John Wineland-Inspired Shadow Work Men’s Retreat Near San Francisco California
Unlock Deeper Presence and Purpose
What would it feel like to confront the unacknowledged parts of yourself and transform them into sources of true power? The Not Done Yet men’s retreat is your invitation to do exactly that. From January 16–20, 2025, this transformative retreat offers a Men’s shadow work retreat that draws inspiration from John Wineland—an influential teacher known for his emphasis on embodied presence, brotherhood, and deep relational mastery. If you’re seeking to break free from limiting beliefs, reignite your sense of purpose, and build a legacy that resonates far beyond the surface level, look no further than this immersive experience held at Spirit Camp in Mendocino County.
Designed for men who are ready to confront their personal “shadows,” this gathering transcends casual self-help programs. It calls in those who crave genuine transformation and are willing to step courageously into the uncharted territories of emotional vulnerability. Whether you’re a corporate leader, an entrepreneur, a father, or simply a seeker who senses there is more to life than external accomplishments, you will find the camaraderie, challenge, and support you need in this environment.
A Deeper Look at Shadow Work: From Carl Jung to Modern Men’s Circles
Shadow work harks back to Carl Jung’s concept of the “shadow”—the unconscious aspects of our psyche that we hide or disown, often due to societal conditioning or internalized shame. Jung believed that acknowledging and integrating these shadow parts is essential for holistic well-being. In contemporary spiritual and therapeutic spheres, practitioners use methods like emotional expression, group sharing, guided meditation, and role-play to help bring hidden feelings to the surface. Learn more.
Modern men’s circles expand on these ideas by offering a container where vulnerability is not only permitted but encouraged. In an Inspired by John Wineland men’s event, participants learn to examine the dynamics of shame, desire, and fear, thereby releasing the emotional baggage that restricts their growth. These shared spaces become a playground for self-discovery: men can safely explore buried feelings and receive real-time feedback, accelerating the process of transformation. Learn more.
However, shadow work isn’t limited to emotional exploration alone. It also encompasses reckoning with the social and cultural narratives that define “masculinity,” making room for expanded expressions of strength, compassion, and depth. By shedding light on the parts of ourselves we keep in the dark, we cultivate a more authentic and integrated identity—one capable of deeper love, presence, and impact.
Why John Wineland?
Many men today grapple with superficial definitions of success, only to realize that the external accolades fail to address a deeper hunger for connection and purpose. John Wineland has emerged as a key figure in modern men’s work by teaching the art of presence, emotional mastery, and conscious leadership. His programs emphasize embodiment—meaning, you don’t just talk about deep masculine or feminine energies, you physically practice them. Through breath, movement, and intimate relational exercises, men discover new layers of authenticity and learn to lead from the heart rather than from ego or fear.
When we say this Men’s shadow work retreat is Inspired by John Wineland men’s event philosophies, we’re pointing to a lineage of teachings that highlight three core elements:
Depth: The willingness to feel and express the full range of human emotions without shutting down or escaping.
Presence: The capacity to be fully attentive in any given moment, whether in relationships, professional settings, or in personal reflection.
Purpose: The discovery of a life mission that transcends individual gratification, rooting one’s actions in service to others and to a grander vision of humanity’s unfolding.
These elements align seamlessly with Not Done Yet, a year-long men’s program that begins with this four-night, five-day deep dive in Mendocino. Through group circles, dynamic embodiment practices, and fireside reflections, you’ll engage in the kind of “hands-on” shadow work that fosters real, lasting change.
Photo of Deer Haven, one of the our many unique cabin spaces. This cabin has three beds. Cabins have between 1 to 8 beds each and provide several different sleeping arrangements for John Wineland. All cabin spaces are included in Men’s shadow work retreat.
Photo of Group Glamping Tents Setup in Sunset Meadow. We have 10 Glamping Structures that can be added with 1to 3 beds each. This can increase bed capacity of campus to 50 guests across 20 unique accommodation spaces.
Meet the Facilitator: Travis Streb
Travis Streb, the primary facilitator of this retreat, brings years of experience working with high-level executives, entrepreneurs, and men from all walks of life. His own journey led him from being an athlete in high school (where he was nicknamed “Coach”) to a sought-after executive mentor, and ultimately to the realm of embodied leadership. Realizing that intellectual coaching alone failed to produce sustainable transformations, Travis immersed himself in modalities like breathwork, shadow integration, and men’s relational training under mentors aligned with John Wineland and David Deida.
His approach balances compassion with directness, ensuring that each participant is both supported and challenged. He believes that men need a combination of heart-centered guidance and fierce accountability to transcend their comfort zones. Whether you’re confronting hidden emotional wounds or simply longing for deeper alignment with your mission, you’ll find an ally in Travis. He weaves personal anecdotes, practical teachings, and real-time feedback to guide you toward the best version of yourself.
Spirit Camp: The Perfect Container for Your Transformation
Nestled among towering redwoods on the West Coast in Northern California, Spirit Camp offers the ultimate setting for a Depth & presence workshop in Mendocino. The center’s Redwood-studded grounds invite you to slow down, breathe deeply, and immerse yourself in the subtle magic of nature. Each morning, you might hear birds greet the dawn as a cool coastal mist settles gently among the trunks. By afternoon, the sunlight filters through the canopy, illuminating a vibrant tapestry of ferns and moss.
Behind the nostalgic summer camp charm, you’ll find modern amenities thoughtfully designed to support your inner exploration. Guests can choose between private cabins for solitude and reflection or bunkhouse lodging for a classic camp experience. An all-inclusive meal plan ensures that everyone stays nourished and energized for daily exercises—often featuring organic, plant-forward dishes that honor your body’s need for lightness and vitality during intensive work.
