MenLiving Guides:
1-on-1 Coaching
Daughters
Request a MenLiving guide to help you on your personal or professional development journey. MenLiving guides are leaders within MenLiving, as well as trained and experienced life & leadership coaches. From their own journey, thy seek to impart their learnings to others committed to reaching their full potential. Contact our coaches directly below or scroll further down to learn more.
Erik Treese
Frank Naugo
Todd Adams
Shaun Emerson
Erik Treese
Heart-centered, mission-driven! Dad of 4 Daughters and Initiator of Men. My mission is to create a safe and healthy world by leading with consciousness, with vulnerability, and with grit. I have decades of experience helping men and women from diverse backgrounds and experiences do their personal growth and addiction recovery work.
MenLiving I am a long time MenLiving member and I also have the honor of serving on the Board of the Directors. For the past 2 years I have co-lead our annual MenLiving Men’s Retreat and occasionally lead the Monthly MenLiving Meetings. The connections with men in MenLiving are some of the most important relationships in my life!
Family For 15 years I have had the honor to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with an incredible woman and family physician on Chicago’s west side. We parent 4 amazing daughters age 3-13. They are by far my greatest teachers. Thanks to them I am in touch with my inner feminine. My role as their father has been to love, serve, teach, listen and hold space, and support them to live empowered lives as their inspired selves!
Men’s Work and Leadership Development I have over 20 years of leadership experience with the ManKind Project, an international men’s organization that fosters emotional literacy and personal missions for men. As a certified Co-Leader, I have led over 50 of the hallmark MKP offerings, The New Warrior Training Adventure, all over North America. As a Certified Leader-Trainer, I am also responsible for teaching and mentoring the next generation of MKP leaders.
Diversity and Inclusion I was fortunate to grow up in Hyde Park on Chicago’s south side and serve in the US Army, and as a result inter-cultural competency coaching is a strength of my leadership. I have mentored and facilitated many tough conversations on many multi-cultural topics, including workshops on Diversity and Inclusion, Homophobia and Sexism, Racism and Ableism, Power, Privilege and Difference. for men’s groups, and many public and private organizations and businesses. I recently earned in a Certificate in Diversity and Inclusion from Cornell University.
Erik Treese – Leadership and Life Coach
US Army I served 4 years as a 101st Airborne paratrooper during Operation Desert Shield and Storm. Being a solider taught me the importance of physical and mental toughness, duty, mission, clear, and direct leadership, service, accountability, commitment, and teamwork. My military career was cut short due in large part due to alcohol and PTSD. While enlisted I was awarded a Combat Infantryman Badge, the Army Commendation Medal, a Humanitarian Service Ribbon, and a Liberation of Kuwait Ribbon.
Education Upon completion of my active duty enlistment I earned an Associates in Liberal Arts from the City Colleges of Chicago. From there I went on to graduate cum Laude from Northwestern University with a degree in Communications. I am few classes short of a master’s degree in Education from Northeastern Illinois University, and in April 2020 I completed a Certificate in Diversity and Inclusion from Cornell University.
Business Consulting I got a taste of corporate America dot-com boom during Y2K. I was a consultant with Diamond Technology Partners, a premier global management consulting firm based out of Chicago. I worked on a variety of large-scale technology projects with Enron, Blockbuster, and the Deluxe Checks Corporation. Currently I work with a medium size nationwide real estate construction and development company, a smaller sized foreclosure law firm based in Chicago, and a newly opened chiropractic practice.
Recovery Work My shadow mission is to create a world without broken homes and wounded children. My own addiction had a rough bottom that brought me to my knees and had me homeless on the streets of LA and Chicago. With over 20 years of experience in addiction recovery, I learned a lot about suffering and trauma, perseverance, failure and success, growth and healing, and spirituality. With a dozen years sober today, I truly live life one day at a time, I am active in several 12-Step programs, carry a message of hope, and bring the principles of recovery into my coaching practice.
Email:erik@tribemensgroup.org
Phone:773-936-3745
Frank Naugo
My own personal development story began when a dear friend lent me a book on yoga. That book opened my eyes to a whole new perspective and world of possibilities. Since then, I’ve been embarking on a journey of self-discovery and exploration of mind, body and spirit.
