What an incredible year it has been! In this special year-end wrap-up episode of The Meaning of Men, I reflect back on the first amazing 12 months of the podcast, revisiting the conversations that shaped a deeper, more honest exploration of modern masculinity. Sixty episodes in, the defining question at the heart of the show feels more relevant than ever: what does it truly mean to be a man today? Featuring highlights from some of the worlds leading thinkers, researchers, authors and clinicians, this episode explores the shifting role of men in a world of changing gender dynamics, the complexities of men’s mental health, and why simply “telling men to talk” isn’t enough. From the science of dopamine and rejection, to fatherhood, male friendships, anger, fun, sleep, and purpose, each segment reveals practical insights into how men can live with greater resilience, connection, and meaning. Whether you’re new to The Meaning of Men or have listened since episode one, this episode is both a celebration and a call to keep asking better questions. I'll see you again in the first week of January 2026 for Season 4! Timestamps: 01:10: The Impact of Gender Roles on Men 04:32: The Challenge of Men's Mental Health Conversations 05:06: Creating Safe Spaces for Vulnerability 07:17: The Importance of Fathers in Child Development 07:31: Father Figures and Mental Health Outcomes 09:28: Understanding Dopamine: The Drive for More 11:54: The Cycle of Dissatisfaction and Happiness 13:57: Understanding Rejection: An Evolutionary Perspective 13:58: The Psychological Impact of Rejection 16:15: Reclaiming Fun in Our Lives 16:35: The Impact of a Fun-Starved Life 21:23: Understanding Anger: A Misunderstood Emotion 21:45: Harnessing Anger for Personal Growth 24:05: The Impact of Social Media on Masculinity 24:34: Mainstream Masculinity Influencers and Their Effects 29:23: Practical Strategies for Better Sleep 32:10: Navigating Stress and Presence 32:39: The Concept of the Third Space 35:38: The Search for Meaning in Men's Lives 35:56: Understanding Meaning Beyond Feelings 39:54: Celebrating a Year of Insights 40:24: Looking Ahead to Season Four

What if masculinity influencers aren’t the real problem, but a symptom of something much deeper? Across the world, boys and young men are being pulled into the Manosphere in huge numbers. But behind the clickbait headlines and media panic lies a more important question: why are so many boys going there in the first place? In the Season 3 finale The Meaning of Men I speak with psychotherapist Will Adolphy, who brings a rare, first-hand perspective on the Manosphere having been drawn into these spaces himself as a young man. Will unpacks the emotional, cultural and psychological forces that make boys vulnerable to online influencers, and why simply blaming the internet misses the real issue.   In this episode you will learn: What draws boys to the Manosphere, and why it’s often more about belonging, structure and identity than misogyny Will’s own personal journey through the Manosphere and what helped him break free from it Why banning influencers doesn’t work, and the deeper cultural issues that must be addressed Practical tools for having healthier conversations with boys without shaming, silencing or creating resistance This episode is essential listening for anyone interested in boys’ development, men’s mental health, online influence and masculinity. It offers clarity, nuance and practical guidance for navigating one of the most misunderstood forces shaping young men today. Hear more from Will: Instagram - @psychwillWebsite - www.willadolphy.com Documentary - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EmXsSNOpZ44&t=20s Timestamps: 03:03: The Role of Masculinity in Modern Society 07:14: Defining the Manosphere: Communities and Influences 11:04: The Impact of Online Spaces on Young Men 12:54: Personal Journeys: From Vulnerability to Empowerment 22:18: The Need for Empathy and Guidance in Masculinity 24:11: The Internalisation of Masculine Ideals 30:55: Turning Points: The Shift Towards Healing and Self-Discovery 36:21: Ingredients for Recovery: Building a New Path 43:57: Exploring Self-Discovery and Balance 48:14: The Importance of Vulnerability and Non-Judgmental Spaces 55:09: Engaging Boys and Men in Meaningful Conversations 58:51: Shifting Perspectives on Masculinity and Empathy 01:05:56: Creating Safe Spaces for Open Dialogue 01:11:03: The Future of Boys and Men: Hope and Empowerment

