No Hyperbole: How A MenLiving “Advance” Changed Me

by Jason Samatas

In January 2017, I was separated from my wife and working in a family business that was in crisis. I had been peripherally involved in MenLiving (The “Tribe” back then) and knew Todd Adams fairly well. Todd had encouraged me to go on the then-called Tribe Retreat in Wisconsin. I was hesitant but knew I needed help, support, and some sort of connection as I was drowning in my own self-pity. I was certainly at a low point in my life. The Retreat I attended ended up changing me and changing the course of my life. It helped me connect with some amazing men, while also doing some very powerful healing and energizing work around myself. I came home with a new sense of purpose and whole new bunch of friends. Since then, I’ve attended or led every single Retreat/Advance that my schedule allows, regardless of my emotional state. That’s ten and still counting…..

Today, I am the Weekend Coordinator for MenLiving, which means I am responsible for the oversight of what we now call MenLiving Advances. I took on this role because I am passionate about the process and love being able to help, support and lead men on their own individual journeys. The reason we changed the name a few years ago is because we want men who attend to “advance” their lives however they see fit. It can be an advance of friendships and connection, or an advance of emotional intelligence. It does not matter. We welcome all men, whether you feel like you’re on top of the world and just looking to connect or are in a challenging emotional place and in need of support. Wherever you are, we’ll meet you there and want you with us.

Finally, I’d like to invite all of you to our upcoming Advances. Whether you’re a first-timer or a veteran, each Advance has its own life, culture and meaning depending on the location, the leaders, and the attendees.  However, the goals remain the same; support, love, connect, play, relax and immerse. This is a beautiful time of year, and lots of upcoming opportunities are here for you! Here’s what we’re offering:

Eastern Advance – led by Todd Adams and Mike Patterson, this Advance will take place in the deep woods of beautiful central Virginia. Inspired by Pink Floyd’s “Dark Side of the Moon” album, the event will undoubtedly be powerful, fun, inspiring and original.  September 11-14

Western Advance – led by Jason Samatas and Mike Patterson, this Advance will take place in the high desert of central Arizona, with a Western theme and held at the Samatas house designed as a flair of Spanish and Native American culture. Inspired by pilot Jason Samatas’s love of the movie “Top Gun”, the event will include deep processes around masculinity, fireside chats, pool games, relaxation in the hot tub, desert hikes, and deep connection.  November 6-9

Midwest Advance – led by Mike Patterson and Frank Naugo, this Advance is the Godfather of Advances. This is where it all began, in the cold, blustery but beautiful tundra of southern Wisconsin. Enjoy outdoor and indoor fires, nighttime hikes in the vast winter forestry, historical nods to MenLiving’s history, and deep personal work.  January 15-18

Please join us. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

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