Erica Komisar – The Inconvenient Truth about Parenting in 2025

In this thought-provoking episode, Pete Hunt welcomes back psychoanalyst and bestselling author Erica Komisar, following a year of exponential growth in her reach and message — including a recent appearance on The Diary of a CEO. Known for challenging modern parenting ideals, Erica confronts the uncomfortable truths about early attachment, the myth of “having it all,” and why parental presence in a child’s early years is non-negotiable.

Whether you’re a father, partner, or simply someone reflecting on how you were parented — this conversation offers both a reality check and a powerful invitation to rethink what children really need.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction

01:29 – Why Erica’s message is seen as controversial

04:03 – The cost of early childcare trade-offs

09:20 – Narcissism and unmet emotional needs

13:00 – The impact of different attachment styles

18:04 – Boarding school and emotional detachment

23:30 – The social media narrative vs. real parenting

27:00 – Why guilt shouldn’t be ignored

32:16 – “Second chances” and late-stage fatherhood

36:45 – Teenagers, tech, and the void of play

41:00 – Starting deeper conversations with your kids

47:00 – Reframing parenting as teamwork

52:30 – Careers, control, and the realities of modern motherhood

1:03:00 – The long-term impact of early disconnection

To find out more about the private network Pete founded for growth-focused leaders, visit:

www.monumental.global

How Privileged Are You? Take the Scorecard:

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In this powerful episode of The Privileged Man Podcast, Pete Hunt sits down with Nick Duffell, psychotherapist, author, and pioneer of work around boarding school trauma. They explore why so many high-achieving men with these privileged backgrounds feel emotionally stuck, the hidden impact of early survival strategies, and how intimacy becomes one of life’s greatest challenges. A raw and essential listen for men navigating midlife, relationships, and identity.

Timestamps 

 00:00 – Introduction

01:29 – Why relationships are so hard for men

04:46 – Boarding school and emotional shutdown

07:52 – The missing emotional training

11:15 – Listening as a lost skill

15:08 – Survivor roles and disconnection

22:04 – The gift of emotional energy

24:06 – The mother wound

32:00 – The child self in adult relationships

36:10 – Institutional life vs. intimacy

43:00 – The missing father figure

47:02 – Mentorship and male role models

50:00 – The impact of porn and overstimulation

53:40 – Power through vulnerability

To find out more about the private network that Pete founded for growth focused leaders, visit www.monumental.global

To understand your Wheel of Life in 90 seconds, click this link

https://insight.monumental.global/wheeloflife

In a special departure from the usual one-on-one format, host Pete Hunt of The Privileged Man Podcast, who also Founded "Monumental", welcomes George, Mike, Oli, Sam, and Ben, a group of Monumental members, for a candid conversation about what really goes on inside Monumental.

Together, they discuss how meaningful support, honest dialogue, and putting down the “mask” can transform men’s relationships, careers, and overall sense of fulfilment.

For more information, please click on this link. https://monumental.global/

To understand your Wheel of Life (in just 90 seconds) click on this link. https://insight.monumental.global/wheeloflife

Why do so many men lose friendships in midlife? And what does science say about the impact of social isolation on male health and well-being?

In this episode of The Privileged Man Podcast, host Pete Hunt sits down with renowned evolutionary psychologist Robin Dunbar to explore the biological and social foundations of male friendship. Dunbar, a leading expert in human relationships, explains why men are wired for structured social networks—and why losing them can have serious consequences.

Find out how privileged you REALLY are in just 90 seconds by clicking here.

https://insight.monumental.global/privilegedman

In this episode, Pete and Robin discuss:

• The Male Friendship Crisis – Why friendships decline for men in their 40s and 50s, and how work and family pressures play a role.
• The Social Brain Hypothesis – How our brains evolved to manage complex social groups, and why maintaining friendships is essential for survival.
• Male vs. Female Friendships – Why men bond through activities rather than emotional sharing, and how this affects the longevity of their relationships.
• The Midlife Danger Zone – How loneliness impacts men’s mental and physical health, and why social isolation is as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
• The Power of Tribe – How structured networks like Monumental can help men rebuild friendships, strengthen social ties, and rediscover a sense of belonging.
• Redesigning Male Friendships – What the future of male community looks like and how men can take action to strengthen their relationships.

