The Meaning of Men

S2, Ep2: The Meaning of Humour.

We all love to laugh! But have you ever stopped to think how humour can be used more consciously to help build resilience, cope with stress, and improve your relationships? 
In this episode of The Meaning of Men, comedian, author and humour strategist Paul Osincup explains how humour can be used as deliberately as things like yoga and meditation to improve our physical and mental health.
We explore the science and psychology behind humour and how you can start creating simple humour habits to bring more laughter and joy into your lives. Paul shares insights on using laughter intentionally to navigate tough emotions, communicate more openly, and break down the stigma around men’s mental health.
 
Learn more about Paul
The Humor Habit Book: https://www.thehumorhabit.com/
 
Paul's website: paulosincup.com 
 
Timestamps:
00:00: The Power of Humour in Mental Health
06:37: Paul's Journey: From Educator to Humour Advocate
11:12: Understanding the Humour Habit
16:11: The Science Behind Laughter
21:00: Types of Humour and Their Impact
25:56: Reframing Failure and Rejection with Humour
29:11: Navigating Embarrassment and Finding Humour
33:46: The Power of Reframing and Humour in Difficult Times
36:22: Physical and Mental Health Benefits of Laughter
41:35: Humour in Relationships: Building Emotional Intimacy
46:21: Creating Humour Habits for a Happier Life
55:50: The Balance of Humour and Mental Health

S2, Ep 1: The Meaning of Dopamine.

For the first episode of Season 2 of The Meaning of Men, we’re tackling a topic that’s shaping our lives in ways we don’t even realise—dopamine.
Dopamine plays a crucial role in how we think, feel, and behave. You’ve probably heard people talk about “dopamine hits” when scrolling through social media or chasing that next big achievement. But what is dopamine really? And how does it influence everything from our motivation to our mental health?
To help us break it all down, we're joined by Michael Long— author, speechwriter, and expert in human behaviour. We explore how dopamine drives us, when it helps, when it hurts, and most importantly, how we can take control of it rather than letting it control us. What's clear from this discussion is that better understanding dopamine is key to better mental health awareness.
Be sure to check out Michael's new book: https://TamingTheMolecule.com to learn more!
 

Season 1 Wrap - See You in 2 Weeks!

We'll be launching Season 2 on Tuesday 25th March. Stay tuned!

S1, Ep12: The Meaning of Resilience.

In the Season 1 Finale of The Meaning of Men, Rachel Duncan shares the harrowing story of her nephew, James Bascoe Smith, who survived a brutal knife attack in Brixton in 2021. Once a talented gymnast and aspiring music producer, James was left with life-altering injuries after being stabbed multiple times in a case of mistaken identity. Rachel details the emotional trauma, the court case that followed, and the ongoing struggle of living with a disability. She highlights the often-overlooked grief of survivors and their families, emphasising the long-term physical, emotional, and financial challenges they face. The conversation explores broader societal issues, including gang violence, parenting, and the role of communities in supporting young people. Ultimately, she hopes James’s story will inspire us all to work towards a safer, more supportive future for boys and young men.

S1, Ep11: The Meaning of Anxiety (ft Movember).

Is anxiety in men being fundamentally misunderstood? In this episode of The Meaning of Men, Krista Fisher research fellow at Movember, unpacks how anxiety shows up differently in men—and why that often leads to it being overlooked.
Dr Krista shares groundbreaking insights from her research, revealing that men often express anxiety through physical symptoms rather than emotional distress. We also discuss how deeply ingrained ideas about masculinity can stop men from recognising when they need help, and in turn increase their symptoms.
So how do you know when it’s time to take action? And what can you do about it? This episode is packed with valuable takeaways for anyone invested in men’s mental well-being.
 

Reflections: The Impact of Social Media Algorithms.

For this weeks reflections session, we look back at our conversation with psychotherapist Aaron Balick who discussed how social media algorithms can impact our view of the world, our sense of identity and ultimately our mental health. 

S1, Ep10: The Meaning of Martial Arts.

What happens when the thing that defines you is suddenly taken away?
In this episode of The Meaning of Men, ex professional MMA fighter Kojo Lewis shares the untold side of combat sports—the fear, the self-doubt, and the struggle to find purpose beyond the fight. From a chaotic upbringing to the highs of professional competition, Kojo used martial arts as a way to prove his worth. But when injuries forced him to retire, he was left questioning everything.
Now a coach and mentor, he’s passionate about mental health awareness and helping others develop resilience—without needing to fight to prove themselves.
This is an honest conversation about men’s mental health, discipline, and learning to be comfortable in your own skin.

Reflections: Recognising Postnatal Depression in Men.

For this weeks reflections session we look back at our conversation with Tom Bailey, who shared his experience of suffering postnatal depression after the birth of his son.

S1, Ep 9: The Meaning of Porn Addiction.

More men in the UK struggle with a porn addiction than a gambling addiction. But with such a heavy stigma attached, it remains a largely hidden and unspoken issue.
 
In this episode of The Meaning of Men, leading sexual and relationship psychotherapist Dr Paula Hall dives into the impact of porn addiction on men’s mental health. She breaks down how compulsive porn use can become a coping mechanism for stress, anxiety, and even depression in men, often leading to secrecy, shame, and withdrawal from their partners. 
We explore the signs of male depression linked to porn addiction, including emotional numbness, loss of interest in real intimacy, and a diminished sense of pleasure. Dr. Hall also shares practical steps for those struggling and how loved ones can support and navigate difficult conversations.
 
Links to Dr Paula's work:
Pivotal Recovery website - https://www.pivotalrecovery.org/
Laurel Centre website - https://thelaurelcentre.co.uk/
Dr Paula's book - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Understanding-Treating-Sex-Pornography-Addiction-dp-0815362285/dp/0815362285/ref=dp_ob_title_bk
 
 

Reflections: 'Believe in The Decency of Boys and Men'.

For this weeks reflections session we look back at our conversation with Dr Judy Chu, an expert in boys and men.