Man In FAQs

Men's Leadership Event

Man In Frequently Asked Questions

Association Forum is launching Man In™: The Men’s Leadership Experience to support healthier, more connected leadership by creating a space for men to reflect, build community, and grow in authenticity, vulnerability, and belonging.

This experience is not about giving men more power or advantage; it is about strengthening the human being first so leaders can show up better for their teams, families, and communities.

It is also additive—not competitive: we remain fiercely committed to Women’s Executive Forum™, Welcoming Environment®, and our broader equity and inclusion efforts.

Equity is not a zero-sum game, and we believe creating space for men’s growth is part of building a more inclusive leadership culture for everyone. We welcome dialogue, feedback, and strong opinions—and we are listening.

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1) What is Man In™?

Association Forum is launching Man In™: The Men’s Leadership Experience—a day-long immersive leadership lab focused on connection, wellness, and growth.

2) What is it designed to do?

It’s designed to foster connection, strengthen wellbeing, and support the evolving leadership needs of men with an intentional space for community, reflection, and practical leadership development.

3) Why the name “Man In™”?

“Man In” signals commitment and presence—the decision to step in, show up, and engage fully in growth as a leader and as a human being.

4) Is this a traditional leadership conference?

No. It’s an immersive, highly interactive lab. The event is being built for real conversation, real connection, and real growth—including facilitated dialogue, guided reflection, peer connection, and practical leadership development.

5) Why now?

AF is working with the advisory group and the broader community to build a resource center for this event. Many men report increased isolation, pressure, and uncertainty, and the need is urgent. The website cites research indicators, including:

  • 25% of U.S. men ages 15–35 reporting loneliness for much of the previous day
  • 15% of men reporting no close friends (fivefold increase since 1990)
  • $406B annual cost of workplace loneliness to U.S. businesses

6) Is this about giving men more power?

No. As stated on the webpage: “This isn’t about giving men more power… It’s about giving men permission to lead with authenticity, vulnerability, and a renewed sense of belonging.”

7) How does this align with Welcoming Environment® and inclusion?

The webpage includes an “Addressing Equity and Inclusion” section with clear guardrails: this experience complements—not replaces— ongoing investment in Women’s Executive Forum™ and Welcoming Environment® work; it supports healthier leadership, not hierarchy; and equity isn’t zero-sum.

8) Are women allowed to attend?

Yes. All are welcome. The experience is designed for men’s leadership development. The content is designed to support men, while the environment remains inclusive.

9) When is it?

Save the Date: September 17, 2026. Additional details (location, faculty, registration) will be shared in the coming months.

10) How can I stay informed or share feedback?

You can Sign Up for Updates on the page, or use Share Your Feedback. We welcome all opinions and feedback. We are listening and will follow up directly.

11) Who is shaping the experience?

The webpage notes that Man In™ is being shaped by a high-powered advisory group of diverse leaders who set the tone and guardrails, with a link to meet them.