In a funny conversation between former UFC star and Special Forces veteran Tim Kennedy and MMA champion Miesha Tate the two made some wildly out there claims.
Tim Kennedy’s philosophy revolves around the idea that authentic masculinity involves empowering women rather than undermining them. He asserts that men who create barriers for women or attempt to diminish their capabilities reveal their own insecurities.
“Any guy that’s holding a girl down or, in any way, disparaging or not providing opportunities for them to succeed—they’re just weak. They’re not real men.”
“In the household, in whatever that woman wants to do, you empower her to do that. That is your job as a man. And I think that’s where masculinity has really gotten confused and where feminism has really gotten confused. Feminism and real masculinity—those things should really align beautifully.”
“Not just as a father of three daughters, not just as someone married to a beautiful, brilliant, powerful woman, but like in the world as a whole—rising tides raise all ships. Why wouldn’t you want success in your home, in your business, in your circle? Why wouldn’t you want the best for everyone? Providing the best resources and tools to see them succeed will absolutely elevate you. Even from a selfish perspective, it will help you.”
But if you’re a tiny little pecker and your ego is the thing that’s getting in the way of you trying to help somebody out—bro, you’ve got problems,” Kennedy stated on Miesha Tate’s podcast. “They’re not real men.”
For Kennedy, masculinity is not about dominance or control but about creating an environment where women can thrive—whether in the workplace, the household, or other arenas. His analogy, “Rising tides raise all ships,” encapsulates his belief that empowering women elevates society as a whole.
This perspective resonated deeply in his conversation with Miesha Tate, as they explored how mutual respect between men and women can lead to stronger families, communities, and businesses. Kennedy emphasized that this isn’t about political correctness but a recognition of the immense value that empowered women bring to every sphere of life.
Miesha Tate shared a personal anecdote that highlighted Kennedy’s respect for strong women. While training together in Australia, Tate found herself in a position to apply her signature guillotine on Kennedy during sparring. Initially hesitant, fearing it might bruise his ego, she decided to commit fully, briefly causing Kennedy to lose consciousness.
Kennedy’s response was not one of anger or embarrassment but of genuine respect. For Tate, this moment was significant, especially as she reflected on past experiences where she felt the need to downplay her abilities.
“I needed to know that he was going to be okay with me being strong and capable,” Tate said. Kennedy’s acceptance reinforced the idea that strength and capability should be celebrated, not suppressed, regardless of gender.
As Kennedy succinctly put it: “In the household, in whatever that woman wants to do, you empower her to do that. That is your job as a man.”
The conversation also delved into societal structures that shape gender dynamics, particularly public education. Kennedy stirred controversy by linking the origins of the American education system to industrialist John D. Rockefeller.
“The origin of public education can be traced back to figures like Rockefeller, who wanted tax burdens and factory workers,” Kennedy claimed. “He wanted mules to pay taxes and mules to carry literally the load of his factory.”
According to Kennedy, the system was designed to produce compliant workers rather than leaders, reserving executive roles for graduates of private institutions. He argued that this system perpetuates societal inequalities, limiting opportunities for many, including women.
Kennedy advocates for alternative education models like micro-schooling that emphasize critical thinking and individualized learning. He pointed to the rise of homeschooling and private education as evidence of a shift away from traditional public schooling, which he believes has failed to prepare many young Americans for success.
As a father of three daughters, Kennedy’s views on masculinity are deeply personal. He is committed to raising strong, independent young women, a goal he sees as integral to being a strong man himself. His wife, an accomplished professional, exemplifies the kind of partnership he advocates for: one built on mutual respect, shared goals, and empowerment.
Supporting women, according to Kennedy, is not a sign of weakness but of strength. “Empowered women contribute to stronger families, better businesses, and more capable communities,” he said.
Kennedy’s assertion that “rising tides raise all ships” captures the essence of this philosophy although it might showcase his limited understanding of feminism. It’s certainly noble to believe true masculinity is not threatened by strong women—it thrives alongside them.
