The Art of Manliness

Join Matt Smith, co-author of 'The Preparation', as he discusses a transformative curriculum designed for young men seeking alternatives to traditional college. Matt reveals the challenges young men face today, including rising tuition and uncertain job prospects. He outlines hands-on cycles like earning EMT certification and building houses that foster real-world skills and character development. This adventure-driven approach aims to cultivate self-reliance and confidence, empowering young men to navigate life's uncertainties with competence.

Susanna Sullivan, a neurologist and author of The Age of Diagnosis, dives into the downsides of overdiagnosis in modern medicine. She discusses how our obsession with medical testing can lead to increased anxiety and unnecessary treatments. The conversation covers the complexities of conditions like cancer, diabetes, and Lyme disease, stressing that not every medical label is helpful. Sullivan advocates for informed decision-making and a more personalized approach to healthcare, emphasizing the psychological toll of being unnecessarily diagnosed.

Sam Parker, a journalist and author of "Good Anger," challenges the conventional view of anger as purely negative. He discusses how anger, often mistaken for aggression, can reveal unmet needs and boundaries. Parker reveals the mental health risks of suppressing anger and links it to anxiety and depression. He explores anger's potential as a powerful motivator in personal growth and creativity, emphasizing its importance in workplace dynamics and relationships. This fresh perspective encourages us to embrace anger as a constructive force.

Bryan Burrough, author of 'The Gunfighters: How Texas Made the West Wild,' dives into the gritty realities of American gunfighters, challenging Hollywood's romanticized portrayals. He reveals how gunfighting culture stemmed from Southern dueling traditions and was shaped by post-Civil War violence. Discussions highlight the honor code that defined these figures and the transformative impact of the Colt revolver on violence and masculinity. Burrough also shares insights on how gunfighters evolved from real men to iconic pop culture legends.

Join Jay Heinrichs, an expert in classical rhetoric and author of 'Aristotle's Guide to Self-Persuasion,' as he unveils the secrets of using ancient techniques to transform your life. Discover how to identify your 'soul' as your inner audience and leverage chaos into opportunity with the concept of kairos. Learn about setting ambitious 'moonshot' goals that inspire action, and how incorporating ethos, pathos, and logos can help you achieve your aspirations. Jay shares his incredible journey of resilience and personal growth, proving the power of self-persuasion.

In this insightful discussion, Nell Wulfhart, a professional decision coach, shares her expertise in helping clients make big choices swiftly. She delves into the paralyzing effects of decision-making and the common psychological barriers like fear of regret. Nell introduces practical exercises that clarify personal values and streamline choices, emphasizing actionable over contemplative thinking. She also tackles the sunk cost fallacy and the need to accept regret as part of the process, empowering listeners to embrace decisiveness.

James Rebanks, an author and shepherd from the Lake District, shares insights from his life rooted in ancient traditions. He discusses the deep connection between shepherding, community, and purpose in today’s fast-paced world. Rebanks highlights the joys of repetitive life in nature versus modern routines and emphasizes the importance of legacy and sustainability in farming. He also advocates for returning to meaningful traditions that nurture relationships and encourage mindfulness, drawing contrasts between chaos and the simplicity of natural living.

Amanda Ripley, author of The Unthinkable, shares insights from her extensive research on human responses to crises. She reveals that passivity, rather than panic, often poses the greatest threat during emergencies. Amanda discusses the critical role of preparedness and informed decision-making, the surprising calm observed in the World Trade Center on 9/11, and how personal experiences affect risk assessment. Her practical tips on improving survival instincts highlight the complex psychology behind our reactions in life-threatening situations.

Join Nick Maggiulli, creator of the Of Dollars And Data blog and COO at Ritholtz Wealth Management, as he unpacks his Wealth Ladder concept. Discover six wealth levels that simplify personal finance, from escaping financial instability to achieving travel freedom. Nick emphasizes adapting your spending based on net worth and highlights the importance of increasing earning potential over merely saving. He also discusses strategic investments and the significance of self-awareness in wealth mobility—insights that are useful whether you're just starting or already on your financial journey.

Brett Finlay, a microbiologist and professor at the University of British Columbia, dives into the fascinating world of the microbiome. He explains how our 100 trillion bacteria significantly influence health, weight, and mood. Modern hygiene practices and processed foods disturb these vital ecosystems, linking them to chronic diseases and even mental health issues. Brett shares tips on nurturing your microbiome through diet, the surprising benefits of flossing, and why some pet interactions might actually be good for you!