Leading in a Mosaic World

The "Leading in a Mosaic World" podcast, hosted by Susan Popoola, explores the realities of modern life through conversations with diverse voices and experiences. This episode forms part of a special series exploring the question: “What does it mean to be a man in today’s world?” through thoughtful conversations with men from different backgrounds, professions, and cultures. The series contributes to the wider mission of creating Gender Harmony in a Mosaic World, a world in which men are able to fully be themselves, live fulfilled lives, and add value to others.Today’s guest is Ruben Singh Rai, co-founder and Head of Business Operations at CurvUp, a personal AI business companion for entrepreneurs. With a background in chemical engineering and banking and finance, Ruben brings experience in building and running early-stage businesses. He is also a competitive boxer and qualified England Boxing coach, and draws on the discipline, resilience, and accountability he has developed through the sport in both his professional and personal life.In this episode, Ruben reflects on growing up as one of the few brown children in a predominantly white environment and how racism, isolation, and the desire for acceptance shaped his confidence and behaviour. He shares how football initially provided a sense of belonging before boxing became a turning point, helping him develop discipline, accountability, confidence, and a stronger sense of self.The conversation also explores the pressures facing young men today, including social media, external validation, loneliness, and the pursuit of visible success. Ruben discusses masculinity, physical wellbeing, discipline, testosterone, and the ways lifestyle and environment can influence how men feel and function. He also shares his perspective on the appeal of the manosphere and the importance of looking beyond quick answers and external outcomes to build meaningful foundations for a fulfilling life.You can connect with Ruben Singh Rai on Linkedin and learn more about CurvUp through their website.If you’d like to explore the conversation around declining testosterone levels in men a little further, here are three resources for you to take a look at:The Guardian: Men’s average testosterone levels have halved in last 50 years, say scientistsEden Clinic: Testosterone DeclineMedichecks: Why do Gen Z and millennial men have lower testosterone?You can also connect with the host, Susan Popoola, the CEO of Mosaic Fusions, a specialist in human value optimisation, via LinkedIn. Learn more about her work on her Mosaic Fusions website and publications on Mosaic Gold Ltd.This series of the podcast is produced by Rafiat Akinwande.Keywords: MosaicWorld, MenInTodaysWorld, GenderHarmony, Men, MaleActualisation, Success, Fulfilment, Boys, Adolescent, Manosphere, Masculinity, PositiveMasculinity, MensWellBeing, YoungMen, HumanValue, SusanPopoola, RubenSinghRai, CurvUp, Boxing, Discipline, Resilience, Entrepreneurship, MensMentalHealth, Community, Brotherhood, Purpose, SelfDevelopment, EmotionalRegulation, WellbeingChapters01:12 Introduction to Ruben Singh Ray02:24 The Journey of Growing Up Different09:05 The Impact of Insecurities and Identity18:17 Discovering Boxing: A Life-Changing Moment25:48 Boxing as a Metaphor for Life and Business26:28 Navigating the Entrepreneurial Journey with CurveUp31:16 The Reality of Young Men Today36:56 Finding Fulfillment Beyond Social Media41:32 The Impact of Testosterone on Men's Health48:13 Balancing Modern Life and Health52:24 Coping with Loss and Building Resilience53:41 The Value of Life and Community Support54:33 Understanding 3D, 4D, and 5D Consciousness56:55 Navigating Life's Turbulence01:00:11 The Impact of External Factors on Emotions01:01:50 Curated Content for Personal Growth01:03:34 Feminization of Men: A Controversial Perspective01:08:37 Finding Solutions and Support Systems01:09:50 Actionable Steps for Personal Improvement

