Checking In: Real Talk with Two Men

A Companion Resource Guide from Mind & Faith Matters
Guest: Dr. Joe Weaver

 

Episode Summary

In this honest and entertaining conversation, Dr. Cory Potter sits down with his nephew, Dr. Joe Weaver, a father of five, psychology professor, and fellow deep thinker. They talk about what it means to check in with yourself and the people around you. From the pressures of parenting and marriage to back hair, dad jokes, and mental health awareness, this is a real, refreshing look at what men go through and how we can show up better for ourselves and for others.

 

Key Themes

  • The emotional lives of men: real talk, not stereotypes

  • Why we avoid asking for help and how to break that cycle

  • The mental load of parenting and marriage

  • Creating space to check in before things fall apart

 

1. Questions for Self-Reflection

Use these to check in with yourself regularly. They’re inspired by mental health assessments and intake questions used by therapists.

 

Mental and Emotional Health

  • Am I feeling low, numb, angry, or more tired than usual?

  • Do I still enjoy the things that usually bring me joy?

  • Have I been isolating or withdrawing from people I care about?

  • Have I been coping in healthy ways or numbing (alcohol, work, screens)?

 

Physical Health and Routine

  • Am I sleeping through the night? Do I feel rested when I wake up?

  • Have I noticed changes in my appetite, energy, or weight?

  • Am I taking any medications, and are they helping?

 

Mental Clarity and Focus

  • Am I struggling to concentrate, stay motivated, or stay organized?

  • Do I feel like I’m running on fumes?

  • Have I been honest with myself about how I’m really doing?

 

2. Checking In on Others

Sometimes all it takes is one intentional moment to interrupt someone’s spiral.

 

Simple Questions to Ask:

  • How’s your head and heart doing these days?

  • You been sleeping okay?

  • What’s been the hardest part of your week?

  • Need to vent or get some fresh air?

 

Red Flags to Watch For:
✔ Sudden mood swings or silence
✔ Drinking or working more than usual
✔ Expressing hopelessness or being a burden
✔ Saying “I’m fine” too quickly or often

 

How to Be There Without Fixing:

  • Listen before offering advice

  • Say: “You’re not alone in this. I’ve felt that too.”

  • Offer help: “Want me to check in again next week?”

  • If they hint at self-harm or feeling unsafe, call 988 or stay present until help arrives

 

3. What to Do When Things Feel Off

 

If You’re Struggling:

  • Talk to a professional. There’s no substitute for good therapy

  • See your doctor. Bloodwork can rule out issues like low testosterone, thyroid imbalance, or vitamin deficiencies

  • Reboot your basics. Get 7 to 9 hours of sleep, walk 30 minutes a day, and eat real food

  • Schedule connection. Set up a regular check-in call or coffee with a friend

  • Name what’s going on. Journaling or voice memos help make the invisible visible

 

If a Friend is Struggling:

  • Check in again. Don’t let one conversation be the last

  • Offer your presence, not just advice

  • Use “I” language. Say “I’ve noticed...” or “I care about you...”

  • Respect their pace, but encourage them to take action

  • If they’re in crisis, stay with them and call or text 988

 

4. Resources

 

 

Final Takeaway

You don’t have to be in crisis to check in. And you don’t have to have all the answers to ask someone else how they’re really doing. Start with honesty. Stay consistent. And don’t be afraid to laugh along the way.