In anticipation of the debut of MENtality with Ebuka, a podcast dedicated to exploring nuanced discussions about men and masculinity, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu appears on the cover of ThisDay Style. He reflects on his personal growth since his Big Brother Naija appearance in 2006, the transformations he has experienced over the years, and the inspiration behind launching this new platform.
Ebuka explains that the motivation for MENtality with Ebuka stems from the current landscape of male-focused conversations online, which often lean heavily on conservative viewpoints about manhood. “There’s a dominant narrative on podcasts and social media that defines what a man should be, mostly from a right-wing perspective. I’ve always felt there’s room for a fresh, alternative dialogue. Not every man aligns with those views, and I noticed a lack of such discussions in our region-whether from the right, left, or anywhere in between. People have opinions, but genuine conversations are rare. That gap inspired me to create MENtality with Ebuka. I also observed how young people are shaped by online debates and gaming culture, which made me realize the importance of honest, open talks. Men are often told they don’t communicate enough, so this podcast is about uncovering real thoughts, identifying what needs to evolve, and supporting men in becoming their authentic selves rather than conforming to imposed ideals.”
Ebuka’s vision for this initiative is to encourage men, and people in general, to engage in meaningful dialogue. When asked about the impact he hopes the podcast will have, he shares, “My primary goal is to spark conversations. I’m not aiming for a specific reaction or to persuade anyone. I want people to listen, reflect, and then talk. Maybe they’ll think, ‘I hadn’t considered it from that angle before.’ The idea is to open minds and foster more communication. Reach out to your friends, partners, siblings, or mentors and say, ‘Did you catch this episode? What’s your take? Did you experience something similar?’ Starting these exchanges is what matters most to me. I’m not here to change minds or convert anyone; I just want dialogue to happen.”
Launching soon, MENtality with Ebuka promises to feature a diverse array of voices-from celebrities and intellectuals to everyday men-who will share candid stories, vulnerabilities, and insights that are often overlooked in conversations about masculinity. Through each episode, Ebuka aims to ignite thoughtful reflection and foster open discussions about identity, manhood, and the shifting dynamics of being a man in today’s world.
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