The Art of Manliness

Matthew Dicks, a five-time Moth GrandSlam winner and author of 'Storyworthy', shares his storytelling expertise. He emphasizes that anyone can learn to tell compelling stories, using everyday moments for rich narratives. Dicks introduces 'Homework for Life,' a technique to discover hidden stories in daily experiences. He discusses the importance of engaging beginnings and endings, as well as the pitfalls to avoid in storytelling. Plenty of practical advice awaits, including how great stories don't need grand events to capture attention.

Thomas Joiner, a clinical psychologist and author, dives deep into the critical issue of male loneliness and its alarming link to higher suicide rates among men. He explains how societal pressures lead men to prioritize work over relationships, worsening their sense of isolation, especially in middle age. Joiner distinguishes between subjective and objective loneliness and offers insights on how social media can both connect and isolate. He emphasizes actionable strategies for men to cultivate meaningful relationships and balance work with socializing to combat loneliness.

In this insightful discussion, Alex Soojung Kim-Pang, a writer and consultant specializing in productivity and rest, shares his expertise on the necessity of redefining rest. He argues that quality rest is an active pursuit, essential for both creativity and productivity. Alex explains how mind-wandering can enhance our problem-solving abilities, and why incorporating structured rest and hobbies into our routines is vital. He draws on inspiring stories from notable figures to advocate for a balanced work-life approach that fosters growth and rejuvenation.

Join Steven Rinella, an expert hunter, author, and host of MeatEater, as he dives into the world of hunting and conservation. He unpacks how he got into hunting and its surprising benefits, dispelling myths that make it seem daunting for beginners. Steven shares essential outdoor skills, gear recommendations, and hydration tips, favoring Nalgene bottles for outdoor adventures. Plus, he emphasizes the importance of safety training and getting kids involved in the outdoors. A practical guide for nature enthusiasts awaits!

David Whyte, a poet and corporate consultant, explores the transformative power of poetry in the workplace. He argues that every job shapes our souls and discusses how inviting risk can lead to personal growth. Whyte shares insights from his background in marine zoology and reflects on the importance of meaningful friendships. He draws lessons from the tale of Beowulf, highlighting the necessity of confronting inner fears and engaging in tough conversations. Throughout, he reads stirring poems that illuminate the connection between work, identity, and creativity.

Joseph McCormack is the founder of the BRIEF Lab and author of "Brief: Make a Bigger Impact by Saying Less." He discusses the importance of succinct communication, tracing its value back to the Spartans. By prioritizing clarity, he offers practical techniques to enhance communication in a world flooded with information. Topics include transforming military communication, mastering brevity in emails and meetings, and preparing for impactful conversations. McCormack emphasizes storytelling as a tool for engagement, proving that less can indeed be more.

In this discussion, guests Jay Belsky and Terrie Moffitt, both esteemed professors of human development and co-authors of The Origins of You, delve into how childhood experiences shape adult lives. They share fascinating insights from longitudinal studies on self-control and behavioral traits like aggressiveness and shyness. The conversation uncovers the lasting impact of childhood bullying, questions the assumptions stemming from the marshmallow experiment, and highlights the importance of early interventions in promoting positive outcomes.

In this engaging discussion, Andrew Wilson, a professor at the Naval War College and lecturer on military strategy, explores the evolution of martial strategy. He explains why it's essential for civilians to study these principles. The conversation highlights the contrasting tactics of generals Eisenhower and Patton and reflects on insights from Sun Tzu and Clausewitz. Wilson emphasizes the relevance of historical theories to modern warfare and the need for strategies that adapt to today's complex landscape.

Adam Price, a child psychologist and author of "He's Not Lazy," discusses teenage boys' struggles with motivation. He argues that many young men feel overwhelmed by pressure and fear of failure, rather than being truly lazy. Price emphasizes that nagging can worsen these issues, and instead, parents should grant boys more autonomy. He advocates for open communication and support, allowing boys to face natural consequences, which fosters accountability and resilience. This insightful conversation reshapes how we view engagement in teenage boys.

Ryan Hurst, head coach at GMB Fitness and a martial arts enthusiast, shares his journey from gymnastics to mastering various disciplines in Japan. He emphasizes the importance of physical autonomy, blending strength, flexibility, and control to navigate life's challenges confidently. Hurst reveals four animal-inspired movements for balanced athleticism and how to integrate effective training into busy lives. With insights on the five P's of training, he shows how mastering basic skills can lead to lasting physical confidence and capability.