Shifting From Debate To Dialogue with Rooken Podesta

"What are you trying to take care of?" – a simple yet powerful question that shifts the way we engage in conversations.

In a world where men are often told to suppress emotions, solve problems alone, and dominate rather than dialog, how do we create space for deeper, more meaningful connections?

Rooken Podesta is the perfect man to explore this question. A facilitator and expert in generative dialog, Rooken helps individuals and organizations transform the way they communicate. His work centers on psychological safety, emotional literacy, and relational intelligence—all crucial for navigating leadership, relationships, and personal growth.

In this episode, we unpack:

• Why men struggle with emotional expression and connection
• The impact of rugged individualism and how it isolates us
• How Ubuntu and the I-Thou relationship can heal divides
• The power of language, nature, and safe dialogic spaces in reshaping how men relate to themselves and others

Now, more than ever, men need to listen, not just react. This episode is a call to step beyond surface-level conversations and into a new way of being, listening, and leading.

Tune in for a conversation that challenges the way we think, speak, and engage with the world.

Follow Rooken Podesta's work:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rookenpodesta/

Substack: https://rooken.substack.com/

website: https://thrivewiththefield.com/

Articles mentioned: 

Building bridges of understanding: embracing the power of the legitimate other, i-thou and positive regard for transformative relationships

From control to connection: The leadership connection we need to thrive together

Hope you are enjoying the conversation so far. 

Remember to take note of things that stand out to you while listening and take a moment to reflect in your own time or discuss this with some friends over some drinks, a meal or relaxing activity of your choice. 
Thank you for tuning into Manned Up Conversations. Please subscribe to help grow the platform, you can also find us on YouTube if you prefer video and don't forget to share your comments, insights or questions.