Richard Reeves, an expert on gender dynamics and author of "Of Boys and Men," shares insights on the challenges men face today. He highlights how the educational system is failing them and the misconceptions surrounding masculinity. There’s a push for redefining masculinity to include a range of emotions beyond anger, emphasizing emotional intelligence and vulnerability. Reeves also discusses the societal pressures contributing to the pessimism among young men and the importance of mentorship and clear communication in navigating these complex dynamics.

In this conversation, Richard Reeves, the author and president of the American Institute for Boys and Men, discusses the struggles young men face today amidst evolving societal expectations. He emphasizes the need for strong male role models to guide young men in avoiding radicalization. The chat also touches on the delicate balance of addressing men's issues without negating women’s experiences. Through personal anecdotes as a father, Reeves advocates for understanding the complexities of teenage identity and stresses the importance of fostering a supportive environment for boys.

Sean Illing talks with author, researcher, and Brookings Institution senior fellow Richard V. Reeves about his new book Of Boys and Men, which documents the ways that males all over the industrialized world are struggling — and what to do about it. Sean and Richard talk about how this crisis among men has its roots in the progress societies have made toward gender equality, about what has been exposed as the playing field has become more level, and about how to challenge our traditional understandings of masculinity and fatherhood in order to address the crisis — which, Reeves says, will be to everybody's benefit.Host: Sean Illing (@seanilling), host, The Gray AreaGuest: Richard V. Reeves (@RichardvReeves), author; senior fellow, Brookings Institution; director, Future of the Middle Class InitiativeReferences:  Of Boys And Men: Why the Modern Male Is Struggling, Why It Matters, and What to Do about It by Richard V. Reeves (Brookings; 2022) "The State of American Friendship: Change, Challenges, and Loss" by Daniel A. Cox (American Survey Center; June 8, 2021) Unbound: How Inequality Constricts Our Economy and What We Can Do about It by Heather Boushey (Harvard; 2019) "Gender Achievement Gaps in U.S. School Districts" by Sean F. Reardon et al. (American Educational Research Journal vol. 56 (6); Apr. 25, 2019) "The GOP's masculinity panic: David French on the cult of toughness on the Trumpist right" by Sean Illing (Jan. 5; episode here or here) "Infrastructure Bill Must Create Pathways for Women To Enter Construction Trades" by Marina Zhavoronkova and Rose Khattar (Center for American Progress; Sept. 20) 12 Rules for Life by Jordan B. Peterson (Random House Canada; 2018) "Few Good Men" by Kathryn Edin (American Prospect; Dec. 19, 2001) "Redshirt the Boys: Why boys should start school a year later than girls" by Richard V. Reeves (The Atlantic; Sept. 14) "What might interrupt men's suicide? Results from an online survey of men" by Fiona L. Shand et al. (BMJ vol. 5 (10); Oct. 15, 2015)  Enjoyed this episode? Rate The Gray Area ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ and leave a review on Apple Podcasts.Subscribe for free. Be the first to hear the next episode of The Gray Area. Subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Support The Gray Area by making a financial contribution to Vox! bit.ly/givepodcastsThis episode was made by:  Producer: Erikk Geannikis Editor: Amy Drozdowska Engineer: Patrick Boyd Editorial Director, Vox Talk: A.M. Hall Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this engaging discussion, Richard Reeves, founder of the American Institute for Boys and Men and author of 'Of Boys and Men,' tackles the evolving struggles of young men in today’s society. He explores the political dynamics leading up to the 2024 election, analyzing why young men might feel alienated. Reeves addresses the intersection of gender and economic issues, advocating for inclusivity in political messaging. He also delves into the importance of redefining masculinity and fostering community engagement to offer new sources of meaning for men.

The hosts discuss the book 'Of Boys and Men' by Richard V. Reeves, exploring the struggles of modern men, toxic masculinity, personal agency, and systemic failure. They also critique the book's lack of focus on empathy and explore the relevance of its concepts to Singapore. The speakers emphasize the responsibility of addressing gender issues and redefining masculinity.