The Meaning of Men

What if the first step toward healing isn’t talking, but writing? Creative expression can be a powerful tool for men’s mental health and emotional wellbeing. In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I speak to poet and author Drew Horner about how writing, poetry, and creative outlets can help men navigate grief, anxiety, and emotional isolation. Drew shares his journey of using poetry as therapy during the pandemic and reflects on insights from his book My Life in Pieces. In this episode you will learn: How writing and creative expression support mental health, emotional processing, and self-awareness The role of poetry in navigating grief, anxiety, and emotional isolation Practical ways for men to begin expressing emotions safely, even when talking feels difficult How creative outlets can foster resilience, healing, and personal growth Why putting feelings into words contributes to mental health awareness and emotional wellbeing This conversation is essential for anyone interested in men’s mental health, creative therapy, emotional expression, grief processing, and personal growth, offering inspiration and practical insight into using writing as a tool for healing and self-discovery. Hear more from Drew: My Life in Pieces: https://linktr.ee/TalesoftheNook?lt_utm_source=lt_share_link#275948678 The Rage Whale movie podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6FSLdhTwH9WNMqcePFW31x?si=i_D4fXQfQMySjgRAqKQNXA&nd=1&dlsi=4e32c5bce1fd4008 (also on Instagram: @ragewhale_podcast) Timestamps: 03:39: The Power of Poetry as Emotional Expression 06:51: The Journey of Discovering Poetry 13:38: Life in Pieces: The Meaning Behind the Title 20:48: Resilience and Rebuilding Through Adversity 25:35: The Essence of Poetry and Self-Expression 31:38: The Power of Poetry in Public Spaces 35:34: Exploring the Depths of Emotion 38:29: Mental Health and Vulnerability 41:29: Finding Meaning Through Poetry 44:29: Getting Started with Writing 52:19: Legacy and Impact of Drew's Poetry  

With nearly two-thirds of young men following masculinity influencers, isn’t it time we asked why?  In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I speak to Dr. Krista Fisher from Movember about their latest research, Young Men’s Health in a Digital Age, exploring how digital content and masculinity influencers impact men’s mental health, identity, and relationships. We discuss the rise of these online voices, why young men are drawn to them, and the complex mix of hope and harm they can create. In this episode you will learn: How online spaces and social media influence young men’s mental health, identity, and behaviour Why masculinity influencers attract millions of followers and the messages they convey The potential risks and benefits of consuming online content focused on masculinity Insights from Movember’s research on supporting young men’s health, emotional wellbeing, and personal growth Practical ideas for parents, educators, and mentors to help young men navigate digital pressures This conversation is essential for anyone interested in men’s mental health, youth wellbeing, masculinity, digital culture, and online influence, offering research-backed insight into the challenges and opportunities facing young men today.   Link to the full report: https://uk.movember.com/movember-institute/masculinities-report   Timestamps: 00:00: Introduction to Young Men's Health Research 07:15: Understanding Online Influences on Young Men's Health 12:55: The Impact of Media on Young Men's Perception 17:30: Engaging Young Men in Conversations 21:48: The Role of Masculinity Influencers 27:09: Decoupling Toxicity from Masculinity 34:17: Contradictions in Young Men's Mental Health 39:27: Case Study: Will's Journey with Influencers 42:16: The Search for Masculinity 43:40: Understanding Influences on Young Men 46:03: The Impact of Loneliness 49:03: Social Media: Connection or Isolation? 50:31: Contradictions in Relationships 55:17: Frustrations with Dating 01:03:05: A Healthier World for All 01:08:28: Future Directions for Young Men's Health

