In today's episode titled "Dads and Gender Equality," we delve deep into the potential that the role of fatherhood plays in achieving gender equality.
I am joined by the fabulous Ian Dinwiddy, a dedicated fatherhood and flexible work advocate, who shares with us the importance of inclusive parenting and the pivotal role that workplaces play in this equation.
Ian shares his vast expertise as a coach, mentoring businesses on the necessity of supporting new dads as part of their gender equality strategies. Not only does he discuss the societal implications of extended paternity leave, but he also highlights the mental health benefits and the positive impact on women's careers that can arise when men engage more actively at home.
Three key takeaways from this episode include:
1. The transformative power of extended parental leave not only for attracting talent but also for shaking the core values of a company towards more inclusivity.
2. The importance of breaking down traditional gender roles and acknowledging the growing desire among men to participate in caregiving and foster balanced relationships.
3. The intersection of gender equality with mental health, as well as the underestimated financial and social advantages that come with shared parenting responsibilities.
As you listen, I encourage you to reflect on this question:
What steps can we take within our own organisations or personal lives to challenge and change the cultural and structural stereotypes around fatherhood and caregiving?
So settle down in whichever way works best for you, and enjoy Ian's insights and actionable advice on nurturing equality both at home and in the workplace, right here on "Speaking of Inclusion..."
Ian Dinwiddy can be found on LinkedIn and the Inspiring Dads website.
He also mentioned the books:
Equal Parent by Paul Morgan-Bentley
Dads Don't Baby Sit by James Miller
