Inspire Change with Gunter cover art

Inspire Change with Gunter

Inspire Change with Gunter

By: Bonfire Cinema
Listen for free

LIMITED TIME OFFER | £0.99/mo for the first 3 months

Premium Plus auto-renews at £8.99/mo after 3 months. Terms apply.

About this listen

 Join our Patreon for exclusive content, perks, connections, discounts and special events and announcments only for our patreon subscribers: www.patreon.com/inspirechangeOR If you want more, join the Legends of Power Swoboda-Josephson Inner Circle as a VIP that includes the Changemaker Collective here: JOIN LEGENDS OF POWER w/CHANGEMAKER COLLECTIVEInternational Psychologist, Author, Speaker and Producer Gunter Swoboda continues to Inspire Change and enlighten and educate on Masculinities and Male Empowerment. After 40 years of working with adolescent boys and men, Gunter founded Making Good Men Great. It focuses on helping men recognize how to evolve as a Man in all the spheres of his life. We continue with our regular of broadcasts of 20-30 minute episodes hosted by Gunter every week and then we will have special guests lined up during each season for special 50-1 hour episodes. We also will take requests from past guests or friends of the podcasts to fill in as a guest host. For more information on becoming a guest or guest hosting, email creative@bonfirecinema.com or query the showrunner Miranda Spigener-Sapon at miranda.sapon@bonfirecinema.com- www.GunterSwoboda.com & www.GoodMenGreat.com -Inspire Change with Gunter is Produced in Los Angeles by Miranda Spigener-Sapon by Bonfire Cinema. Thank you for listening!Executive Producer/Showrunner: Miranda Spigener-SaponCo-Exec. Producer: DeVonna PrinziProducer/Creator/Host: Gunter SwobodaShowrunner's Assistant/Guest Booking: Emilia Osborne Emilia.Osborne@bonfirecinema.comJr. Publicist: Dessie Bien Dessie.Bien@lavendersagepr.comAnnouncer: Grayson ArndtInspire Change with Gunter Podcast Theme Music score: Irad EshelAbout Gunter, The Short Story……Gunter is a psychologist, speaker, author, mentor, coach and facilitator with over 30 years experience in counseling and organizational development.SPEAKERAfter more than 40 years experience Gunter’s passionate perspectives on what makes human beings thrive makes him a very insightful commentator and speaker. His aim is to stimulate your mind, touch your heart, and inspire your soul. Gunter is a psychologist, speaker, author, mentor, coach and facilitator with over 30 years experience in counseling and organizational development. Gunter has given keynotes all over Australia, NYC and Los Angeles as well as being a TEDx Speaker. AuthorWe all have a story. Stories that touch us the most are about that moment when we make the choice to be real, to drop any pretense of pride, power and position. In that telling moment we step into a new space where our ability to overcome fear allows us to be truly authentic in our relationship to the world. In that moment we become fully human. Gunter has authored a novel Mountains of Sea published by Winterwolf Press and he self-published the non-fiction, Making Good Men Great: Surfing the New Wave of Masculinity. Both books are available at all major and independent retailers globally. The Making Good Men Great Movement also made Oprah’s #MustWatch list in 2018.MentorIn both the personal and professional sphere, Gunter has successfully worn many hats. Added to his education, experience and eloquence it allows him to develop a relationship with someone that ignites their aspirations.CoachIn today’s world, the challenge to be ‘perfect’ is a constant source of stress. Gunter firmly believes that each person has to find their ‘own bliss’. His part in that journey is to engage with the person he is working with to unlock their aspirations, align them to their vision and to help keep them inspired.FacilitatorGunter is exceptional in facilitating outcomes in learning, productivity, and communication by providing a safe environment with unobtrusive assistance and guidance wherein participants experience the flow between content and context. His skill in utilizing philosophical and psychological methods enhances the participants experience in the process.To purchase Gunter's books:Making Good Men Great: Surfing the New Wave of Masculinity you can get it on Amazon Prime, Barnes & Noble and most online retailers: https://www.amazon.com/Making-Good-Men-Great-Masculinity/dp/0999266802 https://www.walmart.com/ip/Making-Good-Men-Great-Surfing-the-New-Wave-of-Masculinity-Paperback-9780999266809/685658548In Australia:https://www.angusrobertson.com.au/books/making-good-men-great-gunter-swoboda/p/9780999266809In the UK:https://www.waterstones.com/book/making-good-men-great/gunter-swoboda/9780999266809To watch the Venice TV Award nominated documentary created by Gunter and directed by Miranda Spigener-Sapon you can rent or buy on Amazon Prime:https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B07RVD89XZ/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_rAlternative therapy options, try BetterHelp: betterhelp.com/GUNTER and get on your way to being your best self.” Get started today and enjoy 10% off your first month. Your discount code “gunter" will be automatically applied.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://...Making Good Men Great/Gunter Swoboda in association with Bonfire Cinema Art Hygiene & Healthy Living Literary History & Criticism Psychology Psychology & Mental Health Social Sciences
Episodes
  • Inspire Change with Gunter 8-315 | Beyond the Manosphere_ Empathy, Boundaries, and a Healthier Path Forward