The "Leading in a Mosaic World" podcast, hosted by Susan Popoola, explores the realities of modern life through conversations with diverse voices and experiences. This episode forms part of a special series exploring the question: “What does it mean to be a man in today’s world?” through thoughtful conversations with men from different backgrounds, professions, and cultures. The series contributes to the wider mission of creating Gender Harmony in a Mosaic World, a world in which men are able to fully be themselves, live fulfilled lives, and add value to others.Today’s guest is Andrew Pain, a mental health and resilience keynote speaker, author, coach, and podcaster with 25 years’ experience in HR. He is also the host of Men on Show, a podcast exploring men’s mental health and modern masculinity. Andrew’s work is shaped by both his professional experience and lived experience as a survivor of domestic abuse. He is the author of Honestly Man: Why Masculinity Feels Confusing, Shame Doesn’t Help and What to Do About It, and is also a TED speaker and award-winning campaigner for Tim and Billy’s.In this episode, Andrew reflects on growing up in Birmingham in the 1980s and 1990s, his family background, and the ways childhood has changed over time. He and Susan explore whether boys may need different forms of upbringing and development, as well as the decline of youth services, community spaces, working men’s clubs, and other places where boys and men could build relationships. They discuss the impact of screens, gaming, the cost of living, and COVID lockdowns on young people’s social lives and their connection to the world beyond the home.The conversation also explores testosterone and men’s wellbeing, including the possible implications of declining testosterone levels, physical and mental health, and the importance of healthy male communities. Andrew discusses the empathy gap, male victimisation, and his own experience of domestic abuse, including the role of shame, people pleasing, and the “knight in shining armour” mindset in keeping him in an unhealthy relationship. He and Susan consider the importance of boundaries, self-protection, and knowing when to walk away, before reflecting on the positive changes in how masculinity and men’s wellbeing are understood today.If you’d like to explore the conversation around declining testosterone levels further, you can read The Guardian, Eden Clinic, and Medichecks for further perspectives on the research and issues discussed in this episode.You can connect with Andrew Pain on Linkedin and learn more about his work, including Honestly Man and Men on Show.You can also connect with the host, Susan Popoola, the CEO of Mosaic Fusions, a specialist in human value optimisation, via LinkedIn. Learn more about her work on her Mosaic Fusions website. And publications on Mosaic Gold Ltd. This series of the podcast is produced by Rafiat Akinwande.Keywords: MosaicWorld, MenInTodaysWorld, GenderHarmony, Men, MaleActualisation, Success, Fulfilment, Boys, Adolescent, Manosphere, Masculinity, PositiveMasculinity, MensWellBeing, YoungMen, HumanValue, SusanPopoola, AndrewPayne, MensMentalHealth, MentalHealth, Resilience, HonestlyMan, MenOnShow, MaleVictims, DomesticAbuse, MaleWellbeing, Testosterone, MensCommunities, Boundaries, PeoplePleasing, Masculinity, MaleConnection, OfflineCommunity Chapters01:12 Introduction to Andrew Pain and His Work04:03 Childhood Experiences and Family Dynamics06:36 Gender Differences in Upbringing and Education09:20 The Impact of Austerity on Youth Activities12:20 The Role of COVID-19 in Shaping Behavior15:02 Testosterone and Its Effects on Men's Health20:38 Community and Connection: The Need for Men's Spaces26:15 The Broader Implications of Men's Mental Health30:34 The Impact of Changing Job Landscapes on Men31:35 Understanding the Empathy Gap34:56 Rethinking Gender Roles and Expectations36:28 Men's Experiences with Abuse and Assault41:03 Navigating Domestic Abuse Awareness45:41 The Importance of Boundaries in Relationships52:26 The Evolving Landscape of Masculinity55:31 Practical Steps for Supporting Men and Boys

The "Leading in a Mosaic World" podcast, hosted by Susan Popoola, explores the realities of modern life through conversations with diverse voices and experiences. This episode forms part of a special series exploring the question: “What does it mean to be a man in today’s world?” through conversations with men from different backgrounds, professions, and cultures. The series contributes to the wider mission of creating Gender Harmony in a Mosaic World, a world where men are able to fully be themselves, live fulfilled lives, and add value to others.Today’s guest is Dr Rebecca Owens, known as Becky, an evolutionary psychologist and Head of the School of Psychology at the University of Sunderland, with a particular focus on male psychology. Her research explores the biological and evolutionary influences on men’s experiences, behaviours, and wellbeing, including relationships, mating