Ann Landers For Men

“Ann Landers” was a syndicated advice column for 56 years.  Though written by two different women – Ruth Crowley (1943-1955) and “Eppie” Lederer (1955-2002) – the column, published in almost every newspaper throughout the country, was a national institution and cultural icon. Less known was Asa Baber. Baber wrote an influential column called “Men” in Playboy Magazine. Though he died in 2003, Baber left behind an inspirational body of literary work, much of it defining and advocating for the inner lives of men.

Ann LandersI want to combine these influences in the form of an advice column. MAN2MAN. No holds barred; all topics welcome: relationships, sex, dating, divorce, work, play… But updated to the 21st century. Which means incorporating all that we now know about men’s work from pioneers like Cliff Barry and shadow work, Robert Bly and mythopoesis, Robert Moore and archetypal energies, Joseph Campbell and the hero’s journey… Will it be New Agey? No. Will it incorporate what are considered to be new age ideas, yes.

But it will always be grounded in everyday social and personal realities. I will bring my own frailties, mistakes, and lessons learned to every conversation, prefacing “what you might do” with “what’s worked for me.”

We know that fear is not an effective long-term motivational tool. So I won’t seek to make you afraid of repercussions for making the wrong choices. The emphasis will be on inspiration. Invoking men’s highest qualities is the best way to promote good behavior. Calling men to their greatness is the best way to instill leadership. Will there be humor? Yes. Will there be irreverence? Yes. Will there be compassion? Yes.

How can we as men maintain joyful, healthy living in the face of coming environmental, social, and economic collapse? We’ll learn together what my 20 years of men’s work and studies, my 30 years of Buddhist practice and studies, and my 60 years of life experience have to teach.

Asa Baber Poem

Each man is my Father
Each man is my Brother
Each man is my Son

Each man is my Leader
Each man is my Teacher
Each man is my Mirror

I will always remember it
I will always honor it
I will always accept it

My pledge is to men
To their safety and growth

My work is for men
And life is my goal


Dear Frederick:
Write to [email protected] to submit your letter. All sources kept anonymous and confidential. Now more than ever the world needs the mature masculine!

PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT an advice Hotline. Your anonymous question will be provided a response from Frederick Marx in a short period of time on our website. So check back regularly!