I started my first men’s group in 2008 during a particularly challenging period of life…the dissolution of my first marriage. This was my awakening to the power and value of having a circle of support…hence, the 1st iteration of MenLiving was born. I’ve been facilitating support, connection and purpose for men through retreats, one-on-one’s and group meetings ever since.
My coaching sessions are unique in that they incorporate the elements of Air (breathwork) and Earth (being in nature and grounding).
While each session is customized to align with the individual’s preferences and abilities, my clients are open to and can expect an integrated body and mind experience. My sincere belief is that many of our limitations and imbalances can be positively impacted by the immersion into these proven and powerful channels.
I’m experienced in working with all men’s topics, particularly parents of young children, divorcees, and those interested in cultivating a practice of “presence” and self-compassion.
Biography
Frank founded his first men’s group in 2009 after the realization that traditional means of supporting, challenging and connecting men weren’t readily available. In 2012, with current co-founder Todd Adams, MenLiving evolved into what it is today. He has been leading and learning from the men’s group experience ever since. Frank is also a member of The ManKind Project and staff member of the New Warrior Training Adventure. He’s been organizing and leading both co-ed and men’s weekend retreats since 2011. Part of his vision for MenLiving is to one day bring some of the self-awareness and emotional intelligence tools he teaches now to a younger generation of men.
Email:frank@menliving.org
Phone:312-925-9935
Todd Adams
I work with men that are looking for lasting transformation. I will join you in this playground of exploration in becoming the best version of yourself. We will do this by focusing on self-awareness, acceptance, and asking challenging questions regarding your willingness to make enduring changes in your life. (There is a huge difference between wanting change and be willing to change.) We will spend a minimal amount of time on the content (the issue itself) and much more time on the context (how you are being with this issue). Together we will investigate how you got here, where you are presently and where you want to go. Some of my favorite clients are men who are dealing with parental and/or relational issues with their life partner.
Biography
Todd Adams co-founded Zen Parenting, Inc., a company committed to helping people practice self-awareness, develop compassion, and practice kindness through podcasts, community events, books, and blogs. He is the co-host of Zen Parenting Radio Podcast- their motto…“the best predictor of a child’s well-being is a parent’s self-understanding.” He co-created Zen Parenting Conference– an annual weekend dedicated to connection and inspiration.
In 2015 he founded Todd Adams Coaching– “Coaching For Guys” His life coaching certification is through the Tony Robbins Core 100 Life Coaching Program.
Todd is a member of the Mankind Project and a staff member of the New Warrior Training Adventure, and he’s a blogger for The Good Men Project. He’s also a Board Member of Navigate Adolescence which is an organization dedicated to raising the emotional intelligence of boys.
Todd is a certified instructor for the Institute of Heartmath where he was trained in stress reduction and relaxation. Todd is a Junior Achievement Educator at the elementary school level. He has also been an expert guest of the acclaimed on-line parenting resource Kids In The House. He’s also a sales rep for JVI Inc., a real estate investor in Chicagoland, and he and Cathy are the parents of three daughters ages 11, 14, & 16.
Email:todd@menliving.org
Phone:773-251-6344
Shaun Emerson
For the last 30 years, I have engaged individuals in personal and professional development. My approach? I listen and am curious. I ask lots of questions. I will suggest ideas and practices and help you maneuver through this work, but I am just the guide. Whatever your struggle, you must take responsibility for creating change.
Biography
Shaun grew up in New England and graduated from the College of the Holy Cross. He has been in the Chicago area since 1986. He is a father of three and has been married to his wife, Lisa, since 1993.
For over twenty-five years, Shaun was engaged in a variety of corporate and entrepreneurial businesses. He now dedicates his time to non-profit initiatives serving in board leadership and volunteer positions for multiple organizations. Shaun currently serves as the MenLiving’s Board President, Board Vice President for the PiEproject and Treasurer for Learning to Be Human.
In 2012, Shaun was introduced to the transformational practice of yoga. Moved by the philosophy and the power of the practice, Shaun trained to guide others and has been leading yoga and meditation classes since 2014.