What does true gender equality in the home really look like, and how does it impact men’s mental health?  In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I speak to Kate Mangino, gender expert and author of Equal Partners, about the crucial link between household equality, men’s mental health, and emotional resilience. Kate shares research and stories of men worldwide who have embraced equal partnership in their relationships, highlighting the benefits for both partners’ health and happiness. In this episode you will learn: How traditional gender roles and expectations affect men’s emotional health, stress, and resilience The impact of being the “breadwinner,” problem-solver, or “strong, silent type” on men’s mental wellbeing How equal partnership in domestic roles supports mental health, relationship satisfaction, and personal fulfilment Insights from real men who have experienced the benefits of sharing responsibilities at home Practical strategies for creating balanced, healthy, and emotionally fulfilling family dynamics This conversation is essential for anyone interested in men’s mental health, gender equality, relationships, emotional wellbeing, and family life, offering actionable guidance for building more balanced and fulfilling lives for men and their families. Hear more from Kate: Website: https://www.katemangino.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katemangino/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/manginokate22/   Timestamps: 07:10: Defining Gender Equality in the Household 10:14: The Importance of Communication in Partnerships 13:07: The Inspiration Behind 'Equal Partners' 15:55: Challenging Misconceptions About Gender Roles 17:32: The Impact of Gender Equality on Mental Health 25:28: The Perception of Fathers and Their Roles 27:24: The Need for Support Networks for Men 30:01: Gatekeeping in Parenting 32:24: Shaping Gender Equality in the Household 34:38: Challenging Traditional Gender Roles 37:50: The Impact of Gender Equality on Mental Health 41:12: The Importance of Emotional Openness 43:07: Concluding Thoughts on Gender Equality and Self-Care

What does it really take to raise boys into good men in today’s world?  In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I speak to Andrew Reiner, author of Better Boys, Better Men, about the evolving landscape of masculinity, boys’ mental health, and emotional development. Andrew shares insights into the challenges boys face today and how cultural expectations shape their behaviour and wellbeing. In this episode you will learn: Why many boys are struggling emotionally, socially, and academically What the “boy code” is and how it teaches boys to suppress vulnerability and avoid asking for help How fatherhood, mentorship, and role models can support emotional resilience and healthy masculinity Strategies to break the cycle of depression, emotional suppression, and disconnection in boys and young men How to cultivate healthy vulnerability and prepare boys for meaningful, fulfilled adulthood This conversation is essential for anyone interested in men’s mental health, raising boys, emotional intelligence, masculinity, and personal growth, offering actionable insights for parents, educators, mentors, and anyone invested in supporting the next generation of men.   Timestamps: 06:14: Inspiration Behind 'Better Boys, Better Men' 18:10: The Boy Code and Its Impact on Mental Health 22:32: The Impact of Testosterone on Male Brain Development 28:33: Challenges for Single Mothers Raising Boys 34:03: Unlearning Damaging Behaviours in Men 41:17: The Importance of Emotional Resiliency in Boys

Why does rejection affect us so deeply, and what can we do about it?  In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I speak to Professor of Psychology Mark Leary about the science of rejection, social belonging, and men’s mental health. Drawing on decades of research, Mark explains why our sensitivity to rejection is evolutionarily hardwired and how it continues to influence our self-esteem, relationships, and emotional wellbeing. In this episode you will learn: Why humans, especially men, are deeply affected by rejection and social exclusion How rejection impacts self-esteem, mental health, and interpersonal relationships The role of societal expectations in discouraging men from expressing vulnerability or emotional pain Strategies for responding to rejection in healthier, more resilient ways Practical insights for building emotional resilience, confidence, and self-awareness This conversation is essential for anyone interested in men’s mental health, emotional intelligence, resilience, social psychology, and relationships, offering research-backed guidance for understanding and coping with the impact of rejection.   Hear more from Mark: Interpersonal Rejection Book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Interpersonal-Rejection-Mark-R-Leary/dp/0195130146 Blog: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/toward-less-egoic-world Timestamps: 04:46: The Impact of Rejection 11:42: The Evolutionary Roots of Acceptance 15:11: Friendship Dynamics and Acceptance 18:57: Types of Rejection and Their Impact 26:00: Rejection Sensitivity: Genetic and Experiential Factors 31:14: Perception of Rejection: Overestimating and Underestimating 33:06: Understanding Sensitivity to Rejection 35:19: The Balance of Acceptance and Rejection 37:44: Reframing Rejection: A Positive Perspective 41:55: Navigating Romantic Rejection 46:09: The Complexity of Self-Worth and Rejection 49:11: Hurt Feelings: The Core of Rejection 51:25: Moving Forward After Rejection  

