Stories

In their own words.

Members describe what they experienced through retreat, integration, connection, and the life that followed.

From Isolation to Connection

Hear members describe their experiences of retreat, integration, connection, and the life that followed.

Featured film
10 min
“After searching for the extraordinary, I fell in love with the mundane.”
Woman in her 40s · Women of Sovereignty

In their own voices

Nine films · more coming
Breaking Old Patterns — Healing, Brotherhood & TransformationMan in his 40s
Transforming Grief, Finding Hope & BrotherhoodMan in his 30s
The Most Impactful Spiritual Moment of My Life — From Combat to ClarityMan in his 30s
From Numbing to Thriving — A Journey of TransformationMan in his 40s
He Quit Drinking and Found Hope — A Retreat That Changed EverythingMan in his 50s
Rewriting My Story — From Control to Connection & Self-LoveMan in his 60s
Returning for More — A Father's Path to Healing & ConnectionMan in his 60s
From Holding It All In to Letting It All Go — A Journey to True StrengthMan in his 60s
Saying Goodbye, Finding Peace — Reconnecting with My Father's SpiritMan in his 30s

Written testimonials

42 accounts total

These are individual experiences shared in participants’ own words. Experiences vary, and UAF does not promise a particular medical, psychological, relationship, or substance-use outcome. UAF programs are spiritual offerings and are not a substitute for medical, psychological, psychiatric, or addiction treatment.

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🌹 Women of SovereigntyWoman in her 40s
"After searching for the extraordinary, I fell in love with the mundane."

Naturally, I anticipated a grand mansion, organic meals, and elaborate ceremonies — the typical hallmarks of a retreat. But I never expected the incredible people who cared for me when I temporarily lost my mind. What I found went far beyond a mere sense of community; it was a profound testament to human kindness and genuine transformation.

I came in thinking my ego had been conquered long ago. I was completely mistaken. For moments that seemed to stretch into eternity, I was stripped of my title, my achievements, my pain, my past, and my future — there was only pure being. It was both exquisite and terrifying, the ultimate humbling of my life.

In my darkest moments of fear and confusion, the facilitators stepped in with quiet, unpretentious compassion. No grand speeches, just pure, grounding kindness. Their non-judgmental presence was, in itself, a crucial part of the healing.

Just hours after leaving, sitting at a McDonald's with my teenage son, I realized the true magic of this shift. No desperate search for spiritual symbols, no pressure to perform gratitude. Just french fries, laughter, and the simple beauty of connection. I am done treating life as a project; I am ready to live it.

🇺🇸 MOI — VeteransMan in his 30s
"I’ve lost everything a man could lose to due mental health. The facilitators at MOI are all angels."

Where to start. From day 1- everything just felt right. They say when you’re ready, the medicine will call. This trip afforded me the most spiritual experience that I’ve ever had in my entire life. I grew up in a household with alcoholic parents. Very unstable environment. I joined the military and deployed to Iraq as a FMf corpsman( medic for Marines). PTSD is a devious foe. I’ve lost everything a man could lose to due mental health. Family, wife, dogs, homes, cars, self respect, and view on reality. The facilitators at MOI are all angels. Caring, vulnerable, knowledgeable, supportive, and have an amazing ability to help. I’ve sat with medicine before but not like this. It was contained yet relaxed. Structured and seemingly effortless. I showed up with a childlike imagination/ “maybe I can find what I’m looking for”. I had a decent amount of fear leading up to the retreat. As soon as I walked through the door and was greeted by the MOI crew- I knew by the immediate feeling- I WAS SAFE AND EXACTLY WHERE I WAS SUPPOSED TO BE. The location was perfect- super comfortable and in the middle of nature. The ceremonies themselves made me feel connected to every man in the program. I can’t speak highly enough about this program. I thought I was going to let go of some fear and judgement when I showed up to this program. I was selling myself and the experience short. I left with muuuuuuch more than that. I had such a profound experience during my medicine journey. I received some insights that were challenging to arrive to but well worth it. VERY SPIRITUAL. What a blessing and sacred trip this retreat was. I will walk forward and carry with me the connection, the lessons, and insights that I left the trip with. Excited to write the next chapters of my life- genuinely excited about this whole life thing again!!!!

🌈 MOI — Rainbow GBQMan in his 70s
"I left feeling more aligned, more at peace, and with a deeper respect for the body's innate capacity to heal when given the right support."

Attending the March 2026 Rainbow MOI retreat was a deeply restorative and sacred experience for me. The integration of healing plant medicines, Internal family systems work, Japanese Ikigai and the compassionate guidance by the facilitators created an atmosphere of trust where true transformation could unfold. I was especially moved by the way I was encouraged to speak from my depths and to share my life lessons, dreams and aspirations. I feel truly invited to manifest more fully my true nature.

The facilitators brought not only skill and knowledge, but also presence and humble confidence. Their approach to deep healing felt grounded in both wisdom and humble confidence. I experienced a renewed awareness of how the body holds and communicates what the spirit needs for healing.

My fellow attendees unfolded profoundly each in their unique way through the retreat process. I left feeling more aligned, more at peace, and with a deeper respect for the body's innate capacity to heal when given the right support. The retreat reminded me that true medicine is relational, intuitive, and profoundly human.

