The Art of Manliness

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.

Richard Kilblane, an author and veteran of the Army's Special Forces, dives into the captivating story of Jake McNiece and the infamous Filthy Thirteen, a WWII demolition unit. He shares tales of McNiece's rebellious spirit and unconventional leadership that stood out during his boot camp days. The podcast explores the group's daring missions before D-Day and the bonds formed under chaotic circumstances. Kilblane also highlights McNiece's journey from mischief-maker to a respected leader, illustrating the complexities of camaraderie and courage in wartime.

Dr. Charles Chafin, an expert on attention and author of "Numb," dives into the paradox of constant digital stimulation leading to emotional numbness. He explains how overexposure to media can result in compassion fatigue, making us disengaged and overwhelmed. Chafin discusses the detrimental impact of social media, particularly Instagram, on our real-life experiences and relationships. He offers practical strategies to reclaim our attention and suggests focusing on meaningful engagement to combat feelings of disconnection in this digital age.

Christopher Cox, author of "The Deadline Effect," dives into the fascinating world of deadlines and their dual nature. He reveals how deadlines can spur productivity while also leading to procrastination. Chris offers practical strategies, such as setting interim checkpoints and using structured timelines to harness deadlines effectively. He illustrates his points with real-world examples, from Michelin-star chefs to ski resorts, and shares tips for using deadlines to boost motivation and organization in both personal and professional life.