Dare to be Different with Craig White
Delve into the stories of sporting champions, corporate visionaries, and everyday parents who redefine leadership.
In each episode, I explore the journeys of leaders who have undergone profound transformations, emerging stronger and wiser. From overcoming challenges to embracing change, our guests share insights and lessons learned along their paths to success.
Tune in and discover what it takes to lead with authenticity and courage in every aspect of life.
Dare to be Different with Craig White
S2E11: Keith McGuinnes - When ‘Healthy’ Is Just Another Mask
The diagnosis that changed everything: Keith McGuinnes on cancer, masculinity, and the power of receiving
What happens when a fit, healthy yoga teacher steeped in Eastern practices, meditation and spiritual growth is suddenly diagnosed with cancer?
In this episode, I sit down with Keith McGuinnes, founder of Awaken Intimacy and co-founder of The Open Institute, to explore how a life-threatening illness forced him to stop pushing, start receiving, and finally open to the deeper lessons of intimacy, vulnerability and connection.
We talk about:
- The shock of receiving a cancer diagnosis at 40
- Why he chose chemotherapy (even as a holistic health practitioner)
- How the experience broke his lone wolf mentality
- The power of receiving love
- What men are missing when they stay stuck in hyper-masculinity
- His work today helping men and couples reclaim intimacy, polarity and presence
This is a raw, real and powerful conversation about grief, grace, and growing up.
Show Notes
Keith’s Cancer Diagnosis
- What happened at age 40 and the symptoms he ignored
- Why chemo was the right choice (even as a long-time yogi)
- How the experience forced him to slow down, reflect, and receive
The Emotional Journey
- Grieving the years he couldn’t receive love
- Learning to express emotion and let people in
- How it shifted his relationship to his own body and energy
Masculinity, Polarity and Intimacy
- The trap of hyper-masculine giving and the strength in receiving
- Letting go of lone wolf energy in favour of connection
- Why true intimacy requires openness — not just strength
Post-Cancer Purpose
- Moving from survival to service
- Keith’s work through Awaken Intimacy and The Open Institute
- Building community, relational depth, and sacred spaces in modern life