preferences, body image, and masculinity. Becky also teaches male psychology and is a men and boys champion for the Centre for Policy Research on Men and Boys. She has contributed to public discussions about masculinity and the influence of the manosphere on young men, including commentary accompanying the Netflix documentary Louis Theroux’s Inside the Manosphere.In this episode, Becky reflects on growing up in Sunderland and Peterlee, exploring how the North East’s industrial heritage and mining communities shaped values such as hard work, trust, loyalty, and camaraderie. She and Susan discuss how the decline of traditional community spaces has affected men’s sense of belonging and why some young men are drawn to online communities, including the manosphere, in search of connection and understanding.The conversation also explores how simplified messages about masculinity can overlook the complexity of men’s experiences. Becky discusses the importance of distinguishing between positive online communities and harmful spaces, recognising warning signs when young men may be absorbing misogynistic ideas, and challenging harmful behaviour without shaming or alienating them. She also shares why she questions the term “toxic masculinity” and highlights the need for more nuanced conversations about men’s mental health, depression, suicide, postnatal depression, and andropause.You can connect with Dr Rebecca Owens via Linkedin and her work through the University of Sunderland and explore the work of the Centre for Policy Research on Men and Boys.You can also connect with the host, Susan Popoola, the CEO of Mosaic Fusions, a specialist in human value optimisation, via LinkedIn. Learn more about her work on her Mosaic Fusions website and publications on Mosaic Gold Ltd.This series of the podcast is produced by Rafiat Akinwande.Keywords: MosaicWorld, MenInTodaysWorld, GenderHarmony, Men, MaleActualisation, Success, Fulfilment, Boys, Adolescent, Manosphere, Masculinity, PositiveMasculinity, MensWellBeing, YoungMen, HumanValue, SusanPopoola, RebeccaOwens, BeckyOwens, MalePsychology, EvolutionaryPsychology, MensMentalHealth, BoysWellbeing, MaleIdentity, ToxicMasculinity, OnlineCommunities, Belonging, MaleSuicide, Andropause, PostnatalDepression, EmotionalWellbeing, Community, MaleFriendship, SocialConnection, CentreForPolicyResearchOnMenAndBoysChapters 01:12 Introduction to Male Psychology and Community Dynamics03:46 The Impact of Industrial Heritage on Masculinity06:34 Community and Belonging in Historical Contexts09:08 Exploring the Manusphere: Positive and Negative Aspects11:49 Understanding the Tipping Points in Online Communities14:24 Navigating Misogyny and Masculinity in Society16:54 The Role of Communication in Addressing Toxic Masculinity19:16 The Complexity of Incel Culture and Belonging21:45 The Need for Nuance in Discussions of Masculinity24:11 The Fulfilled Man: Beyond Success and Achievement37:32 Understanding Male Psychology40:10 The Importance of Gender Perspectives44:25 Mental Health Nuances Between Genders47:06 The Role of Women in Men's Conversations49:14 Empowering Messages for Men50:57 Challenging Societal Norms54:32 Closing Thoughts and Future Conversations

The "Leading in a Mosaic World" podcast, hosted by Susan Popoola, explores the realities of modern life through conversations with diverse voices and experiences. This episode forms part of a special series exploring the question: “What does it mean to be a man in today’s world?” through conversations with men from different backgrounds, professions, and cultures. The series contributes to the wider mission of creating Gender Harmony in a Mosaic World, a world where men are able to fully be themselves, live fulfilled lives, and add value to others.Today’s guest is Paddy Burt, founder of The Rural Reset, a wellbeing initiative that helps high-performing men build resilience through nature, practical skills, and meaningful connection. After years working with senior executives and high-performance teams in the financial sector, Paddy experienced firsthand the pressures and expectations that can shape men's lives. A life-changing move from the City to a farm, where he spent almost three years, gave him a new perspective on wellbeing, purpose, and what it means to live more authentically.In this episode, Paddy reflects on his childhood, boarding school experiences, and the expectations that shaped his understanding of masculinity, confidence, and belonging. He discusses