The Art of Manliness

Robert Talisse, a professor of political philosophy and author of Overdoing Democracy, argues against excessive political engagement. He discusses how today's saturation of politics in our lives creates polarization and extremism, urging listeners to separate personal relationships from political discourse. Talisse emphasizes that democracy should be about mutual respect, not just a framework for conflict. Further, he explores how our everyday choices reflect and deepen political divides, advocating for the need to reconnect through non-political activities.

Jeff Pearlman, author of "The Last Folk Hero," dives into the legendary life of Bo Jackson, the iconic dual-sport athlete. He explores Bo's mythical status and the challenges of growing up in poverty, alongside his disdain for practice due to overwhelming natural talent. Pearlman discusses pivotal moments in Bo's career, including his decision to forgo the Yankees, a devastating injury that altered his trajectory, and how he navigates life away from the spotlight while remaining a towering figure in sports history.

Daniel Z. Lieberman, a psychiatrist and author of 'Spellbound', delves into the mysteries of the unconscious mind. He discusses how the unconscious influences identity, creativity, and decision-making, emphasizing its hidden power. Lieberman explores Carl Jung's archetypes and the importance of integrating our conscious and unconscious selves for personal growth. He links the unconscious to magic through fairy tales and symbols, revealing how these stories can guide us toward understanding and tapping into our inner potential.

Mark Dawidziak, author of "Everything I Need to Know I Learned in the Twilight Zone," dives into the timeless wisdom embedded in this classic series. He discusses how each episode imparts life lessons about morality and existential challenges. Topics include the importance of living in the present, the duality of happiness, and the themes of escapism that resonate across generations. With Halloween approaching, they also share their picks for the scariest episodes, connecting entertainment to deeper reflections on life.

Laura Vanderkam, a time management expert and author, shares practical strategies from her Tranquility by Tuesday project. She reveals seven rules to enhance productivity and satisfaction, including the importance of giving yourself a bedtime and planning your week on Fridays. Vanderkam discusses how short bursts of exercise can elevate mood and advocates for integrating fulfilling activities and adventures into busy lives. Her insights on task management, like the 'Friday punch list', promise to rescue listeners from the chaos of daily life.

Gary Collins, an off-grid living advocate and author, shares his journey from urban life to a simpler existence in Northeast Washington. He discusses the importance of decluttering and taking gradual steps toward off-grid living, including starting with an RV. Gary highlights the significance of choosing the right land, considering water sources and building codes, and emphasizes the benefits of disconnecting from social media for personal well-being. His insights offer a roadmap for anyone dreaming of a more independent lifestyle far from the city's demands.

In this engaging discussion with Daniel Akst, author of "Temptation: Finding Self-Control in an Age of Excess," we explore the rich history and evolving understanding of self-control. Akst illuminates how ancient philosophies viewed self-discipline as a virtue, contrasting it with modern challenges exacerbated by technology and culture. He delves into the paradox of immediate gratification versus long-term goals, revealing practical strategies for enhancing self-control through environmental changes and supportive habits. Discover the path to mastering your impulses for a more fulfilling life.

Join Jeffrey S. Cramer, Curator of Collections at The Walden Woods Project and Thoreau expert, as he demystifies the iconic Walden experience. He reveals that Thoreau didn't go to Walden solely to write but sought deeper philosophical understanding. Discover the realities of his daily life at the pond, the dimensions of his house, and why his departure was more about practical obligations than attachment. Jeffrey also discusses the evolution of 'Walden' from a slow start to a classic, shedding light on common criticisms and Thoreau's lasting impact.

Annie Duke, a former professional poker player and author of "Quit: The Power of Knowing When to Walk Away," argues that quitting is a valuable skill, not a failure. She explores the balance between grit and quitting, emphasizing how both are essential for personal growth. Duke discusses cognitive biases like the sunk cost fallacy that hinder our ability to let go of unproductive paths, and she offers strategies like establishing 'kill criteria' to evaluate commitments efficiently. Discover how quitting can strategically redirect focus toward more meaningful pursuits.

Rolf Potts, a seasoned travel writer and author of 'Vagabonding,' shares his insights on a mindful approach to travel. He advocates for slowing down to truly experience destinations instead of rushing through iconic tourist spots. Rolf discusses how the romanticized view of travel can detract from genuine enjoyment and stresses the value of engaging with local cultures. He also introduces pilgrimage as a meaningful way to choose travel paths and addresses the impacts of culture shock when returning home. Embrace the vagabond lifestyle and discover authentic connections through travel!