Boy Talk
Lacking aspiration. Corrupted by the manosphere. Lost. Confused. Failing their exams. Lacking motivation. That's what we are told about boys. But how much of this is true? Are boys and young men a problem to be fixed, or the source of huge untapped potential? Boy Talk aims to find out. It's a series of honest conversations about the challenges facing boys and young men hosted by Peter Hyman, Chair of the Boys' Education Commission, and former headteacher and political advisor. He talks to fascinating people on the challenges boys face and how we can help them to thrive. With insights, personal stories, controversial views and calls for action, these lively 30 minute discussions have one big aim - to start a debate on how we get all boys to thrive. Whether you are a parents, a teacher, a young person, a charity, an employer or a policy maker - join the conversation.
Call for Evidence: https://www.menandboys.org.uk/boys-education-commission/callforevidence
Podcasts are available to watch now on YouTube
Stay up to date on the Commission by following our LinkedIn and Instagram
Find out more via our Website
Sign up to read Peter Hyman's 'Changing the Story' blog: available here
Episodes
Jul 29, 2026
Jul 29, 2026
34 min
Caroline Barlow is a formidable headteacher with strong views on how we need to listen more to boys and understand them better. She believes that the language we use and the way we relate to boys is crucial to getting the most out of them. She talks about the alpha male stand-off that sometimes happens between boys and male teachers - and the need for boys to feel seen and heard and respected. She busts some myths, particularly about the need to make everything active for boys and says we've got to raise the bar for boys not lower it. Barlow has 33 years of education experience and leads a rural secondary school in Sussex. Her thoughtful approach has managed to close the attainment gap between boys and girls in her school. She is also a national leader and co-chair of the Headteachers' Roundtable, a think tank arguing for education change.
Call for Evidence: submit here
Podcasts are available to watch now on YouTube
Stay up to date on the Commission by following our LinkedIn and Instagram
Find out more via our Website
Edited and produced by Aedan Wilson
Jul 22, 2026
Jul 22, 2026
33 min
I have known Jeffrey since I co-founded School 21 and he became our first English teacher and an inspiration to students and staff alike. He is one of the most extraordinary teachers I have ever had the pleasure of working with and as if that wasn’t enough he is now a broadcaster and prolific author. His book I Heard What You Said: A Black Teacher, a White System is about being black in a white school system. He’s also written children’s books that among other things weave his love of music into compelling stories. This conversation touches on why some boys struggle to read and write and what can be done about it. We also discuss the thorny issue of male identity. Jeffrey believes that boys have 'an almost fatal limitation in how they can express themselves' and too many boys have 'a very crude palette of emotions to paint with'. He also explains the importance of black music and culture to boys of all backgrounds. Enjoy!
Call for Evidence: submit here
Podcasts are available to watch now on YouTube
Stay up to date on the Commission by following our LinkedIn and Instagram
Find out more via our Website
Edited and produced by Aedan Wilson