Robin Dunbar’s research sheds light on one of the biggest but least talked-about issues facing modern men: the quiet disappearance of close friendships. In this conversation, he shares powerful insights into how men can reconnect, why tribal bonds matter, and what every man needs to know about maintaining deep, meaningful relationships.

Monumental

The Monumental Network - The Private Network For Growth Focused Leaders

Monumental is an invite-only, private network for leaders ready to challenge their status quo and grow with purpose that was Founded by Pete Hunt, the host of The Privileged Man Podcast.

Through weekly confidential pod meetings and monthly in-person events, Monumental creates a space where men connect authentically and hold each other accountable.

Here, leaders are free to drop the mask, speak openly, and move beyond isolation.

The Network empowers men to uncover their true potential, cultivate purpose, and leave meaningful legacies.

And we have a lot of fun doing it.

For more information, please click on this link. https://monumental.global/

Podcast Production by Podders: https://podders.io 

Join host Pete Hunt as he sits down with seasoned Everest guide Kenton Cool, whose record of 18 summits and elite experience in the death zone speaks for itself, for a candid conversation about leadership, vulnerability, and the hard-won lessons from life at extreme altitude.

Find out how privileged you REALLY are in just 90 seconds by clicking here.

https://insight.monumental.global/privilegedman

In this episode, Pete and Kenton discuss:

• Navigating the Death Zone: Leading clients in Everest's death zone requires unwavering confidence, rigorous prep, and full accountability.
• Building and Sustaining Confidence: Kenton shows how facing repeated challenges—from early setbacks to high-altitude feats—builds real confidence.
• From “I” to “We”: Transitioning from a solo, thrill-seeking lifestyle to embracing collective responsibility for team and family.
• Leadership: Power vs. Presence: Exploring decision-making on Everest, from collaborative planning to assertive, genuine leadership.
• Confronting Mortality on the Mountain: Reflecting on Everest's harsh realities, the emotional impact of fallen climbers, and human vulnerability.
• Balancing Extremes and Vulnerability: Discussing how extreme challenges and social media spark an inner dialogue on self-worth and the need for safe spaces.

Kenton Cool shatters limits with 18 Everest summits and 45+ expeditions, including the first British ski descent of an 8,000-m peak and the Everest Triple Crown. Overcoming a near-fatal injury, his guiding career embodies raw resilience and calculated risk. Join Pete as he uncovers the hard-won wisdom of extreme adventure.

Monumental

The Monumental Network - The Private Network For Growth Focused Leaders

Monumental is an invite-only, private network for leaders ready to challenge their status quo and grow with purpose that was Founded by Pete Hunt, the host of The Privileged Man Podcast.

Through weekly confidential pod meetings and monthly in-person events, Monumental creates a space where men connect authentically and hold each other accountable.

Here, leaders are free to drop the mask, speak openly, and move beyond isolation.

The Network empowers men to uncover their true potential, cultivate purpose, and leave meaningful legacies.

And we have a lot of fun doing it.

For more information, please click on this link. https://monumental.global/

Podcast Production by Podders: https://podders.io 

Join host Pete Hunt on The Privileged Man Podcast as he sits down with esteemed society photographer Sam Pelly for an open and deeply reflective conversation about identity, self-expression, and the journey to emotional and creative freedom.

Find out how privileged you REALLY are in just 90 seconds by clicking here.

https://insight.monumental.global/privilegedman

In this episode, Pete and Sam discuss:

• The power of storytelling through photography and how capturing the essence of his subjects has shaped Sam’s career.
• The challenges of identity and self-worth, growing up as the eldest of three brothers and navigating life in the shadow of a well-known sibling.
• The impact of early boarding school experiences and the deep emotional imprint they leave on men.
• The importance of emotional awareness and self-inquiry in relationships, fatherhood, and personal growth.
• The courage to embrace truth and transformation through life’s major transitions, including divorce and redefining success.
• The healing journey of men’s work, nature, and creative exploration, and how Sam now helps others step into deeper authenticity.

Renowned for his work with Vogue, Tatler, The Telegraph, and institutions such as the National Portrait Gallery, Sam Pelly has built an extraordinary career capturing everything from fashion campaigns to Royal weddings. His lens has taken him across the world, working alongside legendary photographers including Peter Lindbergh, Paolo Roversi, Patrick Lichfield, and Mirella Ricciardi.

