Donald Trump isn’t the same man he was in 2016. And according to Marc Azoulay, that change is more about psychology than politics. In this episode of the Men’s Therapy Podcast, Marc breaks down Trump’s psyche through a Jungian archetype framework. He explores how the king archetype can evolve or deteriorate when shadow work is neglected.
“This isn’t about the left or the right,” Marc explains. “This is about power, ego, archetypes, and what happens when the myth a man builds around himself starts to crack.”
He draws a clear parallel between Trump’s public transformation and the struggles faced by millions of men in the Western world. In his view, the dissolution of the king archetype when it is left unattended results in obsession with fear, control, and power. “When your entire self-worth is built on power, applause, and dominance,” Marc says, “things like aging, legal trouble, and rejection aren’t just painful. They’re annihilating.”
By unpacking these concepts, Marc is guiding men in their 20s to 50s toward self-awareness, emotional growth, and a healthier expression of masculinity.
In Jungian archetypes, the king represents maturity, wisdom, and stewardship. He protects the kingdom, ensures justice, and embodies ethical leadership. Marc warns that when this archetype is distorted, it becomes the tyrant. “It becomes obsessed with loyalty, driven by paranoia, fragile, and terrified of being overthrown.”
Marc describes men who build their entire identity on being the guy, the leader, the problem-solver, the man who never shows weakness. Over time, life humbles them, and without shadow work, they risk slipping into toxic masculinity and destructive control issues.
For Trump, Marc suggests, the shadow is rooted in weakness, irrelevance, loss of status, and the fear of defeat. But this isn’t unique to political figures. Many men carry the same burden. “I’ve sat across hundreds of men who say, ‘I can’t be soft. I can’t be wrong. I have to be the one in control.’”
This unyielding stance often masks deep loneliness. By avoiding vulnerability, men preserve the illusion of strength, but in reality, they are serving their ego rather than their values. “When we bury the shadow, we start to become it,” Marc notes. “Not because we’re strong, but because we’re scared.”
Marc emphasizes that real power comes from integration, not dominance. Shadow work is about facing and accepting the parts of ourselves we’ve repressed. It is central to this process. He offers a practical starting point: journaling. “Write down the thoughts you try to keep at bay, your insecurities, fears, and those old wounds you’ve never dealt with,” he advises. “Instead of avoiding them, look them in the face. That’s masculinity. That’s courage.”
While self-reflection is key, Marc stresses that therapy can help illuminate blind spots. “No matter how strong you think you are, you are afraid of your shadow. That’s why it’s your shadow.”
According to Marc, many men, Trump included, double down on old strategies when life changes. This can be a major driver of a midlife crisis. “Doing the same thing, but harder, only gets you so far,” he warns. Growth requires adapting, not repeating outdated patterns.
By committing to shadow work, men can move from fear-based leadership to the role of the wise king: a leader who guides with empathy, courage, and depth. “You can be the man who integrates, who leads not through fear but through understanding,” Marc says.
Marc’s analysis of Donald Trump’s king archetype offers a mirror for all men, especially those navigating leadership, personal growth, or a midlife crisis. Shadow work isn’t about weakness; it’s about courage, integration, and becoming the man you were meant to be. As Marc reminds his listeners, “Hold up the mirror to yourself. If you’re willing to do the work, you’re already on the path.”
Marc Azoulay is a licensed psychotherapist and the host of the Men’s Therapy Podcast. It is a show dedicated to helping men lead healthier, more meaningful lives. He has years of clinical experience. Marc blends evidence-based psychology with practical advice to guide men toward emotional growth. He helps them develop resilience and authentic leadership.
As a recognized voice in men’s mental health, Marc is passionate about dismantling outdated models of masculinity. Through his podcast, writing, and speaking engagements, he empowers men to confront their shadows, embrace vulnerability, and live with greater purpose.
Men’s Therapy Online is a revolutionary platform. It is devoted to addressing the particular mental health issues encountered by men. It is hosted by Marc Azoulay, a certified men’s mental health coach. The podcast addresses a wide range of critical topics. These include grief, career transitions, emotional resilience, and personal growth. Every episode will offer insightful conversations and useful coping mechanisms to guide you through life. Join the community and start your journey towards becoming a better man!
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