Men The Podcast

Hosted by Michael Baruti

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116

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Aug 2026

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About the show

One of the major barriers to men addressing and tackling the challenges they face is the fact that discussion of mental health is largely taboo for Tanzanian men. They’re not expected to open up and talk about their struggles with life. Every two weeks (Fortnightly), on Wednesdays Michael Baruti and Nadia Ahmed present an episode that will discuss the challenges that men go through and offer detailed insight on mental health for men. If you’re interested in Mental Health and are interested in unpacking and unlearning mental health for men in Tanzania, this podcast is exactly what you need

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60 recent

September 10, 2026Episode 1181 hr 53 min

Pesa Na Presha Yake

Pesa na Presha Yake Tunza pesa, pesa ikutunze : A conversation on financial discipline and men's mental health Money brings its own kind of pressure “presha” that many men carry silently, rarely naming it as a mental health issue in its own right. In this episode, host Michael Baruti opens up that conversation with real, lived experience and expert insight. At the center of the discussion is Freddy Mbunda , a banker with over 10 years in the industry, who turned his own struggles with money into something bigger: Pesaplan , a platform built to help everyday people escape the cycle of financial stress by building real financial discipline. Pesaplan isn't theory, it's shaped directly by Freddy's personal journey, offering practical tools and structure for people who want to take control of their money instead of being controlled by it. Joining him is his friend, partner, and strategist behind the platform, Syakaa William , who brings the bigger-picture thinking behind turning financial prudence into a sustainable, everyday practice. Rounding out the conversation is Nadia Ahmed , our resident counselor and in-house mental health expert, who connects the dots between financial pressure and emotional wellbeing, helping listeners see “presha” not as weakness, but as a signal worth addressing. Together, they unpack how financial discipline for your pesa isn't just about numbers , it’s a form of self-care, discipline, and ultimately, freedom. In this episode: What “presha” really looks like when it comes to money and men's mental health Freddy's journey from banking to building Pesaplan How Pesaplan helps people build lasting financial discipline Syakaa's perspective on strategy and sustainable financial habits Nadia's mental health lens on financial stress and emotional wellbeing Why tunza pesa, pesa ikutunze is more than a saying. it's a mindset Support the show Instagram: @menthepodcast YouTube @menthepodcast X: @menthepodcast TikTok: @menthepodcast

August 26, 2026Episode 1171 hr 56 min

Jenga Ufanisi. Kuwa Bora

What does it really mean to become a great man? In this episode of Men Men Men, Michael Baruti sits down with Princely Glorious for a deep conversation about the importance of building competency “ufanisi” as a man. We explore why becoming competent is about much more than being good at your job or making money. It is about developing the knowledge, skills, discipline, judgment and emotional maturity to navigate life, take responsibility, build meaningful relationships and show up for the people who matter. But the pursuit of competence can also have a darker side. We unpack how the pressure on men to always be strong, successful, independent and in control can feed into toxic masculinity and what it looks like to pursue growth without losing vulnerability, connection and humanity. The conversation takes us into curiosity and parenting, exploring why teaching children to ask questions, experiment, challenge assumptions and learn from failure may be one of the most valuable forms of competency we can give them. We also explore the four masculine archetypes: The King, Warrior, Magician and Lover and how leadership, courage, wisdom and connection can help us become more complete and balanced men. At its heart, this is a conversation about the lifelong work of becoming better. Because being a man isn't about having all the answers. It's about continually building the capacity t Support the show Instagram: @menthepodcast YouTube @menthepodcast X: @menthepodcast TikTok: @menthepodcast

June 19, 2026Episode 1161 hr 40 min

Nikki ni Good Boy

Most people know Nikki wa Pili as a rapper, entrepreneur, family man, and now a District Commissioner. But behind the titles, achievements, and public image is a man whose journey began not with a dream of becoming a rapper, but with a young man growing up in poverty in Daraja Mbili, Arusha, simply trying to find his way in life. In this candid and thought-provoking conversation, Nikki reflects on his journey from those early days in Arusha to becoming one of Tanzania's most respected creatives and public servants. From the streets of Daraja Mbili to rap stages, from business ventures to boardrooms, and eventually into public office, he shares how a life he never planned for unfolded step by step, opening doors he never imagined. At the heart of this conversation is a powerful message: fame is not the same as success. While many people spend their lives chasing recognition and validation, Nikki explains why true success is measured by purpose, impact, family, character, and service to others. He opens up about how his understanding of success has evolved over the years and why some of life's most meaningful achievements happen far away from the spotlight. The conversation explores manhood, fatherhood, leadership, relationships, purpose, and the responsibilities that come with growth. Nikki speaks candidly about the mistakes that shaped him, the pressures men carry, and the ongoing journey of becoming a better husband, father, leader, and citizen. How does a young man growing up in poverty in Daraja Mbili, Arusha, who never dreamed of becoming a rapper, end up becoming one of Tanzania's most influential creatives, a successful entrepreneur, and eventually a District Commissioner? And what happens when you realize that fame is not the destination, but merely one chapter in a much bigger story? Tune in and find out. Because men need spaces to talk too. Support the show Instagram: @menthepodcast YouTube @menthepodcast X: @menthepodcast TikTok: @menthepodcast

