Podcast
Emotional Wellness for men
Welcome to Selfed, a unique podcast that delves into the unexplored territory of emotional growth and maturity for men. In a society that often encourages men to be more emotionally expressive and available, we aim to show you what that journey truly looks like. Through real-life experiences, insights, and challenges, we guide men on the path to emotional wellness.
My journey into emotional maturity began through therapy, Yoga Teacher Training, self-help books, and working in spaces typically dominated by women. But what truly transformed my understanding was connecting with other men, hearing their struggles, and having open, honest conversations about the immaturity, avoidance, and ignorance we often face. These discussions were not only eye-opening but also crucial to my own healing and growth.
Selfed is not just a podcast, it's a personal journey that I embarked on during the pandemic. After a pause following my “graduation“ from therapy, I've returned with even greater intention. Whether you're here to listen to the podcast, read our blog, or both, you’ll find a wealth of experiences and resources that I've personally found helpful on my journey of self-discovery and emotional wellness.
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— COURTNEY BRAME, Founder
Selfed 54: Black Men’s Emotional Wellness Symposium
This week on Selfed, we recap the Black Men's Emotional Wellness Symposium, diving into fitness, spirituality, leadership, and vulnerability. From managing health beyond physical appearance to reframing self-care, this episode offers honest reflections and lessons for future gatherings.
SELFED 53: What is Grief in Action
Grief is messy, especially when it lingers for decades. In this episode of Selfed, Courtney Brame unpacks 23 years of unprocessed grief tied to the loss of his grandmother, whose funeral coincided with his 13th birthday. As a Black man, he shares how these emotions intertwine with the protective role his grandmother played in preventing his mother's coerced abortion, and how supporting his girlfriend through her own recent loss brought everything full circle. Listen as Courtney vulnerably navigates what it means to confront grief head-on and turn it into purposeful healing.
These elements should resonate with your audience and connect the themes of grief, healing, and navigating deep emotional layers as a Black man. Let me know if you'd like any adjustments!
SELFED 52: Having Anger
In Selfed 52: Having Anger, I talk about the importance of being present with our emotions, especially anger, and how unprocessed feelings can show up unexpectedly, even impacting intimacy.
Selfed 51: Yoga Therapy is for Black Men Too
In this episode, I explore how yoga therapy can be a powerful tool for Black men, sharing my personal experience with both therapy and yoga therapy training. I break down the psychological inaccessibility of these spaces and my mission to make yoga therapy accessible as a complement to other healing modalities.
SELFED 50: Exploring Vulnerability and Curiosity - My 8 Mile Episode
I’ve been in these spaces that don’t seem made for me—yoga, anime, nonprofits—and I’m tired of hiding who I am just because I don’t see anyone like me there. This episode is me saying, ‘Here I am, take me or leave me.’ Vulnerability has to be part of the conversation, especially for the Black men who feel like they don’t belong in these places. Let’s stop hiding.
Selfed 49: Proving i deserve to be here
Courtney Brame delves into the emotional complexities of his birthday, intertwined with the memory of his grandmother's funeral and the untold story of his birth. This episode of SELFED explores the profound impact these events have had on his journey of self-worth and purpose.
Selfed 48: I’m My Own Opps
Courtney Brame explores the duality of humility and arrogance, revealing how his fears have held him back from his true potential. This episode of SELFED uncovers the struggle of being transparent with oneself and the importance of intentionality in shaping a fulfilling life.
Selfed 47: Mr. Lonely and the decompression chamber
In this episode of Selfed, Courtney Brame candidly discusses the struggles of loneliness, the temptations it brings, and how sitting with those feelings can ultimately lead to personal clarity and emotional release. Join him as he turns his podcast into a space for healthy decompression and mental wellness.
Selfed 46: The Importance of mens’ intimacy
In this episode of Selfed, we delve into the often-overlooked importance of men’s intimacy. Reflecting on personal experiences and insights from the Game Kings Seminar, Courtney Brame discusses how men's intimacy can lead to healthier expressions of emotions and the creation of safe spaces for men to connect and decompress.
Selfed 45: Apathy is the symptom of hatred
In this episode of Selfed, we explore how apathy manifests as a symptom of hatred, particularly in the context of modern masculinity and gender relations. By challenging societal norms, this episode offers a counter-culture perspective on the impact of sex positivity, societal indifference, and the emotional struggles men face today.
Selfed 44: Keep the change
After losing some recent friendships, I’ve realized that sometimes letting go is the best way to make room for relationships that truly belong in your life. Don’t see the loss as a cost; see it as an investment in your future connections. Let them keep the change—you’ll recover.
Selfed 42: Homecoming
In this episode of Selfed, I reflect on my recent travels and experiences throughout March. From moving back home and attending conferences to witnessing rhinos in Africa and reassessing my love life, it was a month of growth and maturity.
Selfed 41 - That’s My story
On this episode of Selfed, I share my struggle with trying to fit into a narrative that isn’t truly mine. Despite being featured in the New York Times, I found myself more disappointed than proud. This episode is about embracing my story and the realization that people want to meet our needs—if we let them.
Selfed 40 - The Essence of connection is intentionality
In this episode, I dive into the idea that intentionality is the core of meaningful connections. Reflecting on death and relationship transitions, I realize that relationships without my active initiation often don’t last. It’s the masculine energy of pursuit that drives relationships forward, and my passive approach has cost me in both love and career.
Selfed 39 - self rejection is many mini acceptances
In this episode, I confront the discomfort of self-rejection and explore how many small acceptances of less-than-ideal situations build up over time. I share personal experiences where my low expectations led to feeling disappointed and deprioritized, and how these mini requests train us to believe we deserve less.
Selfed 38 - Oh Yeah your pleasure matters
In this episode of Selfed, Lauren and I explore the importance of sexual health communication, embodiment, and empowerment. As a sex coach, Lauren shares her journey toward self-identity through her sexuality and how she helps clients find empowerment through practices like pole dancing. We also dive into the challenges of dating and the significance of vulnerability in relationships.
Selfed 37 - SEASON TWO BABY!!!
Welcome to Season 2 of Selfed! We kick off this season with a fresh perspective on self-help, breaking down buzzwords like "high value man" and "doing the work" while sharing relatable experiences that challenge our identity. Join me and my friend Will as we dive into the complexities of finding ourselves in a world full of conflicting advice.
Selfed 35 - Selfed is a reintegration of identity
In Selfed 35, I explore the intersection of masculinity and vulnerability, reflecting on how we can integrate these seemingly opposing forces into our identities. Through this lens, I examine my dual identities as Courtney Brame and Honmychest, highlighting the power of merging masculine and feminine energies to achieve wholeness. This episode was inspired by the reactions to the Roe v. Wade overturn and the contrasting responses from different energies
Selfed 34 - Let Your Standards Set Your Reality
When our reality dictates our standards, settling often follows. In this episode of Selfed, I reflect on the importance of setting standards that align with who you truly are, rather than letting circumstances define them. I’m grateful for friends who help me stay true to myself, even as I navigate new challenges in Portland, OR. The real strength lies not just in resilience, but in the practice of letting go of heavy, negative emotions.