But beyond the camera, Sam’s personal journey has been just as remarkable. From an idyllic yet complex childhood to finding his own creative and emotional voice, he shares how his search for belonging and truth has shaped both his art and his life.

A self-described “scribe of imagery, a storyteller of soul and wonder”, Sam reflects on how photography has reframed his world—helping him see beauty everywhere and connect with the infinite mystery of life.

Join Pete and Sam as they explore the courage to feel, the power of authenticity, and the privilege of being truly alive.

Monumental

The Monumental Network - The Private Network For Growth Focused Leaders

Monumental is an invite-only, private network for leaders ready to challenge their status quo and grow with purpose that was Founded by Pete Hunt, the host of The Privileged Man Podcast.

Through weekly confidential pod meetings and monthly in-person events, Monumental creates a space where men connect authentically and hold each other accountable.

Here, leaders are free to drop the mask, speak openly, and move beyond isolation.

The Network empowers men to uncover their true potential, cultivate purpose, and leave meaningful legacies.

And we have a lot of fun doing it.

For more information, please click on this link. https://monumental.global/

Join host Pete Hunt as he sits down with Freddie Carr, a six-time America's Cup competitor and winner of the Louis Vuitton Cup in 20224. Freddie opens up about his incredible career, the transition from elite-level sport to life beyond the Cup, and the invaluable lessons he’s learned along the way.

Pete and Freddie discuss:

• Navigating life after high-performance sport – the challenges of stepping away from an elite team environment.
• The mental and physical toll of competitive sailing – from extreme training regimens to the exhaustion that follows.
• The evolution of the America's Cup – how the sport has transitioned from traditional sailing to high-speed, high-tech foiling machines.
• The role of leadership and team culture – the importance of communication, camaraderie, and “checking the ropes” with teammates.
• The impact of loss in high-risk sports – reflecting on the tragic passing of Andrew ‘Bart’ Simpson and its lasting effect on the sailing community.
• What’s next for Freddie – from exploring opportunities in business to rediscovering his love for traditional sailing.

This episode is packed with insights on resilience, leadership, and the mental side of elite competition. Tune in for an honest and engaging conversation that goes beyond the racecourse.

Find out how privileged you REALLY are by taking the quiz…

https://insight.monumental.global/privilegedman

The Monumental Network - The Private Network For Growth Focused Leaders

Monumental is an invite-only, private network for leaders ready to challenge their status quo and grow with purpose that was Founded by Pete Hunt, the host of The Privileged Man Podcast.

Through weekly confidential pod meetings and monthly in-person events, Monumental creates a space where men connect authentically and hold each other accountable.

Here, leaders are free to drop the mask, speak openly, and move beyond isolation.

The Network empowers men to uncover their true potential, cultivate purpose, and leave meaningful legacies.

And we have a lot of fun doing it.

For more information, please click on this link. https://monumental.global/

Bob Skinstad is a former Springbok captain, entrepreneur, and advocate for community-driven change. In this episode, Bob reflects on his extraordinary rugby career, which includes leading South Africa to victory in the 2007 Rugby World Cup and overcoming personal challenges like imposter syndrome.

Expect to learn:

• Bob's most memorable rugby moments and toughest defeats.
• How Bob tackled the pressure of leadership and anxiety early in his career.
• His insights on building a sense of belonging and fostering resilience in teams.

Bob also discusses the role of sport as a unifying force in South Africa, his thoughts on privilege, and the lessons he hopes to pass on to the next generation. This is a captivating conversation with one of rugby’s most insightful leaders.

00:00 Introduction to Rugby and Personal Struggles

06:49 Memorable Moments in Rugby

11:45 The Internal Battle of Belonging

17:58 Understanding Privilege and Its Impact

24:08 Reflections on Family and Financial Legacy

30:38 Leadership and Governance Challenges

33:46 Cultural Reflections: South Africa vs. the UK

36:20 The Legacy of Apartheid and Its Impact

39:40 Celebrating Progress and Good Governance

42:31 Navigating Privilege and Responsibility

46:17 The Role of Sports in Unifying Society

48:50 The Impact of Technology on Youth

52:43 Mental Health and Community Support

57:29 Vision for a Better Future

You may know that Pete Hunt, the host of The Privileged Man Podcast is also the Founder of Monumental, a personal development platform for male business owners and leaders.