In the evenings, you might gather around a fire pit under the Redwood hush, sharing insights in a circle lit only by flickering embers and the moonlight. It’s in these candid, heart-centered discussions that the real alchemy of Men’s embodiment near Bay Area practices unfolds. The synergy of Redwood energy and guided introspection forms a crucible for emotional release, acceptance, and profound healing.
Daily Activities: A Taste of the Men’s Circle Transformation
Afternoon Deep Dives into Shadow Work
After a communal breakfast in the Redwood Lodge, Travis leads group discussions, journaling exercises, or role-play sessions designed to surface the hidden aspects of self. Unlike superficial self-help talks, these sessions encourage genuine vulnerability. When shame or fear arises, the group holds a safe, nonjudgmental container, allowing deeper truths to emerge. This is where meaningful Men’s circle transformation happens.
Evenings of Embodied Integration
Once twilight settles, the retreat transitions into reflection and integration. You might huddle around a crackling fire or lounge in the Magic Meadow, recounting your revelations and receiving live feedback from peers. Whether it’s an emotional confession or a personal vow for change, the surrounding Redwood synergy encourages you to embody a new way of being rather than reverting to old patterns.
By the final night, men often describe a tangible shift in their demeanor—greater openness in the chest, more warmth in the voice, and a calm confidence radiating from deeper within. These signals indicate that the shadow work has begun to take root, paving the way for lasting transformation beyond the retreat.
Accessing Spirit Camp Near the Bay Area
Although you’ll feel worlds away in the tranquil Redwood forest, Spirit Camp lies just three hours north of the bustling San Francisco Bay Area and is conveniently positioned near Sonoma and Marin counties. Scenic drives through rolling hills and coastal vistas lead you from the city’s rush to the Redwood hush in a matter of hours. Only ten minutes from the town of Mendocino, the camp provides the ideal mix of seclusion and accessibility.
For anyone traveling from farther afield, major airports like San Francisco International (SFO) or Oakland International (OAK) are a few hours’ drive away, and the Santa Rosa airport is even closer. This central location in Northern California makes Spirit Camp a perfect spot for a Sacred masculine coastal retreat that still offers modern conveniences and easy travel logistics. You can even choose to arrive a day or two early or stay on afterward to explore charming local shops, coffeehouses, or the rugged coastal trails that define Mendocino’s allure.
Frequently Asked Questions
“Are John Wineland or David Deida attending in person?”
Neither John Wineland nor David Deida will be present at this retreat. The program is Inspired by John Wineland men’s event principles, but it is facilitated by Travis Streb, whose teaching style aligns with the spirit of embodied presence and emotional depth promoted by these influential figures.“What is shadow work, and is it emotionally intense?”
Shadow work involves uncovering and integrating hidden aspects of your psyche—traits or emotions you’ve repressed due to societal, familial, or self-imposed constraints. Yes, the process can be emotionally intense, as it often brings unresolved shame, fear, or pain to the surface. However, the supportive container and expert guidance help you navigate these experiences in a constructive, ultimately liberating way.“What kind of post-retreat community is available?”
Not Done Yet is structured as a year-long journey rather than a standalone event. After the retreat, you’ll have access to online gatherings, accountability groups, and further coaching to ensure continued growth. Many participants form lasting friendships, supporting each other well beyond the four days in Mendocino.
Additional Local Activities: Expand Your Mendocino Experience
Sampling Local Microbreweries
Although Spirit Camp maintains a sober environment during the retreat itself, men who wish to unwind or explore after the intensive might venture to the nearby microbreweries in Mendocino or Fort Bragg. These cozy establishments offer laid-back atmospheres where you can reflect on your new insights or simply savor the local culture.
Visit Glass Beach in Fort Bragg
A short drive from camp lies Glass Beach, famous for its colorful sea glass formed from years of discarded bottles and ocean smoothing. Strolling this shoreline can be a symbolic echo of your retreat journey—sharp edges softened by time and a willingness to be reshaped into something beautiful. The brisk coastal air, dramatic cliffs, and rhythmic crash of waves all evoke the sense of freedom and renewal you’ve cultivated during your Sacred masculine coastal retreat.
Strolling Through Mendocino Village
The quaint village of Mendocino, just ten minutes away, beckons with its art galleries, specialty shops, and inviting cafés. A leisurely post-retreat walk through its historic streets can be the perfect way to integrate your experiences, allowing you to savor a mellow afternoon while reflecting on the emotional breakthroughs you’ve had.
A Final Invitation
Shadow work, especially one Inspired by John Wineland men’s event teachings, isn’t about becoming someone else; it’s about reclaiming the parts of you that have always been there, waiting to be acknowledged and loved. The Not Done Yet program frames this journey as both an inward expedition and a communal adventure—a place where brotherhood and accountability accelerate your growth faster than going it alone.
If you feel the stirring to brave the depths of your inner world and emerge with renewed purpose, presence, and power, the time to act is now. Learn more about the Not Done Yet men’s retreat here, and claim your seat among men who refuse to settle for shallow living. Should you seek additional avenues of personal exploration, see all similar themed retreats at Spirit Camp and discover the one that resonates with your ongoing evolution.
TOPICS:
John Wineland, Men’s shadow work retreat, Inspired by John Wineland men’s event, Depth & presence workshop in Mendocino, Men’s embodiment near Bay Area, Sacred masculine coastal retreat, Men’s circle transformation, Redwood hush, Redwood synergy, San Francisco Bay Area.
