The Meaning of Men

Why are men so often discouraged from caregiving roles? In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I sit down with Joss Cambridge Simmons (aka Jossy Care), a male nanny and caregiver who is redefining what it means to be a man in today’s world. Together, we explore the rarely discussed role of male nannies, the stigma men face in caregiving roles, and why love, presence, and emotional safety are not weaknesses, but essential human strengths. Joss shares his personal journey into childcare, how caregiving shaped his understanding of masculinity, and what children, families, and society gain when men show up with softness and intention. This conversation goes far beyond childcare — touching on fatherhood beyond biology, purpose-driven work, resilience in the face of judgement, and the importance of positive male role models in children’s lives. Whether you’re a father, a caregiver, or a man questioning traditional expectations and masculinity, this episode offers insight, challenge, and inspiration for living with deeper meaning. In this episode you will learn: Why caregiving is a powerful expression of masculinity How male nannies challenge outdated gender norms The impact emotionally present men have on children How love and softness build resilience in men Why purpose often lies beyond society’s expectations Hear more from Joss: www.instagram.com/jossycare   Here Is An App That Can Support Families' Busy Schedules: "TRYBE"  Subscribe Monthly Or Yearly   Watch  Me On CBBCS "Our School" Our School   Watch the Nanny Man Documentary  Nanny Man   Watch My Recent Interview Here, Manny Life   Watch Me At the National Diversity Awards 2019   Become An Inclusive Anti-Racist Educator / Parent & Adult Anti Racist Guide   Timestamps:   01:50: Becoming a Male Nanny: A Unique Path 05:09: Challenging Misconceptions of Men in Caregiving 10:07: Demand for Male Nannies and Societal Shifts 18:20: Redefining Masculinity 23:13: The Role of Love in Personal Growth 29:47: Navigating Parenting Challenges 35:22: Creating Safety Over Discipline 40:14: Encouraging Male Involvement in Childcare  

Why is it still so hard to believe that men can be victims of sexual abuse? In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I sit down with Duncan Craig OBE, founder of We Are Survivors, the leading UK charity supporting male survivors of sexual violence. Together, we explore the hidden reality of sexual abuse, exploitation, and violence experienced by boys and men—and why silence, stigma, and outdated assumptions keep so many suffering alone. Duncan shares his personal journey as a survivor, the work he’s done supporting thousands of men each year, and the cultural myths that frame men solely as perpetrators rather than victims. This conversation challenges ideas around masculinity, shame, power, and vulnerability, while examining how systems, language, and policy continue to fail male survivors. In this episode you will learn: Why men often take over 20 years to disclose sexual abuse How stigma and masculinity silence male survivors What sexual exploitation of men actually looks like today Why current laws and policies fail boys and men How permission and safe spaces can save lives Hear more from Duncan www.wearesurvivors.org.uk Timestamps 00:00: Understanding Male Survivorship 03:31: Duncan's Journey: From Survivor to Advocate 06:26: The National Landscape of Male Sexual Abuse 09:09: Breaking the Stigma: Male Victims Speak Out 12:12: The Complexity of Male Sexual Exploitation 14:57: Permission to Speak: The Emotional Landscape 17:44: Patterns of Disclosure: How Men Share Their Stories 20:28: The Role of Policy in Supporting Male Survivors 23:45: Creating Safe Spaces for Men 26:25: The Importance of Value and Self-Worth 29:23: Hope and Healing: Encouraging Men to Seek Help

