In a world where the nuances of masculinity often go unspoken, Mark Pagan’s podcast “Other Men Need Help” seeks to unearth the subtle performances of manhood. Pagan delves into the intricacies of male behavior, exploring topics that are frequently overlooked in mainstream narratives.
The podcast, described by Pagan as an exploration of the “emblems, habits and struts of the male performance,” covers themes such as feeling dwarfed by taller men, navigating a relationship where a partner earns more, and questioning the etiquette of using exclamation points in emails to male friends.
Unlike typical portrayals of men as either emotionally stunted or excessively aggressive, Pagan’s inquiry into masculinity offers a fresh perspective. He recently revisited a clip from the podcast’s inaugural episode in 2017, emphasizing its continued relevance.
Exploring the Depths of Male Identity
Speaking with Sam Dingman, Pagan reflected on his upbringing, which was heavily influenced by the women in his life, particularly after his father’s passing. This upbringing left him questioning traditional notions of masculinity. “I spent my life, kind of like my head pressed against the glass, looking at how masculine works,” Pagan shared.
By his 30s, Pagan experienced a revelation about the misleading narratives surrounding masculinity, which prompted him to create content that candidly addressed these issues. “I know other men, other people, are going through this,” he stated, highlighting his motivation to share these experiences transparently.
An Evolving Discourse
The podcast’s release coincided with significant socio-political movements in 2017, though Pagan asserts that it was not directly in response to them. Regardless, it found an audience eager for honest discussions about masculinity. In reflecting on the years since, Pagan notes a concerning shift in the discourse towards antagonism, with terms like “toxic masculinity” being overused to the point of losing meaning.
Pagan argues that such language can alienate rather than engage men in conversations about self-improvement and introspection. “So what is the intention of using toxic masculinity?” he questions, suggesting that the approach needs to be more inviting to foster genuine dialogue.
Challenging Competitive Narratives
Pagan also critiques the competitive mindset often associated with masculinity, which emphasizes individual dominance over connection. He argues that this perspective fosters isolation and discourages meaningful interaction. “None of it is about connection,” he emphasizes, advocating for a shift towards community and support.
Mark Pagan’s “Other Men Need Help” continues to challenge and redefine the conversation around masculinity, offering a platform for men to explore their identities beyond traditional stereotypes. The podcast is available on major platforms and on Substack.
KJZZ’s The Show transcripts are created on deadline. This text is edited for length and clarity, and may not be in its final form. The authoritative record of KJZZ’s programming is the audio record.
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