bullying, anxiety, the pressure to maintain a confident exterior, and how the "mask" many men develop can hide a more vulnerable and empathetic self.The conversation also explores the pressures facing young men today, including social media, technology, career uncertainty, and the challenge of maintaining genuine human connection. Paddy shares his experiences of high-pressure City life, workplace culture, alcohol, and sobriety, as well as how stepping away from that environment helped him reconnect with himself and find a greater sense of purpose.Paddy explains how these experiences inspired The Rural Reset, creating safe spaces where men can slow down, reconnect with nature, have honest conversations, and recognise that they are not alone in the challenges they face.You can connect with Paddy Burt via Linkedin and learn more about The Rural Reset through its website and social media channels.You can also connect with the host, Susan Popoola, the CEO of Mosaic Fusions, a specialist in human value optimisation, via LinkedIn. Learn more about her work on her Mosaic Fusions website. And publications on Mosaic Gold Ltd. This series of the podcast is produced by Rafiat Akinwande.Chapters01:12 Introduction to Paddy Burt and Rural Reset03:04 Paddy's Early Life and Family Dynamics06:17 Boarding School Experiences and Masculinity11:17 The Impact of Bullying and Resilience17:44 Understanding Identity and Masculinity22:27 Challenges Faced by Young Men Today26:14 The Role of AI and Job Market Concerns29:22 Paddy's Journey to Self-Discovery and Transformation32:05 Paddy's Journey in Recruitment and the City Culture35:03 The Impact of Mental Health and Breakdown42:05 Reflections on Drinking Culture and Personal Change47:10 Transition from City Life to Farm Life49:52 The Concept of Rural Reset and Men's Retreats56:13 Finding Purpose and Overcoming ChallengesMosaicWorld, MenInTodaysWorld, GenderHarmony, Men, MaleActualisation, Success, Fulfilment, Boys, Adolescent, Manosphere, Masculinity, PositiveMasculinity, MensWellBeing, YoungMen, HumanValue, SusanPopoola, PaddyBurt, TheRuralReset, Resilience, MensMentalHealth, Nature, Purpose, Connection, Wellbeing, Leadership, Sobriety, Authenticity, HumanConnection

The "Leading in a Mosaic World" podcast, hosted by Susan Popoola, explores the realities of modern life through conversations with diverse voices and experiences. This episode forms part of a special series exploring the question: “What does it mean to be a man in today’s world?” through conversations with men from different backgrounds, professions, and cultures. The series contributes to the wider mission of creating Gender Harmony in a Mosaic World, a world where men are able to fully be themselves, live fulfilled lives, and add value to others.Today’s guest is Dr. Kurt Love, an educator, researcher, and human flourishing specialist whose work focuses on creating environments where individuals, communities, and organisations can move beyond survival and into sustainable thriving. He is the creator of the Community Actualization Spectrum and has pioneered approaches to education and leadership that promote agency, collaboration, and human-centred development.In this episode, Dr. Love explores how traditional gender norms, societal expectations, and stress shape the lives of men and boys. Drawing on his personal experiences and professional expertise, he examines the relationship between masculinity, emotional expression, burnout, and wellbeing, while highlighting the importance of creating environments where people are free to grow, contribute, and thrive.The conversation also explores the influence of family, education, culture, and media on gender identity, the changing experiences of younger generations, and the importance of empathy, authenticity, and shared human values in fostering healthier relationships. Dr. Love shares practical insights on challenging stereotypes, supporting emotional development, and creating communities where both men and women can flourish together.The episode concludes with reflections on gender harmony, human potential, and the importance of building societies that value authenticity, connection, and collective wellbeing.You can connect with Dr. Kurt Love via LinkedIn and learn more about his work through the AINA Thrive website.You can also connect with the host, Susan Popoola, the CEO of Mosaic Fusions, a specialist in human value optimisation, via LinkedIn. Learn more about her work on her Mosaic Fusions