June 3, 2026Episode 1151 hr 32 min

Jifunze Kutulia

Meet Black X, one of Tanzania’s most celebrated music video directors, a man whose confidence is as bold as his creativity, and someone who genuinely believes he is the GOAT of his craft. But before the fame, the awards, and the iconic visuals, he was simply Erick a young boy growing up in rural Tanzania, dreaming of one day making something extraordinary of himself. In this episode, Black X takes us on a deeply personal journey through his life. He reflects on his childhood in the village, his school years, the unwavering belief that he would become a successful rapper, and the unexpected path that led him to become one of the most influential visual storytellers in the country. This conversation goes beyond music videos and success. It is a candid discussion about ambition, self-belief, discipline, and the realities of navigating life as a man. Black X shares the lessons he has learned through both victories and setbacks, revealing why he believes that one quality has been more valuable than any talent or opportunity: patience. According to Black X, if there is one thing every man should pray for, it is the ability to remain calm. Whether life is going your way or falling apart, whether you are at the peak of success or struggling through your lowest moments, learning to stay composed can be the difference between growth and destruction. His message is simple but powerful: “Jifunze Kutulia” Learn to Stay Calm. Filled with laughter, honesty, wisdom, and unforgettable stories, this episode offers a rare look into the man behind the brand and delivers lessons that every man can apply to his own journey. This is more than a conversation about success. It is a conversation about becoming the kind of man who can handle success, failure, pressure, and uncertainty with grace. Tune in for an inspiring, entertaining, and thought-provoking episode that is guaranteed to leave you with something to reflect on long after it ends. Support the show Instagram: @menthepodcast YouTube @menthepodcast X: @menthepodcast TikTok: @menthepodcast

May 14, 2026Episode 1141 hr 9 min

Ardhi: Uwekezaji Wa Kweli au Peer Pressure?

In this episode, we sit down with Emilian Rwejuna, Managing Director of Viwanja Tanzania, to unpack one of the biggest silent pressures facing men today. Owning land. From “kila mwanaume lazima awe na kiwanja” to WhatsApp groups pushing plots every week, is buying land truly a smart investment… or are many men just giving in to peer pressure? We dive into the reality behind land ownership in Tanzania. The gaps in knowledge, the risks people don’t talk about, and the assumptions that drive rushed decisions. Emilian breaks down what men should know before buying, where most go wrong, and whether land is really the must-have asset it’s made out to be. If you’ve ever felt the pressure to buy a plot or you’re already in the game but unsure if you made the right move this conversation is for you. Support the show Instagram: @menthepodcast YouTube @menthepodcast X: @menthepodcast TikTok: @menthepodcast

April 14, 2026Episode 1131 hr 47 min

Maisha Siyo Nukta, Ni Koma.

Life is not a full stop. It’s a comma. But for many men, it doesn’t always feel that way. In this episode of Men Men Men , we sit down with Sebastian Mwaikambo for a deep and honest conversation about masculinity, emotional pressure, and the silent battles men face every day. From his journey in media to leadership and now marketing, Sebastian brings a unique perspective on what it means to be a man in today’s world. Together with psychologist Nadia, we go beyond surface-level conversations and explore the mental and emotional realities of men, the pressure to stay strong, the fear of vulnerability, and the difference between being emotionally in control and emotionally shut down. This episode asks difficult but necessary questions: What do men do with what they feel? Who do they turn to when things are not okay? And at what point does silence become dangerous? Because sometimes, what looks like strength… is just survival. This is a conversation about identity, healing, and the courage to continue even when life feels like it’s coming to an end. Because maisha siyo nukta. Ni koma. Support the show Instagram: @menthepodcast YouTube @menthepodcast X: @menthepodcast TikTok: @menthepodcast

