“When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be.”
Lao Tzu
Imagine going through life with an invisible anchor strapped to your back.
You feel it in every conversation, every task, every relationship.
It slows you down, wears you out, and keeps you from taking the risks your heart longs for.
And the worst part?
You’ve grown so used to it, you’ve stopped fighting. You’ve adapted.
You’ve settled for enduring what was meant to be released.
But you weren’t made to drag dead weight through life.
You were made to be free.
Happy. Joyous. Unburdened.
What if now is the time to cut the anchor?
What’s holding you back?
- Neglecting your body or health?
- Prioritizing work or distraction over real connection?
- A quiet voice of self-doubt you can’t seem to shut off?
- Overindulgence, procrastination, or resentment?
Whatever your anchor is—it’s time to name it. Face it. And release it.
COA 2025 is designed to help you do exactly that.
Featured Sessions
Unchained: A Panel on Porn and Sexual Struggle – Facilitated by David Cunningham
An honest conversation about porn, shame, and the journey to sexual integrity. Hear real stories from men who have struggled and found freedom—so you can begin to untangle the weight you may be carrying too.
The Tyranny of “Should” – with David Cunningham
Explore how your attachment to control fuels fear, resentment, and paralysis—and learn how to release it.
Making Peace with God – with Tim Lancaster
Struggling with anger toward God or doubt about His existence? This session helps you confront spiritual wounds and open the door to an honest, healing connection.
The Art of Forgetfulness – with Mark Graeser (LMHC)
Learn to let go of the ego’s constant judgment—of self and others—and live with clarity, humility, and freedom.
Aligning with Your True Self – with Duncan Vos
A guided reflection to move beyond limiting beliefs and into alignment with your deepest, most authentic nature.
“COA is the remedy for the plague that has come upon this generation of men. Society has taught us that we must be apart from nature and each other when we must come together so that we can be strong and connected.”
Who
COA is a brotherhood of exceptional men from many different backgrounds, professions, and spiritual traditions. However, all share one thing in common: a desire for growth, transformation, and service. Each man represent a unique manifestation of the divine masculine. Their experience, personality, and spirit make them uniquely qualified to speak truth and love into each other’s life.
They are the awesomeness that we are celebrating (even though most still struggle to own just how awesome they are.) Each man is heroic in his own way. Each man has overcome challenges that others would have crumbled under.
They are a good gift…to me…to each other and to this world that desperately needs their courage, wisdom, and strength. Collectively, we are a force to be reckoned with.
They are men of action. Inspirational men. Men that show up for their family, friends and community. Men that want to be their best selves. Men that aren’t afraid to do the work and that don’t run away from a challenge. Leaders.
Why only men? When men show up in community together and drop their mask something transformative happens. Healing. There is truly nothing like it in the world.
“I haven’t experienced anything quite like that weekend, well, ever. It was intense, rewarding, and it showed me what happens when people are truly vulnerable with each other. It was a beautiful thing.”
What
- Spiritual self development backed by contemporary psychology
- Morning yoga, ice bath, and somatic breathing work
- Delicious and healthy meals prepared on site (Vegan and Vegetarian options available)
- Connection with like minded men from across the US dedicated toward growth
- Practical take aways to improve your life
- 3 nights stay (with linens and towels) in an incredible log cabin lodge
- Small group, individual and one on one sessions designed to help you become a better man
- Opportunities to rest, play, relax and reflect away from responsibility
- Custom T-shirt as a reminder of all the awesomeness.
- A life changing and transformative experience with some of the coolest men you have ever met
Not only are the exercises we will do powerful in and of themselves, doing this while connecting with other men dedicated towards growth and service is truly Awesomeness! Free from the responsibilities of work and family, this is an opportunity for rejuvenation, inspiration, and a time to connect in a meaningful way to other men. Although man doesn’t live by bread alone, we are going to eat well. On this retreat all food both physical and otherwise will be provided. Everything is taken care of…just show up and feel your shoulders drop.
“COA is a chance to reconnect with yourself alongside others who are doing the same. It is a unique and authentic experience and an amazing opportunity for growth, should you be courageous enough to open your heart and be vulnerable.”
When
It starts at 5pm on Thursday, September 11th
and ends 11am Sunday , September 14th
Some may not be able to make it until later in the evening on Thursday. Dinner will be at 6 with our opening events starting at 7:30.
Where
Located next to a stocked 3 acre pond with canoe and kayak, this massive 5200 square foot log cabin in Brownsburg Indiana, a short 25 minute drive from Indianapolis International Airport. It sleeps 20 and is equipped with 5.5 baths, pool table, fire pit and walk out basement.
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The Food
We eat like kings all weekend. We cook and eat all our meals together family style. The conversations around the dinner table are truly priceless. Vegetarian and Vegan options are available as well.
