It’s International Women’s Day. My second as the father of a daughter (the first one was a bit of a blur). And this year I’m angry, I’m sad and I’m scared. I think a lot about what her life will be like, and what kind of world she’ll grow up in. I’ve changed a lot over the past few years. Part of that is the result of making conscious choices to lay some old demons to rest, but another big part is that I’m less intimidated by the idea of having conversations where I’m uncomfortable or proven wrong. Chatting to @katiehall5653 @emmacrome and @orlaomuiri has really altered my perspective, and my work at @theadventurepodcast , particularly conversations with @emilyofchappell @hazel_findlay and @wheelsandwords have made me realise not just how seriously different life is for women, but also how some of my own behaviour is, frankly, sexist. But speaking openly with these women is empowering (if both parties approach the conversation from a place of kindness). I don’t feel guilty for the way I am or the person I used to be (and in some ways still am - I’m working on it). I feel as though we’re culturally and societally trained to think, speak and act in ways that are patriarchal and chauvinistic. It’s up to us to be brave enough and aware enough to alter our behaviour for the benefit of others. Continued in the comments.