Welcome to 2 Grown Men Having A Conversation— the podcast where personal accountability meets faith, self-worth fuels ambition, and the entrepreneurial spirit drives progress. Through candid conversations and raw transparency, our hosts bring you real talk from an educated urban lens, inspiring the next wave of leaders, creators, and changemakers in the African-American community.
Each episode, we tackle the mindset shifts, business strategies, and cultural empowerment needed to level up in every area of life. Whether you're building your brand, strengthening your faith, or striving for generational success, Rise & Elevate is here to push you forward.
No fluff. No excuses. Just knowledge, faith, and the power to rise.
Tap in. It’s time to elevate. 🚀✨
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Growth Is Painful | An Uncomfortable Truth About Comparisons | #2GMHC | Ep 34
Episode 34
Thursday, April 23, 2026 • Duration 49:05
Growth vs. Comparison: Preparing, Evolving, and Staying Present | 2 Grown Men Having A Conversation
In this episode of “2 Grown Men Having A Conversation,” Joe T and D Johns talk about evolving through real growth instead of chasing money, status, or other people’s “goalposts.” They discuss how comparison and ego can make growth feel painful, why “ready” is just a feeling while preparation is the real foundation, and how focusing too far ahead can make you miss the present. Joe T reflects on post-incarceration pressure to “catch up,” the importance of saying no and not enabling unhealthy patterns, and how isolation can be dangerous without accountability. They also explore removing the desire behind harmful habits, being honest about inner thoughts, learning from wise counsel, and collaborating creatively while telling authentic stories. Subscribe to the channel, and comment which part of the conversation hit you the most.
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The Three Foundational Pillars of the DSP Community
1. Reveal trauma
2. Heal from trauma
3. Help through telling stories of it all
“Better Man. Better Father.”
The Dear Son, Network ®
Cutting Through On Social Media | YouTube Is A Network | #2GMHC | Ep 33
Episode 33
Friday, April 10, 2026 • Duration 38:09
Transfer Traffic to YouTube: Consistency, Reposting, and Why YouTube Pays More
Joe T and D Johns discuss social media growth and monetization, emphasizing that consistency is key and that creators must intentionally transfer traffic from Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook to YouTube. They describe YouTube as the hardest platform to build but the most valuable because it pays best, keeps older videos circulating in the algorithm, and makes creators feel like “household names,” unlike Facebook where earnings reset and older posts stop making money. They debate cross-posting between Instagram and Facebook, suggest “dead” accounts may need new pages, and stress keeping a product ready and plugging it often. They share tactics like reposting content, changing titles to revive clips, deleting and reposting underperforming posts, and staying authentic rather than manufacturing drama, while building community over vanity metrics.
00:00 Hooking Stories to YouTube
00:46 Show Intro and Consistency
01:14 Life Updates and Momentum
02:00 Brand Shoutout Listen More
03:42 Cross Platform Traffic Strategy
05:35 Facebook and Algorithm Realities
07:19 Reviving Dead Pages
09:40 Plug Your Product Often
12:05 Reposting and Deleting Tactics
15:38 YouTube Pays and Lasts
17:57 Stop Proving People Wrong
18:51 Adapting to UGC Style
19:19 Green Screen Debate
20:11 Notoriety Versus Money
21:44 Building Real Community
23:53 Podcasters And Traffic Loops
I'm Ready | Why Men Should be Certain About Marriage | #2GMHC | Ep 32
Episode 32
Friday, April 3, 2026 • Duration 45:15
The Dear Son Network creates honest conversations about fatherhood, masculinity, and the life lessons many men never hear growing up.
2 Grown Men Having A Conversation: Family Moments, Healing After Prison & Being 1000% Sure About Marriage
In this episode of “2 Grown Men Having A Conversation,” the hosts reflect on a refreshing weekend centered on family, growth, and relationships. Joe T shares how serving 10 years in prison reshaped his ability to value present moments, describing emotional highlights from a bridal shower and seeing his mother, sister, daughter, and fiancée Ebony bond in ways he hadn’t witnessed since coming home nearly 10 years ago. They discuss how communication history affects how kids approach parents, fears about blending family dynamics, and the importance of anchoring moments that help couples navigate future challenges. He reaffirms he knew early he would marry Eboni and says the weekend made him even more confident about their future and continued growth together. They also promote a new free site, “Podcast Circuit,” designed to connect podcast hosts with potential guests by category.
