The Art of Manliness

Mark Seal, an accomplished journalist and author of 'Leave the Gun, Take the Cannoli,' reveals the fascinating journey behind the making of The Godfather. He shares how Mario Puzo's struggles shaped the iconic story, and the surprising casting choices that brought legendary characters to life. Seal discusses Coppola's directing challenges, including a real mob boss's interference and the unexpected acclaim for Marlon Brando's portrayal of Don Corleone. Discover the film's cultural legacy and the improvisational gems that define this cinematic masterpiece.

Dr. Mark McLaughlin, a practicing neurosurgeon and author of Cognitive Dominance, shares his expertise on mastering fear in high-pressure situations. He discusses how fear can paralyze us and the concept of cognitive dominance as a tool to overcome this. Mark outlines a four-quadrant model to help listeners manage stressors, breaking down emotional responses for clearer decision-making. He emphasizes transforming fear into a manageable force and highlights the importance of mentorship and Stoic philosophies in developing composure and resilience.

Will Storr, author of "The Status Game," dives deep into the fascinating world of social status and its psychological impacts. He explains how the pursuit of status influences our behaviors, emotions, and even our mental health. From the thrill of achievement to the pain of humiliation, Storr reveals the multifaceted role status plays in our lives. He discusses its historical roots and how modern social media intensifies status games. Discover healthier ways to navigate these dynamics and enhance your sense of self-worth.

Benjamin Milligan, a former Navy SEAL and author of 'By Water Beneath the Walls', delves into the surprising history of Navy SEALs and their unique evolution. He explores how sailors transitioned into elite operators, discussing the formation of commando units and the pivotal roles played by characters like Draper Kaufman. Milligan reveals the SEALs' unexpected land-based operations and how WWII-shaped underwater teams ultimately led to their legendary status, highlighting the cultural adaptability of the Navy in modern warfare.

Mark Schatzker, author of "The End of Craving," dives deep into the surprising truths behind obesity. He challenges conventional beliefs about carbs and explores how food additives and vitamins may alter our cravings. Mark reveals that desire and enjoyment of food often disconnect, leading to overeating without satisfaction. He also discusses how our bodies naturally seek a healthy weight and argues that truly enjoying delicious food can be a powerful strategy in combating obesity. Get ready to rethink your relationship with food!

Katrina Onstad, author of "The Weekend Effect," reveals how our weekends have transformed into just another extension of the workweek. She discusses the common 'Sunday Night Blues' and why we often feel regret for not making the most of our time off. Katrina advocates for reclaiming weekends with meaningful leisure, active pursuits, and deeper connections with loved ones. By pushing back against overwork and the lure of chores, she encourages finding joy in spontaneity and prioritizing relaxation, turning weekends back into cherished adventures.

Louis Menand, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author and Harvard professor, delves into the intriguing world of the Metaphysical Club, a group founded in 1872 that gave birth to pragmatism. He unpacks the profound contributions of notable figures like Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr. and William James, exploring how their experiences shaped American philosophy. Menand discusses the rise and decline of pragmatism, its historical significance, and its relevance today, including the tension between belief and the scientific understanding of the world.

Ryan Burge, a pastor and political science professor, discusses the remarkable rise of religious 'nones' in America, growing from 5% in 1972 to nearly 24% by 2018. He delves into the reasons behind this shift, including the impact of politics on religious affiliation, where people now align their beliefs with political views. Ryan breaks down the demographics of the nones, comprising atheists, agnostics, and those claiming 'nothing in particular.' He speculates on the future of spirituality and how younger generations might seek new forms of faith.

Dr. Scott Small, a memory science expert and director of the Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center at Columbia University, explores the unexpected perks of forgetting. He highlights how normal lapses in memory can enhance creativity, improve decision-making, and ease emotional burdens, particularly in trauma recovery. Forgetting allows us to generalize experiences and fosters resilience, challenging the view that memory loss is solely negative. Additionally, he discusses the interplay between sleep and forgetting, emphasizing its crucial role in our mental well-being.

Pasi Sahlberg, a Finnish educator and researcher, dives into the vital role of unstructured play in child development. He highlights how Finland’s education system emphasizes play over standardized testing, leading to happier and more successful students. Sahlberg discusses alarming trends in U.S. playtime due to academic pressures and structured activities. He argues that unstructured outdoor play enhances creativity, decision-making, and essential social skills, urging parents and schools to prioritize free play for healthier childhood experiences.