The Art of Manliness

In this engaging discussion, therapist Russ Harris, author of The Happiness Trap, challenges the conventional pursuit of happiness. He argues that chasing feelings leads to more distress, advocating instead for a values-driven approach to happiness. Russ highlights how strategies like distraction worsen our mental health and introduces Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). By accepting and unhooking from difficult emotions, individuals can focus on meaningful actions. He also shares practical exercises to help listeners label thoughts and embrace their feelings.

Join Joel Miller, a former publishing executive and author of The Idea Machine, as he explores the transformative power of books throughout history. Discover how the design of books influences thought and culture, from Augustine's insights on marking texts to the reading innovations introduced by medieval monks. Miller reveals the pivotal role of the printing press in the Reformation and contrasts the flexibility of books with the limitations of modern media. He argues that even in today's tech age, books remain essential for deep thinking and connection.

Join behavioral psychologist Amantha Imber, author of The Health Habit, as she dives into the psychology behind following through on health goals. She reveals four 'habit hijackers' that keep us from success and shares ingenious strategies like temptation bundling and the importance of public pledges for accountability. Learn about the surprising benefits of after-dinner walks, realistic step goals, and how sleep restriction therapy can improve your rest. Transform your health habits by starting small and making environmental changes!

Elliot Ackerman, a decorated Marine and former CIA officer turned novelist, dives deep into the essence of masculinity and confident competence. He explores why many young men struggle today and emphasizes how intentional skills can reshape one's presence and purpose. From practical advice on wearing a watch to giving a heartfelt eulogy, Elliot highlights the importance of small, everyday skills. He also discusses the value of empathy gained from intelligence work and the role of discipline in writing, ultimately connecting competence to meaningful relationships and growth.

In this discussion, Charles McPherson, a veteran butler and founder of North America's only registered butler school, shares his expert insights on household management. He traces the history of domestic service and explains its modern resurgence. Learn why maintaining a 'butler's book' can simplify home upkeep, discover essential cleaning tips, and hear surprising recommendations, like keeping your bedsheets fresh and optimizing shower care. Charles also highlights 'little luxuries' that can elevate everyday life.

Susan Dominus, a journalist and author of The Family Dynamic, engages in a compelling discussion about how family culture and sibling dynamics shape success. She reveals how parents set the tone, but siblings drive competition and ambition. Dominus highlights fascinating concepts like the 'replacement child effect' and the influence of birth order on achievement. The conversation probes into how these factors evolve over time and offer strategies for nurturing dreams without pressure. It's an insightful look into what truly motivates high achievers.

In a captivating discussion, journalist Susan Dominus, author of The Family Dynamic, delves into the profound influence of siblings on our lives. She argues that siblings can shape our paths as powerfully as parents do, exploring themes like birth order, sibling rivalry, and how families like the Kennedys foster ambition through competition. Susan also highlights the significance of environmental factors and how sibling relationships evolve throughout adulthood, all while reassuring parents of their limited control over outcomes.

Dr. Paul Taylor, a psychophysiologist and author of The Hardiness Effect, explores the ancient choice of Hercules as a modern metaphor for personal growth. He discusses how today's comfort-driven lifestyles make us mentally and physically fragile. Taylor outlines the traits of psychologically hardy individuals and shares that embracing stress can boost resilience. He emphasizes the importance of social connections and offers practical strategies to train the body and mind for optimal health, ultimately urging listeners to engage fully in life.

Joanna Ebenstein, founder of Morbid Anatomy and author of 'Memento Mori,' explores how our detachment from death affects our lives. She discusses the shift from intimate cultural practices to hospital-centered mourning, highlighting the psychological costs of avoiding mortality. Joanna shares rituals that embrace death, the significance of memento mori art, and the benefits of contemplating mortality. She emphasizes the value of personal transformation through death acceptance, reinforcing how understanding death can enhance our appreciation for life.

In this insightful discussion, Mark Cirino, a professor of American literature and Melville expert, dives deep into Moby-Dick. He explores why this monumental work was initially overlooked and unpacks its major themes, including free will, obsession, and the complexities of perception. Cirino highlights Captain Ahab's charismatic yet destructive leadership, dissecting the cost of vengeance and the haunting symbolism of the white whale. This conversation invites listeners to reconsider Melville's masterpiece with fresh eyes, revealing its timeless relevance.