The Art of Manliness

Stephen Cope is a psychotherapist, yoga teacher, and author of The Great Work of Your Life. In this insightful discussion, he explores the Bhagavad Gita as a rich source for understanding one's true calling. Cope highlights the importance of discerning your sacred duty through self-reflection. He delves into the concept of unified action and living fully in pursuit of your passions. Listeners learn about the need to let go of outcomes and embrace the process, supported by examples from historical figures like Thoreau and Susan B. Anthony.

Chef Chris Kronner, author of "A Burger to Believe In," shares his decade-long quest to craft the perfect burger. He reveals the secrets behind selecting the best beef, the benefits of dry aging, and how to shape the ideal patty. Chris dispels common myths about burger toppings and bun choices while contemplating the burger and fries pairing debate. He even shares his favorite fast food burger chain! Tune in for a delicious dive into the gourmet world of burgers.

Dennis C. Rasmussen, a Professor of political theory and author, discusses the surprising disillusionment of America's Founding Fathers. He reveals that figures like Washington and Jefferson grew increasingly pessimistic about their republican experiment, fearing future partisanship and a lack of civic virtue. Contrast this with Madison, who maintained optimism. Their reflections serve as a reminder that such disillusionment might carry an unexpected message of hope for contemporary society.

In this engaging discussion, Erica Dhawan, a leadership consultant and author, shares insights from her book on digital body language. She emphasizes that digital communication lacks nonverbal cues, leading to frequent misunderstandings. Erica highlights the importance of response times and punctuation in conveying tone. She explains how to decode email signatures and the impact of emojis. Listeners will learn how to avoid passive aggression and enhance their virtual interactions for better relationships, making digital communication feel more human.

Michael Finkel, author of 'The Stranger in the Woods,' shares the extraordinary tale of Christopher Knight, who embraced 27 years of solitude in the Maine woods. They discuss Knight's motivations for isolation and the profound meaning of individuality in our connected world. Finkel highlights the survival strategies Knight employed and the ethical dilemmas of living off the land. The conversation also reflects on the historical significance of hermitism and the contemporary tension between social connection and the need for solitude.

In this engaging discussion, author Josh Ireland delves into the tumultuous relationship between Winston Churchill and his son Randolph. Ireland shares how Winston, influenced by his own harsh upbringing, became an indulgent father to a rebellious son. They explore the emotional turmoil surrounding World War II and how high expectations impacted their bond. Notably, the discussion highlights the challenges faced by children of great leaders, revealing the heavy burden of living in a parent's shadow and the complex dynamics that ensue.

Greg McKeown, author of Essentialism and Effortless, emphasizes that life isn't just about hard work—it's about making essential tasks easier. He discusses the common misconception that more effort equals better results and highlights the importance of defining what 'done' looks like. With insights on microbursts of action and sustainable pacing, Greg reveals how emotions like gratitude can ease our journey. He draws from personal stories and history to illustrate that achieving goals can be more effortless by prioritizing what truly matters.

Barry Estabrook, an investigative journalist and author of "Just Eat," shares his quest for the most sustainable diet after testing over a dozen. He discusses the rich history of dieting, contrasting low-carb and low-fat philosophies, and the bizarre fads that have emerged. Estabrook highlights the pitfalls of extreme cleanse diets and emphasizes the reality of popular dieting trends. He concludes with insights on mindful eating and flexibility, showcasing how a more enjoyable approach can lead to lasting weight loss and improved health.

In this insightful conversation with Luke Burgis, author of "Wanting," we explore the fascinating dynamics of mimetic desire. Burgis explains how our wants are often shaped by those around us, particularly close friends and family, leading to rivalry and envy. He highlights the impact of social media on our perception of success, blurring the lines between celebrities and common individuals. By recognizing these influences, he encourages listeners to harness desire positively and opt out of unhealthy competition, focusing instead on constructive role models.

Tristan Gooley, a master outdoorsman and expert natural navigator, shares his insights on weather prediction without apps. He emphasizes reconnecting with nature by observing cloud shapes, animal behavior, and microclimates. Gooley discusses the significance of ancient wisdom in understanding weather patterns, like the saying about red skies. Listeners will discover practical tips for interpreting environmental signs, enhancing their ability to predict changes in weather and deepening their appreciation for the natural world.