Episodes: 

1. Mapping Change: Why Are Men in Cyprus Redefining Care?

How are gender relations changing in Cyprus today, and what is the new role of men within the family and society? In the first episode of the podcast series “Andrologies,” Maria Angeli discusses with Andria Christofidou, Lecturer in the Department of Social and Political Sciences at the University of Cyprus and Principal Investigator of the research project “Men on a Path of Change.” They discuss men and masculinities in a changing social landscape. 

This episode explores: 

• What is the methodology behind the research, and what does it reveal about the changing roles of men in Cypriot society? 

• How do the findings from Cyprus compare with international experience? 

• Why is dialogue between academia, the arts and civil society essential for achieving gender equality? 

A discussion about care, changing men and masculinities in Cyprus. 

2. The Role of the Father During the Perinatal Period 

How does a man’s journey into caregiving begin, and why is the father’s presence important from the very first moments of a child’s life? Maria Angeli welcomes Ioli Orphanidou from the organisation “Birth Forward” for a discussion about parenthood, fatherhood and the need for an equal sharing of care from the very beginning. 

This episode explores: 

• What is the meaningful role of men during pregnancy and childbirth? 

• Are we really seeing more caring fathers in Cyprus in recent years? 

• Which public policies are needed during the perinatal period? 

A discussion about parenthood as a shared space of love and responsibility. 

3. Careunder the Spotlight: Work, Trade Unionism and Gender Equality 

How does the traditional role of the man as the breadwinner affect his personal life and the gender relations within society? In this new episode of “Andrologies,” Maria Angeli speaks with Marina Koukou, Executive Secretary of PEO and the person responsible for equality issues. They focus on the world of work, where gender expectations often become an obstacle to equal participation in caregiving. 

This episode seeks to answer the following questions: 

• What policies are in place to support parenthood? 

• Why is paternity leave important, and how is it promoted through trade unionism? 

• How can the workplace become more supportive of families and caregiving? 

A discussion about workplace rights and social justice. 

4. Ageing and Care: Breaking the Stereotypes of the “Tough” Man 

How do men experience the transition into older age, and how does accepting care redefine their identity? In this new episode of “Andrologies,” Maria Angeli welcomes Dimos Antoniou, Executive President of the Cyprus Third Age Observatory. Through an empathetic discussion, they examine ageing not as the end of activity, but as a period during which gender roles can be transformed. 

This episode raises important questions: 

• Which stereotypes about ageing remain persistent in Cypriot society? 

• How do men themselves experience vulnerability and the need for care? 

• Is there a change in the behaviour of younger men as caregivers for their parents? 

• How is the role of the “grandfather” becoming more caring today compared with previous decades? 

• Which policies are needed for the care of older people? 

A discussion about dignity, rights and the necessary policies of care. 

5. Raising Caring Boys: Education as a Shield Against Toxic Models

How can we cultivate a new generation of men who embrace care, empathy and respect? In this episode of the series, Maria Angeli welcomes Stalo Lesta, a group facilitator specialising in feminist pedagogy. It is a discussion about masculinities and the future, beginning in early childhood and within the school environment. 

This episode asks: 

• What does “feminist pedagogy” mean in practice, and how can it be applied in everyday life? 

• How can playing teach boys the value of care? 

• How can we address the return to toxic models of masculinity that dominate the internet? 

• What is the first piece of advice that parents and educators need today? 

A call to action and a message of hope for a more inclusive society. 

Coming in August 

6. The Stage of Change: Can Theatre Transform Masculinity?

Can art become the tool that breaks down old models and shows us new ways of living together? In the final episode of the “Andrologies” series, Maria Angeli meets theatre director Magdalena Zira to explore the relationship between theatre and masculinity. From ancient drama to the contemporary stage, theatre functions both as a mirror and as a guide for social change. 

The episode focuses on the following questions: 

• How does ancient drama provide us with tools to challenge contemporary gender stereotypes? 

• How can theatre open a constructive dialogue without making audiences defensive through excessive didacticism? 

• What is the role of art in shaping new forms of gender roles? 

A journey through the power of representation and the magic of a stage that dares to challenge established ideas. 

Coming in September