Are We Failing Young Men?
In this episode of Begin Again, David Gandy opens up about masculinity, mentorship, and the reality behind becoming the world’s highest-paid male model. From feeling like he didn’t fit the mould to building one of the most iconic careers in fashion, David reflects on insecurity, identity, and what young men really need in a world that often sends them the wrong message.
But this conversation goes far beyond modelling. David speaks candidly about shyness, insecurity, self-criticism, and the strange contradiction of becoming one of the most photographed men in the world while still hating having his picture taken. He shares how those early feelings shaped him, how he learned to channel them, and why confidence is often far more complicated than it looks from the outside.
The episode also explores masculinity, mentorship, and why so many young men are struggling to find their place. David reflects on the role models that shaped him, the importance of guidance, and why he believes we need a more positive conversation around masculinity, respect, and responsibility. Rather than blaming or dividing, he argues for better examples, stronger values, and more honest conversations about what young men actually need.
At its core, this is a conversation about identity, resilience, and what it means to stay in control of your life and career in a world that is always trying to define you.
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(00:00) Intro
(01:09) The Modelling Industry in the Early 2000s
(02:55) A Message From David’s Agent and Mentor
(09:38) David on Defying Expectations and Landing Dolce & Gabbana (13:51) David’s New Partnerships With M&S and Jaeger Menswear
(18:40) David on His Parents and Upbringing
(23:06) Balancing Relationships and Career
(26:37) Saily Ad
(27:33) Shopify Ad
(28:34) Overcoming Shyness and Insecurities
(34:38) How Modelling Shaped David Long-Term
(37:01) Changing Body Standards in Modelling
(39:04) David on His Daughters and Modern Parenting
(42:27) David on His Relationship With His Dad
(44:51) Supporting Young Men and Addressing Male Suicide
(48:15) Toxic Masculinity and the Demonisation of Young Men
(50:43) What’s Happening With the Manosphere?
(53:08) The Need for Positive Role Models for Young Men
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