00:00 Prison Gratitude Mindset
00:51 Show Intro And Check In
01:47 Letting Your Teen Drive
02:33 Kids Hesitation And Communication
04:05 Ask Anyway In Life
05:01 Weekend Anchoring Moments
10:29 Family Bonding After Time Lost
15:40 Blending Families And In Laws
19:26 Certain About Marriage
20:52 Growing Together Over Time
22:47 Wedding Day Emotions
24:13 Partners Reflect Choices
24:37 Accountability In Love
My Past Deserves A Pass | We Gotta Do Better | #2GMHC | Ep 31
Episode 31
Wednesday, April 1, 2026 • Duration 41:28
2 Grown Men Talk Internet Culture, Grace, and Putting Each Other On
In this episode of “2 Grown Men Having A Conversation,” Joe T and D Johns discuss how the internet amplifies conflict, rumor, and commentary, making it harder for people to move on from past battles and mistakes. They react to a recent Jay interview and his point that rap beef used to be contained but now can spill into attempts to destroy lives, families, and reputations. They talk about community accountability, the danger of disposable soundbite culture, and how content creation can turn malice into a persona that becomes hard to escape. They explore judging people based on when you met them, referencing the Diddy conversation and similar comments about other figures, and emphasize growth and grace over jealousy. They close by encouraging Black creators to collaborate and announce a “DW Black Owned Businesses” show coming in April.
00:00 Why Tear Us Down
00:36 Grace Based On Experience
01:05 Two Grown Men Intro
02:09 Learning The Interview Process
03:16 You Cant Win Comments
04:06 Jay Interview Internet Reaction
07:32 Battles Changed By Internet
09:28 Fan Wars Turn Dangerous
12:49 Disposable Culture And Feeds
14:35 Candace Owens Media Machine
16:18 Joy Or Jealousy Mindset
18:30 Find The Why Behind Feelings
19:41 Jealousy Hurts Everyone
20:32 Content With Hidden Malice
21:44 Raised On Social Media
23:23 Chasing What Works
24:02 Real Impact Over Money
Why Men Minimize Their Feelings | I'm Fine. Just Let Me Be. | #2GMHC | Ep 30
Episode 30
Friday, March 13, 2026 • Duration 47:24
2 Grown Men Talk: Men, Pain, and Learning to Celebrate Progress
Joe T and D Johns check in on their moods and faith, including a devotion practice centered on “being anxious about nothing.” D Johns details a much needed car worship moment after taking his mother-in-law to the airport. The conversation shifts to what pain men keep to themselves, prompted by the show “Blue Therapy,” and explores how men often default to problem-solving, minimizing feelings, and moving on quickly rather than expressing emotions. They discuss the importance of choosing a partner who can handle honesty without “fixing,” avoiding overstimulation, and not creating self-imposed pressure. They also talk about resentment, PDA and assumptions, routines becoming manipulative, and the need to celebrate relationship milestones (like improved communication) through intentional habits such as date nights, while continuing personal growth and gratitude.
00:00 Cold Open and Setup
00:11 Show Intro and Check In
01:25 Devotion and Worship Ride
02:56 Blue Therapy Sparks a Question
04:10 Men and Emotional Expression
08:07 Letting Your Partner In
09:49 Carrying the Load and Misread Signals
12:04 Self Made Pressure and Lifestyle
20:42 Why Peace Beats Pain Talk
22:17 Tools for Handling Pain
23:50 Stop Chasing Lessons
25:00 Celebrate The Wins
26:29 Plan Monthly Celebrations
27:16 Date Nights Got Lost
29:12 Wedding Is Just A Moment
29:56 Ego And Vulnerability
Why Every Man Should Audit His Circle | 2 Grown Men Having A Conversation | Ep 29
Episode 29
Tuesday, March 3, 2026 • Duration 37:01
The Dear Son, Network creates honest conversations about fatherhood, masculinity, and the life lessons many men never hear growing up.
