The tendency to hedge is a modern disease. This rich discussion re-inspired me to go all-in with my life.
Daniel Thorson is dedicated to monastic practices and lives at The Monastic Academy in Vermont — a wisdom institution that trains trustworthy people. At the start of the 2020 pandemic, he became an overnight focus of media attention after he emerged from a silent retreat and tweeted, “I’m back from 75 days in silence. Did I miss anything?” His unique experience was featured by The New York Times. He’s also the host of The Emerge Podcast.
This is a conversation about sacrifice, wisdom, dedication, and practice.
Topics include:
* Why the most important thing everyone can do right now is come to terms with death.
* What it takes to create a trustworthy person.
* The MAPLE practice model of Wisdom, Love and Power.
* Why pure mindfulness practice might lead to “equanimity induced apathy.”
* How to change your friendships for life in 30 seconds (a practical exercise).
* The critical need for a vibrant network of wisdom institutions.
* Why you should be getting emotionally triggered regularly (and what to when it happens).
* Where “masculinity” might fit in with wisdom institutions.
* The uncomfortable importance of Hierarchy.
* Why we need new archetypes to inspire transformation. Philosopher kings and warriors instead of quiet monks.
* The significance of going all-in. Stop hedging. Fuck optionality.
Resources:
* Daniel Thorson’s Twitter. Reach out to him if you’re interested in The Monastic Academy.
* The Monastic Academy (aka MAPLE) in Vermont.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
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