“The retreat, company of men, facilitator, and curriculum, all created a space that was safe to explore, challenge, be honest, learn, and become a better person! The retreat has definitely literally changed my life! What an opportunity!”
Why
You deserve it. You deserve to be poured into, to be loved and encouraged. You deserve two days to recalibrate and re-center. You will make powerful connections with like minded men. Your family will thank you. Your children will thank you. Why? Because you will come back a better man than you left.
Leadership
Facilitators
David Cunningham is a seasoned guide for men on the path of healing, awakening, and reclaiming their power. A father of five, nationally awarded realist painter, and tenured college professor, David weaves the sacred and the practical into everything he does. He’s 25 years sober, a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and the founder of Celebration of Awesomeness, a retreat experience designed to reconnect men to truth, purpose, and presence.
David isn’t here to fix you—he’s here to walk beside you as you remember who you are. His work blends somatic practices, deep listening, spiritual wisdom, and raw honesty. He knows what it’s like to be broken, burned out, and lost—and how to rise again. With a rare mix of compassion, humor, and unflinching truth-telling, David helps men face what’s real, release what’s false, and step into the life they were meant to live.
Ken Caselden is a seasoned psychotherapist with over 15 years of experience walking alongside men as they navigate addiction, anger, and the deeper emotional wounds beneath the surface. With dual licensure as a Professional Counselor and Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Ken brings both clinical insight and compassionate presence to his work.
What sets Ken apart is his ability to hold space—not to fix or advise, but to truly witness. His approach honors the full spectrum of mind, body, and spirit, helping men listen to what their inner world is trying to say. He’s also a Certified Breath Instructor and the founder of Freedom Wellness Center in Owensboro, Kentucky. At this retreat, Ken brings a calming, grounded energy—and a deep commitment to helping men heal, breathe, and come home to themselves.
“The retreat made me feel as though I had been delivered from myself.”
Investment
WHAT’S THIS EXPERIENCE REALLY WORTH?
- 3 nights in a beautiful log cabin on a private 3-acre pond? → $600
- 5 home-cooked meals shared with good men? → $800
- Coaching, healing, and spiritual fire from seasoned guides? → $1600
- Yoga, book swap, firepit connection, laughter, s’mores, and brotherhood? → Priceless
Real-world value: $1800+
Your cost: as low as $525
REGISTRATION OPTIONS
Early Bird – Paid in Full by July 1
→ $525
→ Includes first choice of beds
→ Locks in your spot and your commitment
Standard Registration – After July 1
→ $625
→ Due in full by August 1
Split Payment Option
→ $200 non-refundable deposit holds your spot
→ Remaining $425 due by August 1
→ Bed priority still goes to those who pay in full first
SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE
We’re offering up to 3 scholarships to reduce the cost for men who feel deeply called to attend but are currently navigating financial hardship.
- Scholarships range from $125 to $325 off
- Your final cost may be $500, $400, or $300, depending on need
- Priority goes to younger men, those in life transition, or anyone with significant financial strain
- All recipients are expected to contribute what they can and show up fully—this is about commitment, not charity
HOW TO APPLY
Deadline to Apply: August 1
Decisions Announced: August 5
To apply, text me at 317.603.0886 and answer these 3 questions:
- Why do you feel called to this retreat?
- What amount can you realistically afford to pay?
- What is the nature of your particular financial hardship?
Some recipients may be invited to contribute by helping with cleanup, packing/unpacking, and other administrative tasks.
SLEEPING ARRANGEMENTS
There are 20 beds available, first come, first paid.
After that, sleeping outdoors isn’t a backup plan—it’s a choice.
If you’re the kind of man who finds peace in the quiet of a tent, the stillness of a hammock, or the beauty of sleeping under stars, you’ll have plenty of space to do that. Some guys actually prefer it.
If this is calling to you—don’t wait.
This isn’t about convenience.
It’s about breakthrough.
It’s about who you’re becoming.
Testimonials From Participants
“Much needed retreat for men in our culture of disconnection and emotional suppression.”
“COA is a literal celebration of existence and the amazing ness of strong men that are trying to do better for themselves and everyone around them“
“I push myself to be more successful in work, family, and health. But I seldom find ways to challenge and inspire my heart and spirit that is the center of it all. That is what the weekend is all about.”
“COA was a rare experience in American culture. Within the first hour, a level of vulnerability was reached that is seldom experienced in any other facet of life. I felt welcomed and invited to be myself with no pretense. It was healing.”
“COA was a rare experience in American culture. Within the first hour, a level of vulnerability was reached that is seldom experienced in any other facet of life. I felt welcomed and invited to be myself with no pretense. It was healing.”
“While the retreats’ interactions certainly pushed me out of my comfort zone they also seemed to open a door to a more human experience…a break from my constant cerebral focus. I still draw on the insight, perspective and conversations born from that weekend.”