website. And publications on Mosaic Gold Ltd. This series of the podcast is produced by Rafiat Akinwande.Keywords: MosaicWorld, MenInTodaysWorld, GenderHarmony, Men, MaleActualisation, Success, Fulfilment, Boys, Adolescent, Manosphere, Masculinity, PositiveMasculinity, MensWellBeing, YoungMen, HumanValue, SusanPopoola, DrKurtLove, CommunityActualizationSpectrum, HumanFlourishing, Thriving, EmotionalWellbeing, Leadership, Education, AINAThriveChapters00:00 Introduction to Dr. Kurt Love and His Work06:16 Childhood Experiences and Gender Expectations12:13 The Connection Between Personal Experience and Professional Work19:08 Changing Dynamics of Compliance in Modern Society24:02 Cultural Pressures on Young Men Today28:50 Parenting and Community Influence on Masculinity33:35 Socioeconomic Factors Affecting Boys and Men35:43 Navigating Pressures of Masculinity41:08 The Role of Compliance and Change in Masculinity46:59 Vision for Modern Manhood55:03 Understanding Men's Challenges57:27 Gender Harmony and Mutual Understanding01:02:27 Outro

The "Leading in a Mosaic World" podcast, hosted by Susan Popoola, explores the realities of modern life through conversations with diverse voices and experiences. This episode forms part of a special series exploring the question: “What does it mean to be a man in today’s world?” through conversations with men from different backgrounds, professions, and cultures. The series contributes to the wider mission of creating Gender Harmony in a Mosaic World, a world where men are able to fully be themselves, live fulfilled lives, and add value to others.Today’s guest is Gamal Turawa, a cultural change specialist, international speaker, and founder of Purple Frog Connections. A former Metropolitan Police Officer and the Met’s first openly gay Black police officer, Gamal’s extraordinary journey has taken him from adversity and homelessness to becoming the protagonist of the BAFTA-winning documentary The Black Cop. Through his work, he helps organisations build inclusive cultures where people feel seen, heard, and valued by encouraging courageous conversations that move beyond assumptions, labels, and division.In this episode, Gamal reflects on his remarkable life journey, exploring how childhood experiences, race, culture, identity, and belonging have shaped his understanding of what it means to be a man. Drawing on deeply personal experiences, he discusses the impact of trauma, the importance of self-definition, and the challenges many boys and men face when trying to reconcile who they are with who society expects them to be.The conversation also explores how family, culture, religion, and social media influence identity and belonging. Gamal shares insights on resilience, hope, and unconditional love, reminding us that empathy, honest conversations, and genuine human connection can help break down barriers and bring people together. You can connect with Gamal Turawa via LinkedIn and learn more about his work through Purple Frog Connections. You can also watch the BAFTA-winning documentary The Black Cop, which tells the story of his remarkable journey.You can also connect with the host, Susan Popoola, the CEO of Mosaic Fusions, a specialist in human value optimisation, via LinkedIn. Learn more about her work on her Mosaic Fusions website. And publications on Mosaic Gold Ltd. This series of the podcast is produced by Rafiat Akinwande.Keywords: MosaicWorld, MenInTodaysWorld, GenderHarmony, Men, MaleActualisation, Success, Fulfilment, Boys, Adolescent, Manosphere, Masculinity, PositiveMasculinity, MensWellBeing, YoungMen, HumanValue, SusanPopoola, GamalTurawa, PurpleFrogConnections, TheBlackCop, Identity, Belonging, CulturalChange, Inclusion, Race, HumanConnectionChapters01:12 Introduction to Gamal Tuara's Journey03:17 Navigating Identity and Cultural Shifts10:06 Childhood Experiences and Cultural Confusion15:12 The Challenges of Black Boys in Today's Society18:55 Finding Self-Identity and Acceptance24:14 Embracing Blackness and Sexual Identity27:05 Finding Hope and Connection28:53 Understanding the Struggles of Young LGBTQ+ Individuals29:37 Navigating Parental Love and Acceptance32:21 The Impact of Love and Support on Youth33:54 The Role of Boundaries in Parenting35:36 Addressing Youth Violence and Gang Involvement37:42 The Influence of Technology on Youth39:11 Empowering Parents to Engage with Their Children42:58 The Importance of Community and Connection44:08 Creating Change Through Conversations47:58 The Power of Hope and Transformation

