Mark Groves is the founder of Create The Love, and host of the Mark Groves Podcast. Mark is on a mission to bridge the academic and the human, inviting people to explore the good, the bad, the downright ugly, and the beautiful sides of connection. His work empowers people to step into their power, transform the way they relate to themselves and others, and create authentic change in their lives. Mark and I sit down on the coast of Tofino, Canada for a special two-part episode. In part 1, we talk about fatherhood and parenthood.  In this episode, we discuss: Fatherhood as a deeper window to look at where there is still work to be done on oneself. After having a child, what is most important? Old wounds and patterns that tend to arise during parenthood.  How intimacy dynamics tend to shift after having a child. The reasons why an uncomfortable number of couples divorce after the first year of a child’s life. Nurturing your feminine energy as a man.  Accessing discipline and discernment as a father. Upholding the ethical obligation to be successful.  Being purpose-driven as a man. The paradox of choice. The downsides to technology and access to mass communication. Consciously choosing every aspect of your life. Embracing a cultural initiation into manhood. What is toxic masculinity and why does it exist? Valuing mother and father roles in the family. Inflated egos and immaturity. What comes after ego dissolution? The benefits of taking time off work to support your new family. How fathers can support their own health after having a kid. The importance of talking to other men after having a child. The gift of being a parent and the gifts you receive from your child. And a question for Mark: Now that you have a kid, is it worth it? Would you recommend it? Links from this Episode: Part 2 of This Episode (on C0.vid Hysteria) will come out in 2 weeks and links will be updated at that time. Mark’s Website Mark’s Instagram  Mark’s Podcast  Mark on YouTube Conscious Relationship Council - a live 12-week relationship training for men Arka Brotherhood - men's work. Previous episodes with Mark: Evolving Man Podcast - Holding Space with Mark Groves Evolving Man Podcast - To Be A Man with Mark Groves See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.