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