There is no doubt in my mind that we, as a nation (and, across the world) are facing a moral confusion if not a complete moral crisis. And, unless righteous, bold men step up to the plate, we’ll continue to see the moral decay of everything we love from our favorite institutions, to our families, and our neighborhoods, and even the threat of losing this great nation. That isn’t hyperbole.
Today, I am joined by John Lovell, founder of Warrior Poet Society and former Army Ranger to discuss what we as men can do about it. We talk about mercy and justice (and, how to satisfy both), why we should hate injustice, the dangers of communism and socialism, why we must unite behind Truth (with a capital T), why “happiness” is inferior to “joy,” and why we should pursue peace if possible but truth at all costs.
John Lovell is a former Army Ranger, combat veteran, pastor and the founder of the Warrior Poet Society—a global movement devoted to virtuous leadership, self-mastery, and responsible masculinity. After serving in elite special operations units and deploying to some of the world’s most volatile environments, John transitioned into a new mission: helping men become protectors, providers, and leaders in their homes and communities. Through his books (The Warrior Poet Way and his newest book, The Lions of Mercer, and his wife, Rebekah’s book, Boyhood Resurrected), training programs, and massive online platform, he merges warrior virtues with emotional intelligence.
Beyond his military and tactical expertise, John is a husband, father, author, and mentor who believes that strength without love is brutality—and love without strength is weakness.
As 2025 winds down, men, you should be ruthlessly auditing your life—figuring out what worked, what failed, and what needs to be cut loose. This can be a season to get brutally honest about the habits, relationships, and excuses that held you back. Review your finances, shore up your leadership at home, recommit to your physical standards, and acknowledge the places you drifted instead of acted. We thrive on direction, not chaos, so closing out the year with a written plan, a clear mission, and a defined set of non-negotiables ensures you start 2026 with momentum rather than the regret many men experience year over year.From there, focus on execution, not just reflection. Build systems now that your future self can’t sabotage: simplified routines, time-blocked work, tightened social circles, and challenges that force growth rather than comfort. Use the final weeks of the year to deepen your relationships with your family, fortify your brotherhood, and position yourself to lead with strength in the new year. If you want help and brotherhood along the way with proven system to launch you into the best year of your life, join us at www.orderofman.com/ironcouncil.
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