
The Art of Manliness
The Art of Manliness Podcast aims to deepen and improve every area of a man's life, from fitness and philosophy, to relationships and productivity. Engaging and edifying interviews with some of the world's most interesting doers and thinkers drop the fluff and filler to glean guests' very best, potentially life-changing, insights.
Latest episodes

12 snips
May 16, 2022 • 56min
An Old-School Boxing Trainer on What It Means to Be a Man
Teddy Atlas, a legendary boxing trainer known for coaching 18 world champions, shares his unconventional journey from a troubled youth to a mentor in the ring. He discusses the profound lessons of personal responsibility and resilience he learned through boxing and from his father. Teddy recounts his transformative experiences training young fighters in the Bronx, emphasizing how boxing gyms serve as safe havens for growth. He explores the essential qualities of manhood shaped by hard work, courage, and the determination to face life's challenges.

43 snips
May 11, 2022 • 41min
Stress-Free Small Talk
Rich Gallagher, a family therapist specializing in social anxiety, shares insights from his book, "Stress-Free Small Talk." He discusses how overcoming small talk fear can lead to deeper connections. Gallagher offers practical techniques for preparing engaging conversations, joining ongoing discussions, and managing faux pas gracefully. He emphasizes the importance of active listening and balancing dialogue. Listeners will discover strategies for first dates and job interviews, as well as tips for navigating social events where they may feel out of place.

18 snips
May 9, 2022 • 45min
The Cold Water Swim Cure
Dr. Mark Harper, an anesthesiologist and author of "Chill: The Cold Water Swim Cure," dives into the invigorating world of cold water swimming. He discusses its remarkable benefits for mental health, including reducing anxiety and depression linked to inflammation. Mark shares how to safely start this practice, emphasizing optimal temperatures and preparation tips. He also explores the therapeutic aspects of swimming outdoors, detailing its advantages over other cold exposure methods. His insights may inspire you to take the leap into chilly waters!

34 snips
May 4, 2022 • 46min
The 5 Allies Every Man Needs
Antonio Neves, an author, speaker, and success coach, emphasizes the power of relationships for personal growth. He discusses five essential allies, like the encourager and accountability partner, who can elevate us towards our goals. The conversation highlights the stark contrast between supportive allies and hindering thieves in our lives. Neves shares advice on expanding social networks and navigating relationship dynamics to foster positive influences, urging listeners to reflect on their own roles in uplifting others.

19 snips
May 2, 2022 • 43min
Getting Along Is Overrated
In this enlightening conversation, Ian Leslie, author of "Conflicted: How Productive Disagreements Lead to Better Outcomes," challenges the common aversion to conflict. He explains how disagreement can enhance communication and strengthen relationships, much like exercise does for muscles. Ian debunks myths surrounding difficult conversations, advocating for emotional engagement and personal communication. He highlights the crucial role of trust and respect in navigating conflicts, framing them as opportunities for growth and understanding rather than destructive forces.

Apr 27, 2022 • 41min
The Harrowing Life of a World War II B-17 Pilot
Kevin Maurer, author of 'Damn Lucky,' shares the gripping tale of WWII B-17 pilot John 'Lucky' Luckadoo. They discuss the perilous air combat missions faced by pilots, with a shocking 1 in 10 chance of survival. Maurer highlights the brutal realities of life in a B-17, the emotional toll of war, and the bonds forged among young airmen. Listeners gain insight into the challenges of training, the harsh conditions of bombing runs, and the legacy of these brave pilots, ensuring their remarkable stories are honored and remembered.

44 snips
Apr 25, 2022 • 44min
Overcome the Decision Traps Around Diet and Exercise
Michelle Segar, a behavioral science researcher and health coach, dives into the common pitfalls of diet and exercise habits. She argues that focusing solely on motivation can lead to failure, as understanding obstacles like temptation and perfectionism is crucial. Segar introduces a three-step decision tool to overcome these disruptors and encourages embracing imperfections in health journeys. By highlighting the joy of flexible, enjoyable choices, she empowers listeners to redefine their relationship with diet and exercise for lasting change.

27 snips
Apr 20, 2022 • 56min
The Life We’re Looking For
Andy Crouch, author of 'The Life We’re Looking For,' delves into how technology affects our relationships and personal growth. He discusses the yearning for genuine connection beyond digital screens, emphasizing the dangerous illusion of personalized interactions. Crouch argues for rethinking our social structures by creating 'households' to foster real intimacy. He also highlights the importance of using technology as instruments for engagement rather than mere devices, challenging us to seek deeper connections in an increasingly isolating digital world.

Apr 18, 2022 • 32min
The U-Shaped Curve of Happiness
David Branchflower, a labor economist and happiness researcher, dives into the intriguing U-shaped curve of happiness. He discusses how happiness tends to decline from adolescence into midlife before experiencing an upswing. Branchflower reveals that many people hit their lowest happiness point around midlife, influenced by factors like unemployment and marital status. He highlights the dual nature of children’s impact on happiness and emphasizes the significance of social connections and realistic aspirations in navigating midlife well-being.

Apr 13, 2022 • 40min
The Rise, Fall, and Redemption of Johnny Cash
Marshall Terrill, co-author of "Johnny Cash: The Redemption of an American Icon," shares rich insights into the life of the legendary musician. They dive into Cash's challenging upbringing and his fierce empathy for the marginalized. Discussion ranges from his tumultuous rise to fame, the dark struggles with addiction, to his remarkable comeback fueled by profound faith. Terrill also highlights the emotional complexities of Cash's relationships, particularly with June Carter, revealing how these dynamics shaped his enduring legacy.