Awake at the Wheel | Ep 88

In this conversation, Malini Ondrovcik and Melanie Bennett discuss the significant changes occurring in the education system, particularly in Ontario. They explore the implications of critical race theory, the framing of family as harmful, and the rise of ideological content in education. Melanie shares her personal journey into education advocacy, highlighting the challenges of censorship and the consequences of dissent. The discussion also touches on the media's role in shaping public perception and the potential for segregation in educational practices. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the need for critical thinking and open dialogue in addressing these complex issues. In this conversation, Melanie discusses the implications of Critical Race Theory in education, the challenges faced by educators, and the role of journalism in shedding light on these issues. She emphasizes the importance of free speech and the consequences of censorship in both the UK and Canada. The discussion also highlights the need for parental engagement in education and the power of informed activism to drive change.

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 87

In this conversation, Helen Pluckrose discusses her journey as a liberal humanist, her involvement in the Grievance Studies Affair, and the implications of social justice movements. She reflects on the evolution of liberalism, the challenges posed by critical social justice theories, and the backlash against her work. Pluckrose shares her personal experiences with public scrutiny and character assassination, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and understanding in a polarized political climate. In this conversation, Helen Pluckrose discusses the challenges posed by authoritarianism and cancel culture, particularly in the context of critical social justice movements. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining principles against censorship and the need for organizations to navigate these ideologies effectively. Pluckrose also addresses the debate surrounding indigenous knowledge in psychology, advocating for evidence-based practices while respecting cultural perspectives. She provides strategies for individuals to challenge woke ideologies in their workplaces and encourages a respectful approach to differing beliefs. Ultimately, she highlights the importance of solidarity and the potential for change within organizations.

Read Cynical Theories: https://a.co/d/3lVtizL
Read Social (in)justice: https://a.co/d/0hhniQ3
Read The Counterweight Handbook: https://a.co/d/1SbWsu8

Takeaways
-Helen Pluckrose is a liberal humanist focused on individual liberty.
-The definition of liberalism has shifted significantly over time.
-Critical social justice movements have both positive and negative aspects.
-The Grievance Studies Affair aimed to expose flaws in academic publishing.
-Public backlash can have severe personal consequences for individuals.
-Support from close friends is crucial during public scrutiny.
-It's important to recognize when arguments are not made in good faith.
-Maintaining a strong sense of self is vital in the face of criticism.
-Engaging in dialogue across divides is essential for understanding.
-Pluckrose is currently writing on Substack about anti-woke backlash. Counter authoritarianism that punishes and cancels individuals.
-Prioritize humanitarian fields in addressing critical social justice issues.
-Decolonizing knowledge must respect evidence-based practices.
-Scientific approaches are universally applicable, regardless of identity.
-Being a polite nuisance can effectively challenge workplace ideologies.
-Avoid engaging in the critical social justice economy of arguments.
-There are always options to push back against toxic environments.
-Do not contribute to preference falsification in organizations.
-Strength lies in numbers; find like-minded individuals.
-Respectful disagreement can lead to constructive dialogue.

Sound Bites
"I think we've become increasingly illiberal."
"We need words for that."
"The shift towards the critical social justice movement..."
"This was making some strides."
"I think we did make some headway there."
"Don't let other people's projections define you."
"I'm mostly now writing on Substack."
"This is the good thing about the scientific approach."
"Make a nuisance of yourself in a ver

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 86

In Part 2 of our conversation with journalist Barbara Kay, we take a deep dive into one of her most provocative topics: the intersection of pit bull advocacy, public safety, and progressive ideology. Barbara unpacks the data around breed-specific attacks, the ideological resistance to breed-specific legislation, and what this debate reveals about a broader trend—where emotional narratives often override facts.

We explore how ideology can distort public policy, the psychology of denial in social movements, and draw unexpected parallels to other controversial issues like trans inclusion and risk tolerance. If you've ever wondered how data gets buried beneath dogma, this episode is a must-listen.

Takeaways
-There is a disconnect between the ideals of diversity and the reality of inclusion in political spaces.
-The pit bull debate highlights issues of breed stigmatization and public safety concerns.
-Epidemiological data shows that pit bulls are responsible for a disproportionate number of dog attacks.
-Activism can take many forms, and social media has opened up new avenues for dissenting voices.
-It's important to support organizations that hold media accountable for misinformation.
-The narrative surrounding pit bulls is often tied to broader societal issues, including race and class.
-Finding your own community and resources can empower individuals to speak out.
-The current political climate allows for more open discussions about controversial topics than in the past.


Sound Bites
"There's a very well-funded pit bull advocacy movement."
"Pit bulls are a dangerous dog."
"You can't explain to people that they might be lucky."
"It's all ideology."
"We are making some headway and it's not as bad as it was."