What happens when men in suicidal crisis finally get the right kind of help, fast? Across the UK, thousands of men are reaching breaking point, yet most don’t know where to turn. In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I speak with Andrew Noon, Head of Centre at James' Place, a pioneering charity delivering life-saving therapy to men in suicidal crisis. Andrew reveals why suicide remains the leading cause of death for men under 50, why so many men feel trapped by life events rather than mental illness, and how rapid-access support can stop a crisis becoming fatal. In this episode you will learn: Why suicide in men is at the highest rate since 1999, and why young men are increasingly at risk How life events like relationship breakdown, financial stress, bereavement and work pressure often trigger suicidal crisis How James’s Place offers free, immediate, professional therapy within days (sometimes hours) The early signs of suicidal crisis and how to spot them through behaviour, mood, withdrawal, or subtle “breadcrumbs” How friends, partners, colleagues and family can support a man in crisis without causing shutdown Why men do talk - when we create the right context for them to open up This episode is essential listening for anyone who cares about men’s mental health, suicide prevention, emotional wellbeing, and early intervention. It highlights how the right support, offered quickly, compassionately, and without judgement, can save lives.   Timestamps: 00:00: The Mission of James's Place 03:04: James's Legacy and the Impact of Suicide 05:57: Understanding the Crisis: Trends in Male Suicide 09:06: The Pathway to Support: How Men Access Help 11:56: The Unique Intervention: Lay Your Cards on the Table 17:09: Common Struggles: What Men Face in Crisis 23:18: Recognising Signs: How to Support Men in Crisis 29:05: Lessons Learned: Insights from Working with Men 38:05: A Message of Hope: Recovery is Possible

What if the doctor you finally opened up to about your mental health had no training to actually help you? In this episode of The Meaning of Men I'm joined by Dr. Bob Smith, physician, researcher, and author of Has Medicine Lost Its Mind?, to uncover a shocking truth about modern healthcare: most primary care doctors receive almost no formal training in mental health. For men, who are already less likely to seek support and more likely to be misunderstood, the consequences can be profound.   In this episode, you will learn: Why most GPs lack proper mental health training How men’s symptoms get misread due to gender bias in healthcare The reasons depression in men often shows up as anger, withdrawal, or substance use What to do if your doctor doesn’t fully understand your mental health concerns Practical strategies for getting the help you need, even in a system that isn’t built for men A must-listen for anyone passionate about improving men’s mental health, raising awareness, and changing a system that too often leaves men behind.Here more from Dr Robert: Website: https://www.robertcsmithmd.com/ X: https://x.com/RobertCSmithMD Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RobertCSmithMD Bob's Blog: https://www.robertcsmithmd.com/psychology-today-blog/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertcsmithmd/ Timestamps: 03:26: Personal Journey and Catalyst for Change 09:15: The Historical Context of Mental Health in Medicine 14:50: The Crisis of Mental Health Care 20:22: Cultural Attitudes Towards Mental Health 24:46: The Societal Impact of Misdiagnosis 27:00: Navigating Conversations with Health Professionals 31:47: Advocating for Systemic Change in Medical Training 39:10: Hope for the Future of Mental Health Care  

In this special episode of The Meaning of Men, host Simeon Atkins reacts to a landmark moment: England’s first-ever national Men’s Health Strategy. After years of conversation and awareness-raising, this strategy signals a major shift toward systemic, long-term action to improve the health and wellbeing of boys and men. We break down the key themes from the newly released report, which openly acknowledges the unique challenges men face, without caveats or defensiveness. The strategy centres on a simple question: How do we help men live healthier, longer and happier lives? To answer that, it outlines three core aims: making healthcare easier to access, supporting healthier choices, and creating environments that help men thrive. We explore the six pillars underpinning the plan and highlight the broader significance of this moment, the potential impact on future generations, and the big questions that still need answering.   Link to the full Men's Health Strategy Report: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/691c8a7b5a253e2c40d706ee/mens-health-a-strategic-vision-for-england.pdf

