Awake at the Wheel | Ep 85

In this episode of Awake at the Wheel, hosts Malini Ondrovcik and Dr Oren Amitay engage with Barbara Kay, a seasoned columnist and author, to explore the evolving landscape of ideology, culture, and activism. They discuss Barbara's personal journey, the shift in academic discourse, the evolution of journalism, and the challenges faced by individuals speaking out against prevailing narratives. The conversation also touches on parenting in a changing ideological environment and reflections on anti-Semitism, offering insights and advice for the next generation.

Takeaways
-Barbara Kay's early experiences shaped her critical thinking.
-The shift in academia has led to a lack of intellectual diversity.
-Students today face real threats for dissenting opinions.
-Journalism has become more ideologically driven than in the past.
-Fear of isolation influences people's willingness to speak out.
-Support networks are crucial for those facing criticism.
-Self-education is vital in combating misinformation.
-The importance of understanding the implications of social justice terms.
-Parenting today involves navigating complex ideological landscapes.
-Historical context is essential in understanding current anti-Semitism. The media plays a significant role in shaping public perception and accountability.

Sound Bites
"I was born a very long time ago."
"Students feel threatened if they don't follow a party line."
"The lunatics are running the asylum."
"I don't think it's cowardice so much as a desperate need."
"I think it's very important that you not feel isolated."
"Self-education is really important."
"We need people like honest reporting."
"This is part of the insane asylum."
"You can support the groups doing the hard work."
"They still publish a lot of misinformation."

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Ideological Shifts
01:36 Barbara Kay's Journey and Perspectives
05:51 The Shift in Academic Discourse
10:44 The Evolution of Journalism
15:07 The Challenges of Speaking Out
22:30 Parenting in a Changing Ideological Landscape
31:10 Reflections on Anti-Semitism and Historical Context
36:42 Advice for the Next Generation
44:54 Media Influence and Accountability

We want your questions! Future episodes will feature a new segment, Rounds Table, where Malini and Dr Amitay will answer your questions, discuss your comments, and explore your ideas. Send your questions to rounds@aatwpodcast.com, tweet us @awakepod, send us a message at facebook.com/awakepod, or leave a comment on this video!

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In this conversation, Malini Ondrovcik and Dr Oren Amitay discuss the various challenges boys face in society today, focusing on education, employment, mental health, and family dynamics. They highlight alarming statistics that reveal boys are struggling academically, economically, and emotionally, often leading to severe outcomes. The discussion emphasizes the need for tailored educational approaches, increased representation of males in mental health fields, and the importance of healthy male role models to support boys in navigating their challenges. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the significant impact of role models on adolescents, particularly focusing on the influence of online content and pornography exposure. They highlight the concerning statistics regarding boys' health and wellbeing, including rising obesity rates and body dysmorphia. The discussion emphasizes the importance of parental involvement and effective communication strategies to support boys in navigating these challenges and developing a healthy sense of self.

Takeaways
-Boys are less prepared for school than girls.
-A significant percentage of boys face educational challenges.
-Employment rates for young men are declining.
-Mental health issues among boys are on the rise.
-Family dynamics play a crucial role in boys' development.
-Boys are often marginalized in discussions about mental health.
-Healthy male role models are essential for boys' growth.
-The narrative around boys' issues is often ignored or dismissed.
-Boys' struggles are not a zero-sum game against girls' progress.
-There is a need for more male representation in psychology.
-The average age of boys first viewing pornography is 13, with many exposed earlier.
-Boys are now more likely to be obese than girls by age 11.
-Fatherlessness and lack of male role models are significant issues.
-The messaging around gender roles has been confusing for many years.
-Boys are feeling increased pressure regarding sexual performance and body image.
-Parents need to be more involved and communicate openly with their children.
-Boys are struggling with body dysmorphia and eating disorders, similar to girls.
-Social media and online influencers contribute to unhealthy body image perceptions.
-Effective communication with boys often happens side by side rather than face to face.
-There are actionable strategies parents can implement to support their sons.


Sound Bites
"Boys are being set up for failure."
"There's been a 40% increase in NEET boys."
"We need more males in the field of psychology."
"Healthy masculinity is important."
"For every girl who dies by suicide, 3.5 boys do."
"Boys are significantly less likely to seek help."
"This isn't a zero-sum game."
"We need to address boys' issues too."
"Boys are feeling more pressure than ever."
"Fatherlessness is a problem."
"Boys are now more likely to be obese than girls."
"Parents should be non-defensive in that regard."

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Boys' Challenges in Society
01:18 Education: The Struggles of Boys
06:32 Employment and Economic Disparities
10:51 Mental Health Crisis Among Boys
21:07 The Impact of Family Dynamics
27:48 The R

We want your questions! Future episodes will feature a new segment, Rounds Table, where Malini and Dr Amitay will answer your questions, discuss your comments, and explore your ideas. Send your questions to rounds@aatwpodcast.com, tweet us @awakepod, send us a message at facebook.com/awakepod, or leave a comment on this video!

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Awake at the Wheel | Ep 83

In this episode, Malini Ondrovcik and Dr. Oren Amitay take a critical look at how boys’ mental health is portrayed in a popular new TV series—and where it gets things right, wrong, or dangerously oversimplified. They unpack the real-life risk and protective factors shaping boys’ development today, from the unfiltered world of internet access to the quiet influence of peer pressure, self-esteem, and family dynamics. With a sharp eye on what's missing from the mainstream conversation, they offer practical insights for parents looking to support their sons with clarity, compassion, and evidence-based strategies.


Takeaways
-Boys' mental health issues often stem from their experiences as boys.
-The portrayal of adolescents in media can be misleading.
-Risk factors for negative behavior include low self-esteem and limited interests.
-Unrestricted internet access poses significant risks for children.
-Parents should engage in discussions about their children's media consumption.
-Self-esteem issues can lead to seeking validation in unhealthy ways.
-Peer influence plays a crucial role in adolescent behavior.
-Sexual conversations among youth are happening at younger ages.
-Socioeconomic status can affect children's opportunities and experiences.
-Love in parenting must be accompanied by structure and boundaries.

Sound Bites
"Boys are men at some point."
"Spoiler alert for the TV series."
"Low self-esteem can lead to negative behaviors."
"Limited peer circles can be a risk factor."
"Sexual conversations are happening too early."
"Socioeconomic status can impact child behavior."
"Love must come with structure in parenting."


Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Boys and Mental Health
02:12 Critique of the TV Series
05:39 Risk Factors in Adolescent Behavior
07:00 The Role of Internet Access
10:22 Self-Esteem and Interests
13:23 Peer Influence and Social Circles
16:54 Sexual Development and Education
20:07 Family Dynamics and Socioeconomic Status
25:32 Protective Factors in Parenting
29:21 Conclusion and Future Discussions

We want your questions! Future episodes will feature a new segment, Rounds Table, where Malini and Dr Amitay will answer your questions, discuss your comments, and explore your ideas. Send your questions to rounds@aatwpodcast.com, tweet us @awakepod, send us a message at facebook.com/awakepod, or leave a comment on this video!

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