159. Healing the Emotionally Unavailable Man

Bridging Connections with Bryan Reeves - A podcast by Bryan Reeves & Tait Arend - Thursdays

Bryan Reeves sits down with renowned relationship coach and therapist Jayson Gaddis. Together they dive into the origins of men’s emotional unavailability, how childhood experiences shape intimacy in adulthood, and what it takes to build secure, nourishing partnerships. From personal stories of shame and armor to raising emotionally present sons, Jayson offers vulnerable insights and hard-won wisdom. This is a must-listen conversation for anyone who wants to understand why men struggle with intimacy—and how they can finally come home to their hearts.⏱️ Highlights00:00 – Welcome 02:45 – Bryan recalls Silvy's admiration for Jayson’s practical relationship wisdom 06:10 – The sixth-grade fight that taught Jayson to hide his sensitivity 12:25 – How shame around crying created lifelong armor 16:20 – From childhood wounds to emotional unavailability in adult relationships 21:15 – Teaching relationship skills to high schoolers: challenges & breakthroughs 26:30 – The greatest gift men can offer: emotional presence 32:40 – Navigating discipline, boundaries, and presence as a father and partner 38:00 – Mission Impossible vs. real life: balancing work, purpose, and family 43:20 – The foundation of intimacy: emotional security and safety 50:15 – Facing blind spots: learning to stop blaming and start owning feelings 56:45 – One foot in, one foot out: the cost of not being fully committed 01:04:00 – Why men chase “greener grass” fantasies—and the painful wake-up call 01:10:25 – Growth-oriented partnership: why your partner won’t stay if you stop growing 01:17:15 – Do men really want sex—or do they want intimacy and belonging? 01:23:00 – The Five Key Takeaways Finale: insight, mentor, resource, investment, practice 01:37:20 – Where to find Jayson Gaddis and his work📬 ContactGuest – Jayson GaddisWebsite: https://relationshipschool.comPodcast: The Smart Couple (available on major platforms)Host – Bryan ReevesWebsite: https://bryanreeves.comInstagram: @bryanreevesinsightMen’s Coaching Program: https://bryanreeves.com/elevate