46. 50 Years of Taboo Topics: From Sex Therapy to Men's Rights

Bettina Arndt has spent over 50 years in the media as a pioneering sex therapist and later as a vocal social commentator.

Join Amy as she explores Bettina's extensive career, starting in the 1970s as one of Australia's first sex therapists. They discuss the significant societal changes she has witnessed over the decades and her motivations for addressing topics many consider taboo or controversial.

Bettina shares insights into the evolution of sex therapy, the importance of including men's perspectives in relationship discourse, and the ongoing challenges of gender issues. She reflects on her evolving views on feminism, her experiences with early career criticism, and the lessons she hopes to impart to younger generations.

We were keen to speak with Bettina to understand what drives someone to consistently engage with taboo topics, despite facing media scrutiny and public backlash, and to explore the resilience required to sustain such a challenging career path over decades.

Topics discussed include:

Bettina’s early inspiration from sex researchers Masters and Johnson and her role in pioneering sex therapy in Australia.
Societal challenges and backlash she faced while promoting open discussions on sex and relationships.
The shift in her career focus from sex therapy to addressing broader societal issues, especially advocating for men's rights amidst modern feminism.
How she has navigated public scrutiny and controversy.
Her reflections on the changing landscape of gender discourse, the importance of fair treatment, and her vision for future societal changes concerning gender equity.

This episode is perfect for anyone interested in the evolution of social attitudes towards gender, the dynamics of taboo topics, and the challenges of advocating for change in a shifting societal landscape.

Discover more about Bettina Arndt: https://www.bettinaarndt.com.au/