The Art of Manliness

James Nestor, author of "Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art," dives into the often-overlooked power of breathing. He shares his fascinating experiment of blocking his nose, revealing how mouth breathing can alter facial structure and overall health. Nestor emphasizes the benefits of nasal breathing and proper exhalation for well-being. He introduces advanced breathing techniques that regulate carbon dioxide, enhance athletic performance, and combat panic attacks. Discover transformative breathing practices that can change your life.

Maria Konnikova, PhD in psychology and author, shares her remarkable journey from poker novice to champion under the mentorship of Eric Seidel. She reveals how poker offers profound insights into the balance of luck and skill, aiding decision-making in life. Maria discusses the philosophical connections to gambling, the importance of detaching from outcomes, and how learning to observe rather than just see enhances understanding. Dive into biases that cloud judgment and discover how poker strategies can lead to personal growth and resilience.

Stephan Guyenet, a neuroscientist and obesity researcher, dives into the ancient instincts driving modern overeating. He explains how the brain's reward system and processed foods, like Doritos, manipulate our cravings. Guyenet also discusses the impact of sleep and stress on weight management. He highlights the role of the hormone leptin in appetite regulation and shares techniques to combat overeating. The conversation reveals how changes in our diets since the 1970s have contributed to the obesity epidemic, offering insights on making healthier food choices.

Gordon Marino, a philosophy professor, boxing coach, and author, dives deep into the wisdom of existentialism. He shares his personal journey from football to philosophy, revealing how both realms intersect. Marino explains Kierkegaard’s thoughts on anxiety and despair, advocating for authenticity amid emotional struggles. The conversation highlights the importance of embracing life's uncertainties and the moral dangers of procrastination. Additionally, they explore love's complexities and how existential thinkers propose living a meaningful, authentic life.

Join Daniel Stillman, a consultant and author of 'Good Talk,' as he explores how design thinking can revolutionize conversations. He highlights the importance of thoughtfully structuring even everyday dialogues to enhance connection and influence. Discover the impact of environment and medium on effective communication. Stillman offers insights on inviting others into discussions, mastering turn-taking, and dealing with awkward moments. This conversation is packed with practical tips to improve your communication skills and foster deeper connections.

Joe Jackson, the author of *Black Elk: The Life of an American Visionary*, delves into the life of Black Elk, a revered Lakota medicine man. They discuss Black Elk's transformative near-death vision at nine, which compelled him to champion his people's spirituality and resilience. Jackson highlights Black Elk's participation in pivotal battles against the U.S. government, his complex fusion of Lakota beliefs with Catholicism, and the cultural impact of *Black Elk Speaks*, which opened a dialogue on Native American spirituality in the West.

Nicholas Carr, author of "The Shallows," explores how the internet is reshaping our minds. He discusses the decline in deep thinking due to digital distractions and the differences between reading screens versus books. Carr highlights the importance of memory in an age of easy access to information and critiques how hyperlinks disrupt comprehension. He also shares his personal journey in balancing the benefits of technology while mitigating its downsides, emphasizing the need for slow, contemplative engagement amidst the fast-paced digital world.

Dave Young, a security expert and author of "How to Defend Your Family and Home," shares invaluable insights into safeguarding your home. He discusses how criminals choose their targets and offers practical tips for fortifying your property. Young emphasizes the importance of preparation, including selecting safe hiding spots and choosing appropriate self-defense tools. He also highlights the need for firearm training if you opt for a gun. Finally, he addresses the emotional aftermath of home invasions, focusing on resilience and recovery.

Michael Raynor, an expert in business strategy and author of "The Strategy Paradox," dives into the intriguing concept that the same strategy can lead to both success and failure. He analyzes Sony's choice of Betamax over VHS to illustrate this paradox. Raynor discusses how companies can navigate uncertainty by separating commitment from doubt, emphasizing the importance of strategic flexibility. He intriguingly extends this discussion to personal decision-making, outlining how understanding this paradox can aid individuals beyond the business realm.

Bonnie Tsui, author of "Why We Swim," dives into the captivating world of swimming, exploring its cultural significance and historical roots. She discusses how swimming, unlike other activities, must be learned. Bonnie shares fascinating stories of cultures that thrive in water and how swimming fostered community during the Iraq War. The conversation also highlights swimming's dual nature as both a combat skill and a source of mental and physical restoration, revealing how it can spark creativity and flow in our thinking.