Richard Reeves: What Makes a Man?

Avenue M is hosted by Joey Taylor and Haroon Moghul. We’re two men on a journey of faith and meaning. In each episode we speak with remarkable guests to help us unpack the moments that shape us, the struggles that build us and the questions that intrigue us.

Are men in crisis? Joey and Haroon sat down with Richard Reeves, Avenue M’s first guest — and for very good reason: Reeves blew the whistle on what’s now a widely-acknowledged (or, at least, hotly-debated) crisis of masculinity, even as Reeves refused to confirm to stereotypes of who men are or can be. 

As men of faith who navigate a world that’s far more complex and meaningful than our caricatures allow, we appreciate Reeves’ thoughtfulness, his courage, and his sense of responsibility: Though he knew it could potentially cost him support, Reeves went ahead and explained that, yes, in fact, many men are falling behind. 

The exchange quickly became personal: Since Joey and Haroon are raising boys, and Richard’s raised a few of his own, Avenue M’s first podcast covers heavy ground—and shares insights no parent, and especially no father, should miss. 

Background

• Richard Reeves is founder and President of the American Institute for Boys and Men, with a new partner institution in the United Kingdom
• Of Boys and Men: Why the Modern Male Is Struggling, Why It Matters, and What to Do about It by Richard Reeves
• Haroon’s written for AIBM, urging Muslim men not to tie their fate to Andrew Tate—because religion doesn’t have to conform to the culture wars.

This episode's sponsor is Queen City Diwan. Queen City Diwan designs remarkable journeys and inspiring experiences that teach and transform. Because at Queen City Diwan, we believe travel isn’t just about where you go–but about who you go with. And who you are when you come home. 

Avenue M is produced by Bespoken Live with music from Zach Swelbar, who plays in Circle It and Mosant.