Tony J. Smith is a dedicated Logistics Officer in the United States Army, currently serving with the Soldier Recovery Unit at Fort Cavazos, TX. A proud graduate of West Point and 2019 Class President, Tony has held various leadership roles, including Rugby Team Captain, Fuel and Water Platoon Leader, and Battalion S4. As a passionate Mental Health Advocate, he hosts the Man Down Podcast, where he encourages men to embrace vulnerability and break free from toxic masculinity. Through his work, Tony aims to spread awareness and foster open conversations about mental health. Join him on this journey toward healing and growth.
Tony J. Smith, Mental Health Advocate | Motivational Speaker
Please tell us more about you.
Tony J. Smith, born in Houston, TX, and raised in Katy, just outside of Houston, had a supportive upbringing. Raised by his parents, Tony and Angela Smith, who ensured he had every opportunity to succeed, Tony is the youngest in the family, with an older sister named Maya.
Growing up, Tony was taught the values of earning everything and expecting nothing. Katy, known for its world-class education and exceptional athletic programs, provided him with a solid foundation. Throughout his early childhood and adolescence, Tony was deeply involved in church, community service, and sports.
During high school, he honed his focus on both academics and athletics, which led to him being selected to attend Texas Boys State and receiving an appointment to the United States Military Preparatory School. This eventually paved the way for his attendance at the United States Military Academy.
Tony is an empath, a hardworking individual, and a team-oriented person who prioritizes what is best for the collective group. His resilience shines through, especially as he has persevered through six or more surgeries over the past five years, pushing through each one with determination. Currently, Tony is transitioning out of the military to pursue a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, aiming to contribute to addressing the ongoing global mental health crisis. He is a leader, a lover, and a fighter.
Tell us about your greatest career achievement so far.
Leading my squad to a first-place finish in the Best Soldier Competition for our Battalion is my greatest achievement. This experience was more than just a competition; it tested our resilience, character, and leadership. Initially, we faced significant challenges, as our squad was often overlooked due to the Battalion's past reputation and performance. Determined to change that narrative, we focused on unity and commitment during every training session, building trust and honing our skills.
As the competition unfolded, we encountered rigorous mental and physical challenges that pushed us to our limits. In moments of doubt and fatigue, the true spirit of my squad emerged. We rallied together, encouraging one another to persevere, demonstrating that leadership is about fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered.
Our hard work paid off when we secured the first-place finish, marking a collective triumph that established a new standard for our Battalion. This achievement taught me that success is not just about victory, but about the journey, lessons learned, and connections forged along the way. I carry this experience with me as a reminder that true strength lies in unity and the courage to overcome challenges.
What is your business name and how do you help your clients?
The Man Down Podcast is a movement to help men break free from toxic masculinity, embrace vulnerability, and truly man up by expressing their emotions. Whether you're a veteran, an athlete, or a man struggling in silence, I’m here to help you navigate your mental health journey.
We do this through a 3 step process.
The "Man Down Method" – A 3-Step Process to Emotional Strength & Healing
Recognize – Acknowledge the struggles and break free from the toxic "man up" mindset. Understand that vulnerability is strength, not weakness.
Release – Learn to express emotions in a healthy way, whether through therapy, community, or self-reflection. Let go of past trauma and embrace healing.
Rise – Step into your full potential as a stronger man, leader, father, and brother. Use your growth to uplift others and set a new standard for masculinity.
The structured approach of the "Man Down Method" offers a clear pathway for individuals seeking to navigate their emotions and improve their mental health. This has been my personal journey to a clearer headspace and more self-awareness. Life will still throw its’ difficulties at us, but how we respond is the most important thing in a terrible or inconvenient situation.
What inspired you to create your company name?
The inspiration behind creating The Man Down Podcast stems from a profound personal journey and a deep desire to address the mental health challenges faced by men. After undergoing years of therapy and participating in a partial hospitalization program, I’ve gained valuable insights into my own struggles with mental health and relationships. My experiences highlighted the critical need for open discussions about vulnerability and emotional expression among men.
Moreover, witnessing the suffering of men in relationships, coupled with seeing women endure severe traumas such as domestic violence, sexual assault, and harassment, fueled my passion for change. These experiences underscored the importance of creating a safe space where men can break free from the constraints of toxic masculinity and learn that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. This dual perspective—addressing both men's mental health issues and supporting women's experiences—has shaped the mission of the podcast, aiming to foster healing and understanding within the community.
What specific goals/vision do you aim to achieve?
My specific goals with the Podcast and overall vision is centered around Mental Health Awareness, specifically Men’s Mental Health.
Grow Audience Reach: Increase monthly downloads or listeners by 20% over the next six months.
Monetize the Podcast: Secure a sponsor or start offering paid content by the end of the year.
Improve Content Quality: Increase the production quality, including audio, editing, and guest appearances, within the next three months.
If you could change one thing about your industry, what would it be and why?
If I could change one significant aspect of the mental health industry, it would be to address and dismantle the gendered stigma surrounding mental health. Men, in particular, face immense societal pressure to conform to ideals of masculinity that dictate they should “toughen up.” This expectation often leads them to suppress their emotions and avoid seeking help for mental health struggles. As a result, many suffer in silence, which can exacerbate their issues and lead to severe consequences.
On the other hand, women frequently encounter their mental health concerns being dismissed or belittled. Issues such as domestic violence, sexual harassment, sexual assault, and rape are often overlooked, with victims unjustly labeled as “crying wolf.” This dismissive attitude not only undermines their legitimate experiences but also creates barriers for others who may wish to speak out about their struggles.
Mental health is a global crisis that impacts everyone—children, adults, and the elderly—regardless of gender. By fostering an environment where individuals feel safe to express their struggles without fear of judgment or stigma, we can encourage open dialogue and understanding. Addressing these gendered aspects of stigma is essential for achieving better mental health outcomes for all individuals, promoting healing and resilience across the board.
For readers inspired by this conversation and eager to start their journey, what first steps would you recommend?
For readers who feel inspired by this conversation and are eager to embark on their mental health journey, the first step I recommend is to reach out and initiate a conversation. Taking that first step can often feel daunting, but it’s essential for starting the healing process. By connecting with someone who understands the challenges you're facing, you can gain valuable insight and guidance tailored to your situation.
I encourage you to contact me at divinein2ervention@gmail.com.
Together, we can explore your unique experiences and identify the right direction for your journey. Remember, healing begins with introspection and the courage to seek help. It’s important to acknowledge that you don’t have to navigate this path alone. Opening up about your struggles and seeking support is not a sign of weakness; rather, it’s a powerful step towards growth and emotional well-being.
You deserve to find peace and fulfillment in your life. Let’s work together to help you look within and uncover the strength you have to overcome obstacles, embrace vulnerability, and ultimately rise into your full potential.
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