    Inspire Change with Gunter 8-315 | Beyond the Manosphere_ Empathy, Boundaries, and a Healthier Path Forward
    Jan 21 2026
    This week on Inspire Change with Gunter - Gunter explores the complex and often misunderstood phenomenon known as the manosphere. Rather than framing it as a definition of masculinity, Gunter examines the manosphere as a symptom of deeper societal issues affecting men today, including loneliness, confusion, emotional disconnection, and the search for belonging.In this episode,

    Gunter breaks down what the manosphere offers, how it exploits unresolved pain and vulnerability, and why many young men are drawn into grievance-based narratives. He emphasizes the importance of moving beyond condemnation or ridicule and instead building credible counter-narratives rooted in empathy, dignity, and emotional literacy.Gunter shares practical strategies for engagement, including translating grievances into underlying needs, developing bodily awareness, setting healthy boundaries, and creating pathways that support emotional growth and genuine connection. By acknowledging men’s pain without reinforcing blame or division, this conversation offers tools for healthier dialogue, stronger relationships, and more constructive responses to online radicalization.This episode is a call to action for parents, partners, educators, and society at large to foster environments where men can safely express vulnerability, build emotional resilience, and connect with others in meaningful ways.

    Takeaways
    The manosphere is a symptom of deeper societal issues. Many young men seek belonging and validation in the manosphere. Understanding men's pain is crucial for creating effective counter-narratives. Grievances often mask unmet emotional needs. Building dignity pathways is essential for emotional growth.

    Themes
    Navigating the Manosphere: Understanding Men's Pain Beyond the Manosphere: A Path to Healthy Masculinity

    Sound Bites
    "This podcast is actually going to be about the manosphere." "We misunderstand what the manosphere is actually doing." "We need to build credible counter narratives."

    Gratitude
    Hello to all our listeners, we thank YOU for tuning in and promoting positive social change. We are thrilled to announce that we have officially hit 170,000 downloads for our season 8 premiere!
    Thank you all so much for continuing to be a part of Gunter's efforts in transforming not only men's lives, but lives in general. We are forever grateful for your continued support, which we clearly see reflected on our Listeners Lists; therefore, we share our gratitude with our listeners in the south of France. You made it to #10 on this weeks Global Listeners List! For our Top Ten on the USA List we want to give a special shout out to Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens for getting New York to #3 in the USA! CONGRATULATIONS France & NY!!

    We thank you so much for your continued support and we appreciate your efforts to support positive social change!

    I, DeVonna Prinzi the Co-Exec Producer and our Show-runner Miranda Spigener-Sapon sincerely thank you and ask that you please take the time to like, follow, subscribe, and share as your efforts make a difference to everyone here at Inspire Change with Gunter.
    Please remember If you want to share your story of social change, feel free to reach out to the show directly. Please see the show-notes for our contact information. As always thank you to each and every one of our listeners, and most importantly please keep Inspiring positive social change.



    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/inspire-change-with-gunter--3633478/support.