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 30s
"For the first time in my life, I felt true reassurance."

After finishing the retreat and allowing the following day to settle, it was quite bewildering to look at the experience and moments that occurred the previous days. I am still in the midst of processing everything; however, I came out of feeling loved and reassured of my life (yet a tiny bit fearful but in a good way) despite coming in with countless questions that are now seemingly trivial. The first day was mostly about setting up comfort and familiarity with the group. A bunch of ragtag, lost men coming together to fix their internal issues sounded like a sitcom in my head, but in all seriousness we were all there to better ourselves as men, fathers, brothers, people. The nutrition, setting, and level of comfort were truly outstanding and well accommodated and it allowed me to ease into the purpose of coming to the retreat without worrying about the basic necessities. The second day was quite an interesting day where the deep dive of the medicine took place. I was nowhere near ready for the experience that unfolded beyond my awareness.. To have such an emotional spectrum uncovered within my roots and see the duality of love, harmony, bliss versus pain, anguish, and suffering made me realize the totality and capacity of the human experience was something I never acknowledged as a unified thing.. It was beyond anything I was ready for and it was definitely unexpected and off putting for the moment. However, the vulnerability, acceptance, and support from the group upon sharing the experience was extremely validating. We all shared a moment to recollect fear of the battles we unwillingly, but triumphantly faced. I cannot thank the hosts and facilitators enough with their unconditional support despite losing my sense of self for certain moments of the ceremony. While I am still processing certain moments from this experience, specific things that called to me in the past are now more important for me to accomplish in my life. The third day was probably the most challenging day. I was taught a very powerful lesson to take better care of my body and nourishment. However, in the background of this physical onslaught, something miraculous was occurring as the wavelengths of my mind, heart, and soul gently unified into a singular balance of harmony. In the middle of the night, I woke up and for the first time in my life, I felt true reassurance – self-reassurance that I was doing okay in life and everything would be fine. It was eerily calming and something I shelved long ago as I didn’t believe I deserved it. With that uncovered, I believe I can now work on a better path to self love and worth and allow myself to do good work and provide great purpose to the world around me. I can now genuinely say I deserve certain things and I owe myself to live to my potential capability where I seek to be. The last day itself was truly outstanding. The openness and love of the brotherhood was truly a unification of all the work and the people we met the last few days. To feel stronger, connected, and valued is something I have undying gratitude for. To meet other men that oppose the schemas of what “masculinity should be” strengthened the reassurance I found in myself. To know others out there are doing their best and trying their best is a wonderful sight to see. This community is something I truly want to be a part of, to spread the message, and to help others improve their lives. After doing so much self work the last four or so years of my life and to have it culminate into this experience is something I am extremely appreciative and grateful for and I say that as a strong understatement. If anything I shared here calls to you or helps you, I insist you give yourself that break and allow yourself to heal and get help. I send best wishes to all the people that were a part of this group, and know that experience will remind me to carry it back into my life and spread it where I can with positivity. Aho.

🌹 Women of SovereigntyWoman in her 40s
"I felt supported, held, and free like I never had before."

I have to be honest, I was both nervous and excited for the WOS retreat. My husband and brother experienced MOI, so I had some insight into what to expect. However, this experience was much more than they shared; it was life changing.

The trust was gentle; the connection was authentic. I am finally free to express my deep thoughts and release hidden emotions that I did not know were there. The old pain is surfacing; I'm acknowledging it and releasing it now.

I am so grateful for the leaders who provided the space and opportunity for me to be vulnerable enough to release while also connecting with my heart and soul. I know I have the support of the women in WOS to hold non-judgmental space and love for me throughout my journey of growth.

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 30s
"After five days on the MOI retreat, doing the hard work with a group of men who started out as strangers but became like brothers to me, I was able to glimpse the divine."

I went into this thing not knowing any of the participants, or fully understanding what I was expecting to get out of it. I have had a hard life, I saw a lot of addiction and abuse but somehow managed to drag myself away from all of it and create a new home and a successful career for myself. I didn’t enjoy this for long before both of my parents where taken from me. My fathers passing was the result of hard life of drug abuse, while my mother was a victim of brain cancer. The experience of taking care of my mother as she was dying in palliative care, witnessing her pain and fear in the face of death and being powerless to stop it was something I never thought I would be able to heal from. Being without them I felt so lost and alone. I felt I would carry this crippling pain with me for the rest of my life. Yet after five days on the MOI retreat, doing the hard work with a group of men, who started out as strangers but became like brothers to me, I was able to glimpse the divine, and to find peace and equanimity I thought unattainable. I came to the understanding that my parents were at peace. I realized that all of us came from the eternal and with death would return there, only to be reborn anew, again and again. I can truly say this experience changed my life, that I was freed of this crippling pain I have been carrying all these years, that I am ready to give life my all, that I am ready to be the best partner I can be, and the best father I could be. Mike and Yoni are onto something that is truly on the cutting edge, something that can change the world. It has already started. I hope my story helps you if, you are reading this I want you too know, I love you, and wish the best for you. Aho!

