#214

Mentioned in 67 episodes

The Second Mountain

The Quest for a Moral Life

Book • 2019

In 'The Second Mountain', David Brooks explores the concept of two mountains in life: the first mountain, which represents individual success and ego-driven achievements, and the second mountain, which symbolizes a life of deeper meaning, commitment, and contribution to a greater good.

Brooks argues that our society's extreme individualism has torn the social fabric, and the path to repair is through making deeper commitments to a spouse and family, a vocation, a philosophy or faith, and a community.

The book is both a personal reflection on Brooks' own life journey and a broader social commentary, offering practical advice and stories of people who have lived joyous, committed lives.

Mentioned by

Adam Lane Smith

Aryeh B. Bourkoff

Mentioned in 67 episodes

Mentioned by

Cal Newport

in the context of transitioning from 'first mountain' to 'second mountain' values in life.

Ep. 338: Why You’re Always Distracted

Mentioned by

Cal Newport

in a discussion about the challenges of integrating values into daily life.

Ep. 336: On Screens and Solitude

Mentioned by

Adam Lane Smith

in the context of a coaching client reaching the second mountain state.

#971 - Adam Lane Smith - 13 Semi-Controversial Truths About Masculinity

Mentioned by

Scott Galloway

as the author of several books, including "The Second Mountain", "The Road to Character", "The Social Animal", "Bobos in Paradise", and "On Paradise Drive".

What Happened to American Conservatism? — with David Brooks

Recommended by

Cal Newport

as a book discussing the second half of life and finding meaning.

Ep. 268: Stoicism and the Deep Life

Mentioned by

Hugh Jackman

and his wife as the book they are currently reading aloud to each other.

#577: Hugh Jackman on Best Decisions, Daily Routines, The 85% Rule, Favorite Exercises, Mind Training, and Much More (Repost)

Mentioned by

Mike Schmitz

as a book that he really enjoyed, mistaking the author for Arthur Brooks.

227: Lean Learning by Pat Flynn

Mentioned by

Ali Abdaal

to illustrate the concept of climbing the first and second mountains in life.

The Productivity Expert: How to Make 2024 Your Most Productive & ABUNDANT Year Yet | Ali Abdaal

Mentioned by

Ali Abdaal

in relation to the concept of "first and second mountains" in life.

Why You've Not Met Your Person - Matthew Hussey

Mentioned by

Brian Johnson

when discussing eulogy virtues and the second mountain.

How to Train Your Mind: Ancient Wisdom, Modern Science, and the Mindset of Excellence | Brian Johnson

Mentioned by

Mark Manson

as someone he had on his podcast to discuss the nuclear family and societal expectations.

The Stoic Secrets to a Good Life (ft. Ryan Holiday)

Mentioned by

Aryeh B. Bourkoff

as a book about personal development and finding purpose in life's second half.

#629: Aryeh Bourkoff — Media's Hottest Dealmaker on How to Negotiate, Rejecting Constraints, Mastering the Calendar to Create More Time, and How to Play the Long Game

Mentioned by

Ali Abdaal

as a book about finding purpose and service after achieving personal success.

From Council Estate To Selling A Global Business For Millions At 27 - Timothy Armoo Founder of Fanbytes

Mentioned by

Rich Wong

as a book about the different phases of life and their objectives.

Rich Wong - The Art of Accel-ing - [Joys of Compounding, EP.22]

Mentioned by

Mike Schmitz

, who initially confused Arthur Brooks with this author, adding that this book is one of his favorites.

229: From Strength to Strength by Arthur Brooks

Mentioned by

Sahil Bloom

in comparison to the halftime concept, highlighting the transition from one phase of life to another.

106: The Five Types of Wealth: A Conversation with Sahil Bloom

Mentioned by

Sam Harris

as one of

David Brooks

's books.

#334 — The Low-Trust Society

Mentioned by

Mike Schmitz

in relation to the concept of "second mountain", focusing on helping others.

201: Right Thing, Right Now by Ryan Holiday

Mentioned by

Chip Conley

in relation to the concept of a second mountain in life.

Chip Conley on Finding Contentment and Embracing Our Achievements

Mentioned by

Mike Schmitz

in relation to the concept of finding a purpose beyond personal goals.

132: So Good They Can’t Ignore You by Cal Newport

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