Email:shaun@menliving.org
Phone:847-924-1270
What to expect from a MenLiving guide experience?
We offer one on one sessions in person or via zoom. We figure out where you are, where you want to go and we create a roadmap on how to get you there. We work in whatever sphere of life you’re looking to improve- relationship, parenting, career, time management, work/life balance, etc.
How do I choose A MenLiving Guide?
Each of MenLiving Guides offers unique strengths. They come from different backgrounds and trainings. This offers our Members a variety to suit the needs of each individual. You can stay with one you like, or you can experience each guide to get a variety of experiences from your sessions. Please review the approach, background, and bio of each Guide above and reach out to the one that suits you best.
Discussion Meeting
To discuss, learn, explore a certain topic that falls within the mission of MenLiving. This is led by a MenLiving Facilitator where a previously chosen blog/video/podcast that fits within our mission is communicated to the group approximately one week before the date of the meeting.
After check-in, the facilitator will make some opening comments regarding the selected subject matter and may start with an opening question.
Men will engage by raising their hand and the facilitator will select individuals to talk to keep the discussion orderly.
Everyone should be sensitive to making their point and moving on so other men have an opportunity to comment.
Men will likely come to the call with different perspectives and reactions to the selected topic, and the idea of these calls is certainly not for everyone to agree with one another, but the foundational theme on any MenLiving interactions is learning about ourselves and building community through respectful dialog.
Depending on the number of people on the call- the facilitator may choose to create “breakout rooms” to create a more manageable number and ensure it is a more productive call. If breakout rooms are chosen- there will be other pre-assigned MenLiving facilitators to lead the breakout rooms.
Support Meeting
To support one another with specific issue(s). This is led by a MenLiving Facilitator and there is no specific topic; instead the men on the call will be invited to share, listen & support the other men with whatever they happen to be experiencing.
After check-in the facilitator will ask each man to enter a “number” in the chat box (which will be on your screen) on where they are. A “1” means life is good and you are presently not struggling with anything at the moment. A “5” means you presently have some significant struggles, stress, challenges in your life.
Once in the main room or breakout room- the facilitator will give a specific amount of time and invite a man to do a deeper check-in with the other men on the call. How that man chooses to use his time is up to him.
The structure we use is called “Listen, Bless, Counsel” The man chooses what it is he wants.
Listen- Take all of his allotted time for the other men to actively listen
Bless- Take most of his time to talk/vent/release and at the end receive a blessing from the other men
Counsel- Take any portion of his time to describe the current situation.
Once he feels complete, he asks any man who has clarifying questions or direct feedback to literally raise their hand and then calls on that man.
Once that man is done, he either replies or calls on a different man offering feedback/counsel.
The facilitator will be the timekeeper ensuring the men who most need the support gets a chance.
What development areas do you cover?
Emotional Wellness
- Stress / Anxiety / Burnout
- Communication
- Emotional Capacity / Resiliency / Flexibility
- Connection
- Purpose & Fulfillment
- Self Esteem / Limiting Beliefs
Professional / Career
- Entrepreneurship / Startups
- Growing Companies
- Habit Formation / Productivity / Goals
- Leadership / Professional Development
Relationships
- Friendship / Community
- Professional
- Romantic / Intimate
- Fatherhood
Discussion Meeting
To discuss, learn, explore a certain topic that falls within the mission of MenLiving. This is led by a MenLiving Facilitator where a previously chosen blog/video/podcast that fits within our mission is communicated to the group approximately one week before the date of the meeting.
After check-in, the facilitator will make some opening comments regarding the selected subject matter and may start with an opening question.
Men will engage by raising their hand and the facilitator will select individuals to talk to keep the discussion orderly.
Everyone should be sensitive to making their point and moving on so other men have an opportunity to comment.
Men will likely come to the call with different perspectives and reactions to the selected topic, and the idea of these calls is certainly not for everyone to agree with one another, but the foundational theme on any MenLiving interactions is learning about ourselves and building community through respectful dialog.
