The Art of Manliness

David Stuttard, a classicist and author known for his works on Athens, shares a captivating look at the city-state's dramatic rise and fall. He discusses how aristocrats embraced democracy and how the Persian invasion propelled Athens to power. Stuttard highlights the pivotal roles of Miltiades and Cimon in achieving victory, while also delving into the life of the notorious Alcibiades and his impact during the Peloponnesian War. The conversation wraps up with valuable lessons on hubris and vulnerability that resonate with today's society.

Meghan Sullivan and Paul Blaschko, philosophy professors at the University of Notre Dame and co-authors of The Good Life Method, share their insights on living a fulfilling life through virtue ethics. They discuss the importance of engaging in meaningful conversations, asking strong questions, and understanding moral intentions. The duo explores the balance of love and work in achieving eudaimonia, emphasizing that deep attention is key. Listeners will love their take on integrating contemplation into daily life for greater personal growth and flourishing.

W. Keith Campbell, a Professor of Psychology and author with over 25 years of research on narcissism, dives deep into this intriguing topic. He clarifies the two types of narcissism: grandiose and vulnerable. The discussion covers how narcissists can initially attract others but often lead to relationship issues over time. Keith also explores the effects of social media on narcissistic behaviors, dispelling myths about its role in increasing narcissism. Discover strategies to harness narcissism's benefits while mitigating its downsides!

Shannon French, a professor of ethics and philosophy with a focus on military ethics, dives deep into the complexities of warrior codes throughout history. She discusses how these codes, from ancient Greece to the chivalry of knights, define honorable behavior in warfare. Shannon explores crucial questions about the ethics of killing, the identity of a warrior versus a murderer, and the psychological impacts on soldiers. She also highlights the healing rituals of Native American tribes and the Samurai, offering timeless lessons on morality and leadership.

Thatcher Wine, author of "The Twelve Monotasks," champions the art of monotasking as a path to enhanced productivity and reduced stress. He debunks the multitasking myth, explaining how focusing on one task at a time can elevate work quality. The conversation highlights the importance of mindful activities like walking and reading, showcasing how they boost clarity and attention. Thatcher encourages listeners to strip distractions from daily tasks and cultivate their "monotasking muscles" to reclaim focus and improve overall well-being.

In this engaging discussion, strength coach and author Dan John simplifies fat loss with his straightforward approach. He emphasizes setting specific weight goals to enhance motivation and shares practical tips like drinking hot water with lemon and incorporating intermittent fasting into daily routines. Dan also introduces his 'Easy Strength' program, which combines weightlifting and walking, and offers strategies for overcoming weight loss plateaus. His insights into nutrition and sustainable habits make this a must-listen for anyone aiming to shed pounds effectively.

Dr. BJ Fogg, founder of Stanford's Behavior Design Lab and author of "Tiny Habits," shares insightful strategies for effecting meaningful personal change. He emphasizes the power of tiny habits and explains the three key components of behavior change: motivation, ability, and prompts. BJ discusses how to simplify habit formation, the importance of celebrating small wins, and views breaking bad habits as untangling rather than destruction. Discover how tiny changes can ripple into significant transformations over time!

Gregg Krech, executive director of the ToDo Institute and author of 'Naikan,' dives into the transformative practice of self-reflection based on Japanese traditions. He discusses the three life-changing questions that can enhance self-awareness and clarity in your life. Through the lens of Naikan, Gregg emphasizes gratitude and the interplay of giving and receiving in relationships. He also introduces practical methods to make self-reflection a ritual, particularly as we embrace a new year, fostering personal growth and deeper connections with others.

Peter Hart, an Oral Historian with 40 years at the Imperial War Museum and author of The Great War, dives into the fascinating story of the 1914 Christmas Truce during World War I. He explores the myths versus realities of soldiers briefly sidelining their enmity for shared carols and soccer games. Hart reveals that while sentiment played a role, practical motivations also influenced the truce. Additionally, he reflects on the harsh conditions of trench warfare, illuminating the complexities behind this extraordinary moment of humanity amid the chaos of conflict.

Louis Markos, a Professor of English and C.S. Lewis expert, discusses the philosopher's view on the human soul, comprising the head, belly, and vital 'chest' which cultivates virtue. Markos highlights Lewis's conversion to Christianity and its impact on his moral philosophy. They explore how to educate the chest through myths, rejecting 'chronological snobbery,' and fostering excellence in friendships. This conversation sheds light on the significance of storytelling and community in developing character and moral understanding.