Emotionally Fit with Dr. Emily Anhalt

TABOO TUESDAY: Men's Mental Health with Co-Founder of Madhappy, Mason Spector

November 1, 2022

Love and sex addiction aren’t issues people talk about regularly. But this week’s guest Mason Spector, co-founder of the clothing brand Madhappy, doesn’t shy away from sharing his struggles with Dr. Emily in this Taboo Tuesday episode. From infidelity and seeking self-worth through the attention of others to rehab and starting a clothing brand rooted in mental health positivity, Mason shares it all. Tune in now to hear why he says all men need to get honest with themselves and their loved ones about their own struggles with mental health.

Episode Summary

Staying emotionally fit takes work and repetition. That's why the Emotionally Fit podcast with psychologist Dr. Emily Anhalt delivers short, actionable Emotional Push-Ups every Tuesday and Thursday to help you build a better practice of mental health, and surprising, funny, and shocking conversations on Taboo Tuesdays - because the things we’re most hesitant to talk about are also the most normal. Join us to kickstart your emotional fitness. Let's flex those feels and do some reps together!

Episode Resources:

• Follow Mason Spector on Instagram
• Follow @madhappy and @localoptimist on Instagram
• Check out the Madhappy clothing brand
• Listen to the Madhappy Podcast

Key Topics Discussed:

1. Battling mental health and creating Madhappy
   • “It's inevitable that we’ll have really sad days and go through hard times..."
2. The stigma around men's mental health
   • “Having that ability to be vulnerable is actually such a sign of courage..."
3. Mason’s love and sex addiction
   • “I had really just built a world where I was just getting all of my self-worth from other people..."
4. Advice for men wanting to confront their mental health struggles
   • “It's a normal part of the human experience..."

Transcript Excerpts:

• Mason: "I was just getting all of my self-worth from other people…"
• Dr. Emily: "Welcome to Taboo Tuesday on the Emotionally Fit podcast! I'm Dr. Emily Anhalt and I've always loved talking about taboo subjects..."
• Mason: "It’s inevitable that we’ll have really sad days and go through hard times... I'm someone who has struggled with a lot of mental health issues my entire life..."

Self-Care Non-Negotiables:

• Mason shares his need for outdoor activities, sports, and watching movies to maintain his mental health.
• Dr. Emily mentions therapy, community, and sufficient sleep as her essentials.

Advice for Men:

• "It’s better to just be realistic with yourself and be practical… if you have anyone in your life who isn’t willing to listen... reevaluate those relationships."

Conclusion:

Thank you for listening to Emotionally Fit, hosted by Dr. Emily Anhalt. New Taboo Tuesdays drop every other week. Please follow, rate, review, and share the show wherever you listen to podcasts.