The Meaning of Men

Simeon Atkins
  • 5.0 (2)
  • MENTAL HEALTH
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

What does it really mean to be a man in today’s world? With shifting expectations and growing pressures, many men are asking deep, personal questions about their identity, purpose, and value. The Meaning of Men is here to explore those questions with you and shine a light on mens mental health. From the complexities of masculinity, the role of fatherhood, maintaining meaningful friendships, and the impact of human evolution, we tackle the areas that shape the experience of being a man today. But this show isn’t just for men. If you’re a mother, wife, partner or friend and want to help a man in your life, this podcast is just as much for you. Through expert insights, heartfelt stories, and honest, raw conversations, The Meaning of Men provides a roadmap for navigating the highs and lows of manhood so you can show up as your best self in every area of life. Because we all can help expand what it means to be a man.

  1. 1D AGO

    S4, Ep7: The Meaning of Raising Boys | Helping sons thrive today

    What do boys and young men actually need from us right now? In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I sit down with Lorraine Candy — journalist, editor and bestselling author — to explore what boys really need in today’s digital, headline-driven culture. From emotional regulation and developmental vulnerability to social media, gaming and the “toxic masculinity” narrative, this conversation cuts through the panic and brings clarity to modern parenting. Lorraine explains why boys often lag behind girls emotionally, how media messaging distorts expectations, and why blanket bans on technology rarely solve the real problem. We explore practical tools for raising emotionally healthy boys: setting boundaries with clear consequences, building connection through rituals, repairing ruptures after conflict, and meeting boys where they are — not where we think they should be. If you’re parenting a son — whether he’s five or fifteen — and wondering if you’re getting it right, this episode offers grounded insight, reassurance and practical strategies to help boys grow into confident, compassionate and resilient men. In this episode you will learn: Why boys develop differently — and what that means for parenting How media narratives shape fear around masculinity Why connection beats control when setting boundaries How to talk to boys about technology and influencers The power of repair in strengthening your relationship Disclaimer: Lorraine's advice is not specifically for anyone parenting neurodivergent teens or children with SEN.  Hear more from Lorraine:  Substack parenting newsletter: https://open.substack.com/pub/lorrainecandy Lorraine's book: https://harpercollins.co.uk/products/mum-whats-wrong-with-you-101-things-only-mothers-of-teenage-girls-know-lorraine-candy   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/CqkuOJeI01m/?igsh=MXB5N3d1ZzV5ZnFieg==   Timestamps: 04:05: Understanding Boys: Vulnerability and Development 06:42: The Impact of Media on Parenting Expectations 09:54: Emotional Development and Communication with Boys 12:46: The Role of Technology in Boys' Lives 15:54: Recognizing Behavioral Changes in Adolescents 18:36: Building Connections Through Rituals 21:45: Critical Thinking in Parenting: Media Influence 24:35: The Importance of Open Conversations About Emotions 33:06: Navigating the Impact of Social Media on Boys 34:45: Setting Healthy Boundaries for Teenage Boys 39:02: The Importance of Communication and Connection 41:58: Understanding Emotional Regulation in Boys 45:35: Maintaining Connections During Adolescence 50:04: Redefining Masculinity and Role Models 53:49: Reassurance for Parents Raising Boy

    58 min

  2. FEB 12

    S4, Ep6: The Meaning of Black Men’s Health | Race, identity and early mortality

    Why are Black men in America living 13 years less than their healthiest counterparts? In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I sit down with Professor Derek M. Griffith, leading public health researcher and global expert on Black men’s health, to unpack the crisis hiding in plain sight. From life expectancy gaps and suicide rates to structural racism, economic inequality and the commercial determinants of health, this conversation explores why Black men’s health outcomes remain among the worst in the United States — and what can be done about it. Professor Griffith explains why he prefers the term manhood over masculinity, how identity and societal expectations shape behaviour, and why men’s health is too often framed as an individual failure rather than a policy priority. If you care about men’s mental health, health equity, masculinity, fatherhood, purpose, resilience, and social justice — this episode is essential listening. In this episode you will learn: Why the 13-year life expectancy gap for Black men exists How structural racism impacts physical and mental health The difference between masculinity and manhood — and why it matters Why men’s health is overlooked in public policy Practical policy shifts that could transform outcomes for Black men Hear more from Derek: https://prmh.nursing.upenn.edu/ Timestamps: 03:11: The Journey to Addressing Men's Health 05:45: The State of Black Men's Health 10:49: Historical Context of Manhood and Masculinity 16:01: The Role of Provider in Black Communities 20:59: Defining Manhood vs. Masculinity 25:56: The Visibility of Men's Health Issues 30:58: Policy Changes for Men's Health 36:04: Hope for the Future of Men's Health

