TPP 512: Dr. Katie Hurley on the "Manosphere" & Breaking the Boy Code

TPP 512: Dr. Katie Hurley on the "Manosphere" & Breaking the Boy Code

July 14, 2026 · 45 min

About this episode

Debbie Reber interviews Dr. Katie Hurley about the societal pressures shaping boys' emotional lives and how parents can support their mental health.

Today we’re talking about boys—the messages they receive about emotions, strength, masculinity, and what it means to “be a man” in today’s world. My guest is Dr. Katie Hurley, a child and adolescent psychotherapist, parenting educator, and Vice President of Community Initiatives for The Jed Foundation, a nonprofit focused on youth mental health and suicide prevention. Katie is the author of several books on kids’ and teens’ mental health, and her newest release, Breaking the Boy Code, takes a deep look at the societal pressures shaping boys’ emotional lives. In our conversation, Katie and I explore how traditional expectations around masculinity can impact boys’ mental health, emotional expression, and relationships. We talk about the unique pressures boys are facing today, what can happen when emotions get pushed underground, and practical ways parents can support boys in developing emotional awareness, resilience, and a healthier sense of self. About Dr. Katie Hurley Dr. Katie Hurley is a child and adolescent psychotherapist, parenting educator, public speaker, and writer, and is the Vice President of Community Initiatives for The Jed Foundation (JED), a nonprofit dedicated to…

People in this episode

Host: Debbie Reber

Guest: Dr. Katie Hurley

Topics covered

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: The Jed Foundation

Books & works: Breaking the Boy Code, No More Mean Girls: The Secret to Raising Strong, Confident, and Compassionate Girls, The Depression Workbook for Teens: Tools to Improve Your Mood, Build Self-Esteem, and Stay Motivated, The Happy Kid Handbook

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