Moving past power lists, we spotlight figures making waves in men’s mental health, fitness, mindset, and personal development.
Forget the usual lists ranking presidents and CEOs by global clout. Let’s dive into a different, arguably more personal, realm of influence: men whose work actively resonates with other men seeking to improve themselves, understand their place in the world, or tackle specific challenges related to health, mindset, and modern masculinity.
Who are the figures providing tools, sparking conversations, or offering frameworks that men are actually using to navigate life right now? This isn’t about endorsement, as some figures are controversial, but about acknowledging their impact in this specific sphere. Here are 13+ influential men making a mark in 2025:
Category: Mind & Performance (Science-Based)
Andrew Huberman (Neuroscientist, Podcaster – Huberman Lab)
Huberman has exploded in popularity by making cutting-edge neuroscience accessible and actionable. Millions of men tune into his podcast for detailed, science-backed “protocols” on everything from optimising sleep and focus to managing stress, improving fitness, and boosting testosterone. He empowers men with knowledge to take control of their biology and mental states.
Peter Attia (Physician, Podcaster – The Peter Attia Drive)
Focused on the science of longevity and healthspan (“Medicine 3.0”), Attia delves deep into metabolic health, exercise physiology, nutrition, and emotional well-being. He appeals to men seeking rigorous, evidence-based strategies to optimise their physical health for the long haul, going far beyond surface-level fitness advice.
Category: Mindset & Discipline (Extreme Achievement & Ownership)
David Goggins (Former Navy SEAL, Ultramarathon Runner, Author)
Goggins is a raw force of nature whose message centres on extreme mental toughness, embracing discomfort, and “callousing the mind.” His story of overcoming immense adversity resonates powerfully with men looking to break through limitations, build discipline, and cultivate resilience. His “no excuses” philosophy is intensely motivational for a specific audience.
Jocko Willink (Former Navy SEAL, Author, Podcaster – Jocko Podcast)
Willink translates battlefield leadership principles into everyday life through the concept of “Extreme Ownership” – taking full responsibility. His focus on discipline (“Discipline Equals Freedom”), stoicism, and practical problem-solving provides a framework for men seeking structure, accountability, and effective leadership in their own lives, work, and families.
Category: Psychology, Philosophy & Masculinity
Jordan Peterson (Clinical Psychologist, Author, Cultural Commentator)
Peterson remains a highly significant figure, providing psychological and philosophical frameworks (often drawing on mythology and religion) that many men use to find meaning, structure, and personal responsibility. His discussions on confronting chaos, speaking truth, and navigating relationships continue to fuel intense debate and provide guidance for men grappling with modern life and masculinity.
Gabor Maté (Physician, Author)
While his work isn’t solely male-focused, Dr. Maté’s insights into trauma, addiction, stress, and ADHD are profoundly relevant for men seeking to understand the roots of their struggles. His compassionate approach helps men connect past experiences to present behaviours and mental health challenges, offering pathways towards healing.
Naval Ravikant (Entrepreneur, Investor, Philosopher)
Ravikant offers concise, deeply considered insights on wealth creation, happiness, rationality, and living a meaningful life, often via platforms like X and podcasts. His philosophical yet practical approach appeals to men seeking wisdom on navigating modern work, decision-making, and finding inner peace beyond just material success.
Category: Podcast Hosts & Curators (Facilitating Relevant Conversations)
Joe Rogan (Podcaster – The Joe Rogan Experience)
Rogan hosts the world’s biggest podcast, featuring long-form conversations with experts across countless fields relevant to men – from MMA fighters and comedians to scientists (like Huberman and Attia), authors, and entrepreneurs. His platform introduces millions of men to new ideas, disciplines, and perspectives, significantly shaping discourse on health, fitness, free speech, and more.
Chris Williamson (Podcaster – Modern Wisdom)
Williamson delves into self-improvement, mindset, philosophy, dating, and productivity, interviewing insightful guests and synthesising complex ideas. He caters directly to an audience (largely male) interested in practical wisdom, understanding the modern world, and personal optimisation, fostering a community around growth.
Steven Bartlett (Entrepreneur, Podcaster – The Diary Of A CEO)
Particularly prominent here in the UK, Bartlett interviews high achievers from diverse fields, exploring their journeys, mindsets, failures, and vulnerabilities. His focus on entrepreneurship, mental health, and the realities behind success resonates strongly with younger men seeking inspiration and relatable insights into building a career and life.
Category: Community & Skill Building
Brett McKay (Founder – Art of Manliness)
For well over a decade, AoM has been a resource exploring practical skills, classic virtues, history, and thoughtful discussions about modern manhood. It provides content that helps men connect with traditional notions of competence and character, offering a counterpoint to some other online narratives.
Ryan Michler (Founder – Order of Man)
Michler has built a community and podcast explicitly focused on helping men become better husbands, fathers, and leaders. He provides frameworks and interviews guests aimed at fostering competence, self-mastery, and strong family/community ties.
Category: Business & Motivation (High Energy)
Gary Vaynerchuk (Entrepreneur, CEO, Content Creator)
“Gary Vee” provides high-energy motivation focused on entrepreneurship, marketing, work ethic, and leveraging social media. He appeals strongly to men seeking practical advice and a kick-start for building businesses or personal brands, embodying a specific “hustle culture” mindset.
Beyond Individuals: Influential Movements
It’s also worth noting the influence of movements like Movember, which has massively raised awareness and funds for prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and men’s mental health/suicide prevention. Online communities and forums dedicated to specific aspects of men’s development or support also exert considerable collective influence.
Final Thoughts
This list represents a different kind of power – the power to shape individual lives through ideas, tools, and inspiration. These figures, whatever you think of their specific messages, are undeniably influential in providing resources and frameworks that many men are using to navigate challenges and strive for growth in 2025. As always, critical thinking is key – take what’s useful, discard what’s not, and remember that professional help from therapists or doctors is often essential for deeper issues.
Who else belongs on this list focused on men helping men? Let us know your thoughts!
