Press Cuttings
These cuttings are written by Michael Elias, who would be happy to discuss writing columns, features, articles, etc. for you.
Please contact us at publicity@menspeak.co.uk
Are You Up For It?
Changing Times - Issue 1
What exactly do men talk about at men’s groups?
What exactly do men talk about at men’s groups? What do they get up to? Rolled up trouser-legs and funny handshakes? Dares, dangers and devilish deeds with dizzy blondes? Or boisterous banter of bars and changing rooms revisited?
“MEN Speak the Unspeakable” co-author Michael Elias (straight ex-catholic ex-refugee) and Edward Seeker (English middle-class bi-Dad) run regular Men’s Groups in London.
“We just hang out and chat!” explains Edward. “Mickey usually gets the balls rolling and facilitates, though the groups is directed by those present.” Mickey’s designed a simple structure that we’ve used with a huge variety of groups that works like magic. I remember a therapist telling Mickey that the openness we go to in one session, he barely achieves in a month with his clients!”
‘Who is lurking in the shadows of your psyche?’ reads the publicity. ‘Best friends? Bad influences? (good fun!) Role models? Siblings? Children? Parents? Those we love, loathe and lust after the most?’ “We do slick rounds of questions, listen to ourselves and one another, get real, laugh. You can join in honestly, or say ‘Pass’ when it’s your turn. We don’t turn up to compete or perform for the others. Self awareness truly is power.” Proudly proclaims Mickey.
“No one tells anyone else what to do. We can share our thoughts and experiences and respectfully challenge one another. Clean, male company, comparing notes and having a laugh. This is not a therapy group. No long-winded stories or justifications. Not a place to lick wounds or join the victim club. Our space is more a quick, slick check-in, providing invaluable insights to healthily take into daily life.
“I don’t know anywhere else where gay, straight, bi-men, rich and poor can get together, ask questions and really listen to each other. Often, the funniest, most embarrassing stories provide the most valuable insights! I am humbled by the natural courage by the guys – regulars and new.” Mickey enthused.
“In order for this to work, there has to be a level of trust and respect. We provide ground rules, which we’re always happy to discuss and amend. It would be silly to be inflexible and not meet the men’s particular needs as each group sitting is quite unique.”