March 25, 202647 min

FGM Itaisha Wanaume Wakiamua

In this powerful live episode of Men Men Men, recorded in Monduli before an audience of over 200 people, we confront one of the most sensitive and deeply rooted issues in our communities: Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). This is not a conversation about blame, it is a conversation about responsibility. Bringing together Dr. Gwajima (Minister for Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups), a courageous FGM survivor, a male anti-FGM champion, a mental health expert, and voices from the community, this episode goes beyond awareness. It challenges men to reflect on their role in either sustaining or ending the practice. Through raw, honest, and at times uncomfortable dialogue, we explore: The hidden mental and emotional impact of FGM How silence from men allows harmful practices to continue The connection between trauma, relationships, and family life What it truly means to be a man who protects rather than preserves harm And the urgent question: If not men, then who will stop this? This is Men Men Men at its core, real conversations, real accountability, real change. Because FGM will not end with policies alone. It will end when men decide: “Not in my family. Not in my name. Not in my generation.” Support the show Instagram: @menthepodcast YouTube @menthepodcast X: @menthepodcast TikTok: @menthepodcast

February 17, 2026Episode 11147 min

Uwanaume Wa Kweli Ni Maamuzi

In this special live edition of Men Men Men – The Podcast , hosted by Michael Baruti and Nadia Ahmed , a powerful community conversation unfolds from Mnazi Mmoja Grounds in Zanzibar, bringing together hundreds of voices across generations. The topic is urgent and necessary: Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and more importantly, the role men must play in preventing it. Through honest dialogue, expert insight, and live audience participation, this episode explores: Why violence doesn’t begin with a punch but with beliefs, control, and silence How unaddressed trauma and emotional repression in men can escalate into harm The role culture and community systems play in sustaining or challenging abuse Practical, everyday actions men can take to become accountable and proactive allies This is not a conversation about blaming men, It is a conversation about responsibility, courage, and transformation. If men are responsible for much of the harm, then men must also be central to the solution. Recorded live in front of a diverse audience in Zanzibar, this episode reflects the urgency of creating safer communities through dialogue, accountability, and action. This episode was made possible with the support of the European Union, advancing efforts toward dignity, equality, and safer communities for all. Listen. Reflect. Act. #MenMenMen #EndGBV #HealthyMasculinity #Zanzibar Support the show Instagram: @menthepodcast YouTube @menthepodcast X: @menthepodcast TikTok: @menthepodcast

February 3, 2026Episode 1101 hr 42 min

Ni Majaribu Tu, Maisha Lazima Yaendelee

Life works in strange ways. Sometimes adversity doesn’t just test us, it completely reshapes how we see ourselves, our purpose, and what’s possible. In this episode, we sit down with Hussein Ally Hussein , a man whose life story challenges everything we think we know about limitation and resilience. Hussein was born with sight, lost it, and later regained it but his journey didn’t stop there. Along the way, he had to completely relearn how to navigate the world, transforming from a “typical” learning path to relying on Braille throughout his academic life. From being publicly doubted by his own teacher, to battling dyslexia, to losing opportunities simply because of his disability, Hussein has faced rejection, frustration, and moments that could have easily broken his spirit. Yet, in a powerful twist, the very challenges that once held him back became the catalyst for his growth, his success, and his mission. Today, he is creating space, opportunity, and visibility for others who share similar experiences. Hussein’s story is a masterclass in resilience. The kind most men are called to develop. It reminds us that the obstacles we face are not signs to stop, but signals to adapt, push harder, and redefine our path forward. Brothers, this is not a story of sympathy or pity. This is a real conversation about determination, grit, and the inner drive required to take the first steps toward building something meaningful, no matter the odds. Support the show Instagram: @menthepodcast YouTube @menthepodcast X: @menthepodcast TikTok: @menthepodcast

January 15, 2026Episode 10955 min

2026: We Are Doing Better

We are baaaaaack and Happy New Year, 2026! The first episode of the year is finally here. This latest episode of MenMenMen The Podcast serves as both a curtain-raiser for 2026 and a moment of reflection on how the year ended. Michael and Nadia are back behind the mic together for the first time since October 2025. In an open and honest conversation, they unpack the mental health challenges that followed October 29th in Tanzania, while also looking ahead to what 2026 could and should be for themselves, the podcast, and the MenMenMen community. It’s a light but deeply reflective episode, filled with wisdom nuggets on navigating life after October 29th, rebuilding and strengthening our relationship with God, what it truly means for men to lead in this season, the power of men supporting one another, and why empathy must be at the center of everything we do. Calm, thoughtful, and grounding, this episode is the perfect way to ease into the new year. MenMenMen The Podcast is baaaaack. Press play and enjoy the conversation. #MentalHealthTanzania #AfricanPodcasts #HealthyMasculinity #FaithAndMentalHealth #EmpathyInLeadership #MenMenMenPodcast #MensMentalHealth #MentalHealthMatters #MenSupportingMen Support the show Instagram: @menthepodcast YouTube @menthepodcast X: @menthepodcast TikTok: @menthepodcast

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