Are young men in Britain facing a silent crisis? Education dropout rates, workforce withdrawal, and worsening men's mental health suggest something deeper is going on. In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I'm joined by Mark Brooks OBE, Director of Policy & Communications at the Centre for Policy Research on Boys and Men and co-author of The Missing Men report; one of the most comprehensive studies on the state of men and boys in the UK. In this episode you will learn: Why so many boys are falling behind in education What’s driving men’s withdrawal from the workforce The urgent need for a dedicated men’s health strategy How post-pandemic shifts continue to shape men’s lives The “green shoots” of progress—community action, culture change, and reasons for hope   Hear more from Mark: Centre for Policy Research on Men and Boys: www.menandboys.org.uk LinkedIn: centre-policy-research-menboys Association of Male Health and Wellbeing:www.amhw.org.uk Mark Brooks: www.mark-brooks.co.uk LinkedIn: mark-brooks-obe   Timestamps: 06:11: International Men's Day: Significance and Impact 11:58: The Missing Men Report: Understanding NEETs 15:42: The Impact of Unemployment on Young Men 21:24: The Gender Gap in Education 25:51: Employment Challenges and Economic Factors 34:07: Understanding the Prison Population

What does it really mean for a man to feel enough? Many men struggle with identity, purpose and self acceptance, often tying their worth to performance, achievement and strength. In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I speak with Jim Galvin, former Royal Marine and international athlete, about his lifelong search for belonging and meaning. Jim brings a rare perspective on masculinity, resilience and personal growth shaped by both military life and elite sport. The brotherhood, structure, and identity formed through the Royal Marines How elite athletic training shaped Jim’s understanding of discipline and self-worth The impact of losing his best friend to suicide and the role of grief in men’s mental health Why physical challenge can be a tool for healing, recovery, and emotional clarity How to practise self-acceptance, self-forgiveness, and allow joy even in chaos Why many men connect their value to performance and how to build confidence from who you are, not just what you do This conversation is for anyone interested in men’s mental health, masculinity, resilience, and the deeper question of what it means to live a meaningful and grounded life.   Hear more from Jim: https://www.youtube.com/@jimgalvin2191   Timestamps: 02:24: Understanding Early Influences 05:16: The Journey into the Royal Marines 09:06: Finding Purpose in Military Life 11:48: Transitioning to International Sport 14:48: Redefining Identity Beyond Physicality 16:36: Evolving Perspectives on Masculinity 18:42: Reflections on War and Peace 22:14: The Struggles of Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life 23:13: Navigating the First Year After Leaving the Marines 25:54: Coping with Loss: The Impact of Suicide on Veterans 28:41: Honouring a Friend: The Weight of Grief and Memory 35:21: Finding Happiness Amidst Chaos 42:58: Building a Community: The Joy of Fitness Coaching  

What happens when science takes on one of men’s most taboo topics? In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I speak with John Boghossian, co founder of Kadence Bio, the biotech company developing what could become the first FDA approved treatment for premature ejaculation (PE). John discusses his mission to close what he calls the intimacy gap, the three to one difference in average climax time between men and women, and why solving this issue could positively impact men’s sexual health, confidence, mental wellbeing and relationships. In this episode you will learn: What premature ejaculation actually is and why it is far more common than most people realise How shame, silence and stigma prevent men from seeking support The science behind Kadence Bio’s on demand treatment and why it represents a breakthrough in sexual health innovation How improving sexual function can influence mental health, relationship satisfaction and overall quality of life Why changing cultural narratives around men’s sexual health matters just as much as medical progress This conversation is about vulnerability, evidence based science and the courage to challenge long standing taboos. It is an essential listen for men and for partners who want a deeper understanding of sexual wellbeing and intimate connection. Hear more from John: Website: kadencebio.com LinkedIn linkedin.com/company/kadence-bio X https://x.com/KadenceBio LinkedIn (personal) linkedin.com/in/johnboghossian   Timestamps: 05:22: Understanding Premature Ejaculation 10:16: The Impact of PE on Mental Health and Relationships 12:26: Distinguishing PE from Erectile Dysfunction 15:06: Overcoming Shame and Seeking Help 16:27: Current Treatment Options for PE 19:02: Supporting Partners in Addressing PE 22:51: The Science Behind New Treatments 28:27: Final Thoughts on PE and Seeking Help