🌈 MOI — Rainbow GBQMan in his 30s
"I was completely blown away by how powerful and healing it was. It truly was magical and like nothing I have ever experienced before."

This was my first MOI retreat and I was completely blown away by how powerful and healing it was. It truly was magical and like nothing I have ever experienced before. My body feels completely renewed and my mind and heart feel in a healthy union in the present moment.

The brotherhood of MOI are genuine, kind, compassionate, empathetic, wise, motivational, and just like the name says they are of high integrity. I left this retreat deeply impacted and changed for the better and I am confident I will continue growing with the support of the MOI brotherhood.

I have also never been to a healing retreat for Gay men and the level of intention put into this healing opportunity really is life changing. I was also surprised how deeply healing it would be for me as a gay man to also receive support, nurturing, and guidance along my healing path from heterosexual identified men in addition to gay men.

If you are on the fence about a healing retreat like this from the bottom of my heart I encourage you to take a leap of faith, jump in, and buckle up for the ride of your life.

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 40s
"As I returned home, I found a new sense of calm and focus in myself that was not there before."

I have been married for 20 years. We have 3 teenage children together, and we have been close to divorcing now for a long time. We tried couple’s therapy and many other strategies over the years, and lockdown really brought our problems to a peak. Our sex life has been quite chaotic and at times absent all together. Our communication together has primarily been frustrated in tone, and distant from our emotions. My wife has been preparing herself mentally for our split, and that has made it more difficult to resolve our problems. My wife insisted on me taking individual steps toward healing and looking at my side of these issues instead of constantly blaming her for the turmoil in our house and marriage. I am not comfortable with the idea of “men’s groups” or more personal therapy, and I honestly am not that interested in reading self-help books that would guide me towards some path toward healing.

The opportunity was presented to me to attend this weekend retreat, and I was still quite hesitant to sign on. Taking time from work is never easy, and I don’t deal well with ultimatums. I am even personal friends with one of the Director’s of the program, and I still was reluctant to take this type of journey. I made a few changes in my schedule, and committed to the retreat to make one last attempt to save my marriage.

I arrived with thoughts of skepticism and a bit of trepidation, as well as a good deal of excitement for this new experience. Michael and Yoni were excellent hosts, and so comforting and welcoming. Their sense of purpose, enthusiasm for helping us, and their deep knowledge quickly alleviated my anxieties. The ceremonies and meditations sessions were very new to me, but I quickly found a comfortable role there, and found more openness within myself than I knew was possible. I have experimented with expanded states in the past, but mostly with the purpose of enjoyment and release. The guided lessons and focus activities that Michael and Yoni showed us, completely changed the type of experience that these expanded states had done to me in the past. I found so much more to learn from and to look for during the journeys. Their guidance completely changed my ability to use that experience for self reflection and introspection. I felt safe during the experiences, and the other men and I were assisted by them several times as the need arose. The pace and timing for the weekend was excellent, allowing us time to recover, reflect, and share our experiences with each other. I left the weekend feeling physically well-nourished, mentally exhausted, and emotionally charged.

As I returned home, I found a new sense of calm and focus in myself that was not there before. My personal intentions are still clearly in my mind, and my new sense of patience and direction has been noticed by both my family members as well as my professional community. Everybody’s life journey is filled with trauma and turmoil. Many of us finally seek to find greater peace and clarity of mind once things hit a boiling point. I needed my wife to threaten divorce to wake me up to my responsibility to heal and respond to the traumas of my past. This weekend retreat was the perfect fit for me to take time to look inside, to focus on my life path, and to explore my mind in ways that I never had before.

I am very thankful to Michael and Yoni for their professionalism and guidance, and I could not recommend their program any more highly. Each Man’s experience will be quite unique. I guarantee that this will help to open your mind to all of the questions and answers that have been keeping you from being your true self. If you are considering signing on even a little bit, I already know that this is going to work for you.

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 40s
"For the first time in decades I remembered who I was. A person filled with love."

Going into the 4-day retreat I was certainly skeptical having only gone on one medicine journey years prior. The medicine tells you when you’re ready and shows you the way. Truly feeling reborn I am so excited to start my new life. A life now for the first time which feels limitless considering what I was able to create and achieve while distracted by the toxicity of alcohol & societal stresses of day to day life. Every man can benefit from the tools gained through enlightened knowledge gained on breath work, meditation, nutrition, proper cohesive hydration, affirmation thinking and energy awareness. And the energy is real. My god I didn’t know just how much energy is in everything…..including myself. This experience allows you to see and tap into that font of energy to show you who you are and what you believe to be the real truth. With no labels you can truly become reborn. I would highly recommend this truly life altering weekend for those who struggle especially with addiction, loss, or anger or in my case those filled with love. The aforementioned is hidden deep within filled with scars and for the first time in decades I remembered who I was. A person filled with love. I am forever reborn anew and so thrilled no longer survive with my wife and young boys, but LIVE with them. SELF = LOVE \ BOOZE = NO LOVE FOR SELF. Earn it! Surrender and do the work. The world around you will thank you for the outcome.

🌈 MOI — Rainbow GBQMan in his 50s
"I never experienced the level of transformation and support that I did on my journey at the Men Of Integrity retreat."

