Overcoming Trauma, Gang Life and Building Self-Respect with AJ McQueen

I sit down with AJ McQueen for a deeply honest conversation about trauma, masculinity, faith, and self-acceptance. AJ shares how violence, heartbreak, and survival shaped his early life, and how learning radical acceptance became the turning point in his growth as a man. We talk about sex, discipline, purpose, boundaries, and why so many men live stuck in survival mode. This is a raw, reflective discussion about becoming grounded, choosing yourself, and learning how to live with integrity. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Introduction and Meeting AJ 01:00 - Heartbreak as a Catalyst for Growth 05:10 - Sex, Addiction, and Masculinity 10:00 - Growing Up Around Violence 16:20 - Defining Manhood and Fatherhood 21:15 - Autonomy, Boundaries, and Self-Respect 28:45 - Saying No and Taking Back Control 35:15 - Trauma, Gifts, and Acceptance 40:30 - Confidence Through Radical Acceptance 48:25 - Survival Mode vs Self-Understanding 53:30 - Enoughness and Self-Worth 01:01:10 - Travel, Perspective, and Expansion 01:06:20 - Faith, Spirituality, and Service 01:12:30 - Closing Reflections and Gratitude *** Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worth Pick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/ Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To Attachment Check out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your Relationship Build brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance.  Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they’re looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify For more, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram