The Art of Manliness

Join John Bowe, author of "I Have Something to Say," as he shares his journey through the transformative world of Toastmasters. Discover how his recluse cousin's unexpected growth parallels Bowe's own evolution in public speaking. They delve into the timeless principles of Aristotle's rhetoric, exploring how authenticity can hinder self-expression. Bowe reveals techniques from Toastmasters that can enhance your communication skills, emphasizing the power of ethos in persuasion and the significance of meaningful interactions in today's society.

In this discussion, Kevin Dutton, a researcher at Oxford and author of 'The Wisdom of Psychopaths,' challenges the conventional view of psychopathy. He reveals how certain psychopathic traits can be advantageous in various careers and explores the surprising idea that the Apostle Paul may have exhibited these traits, contributing to his success as an evangelist. The conversation dives into the distinctions between psychopaths and sociopaths, societal influences on these traits, and even includes a self-assessment test for listeners.

Stuart Farrimond, a medical doctor turned science educator and author of "Live Your Best Life," shares fascinating insights into enhancing daily routines. He discusses why waking up to an alarm can ruin your morning, the pitfalls of caffeine consumption, and the ideal timing for a refreshing nap. Stuart also delves into the mental toll of commuting and offers tips for a healthier commute. Plus, get the scoop on the best exercise times and the surprising science behind effective dental hygiene!

In this engaging discussion, Bob Bowman, the legendary Olympic swimming coach behind Michael Phelps, shares his transformative coaching methodology. He emphasizes the importance of having a 'dream big vision' and an all-in attitude for success. Listeners learn about the critical role of daily routines and the joy found in repetitive practice. Bob also underscores the need to cultivate passions outside one's main pursuit and reflects on redefining purpose in life beyond accolades, making the insights applicable across various aspects of personal and professional growth.

Dr. John Barry, a psychologist and co-founder of the Male Psychology Section of the British Psychological Society, dives into the misconceptions surrounding masculinity and mental health. He critiques the American Psychological Association’s guidelines, arguing they misrepresent masculinity as merely a social construct. The conversation highlights the origins of toxic masculinity and emphasizes the importance of positive male role models. Barry also discusses effective mental health strategies for men, including the value of informal support networks over traditional therapy.

Kelly Starrett, a doctor of physical therapy and co-author of Built to Move, shares insights from his experiences training elite athletes. He discusses essential habits for maintaining health as we age, revealing the importance of mobility and daily movement. Starrett highlights key practices, including the 'sit and rise test' for assessing mobility, breathing techniques to enhance performance, and specific exercises like the couch stretch to improve hip health. His focus is on integrating these habits into daily life for lasting vitality and well-being.

Kate Sweeny, a psychology professor known for her work on the mental impact of waiting, dives into the psychological toll that uncertainty takes on us. She discusses why waiting can be particularly stressful and identifies the types of people who tend to experience heightened anxiety. Kate shares practical strategies to cope, like embracing pessimism and finding flow through engaging activities. Additionally, she sheds light on the dynamic nature of social support, offering insights on how to better support those in limbo.

In this engaging conversation, outdoor educator Dave Hall shares his expertise from his book, "The Naturalist's Companion." He offers tips on observing wildlife ethically, emphasizing patience and self-awareness. Discover the 'fox walk' technique for a stealthy approach and learn about the ideal times and places to encounter animals—even in urban settings. Dave introduces 'spontaneous acceptance,' a mindset for enjoying nature, along with the concept of 'wide angle vision' to enhance your animal-spotting skills. Get ready to embrace the wild!

Dan Lyons, author of "STFU: The Power of Keeping Your Mouth Shut in an Endlessly Noisy World," dives into the consequences of our talk-heavy culture. He categorizes overtalkers, from blurters to talkaholics, exploring their impact on relationships. Discussing the toxicity of social media and conversational narcissism, Lyons advocates for mindful communication. He highlights silence as a powerful tool for negotiation and deep connections, emphasizing that sometimes less really is more in both personal and professional interactions.

Karen Stohr, a philosophy professor and author of "Choosing Freedom: A Kantian Guide to Life," makes Kant's ethics accessible. She discusses how his teachings can help us become better people by emphasizing our moral potential and duty to improve. The conversation covers topics like negative vs. positive freedom, the importance of treating others as ends in themselves, and the role of manners in fostering virtue. Stohr also explores the balance between love and respect in relationships, offering relatable insights into applying Kantian principles in everyday life.