#257 Masculinity as Performance: Beyond the Character (with Ty Miller)

On this episode of #mensexpleasure, I chat with Ty Miller, a former sociology and criminology professor turned UX researcher, and a professional wrestler who performs under the persona “Dr. Jordan Tyler.” Ty shares how his passion for storytelling weaves through his academic, creative, and athletic pursuits, and how stepping into an exaggerated wrestling character allows him to explore themes of ego, bravado, and masculinity in a socially acceptable way. We discuss the tension between authenticity and performance, the rise of anti-intellectualism, and how figures—from wrestlers to politicians—use persona to influence perception. Ty also reflects on the performative nature of masculinity, the physical ideals imposed on men, and his efforts to challenge and subvert those norms inside and outside the wrestling ring.

Key Points:

Introductions and background

Cam and Ty introduce themselves and discuss their backgrounds. Ty shares that he is a former sociology and criminology professor who now works in UX research, and is also a professional wrestler who goes by the persona of "Dr. Jordan Tyler". They discuss their shared passion for storytelling and how it connects their various pursuits.

Navigating personas and authenticity

Cam and Ty explore the tension between their authentic selves and the personas they present, particularly in Ty's wrestling character. They discuss the catharsis and social acceptability of embodying an exaggerated, arrogant version of oneself, and how that differs from public figures like Donald Trump who blur the line between character and reality.

The rise of anti-intellectualism

Ty shares his experiences as an academic facing skepticism and dismissal of his expertise, and how he has grappled with that in his wrestling persona. They discuss the broader societal trend of anti-intellectualism, and how figures like Trump have capitalized on it by positioning themselves as anti-elitist while wielding real power.

Masculinity and performativity

Ty and Cam delve into the complex relationship between masculinity, performance, and identity. They explore how traditional notions of masculinity are socially constructed, the pressures wrestlers face to conform to certain physical ideals, and Ty's efforts to challenge and subvert those norms through his wrestling persona and content.

Recap and next steps

Cam and Ty wrap up the conversation, with Ty expressing gratitude for the community of men working to promote healthier masculinity. They discuss plans to continue their dialogue and collaboration in the future.

Relevant Links:

Instagram and TikTok: @jordantylerpro_