What does it really take to raise emotionally resilient boys in today's digital world? This question sits at the heart of my conversation with Nicky, life coach and mother of two teenage sons navigating the complex landscape of modern masculinity.

The conversation delves deep into how boys learn respect for women directly through their relationships with their mothers. Through a powerful story about enforcing PlayStation boundaries, Nicky illustrates how maintaining calm, loving firmness rather than reactive anger creates both respect and deeper connection. "I cannot let you disrespect me in that way," she told her son during a challenging moment – not as a power play, but as an act of love that teaches boundaries while honoring emotions.

We explore the courage required to have uncomfortable conversations about sexuality, consent, and pornography – topics many parents avoid due to their own discomfort. Nicky suggests that when parents are willing to acknowledge their own awkwardness while still addressing these subjects factually, it creates safety for boys to ask questions without shame. This approach stands in stark contrast to the "because I said so" parenting many of us experienced growing up.

Listen to this episode if you're raising boys, work with young people, or simply want to understand how emotional intelligence can transform our approach to difficult conversations both at home and in the workplace. 

Connect with Nicky on Instagram or reach out via her website to continue learning about emotional resilience.

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