What if the data shaping our understanding of gender equality is telling only half the story? In this episode of The Meaning of Men, we’re exploring some of the most uncomfortable—and most necessary—questions in the conversation about men and boys. I’m joined by George TheTinMen whose work in this space has become a lightning rod for honest, data-led conversations about men, boys and gender equality.  Together, we take a 30,000-foot view of the state of men’s health and wellbeing today, looking at everything from mortality and mental health to the scale of domestic violence against men and common media narratives that often distort gender data and reinforce myths over truth. In this episode you'll learn: Why men experience worse outcomes across health, mortality and wellbeing How the Global Gender Gap Report heavily skews the public debate around gender equality The overlooked reality of domestic violence against men What’s really driving young men toward figures like Andrew Tate Why listening to boys may be the key to long-term cultural change Hear more from George TheTinMen: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetinmen/ Timestamps: 07:50: The State of Men's Health and Wellbeing 10:31: Understanding Domestic Violence Against Men 22:34: The Manosphere and Its Impact 24:43: Understanding the Void for Boys and Men 28:06: Listening to Boys: A New Approach 30:33: The Misconceptions of Andrew Tate and Misogyny 37:04: Critique of the Global Gender Gap Report 48:39: Positive Changes for Boys and Men 53:46: Closing Thoughts and Call to Action

What an incredible year it has been! In this special year-end wrap-up episode of The Meaning of Men, I reflect back on the first amazing 12 months of the podcast, revisiting the conversations that shaped a deeper, more honest exploration of modern masculinity. Sixty episodes in, the defining question at the heart of the show feels more relevant than ever: what does it truly mean to be a man today? Featuring highlights from some of the worlds leading thinkers, researchers, authors and clinicians, this episode explores the shifting role of men in a world of changing gender dynamics, the complexities of men’s mental health, and why simply “telling men to talk” isn’t enough. From the science of dopamine and rejection, to fatherhood, male friendships, anger, fun, sleep, and purpose, each segment reveals practical insights into how men can live with greater resilience, connection, and meaning. Whether you’re new to The Meaning of Men or have listened since episode one, this episode is both a celebration and a call to keep asking better questions. I'll see you again in the first week of January 2026 for Season 4! Timestamps: 01:10: The Impact of Gender Roles on Men 04:32: The Challenge of Men's Mental Health Conversations 05:06: Creating Safe Spaces for Vulnerability 07:17: The Importance of Fathers in Child Development 07:31: Father Figures and Mental Health Outcomes 09:28: Understanding Dopamine: The Drive for More 11:54: The Cycle of Dissatisfaction and Happiness 13:57: Understanding Rejection: An Evolutionary Perspective 13:58: The Psychological Impact of Rejection 16:15: Reclaiming Fun in Our Lives 16:35: The Impact of a Fun-Starved Life 21:23: Understanding Anger: A Misunderstood Emotion 21:45: Harnessing Anger for Personal Growth 24:05: The Impact of Social Media on Masculinity 24:34: Mainstream Masculinity Influencers and Their Effects 29:23: Practical Strategies for Better Sleep 32:10: Navigating Stress and Presence 32:39: The Concept of the Third Space 35:38: The Search for Meaning in Men's Lives 35:56: Understanding Meaning Beyond Feelings 39:54: Celebrating a Year of Insights 40:24: Looking Ahead to Season Four

What if masculinity influencers aren’t the real problem, but a symptom of something much deeper? Across the world, boys and young men are being pulled into the Manosphere in huge numbers. But behind the clickbait headlines and media panic lies a more important question: why are so many boys going there in the first place? In the Season 3 finale The Meaning of Men I speak with psychotherapist Will Adolphy, who brings a rare, first-hand perspective on the Manosphere having been drawn into these spaces himself as a young man. Will unpacks the emotional, cultural and psychological forces that make boys vulnerable to online influencers, and why simply blaming the internet misses the real issue.   In this episode you will learn: What draws boys to the Manosphere, and why it’s often more about belonging, structure and identity than misogyny Will’s own personal journey through the Manosphere and what helped him break free from it Why banning influencers doesn’t work, and the deeper cultural issues that must be addressed Practical tools for having healthier conversations with boys without shaming, silencing or creating resistance This episode is essential listening for anyone interested in boys’ development, men’s mental health, online influence and masculinity. It offers clarity, nuance and practical guidance for navigating one of the most misunderstood forces shaping young men today. Hear more from Will: Instagram - @psychwill Website - www.willadolphy.com Documentary - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EmXsSNOpZ44&t=20s Timestamps: 03:03: The Role of Masculinity in Modern Society 07:14: Defining the Manosphere: Communities and Influences 11:04: The Impact of Online Spaces on Young Men 12:54: Personal Journeys: From Vulnerability to Empowerment 22:18: The Need for Empathy and Guidance in Masculinity 24:11: The Internalisation of Masculine Ideals 30:55: Turning Points: The Shift Towards Healing and Self-Discovery 36:21: Ingredients for Recovery: Building a New Path 43:57: Exploring Self-Discovery and Balance 48:14: The Importance of Vulnerability and Non-Judgmental Spaces 55:09: Engaging Boys and Men in Meaningful Conversations 58:51: Shifting Perspectives on Masculinity and Empathy 01:05:56: Creating Safe Spaces for Open Dialogue 01:11:03: The Future of Boys and Men: Hope and Empowerment

