Here’s something you don’t see every day: A talk show whose target audience is men that is controversial, but not for what you might think. Appearing on Prime Video and Amazon Freevee, Counsel Culture is a unique TV series that is rare even with the billions of TV shows streaming left and right. Instead of talking about sports or entertainment, this show tackles topics that men often have a hard time talking about with others. With a goal of lifting the veil on preconceived notions, “taboo” topics like mental health, grief, marriage, masculinity, emotional vulnerability, trust, and financial security are discussed in depth.

Based on Nick Cannon’s podcast of the same name, Cannon serves as the host and moderator of Counsel Culture. Right from the beginning, he proves that unlike his other hosting duties on The Masked Singer and his previous gig, America’s Got Talent, he’s got a serious side. He’s no Dr. Phil and he doesn’t claim to be. Instead of giving advice, he seeks it out from his panel of guests. In various episodes Cannon shares his own struggles with depression, the death of one of his children and his failed marriage. In turn, the panelists give each topic the attention that it deserves while also keeping things light and easy to digest. This group of guys are doctors, therapists, psychiatrists and a few of Nick’s friends too.

The impressive list of guest panelists appearing on the show include comedian Howie Mandel, former NBA star Lamar Odom, entertainer NE-YO, NFL star receiver DeSean Jackson, artist and entrepreneur Ray-J, singer August Alsina, grief expert David Kessler, comedian Tim Chantarangsu, relationship expert Terri Cole, comedian and actor Godfrey, licensed therapist and author John Kim, plastic surgeon Dr. Sheila Nazarian, NFL star T.J. Slaughter, former UFC champion Tyron Woodley, NBA star Matt Barnes, licensed therapist and author John Kim and psychic medium John Edward.

You’ll hear Cannon state during each broadcast that we don’t need more “cancel culture” but rather, “counsel culture” where guys are allowed to speak their mind without fear of being judged by others. Kudos to these men who open up and become vulnerable to millions of people. At first glance, you might think that you would not be able to relate to these men, but the bottom line is, they still have the same struggles that we do and often are just as lost as to where to find help. A few questions are brought to the table from those in the audience too.

“I created Counsel Culture to help destigmatize male mental health,” says Cannon. It’s a safe space and a brave place to allow men to discuss their emotions and allow themselves to learn, grow and heal. Instead of canceling each other, we are counseling each other. We have a rotating panel where we will discuss necessary topics, and nothing is off limits.”

This show packs a lot within each 30 minute-ish long episodes. It’s not a perfect show, as the format feels a little scripted and sometimes a joke is spoken that doesn’t really land. All in all though, a lot of good advice is given in each episode.

All nine episodes of season 1 is currently streaming on Prime Video and Amazon Freevee.

Main Image: Prime Video