We all love to laugh! But have you ever stopped to think how humour can be used more consciously to help build mental resilience, cope with stress, and improve your relationships?  In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I speak to comedian, author, and humour strategist Paul Osincup about how humour, laughter, and playfulness can improve men’s mental health, resilience, and relationships. Paul explains how humour can be used as deliberately as practices like yoga or meditation to support overall wellbeing. In this episode you will learn: The science and psychology behind humour, laughter, and mental health How to use humour intentionally to manage stress, difficult emotions, and life challenges Ways humour can improve communication, connection, and relationship satisfaction Practical strategies for creating daily humour habits to boost joy and resilience How laughter can break down stigma around men’s mental health This conversation is essential for anyone interested in men’s mental health, resilience, stress management, emotional wellbeing, and personal growth, offering actionable insights on using humour as a deliberate tool for a happier, healthier life.   Learn more about Paul The Humor Habit Book: https://www.thehumorhabit.com/   Paul's website: paulosincup.com    Timestamps: 00:00: The Power of Humour in Mental Health 06:37: Paul's Journey: From Educator to Humour Advocate 11:12: Understanding the Humour Habit 16:11: The Science Behind Laughter 21:00: Types of Humour and Their Impact 25:56: Reframing Failure and Rejection with Humour 29:11: Navigating Embarrassment and Finding Humour 33:46: The Power of Reframing and Humour in Difficult Times 36:22: Physical and Mental Health Benefits of Laughter 41:35: Humour in Relationships: Building Emotional Intimacy 46:21: Creating Humour Habits for a Happier Life 55:50: The Balance of Humour and Mental Health

Dopamine shapes our motivation, mood, and behaviour—so how can we understand it better?  In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I speak to Michael Long, author, speechwriter, and human behaviour expert, about dopamine, motivation, and men’s mental health. Michael explains how dopamine drives our actions, the risks of chasing constant stimulation, and strategies for taking control of our behaviour rather than being controlled by it. In this episode you will learn: What dopamine really is and how it affects motivation, mood, and decision-making How everyday behaviours like social media use and goal-chasing impact your brain chemistry and mental health When dopamine helps us thrive and when it can become harmful Practical strategies to manage dopamine for emotional wellbeing, focus, and self-control Why understanding dopamine is crucial for men’s mental health awareness and personal growth This conversation is essential for anyone interested in men’s mental health, neuroscience, motivation, behavioural science, and personal development, offering actionable insights into how to harness dopamine for a healthier, more balanced life. Be sure to check out Michael's new book: https://TamingTheMolecule.com to learn more!  

We'll be launching Season 2 on Tuesday 25th March. Stay tuned!

What does it take to survive trauma and rebuild life after a violent attack?  In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I speak to Rachel Duncan about her nephew, James Bascoe Smith, who survived a brutal knife attack in Brixton in 2021. Rachel shares their journey through trauma, recovery, and the legal system, highlighting the often-overlooked experiences of survivors and the impact on their families. In this episode you will learn: The physical, emotional, and financial challenges faced by survivors of violent attacks How trauma affects both victims and their families, including grief, resilience, and mental health The societal issues surrounding gang violence, youth safety, and community support The importance of community, family, and advocacy in helping young men recover and thrive Lessons on resilience, hope, and the long-term journey of rebuilding life after tragedy This conversation is essential for anyone interested in men’s mental health, trauma recovery, youth violence, resilience, and community support, offering insight, empathy, and actionable lessons for creating safer, more supportive environments for young men.

Is anxiety in men being fundamentally misunderstood? Men often experience anxiety differently, and this can make it harder to recognise and address. In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I speak to Dr Krista Fisher, research fellow at Movember, about men’s mental health, anxiety, and masculinity. Krista shares insights from her research showing that men frequently express anxiety through physical symptoms, behaviour changes, and stress responses rather than emotional cues, and how societal expectations about masculinity can prevent men from seeking help. In this episode you will learn: How anxiety manifests differently in men compared with women Why cultural and societal pressures can make men reluctant to seek help The physical, emotional, and behavioural signs of male anxiety Practical strategies for recognising anxiety early and taking proactive steps How to support men in developing resilience, emotional awareness, and mental wellbeing This conversation is essential for anyone interested in men’s mental health, anxiety, emotional resilience, masculinity, and wellbeing, offering research-backed insights and actionable guidance for understanding and managing anxiety in men.