Joe T and D Johns talk about summertime energy and personal growth, focusing on emotional availability, letting go of ego, and recognizing real progress in relationships and business. They recap the DSN Live event, including pre-show anxiety, learning to control what they can, resolving a venue issue calmly, and how the night felt like true community through strong audience engagement and feedback from new supporters. They discuss accepting praise, the nerves of trying new things, trusting partners with your vision, and the value of being surrounded by people in purpose who share knowledge rather than gatekeep. They also touch on doing live shows in their hometowns, learning to coexist with other alpha personalities, setting bigger financial goals—specifically making a million this year—and prioritizing memorable experiences in marriage and family life.
00:00 Summer Check In
00:32 Emotional Growth
02:12 Family Shifts
03:59 DSN Live Anxiety
06:11 Community Feedback
07:17 Accepting Praise
08:48 New Thing Nerves
11:12 Partnership Trust
12:48 Handling Venue Issues
14:37 Future Live Shows
16:28 Two Grown Men Live
17:44 Show Highlights
18:37 Purposeful Circles
19:22 Money Talks for Kids
20:18 Coexisting with Alphas
22:05 Unscripted Podcast Growth
24:17 Going Home to Perform
Don't Let Up | Validation, Quitting, and God’s Will | Ep 28 | 2 Grown Men Having A Conversation
Episode 28
Friday, February 20, 2026 • Duration 45:42
2 Grown Men Talk Validation, Quitting, and God’s Will (Plus Fatherhood Lessons)
Hosts Joe T and D Johns open the episode reflecting on feeling optimistic while also navigating recent slumps and the challenges of staying consistent with their platform. They discuss D Johns' daughter joining a cheer clinic and his concerns about how to encourage her if she faces disappointment, which leads into a deeper conversation about quitting, fear, and preparing the right “keep going” speech as a father. The two explore the habit of doing the “easy thing,” letting themselves off the hook, and how validation from others can stop growth—using examples like drawing, basketball, and creating content when guests cancel. They talk about comparing work in a healthy way as a benchmark, wrestling with pride, and the drive to prove to themselves they can do difficult things, while also reflecting on backgrounds where bigger possibilities didn’t feel accessible. The conversation shifts to instilling belief in children that they can do anything, balancing ambition with humility, and not settling for “good enough.” They also wrestle with interpreting God’s will, avoiding a formulaic faith, and separating identity from results while still being honest about desires—such as building a platform that sustains family, creating financial security, and owning property like a family compound. They emphasize patience, character change, using practical tools and resources, learning to ask for help, and not undervaluing routine skills. The episode closes with a charge referencing 2 Timothy 1:6, encouraging listeners to study the original meaning of “power,” “love,” “sound mind,” and “fear,” and ends with a reflective spoken piece on humility, accountability, pride, and consequences.
00:00 Welcome Back: Windy City Vibes & Checking In
00:18 Optimism After a Slump: Building Together & Turning a Leaf
00:54 Dad Talk: Daughter’s Cheer Clinic, Tryouts & Handling Disappointment
02:43 Filling the Gaps: When Guests Cancel and You Default to the “Easy Thing”
06:12 Validation vs Full Potential: The ‘Good Enough’ Trap
Unpacking The Pain: Marriage, Purpose, Secret Struggles | Ep 27 | 2 Grown Men Having A Conversation
Episode 27
Friday, February 13, 2026 • Duration 50:44
The pressure of getting married is revealing a struggle I've tried to hide. In this raw conversation, we confront the secret anxieties and personal strongholds that surface before saying 'I do.'
