ManTalks tackle masculine stereotypes to help build better men

While itscatchy name may conjure up visions of cigars, gruntsand a "men only"sign on the door, the founder of ManTalkssays that's farfrom whathe'strying 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'sConnorBeaton.

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

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

The series has been described as TED talks meets Oprahbuttargeted towardsmen.

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 hadloving 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 discoveredhe wasn't the only one strugglingwith loneliness his best friend admitted to attemptingsuicide but never told anyone until Beaton opened up to him first.

Beatonbelieves part of the challenge for menis the expectation they need to be "really macho" and maintain a stoic appearance.

Years later, he decided to tackle the glossy veneer of thosestereotypes withManTalks.

"That called me into action," he said. "Topull 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 alsoevents,open to people of all genders, wherewell-recognized speakers and business leadersdelve intoissues like fatherhood, relationships, gratitude and happiness.

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