What’s the mask you wear, and what might be hiding underneath it? In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I speak with Ashanti Branch, founder of The Ever Forward Club and creator of the Million Mask Movement. We explore the emotional lives of boys and men, the feelings we hide, the stories we learn to tell ourselves, and what it truly takes to live with authenticity, purpose and emotional honesty. Ashanti shares his journey from growing up in Oakland, California without a father to becoming a teacher who began noticing the same patterns he lived through in his own students. Many young men were hiding behind masks of toughness, humour and indifference, while struggling silently with fear, pressure and self doubt. This insight inspired him to start The Ever Forward Club, a space that encourages boys to talk openly about what is happening beneath the surface. What began as a small lunch group has since grown into a global movement that invites men everywhere to remove the masks that limit them and reconnect with who they really are. In this episode you will learn: Why so many boys and men feel pressure to appear strong and emotionless How masks of toughness, humour or indifference form and how they affect mental health The influence of online role models and cultural expectations on young men The deep need for safety, belonging and meaningful connection How vulnerability and strength can work together rather than compete Practical ways to create spaces where honesty, compassion and emotional expression can thrive This conversation offers insight for anyone interested in men’s mental health, masculinity, emotional wellbeing and the lifelong process of becoming your true self.   Hear more from Ashanti: Website & Socials:EFC Website: https://everforwardclub.org/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-clubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@everforwardclubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclub/BookDiary of a Confused EducatorUpcoming EventsGlobal Young Men's Conference, Nov 8th: https://everforwardclub.org/global-young-mens-conference-2025    Timestamps: 05:15: The Ever Forward Program and Its Impact 08:10: Understanding the Masks We Wear 12:56: Emotional Struggles of Young Men 23:41: Navigating Expectations and Authenticity 24:35: The Influence of Online Figures on Young Men 29:17: The Power and Danger of Sound Bites 32:58: Understanding Addiction and Emotional Health 37:08: Messages of Hope and Finding Authentic Connections

When, and how, does a boy truly become a man? In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I speak with Ewan Corlett, a men’s guide and therapist who specialises in masculinity, rites of passage and the transition from boyhood to manhood. We explore one of the most overlooked and misunderstood stages in modern life: how a boy develops the emotional maturity, self leadership and grounded identity required to live as a healthy, integrated man. Drawing from his own story of addiction, recovery and self discovery, Ewan explains what it means to become a self led man who moves through the world with integrity, emotional awareness and purpose. He shares insights from both ancient initiation practices and modern therapeutic work, offering a practical understanding of how men grow, heal and develop inner strength. In this episode you will learn: The difference between becoming an adult and becoming a man Why modern society lacks clear initiation and what this means for male identity How addiction, numbing and unhealthy coping behaviours often emerge from an unfulfilled need for guidance, belonging and purpose The impact of absent male role models and the confusion surrounding masculinity today How reconnecting with primal, grounded energy supports confidence, emotional regulation and personal responsibility What healthy masculinity can look like in relationships, fatherhood, leadership and community This conversation offers depth and clarity for anyone interested in men’s mental health, masculinity, personal development and rites of passage. It invites you to reflect on your own transition from boyhood to manhood, to recognise the parts of yourself that are still waiting to grow, and to redefine what mature, grounded masculinity can mean for your life and the people you love.   Hear more from Ewan: www.ewancorlett.com @ewan.corlett info@ewancorlett.com Timestamps: 03:41: Ewan's Journey to Self-Discovery 06:29: The Transition from Boy to Man 09:32: Rites of Passage and Male Initiation 11:23: Emotional Regulation and Safety 14:16: Abundance vs. Scarcity Mindset 14:32: The Role of Initiation in Society 15:40: Connecting with the Wild Man 18:29: Integrating Strength and Wisdom 21:44: Embracing Adversity and Ego 26:30: The Role of Fathers and Male Initiation 30:19: Creating Safe Spaces for Boys 31:23: Understanding Masculinity and Toxicity 36:38: Modern Day Initiation and Self-Discovery  

