

Life Kit presents: What's in a dad?
Jun 18, 2022
Gene Demby, host of Code Switch, and comedian Hari Kondabolu engage in a heartfelt discussion about modern fatherhood. They reflect on how to teach their children about race amid diverse identities. Both share personal anecdotes that highlight their nostalgic childhoods and their desire to pass on cultural values. They also tackle the emotional complexities of parenting, exploring joys and challenges while redefining masculinity. It’s a poignant look at what it means to be a father in today's world.
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The Complexity of Fatherhood
- Fatherhood is complicated by evolving gender norms and roles.
- Simply identifying as a "father" can reinforce traditional gender distinctions.
Hari's Father Figure
- Hari Kondabolu's father adhered to traditional South Indian patriarchal norms, avoiding household chores.
- His mother, despite defying gender norms in her youth, reinforced these roles.
Gene's Childhood
- Gene Demby was raised without his father and didn't find the few father figures in his neighborhood desirable.
- He questions the conventional "fatherhood" scripts he received.