Barack Obama identifies the misstep of progressive individuals in persistently discussing the flaws in boys' behaviors
In a recent appearance on the "IMO" podcast, former President Barack Obama discussed the importance of recognising and supporting the positive aspects of young men's lives, rather than focusing solely on their mistakes. Obama argued that progressives have overlooked what boys have been doing right and instead have focused on what they've been doing wrong.
Obama explained that while well-intentioned efforts have been made to ensure girls have a level playing field and are not barred from opportunities, this has led to boys' challenges being scrutinised more negatively. He emphasised that assuming boys will "be okay" because they have historically held advantages is misguided; neglecting their emotional and social upbringing can ultimately harm women as well.
The former President expressed criticism of the younger generation for leaving behind some of the good aspects of what the "old models" of manhood contained, such as chivalry. He used an anecdote about his daughters' male friends to illustrate this point. Obama argued that this oversight occurred because progressives were hyper-focused on ensuring a "level playing field" for girls, which led to boys' flaws being put under a microscope.
However, Obama finds it promising that young men are beginning to realise that there are many different ways of being a "good, strong, successful, happy man." He expressed support for the parents of boys, stating that he and his wife are counting on them to raise "good guys" in all aspects of life.
Joining Obama on the podcast were Craig Robinson and Michelle Obama, who also praised the former President's parenting despite the grandeur of his job. In a previous statement, Michelle Obama implied that she believes her husband would have been a successful man if they had had a son. The discussion covered the need for modifications in the old models of manhood due to blind spots, limits, or lack of resources.
Obama believes that the lack of intentional investment in boys has been a mistake and that people are starting to recognise this. He emphasised that raising boys to be good, strong, successful, and happy men is not just about marriage prospects but about broadly supporting them in life. This approach would help address broader societal issues and support both genders more effectively.
[1] "Former President Barack Obama criticises progressives for focusing on boys' mistakes rather than accomplishments." The Guardian, 17 July 2025. [2] "Obama discusses the need for modifications in the old models of manhood." CNN, 16 July 2025. [3] "Michelle Obama praises Barack Obama's parenting despite the grandeur of his job." People, 17 July 2025.
- The discussion between Obama, Robinson, and Michelle Obama on the "IMO" podcast highlighted the need for progressives to shift their focus from boys' mistakes to their education and self-development, as a means of promoting personal growth and improving general news-related societal issues.
- In the article "Obama discusses the need for modifications in the old models of manhood" published by CNN on July 16, 2025, former President Barack Obama advocated for policy and legislation changes that aim to address the blind spots, limits, or lack of resources in the traditional models of manhood, with the goal of promoting equal opportunities for both genders in various aspects of life, including politics.