Do you ever feel like you are constantly rushing from one thing to the next without ever catching your breath? In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I speak with Dr. Adam Fraser, researcher, keynote speaker and author of The Third Space, to explore one of the most overlooked skills in modern life: how we transition between the different spaces and roles of our day. Adam’s work has transformed how leaders, teams and families understand stress, recovery and presence. His research shows that the simple ability to pause, reflect and reset between moments can significantly improve mood, performance, emotional connection and overall wellbeing. We explore why so many men carry stress from one role into the next, how this affects relationships and mental health, and what it looks like to use small micro transitions to show up with more intention and clarity. In this episode you will learn: What the Third Space is and why it is crucial for mental health and emotional regulation How micro transitions can reduce stress, improve focus and support healthier relationships Why men often struggle to switch off or shift gears throughout the day Practical tools to help you reset between work, home, parenting and personal time How presence, reflection and even brief pauses can transform how you lead, communicate and connect Whether you are a father, partner, leader, athlete or friend, this conversation offers practical, research backed strategies to help you move through life with greater presence, calm and purpose.   Hear more from Dr Adam: The Third Space Book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Third-Space-Transitions-Balance-Happiness/dp/1459642708   Timestamps: 02:26: Understanding the Third Space 05:54: The Importance of Transitioning 12:12: The Three Phases: Reflect, Rest, Reset 17:35: Practical Applications of the Third Space 20:55: Emotional Availability and Relationships 28:10: The Fleeting Nature of Moments 30:06: The Importance of Being Present 32:17: Transitioning from Work to Home 35:27: Adapting to Remote Work 38:28: The Role of Rituals in Relationships 39:21: Nurturing Friendships 41:09: The Power of Communication 45:14: The Transformative Impact of the Third Space

What if your midlife crisis is not a breakdown but a breakthrough? In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I speak with Olly Hermon-Taylor, a men’s coach and mentor who helps men navigate midlife transitions, rediscover purpose, and live with authenticity and direction. Olly shares his own story of building a seven-figure business, losing everything, and rebuilding from within, offering lessons that resonate with men in their 30s, 40s, and 50s who feel stuck, disconnected or unsure of their next step. In this episode you will learn: Why midlife is often a turning point rather than a crisis The four masculine archetypes — King, Warrior, Magician and Lover — and how balancing them can bring clarity and wholeness How to reconnect with core values, mission and purpose before life forces change Practical strategies for reflection, decision making, and embracing transformation Why rediscovering meaning in midlife can improve confidence, relationships and overall wellbeing This conversation is a grounded, honest, and hopeful guide for men seeking to understand midlife transitions, masculinity, personal growth and how to turn challenging periods into opportunities for transformation.   Hear more from Olly: https://www.instagram.com/ollyht https://www.linkedin.com/in/olly-hermon-taylor/   Timestamps: 00:00: The Struggles of Midlife Men 07:42: Olly's Journey to Self-Discovery 09:48: Understanding Midlife Crisis 17:04: Exploring Archetypes in Men's Lives 20:41: The Balance of Archetypes: King, Warrior, Magician, Lover 25:18: The Importance of Service in Masculinity 25:39: Understanding Purpose vs. Meaning 30:32: Core Values and Boundary Setting 35:51: Preparing for Life's Transitions 40:05: Embracing Your Unique Journey    

Could connection be the missing prescription in men’s health? In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I speak with Dr. Henry Aughterson, junior doctor, researcher, and advocate for community-based healthcare. We explore the concept of social prescribing, a growing movement that connects people with local activities to improve wellbeing and address the root causes of mental distress. Dr. Henry explains why men often find it easier to connect shoulder to shoulder through shared activities. From football clubs and gardening groups to choirs, these spaces reduce loneliness, foster purpose, and help men feel part of something bigger. His research highlights real stories of men who describe these social groups as the single most important step in their mental health journey. In this episode you will learn: How social prescribing can improve men’s mental health, reduce isolation and build community Why shared activities are a powerful way for men to form meaningful connections The role of vulnerability and self-care in men's emotional wellbeing How community, purpose and belonging support resilience and life satisfaction Practical ways to find or create spaces that strengthen mental health and connection This conversation is a guide for anyone interested in men’s health, loneliness, emotional wellbeing, and how connection, community and meaningful activity can transform lives.   Timestamps: 01:50: Journey to Medicine 04:44: Life as an NHS Doctor 04:50: Mental Health Challenges 11:39: Understanding Social Prescribing 22:29: The Role of Social Prescribing for Men 28:49: Addressing the Needs of Young Men 38:04: The Importance of Meaning in Healthcare

