On Point | Podcast

Join Michael Reichert, a leading advocate for boys' mental health, Kevin Simon, Boston's chief behavioral health officer, and Richard Reeves, founder of the American Institute for Boys and Men, as they explore the alarming rise in loneliness and emotional distress among teenage boys. They discuss the crucial need for supportive environments, the role of peer counseling in schools, and the impact of societal expectations on emotional expression. Their insights reveal how addressing these issues is vital for academic success and overall well-being.

In this discussion, guests Olante Douglas, a Georgia kindergarten teacher, Thomas D, a Stanford education professor, and Robert J. Hendricks III, founder of the He Is Me Institute, tackle the alarming decline of male teachers in schools. They explore the pivotal role male educators play as positive role models, particularly for boys. Delving into societal perceptions, the conversation reveals how the absence of male figures impacts boys' emotional and academic development, stressing the urgent need to address this critical issue in education.

In a compelling discussion, guest Joseph Derek Nelson, an educational studies professor and former teacher, alongside Pedro Noguera, dean and author on race and education, and William Hayes, CEO of Boys Latin School, tackle the alarming issue of boys falling behind, particularly Black boys. They explore systemic disparities in education, innovative teaching strategies that foster engagement, and the necessity of supportive relationships in the classroom. Their insights highlight how redefining narratives and nurturing environments can create powerful opportunities for growth and success.

In this engaging discussion, guests Jayante Owens, an Assistant Professor at Yale specializing in organizational behavior in education, and Andrew Cooper, a dynamic fifth-grade teacher from Salt Lake City, confront the challenge of engaging boys in learning. They address how societal perceptions shape boys' behavior in the classroom and the impact on their education. They advocate for hands-on, interactive teaching methods to help boys thrive, emphasizing the need for empathy and the importance of rethinking traditional educational approaches to better support young male students.

Richard Reeves, President of the American Institute for Boys and Men, discusses boys' struggles in education, emphasizing how societal views on masculinity hinder their success. Richard Hawley, founding president of the International Boys School Coalition, shares insights on the unique learning styles and emotional challenges boys face in school. They highlight the urgent need for systemic changes to better support boys, from fostering teacher-student relationships to creating engaging, relatable educational content. Together, they advocate for immediate action to address these critical issues.

Join music journalist Liz Pelly, author of 'Mood Machine,' as she dives into how Spotify has transformed music listening habits. She discusses the disparity in artist compensation, particularly for independent musicians, and the impact of algorithm-driven playlists on music appreciation. Pelly critiques the ethics of streaming services and highlights the need for a more engaged listening culture. She also introduces innovative alternatives for fair artist distribution, advocating for deeper connections to music beyond the streaming model.

Jennifer Schuessler, a New York Times reporter, discusses President Trump's executive order targeting the Smithsonian, raising questions about historical integrity. Mike Gonzalez from the Heritage Foundation shares insights on the implications for museum governance and educational integrity. Dinah Ramey Berry emphasizes the importance of inclusivity in historical narratives, while Richard Cohen warns against historical revisionism by powerful figures. The group debates how political agendas shape the understanding of America's complex history, particularly regarding race and marginalized stories.

Jack Beatty, an On Point news analyst known for his insightful connections between history, literature, and politics, dives into the intricacies of Trump's tariff policies. He discusses the historical roots of these economic strategies and their chaotic implications, driven by key advisors. The conversation also touches on potential dangers of an expansive presidency and public skepticism towards democratic institutions. Finally, Beatty raises questions about democratic resilience and the complexities surrounding Trump's possible bid for a third term.

The discussion dives into the systemic challenges boys face in education. It highlights emotional struggles and societal pressures that hinder their learning. The series aims to shed light on the urgent need for a supportive environment tailored to their development. Experts weigh in on potential solutions to help boys catch up and thrive academically.

Thomas Chatterton Williams, a staff writer at The Atlantic and a senior fellow at Bard College, joins Yale philosophy professor Jason Stanley for a lively discussion. They explore the emergence of a 'woke right,' dissecting language policing with examples like 'chest feeding' vs. 'breastfeeding.' Their conversation touches on how political narratives shape societal dynamics, the influence of social media on language, and parallels between contemporary politics and historical authoritarianism. The duo emphasizes the urgent need for vigilance in the ongoing struggle for ideological expression.