Order of Man

In this episode of Friday Field Notes , Ryan Michler explores what it means to be a comprehensive man, introducing a framework of head, heart, and hands—logic, empathy, and action. Reflecting on his own tendencies and biases, Ryan challenges listeners to identify their strengths and weaknesses across these dimensions. Through personal anecdotes, including a friend's loss and a poignant Iron Counci...

In this "Ask Me Anything" episode, Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen dive into a viral morning routine video before tackling listener questions. From the power of comparison and faith in men's ministries to essentialism in daily tasks and building friendships, they offer practical insights. Ryan shares his half-marathon experience, while Kipp celebrates his son's jujitsu win. Expect raw, actionable a...

My guest today, Scott Payne, spent more than two decades working with some of the most notorious biker gangs, illegal drug operations, and neo-Nazis. And, it would be hard to even imagine some of the things he's seen and experienced in his decades-long career as an FBI Special Agent. Today, Scott and I talk about what it takes to be a successful undercover agent, the lines that get blurred when wo...

In this episode of Friday Field Notes , Ryan Michler explores the provocative idea of "making yourself a more dangerous man." Far from advocating volatility, Michler redefines danger as effectiveness—knowing your goals, communicating with precision, and embodying conviction. Through personal anecdotes and actionable insights, he challenges men to reject wishy-washiness, embrace deliberate presenta...

In this AMA episode, Shawn and Kipp tackle thought-provoking questions from listeners on personal growth, leadership, and mindset. They discuss teaching kids about success without overwhelming pressure, the role of humor in strong leadership, and the power of service. They also address workplace challenges, helping introverts engage, and balancing social life with family responsibilities. Tune in...

We're all somewhat familiar with our three-letter agencies but rarely, if ever, do we consider what some of the most intelligent people on the planet can teach us about communication, influence, and deception. But my guest is keenly aware of all three and how to implement powerful strategies to build trust, develop credibility, and get people to do what you want. His name is Jeffrey Sanow and he s...

In this episode of Friday Field Notes, Ryan Michler explores the vital role brotherhood plays in men's lives. Drawing from personal struggles like divorce and alcohol abuse, he highlights five key benefits—belonging, usefulness, insight, support, and accountability—and warns of the isolation plaguing modern men. Ryan emphasizes how authentic male connections combat loneliness and foster growth, sh...

In this episode of the Ask Me Anything series, Ryan and Kipp discuss the importance of consistency, overcoming personal struggles, and maintaining balance in life. They answer viewer questions on topics such as handling grief, setting boundaries with family, staying disciplined during busy seasons, and dealing with an unruly dog. They also share insights on how small, consistent actions lead to la...

Out of the millions of men I've worked with over the last 10 years, I've heard everything from a deep disdain and animosity towards God and Jesus to a rich and abiding love for His word. For me, I fall somewhere in the middle as I wrestle with my own relationship with Him and towards my faith and spirituality. And, that's the reason I really wanted to talk with a huge influence in my life, John El...

In this episode of Friday Field Notes , Ryan Michler explores a powerful metaphor for masculinity. Drawing from nature, he contrasts the virtuous, leadership-driven traits of lions with the deceptive, self-serving behaviors of hyenas. Through five key distinctions—leading vs. following, earning vs. taking, brotherhood vs. matriarchy, fearlessness vs. deceit, and protection vs. predation—Ryan chall...

In this Ask Me Anything episode, Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen tackle pressing listener questions on parenting, leadership, and self-improvement. They discuss whether staying together for the kids is truly the best choice, how men often overcomplicate simple solutions, and why discounting others' success is a losing mindset. Ryan also shares insights on leading former peers, navigating the role o...

It's been said that alcohol is the only drug that, if you don't take it, people think something is wrong with you. And, I know firsthand what it's like for alcohol use and abuse to take root in your life. My guest today, James Swanwick makes the case that there is nothing good that comes from drinking alcohol – even in moderation and on occasion. Today, we talk about how quickly it can compromise...

