Show Links

Buy Zach’s Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Zachary-Fenell/author/B006M49S6A

Check Out Zach’s Blog: https://www.zacharyfenell.com/blog/

Connect with Zach on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zacharyfenell/

Email Zach: contact@zacharyfenell.com

In this episode, I sit down with Zachary Fenell, an author, blogger, and endurance athlete who shares his journey of self-acceptance, personal growth, and mental resilience while living with cerebral palsy. Zach opens up about how writing became a therapeutic outlet for him, helping him process emotions, reframe challenges, and embrace his identity. We also discuss the impact of teachers and mentors, the power of words, and how a simple piece of encouragement can shape a life path.

Zach shares his marathon journey—something he once believed was impossible for him. He walks us through the mental and physical hurdles of training for and completing two marathons, emphasizing the importance of competing against yourself instead of comparing yourself to others. He also talks about the importance of staying present, adapting exercises to meet his needs, and using daily affirmations to stay connected with himself.

This conversation dives deep into mental health for men, how we process emotions, and why acknowledging negative feelings is just as important as reframing them. Zach talks about his approach to mental resilience, from intentional reflection to turning physical challenges into personal growth opportunities. Whether you're navigating your own mental health journey, looking for inspiration, or just need a reminder that progress is always possible, this episode is for you.

Please share this episode with anyone you think would be interested in listening to it.

Visit mensmentalhealthseries.com for links to the show page on each of the major podcast directories. From there, you can subscribe and share this pod.

For comments, questions, topic ideas, or possible collaborations, please email daryl@darylperry.com.

Be sure to check out The Daryl Perry Podcast, my daily pod wherever you get your episodes!

darylperrypodcast.com

Please email any questions, thoughts or requests to be on this show to daryl@darylperry.com

In this episode of The Men’s Mental Health Series, Daryl Perry sits down with Sam Chang to explore the complex world of red pill culture. They discuss how people are drawn into these spaces while searching for solutions to their struggles, the role of critical thinking in breaking free, and how fitness can be a tool for personal growth—or manipulation.

The conversation touches on the deeper need for self-awareness, emotional balance, and finding authentic connections in a world that often feels disconnected. Don’t miss this eye-opening discussion.

Follow Sam on Instagram: @coachsamchang.

In this episode of The Men’s Body Image Series, Daryl Perry sits down with Sam Chang to explore what it means to truly accept oneself, especially when the body presents daily challenges. Sam shares his journey with cerebral palsy, the impact of chronic pain from herniated discs, and how his relationship with his body has shifted over time. The two dive deep into the intersections of body image, masculinity, mental health, and the societal pressures to “tough it out.” Join them as they discuss the importance of community, the value of therapy, and the ongoing journey toward self-acceptance.

Follow Sam on Instagram for more insights on mental health and fitness.

https://www.instagram.com/coachsamchang/

Watch this video to see what drive Sam's work:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sN70ydMfeXU

In Episode 10 of Season 2 of The Men's Body Image Series, Daryl Perry sits down again with James (@tacos_gets_fit) for an in-depth conversation on the emotional and mental challenges that come with body transformation. After losing 137 pounds, James discusses his ongoing battle with body dysmorphia, the “fat guy mentality,” and how wearing smaller clothes sometimes still feels uncomfortable. He emphasizes the importance of therapy, sitting in uncomfortable emotions, and the mental work that comes alongside physical changes. This episode is a deep dive into how men perceive themselves after weight loss and the critical role mental health plays in long-term self-acceptance.

Follow James on Instagram at @tacos_gets_fit for more updates on his journey.

In this episode of The Men's Body Image Series, Daryl Perry welcomes Brett (@becomingbrett) for an honest and insightful conversation about body image and the experiences many men face but rarely discuss. Brett shares his personal journey, reflecting on how his body image has evolved over the years, the pressure to meet societal expectations, and how growing up with certain physical challenges influenced his self-perception. Together, Daryl and Brett explore the subtle ways body image affects day-to-day life, from social interactions to personal growth. They also dive into how external judgments can shape internal struggles, and the role fitness plays in redefining one’s self-view.

Join Daryl and Brett as they open up about the reality of body image for men and how embracing vulnerability can lead to healing and self-acceptance.

Follow Brett on Instagram at @becomingbrett.

In this episode of The Men’s Body Image Series, host Daryl Perry welcomes back Eric (@ericg75__) for an in-depth discussion on body image struggles and how they intersect with family dynamics, self-comparison, and consistency. Eric opens up about growing up with a brother who excelled in sports and how that influenced his self-image. He reflects on the internal battles with weight fluctuation and the pressures of "looking the part." They dive into the emotional roller coaster of seeing progress in the mirror, only to be thrown off by an unflattering photo or a plateau on the scale. Eric’s story highlights the mental hurdles that often accompany physical goals, and the importance of finding small victories in the journey. Tune in to hear how these relatable challenges impact many men’s mental health and body image.

Follow Eric on IG:

https://www.instagram.com/ericg75__/

In this episode of The Men’s Body Image Series, host Daryl Perry welcomes back J for another deep conversation on the ongoing journey of body image. J reflects on his transformation over the past four years, navigating the highs and lows of self-perception after significant weight loss. Together, they discuss the emotional roller coaster of feeling confident one day and battling old mental habits the next. J opens up about his struggles with loose skin, societal expectations of the "ideal" male body, and the constant comparison trap that many men fall into. He also shares how mental toughness practices like 75 Hard have helped him maintain a positive mindset, despite the occasional mental setbacks. The episode wraps up with an insightful discussion on the importance of finding what truly fuels your drive and taking responsibility for your own life journey.

Follow J on Instagram: @maddysdaddy_vsg.