ManTalks tackle masculine stereotypes to help build better men

While its catchy name may conjure up visions of cigars, grunts and a "men only" sign on the door, the founder of ManTalks says that's far from what he's trying to accomplish.

"What we're really out to do is create a space of positive masculinity and help men become better fathers, better husbands and better business leaders," said Vancouver's Connor Beaton.

As it turns out, a lot of guys are interested in becoming better men.

Hundreds of men, and some women, paid nearly $100 each to attend Saturday's ManTalks half-day event, The Power of Greatness, in downtown Vancouver.

The series has been described as TED talks meets Oprah but targeted towards men.

Beaton, a 32-year-old Vancouver resident, founded ManTalks after overcoming depression and addiction when he was in his twenties.

"I found myself in a space where I had isolated myself to the degree that I had nobody to reach out to support me or help, at least that's how I felt," said Beaton, recognizing he had loving family and friends.

"I felt isolated and my pride and ego got in the way where I couldn't ask for support."

He said he later discovered he wasn't the only one struggling with loneliness  — his best friend admitted to attempting suicide but never told anyone until Beaton opened up to him first.

Beaton believes part of the challenge for men is the expectation they need to be "really macho" and maintain a stoic appearance. 

Years later, he decided to tackle the glossy veneer of those stereotypes with ManTalks.

"That called me into action," he said. "To pull the curtain aside ... so that both men and women can see what's going on behind the armour that we put on everyday to bolster ourselves."

That means blog posts with titles like "How should a man be at 30?" and "The Sweet Spot for Modern Masculinity." 

Key to ManTalks are also events, open to people of all genders, where well-recognized speakers and business leaders delve into issues like fatherhood, relationships, gratitude and happiness.

After Saturday's event, his team will be expanding the conversation with talks in Toronto and Los Angeles.