From Warrior to Elder: Rethinking Mental Health and Aging for Men
Episode 186
June 26, 2025
Jun 26, 2025
In this episode, we’re joined by therapist Ed Collins for a candid conversation about the often-overlooked mental health challenges faced by older men. Together, we explore how traditional masculinity and societal expectations can create barriers to mental wellness and prevent men from seeking the support they need. Ed offers a powerful framework for aging with purpose, encouraging a shift from the role of “warrior” to “tribal elder.” He makes the case for celebrating aging as a time of meaning, growth, and intentional transition. The episode closes with thoughtful reflections on retirement and planning for life’s final chapters—not with fear, but with hope and clarity.
Listen to this episode on your favorite podcast channel:
EPISODE 186 /
June 26, 2025
with Edward Collins, MA, LPC
with Edward Collins, MA, LPC
MEET THE GUEST
Edward Collins, MA, LPC
Ed Collins, LPC
Ed Collins is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Michigan who has been practicing since 2002. He has an MA in Counseling from Eastern Michigan University and a BS in Secondary Education and English Literature and Language.
Ed approaches each person with a holistic view. It is rarely just the presenting issue but a conglomeration of events and attitudes that may create difficulties in their world. He provides authentic, in-person counseling with a focus on client fulfillment and success. Ed strives to establish a trusting relationship to better serve the client. Using many trusted modalities to bring forth the best results for each individual, Ed explores what has brought the client to where they feel they are. Working together, he helps them determine the optimum path to attain their personal goal.
In his spare time, Ed enjoys learning, reading, gardening, travel, and most important, his family.
Related Podcasts
LGBTQ+ | Self-Help & Wellness
Creating a Culture of Belonging at Work
What does it really mean to belong at work? In this episode, we are joined by Jewel Ratcliff, Clinical Director and Central Region DEIB Co-Chair, and Madison Coward-Thibodeaux, National Onboarding Team member and Central Region DEIB Co-Chair to explore how belonging impacts employee engagement, workplace culture, leadership, and overall well-being. They also share practical ways leaders and...
Listen To Episode
June 12, 2026
with Victoria Faynberg, MSW, LMSW
with Victoria Faynberg, MSW, LMSW
Self-Help & Wellness
How Clothing Shapes Confidence and Mood
With excitement building around the latest sequel to The Devil Wears Prada, conversations about fashion are once again taking center stage—but style is about much more than trends and designer labels. In this insightful conversation, Victoria Faynberg explores a surprising yet powerful connection: the link between what we wear and how we feel. Together, they dive into the...
Listen To Episode
Self-Help & Wellness | Sleeping Disorders | Trends and Predictions
The Sauna Boom: Wellness Trend or Helpful Mental Health Tool?
Saunas are having a serious moment — from gyms to backyard builds to endless social media claims promising everything from better sleep to reduced stress. But behind the hype, what’s actually true?LifeStance Health Clinical Directors Aimee McWilliams and Mark McGrosky join us to explore this wellness trend. Together, the group unpacks the growing popularity of saunas and looks at...
Listen To Episode
Feel Better. Think Brighter. Live Deeper.
You’re not alone in figuring it all out. We’re diving into real struggles, surprising breakthroughs, and the small shifts that can change everything. Whether you're stuck in your head or striving for better days, this podcast is your weekly check-in — calm, clear, and truly useful.