What if the key to raising healthier men starts with teaching boys to trust their emotions? In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I speak with Kimmi Berlin, founder of Build Up Boys, an organisation dedicated to helping young boys retain and develop their innate emotional intelligence. We explore how boys, sometimes as young as five, begin trading pieces of their emotional wholeness for social acceptance and the long-term effects this has on mental health, relationships, and identity. Kimmi shares practical strategies for parents, educators, and mentors, including how to replace phrases like “you’re okay” with curiosity, teach body autonomy, foster empathy, and build conflict resolution skills through play. These early interventions can help boys grow into men who are confident, emotionally aware, and capable of forming deeper connections. In this episode you will learn: Why supporting boys’ emotional intelligence is critical for long-term mental health How societal pressures encourage emotional suppression and what parents can do to counter it Tools and exercises to help boys develop empathy, self-awareness, and resilience How early emotional education leads to healthier friendships, stronger families, and more connected men The impact of nurturing vulnerability and emotional honesty on boys’ future wellbeing This episode is essential listening for anyone interested in raising emotionally healthy boys, men’s mental health, and creating a generation of men who can connect authentically with themselves and others.   Hear more from Kimmi: www.buildupboys.com   https://youtube.com/@buildupboys7351?si=Wi9ObA8jXFE5z0tO   https://motherwellmag.com/2025/04/09/adolescence-call-to-action-build-up-boys/amp/   https://www.popsugar.com/family/promising-young-woman-illustrates-need-to-teach-consent-48213626   Timestamps:   07:04: The Importance of Early Emotional Education 13:09: Navigating Emotions: Anger and Beyond 21:17: Consequences of Emotional Suppression in Adulthood 25:13: Building Emotional Awareness in Boys 30:22: Fostering Emotional Intelligence at Home 32:55: Small Changes for Big Impacts 37:25: Positive Changes Observed in Boys 42:26: The Power of Kindness in Raising Boys    

How can we redefine masculinity in a way that empowers men and boys? In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I speak with Dr. Brendan Kwiatkowski-Hartman, researcher, educator, and consultant, about one of the most complex and debated topics in modern life: masculinity. Brendan’s work is driven by personal experience, including the tragic loss of a student to suicide, which inspired him to explore how boys’ struggles are shaped by both biology and social pressures. We discuss why terms like toxic masculinity often create division, and why men and boys need guidance on embracing masculinity positively instead of simply being told what not to do. Brendan shares how reframing masculinity around safety, authenticity, emotional awareness, and self alignment can help men lead healthier lives and build stronger communities. In this episode you will learn: How societal expectations influence boys and men from an early age The difference between restrictive and empowering forms of masculinity Strategies for educators, parents, and communities to support positive male development How embracing authenticity, responsibility, and emotional literacy fosters resilience and wellbeing Why curiosity and nuance are essential when talking about masculinity today This conversation offers insight for anyone interested in men’s mental health, positive masculinity, emotional wellbeing, and creating environments where boys and men can thrive.   Hear more from Brendan: www.remasculine.com   Timestamps: 02:01: Brendan's Journey: From Teacher to Masculinity Advocate 03:50: Defining Masculinity: Beliefs, Behaviors, and Roles 06:32: The Demonization of Masculinity: Impact on Society 10:03: Toxic Masculinity: A Misunderstood Concept 11:58: Restrictive Masculinity: Harmful Beliefs and Behaviors 15:45: Reframing Masculinity: A Personal Evolution 19:18: The Fluidity of Masculinity: Personal Experiences 23:48: Authenticity in Masculinity: Finding Inner Confidence 25:58: The Balance of Masculinity 27:53: Navigating the Gray Areas of Masculinity 32:49: Understanding Rites of Passage 38:37: Breaking the Trauma Triangle 46:11: The Epidemic of Male Lonelines

