In this engaging discussion, Matt Bernstein, a cultural analyst and host of "A Bit Fruity," dives into the viral morning routine of Ashton Hall and its implications on modern masculinity. They explore the evolution of male wellness culture, critiquing the absurd standards set by influencers and the rise of hyper-masculinity. Bernstein emphasizes the disconnect between aesthetics and true well-being, calling for a reassessment of societal expectations. Together, they unpack the complex dynamics of masculinity, highlighting the necessity for community and authenticity.
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insights INSIGHT
Modern Masculinity and Ashton Hall
Ashton Hall's viral morning routine video highlights the evolution of masculinity in the digital age.
The video showcases extreme self-care and discipline as a form of performative masculinity.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Ashton Hall and Patrick Bateman
Matt Bernstein likened Ashton Hall's morning routine video to Patrick Bateman's in American Psycho.
Both routines are exaggerated and disturbing, reflecting a performative aspect of masculinity.
insights INSIGHT
Performance for Male Validation
The performance of masculinity in videos like Ashton Hall's is primarily for other men, not women.
This performative masculinity often involves displays of discipline and physical prowess.
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Published in 1937, 'Think and Grow Rich' is a seminal work in the self-help genre. The book is the result of over twenty years of research by Napoleon Hill, who studied the habits and achievements of more than 500 successful individuals, including Andrew Carnegie, Thomas Edison, and Henry Ford. Hill distills their wisdom into thirteen principles that, when practiced with persistence and faith, can transform dreams into reality. These principles include the power of desire, faith, specialized knowledge, organized planning, and the role of the subconscious mind. The book emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive mental attitude, setting clear and specific goals, and taking consistent action to achieve success. It also explores the concept of the 'Master Mind' alliance and the need to overcome fears and doubts to achieve one's objectives.
American Psycho
Bret Easton Ellis
American Psycho is a black comedy horror novel that critiques the superficiality and materialism of 1980s Wall Street culture through the character of Patrick Bateman, a charismatic but sociopathic investment banker. The novel explores themes of identity, consumerism, and the blurring of reality and fantasy. It is known for its graphic violence and dark humor, offering a commentary on the excesses of capitalist society.
How to Win Friends and Influence People
Dale Carnegie
First published in 1936, 'How to Win Friends and Influence People' by Dale Carnegie is a timeless guide to improving interpersonal skills. The book is divided into four main sections: Six Ways to Make People Like You, Twelve Ways to Win People to Your Way of Thinking, and Nine Ways to Change People Without Giving Offense or Arousing Resentment. Carnegie's principles emphasize the importance of genuine interest in others, active listening, and avoiding criticism and argument. The book offers practical advice on how to build strong relationships, communicate effectively, and influence others by aligning their self-interest with yours. It has been a cornerstone of personal development and business success for generations[2][3][5].
Extremely Online
The Untold Story of Fame, Influence, and Power on the Internet
Taylor Lorenz
In 'Extremely Online,' Taylor Lorenz provides a comprehensive and deeply reported chronicle of the internet's impact on modern society. The book explores how social platforms' power users have radically altered our expectations of content, connection, purchasing, and power. Lorenz documents the rise of influencers, from 'mommy bloggers' who first monetized their personal brands to teens who reinvented fame through selfie videos and young creators on TikTok who are leveraging new opportunities. The book highlights the disruptive changes in modern capitalism, creating new sectors of the economy and empowering previously marginalized groups, while also discussing the darker aspects of this digital revolution, such as exploitation and disinformation.
Ever since Ashton Hall's morning routine went viral last week, I've been dying to chat about it with my friend Matt Bernstein of the podcast A Bit Fruity to about it all.
We joined up to break down the history and evolution of modern masculinity, the allure and absurdity of the modern "alpha male" archetype, the rise of isolationist masculinity and exactly how things ended up this way, and what videos like Ashton Hall's can tell us about the future of masculinity.
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