What does it mean to be in the arena?

With Love, Men

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In this episode of With Love, Men, co-hosts Jake Fishbein and Nick Papadopoulos explore a fundamental question: Are you living in the arena or watching from the stands?

Drawing inspiration from Teddy Roosevelt's famous "Man in the Arena" speech, Jake and Nick challenge listeners to step out of the safety of spectating and into the messy, vital experience of being fully alive. Through baseball metaphors, immigrant stories, and raw personal reflections, they examine what it means to show up present, vulnerable, and accountable in your own life.

Expect honest conversations about the pain of avoiding your own arena, the courage required to feel everything, and practical strategies for being present in relationships—even when triggered. This isn't about perfection; it's about the willingness to strike out swinging rather than never stepping up to bat.

🔑 Topics Covered

• The arena vs. the stands: Why spectating your life hurts more than risking failure
• How to show up present and honest in relationships when it matters most
• The immigrant mindset: Lessons in resilience and commitment from Nick's parents
• Why being triggered isn't something to avoid—it's information to work with
• Practical preparation strategies for life's most important interactions
• The difference between outcome and experience: Why aliveness trumps winning

💡 Reflective Prompt Where in your life are you sitting in the stands instead of stepping into the arena?

📍Links + Resources

• Jake's website: www.jakefishbein.com
• Nick's website: www.coachnick.com
• The Arena Men's Group: www.arenamensgroup.com

💼 Connect with Us on LinkedIn:

• Jake Fishbein
• Nick Papadopoulos

With Love, Jake & Nick