I had done previous work in expanded states and I have been on a path of personal growth and development for more than 20 years. But I never experienced the level of transformation and support that I did on my journey at the Men Of Integrity retreat. The weekend retreat was worth all of my time and investment, and then some.

Yet just as important was the preparedness in the weeks before and the days and weeks following the retreat weekend. The expanded team was all there to help in such profound and beautiful ways, helping me integrate not just what I learned, but also what I felt, and inviting a deep sense of embodiment of who I am and where I belong in this world.

After a lifetime of believing I didn't fit in anywhere, the Men Of Integrity team - along with the support and presence of my fellow participants in travelers - helped me finally feel at home in my body and on this earth.

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 50s
"I had no idea that kind of vulnerability was allowed among men, but it was incredibly liberating."

It’s been less than a week since I returned from a recent MOI retreat and I am still processing everything I learned and experienced. It is without exaggeration that this was the most profound experience of my life. I was already on a journey of self improvement over the past year or so, but it quickly became clear to me I had been playing in the minor leagues. Although the work I had done contributed to my willingness to receive the healing, understanding and acceptance of what I was experiencing, I had no idea I would literally go through a spiritual rebirth. For years I had suppressed deep, emotional pain that I covered up in public with a variety of “masks” to hide what I was really feeling inside and in a single medicine ceremony, all that pain I had been ignoring was released out into the universe and for the very first time in years, I felt peace in my heart that I no longer felt possible. I felt the love of every man there, who was ready and able to lend a hand, share some kind words or just tell me they loved me. I had no idea that kind of vulnerability was allowed among men, but it was incredibly liberating. Even as I write this, I can feel the warm, powerful energy in that house! Whether you are looking for a wholistic transformation or simply want to be a better man for your wife/girlfriend, kids, parents, friends, etc., you will find and receive it at this retreat. Michael and Yoni are seasoned professionals that know what they’re doing. They walk the talk and provide whatever level of comfort or accountability you need to accomplish your goals while there. The forms you will fill-out prior to the retreat are equally as informative to Michael/Yoni as they are to yourself. They will help to draw out what areas need the most attention and therefore will assist you in setting your intent for the trip. The food is outstanding and each day is packed with opportunities to learn ideas and concepts that you may not have previously been exposed to or will reinforce what you have already learned. You will discover that this is an environment where there is zero judgement and an air of openness that invites you to remember who you are! If there is even a whisper inside of you nudging you to go, jump in with both feet! If you come with the right attitude and intent, you will walk away with the answers you were looking for; I did, plus, a hell of a lot of questions I can’t wait to find answers for. Do it! It will change your LIFE! With overwhelming gratitude!

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 30s
"You will get what you need, whatever that may be for you at the moment you arrive."

You will get what you need, whatever that may be for you at the moment you arrive.

The MOI retreat invites you to step fully into what it means to be healthy, what it means to be true to yourself, to your ambitions and to your relationships. You may not realize where you are feeling like you are coming up short in life, you may not be able to put your finger on what it is you need – but the MOI retreat will help you discover the keys.

The questionnaire that was provided did an excellent job pointing and guiding me to where I was coming up short in life, and I did not know what that was until the end of it. Do the questionnaire as fully and completely as you can, as honestly as you can and with real intention of doing hard work on yourself, and you will have a clear picture of why you are there. Even if you don’t you are likely to discover something profound about yourself, but the questionnaire will truly help facilitate the work you do.

Brotherhood will be a strong component, as you go through this together and learn about each other you will come to find amazing friends whom you can trust and allow yourself to be vulnerable with.

I learned a great deal about how to live and eat healthier, which gives me more driving purpose in my daily existence. I took very strong lessons about relationships at home with me, how to be in balance and not just how to repair trust when it is broken but truly recognizing WHEN and HOW it is broken. I feel more equipped than ever to be what I consider the very definition of what it means to be a good, strong, balanced man in our age.

Consider reading every book recommended, before or during or after the retreat -it will truly build upon the work you do here.

🌹 Women of SovereigntyWoman in her 40s
"I accomplished 20 years of therapy in a weekend."

The facilitators met us where we were and demonstrated warmth and support.

I'd recommend this retreat to women who are ready to create real change in their life.

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 40s
"This space and the decision to join this group is the single best choice I have made in my life."

As I sit here writing this, I have a smile in my heart and soul that is as bright as the sun. MOI is the recognized fact that men do not do right by their mental health, and a secure safe space is provided that delivers time to approach masculine divinity from a safe space. You enter into a community with facilitators who have been in the work themselves and are its continuation. I personally recognized the shortcomings in my life come from my poor mental health. This space and the decision to join this group is the single best choice I have made in my life. My closest friends and family have recognized the changes in me and my approach to the world. My coworkers and colleagues now refer to me as their inspiration to approach life and work. The open-hearted ceremonies of men doing work together with knowledgeable facilitators will set you on a path of personal growth inside and out. I found a self-supporting community of brothers who are working together to bring back healthy masculinity into the world. I will be a part of MOI for life. In my future, I see revisiting the process as a customer and supporting this community as a facilitator assistant. If you get the chance to read this review, you are already on your way to making one of your best life decisions as well.

