In education, particularly in early years settings, male educators often face gender stereotypes that impact their professional and emotional wellbeing. These expectations not only shape how male teachers are perceived but also affect their ability to express their authentic selves, nurture students, and create truly inclusive learning environments. This article and podcast episode explore the emotional toll that gender stereotypes impose on male educators and highlights the need for greater representation across early years provision, including elements such as same-sex relationships, neurodiversity, cultural differences, skin colour and the visible inclusion of male role models. Read Simon’s article here: https://thevoiceofearlychildhood.com/the-emotional-toll-of-gender-stereotypes-on-male-educators Listen to more: If you enjoyed this episode, you might also like: What is it like being a man in early childhood – Kevin Nelson – https://thevoiceofearlychildhood.com/what-is-it-like-being-a-man-in-early-childhood/ Men in early childhood home page: https://thevoiceofearlychildhood.com/articles/men-in-early-childhood/ Support for men:  To support men in early childhood further, we have partnered with Male Childcare & Teaching Jobs as part of this episode and ongoing podcast series on 'men in early childhood'. Male Childcare and Teaching Jobs advocate for greater male participation in education and caregiving roles, offering support and guidance to enhance gender inclusion in nurseries and schools.  To find out more visit:  https://malechildcareandteachingjobs.co.uk/  Episode break down: 00:00 – The men in early childhood series introduction 02:00 – Simon’s journey into early years 04:30 – The impact of our experiences on young children 06:45 – The lived experience of a male, neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+ educator 08:00 – The lack of male educators in early years 10:00 – Gender roles and stereotypes in society 14:00 – Toxic masculinity and its impact on children 20:10 – Tackling gender stereotypes through role play 24:45 – The only male in the whole school 28:00 – Staying resilient in the early years sector 31:10 – The toll on mental health 33:36 – External networks, mentoring and coaching For more episodes and articles visit The Voice of Early Childhood website: https://www.thevoiceofearlychildhood.com