What happens when men in suicidal crisis finally get the right kind of help, fast? Across the UK, thousands of men are reaching breaking point, yet most don’t know where to turn. In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I speak with Andrew Noon, Head of Centre at James' Place, a pioneering charity delivering life-saving therapy to men in suicidal crisis. Andrew reveals why suicide remains the leading cause of death for men under 50, why so many men feel trapped by life events rather than mental illness, and how rapid-access support can stop a crisis becoming fatal. In this episode you will learn: Why suicide in men is at the highest rate since 1999, and why young men are increasingly at risk How life events like relationship breakdown, financial stress, bereavement and work pressure often trigger suicidal crisis How James’s Place offers free, immediate, professional therapy within days (sometimes hours) The early signs of suicidal crisis and how to spot them through behaviour, mood, withdrawal, or subtle “breadcrumbs” How friends, partners, colleagues and family can support a man in crisis without causing shutdown Why men do talk - when we create the right context for them to open up This episode is essential listening for anyone who cares about men’s mental health, suicide prevention, emotional wellbeing, and early intervention. It highlights how the right support, offered quickly, compassionately, and without judgement, can save lives.   Timestamps: 00:00: The Mission of James's Place 03:04: James's Legacy and the Impact of Suicide 05:57: Understanding the Crisis: Trends in Male Suicide 09:06: The Pathway to Support: How Men Access Help 11:56: The Unique Intervention: Lay Your Cards on the Table 17:09: Common Struggles: What Men Face in Crisis 23:18: Recognising Signs: How to Support Men in Crisis 29:05: Lessons Learned: Insights from Working with Men 38:05: A Message of Hope: Recovery is Possible

What if the doctor you finally opened up to about your mental health had no training to actually help you? In this episode of The Meaning of Men I'm joined by Dr. Bob Smith, physician, researcher, and author of Has Medicine Lost Its Mind?, to uncover a shocking truth about modern healthcare: most primary care doctors receive almost no formal training in mental health. For men, who are already less likely to seek support and more likely to be misunderstood, the consequences can be profound.   In this episode, you will learn: Why most GPs lack proper mental health training How men’s symptoms get misread due to gender bias in healthcare The reasons depression in men often shows up as anger, withdrawal, or substance use What to do if your doctor doesn’t fully understand your mental health concerns Practical strategies for getting the help you need, even in a system that isn’t built for men A must-listen for anyone passionate about improving men’s mental health, raising awareness, and changing a system that too often leaves men behind. Here more from Dr Robert: Website: https://www.robertcsmithmd.com/ X: https://x.com/RobertCSmithMD Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RobertCSmithMD Bob's Blog: https://www.robertcsmithmd.com/psychology-today-blog/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertcsmithmd/ Timestamps: 03:26: Personal Journey and Catalyst for Change 09:15: The Historical Context of Mental Health in Medicine 14:50: The Crisis of Mental Health Care 20:22: Cultural Attitudes Towards Mental Health 24:46: The Societal Impact of Misdiagnosis 27:00: Navigating Conversations with Health Professionals 31:47: Advocating for Systemic Change in Medical Training 39:10: Hope for the Future of Mental Health Care  

