The Arka Talks Podcast

Ben Goresky - Arka Brotherhood co-director - shares about the road from addiction and loneliness to co-leading a global brotherhood. It’s a raw conversation about men’s mental health, leadership, and the art of living a life full of chosen responsibilities.
In this episode
The journey from teen addiction and difficult family dynamics to men’s leadership
Why accountability, not advice, changes men
How relationships challenge men to grow beyond avoidance
The role of brotherhood in facing criticism, father wounds, and emotional pain
Stepping up to leadership - deciding to run your own men’s group
Handling intense moments: suicide risk, service, and true presence
Balancing fatherhood, marriage, business, and mission without fooling yourself
Key takeaways
Men’s groups are not therapy - they are practice grounds for integrity and power.
Brotherhood allows men to face shadow without collapsing into shame or bravado.
Mature masculinity means owning every responsibility you willingly take on.
Many men run from discomfort; real growth happens by staying and listening.
Every meaningful achievement is earned through struggle - not escape.
Presence with family and partner is a test few men prepare for intentionally.
Vulnerability and dark moments - including suicidal thoughts - require community and brotherhood.
Addiction persists until you face reality and accept full ownership.
Leadership starts from commitment, not ambition.
 
Links from this episodeBen’s website - Evolving ManThe Freedom From Addiction Circle
Follow Ben @Evolvingman on Instagram
Apply to join an Arka Brotherhood groupSubscribe for honest conversations on men’s work and leadership - or learn more at arkabrotherhood.com.
 

He walked into men's work not knowing what he was signing up for, and left with a deeper sense of purpose and a mission to serve. In this episode, we explore brotherhood, leadership, and what changes in a man's life when he takes responsibility for those around him. Today’s guest is Matt Cooke, co-director of The Arka Brotherhood.
In this episode
The origin story: a festival invitation and the power of first impressions
How men’s work revealed hidden patterns, judgments, and real connection
Stepping into leadership - uncertainty, imposter syndrome, and how confidence gets earned
The role of care in teaching and leading young men
What boys are missing in today’s schools - and what men can do about it
The real meaning of “I’ve got your back” in brotherhood circles
Key takeaways
Leadership is not about status - it’s about service and caring.
Trusting yourself is the foundation; the reps make it real.
Honest feedback and humility are essential for growth.
Young men need male role models - presence and care matter more than expertise.
Meaningful impact often comes from attention, confidence, and real belief in someone.
“I’ve got your back” is a choice to care, not just a slogan.
Connection in small groups ignites caring and belonging.
Teachers can have a massive impact on the life path of the youth they teach.
Leadership styles vary, but integrity and purpose are non-negotiable.
Subscribe for more real conversations, and if you’re ready to step inside brotherhood, learn more at arkabrotherhood.com.
Real Men. Real Stories. The Path of the Conscious Warrior.

In this episode, we set the foundation for The Arka Talks men’s work podcast. Ben Goresky breaks down the story and principles behind our brotherhood, inviting men from around the world to step into one of our leadership training circles for the first time. 
In this episode
The origin and purpose of Arka Brotherhood
Why authenticity and vulnerability matter among men
How squads create discipline, accountability, and support
The 14 Point Code of the Conscious Warrior
Why Arka is non-religious, apolitical, and member-focused
What brotherhood looks like when it’s not a social club
The power of men’s inner work: “Know thyself”, train your body, speak the truth
Key takeaways
Real change requires honesty and facing your own shadow.
Men’s lives level up when they’re held to their word - not just by themselves, but by other men.
Leadership develops through action, not title or hype.
Every man benefits from a personal code.
There’s no one right path to meaning - but you must choose yours.
Arka is internally focussed. For our members, transformation happens face to face.
What happens in the circle shapes how you show up at home, at work, and in the world.
 
If this episode gets you interested in what’s to come, subscribe and share it with someone who’s ready to grow - or learn more at arkabrotherhood.com.

Welcome to the Arka Talks Podcast from the ARKA Brotherhood — a global community of men committed to growth, truth, and conscious leadership.We're looking forward to sharing conversations with depth and inspiration.Real men. Real stories. The path of the conscious warrior. Come with us at arkabrotherhood.com