Finding Aliveness: A Conversation with Breakthrough for Men’s Executive Director

On the Greater Than 0% Podcast, Executive Director Arnold Westphal shares the mission and heart behind Breakthrough for Men: “Men supporting men to uncover aliveness and lead more fulfilling lives.” Unlike programs that “fix” or “teach,” Breakthrough focuses on creating a space where men can share, listen, and learn together—building tools for authenticity, deeper relationships, and a stronger sense of purpose.

Arnold’s journey to this work began in his late forties, during a period of questioning and disconnection. Seeking meaning, he found the Breakthrough community in Monterey and discovered a powerful approach to personal growth: fostering connection with oneself and others.

Through experiential workshops and peer support, Breakthrough empowers men to embrace life with greater presence and vitality.

This work serves love. When men are lifted, I am lifted, too.

Thanks, breakthrough for inviting me with the tools and the safe environment for me to work on becoming my true self.

I wanna thank all the guys at Breakthrough, especially Larry and Chris, for helping me develop my path toward a more compassionate and joyful life. So thank you guys.

Breakthrough has allowed me to reclaim my worthiness. Thank you. Breakthrough.

Thank you. Breakthrough for providing a venue every week for me to work on being the best man I can be.

Breakthough has created a space that allows men to grow and thrive.

Be a better man, father, partner, and friend

With each new session there’s new men that come in wanting to grow and change, and they inspire me.

Thank you Breakthrough for giving me the tools to be the best man I could be

Thank you for reminding me to breathe, Breakthough, even when the waves get big.

In zoom everybody gets a front-row seat

I get to have the amazing experience of being present as other men experience their own personal breakthroughs

Breakthrough has allowed to me shed the burdens that were not mine to carry

“Breakthrough gives the tools and safe environment needed to become your true self. With the support of the community — you can find a path to greater compassion and joy. Breakthrough can help reclaim your worth and provide a space every week to become the best man you can be.”

Meet the incredible Breakthrough presenters

Hear all about Breakthrough from the men who lead and volunteer.

Arnold Westphal, now Executive Director of Breakthrough receives his volunteer of the year award in 2020

Hear from the executive directors in 2020 about Breakthrough, it’s response to COVID, and the new found ability to serve men anywhere

Hear the incredible wisdom of John Hain, a Breakthrough graduate and incredible presenter

For nearly four decades, BREAKTHROUGH MEN’S COMMUNITY has been a safe space for men to heal, grow, and reclaim their humanity. Founded in 1987 by Fred Jealous, the program challenges harmful male role conditioning and offers tools for building healthy relationships, authentic connections, and a spiritual foundation for life. Through workshops, peer-led groups, and community support, over 3,000 men have taken part in this transformative journey—creating lives marked by honesty, compassion, and purpose.