A Deep Dive into Masculinity, Politics, and Society with Ross Morales Rocketto

A Deep Dive into Masculinity, Politics, and Society with Ross Morales Rocketto, Ep 353, May 16, 2025

Reimagining Masculinity: A Conversation with Ross Morales Rocketto

Summary
In this episode of 'Real Men Feel', host Andy Grant engages in a profound conversation with Ross Morales Rocketto, the co-founder of 'Run For Something' and lead organizer for 'White Dudes for Harris'. Ross delves into his journey into political activism, the origins of his interest in politics, and his realization of the profound crisis men face today. He discusses the importance of addressing men's issues, the implications of weaponizing masculinity in politics, and the necessity for men to reclaim their identities in a healthy, supportive environment. 

Ross emphasizes the need for authentic political organizing, overcoming societal and economic changes, and fostering genuine relationships and community spaces for men. This episode thoughtfully explores the intersection between masculinity, politics, and societal expectations.

The Vision for a Different Society
Ross Morales Rocketto opens the conversation by sharing his vision of a world where men feel free to be their genuine selves without fear or shame. He believes that achieving even a semblance of this vision could fundamentally transform our society. The concept underscores the need for a supportive environment where men can express their vulnerabilities and strengths without societal constraints.

Political Activism and Organizing
Ross discusses his political roots, tracing back to Sunday mornings spent watching "Meet the Press" with his family. His early exposure to political discourse and practical experiences in organizing campaigns catalyzed his activism. Despite having considered running for office, Ross's understanding of the complexities involved has steered him towards organizing and supporting candidates who share his vision for societal change.

Understanding the Why
An essential aspect of Ross's work is understanding the motivations behind political candidacies. He emphasizes the importance of candidates having a clear and authentic "why" for running. This understanding not only galvanizes support but also helps maintain authenticity in campaigns. His initiative, "White Dudes for Harris," aimed to organize white men specifically, emphasizing self-awareness and specificity in political organizing.

Reclaiming Masculinity from MAGA
One of the critical discussions in the podcast is the notion of reclaiming masculinity from the MAGA narrative. Ross believes that the right has effectively weaponized certain forms of masculinity, capitalizing on fear and resentment. To counteract this, he advocates for a holistic reevaluation of how society interacts with men, urging for deeper engagement and understanding rather than political rhetoric.

Personal Journey and Reflection
Ross reflects on his upbringing and the diverse influences that shaped his understanding of masculinity. His personal exploration has been significantly influenced by experiences such as the tragic loss of a childhood friend, which highlighted the dire consequences of societal neglect towards men's mental health and wellbeing. He reiterates that the responsibility to address these issues lies with men themselves, not as a burden for women or others to shoulder.

The Importance of Community and Belonging
To foster a healthier society, Ross argues for the creation of spaces where men can connect and collaborate, thereby reducing isolation and fostering a sense of belonging. He cites traditional institutions like Elks clubs as examples of past communal structures that provided such support. Today, innovative approaches are needed to replicate this communal spirit in a way that resonates with modern times.

Hope and Moving Forward
Despite recognizing the current challenges as daunting, Ross remains hopeful about the future. He stresses the need for rebuilding institutions that offer support and connection, tailored to today's societal needs rather than relying on outdated models. By doing so, we can engender hope and provide a pathway for a more inclusive and understanding society.

Final Thoughts
Ross Morales Rocketto's call to action is clear: transforming the narrative around masculinity requires collective effort, introspection, and a commitment to building supportive communities. His insights offer a roadmap for how society can navigate these challenging dynamics, ultimately aiming to create an environment where men, and everyone, can thrive authentically.

For more insights from this engaging conversation, listen to the full episode of "Real Men Feel" and connect with Ross on social media. Engage in the broader discussion and join the movement towards a more inclusive understanding of masculinity.

Connect with Real Men Feel
Share the podcast, leave a review, and reach out at RealMenFeel@gmail.com. Until next time, be good to yourself.

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Connect with Ross
Instagram -- https://www.instagram.com/rrocketto
LinkedIn -- https://www.linkedin.com/in/rocketto/