Depending on the number of people on the call- the facilitator may choose to create “breakout rooms” to create a more manageable number and ensure it is a more productive call. If breakout rooms are chosen- there will be other pre-assigned MenLiving facilitators to lead the breakout rooms.
Support Meeting
To support one another with specific issue(s). This is led by a MenLiving Facilitator and there is no specific topic; instead the men on the call will be invited to share, listen & support the other men with whatever they happen to be experiencing.
After check-in the facilitator will ask each man to enter a “number” in the chat box (which will be on your screen) on where they are. A “1” means life is good and you are presently not struggling with anything at the moment. A “5” means you presently have some significant struggles, stress, challenges in your life.
Once in the main room or breakout room- the facilitator will give a specific amount of time and invite a man to do a deeper check-in with the other men on the call. How that man chooses to use his time is up to him.
The structure we use is called “Listen, Bless, Counsel” The man chooses what it is he wants.
Listen- Take all of his allotted time for the other men to actively listen
Bless- Take most of his time to talk/vent/release and at the end receive a blessing from the other men
Counsel- Take any portion of his time to describe the current situation.
Once he feels complete, he asks any man who has clarifying questions or direct feedback to literally raise their hand and then calls on that man.
Once that man is done, he either replies or calls on a different man offering feedback/counsel.
The facilitator will be the timekeeper ensuring the men who most need the support gets a chance.
How much does it cost?
As a benefit to becoming a member, MenLiving offers up to three complimentary 1 on 1 coaching sessions with a MenLiving guide. If you are a non-member who is interested in getting coaching, please contact a MenLiving guide by emailing him directly.
Discussion Meeting
To discuss, learn, explore a certain topic that falls within the mission of MenLiving. This is led by a MenLiving Facilitator where a previously chosen blog/video/podcast that fits within our mission is communicated to the group approximately one week before the date of the meeting.
After check-in, the facilitator will make some opening comments regarding the selected subject matter and may start with an opening question.
Men will engage by raising their hand and the facilitator will select individuals to talk to keep the discussion orderly.
Everyone should be sensitive to making their point and moving on so other men have an opportunity to comment.
Men will likely come to the call with different perspectives and reactions to the selected topic, and the idea of these calls is certainly not for everyone to agree with one another, but the foundational theme on any MenLiving interactions is learning about ourselves and building community through respectful dialog.
Depending on the number of people on the call- the facilitator may choose to create “breakout rooms” to create a more manageable number and ensure it is a more productive call. If breakout rooms are chosen- there will be other pre-assigned MenLiving facilitators to lead the breakout rooms.
Support Meeting
To support one another with specific issue(s). This is led by a MenLiving Facilitator and there is no specific topic; instead the men on the call will be invited to share, listen & support the other men with whatever they happen to be experiencing.
After check-in the facilitator will ask each man to enter a “number” in the chat box (which will be on your screen) on where they are. A “1” means life is good and you are presently not struggling with anything at the moment. A “5” means you presently have some significant struggles, stress, challenges in your life.
Once in the main room or breakout room- the facilitator will give a specific amount of time and invite a man to do a deeper check-in with the other men on the call. How that man chooses to use his time is up to him.
The structure we use is called “Listen, Bless, Counsel” The man chooses what it is he wants.
Listen- Take all of his allotted time for the other men to actively listen
Bless- Take most of his time to talk/vent/release and at the end receive a blessing from the other men
Counsel- Take any portion of his time to describe the current situation.
Once he feels complete, he asks any man who has clarifying questions or direct feedback to literally raise their hand and then calls on that man.
Once that man is done, he either replies or calls on a different man offering feedback/counsel.
The facilitator will be the timekeeper ensuring the men who most need the support gets a chance.
Jump on Board as a Member
Our vision is to live in a more harmonious world by deepening connections amongst men.
MenLiving was created in 2012 to create a community of men to give and get support from one another. I believe that when a man is connected to himself and other men that it has a ripple effect into his relationships, parenting, community, and beyond.
This is the foundation of what we do- create a space for men to connect with one another on a deeper level. So I invite you to jump on board and help us live in a more harmonious world - one man at a time.
Are you in?
Todd (Co-Founder)