    Gunter Swoboda and Lorin Josephson's neo-noir/supernatural thriller novel Amulets of Power, Book I A Brian Poole Mystery is officially ON SALE EVERYWHERE you like to get book, but if you want a discount please consider ording direct. ANY LISTENER who order's direct will get a surprise gift. https://shop.ingramspark.com/b/084?params=3RoOA6kVQ7ZgmqSK9LdnvNyDAZZFsg9IMaLUaprPgXK

    Make sure you LIKE SUBSCRIBE & FOLLOW our new Official YouTube Channel of Video Shorts series: https://www.youtube.com/@InspireChangewithGunterSwoboda/videos where we will be adding new videos and content every week from Gunter and our guests. https://www.youtube.com/@InspireChangewithGunterSwoboda/videos
    Show More Show Less
    35 mins
  • Inspire Change with Gunter SEASON 8-314 Welcome to Season 8

    Inspire Change with Gunter SEASON 8-314 Welcome to Season 8
    Jan 14 2026
    Happy New Year 2026! We are back and welcome to SEASON 8 of Inspire Change with Gunter. In this episode, Gunter introduces the concept of the evolving self, focusing on the importance of understanding the difference between respect and safety in relationships. He guides listeners through a reflective exercise aimed at identifying personal triggers and responses to feelings of disrespect. The session includes breathing techniques to help downshift the nervous system and emphasizes the practice of using a repair sentence to facilitate better communication and relationship dynamics. The overall goal is to foster personal growth and emotional intelligence.

    Takeaways
    The evolving self is about personal growth and understanding. Respect and safety are not the same thing. Identifying triggers can help in managing responses. Breathing techniques can aid in emotional regulation. A repair sentence can facilitate better communication. Practicing honesty is crucial in relationships. Downshifting the nervous system is essential before responding. Reflection on past experiences can provide insights. Choosing simple, effective communication is key. Building an evolving self requires consistent practice.

    Titles
    • Understanding the Evolving Self
    • Navigating Respect and Safety
    Sound Bites
    • "What did you believe was at stake?"
    • "The long exhale is the point."
    • "One repair sentence practice."
    Gratitude
    Hello to all our listeners, we thank YOU for tuning in and promoting positive social change. This makes you a part of Gunter’s efforts in transforming not only men's lives but lives in general and we are grateful you have joined us. This week we are taking a look at the Global Listeners List. We would like to share our gratitude with our listeners in Japan! Maebashi (mah-eh-BAH-shee),
    Osaka (ow-SAH-kuh), and Yokohama (yoh-kuh-HAH-muh), you brought your country up to #1 on our Global Listeners List! Congratulations! Last but not least, during the holidays, Inspire Change reached over 160 thousand digital downloads! We cannot thank you all enough for getting us closer to our 200 thousand a week goal. We thank you so much for your continued support and we appreciate your efforts to support positive social change! I, DeVonna Prinzi the Co-Exec Producer and our Show-runner Miranda Spigener-Sapon sincerely thank you and ask that you please take the time to like, follow, subscribe, and share as your efforts make a difference to everyone here at Inspire Change with Gunter. Please remember If you want to share your story of social change, feel free to reach out to the show directly. Please see the show-notes for our contact information.
    As always thank you to each and every one of our listeners, and most importantly please keep Inspiring positive social change

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/inspire-change-with-gunter--3633478/support.

    Gunter Swoboda and Lorin Josephson's neo-noir/supernatural thriller novel Amulets of Power, Book I A Brian Poole Mystery is officially ON SALE EVERYWHERE you like to get book, but if you want a discount please consider ording direct. ANY LISTENER who order's direct will get a surprise gift. https://shop.ingramspark.com/b/084?params=3RoOA6kVQ7ZgmqSK9LdnvNyDAZZFsg9IMaLUaprPgXK

    Make sure you LIKE SUBSCRIBE & FOLLOW our new Official YouTube Channel of Video Shorts series: https://www.youtube.com/@InspireChangewithGunterSwoboda/videos where we will be adding new videos and content every week from Gunter and our guests. https://www.youtube.com/@InspireChangewithGunterSwoboda/videos
    Show More Show Less
    24 mins
  • Inspire Change with Gunter 7-313 | Season 7 Finale: Reflections, Growth & What’s Next

