In this episode Dara is reflecting on masculinity for a couple of reasons. One is the continuing aftershock of the death of Pepper the dog, the other is because of the continuing presentation of a narrow version of masculinity that seems somewhat inadequate for purpose.

Dara thought he was coping reasonably well on his grief journey, but he shares two unexpected moments that completely opened him up. It makes him think about the depth of feeling within all of us that can so easily be untapped.

Jason Wilson is a prominent men's advocate in the US, but he speaks about masculinity and its relation to femininity in very traditionally gendered terms that Dara finds himself resisting a little. That said, the fundamental struggle between male vulnerability and toughness is very recognisable and relatable. What is the path most likely to lead to a type of masculinity that can easily contain both?

Finally, a little acknowledgement of the late Terence Stamp and a further callback to the recently departed Michael Madsen.

Quentin Tarantino's tribute to Michael Madsen (including link to Madsen interview): https://thenewbev.com/blog/2025/07/pure-cinema-podcast-quentin-tarantinos-tribute-to-michael-madsen/

The ClearOut episode on Terence Stamp in Billy Budd: https://theclearout.com/podcast/billy-budd-russell-brand-and-the-dark-corners-of-male-desire-episode-122/

Higher Learning episode with Jason Wilson: https://www.theringer.com/podcasts/higher-learning-van-lathan-rachel-lindsay/2025/04/15/kyren-lacy-and-the-mental-wellness-of-black-men-with-jason-wilson

Website: https://theclearout.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theclearoutpodcast/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theclearoutpodcast/

YouTube: The ClearOut Podcast

Email: theclearoutlive@gmail.com

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theclearout

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.