What do men really want and need from therapy? In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I speak with Dr. Zac Seidler, Clinical Psychologist and Director of Research at Movember, about why therapy often fails men and how it can be improved. Drawing on groundbreaking research, Zac explains that 44% of men drop out of therapy early, not because of cost or inconvenience, but because they do not feel a genuine connection with their therapist. We explore the unique challenges men face in seeking help, including cultural expectations, societal pressure, and therapeutic approaches that do not reflect men’s lived experiences. Zac shares practical strategies for therapists, including being direct, goal-focused, and culturally aware of masculinity, to better engage male clients. We also discuss Movember’s Men in Mind programme, which trains therapists to understand men’s mental health, improve connection, and reduce dropout rates. In this episode you will learn: Why men are less likely to seek therapy and the barriers that prevent engagement How traditional therapy models can fail to meet men’s needs Practical approaches for therapists to create a safe, effective space for male clients The role of masculinity and cultural norms in shaping men’s mental health experiences How programs like Men in Mind are improving outcomes for men This conversation is essential for anyone interested in men’s mental health, therapy for men, reducing stigma, and creating supportive environments where men can access the help they need.   Hear more from Dr Zac: Men in Mind programme: https://meninmind.movember.com/   More research and articles from Movember: https://movember.substack.com/   Timestamps: 13:24: Understanding Therapy: Men’s Experiences and Expectations 22:50: Creating Safe Spaces: The Importance of Connection in Therapy 24:58: The Call for Help in Men's Mental Health 27:31: Understanding Vulnerability and Communication 29:53: Navigating Traditional and Contemporary Masculinity 30:34: Stereotypes and Therapy: The Masculinity Barrier 33:28: Personal Connection in Therapy 36:30: Redefining Therapy: A Strength-Based Approach 41:46: Movember's Initiatives for Men's Mental Health Awareness  

What truly defines being a man today? In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I sit down with Richard Reeves, founder of the American Institute for Boys and Men, chair of the UK Centre for Policy Research on Men and Boys, and author of Of Boys and Men. Richard is one of the world’s leading thinkers on the challenges facing boys and men today, offering insights into how society can better support male development, wellbeing, and purpose. In this episode you will learn: Why this moment represents a turning point in how masculinity is understood and discussed How solutions are being built to tackle education gaps, male mental health, and systems that support fathers Why progress for men does not have to come at the expense of women The importance of positive role models and countering negative online influences on boys and men How work, family, and community can help men reconnect with purpose Why fatherhood is transformative not only for children but for men themselves This conversation offers insight into men’s wellbeing, masculinity, fatherhood, and creating cultural solutions that empower the next generation. It is a must-listen for anyone curious about what it means to be a man today.   Hear more from Richard Reeves:Book - Of Boys & Men: https://www.brookings.edu/books/of-boys-and-men/ Organisation - The American Institute for Boys & Men: https://aibm.org/Timestamps: 03:43: The Evolving Conversation on Boys and Men 06:35: The Thermometer of Societal Conversations 09:45Z: ero Sum Game: A New Perspective 12:30: Cultural Shifts and Their Impact on Men 15:31: The Need for New Masculine Scripts 18:27: Agency and Confidence in Modern Masculinity 21:39: Mental Health Challenges Facing Men 33:37: The Cumulative Impact of Male Suicide Rates 39:52: The Gender Gap in Education 45:24: Addressing Developmental Differences in Boys 47:22: The NEET Crisis: Young Men Disconnected 52:35: The Importance of Fatherhood 01:01:26: Advocating for Boys and Men: Policy Changes      

