Healthy Masculinity with Richie Hardcore

In this episode of Untidy, Matilda and Hannah are joined by Richie Hardcore, former Muay Thai champion, educator, and speaker on healthy masculinity, mental health, and preventing gendered violence. Richie works with young people, schools, and communities across Aotearoa, bringing lived experience and practical tools into spaces where these conversations are needed most.

CONTENT WARNING: Some of this conversation may be upsetting to some listeners. This episode discusses topics including family violence, sexual violence, pornography, and toxic online influences. Please take care and choose a time and a place to listen that’s right for you.

In this kōrero, Richie shares his personal story of growing up around family harm, how he found resilience through fighting and music, and what led him to dedicate his life to cultural change. We talk about the very real risks facing boys today, from toxic online influences to the normalisation of porn, and how parents and caregivers can better support their kids.

We dive into what healthy masculinity actually looks like, why role models matter so much, and how we can create spaces where young people feel safe to be vulnerable, respectful, and true to themselves. It’s a big, sometimes confronting conversation, but one filled with hope and compassion.

Whether you’re raising boys, working with young people, or reflecting on your own journey, this episode will give you insight, strategies, and a lot to think about.

References mentioned in the show:

• Richie Hardcore website: richiehardcore.com
• Richie Hardcore Instagram: @richiehardcore
• The Grace Foundation (support for people on bail)
• The Light Project (youth, porn literacy & relationships education)
• Before 16 campaign (advocating to delay social media access)
• InnerBoy app (Matt & Sarah Brown / She Is Not Your Rehab)
• Tricky Chats (resources for parents by Joe Robertson)
• Big Brothers Big Sisters of NZ (Youth mentoring)

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