Chapters
00:14 Media Influence and Accountability
00:37 Navigating Diversity and Inclusion in Politics
04:06 The Pit Bull Debate: Wokeness and Public Safety
16:10 Epidemiology and the Reality of Pit Bull Attacks
27:58 Activism and Finding Your Voice

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 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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In this conversation, Malini Ondrovcik discusses the crisis of masculinity, focusing on the psychological distress men face in modern society. The discussion covers the barriers men encounter in psychotherapy, the impact of societal expectations on their roles, and the importance of identity and career fulfillment. The conversation emphasizes the need for recognition of men's issues and the unique challenges they face in a changing social landscape.

takeaways
-Men are facing significant challenges related to mental health.
-Psychological distress in men is often externalized through action.
-Traditional psychotherapy approaches may not resonate with men.
-Societal expectations are increasing for men in various roles.
-Men often feel unacknowledged and unappreciated in relationships.
-Meritocracy is being challenged by societal narratives.
-Identity plays a crucial role in men's mental health.
-Career fulfillment is essential for men's sense of self.
-Acceptance of societal changes is important for mental health.
-Recognizing men's issues is vital for societal progress.

Sound Bites
"Men are experiencing a lot of psychological distress."
"Empathy without action isn't helpful."
"Men heal from things very differently than women."
"Helping one group doesn't mean squashing another."
"These people have worked their asses off."
"Identity is incredibly important for mental health."
"You're not crazy. You're not making this up."

Chapters
00:00 The Crisis of Masculinity
03:18 Psychological Distress in Men
07:09 Barriers to Male Psychotherapy
13:31 Impact of Societal Expectations
20:09 Meritocracy and Identity
24:18 Relationships and Men's Roles
30:24 Identity and Career Fulfillment
33:31 Recognizing the Reality of Men's Issues

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 compelling conversation, Eric Ruth shares his remarkable journey from a childhood shaped by homelessness and trauma to becoming a passionate advocate for men’s mental health through his initiative, the Honesty Experiment. Drawing from personal experience, Eric explores how journaling, stoicism, and self-awareness became powerful tools in his path to healing and growth—and how they can help others do the same.

Together with Malini and Oren, Eric delves into the often-overlooked challenges men face in expressing vulnerability, confronting societal expectations, and seeking support. They emphasize the transformative power of honest conversations and structured approaches to personal development, inspired by thought leaders like the Beatles and Einstein.

The dialogue thoughtfully navigates themes of masculinity, self-discovery, and the essential role of journaling as a means of understanding oneself and navigating life’s difficulties. With practical advice and real-world insights, this episode encourages listeners to embrace vulnerability, cultivate self-awareness, and take actionable steps toward a more fulfilled, authentic life.

Read Eric's Book, Ruthless: https://a.co/d/cDseXje
Visit Eric Online: https://www.thehonestyexperiment.com


takeaways
-Eric's childhood was marked by homelessness and trauma.
-He struggled with narcissism and toxic relationships.
-Journaling helped him shed self-deception.
-Stoicism played a crucial role in his transformation.
-Men often resist discussing feelings due to societal norms.
-Trauma can lead to a breaking point that prompts change.
-Support systems can help prevent hitting rock bottom.
-The Honesty Experiment promotes structured journaling.
-Life's balance is akin to navigating a river.
-Personal growth requires continuous self-auditing. You have to viscerally feel your experiences to understand them.
-Rock bottom is subjective; it varies for everyone.
-Seek help the moment you feel sad; it's not normal to be unhappy.
-Communication is key in relationships, especially for men.
-Ego is the number one enemy to happiness and fulfillment.
-Journaling can be a powerful tool for self-reflection and growth.
-Exercise restraint in one area of life to find joy.
-Personal growth requires effort and self-honesty.
-Compersion is essential for building healthy relationships.
-The narrative we create about our lives shapes our reality.-

Sound Bites
"I grew up homeless on the streets."
"I was through and through a narcissist."
"Life is like a river, balance is key."
"I want to be the best version of me."
"You have to viscerally feel it."
"Your rock bottom is not my rock bottom."
"You have to do the work."
"Love begets love."
"The joy of exercising restraint."
"Just get up and write."


Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Men's Mental Health
00:56 Eric's Journey: From Homelessness to Healing
07:57 The Power of Journaling and Stoicism
13:31 Trauma and Motivation: Finding Purpose
18:09 Influences of Greatness: The Beatles and Einstein
22:41 The Honesty Experiment: A Structured Approach to Journaling
25:55 Rock Bottom: The Path to Recovery
26:20 The Journey to Self-Awareness

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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