Amid the ongoing discussions about challenges men and boys face in work, school, and other aspects of life, there’s a deeper question behind the statistics: what actually anchors young men and helps form their character? 

On this episode, host Nic Dunn and contributor Beth Akers sit down with Sam Abrams to discuss the formative role of families, faith, educational institutions, and mentorship in shaping men of character and purpose. They explore how changes in campus culture and the loss of brotherhood in many areas of public life have left many young men feeling adrift — and why rebuilding those anchors is essential. 

Sam is a nonresident senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, a visiting fellow at the Sutherland Institute, and a professor of politics and social science at Sarah Lawrence College.

Show notes:

• Micro-supports: A small idea that could change the future for young men
• New national survey data sheds light on the “silent, struggling subset” of American men

Defending Ideas is a weekly podcast produced by Sutherland Institute. On this show, we are committed to renewing the principles of common sense conservatism, making you a better champion of sound ideas. Visit defendingideas.org.


Defending Ideas is a weekly podcast produced by Sutherland Institute. On this show, we are committed to renewing the principles of common sense conservatism, making you a better champion of sound ideas. Visit defendingideas.org.