The "Leading in a Mosaic World" podcast, hosted by Susan Popoola, explores the realities of modern life through conversations with diverse voices and experiences. This episode forms part of a special series exploring the question: “What does it mean to be a man in today’s world?” through conversations with men from different backgrounds, professions, and cultures. The series contributes to the wider mission of creating Gender Harmony in a Mosaic World, a world where men are able to fully be themselves, live fulfilled lives, and add value to others.Today’s guest is Steve Whittle, founder of Tough to Talk, a charity dedicated to breaking down the barriers that prevent men from speaking openly about their mental health. Following his own experiences with ADHD, rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD), complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD), depression, and a period of severe crisis, Steve has become a passionate advocate for changing how society understands and supports men's mental wellbeing.In this episode, Steve shares his personal journey and challenges conventional approaches to men's mental health. He explores the idea of suicide as a response to overwhelming emotional pain rather than a desire to die, highlighting the importance of prevention, early intervention, and supportive communities. The conversation examines the impact of societal expectations, masculinity, role models, and identity on men's wellbeing, as well as the unique pressures facing young men in a rapidly changing world.The discussion also explores resilience, mentorship, emotional expression, and the importance of creating safe environments where men can speak openly without fear of judgement. Steve shares practical insights on finding purpose, building positive support networks, navigating the influence of social media and the manosphere, and redefining masculinity in healthier and more inclusive ways.The episode concludes with reflections on empathy, recognition, community, and the role we can all play in supporting men's mental health and wellbeing.You can connect with Steve Whittle via his website and LinkedIn.  And  also connect with the host, Susan Popoola, the CEO of Mosaic Fusions, a specialist in human value optimisation, via LinkedIn. Learn more about her work on her Mosaic Fusions website. And publications on Mosaic Gold Ltd.  This series of the podcast is produced by Rafiat Akinwande.Keywords: MosaicWorld, MenInTodaysWorld, GenderHarmony, Men, MaleActualisation, Success, Fulfilment, Boys, Adolescent, Manosphere, Masculinity, PositiveMasculinity, MensWellBeing, YoungMen, HumanValue, SusanPopoola, SteveWhittle, ToughToTalk, MentalHealth, SuicidePrevention, Resilience, EmotionalWellbeing, MensMentalHealthChapters 00:00 Breaking Barriers in Men's Mental Health05:27 Understanding the Value of Life07:52 Defining Male Identity and Experiences12:37 The Evolution of Masculinity19:45 Role Models and Their Impact25:44 Historical Context of Gender Dynamics31:50 Navigating Challenges as Young Men37:21 Finding Positive Role Models41:02 The Balance of Doing the Right Thing44:18 Reclaiming Masculinity52:40 Understanding Men's Emotions55:18 The Joys of Manhood58:12 Celebrating Positive Male Contributions01:02:05 Outro

The "Leading in a Mosaic World" podcast, hosted by Susan Popoola, explores the realities of modern life through conversations with diverse voices and experiences. This episode forms part of a special series exploring the question: “What does it mean to be a man in today’s world?” through conversations with men from different backgrounds, professions, and cultures. The series contributes to the wider mission of creating Gender Harmony in a Mosaic World, a world where men are able to fully be themselves, live fulfilled lives, and add value to others.Today’s guest is Larry DeMarco, an attorney with more than three decades of experience advocating for injured workers and protecting their rights. He is the founder of the Law Centre, which provides free and low-cost resources for self-represented litigants in child custody cases, and serves as Executive Manager of the International Council for Men and Boys, a non-governmental organisation dedicated to promoting the wellbeing of men and boys while advancing gender equality through informed dialogue, research, and advocacy.In this episode, Larry reflects on the realities facing men and boys in today's society, drawing on his legal experience