Divine Masculinity: Seven Men Showing Us What It Looks Like
As a mother of a young boy, I’ve thought deeply about the kind of man I hope he will become. In a world where the topic of toxic masculinity often dominates the conversation, it’s become increasingly important to me that I know what Divine Masculinity looks like—and that I publicly and regularly celebrate it. I want my son to grow up understanding that being a man is about more than strength and power; it’s about compassion, integrity, and leading with purpose. Divine Masculinity is a powerful force for good, and it comes to life through the actions and philosophies of remarkable individuals. Here are seven men who exemplify this higher form of masculinity, showing us what it truly means to lead with purpose and heart.
1. Chris Williamson: Redefining Masculinity Through Intellectual Curiosity
Chris Williamson, the host of Modern Wisdom, has become a voice of reason in the realm of personal development and emotional intelligence. His podcast is a treasure trove of insights on philosophy, mental health, and self-improvement, offering listeners a window into how men can engage deeply with their own inner lives. Williamson’s approach to masculinity challenges outdated norms by advocating for introspection and vulnerability as key components of a fulfilled life.
Williamson's work shows us that Divine Masculinity is about embracing intellectual curiosity and emotional depth, proving that strength isn’t just physical but also mental and emotional.
2. Mo Gawdat: Transforming Grief into Joy
Mo Gawdat, the author of Solve for Happy and former Chief Business Officer at Google [X], embodies Divine Masculinity through his profound response to personal tragedy. After losing his son, Gawdat used his grief as a catalyst for spreading happiness and resilience. His mission to help others find joy, even in the face of immense pain, reflects a form of masculinity that is deeply empathetic and emotionally courageous.
Gawdat’s journey illustrates how Divine Masculinity can transform personal suffering into a force for healing and positive impact, showing that embracing vulnerability can lead to profound personal and communal growth.
3. Ross Edgley: Pushing Boundaries with Resilience
Ross Edgley, known for his extraordinary endurance feats, such as swimming around Great Britain, exemplifies Divine Masculinity through his approach to physical and mental challenges. Edgley’s remarkable achievements are not merely about conquering physical limits but about exploring the depths of human potential and resilience. His philosophy combines intense physical training with mental fortitude, showing that true strength is forged from both body and mind.
In a recent interview, Edgley was asked about his seemingly inexhaustible politeness and kindness, even when battling extreme conditions like hypothermia. Despite the immense physical and mental strain, he always says “thank you” to his team members for simple gestures, such as passing him bananas during a swim. When asked how he maintains this demeanor in the depths of struggle, Edgley credited his father’s influence. He explained that his father wouldn’t have cared about his physical achievements; he would have cared about whether Ross remembered to say “thank you.”
Edgley’s story highlights that Divine Masculinity involves not just pushing boundaries but doing so with grace and gratitude, demonstrating that true resilience includes kindness and respect for others, even in the most challenging circumstances.
4. Dan Sherrard-Smith: Leading with Ethical Vision
Dan Sherrard-Smith, Founder & CEO of MyMotherTree.com, the world's first money carbon calculator work, emphasizes the importance of integrating sustainability into business practices and making decisions that benefit the planet and future generations. Sherrard-Smith’s leadership goes beyond personal success to address global challenges, showing how masculine energy can drive positive change.
His dedication to ethical practices and environmental responsibility underscores that Divine Masculinity is about making impactful decisions that align with a greater good.
5. Steve Biddulph: Nurturing Emotional Intelligence in Fatherhood
Steve Biddulph, renowned for his books Raising Boys and The New Manhood, has redefined masculinity through his focus on nurturing and emotional intelligence. His work advocates for a model of masculinity that includes being an empathetic, involved father and mentor. Biddulph’s insights challenge traditional views by emphasizing that strength includes being emotionally available and supportive in family dynamics.
Biddulph’s perspective on fatherhood and masculinity highlights that Divine Masculinity involves fostering emotional connections and guiding others with care and understanding.
6. George Mumford: The Intersection of Mindfulness and Peak Performance
George Mumford, a sports psychologist and author of The Mindful Athlete, represents Divine Masculinity through his focus on mindfulness and mental resilience. Working with elite athletes, Mumford integrates mindfulness practices with peak performance strategies, showing that mental health and emotional awareness are crucial for achieving excellence. His teachings illustrate how true masculinity involves mastering the mind as well as the body.
Mumford’s approach demonstrates that Divine Masculinity is about embracing mindfulness and vulnerability, leading to a more balanced and holistic form of strength.
7. Mr. Jason Wilson: Empowering Emotional Intelligence and Leadership
Mr. Jason Wilson, the founder of the Cave of Adullam Transformational Training Academy and author of Cry Like a Man, is a powerful advocate for emotional intelligence and leadership in men. His work focuses on helping young men navigate their emotions, build resilience, and develop leadership skills. Wilson addresses the often-stifled emotional landscape of masculinity through his programs and writing, promoting a model that embraces emotional openness and growth.
Wilson’s mentoring and personal development efforts highlight that Divine Masculinity involves empowering others to understand and express their emotions, fostering leadership grounded in empathy and self-awareness.
These seven men provide a unique and powerful example of Divine Masculinity. They show us that being a man can mean more than just conforming to outdated stereotypes. It can mean leading purposefully, embracing vulnerability, pushing limits, and positively impacting the world.
Their lives and work challenge us to redefine masculinity in an inspiring and transformative way, demonstrating that true strength lies in integrating intellect, emotional depth, ethical leadership, and personal resilience.
I love this Abi.