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 30s
"I felt as though I had ascended, that I’d made it to the next level."

The first time I attended MOI, I learned about what I needed to do to become a better man. When I came back for the second time, I had been putting in that work leading up to it. I made a lot of changes, I reflected deeply on myself, and I put in the effort. My time and effort was not only affiremed through the second retreat, but it was celebrated. I felt as though I had ascended, that I’d made it to the next level and that I had built the foundation for even more growth to take place. To challenge myself even further. The growth never stops, and I am so excited to take on this next level. I witnessed brothers achieving incredible transformations, who decided to quit their drinking habits cold turkey. Witnessing their transformations reminded me of why this work is so important. On the outside, we men may appear to have everything and have it all together. The beautiful wife, the wonderful kids, the great job. We may appear to have everything. But even these men with their seemingly perfect lives, if they dare to peer into the shadows of their hearts and selves, they will find something they never knew was there. Something in the way; something preventing them from ascending to the next level of their greatness. MOI is the place where we are given the tools, knowledge, ceremony and ritual to begin that ascension.

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 40s
"I have been pouring into other cups where my own is empty."

MOI, stands for its ethics and the persistence of integrity, starting from its leaders who are fully committed to transfer morals and, most importantly, integrity to us. As we expose our life struggles, no matter how minute or severe they are, this retreat showed me and helped me acknowledge how empty “I WAS”. The help provided is very kind. This is a one-to-one quality service and support. This is a group of men with highly moral ethics with full illustrations that covers the side of man and how important is to respect the female energy and family, illustrations of nutrition and the importance to feed our bodies well for a balance and healthy life. MOI, fully shows, fully displays their efforts and dedicated work with love towards me. I am now at peace with myself, admitting that I have been pouring into other cups where my own is empty. I have been extending my hand to others where my own hand had been closed to accept and received help and nutrition for my life and spirit. Giving my thanks to MOI is short compared to the immense task, work, and setup that is being laid out and presented to us. Showing my efforts to better myself and help improve others around me will be my humble and grateful blessing to MOI.

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 30s
"I came into it not exactly sure what to expect, but I can honestly say I experienced exactly what I needed."

This retreat was a truly profound experience. I came into it not exactly sure what to expect, but I can honestly say I experienced exactly what I needed. As a medical professional, I had spent the last year and a half feeling disconnected — listlessly moving through life.

During the retreat, I was reminded — or perhaps shown for the first time — that there is so much more to life than we often see or understand. I’ve come away with a deep sense of gratitude: for my life, for the people in it, and for the opportunities I’ve had and those still to come.

What I’ve gained goes far beyond inspiration — it’s a renewed sense of purpose and an urgency to act. I now have a clear framework to incorporate into my daily life, one that supports health, productivity, and true fulfillment. I was also able to observe my thoughts and behaviors more objectively, recognizing patterns that no longer serve me and committing to strengthening the relationships that truly matter.

And perhaps most meaningfully, I formed bonds with a group of men I now proudly call brothers — connections I know will last a lifetime.

If you feel stuck or are searching for something more, I can’t think of a better place to begin.

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 40s
"It was not an easy experience but it was a rewarding experience."

I came to the retreat not really knowing what to expect. I knew it had to do with self improvement but did not know how the program functioned or how it would help. I would like to say first of all that the 4 guides that guided me and the other participants really care about all the people that go through this retreat. I felt that each one of them brought something special to the experience and wanted each and everyone of us to feel comfortable and safe. The same goes for all the other participants. We defenitley built a strong community in a short amount of time. It was not an easy experience but it was a rewarding experience. What I am taking with me from the experience is the want to be more consciouse of my family relationships as well as romantic ones. I also want to put into practice some of the tools we used while at the retreat into my daily life. It is only a day after the retreat and I am staying with a friend for a few days but I have a direction for my life and am excited to get home and get to work. I look forward to seeing all the participants and guides in an upcoming zoom meeting. Each and every person that was at the retreat touched me in a very special way and I want the very best for all of them!

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 50s
"I came home feeling open and energized."

I just returned from my second MOI retreat and it was a wonderful and meaningful experience. The retreat was well run and you can tell how much love and effort they put into the planning and execution. The accommodations were top notch and the food was really good. It was such a great opportunity to explore my inner self using this ancient medicine that nature has provided. I felt safe and protected, which allowed me to really surrender and get the most out of the experience. The presentations about nutrition and relationships are packed full of useful information that was easy to take back into my daily life. The group chats were helpful to identify and integrate the things that I learned. I used the retreat as a break from the routines in my life. It was a great time to make some changes in my diet and to start some new, healthy routines. I came home feeling open and energized. I received wonderful feedback from my wife and the people close to me about how much calmer, happier, and open that I seemed. I met some other great men on the retreat and formed some friendships that I am sure will last a lifetime. This retreat might be one of the best things that I have done for myself. If you are feeling the call to try this yourself, I highly recommend that you listen.

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 50s
"I feel more happy and open than I have in a long time."

I came into my retreat weekend feeling a little anxious. I had never been to a retreat like this before. Leading up to the retreat I had been working on myself and learning how to look deeper inside. This seemed like a perfect extension of this work. I felt drawn to this experience, so I decided to go and signed up. I arrived at a wonderful house and began to meet the people that I would be sharing this experience with.

