If your son has a TikTok or Instagram account, he’s likely aware of the manosphere. Even if he’s off social media, his friends probably aren’t. The world of hyper masculine, misogynistic, anti-feminist content is becoming increasingly popular with young men, but why? In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about the dangerous content of the manosphere and how it’s resonating with boys and young men.
Why This Matters
There’s nothing beneficial about the manosphere, so we should learn how to help our family avoid its poison.
What Do Most Boys Want?
Kids, especially boys, are asking themselves these questions:
1. “Who am I?”
Boys are looking for identity.
2. “Where do I belong?”
Boys want to fit in.
3. “How do I influence the world?”
Boys are looking to leave their mark.
Important Episode Timestamps
00:00 – 02:03 | What Is the Manosphere?
The hosts define key terms and unpack how online communities shape men’s beliefs about masculinity.
02:03 – 04:11 | The Good, the Bad, and the Confusing
The dads tackle the mixed messages the manosphere sends.
04:11 – 06:32 | When Men Feel Unseen
Many men turn to the manosphere when they feel misunderstood by culture.
06:32 – 09:15 | Influencers and Echo Chambers
Certain voices online gain power by amplifying anger and oversimplifying manhood.
09:15 – 12:05 | Real Strength vs. Online Posturing
Authentic masculinity is marked by service and humility.
12:05 – 15:12 | Why Young Men Are Vulnerable
Loneliness, fatherlessness, and social media pull teens into toxic content.
15:12 – 18:37 | Calling Dads to Engage
Fathers must teach boys what real manhood looks like.
18:37 – 22:43 | Modeling Healthy Masculinity
The dads share stories and practical ways to show strength through gentleness and integrity.
22:43 – End | Pro Move: “Ask your son who he is following on social media. Ask him if he’s heard of the manosphere, incels, and “red pills” and find out what he thinks about it.”
All Pro Dad Resources
5 Ways We Want Our Sons to Rethink Manhood
5 Destructive Messages We Send Our Sons
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