First Time Founders with Ed Elson – This Founder Wants to Help Men Have More Sex

Scott begins the discussion by addressing a concerning trend: more young men are experiencing sexual dysfunction. He cites that many young men opt for online interactions over physical ones, leading to a drop in intimate relationships. Factors include societal changes, political divisions, and the impact of online dating which seems to favor a small percentage of men, effectively locking out the broader majority. Angus highlights that erectile dysfunction (ED) isn't just a problem for older men; rather, one in four men under 40 now struggles with it, a statistic that reflects a deeper issue of disconnect and anxiety in modern dating.

Angus shares the origin story of Mojo, which emerged following a personal experience with erectile dysfunction. This led to a significant conversation with his cousin about the impact of performance anxiety on mental health and social life. The duo realized that solutions like medication weren't addressing the root causes. Eventually, they decided to create Mojo, an app designed to deliver sex therapy resources and break the stigma surrounding male sexual health.

The conversation takes a deeper dive into the psychological factors contributing to sexual dysfunction. Angus explains that a significant portion of erectile dysfunction among young men is attributed to performance anxiety rather than purely physical causes. The pressure of societal expectations and comparison—exacerbated by unrealistic portrayals in media—creates a cycle of anxiety and withdrawal from dating scenarios. Angus emphasizes that understanding this psychological component is crucial for resolving these issues, and Mojo adopts holistic practices for its users.

The app offers techniques and exercises aimed at enhancing sexual well-being, modeled after successful practices used in psychotherapy. Angus emphasizes breaking down online barriers that typically prevent young men from seeking help, by making interventions accessible and affordable. However, they identified a gap in individualized support—namely, the therapeutic alliance essential for successful outcomes in therapy.

Mojo has pivoted towards incorporating AI technology into its platform to fill the gap in real human interaction. Angus discusses the ongoing evolution of this AI-driven system that allows for dynamic conversations and personalized guidance while ensuring user safety. He responds to skepticism about AI in therapy, arguing that it serves as a tool for enhancing personal connections rather than replacing them. The technology aims to facilitate users in building real relationships and confidence.

In wrapping up, Angus provides a vital piece of advice for young men grappling with these issues: to initiate candid conversations with friends. He advocates that sharing experiences can significantly lessen feelings of shame surrounding sexual issues, leading to better mental health and relational connections.