Everybody was very friendly, open, and welcoming. Michael and Yoni provided a great experience. You can tell they have put a lot of effort into planning this weekend. The food was great and the conversation was better. At times, those anxious feelings came to the surface. This was all new territory for me. These guys were great at talking to me about it and helping throughout the experience. I always felt safe and cared for. They are a couple of smart guys with plenty of experience.

The presentations during the weekend were relevant in my life and my eyes were opened to some new perspectives. I came away from the experience feeling energized and connected to the world around me. I made strong connections with everybody who was there. I feel more happy and open than I have in a long time. My wife says she notices a better energy coming from me. I feel like I learned new things about myself and the experience was profound.

If you feel drawn to this, I highly recommend this experience, you won’t be sorry.

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 60s
"Eight men from very different walks of life came together as strangers and left with a life long connective bond."

The level of Love at this retreat was palpable. Eight men from very different walks of life and experiences, came together as strangers and left with a life long connective bond. That alone is amazing and transformative. To watch each of us do the work, deep emotional work and walk out the other side better humans also deeply transformative. We all have been handed a key to open our Souls and evolve, I realize that this gifted key is only the beginning and if the box isn’t opened and the inner workings of life don’t change then this precious key will rust quickly and no longer open this box. You can call it a God Box. So for me the work has not stopped and as life already is trying to pull me back into it’s grip, as I continue this walk that grip will loosen and my journey is freed to travel in whatever realms I Spirit moves to. Gentleman I challenge you to engage your journey with the same energy you brought to the retreat. “NOTHING BUT LOVE SENT YOUR WAY’S”

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 50s
"The MOI retreat gave me the tools to get up off the floor and begin to live again."

I entered into this process an anxious skeptic. I knew I needed something to help me find myself again. I wanted to feel normal; I wanted to feel like the man I used to be before the things that happened happened. I was unaware of how much I was holding onto, burying inside myself trying to be a “strong man.” Mike and Yoni’s methods broke that dam. Everything is clear now. A lot has fallen into place, and I understand now the things I need to do for myself, my family and friends, and my community (both old and new.) The MOI retreat gave me the tools to get up off the floor and begin to live again. I found a happiness I never thought I would feel again. I don’t believe I’m an atheist anymore. I can’t thank Mike, Yoni, the MOI support team and the entire community enough. Aho!

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 50s
"From the moment I arrived, I felt an immediate sense of peace and belonging."

Before attending the retreat, I was both nervous and skeptical. I didn’t know what to expect or what the experience would bring. However, from the moment I arrived, I felt an immediate sense of peace and belonging. I was welcomed by the entire staff with warmth and sincerity, and I knew right away that I was exactly where I was meant to be. Throughout the training, I gained valuable insight into myself. I learned that I am the controller of my own destiny — that I hold the keys to my success. I discovered how to look within for the answers I seek, how to love more deeply and intentionally, and how to better show up for my family by leading with love. During the retreat, I always felt heard, respected, and supported. I left with a renewed sense of confidence and clarity, as well as a strong connection to a band of brothers who I know will continue to support me beyond this experience. This retreat was truly life-changing, and it is an experience I will carry with me for the rest of my life. Thank you.

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 50s
"Since the retreat my work has seemed effortless and actually enjoyable."

I haven’t spent five days with five men in an exploratory experience since the early 90’s. What an exceptional experience, one I will cherish forever and have gained four exceptional friends in my life. I experienced pain in my gut that had been there since I was a child, unlike some “Aha” moments I have experienced, this occurs like a lifelong quest for optimum health. Michael and Yoni are two of the most centered, confident, compassionate and easy-to-be with men I have ever met. Their teamwork and partnership in every aspect of the retreat allowed me to relax and absorb an incredible amount of information and self awareness. I’ve started a meditation practice that I have been talking about for years. I start my day with the hydration practice and the Good Morning song that I dance to happily and if you knew me before the retreat I was not dancing anytime much less in the morning. The only reason I have not previously quit my job was because it provided a decent living. However, since the retreat my work has seemed effortless and actually enjoyable!

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 50s
"As someone somewhere said, “10 years of talk therapy reduced to 4 days”. I now understand that."

As someone somewhere said, “10 years of talk therapy reduced to 4 days” . I now understand that. Specifically, I gained clarity and deep insights into myself. I awoke to realize my connection with the world around me and a knowledge that everything is and will be ok. I learned to trust myself. I learned I am you. I learned how to be comfortable with being uncomfortable. I am no longer agnostic. Michael and Yoni were extremely supportive and tender with me in my first such experience in over 23 years. Thank you!!! The food was exceptional. The house they chose was fabulous. Being in a hot tub in the rain and snow was amazing in late June. My advice to those reading this is to trust that everything will be ok and just do it. I am so very grateful to you Mike, Yoni, as well as the rest of the group. It was revelatory and I am forever changed.

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 40s
"This retreat was exactly what I needed to set me free."

