In this insightful conversation, Ben shares with Jayda how he works with boys and men to explore what masculinity means to them, and why Ben doesn’t have the answer but instead has the questions that help them define their own perspectives. Jayda and Ben discuss the importance of creating safe spaces for boys and men to have vulnerable conversations but also discuss the complexity of being vulnerable and feeling unsafe to many men considering how they have been socialised and the realities for many men. Ben also gives his powerful insight into why many boys and men gravitate towards men like Andrew Tate and how it connects to many boys needing role models of what it means to be a man, and so the importance of more healthy male role models in boys’ lives. Jayda also talks about being pregnant with a baby boy and together with Ben, discusses their thoughts around parenting and raising young boys to be as healthy and loved as possible.

Content Warnings: Suicide

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Beyond Equality

Beyond Equality Website

TEDx Talk - Boys will be boys

Ben Hurst is an activist, educator, host, presenter, podcaster, model, public speaker and the Director of Facilitation and Training at Beyond Equality, a UK-based organisation that engages men and boys in the gender equality conversation across Schools, Universities and Corporate spaces, rethinking masculinities and promoting positive personhood and healthy relationships.

Ben discusses these topics online, most notably in his TEDx Talk, ‘Boys won’t be boys. Boys will be what we teach them to be’, and in print, with features in Stylist magazine, Postscript, GQ and many more.

Ben is also the co-host of TED x London’s Climate Curious podcast where he lifts the lid on the climate emergency by speaking to the world’s leading and most relatable climate pioneers. Ben’s focus is on making important conversations accessible for young people and adults from all walks of life.

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