In this special episode of The Meaning of Men, host Simeon Atkins reacts to a landmark moment: England’s first-ever national Men’s Health Strategy. After years of conversation and awareness-raising, this strategy signals a major shift toward systemic, long-term action to improve the health and wellbeing of boys and men. We break down the key themes from the newly released report, which openly acknowledges the unique challenges men face, without caveats or defensiveness. The strategy centres on a simple question: How do we help men live healthier, longer and happier lives? To answer that, it outlines three core aims: making healthcare easier to access, supporting healthier choices, and creating environments that help men thrive. We explore the six pillars underpinning the plan and highlight the broader significance of this moment, the potential impact on future generations, and the big questions that still need answering.   Link to the full Men's Health Strategy Report: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/691c8a7b5a253e2c40d706ee/mens-health-a-strategic-vision-for-england.pdf

Are young men in Britain facing a silent crisis? Education dropout rates, workforce withdrawal, and worsening men's mental health suggest something deeper is going on. In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I'm joined by Mark Brooks OBE, Director of Policy & Communications at the Centre for Policy Research on Boys and Men and co-author of The Missing Men report; one of the most comprehensive studies on the state of men and boys in the UK. In this episode you will learn: Why so many boys are falling behind in education What’s driving men’s withdrawal from the workforce The urgent need for a dedicated men’s health strategy How post-pandemic shifts continue to shape men’s lives The “green shoots” of progress—community action, culture change, and reasons for hope   Hear more from Mark: Centre for Policy Research on Men and Boys: www.menandboys.org.uk LinkedIn: centre-policy-research-menboys Association of Male Health and Wellbeing:www.amhw.org.uk Mark Brooks: www.mark-brooks.co.uk LinkedIn: mark-brooks-obe   Timestamps: 06:11: International Men's Day: Significance and Impact 11:58: The Missing Men Report: Understanding NEETs 15:42: The Impact of Unemployment on Young Men 21:24: The Gender Gap in Education 25:51: Employment Challenges and Economic Factors 34:07: Understanding the Prison Population

What does it really mean for a man to feel enough? Many men struggle with identity, purpose and self acceptance, often tying their worth to performance, achievement and strength. In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I speak with Jim Galvin, former Royal Marine and international athlete, about his lifelong search for belonging and meaning. Jim brings a rare perspective on masculinity, resilience and personal growth shaped by both military life and elite sport. The brotherhood, structure, and identity formed through the Royal Marines How elite athletic training shaped Jim’s understanding of discipline and self-worth The impact of losing his best friend to suicide and the role of grief in men’s mental health Why physical challenge can be a tool for healing, recovery, and emotional clarity How to practise self-acceptance, self-forgiveness, and allow joy even in chaos Why many men connect their value to performance and how to build confidence from who you are, not just what you do This conversation is for anyone interested in men’s mental health, masculinity, resilience, and the deeper question of what it means to live a meaningful and grounded life.   Hear more from Jim: https://www.youtube.com/@jimgalvin2191   Timestamps: 02:24: Understanding Early Influences 05:16: The Journey into the Royal Marines 09:06: Finding Purpose in Military Life 11:48: Transitioning to International Sport 14:48: Redefining Identity Beyond Physicality 16:36: Evolving Perspectives on Masculinity 18:42: Reflections on War and Peace 22:14: The Struggles of Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life 23:13: Navigating the First Year After Leaving the Marines 25:54: Coping with Loss: The Impact of Suicide on Veterans 28:41: Honouring a Friend: The Weight of Grief and Memory 35:21: Finding Happiness Amidst Chaos 42:58: Building a Community: The Joy of Fitness Coaching