    47 min

  3. FEB 4

    S4, Ep5: The Meaning of March or Die | Why men get stuck—and how to move forward

    What do you do when staying where you are feels safer—but moving forward is the only way to survive? In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I'm joined by Marine Corps veteran Jeremy Stalnecker to explore the life-defining philosophy of March or Die. Drawing from Jeremy’s combat experience in Iraq and his work supporting veterans, first responders, and men in crisis, this conversation goes deep into identity, trauma, resilience, and responsibility. We unpack what happens when men tie their sense of self to a role, a past version of themselves, or a traumatic experience—and how that can quietly destroy relationships, purpose, and hope. Jeremy shares why victimhood can feel comforting, why doing nothing is often the most dangerous choice, and how true resilience is built before crisis hits. This episode is essential listening for men navigating transition, burnout, loss, or the quiet feeling of just existing rather than truly living. In this episode you will learn: Why “marching” is a daily decision, not a one-time breakthrough How identity loss fuels anger, isolation, and hopelessness The hidden comfort of staying stuck—and how to break free Why responsibility is the gateway to freedom How men can move forward even when the future feels unclear Hear more from Jeremy: Jeremy’s social media: https://www.facebook.com/jeremystalneckerofficial https://www.instagram.com/jeremystalnecker/ https://x.com/jstalnecker https://www.youtube.com/@MightyOaksFoundation https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-stalnecker-63a2a17/   Jeremy’s website: https://www.jeremystalnecker.com/   Timestamps: 03:47: The Journey from Military to Ministry 06:35: Reconnecting with Identity and Purpose 09:43: The Work of Mighty Oaks Foundation 12:46: March or Die: A Military Philosophy 15:35: Choosing to Move Forward 18:34: The Power of Decision-Making 21:32: Victim Mentality vs. Survivor Mindset 24:22: Identity and Trauma 27:28: The Challenge of Defining Masculinity 30:19: Understanding Trauma and Identity 36:17: The Importance of Preparation for Adversity 42:08: Navigating Change and Decision-Making 45:35: Finding Hope and Purpose in Life

    49 min

  4. JAN 28

    S4, Ep4: The Meaning of Misogyny | How it fuels extremism and harms men and women

    What is misogyny really all about, and why do rigid ideas of masculinity harm boys and make them vulnerable to radical narratives? In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I'm joined by Cynthia Miller-Idriss, one of the world’s leading experts on extremism, gender, and online radicalisation, to explore the deeper meaning of misogyny and why it matters for men’s mental health, belonging, and purpose. Together, we unpack how misogyny often lays the cultural groundwork for extremist beliefs, hate-fuelled violence, and rigid models of masculinity that leave boys and men isolated, angry, and vulnerable. This conversation goes beyond blame, asking harder questions about loneliness, grievance-based online content, the influence of algorithms, and why so many men are searching for meaning in unhealthy places. In this episode you will learn: How misogyny becomes a gateway to extremism and mass violence The hidden damage rigid masculinity does to boys — and why it fuels radicalisation How influencers, algorithms, and grievance culture pull men down dark paths Why loneliness and lost purpose leave men vulnerable — and what actually protects them What “calling men in” really looks like, and how to build healthier paths to meaning Hear more from Cynthia: Book: Man Up - The New Misogyny and the Rise of Violent Extremism: https://press.princeton.edu/books/hardcover/9780691257549/man-up   Timestamps: 00:59: Cynthia's Journey and Academic Background 04:31: Understanding Misogyny and Its Broader Implications 08:46: The Link Between Misogyny and Extremism 12:04: Exploring Influencers and Their Impact on Men 16:39: The Man Box: Conditioning and Its Consequences 23:07: Finding Healthier Forms of Belonging 28:28: The Importance of Meaning and Purpose for Men 33:56: Hope for the Future: Engaging Conversations and Solutions

    49 min

  5. JAN 21

    S4, Ep3: The Meaning of Male Nannies | Breaking gender norms in childcare

    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

    44 min

  6. JAN 14

    S4, Ep2: The Meaning of Male Survivors | Understanding sexual abuse against men

    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

    47 min

  7. JAN 8

    S4, Ep1: The Meaning of Men's Advocacy (ft George TheTinMen)

    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

    55 min

  8. 12/18/2025

    The Meaning of Men Annual Wrap 2025!

    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

    41 min
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About

What does it really mean to be a man in today’s world? With shifting expectations and growing pressures, many men are asking deep, personal questions about their identity, purpose, and value. The Meaning of Men is here to explore those questions with you and shine a light on mens mental health. From the complexities of masculinity, the role of fatherhood, maintaining meaningful friendships, and the impact of human evolution, we tackle the areas that shape the experience of being a man today. But this show isn’t just for men. If you’re a mother, wife, partner or friend and want to help a man in your life, this podcast is just as much for you. Through expert insights, heartfelt stories, and honest, raw conversations, The Meaning of Men provides a roadmap for navigating the highs and lows of manhood so you can show up as your best self in every area of life. Because we all can help expand what it means to be a man.

Information

  • Creator
    Simeon Atkins
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    66
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Meaning of Men