What if the struggles you face are really symptoms of hidden trauma? In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I speak with Michael Baldwin, author and survivor, about EMDR therapy and its transformational impact on healing trauma. Michael shares his personal journey of living with the unresolved effects of childhood abuse, including anxiety, phobias, nightmares, and a relentless drive for achievement that never filled the emotional void—until he discovered EMDR, an evidence-based therapy that helped him finally process and release trauma. In this episode you will learn: How “hidden trauma” from experiences like bullying, neglect, or parental divorce can affect identity, relationships, and self-worth The science behind EMDR therapy and why it is recognised by leading health organisations How trauma symptoms often show up in everyday life without being recognised as trauma Practical insights into how processing trauma can improve emotional wellbeing, relationships, and personal growth Michael’s story of transformation and how healing trauma can repair important relationships and foster resilience This conversation is essential for anyone interested in men’s mental health, trauma recovery, EMDR therapy, and understanding how early experiences continue to shape our lives. Hear more from Michael:  https://www.everymemorydeservesrespect.com Timestamps: 03:15: The Journey of Healing: Personal Experiences with Trauma 05:38: The Impact of EMDR Therapy: A New Approach 08:37: The Book: Every Memory Deserves Respect 08:40: Defining EMDR Therapy: A Simplified Explanation 11:07: The Structure of an EMDR Session 13:47: Recognising Unresolved Trauma: Signs and Symptoms 16:22: The Path to EMDR: A Personal Journey 18:59: Common Patterns of Unresolved Trauma in Men 22:51: The Journey Through Therapy 25:53: Understanding Trauma and Identity 30:42: Shame, Self-Compassion, and EMDR 36:19: Healing Relationships Through EMDR  

What does it really mean to be yourself when the world tries to define you? In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I speak with award-winning poet and author Dean Atta about identity, masculinity, and living authentically. Dean shares his personal journey growing up in a mixed-race, single-parent family, how writing helped him process emotions and claim his identity, and his experience coming out as gay while navigating stigma and societal expectations. In this episode you will learn: How personal identity is shaped by family, culture, and society The role of creative expression and writing in processing emotions and building self-confidence Why traditional stereotypes of masculinity can be limiting and harmful How vulnerability, authenticity, and creativity are forms of strength for men Ways to embrace openness, self-acceptance, and resilience in everyday life This conversation is a heartfelt exploration of masculinity, mental health, and authentic self-expression, offering insight and inspiration for anyone interested in identity, personal growth, and rethinking what it means to be a man today.       Hear more from Dean: www.deanatta.com Confetti: A colourful celebration of love and life https://www.hachette.co.uk/titles/dean-atta/confetti/9781408362082/ I Can't Even Think Straight: A queer coming of age story https://www.hachette.co.uk/titles/dean-atta/i-cant-even-think-straight/9781444960969/ Person Unlimited: An Ode to My Black Queer Body https://buythebook.online/person-unlimited-dean-atta   Timestamps: 03:09: Identity and Background Exploration 04:57: The Journey of Coming Out 12:02: Support Systems and Chosen Family 15:10: Redefining Masculinity and Queerness 16:54: Navigating Identity and Safety 18:53: Redefining Masculinity 23:50: Exploring Strength and Vulnerability 26:21: The Role of Poetry in Identity 33:18: Acceptance and Healing Through Writing  

Are UK dads being set up to fail before they even start? In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I speak with Alex Lloyd Hunter, co-founder of The Dad Shift, about the urgent need for better paternity leave in the UK. Alex highlights how our outdated system affects fathers, mothers, families, and society, and explores the benefits of reforms already proven in other countries. In this episode you will learn: How limited paternity leave impacts men’s mental health, family bonding, and gender equality The positive effects of early father involvement on children’s emotional and cognitive development How countries with generous, well-paid paternity leave create stronger families and healthier societies Why reforming the first weeks of parenthood can transform relationships, parenting, and even the economy Practical steps for fathers, partners, and employers to advocate for meaningful change This conversation is essential for anyone interested in fatherhood, men’s wellbeing, gender equality, and family policy, offering insight into how supporting dads from the start benefits everyone.   Hear more from The Dad Shift: https://action.dadshift.org.uk/a/back-better-paternity-leave??utm_source=&utm_medium=&utm_campaign=12-08-25-podcast-MoM   Timestamps 03:06: The Birth of The Dad Shift 06:15: Paternity Leave: A Comparative Analysis 09:39: Success Stories from Abroad 10:32: The Ripple Effects of Paternity Leave 14:24: Facing Resistance to Change 17:59: The Importance of Fathers 20:20: Benefits of Paternity Leave 23:15: The Evolving Role of Fathers 24:37: The Importance of Bonding and Relationships 26:41: Postnatal Depression and Its Impact on Fathers 29:31: The Pressure of Returning to Work 31:53: Presence vs. Attendance in Parenting 34:52: Workplace Support for Paternity Leave 38:20: The Dad Shift Campaign and Future Goals