What does masculinity mean in today's workplace?

This episode moves beyond outdated stereotypes to explore the powerful dynamic of masculine and feminine energies—and why a healthy balance is crucial for modern leadership.

Andy Lopata is joined by Stephen Whitton, a leader from the UK automotive industry, and DEI practitioner Moe Carrick. Together, they redefine masculine energy as the drive for goals and competition, and feminine energy as the capacity for compassion, collaboration, and empathy. The conversation reveals how workplaces have historically over-promoted dysfunctional masculine traits like "rugged individualism" while suppressing essential feminine ones, to the detriment of all genders.

Andy, Stephen and Moe discuss the paradox faced by men and women: women who display masculine traits are often labeled "aggressive," while men who show vulnerability are seen as "weak." The guests provide actionable advice for leaders, from fostering curiosity and psychological safety to systemising "connective labour"—the essential work of making employees feel seen and valued.

This episode isn't about demonising masculinity. It’s a powerful call to celebrate its positive aspects—like drive and courage—while integrating them with the feminine energies we all possess, allowing everyone to show up as their authentic, whole selves.

What We Discussed in the Episode:

1. Energy, Not Gender: Reframing the debate from a binary of men and women to a spectrum of "masculine" (driven, competitive) and "feminine" (collaborative, empathetic) energies that exist in everyone.
2. The Cost of Imbalance: Workplaces have long rewarded dysfunctional masculine traits while penalising feminine ones, leading to burnout, a lack of authenticity, and poor mental well-being for all employees.
3. The Vulnerability Paradox: Vulnerability is a key feminine trait essential for modern leadership, yet men are often punished for showing it, while women are penalised for displaying traditionally "strong" masculine traits.
4. The Leadership Shift: Leaders must actively cultivate environments of curiosity and acceptance.
5. Celebrating Healthy Masculinity: The goal isn't to eliminate masculine energy but to integrate it. Drive, ambition, and strength are vital, but become truly powerful when balanced with compassion and collaboration.

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | YouTube

Connect with Moe Carrick: Website |LinkedIn |

Connect with Stephen Whitton: Website

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