The Art of Manliness

In this engaging conversation, Micah Mortali, founder of the Kripalu School of Mindful Outdoor Leadership and author of 'Rewilding,' shares his journey of combining yoga, mindfulness, and nature. He emphasizes the need for modern humans to reconnect with their primal instincts to thrive. Micah discusses practical rewilding techniques like nature meditation, the benefits of animal tracking, and building survival skills. He offers accessible tips for anyone, even urban dwellers, to embrace the natural world and restore their sensory connection to it.

Rich Diviney, a retired Navy SEAL commander and author of The Attributes, explores the hidden drivers behind optimal performance. He discusses why some high-achievers struggle while others thrive, emphasizing the importance of attributes over teachable skills. Diviney dives into concepts like grit, self-discipline, and mental acuity, explaining how these qualities can be cultivated for better outcomes. He also shares strategies for identifying personal strengths and weaknesses, guiding listeners on their journey to success.

In this conversation with Robert Twigger, an author who explores masculinity, he critiques how modern society infantilizes men, making them easier to control. He discusses four essential factors that contribute to feeling manly and shares his personal journey of hiking the Pyrenees and learning martial arts to reclaim his identity. Twigger highlights the need for developing traditional masculine skills and emphasizes that men can revitalize their vitality through engaging physical activities, encouraging a return to true manhood.

Andrew Delbanco, a Professor of American Studies at Columbia University and author of "College: What It Was, Is, and Should Be," dives into the evolving role of higher education. He discusses the original purpose of colleges in character development versus today’s job-focused approach. Delbanco argues for the importance of a liberal arts education in grappling with life's big questions and critiques the specialization trend. He also clarifies the distinctions between colleges and universities, advising prospective students on how to choose the right fit for a meaningful education.

Dr. Wendy Troxel, a clinical psychologist and sleep specialist, discusses the intricate connection between sleep and relationships. She dives into how shared sleep issues—like snoring and temperature preferences—affect couples, emphasizing a collaborative approach to solutions. Wendy explores the historical taboo of sleeping in separate beds and argues that for some couples, this arrangement could enhance relationship satisfaction. She also addresses the challenges of family co-sleeping and the need for open communication to navigate sleep-related conflicts.

Adrian Goldsworthy, a renowned classical historian and author, delves into the pivotal role of Philip II of Macedon in shaping his son, Alexander the Great. They discuss Philip's innovative military strategies that transformed a struggling kingdom into a dominant force in Greece. Goldsworthy highlights the relationship between father and son, revealing how Philip's vision and tactics set the stage for Alexander's own conquests. The conversation also speculates on how history might have shifted had Philip lived longer, underscoring the profound impact of character on conquest.

Brandon Warmke, a philosophy professor and co-author of "Grandstanding: The Use and Abuse of Moral Talk," dives deep into the concept of moral grandstanding, which he argues is a key driver of our divisive public discourse. He explains how this behavior focuses on self-promotion rather than genuine moral engagement. The conversation covers the link between narcissism and political grandstanding, the societal costs of this trend, and offers practical strategies for fostering more constructive dialogue in an increasingly polarized environment.

Gary Hoover, author and founder of the bookstore chain Bookstop, shares his love for books, boasting a personal library of 60,000. He discusses why he favors physical books over e-books and the benefits of collecting non-fiction. Listeners learn his unique method for digesting the essence of a book in just thirty minutes and the importance of older texts in enhancing knowledge. Hoover emphasizes the value of personalized reading experiences, thoughtful engagement with literature, and the joy of building a home library filled with curated resources.

Julian Treasure, author of "How to Be Heard" and a celebrated TED speaker, shares his expert insights on effective communication. He emphasizes the vital link between listening and speaking, urging listeners to hone their listening skills. Treasure reveals four foundations for powerful speaking applicable in any context, including tips on vocal techniques and body language. He highlights the importance of authenticity in public speaking and offers practical tips to enhance vocal resonance, ensuring your message truly resonates.

Brian David Johnson, a seasoned futurist and author of "The Future You," dives into the art of shaping one’s future rather than just predicting it. He emphasizes the importance of envisioning possibilities and strategically planning to create desired outcomes. Johnson discusses the concept of futurecasting—identifying goals, tools, and support systems to navigate towards a fulfilling life. He also shares insights on the need for flexibility in planning and how a futurist mindset can empower individuals to adapt and thrive in a changing world.