What does it really take to raise kind, emotionally aware boys in a world still shaped by patriarchy and outdated gender roles?
To kick off Season 6 of The Unaparent, Katia sits down with viral creator and educator Payal Desai—known online for her powerful “Dusty Son” series. In this episode, they discuss the pressures and possibilities of raising boys differently, how her background as a teacher influences her parenting, and what it’s like to share that journey online as a South Asian mom.
They also touch on:
Don’t miss this powerful and heartfelt start to a season that dives deep into the intersections of caregiving, identity, and justice.
📲 Follow Payal: @payalforstyle
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The Unaparent Podcast is a Studio Dama production. For production, sponsorship, and ad inquiries contact marina@studiodamadesign.com or send a DM to @studio.dama.design
SHOW NOTES:
00:00 – Katia Catch-Up & Guest Introduction
02:45 – An Unapparent Truth of Parenting
06:10 – The Journey into Motherhood & Virality
10:22 – Raising Gentle Boys in a "Toughen Up" Culture
14:00 – The "Rowdy Boy" Trope and Language Shifts at Home
17:36 – Challenging Gender Roles as a South Asian Mom
21:12 – Leaving the Classroom, Finding New Purpose
24:50 – Teaching Through Social Media: The Weight of Visibility
29:05 – Hope & Legacy: What Payal Wants for Her Sons
33:30 – Final Reflections & Plug