We're kicking off Season Two of Hay Are We Okay? with a conversation about connection, community, and what happens when men choose to show up for one another.
When Jeremy Wiens and Ryan Pasieczka realized too many men in their community were struggling in silence, they decided to do something about it. It began as a simple idea: create a space where men can talk openly about life's challenges. That quickly grew into the Southeast Men's Group, face-to-face meetings for men, led by men, across south-eastern Manitoba.
"It was shocking how many people came," said Pasieczka. "You see all these big strong guys and it was kind of hard for the first person to talk, and after that it was like you opened the floodgates."
In this episode, Wiens and Pasieczka explain why they started the group, the surprise they felt when dozens of rural men showed up for the first meeting, and why each person committed to listening without judgment. The group gives men a safer space to talk, connect, and feel supported, without feeling like a burden. That face-to-face connection creates a built-in community to help navigate divorce, job loss, grief, injuries, financial stress, and pain.
"One of the biggest [rules] was no bashing people, especially women. We're not here to put down women, and we're very, very blunt on that," said Wiens.
"This is about ownership. This is about growth. This is about us being better, not pushing blame on somebody else," he said.
Whether you're looking for ways to support mental health in your own community or simply want to hear what can happen when men choose to show up for one another, this episode is a powerful reminder that creating space for connection can make a real difference.
We love hearing your ideas, comments, and stories. Get in touch with Merle by sending your e-mail or audio message to feedback@domore.ag.