and advocacy work to examine issues surrounding fatherhood, family, mental health, and gender equality. He explores the impact of societal expectations, broken homes, and father absence on children and families, while challenging common assumptions about privilege and highlighting the importance of recognising the unique challenges faced by men and boys.The conversation also explores emotional wellbeing, domestic abuse, public perceptions, and the role of advocacy in creating more balanced and constructive conversations around gender. Larry shares insights into the work of the International Council for Men and Boys, the importance of supporting men's mental health, and practical ways society can foster greater understanding, empathy, and collaboration between men and women.You can connect with Larry DeMarco on linkedin and learn more about the work he does for ei International Council for Men and Boys and The Law Center through their website and social media channels.You can also connect with the host, Susan Popoola, the CEO of Mosaic Fusions, a specialist in human value optimisation, via LinkedIn. Learn more about her work on her Mosaic Fusions website. And publications on Mosaic Gold Ltd. This series of the podcast is produced by Rafiat Akinwande.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Larry DeMarco and His Work03:42 Growing Up in Philadelphia: Challenges and Privileges08:36 The Impact of Father Absence on Boys10:58 Understanding Male Disadvantage and Societal Expectations16:02 The Role of the International Council for Men and Boys19:49 The Crisis of Male Identity and Mental Health23:54 Expectations of Men in Society28:09 Domestic Abuse: A Two-Sided Issue32:54 Raising Awareness and Changing the Narrative36:44 Intersectionality and Male Disadvantage40:39 The Importance of Understanding Men's Emotions46:10 Encouraging Emotional Expression in Men46:51 A Message for Young Men Navigating Today's World48:45 Outro#MosaicWorld #MenInTodaysWorld #GenderHarmony #Men #MaleActualisation #Success #Fulfilment #Boys #Adolescent #Manosphere #Masculinity #PositiveMasculinity #WellBeing #YoungMen #HumanValue #SusanPopoola #LarryDeMarco #InternationalCouncilForMenAndBoys #Fatherhood #GenderEquality #MensMentalHealth #Family #Advocacy #ChildCustody

The "Leading in a Mosaic World" podcast, hosted by Susan Popoola, explores the realities of modern life through conversations with diverse voices and experiences. This episode forms part of a special series exploring the question: “What does it mean to be a man in today’s world?” through conversations with men from different backgrounds, professions, and cultures. The series contributes to the wider mission of creating Gender Harmony in a Mosaic World, a world where men are able to fully be themselves, live fulfilled lives, and add value to others.Today’s guest is Keith Howells, a chartered engineer, entrepreneur, leadership coach, and founder of Project for Learning Lab. After a distinguished career leading complex engineering programmes at Rolls-Royce, Keith now works with organisations and leaders to improve performance through coaching, systems thinking, and human-centred leadership. A former Chair of School Governors and business mentor, he is passionate about developing people, strengthening communities, and helping others reach their potential.In this episode, Keith reflects on the experiences that have shaped his understanding of manhood, leadership, and purpose. Drawing on his upbringing, career, and work with people across different sectors, he explores the influence of family, work ethic, role models, and community in forming identity. The conversation examines how societal expectations, retirement, redundancy, and changing gender roles can affect men's sense of purpose, fulfilment, and emotional wellbeing.The discussion also explores vulnerability, privilege, mentorship, and the importance of creating safe spaces where men can have honest conversations and build meaningful connections. Keith shares practical insights on supporting younger men, navigating social media and modern pressures, embracing authenticity, and finding fulfilment through relationships, contribution, and lifelong learning.The episode concludes with reflections on leadership, empathy, and the role each of us can play in creating a more inclusive society where men are supported to thrive alongside women, families, and communities.You can connect with Keith Howells via LinkedIn and learn more about his