Within just 17 minutes of creating a new account, research has shown that social media algorithms can begin promoting misogynistic content to teenage boys. In a new three-part KICPOD series, Am I Equal? Laura Henshaw explores the implications of this on modern relationships and society as a whole, the resurgence of traditional gender roles and rise of the ‘manosphere’.

Laura speaks with experts including Dr Zac Seidler, Global Director of Men’s Health at Movember and Associate Professor with Orygen at the University of Melbourne. Zac explains the echo chamber that is the manosphere, and the impact seeing masculine and misogynistic content has on young men’s perception of themselves and how they view women.

Am I Equal? also looks at the unintended consequences traditional gender roles are having on women’s careers and their financial future. Laura interviews Financial Advisor Jessica Brady, Professor of Sociology and Founding Director of The Future of Work Lab and the Gender Equity Initiative at the University of Melbourne, Leah Ruppanner and Gender Equality Activist, Gina Martin.

Laura said:

“I’ve been really disturbed by some of the content I’ve seen on social media in recent times, men expecting women to clean the house, stay at home, that men need to take back their power. I wanted to explore where this content is coming from and the consequences for women. My hope is that men and women both share this podcast and that it goes some way to addressing some of the sexism online.” 

KICPOD Executive Producer, Lindsey Green said:

“These conversations are essential listening regardless of gender, life stage or relationship status. I’m proud to work alongside Laura to help bring these important conversations to life.”

KICPOD was launched in March 2019 by authors and entrepreneurs Laura Henshaw and Steph Claire Smith and features deep, meaningful and relatable conversations on wellness, mental health and life’s challenges.

The first episode of KICPOD – Am I Equal? is out now on the free LiSTNR app.