In this episode of Friday Field Notes , Ryan Michler discusses why every man must learn to advocate for himself. He explains how setting boundaries, communicating needs, and standing firm in convictions are essential for personal and professional success. Ryan challenges the belief that self-advocacy is selfish and presents compelling research on how men who stand up for themselves experience grea...

In this week's Ask Me Anything episode, Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen tackle pressing questions from listeners on self-improvement, purpose, and resilience. They discuss the importance of discipline, finding passion, and navigating major life transitions like retirement. They also explore the impact of mindset on success, the dangers of victim mentality, and how small decisions can lead to lastin...

The way you tap into the matter that represents the 6" between you ears matters. The fact is, all of us have the same amount of time in the day. Sure, some people are born more intelligent, wealthy, or connected than others. But can you level the playing field? That's the only question that matters. My guest today, John Assaraf, believes that you can. He's made it his life's mission to show you ho...

In this episode of Friday Field Notes , Ryan Michler explores the concept of Command Presence —the ability to lead with confidence, clarity, and composure. He breaks down the four essential pillars of command presence: Clarity, Character, Competence, and Composure . Through personal stories and real-world examples, Ryan explains why every man should cultivate this leadership trait to positively in...

In this episode of Order of Man, Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen tackle another round of Ask Me Anything, answering pressing questions from the Iron Council. They discuss the importance of letting go of past regrets, dealing with grief, navigating difficult conversations, and taking ownership of life's decisions. Ryan also shares insights on leadership, personal responsibility, and the value of emb...

It's likely that all of you know my guest today but may not immediately recognize his name. He is Patrick Renna but you may know him his most well-known movie roll, Hamilton Porter from The Sandlot. But Patrick is so much more than the young kid we saw on the movie screen over 30 years ago. Today, Patrick and I talk about struggles people we put on pedestals face, pivoting in life but doing it in...

In this episode of Friday Field Notes , Ryan Michler discusses the growing insecurity among men and how it affects their lives, relationships, and success. He shares five actionable strategies to build confidence, financial freedom, physical fitness, and self-discipline. Ryan challenges listeners to take control of their lives by eliminating negative influences, dressing with intention, and becomi...

In this Ask Me Anything episode, Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen tackle insightful questions from listeners, covering topics like overcoming the halo effect, balancing empathy with leadership, preparing for AI-driven job disruptions, and raising daughters with intention. They also discuss how to address concerns about a spouse's well-being, the importance of personal integrity, and why many men str...

Choose a metric regarding the health, wealth, and fulfillment of men and it's easy to see that men are either falling drastically behind our female counterparts or, at a minimum, on a downward spiral. Don't get me wrong, I don't think it's a contest between the sexes (That would suggest that it's a zero-sum game. It's not). But it's a glimpse into modern man's gradual decline in his ability to pro...

In this episode of Friday Field Notes, Ryan Michler challenges men to simplify their lives by focusing on what truly matters. He breaks down five key areas—physical possessions, technology, environment, relationships, and work—where men can cut out the unnecessary and become more effective. By doing less but doing it better, men can increase their value, find deeper satisfaction, and lead more ful...

In this AMA episode, Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen tackle hard-hitting questions from listeners on leadership, relationships, career growth, and personal development. They discuss overcoming fear, building strong teams, saving for the future while enjoying the present, and stepping up as a leader.  Ryan also shares insights on assertiveness and taking responsibility, while Kipp breaks down the mi...

You may not immediately recognize the names, Lee and Andrew Child, but I bet you know the name, Jack Reacher. Lee is the creator of Jack Reacher and Andrew is now the man who will carry on the legacy of the man who all of us want to be like. Today, I am joined by the iconic and legendary duo and authors of the Jack Reacher series. We talk about so much including the nature of men, the power of goo...

In this episode of Friday Field Notes, Ryan Michler explores the crucial role men play in shaping the next generation. He discusses the consequences of fatherlessness, the importance of mentorship, and the responsibility of men to lead by example. Ryan shares personal experiences and actionable steps to ensure boys grow into strong, virtuous men.  He emphasizes leading from the front, getting invo...