work through Project 4 Learning Lab via the websiteYou can also connect with the host, Susan Popoola, the CEO of Mosaic Fusions, a specialist in human value optimisation, via LinkedIn. Learn more about her work on her Mosaic Fusions website. And publications on Mosaic Gold Ltd. This series of the podcast is produced by Rafiat Akinwande.Keywords: MosaicWorld, MenInTodaysWorld, GenderHarmony, Men, MaleActualisation, Success, Fulfilment, Boys, Adolescent, Manosphere, Masculinity, PositiveMasculinity, MensWellBeing, YoungMen, HumanValue, SusanPopoola, KeithHowells, ProjectForLearningLab, Leadership, Mentorship, EmotionalWellbeing, Authenticity, Community, HumanCentredLeadershipChapters 00:00 Introduction on Keith Howells04:10 Growing Up in Swansea: Influences and Values07:03 The Importance of Human Connection in Organizations08:33 Role Models and Their Impact on Identity13:52 Intergenerational Work Ethic and Identity19:08 Transitioning from Job to Identity: A Personal Journey21:57 Privilege and Its Implications25:58 Expectations and Self-Perception in Society28:53 Navigating Expectations: A Guide for Young People33:48 Parenting and Guiding the Next Generation39:14 Mental Health and Masculinity43:01 The Misallocation of Strength and Confidence47:00 The Importance of Dialogue and Reflection50:12 Finding Contentment in Helping Others54:04 Challenging Assumptions and Embracing Humanity

The "Leading in a Mosaic World" podcast, hosted by Susan Popoola, explores the realities of modern life through conversations with diverse voices and experiences. This episode forms part of a special series exploring the question: “What does it mean to be a man in today’s world?” through conversations with men from different backgrounds, professions, and cultures. The series contributes to the wider mission of creating Gender Harmony in a Mosaic World,  a world where men are able to fully be themselves, live fulfilled lives, and add value to others.Today’s guest is Steve Abbott, a business coach, mentor, and former construction industry leader with more than 30 years of experience in business growth, leadership, restructuring, and personal development. Having spent decades leading teams, transforming businesses, and mentoring professionals, Steve now combines business coaching with life coaching to help individuals and organisations achieve sustainable success and fulfilment.In this episode, Steve reflects on manhood, leadership, resilience, and personal growth. Drawing on experiences from both his personal life and professional career, he explores the influence of upbringing, family dynamics, discipline, and role models in shaping character and identity. The conversation examines the pressures facing men today, the impact of technology and social media, and the challenges of balancing responsibility, wellbeing, and authentic self-expression.The discussion also explores communication, mental health, mentorship, and the importance of building strong relationships at home and in the workplace. Steve shares practical insights on developing resilience, creating supportive environments, and finding fulfilment through purpose, growth, and meaningful experiences rather than material success.The episode concludes with reflections on leadership, collaboration, and the role men can play in creating greater understanding, connection, and harmony in society.You can connect with Steve Abbott via his website and LinkedIn. And  also connect with the host, Susan Popoola, the CEO of Mosaic Fusions, a specialist in human value optimisation, via LinkedIn. Learn more about her work on her Mosaic Fusions website. And publications on Mosaic Gold Ltd.  This series of the podcast is produced by Rafiat Akinwande.Keywords: MosaicWorld, MenInTodaysWorld, GenderHarmony, Men, MaleActualisation, Success, Fulfilment, Boys, Adolescent, Manosphere, Masculinity, PositiveMasculinity, MensWellBeing, YoungMen, HumanValue, SusanPopoola, SteveAbbott, Leadership, Resilience, Mentorship, PersonalGrowth, ConstructionLeadershipChapters00:00 Introduction To Men In Today’s World Series01:14 Introduction to Steve Abbott and His Journey03:36 The Impact of Family Dynamics on Personal Growth10:22 Evolving Expectations of Manhood17:33 The Journey of Success and Fulfillment29:50 Mentoring the Next Generation of Men37:09 Understanding the Male Experience41:09 Gender Harmony and Communication46:44 The Importance of Community and Support51:53 Addressing Mental Health in the Construction Industry55:15 Outro