Attending the Men Of Integrity retreat led by Michael Tierno and Yoni Havana, has changed my life. I had not realized how much throughout my childhood, young adulthood, and my life now as a 49 year old man I allowed the hurts, disappointments and traumas I’ve experienced to rule the way I reacted to difficulty in life. I was essentially complicit in my own emotional bondage to these events. This retreat was exactly what I needed to set me free.

The MOI retreat was challenging. It was also very comfortable given the absolutely beautiful location and the attention to detail, such as the healthy and satisfying meals provided, and the educational workshops we participated in together. The hosts are both amazing individuals and skilled in their respective disciplines. The lessons I learned will serve me immensely both as an individual, and in all of my relationships. I was witness to the transformation of three other men and I know the gift that was given me will be with me for the rest of my life.

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 20s
"Completely life altering weekend."

Completely life altering weekend. Throughout my late teens and early 20’s, I had developed a number of really ugly personality traits that for over a decade of my life I had accepted as just who I was. A series of life events resulted in me looking inward at my ego and realizing that I really hated what I saw. I saw a boy that was fighting so hard to make everything in the world happen in accordance with his desires who would lose control of his thoughts and emotions when things didn’t work out that way, which as you can imagine was most of the time. I also saw a boy that had very little compassion for others and a boy that was scared and always in defense mode, of which my greatest defense was to be mean to perceived threats (people). In addition, I was just getting out of my first serious relationship where I had objectively failed to be a man in the relationship. Over the course of the weekend, Yoni and Michael taught me so much and helped me a shine a light on my inner self. Michael made me feel so safe over the course of the weekend, almost serving as a father figure. His relationship seminar is one I would have paid thousands of dollars to have heard months prior as it possibly could have saved my relationship. Yoni is the most inspirational person I’ve ever met in my 27 years. I was so impressed by his life story, the family he had built, his character and the intentionality that he conducts all aspects of life with. I realized I had found my role model that I so desperately needed.

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 40s
"These men had such a power impact on my life when I needed it the most."

These men had such a power impact on my life when I needed it the most. During this retreat I was able to deeply understand how to navigate these daily struggles I was having in life. Opening up to other men from completely different backgrounds and life situations and hearing what they are going though was incredibly healing for me. Mike, Mike and Yoni make a great team in helping guide you though your journeys to heal yourself from within. As a pretty conservative health professional myself, I can attest that they know exactly what they are doing, closely observing what every individual group member needs. As someone who was initially nervous committing to this, I’m telling you to trust these men and let their vast knowledge guide you though your healing. I’m so proud to be a new member of the MOI community and can’t wait to show my wife and kids my true capabilities of being the husband and father they deserve

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 30s
"Yoni and Mike are true professionals and create a safe and comfortable container for us to learn and grow as men."

I had some reservations around attending my first Men of Integrity retreat. I have some experience with plant medicine work in the past and felt some fear and uncertainty, which kept me from attending a retreat sooner. Now, having just finished my first retreat, I am looking forward to the next one. Yoni and Mike are true professionals and create a safe and comfortable container for us to learn and grow as men. The retreat is definitely not a vacation. You come there to do work. There is plenty of space for downtime, relaxing, and reflection, but most energy is directed towards becoming a better version of ourselves. The work can be challenging, but the food is fantastic, the accommodations are comfortable, the connection and support is ubiquitous, and the event is very well run with a high level of intention. I will absolutely be back for another retreat with Yoni, Mike, and the other men in the community.

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 30s
"Just be open and trust the process and most of all, be “all in”."

I came into this as my first experience doing anything like this. Although I had partaken in some of the activities it was never in this type of setting. I’ve always been a pretty open minded guy but in some ways but some of the labels I’d put on myself prior to this retreat were “a midwestern bro”, “a tough rugby guy”, etc. so certainly going on something like this was a bit out of my comfort zone. Throughout the course of the weekend there were times I was unsure but every time I had a moment like this I would found myself inspired by the leaders and the men attending the retreat and I would then fully re-commit myself to the process. In the end I was completely happy with my experience. The men I met were amazing and I feel I got a lot out of it. My advice to others would be this; if doing something like this is something that you’ve been thinking about for a while but maybe it scares you a bit you should 100% do it. Once you decide to do it just be open and trust the process and most of all, be “all in”. If you do that I am confident you’ll get what you need in the process and meet a bunch of awesome men in the process.

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 30s
"It was a space of no judgment."

MOI was a life-changing experience. Being vulnerable and open with men trying to better themselves was incredible. It’s a rare thing to be able to do in our world as men. It was a space of no judgment. The whole retreat experience clarified a lot that I was unsure about. It’s already helping me better direct my life and build up the confidence I had suffered before this experience. Now, I feel like I have made lifelong men as deep friends to support me in my ongoing journey. Yoni and the Mikes are excellent guides throughout the whole process. I love that they offer continued support after the retreat to help with integration. I highly recommend the retreat if you feel stuck or want to take your life to the next level.

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 30s
"The MOI program has become my compass, guiding me toward meaningful impact."

As I reflect on my second retreat with the MOI team, I am profoundly moved by the facilitators attention and profound commitment to bettering lives. For me, this program isn’t just about accumulating complements as I better myself it’s about showcasing values and contributing to positive change.