📺 ABOUT THIS VIDEO
In this episode of 2 Grown Men Having a Conversation, Joe T and D Johns dive into the raw, unspoken realities of men's mental health during major life changes. As Joe prepares for his wedding, he opens up about the overwhelming anxiety, the feeling of being robbed of family moments, and the financial pressures that come with it. The discussion takes a vulnerable turn as they explore how these stressors can reignite old battles and personal strongholds, specifically addressing pornography as a coping mechanism. This honest dialogue is for anyone navigating pre-wedding anxiety, dealing with hidden vices, or seeking to understand the power of accountability in relationships. Viewers will gain insight into identifying escape mechanisms, the importance of vulnerable communication with a partner, and the path to breaking generational cycles through discipline and faith.
🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS
• Anxiety from major life events, like a wedding, can often trigger old vices and strongholds as familiar but unhealthy coping mechanisms.
• Using success, work, or other distractions to avoid emotional pain is a temporary fix that prevents true healing and personal growth.
• Vulnerable communication and accountability, both with your partner and in safe friendships, are essential tools for overcoming personal battles and strengthening your relationships.
• True discipline involves confronting all areas of weakness, not just highlighting strengths, to live an integrated and accountable life.
• Intentionally replacing destructive habits with positive, connecting actions (like exercise or quality time with a partner) is a practical strategy to fight mental and spiritual attacks.
I'm Proud of You Bro | Inspire Your Friends | Ep 26 | 2 Grown Men Having A Conversation | #2GMHC
Episode 26
Friday, January 23, 2026 • Duration 48:16
Meaningful Conversations: Life, Inspiration, and Success with Joe T and D Johns
Join Joe T and D Johns in an engaging conversation as they talk about personal growth, family support, and defining success. They reflect on recent events, the impact of inspiration on their lives and the importance of perseverance. The discussion delves into navigating uncertainties, emotional regulation, and the power of mutual support. Don't miss this candid discussion that highlights the significance of staying true to oneself and the transformative power of brotherhood. Subscribe to our channel and tell us in the comments which part you enjoyed the most!
00:00 Introduction and Greetings
00:20 Reflecting on the Live Event
00:42 Inspiration and Family Support
05:32 The Importance of Execution
08:53 Balancing Personal and Professional Life
20:52 Defining Success and Personal Growth
23:00 Reflecting on Personal Growth and Family Support
23:27 The Joy of Overcoming Challenges
23:44 Navigating Relationship Dynamics
24:45 Trusting in a Higher Power
25:46 Facing the Fear of Success
26:24 The Power of Self-Reflection
30:03 The Importance of Mutual Support in Marriage
31:37 Embracing Collaboration and Letting Go of Control
34:30 The Role of Faith in Overcoming Doubts
38:08 Accepting Help and Breaking the Cycle
43:44 Encouragement and Moving Forward
Anger Almost Cost Me Everything | Ep 25 | 2 Grown Men Having A Conversation | #2GMHC
Episode 25
Wednesday, January 14, 2026 • Duration 56:18
Confronting Anger, Mental Health, and Personal Growth
In this episode of '2 Grown Men Having a Conversation,' hosts Joe T and D Johns delve into an open and honest discussion about their recent emotional experiences. From confronting buried anger to the importance of therapy and mental health, they share insights on personal growth and overcoming challenges in life. Through candid dialogue, they touch upon the significance of being present and emotionally available for their families, as well as the impact of content creation on their lives. The episode also highlights the value of laughter and staying grounded through life's ups and downs. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation that reminds us of the importance of self-awareness and continuous improvement in our daily lives.
00:00 Introduction and Setting the Tone
00:31 Discussing Anger and Emotional Triggers
03:26 Therapy and Coping Mechanisms
13:11 Music and Its Impact
14:39 Comedy and Influences
23:22 Podcasting Journey and Business Insights
27:53 The Importance of Consistency and Perfect Practice
28:37 Evergreen Content vs. Clickbait
29:39 The Journey of Podcasting
30:35 The Evolution of Podcast Episodes
31:27 Challenges and Realizations in Podcasting
33:42 Personal Growth and Parenting Reflections
37:01 Navigating Emotional Regulation and Communication
44:10 The Impact of Content Creation on Personal Life
55:28 Final Thoughts and Reflections
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