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Published on:

26th Sep 2025

Understanding the Two Hidden Sides of Men: The Bully vs. The Coward

In this solo episode, host Michael Diamond takes listeners deep into the Shadow Warrior archetype, the most destructive of the four masculine archetypes. Exploring both poles—the bully fueled by rage, control, and workaholism, and the coward marked by avoidance, passivity, and self-betrayal—Michael challenges men to reflect on where these patterns show up in their lives. Through raw prompts and powerful reframes, he reveals how intensity is often used to avoid intimacy, how control shrinks freedom, and why betraying one’s truth erodes personal power. By confronting these shadows and stepping into the Sacred Warrior, men can transform rage into strength, control into discipline, and avoidance into authentic leadership.

Chapters:

  • 00:00:00 - Introduction: The Shadow Warrior Archetype
  • 00:01:58 - The Destructive Power of the Shadow Warrior
  • 00:02:25 - The Two Poles: The Bully and The Coward
  • 00:03:19 - Deep Dive: The Bully Archetype (Positive Pole)
  • 00:04:52 - Bully Question 1: Using Intensity to Avoid Intimacy
  • 00:07:09 - Bully Question 2: Addiction to Control
  • 00:08:26 - Bully Question 3: Bulldozing Emotions for Productivity
  • 00:10:01 - Key Lesson: Emotions as Verbs, Not Identity
  • 00:11:25 - Deep Dive: The Coward Archetype (Negative Pole)
  • 00:12:50 - Coward Question 1: Avoiding Confrontation
  • 00:13:12 - Coward Question 2: Lacking Clear Boundaries
  • 00:14:07 - Coward Question 3: Betraying Your Truth for Acceptance
  • 00:16:19 - The Ideal: Accessing the Sacred Warrior
  • 00:17:15 - Committing to a Mission
  • 00:18:21 - Becoming the "Chain Breaker" in Your Family
  • 00:19:10 - The Power of Brotherhood and Vulnerability
  • 00:20:07 - Conclusion and Final Prompts for Self-Inquiry
  • 00:20:41 - Doing the Inner Work for the Next Generation

Links And Resources:

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About the Podcast

IgKnight the King
Join Dr. Michael Diamond as he dive into the heart of masculinity and personal growth on the IgKnight the King podcast. Each episode unpacks the trials and triumphs that men face today with unflinching honesty and a touch of humor. From redefining manhood in our changing world to overcoming personal barriers and finding one’s mission, this show is a beacon for any man eager to challenge himself and grow. Whether discussing the pillars of kingship or the nuances of relationships and self-identity, Michael offers not just insights but real, actionable steps to inspire change. Tune in to transform how you navigate your path and to connect with a community committed to doing the work, side by side.

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Hector Santiesteban