The Megyn Kelly Show: In-Depth Summary of Episode 1035 with Jordan Peterson

Introduction to the Episode

In Episode 1035 of The Megyn Kelly Show, released on March 26, 2025, host Megyn Kelly welcomes renowned psychologist and intellectual Jordan B. Peterson. After nearly three years since his last appearance, Peterson returns to discuss pressing societal issues, including pathological masculinity, the alarming political gender gap among young voters, and cultural narratives portrayed in media such as Disney's Snow White.

1. Peterson Academy: Revolutionizing Education [03:16 - 05:07]

Megyn Kelly begins by highlighting Peterson's latest venture, Peterson Academy. She praises its innovative approach to education, especially for those who may not pursue traditional universities like Brown University.

Quote:

"The goal was to bring university education into the 21st century and more specifically, to find the best professors in the world and to bring them to everyone at the lowest possible price."
— Jordan B. Peterson [03:39]

Peterson explains that Peterson Academy aims to deliver top-tier academic content at a fraction of the cost of traditional institutions. He emphasizes the quality of lectures, stating, "all of ours are top 1%" compared to the "bulk" lectures at large universities.

2. Political Gender Gap and Democratic Initiatives [05:07 - 22:24]

Megyn introduces a central topic: the increasing focus of Democratic governors on initiatives aimed at helping boys and men. She references an NBC News article titled "The Plight of Boys and Men, Once Sidelined by Democrats, Is Now a Priority."

Quote:

"They need to spend more time at Peterson Academy."
— Megyn Kelly [07:32]

Peterson critiques these initiatives as too little, too late, arguing that decades of targeted demoralization of young men by progressive policies have created deep-rooted issues that mere DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) programs cannot address. He asserts, "the Democrats aren't interested in fixing it at all," pointing out their alignment with teachers' unions and educational faculties that propagate progressive ideologies.

3. Critique of the Educational System [14:05 - 33:26]

Peterson delves into his longstanding criticism of the modern educational system. He argues that universities have become administratively bloated and ideologically contaminated, moving away from merit-based selection towards progressive agendas.

Quote:

"The only faculty more corrupt than the faculties of education."
— Jordan B. Peterson [28:30]

He laments that progressive doctrines such as "whole word learning" and "self-esteem training" have diluted the quality of education, leading to a decline in academic rigor and the overall value of university degrees.

4. Pathological Masculinity and Its Societal Impact [33:26 - 57:28]

The conversation shifts to the concept of pathological masculinity and its effects on young men. Peterson argues that the current societal framework has weakened men by discouraging traditional masculine roles and responsibilities.

Quote:

"Men have to do both [protecting the vulnerable and being strong]."
— Jordan B. Peterson [84:27]

He contrasts this with the rise of figures like Andrew Tate, whom he views as exemplars of power worship without the accompanying responsibility, leading young men to destructive behaviors. Peterson emphasizes the importance of "sacrificial responsibility" as a means to provide meaning and stability in men's lives.

5. Personal Experiences: Megyn's Kids and Educational Challenges [17:32 - 29:30]

Megyn Kelly shares her personal experience of withdrawing her children from a prestigious New York City private school due to radical educational programs on gender identity.

Quote:

"We pulled them because they were being abused by these teachers."
— Megyn Kelly [17:32]

Peterson acknowledges the depth of this problem, noting that even high-end institutions are not immune to progressive indoctrination, reflecting widespread institutional decay.

6. The Role of Marriage and Responsibility [89:00 - 100:45]

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the institution of marriage and its role in providing stability and purpose. Peterson advocates for traditional, committed relationships, arguing that marriage offers meaningful responsibility essential for psychological well-being.

Quote:

"Patriarchal, oppressive institution... no, they're not oppressive."
— Jordan B. Peterson [89:00]

He contends that marriage is beneficial for both men and women, fostering a supportive environment conducive to raising children and contributing positively to society.

7. Olivia Wilde's Portrayal and Personal Attacks [65:15 - 84:28]

Peterson addresses personal attacks, particularly referencing Olivia Wilde’s portrayal of him in her movie Don't Worry Darling. He criticizes the film for misrepresenting his philosophy and intentions.

Quote:

"You don't get to tell young women to do it. You don't."
— Jordan B. Peterson [78:46]

Peterson defends his stance against what he views as mischaracterizations, emphasizing his commitment to guiding young men toward responsibility rather than promoting power.

8. Audience Engagement: Relationships and Self-Improvement [93:29 - 100:45]

Megyn introduces questions from the audience, particularly focusing on relationships and the balance between career ambitions and personal life. A young conservative woman asks whether she should "settle" for a partner she is not deeply invested in to safeguard her biological clock.

Quote:

"How do I make myself into the sort of person that's so attractive to other people, that potential mates are lining up for me?"
— Jordan B. Peterson [95:28]

Peterson responds by encouraging self-improvement and personal accountability, rather than settling for inadequate relationships. He stresses the importance of being a person of value to attract meaningful partnerships.

9. Conclusions and Final Thoughts [100:01 - End]

In wrapping up, Peterson reiterates his concerns about the ongoing societal shifts affecting both men and women. He emphasizes the necessity of responsible masculinity and traditional structures like marriage to foster a healthy, functioning society.

Quote:

"Everything has to balance properly."
— Jordan B. Peterson [86:34]

Megyn Kelly thanks Peterson for his insights, acknowledging the depth and complexity of the issues discussed.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Peterson on Peterson Academy:
  "All of ours are top 1%. And so you can learn a tremendous amount." [03:39]

• Critique of Democratic Initiatives:
  "They're certainly not going to get more men in the teaching system." [08:05]

• Educational System Degradation:
  "K through 12 education eats up 50% of the state's budgets." [28:30]

• Pathological Masculinity:
  "Being mentally healthy is a matter of arranging the hierarchy around you." [89:00]

• Personal Attacks:
  "You don't get to tell young women to do it. You don't." [78:46]

Conclusion

Episode 1035 of The Megyn Kelly Show offers a comprehensive exploration of the crisis facing modern masculinity, the failing educational systems, and the evolving political landscape's impact on young men and women. Through a candid and critical dialogue, Jordan Peterson provides his perspective on how societal structures have contributed to the current challenges and proposes a return to traditional roles and responsibilities as a path forward.