As I assess my journey, I recognize the broken systems that have persisted due to years of neglect. Now, armed with determination and with a clear manifest in mind, I am committed to repairing and revitalizing these systems. The MOI program has become my compass, guiding me toward meaningful impact.

To my fellow brothers, let’s continue embracing the program principles and uplifting one to another. Together, we can create a positive transformation that extend far beyond our individual journeys

Amen.

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 40s
"The impact of the MOI team and this men’s retreat is a pivot point in my life."

The impact of the MOI team and this men’s retreat is a pivot point in my life. With meaningful rituals, solid science, great guidance, innovative concepts, and time-tested routines, the MOI Team not only set me on a path of personal healing and betterment, they brought me into a brotherhood of men ready to shift our lives from surviving to thriving. The medicine work gave me a catalyst for inner transformation, and was beautifully reinforced by the presentations, conversations, reflections, and connections interwoven throughout the retreat. I am confident now to take charge of the changes I want to create in my life, and know I have the support from and accountability to the MOI community to make them happen. I came away from this experience full of gratitude, love, self-knowledge, and hope.

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 30s
"One of the most special moments in my adult life."

The Men of Integrity retreat was truly a life-changing experience. Notably, one of the most special moments in my adult life. At first, I didn’t really know what to expect and what lay on the road ahead.

We all have our day-to-day lives and issues, and this experience has simply taught me on how to live my life better and how to let go of these things that I hold on to so tightly. The team really makes one feel at home and the experiences are beyond anything I have personally ever experienced before.

I highly recommended this to anyone who wants to elevate their lives and learn how to live life much much better. The information I gathered is mind-blowing!

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 30s
"You will walk away from the weekend a better man than when you walked in."

I have been doing introspective, self therapy work for the last five years, both guided and on my own. When Michael and Yoni reached out about leading a weekend of it, I jumped at the opportunity. I’ve known them for years, and I still walked away in awe of their capacity and talent for creating a safe, welcoming, positive energy environment that is truly conducive to self-realization and improvement. They facilitate a group energy that is deep and assuring all at once. I am truly grateful for the weekend they provided and would recommend it to anyone that feels called to it. You will not be disappointed and you will walk away from the weekend a better man than when you walked in.

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 50s
"Definitely one of the most spiritual events of my life."

Absolutely amazing event. Went into it with some reservations not knowing anyone came away feeling it was one of the best experiences of my life. Mike, Mike and Yoni did an incredible job making us feel welcome, providing incredible food, and making sure that each day was filled with enriching and worthwhile content. Definitely one of the most spiritual events of my life. I cannot say enough, good things if you are reading this, and considering this journey, I strongly encourage you to take the plunge you will come away, feeling clearer and focused with knowledge you need to become the best version of yourself.

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 30s
"I found myself surrounded by incredibly brave men that were open, honest, and vulnerbable."

MOI was an experience of a lifetime. I found MOI through a close freind that had attended a previous retreat. The guides showed us a great time and brought so much value with thier workshops and journeys. I found myself surrounded by incredibly brave men that were open, honest, and vulnerbable. Men long for this short of camaraderie and it’s very hard to find in this crazy world we live in. Yoni and Mike are amazing men. I would recomend MOI to all Men looking to better themselves.

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 30s
"One of the best weekends of healing, relaxing, and laughing I’ve ever experienced."

One of the best weekends of healing, relaxing, and laughing I’ve ever experienced. The love, care and thoughtfulness by the MOI team is unmatched and astonishing. Their Genuine hearts and motives are exemplary and noteworthy. I’m proud to say I had the courage to explore this portion of my body and be open to plant medicines. If you get the chance to be a part of a healing retreat, do it for your loved ones and do it for yourself, you deserve it!!

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 50s
"They have a sincere desire to help men open their hearts and spirit."

After having attended the first retreat, 3 years ago, I returned for a second time to a well oiled machine. What a fantastically awesome experience! The group leaders are amazingly gentle, caring, and open people. They have a sincere desire to help men open their hearts and spirit to cure themselves of the patterns of behavior that don’t serve us anymore. The home, the meals, the presentations , the ceremonies, the structuring of the retreat couldn’t have been better! Thank you all!

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 50s
"What I left with was lightness and a feeling of true brotherhood."

The MOI retreat is something I did not think could exist; A gathering of men with different lives but a common goal. I feel that if you have clear intentions and open mind & heart, you will experience a change for the better. I came as a student who dedicated himself to healing and growth. What I left with was lightness and a feeling of true brotherhood. If you do the work and take it seriously I feel the possibilities are endless.

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 30s
"Deep senses of gratitude, connection, and hope."

My experience on my first, but hopefully not last, MOI retreat brought me deep senses of gratitude, connection, and hope. With the wisdom, support, safety, trust, and guidance of the MOI facilitators and other participants, I gleaned insights from my expanded experiences for how I will manifest improvements in myself, my relationships, and other important aspects of my life. I am blessed to have found the courage to open myself to the new (to me), beautiful, and powerful experiences and growth MOI has to offer.

🔥 Men of IntegrityMan in his 30s
"A life-changing journey that I would take time and time again."

A life-changing journey that I would take time and time again it was so powerful and healing. I would recommend to any man who has lost his way.

Where to go next

See the programs these accounts came from.