    Inspire Change with Gunter 7-313 | Season 7 Finale: Reflections, Growth & What’s Next
    Dec 17 2025
    This week on Inspire Change in this final episode of season seven, Gunter Swoboda reflects on a recent tragedy and its impact on community dynamics. He discusses the importance of inner work (the micro) for personal growth and emotional development, contrasting it with the broader societal issues (the macro) that stem from a lack of emotional maturity. Gunter recaps the themes of the season, emphasizing the need for men to reject harmful societal norms and embrace vulnerability. He introduces upcoming projects for season eight, including a focus on practical skills and the launch of a Patreon to support ongoing work. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to take meaningful steps towards personal transformation. TakeawaysThe micro is where the real action begins.Most men are trying to survive and feel competent.Intimacy can feel like work due to societal pressures.Emotional development is crucial for societal health.Men often trade vulnerability for dominance.Season seven challenged simplistic narratives about masculinity.The upcoming season will focus on practical skills.Patreon will provide tools for ongoing personal work.Intimacy must be examined beyond patriarchal norms.Personal transformation requires actionable steps.Sound Bites"Most men are not trying to be cruel.""You can't out think this, you outgrow it.""Who you become when you stop living a script."Reflections on Tragedy and Community DivisivenessThe Micro: Inner Work and Personal GrowthThe Macro: Societal Issues and Emotional DevelopmenSeason Seven Recap and Future DirectionsIntroducing Season Eight and PatreonClosing Thoughts Call to ActionGet your copy of Gunter Swoboda and Lorin Josephson's new book: Making Good Men Great Surfing the New Wave Of Masculinity Special Edition: https://shop.ingramspark.com/b/084?params=Ow2HhlFDbFjPEmN7n81q2RuJl5czASIU1xJXmSGqXzpJoin our Patreon to continue the conversation—through deeper insight, growth, and exclusive content: www.Patreon.com/InspireChangeTakeawaysThe micro is where the real action begins.Most men are trying to survive and feel competent.Intimacy can feel like work due to societal pressures.Emotional development is crucial for societal health.Men often trade vulnerability for dominance.Season seven challenged simplistic narratives about masculinity.The upcoming season will focus on practical skills.Patreon will provide tools for ongoing personal work.Intimacy must be examined beyond patriarchal norms.Personal transformation requires actionable steps.Sound Bites"Most men are not trying to be cruel.""You can't out think this, you outgrow it.""Who you become when you stop living a script."Chapters 00:00 Reflections on Tragedy and Community Divisiveness 03:05 The Micro: Inner Work and Personal Growth 06:00 The Macro: Societal Issues and Emotional Development 08:48 Season Seven Recap and Future Directions 11:54 Introducing Season Eight and Patreon 15:03 Closing Thoughts and Call to ActionMid-Episode Break is brought to you by Distil Union.“You know, on this show we talk a lot about living with purpose — slowing down, paying attention, and being intentional about the choices we make every day. Because when we simplify the noise around us, we can better hear what really matters: empathy, connection, and showing up as the best version of ourselves. That’s why I’m genuinely pleased to welcome our newest sponsor, Distil Union. Their philosophy aligns beautifully with what we do here.” “Distil Union creates sleek, thoughtfully designed essentials — wallets, key organizers, phone cases — all built with a ‘less is more’ approach. Their Wally wallets, Ferris key organizers… these are everyday tools that make life easier, cleaner, and calmer. And in that simplicity, there’s space for clarity. There’s space for change.” “As a thank-you to our Inspire Change community, they’re offering 20% off any product with the promo code INSPIRECHANGE. Have a look, try them out, and see how simplifying your day can open the door to something deeper.” Visit distilunion.com and enjoy 20% off any product with promo code INSPIRECHANGE. That's distilunion.com with promo code INSPIRECHANGE at check out.”GRATITUDE MENTIONS & CLOSING -Hello and welcome, We thank YOU for tuning in and promoting positive social change. This makes you a part of Gunter’s efforts in transforming not only men's lives but lives in general and we are grateful you have joined us. This week on the Global Listeners List we see a new placement for #1. We would like to share our gratitude with our listeners in Australia you made it to #1 with the strongest downloads from New South Wales, but look out! The Northern Territory is catching up as our listeners in Alice Springs have brought the outback to a strong player of positive social change.CONGRATULATIONS!!!We also wanted to give a special shout out to our listeners in Philadelphia and York for bringing Pennsylvania to the #6 on the USA ...
    Show More Show Less
    21 mins
No reviews yet