In this episode, Max talks to Naomi Morrison from the Pennine Domestic Abuse Partnership (PDAP) about the manosphere, toxic masculinity, and how online spaces can shape what young people believe about gender, power, and relationships.

Naomi explains what the manosphere is, why some young men are drawn into this content, and how algorithms can gradually pull people toward more extreme and misogynistic ideas. They discuss how harmful messages about masculinity can spill over into school, friendships, dating, and consent, often disguised as jokes, banter, or self improvement advice.

The conversation also explores what healthy masculinity looks like, how to think critically about male influencers, and what young people can do if they notice friends being drawn into toxic content. Naomi shares practical tips on challenging harmful ideas safely, reporting abusive or extremist material, and finding trusted adults, positive role models, and supportive spaces offline.

Useful links and support

• PDAP https://pdap.co.uk/
• Support with domestic abuse in the UK UK National Domestic Abuse Helpline (Refuge) - information and support: https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk
• Destination information and opportunities for young people Website: www.destination.org.uk
• University of Kent - research on online harms and digital culture Website: https://www.kent.ac.uk
• VRU

Please check local and trusted services if you or someone you know needs support.

This episode was kindly funded by the Mayor of West Yorkshire through the Mayor's Safer Communities Fund and the Mayor's People Fund.

Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes or sign up to the Destination information & opportunities web-app for teens and young adults at www.destination.org.uk where you can find loads of useful life-benefiting content for young people.

You can also follow up on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod)

Special thanks to Jimi for editing and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.

Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music.