For More Information on Monumental:

- Monumental - https://monumental.global/

- Monumental Testimonials - https://monumental.global/testimonials/

- Take The Privileged Man ScoreCard - https://insight.monumental.global/privilegedman

Get in Touch:

Podcast Instagram: @theprivilegedman

Private Instagram: @pete_hunt_

Email: [email protected]

Kevin Ellis is the former Chairman and Senior Partner of PwC UK & Middle East.

In this conversation, Kevin reflects on his journey at PWC spanning nearly four decades.

Kevin shares insights on navigating economic uncertainty and embracing failure as a pathway to growth.

Expect to learn:

• How Kevin prioritised mental health and work-life balance.
• Kevin’s approach to building trust and culture in times of crisis, like the Pandemic.
• And the lessons he drew from his family and career about resilience and leadership.

Kevin also discusses his transition into retirement, his newfound passions, and the legacy he hopes to leave, both personally and professionally.

This episode offers a rare glimpse into the mind of a leader of a Top 4 Accountancy Firm. 

00:00 Reflections on Leadership and Change

02:59 Navigating the Pathway to Employment

06:01 Integrity and Decision-Making in Leadership

09:11 Building Trust During Crisis

11:59 The Importance of Support Systems

15:07 Balancing Work and Family Life

17:53 Health and Well-being in Leadership

21:03 Life After Retirement: New Beginnings

23:58 Legacy and Future Aspirations

You may know that Pete Hunt, the host of The Privileged Man Podcast is also the Founder of Monumental, a personal development platform for male business owners and leaders.

For More Information on Monumental:

- Monumental - https://monumental.global/

- Monumental Testimonials - https://monumental.global/testimonials/

- Find out your "Wheel of Life" score in just 90 seconds - https://insight.monumental.global/whe…

Get in Touch:

Podcast Instagram: @theprivilegedman

Private Instagram: @pete_hunt_

Email: [email protected]

Join host Pete Hunt as he delves into all the challenges of education with Will Turner, headmaster at Ryde School on the Isle of Wight (Pete's home Island). Pete and Will cover:

• The dangers of social media and smartphone use for young people.
• The future of education in the age of AI and technological advancements.
• Proposed changes to the curriculum and assessment processes.
• The evolution of boarding school environments and student well-being.
• The importance of empathy and counseling in supporting students emotionally.

Will Turner brings a wealth of experience in education and school leadership. His academic journey began at a boarding school in Cambridge at the age of 15, followed by university studies in French and Italian. Will's passion for teaching emerged in his final university year, kickstarting his career at the renowned Sherborne School in Dorset.

His professional path saw him taking pivotal roles at prestigious institutions such as Harrow School, St John's School, and UWC Adriatic in Italy. His international experience includes working with students on full and partial scholarships, offering him diverse insights into varying educational environments.

Since joining Ryde School two years ago, Will has championed significant changes, including policies on smartphone use and advocating for a "dumb phone" alternative for younger students to encourage face-to-face interactions. An advocate for modernising the curriculum, he aims to integrate AI and diagnostic programs to enhance learning experiences, focusing on developing skills relevant to the workplace.

00:00 Introduction

00:53 Career experience/background

05:33 Will’s parents separation during GCSE year

09:04 Wished for counseling during university for support

13:26 Modern boarding schools

15:14 Boarding school experiences in mixed environments

18:39 Changes in safeguarding practices

21:07 Safe age for children to start boarding

24:47 Increased parental involvement in boarding

29:26 DVDs replacing videos

31:38 School recommending “dumb phone” for students

33:40 Lack of awareness about online dangers

38:26 Adolescence - Insecurities and embarrassing moments

41:55 AI in schools

46:23 Potential impact of VAT on school fees

49:23 Universities shifting to open book assessments

53:13 Preference for International Baccalaureate over A-levels

54:38 Call for comprehensive curriculum review for all ages

You may know that Pete Hunt, the host of The Privileged Man Podcast is also the Founder of Monumental, a personal development platform for male business owners and leaders.

For More Information on Monumental:

- Monumental - https://monumental.global/

- Monumental Testimonials - https://monumental.global/testimonials/

- Find out your "Wheel of Life" score in just 90 seconds - https://insight.monumental.global/whe…

Get in Touch:

Podcast Instagram: @theprivilegedman

Private Instagram: @pete_hunt_

Email: [email protected]