The Art of Manliness

Join Peter Reinhart, a master baker, educator, and author of "The Bread Baker's Apprentice," as he delves into the world of bread-making. Discover the mystical and spiritual significance of bread, exploring its cultural and historical roots. Reinhart reveals the twelve steps of bread creation, emphasizing the future of sourdough. He also shares the transformative journey of baking, linking it to deeper life themes. Highlighting the essential ingredients, he uncovers practical tips for achieving that perfect loaf.

Derrick Levasseur, a former undercover detective and Big Brother champion, shares his unique journey from law enforcement to reality TV. He discusses how social skills, authenticity, and adaptability played crucial roles in both his undercover work and game strategy. Derrick explains the art of active listening to influence others and the importance of understanding body language to detect deception. He also reflects on the transformative power of life's challenges, offering insights on navigating adversity and personal growth.

Emily Manoogian, a chronobiologist at the Salk Institute, shares fascinating insights on the critical role of meal timing for metabolic health. She explains how aligning your eating schedule with your circadian rhythms can enhance glucose regulation and overall well-being. Discover the best times to start and stop eating, the importance of consuming more calories earlier in the day, and effective strategies for shift workers. Emily emphasizes structured eating habits to combat late-night snacking and optimize your metabolism.

In this engaging discussion, guest Alex Petkas, a former classicist and professor, introduces Plutarch's influential work, Parallel Lives, which shaped moral teachings in 18th century America. He explains Plutarch's unique approach to biography as a way to convey virtue and morality, examining the contrasting emotions of zeal and envy. The conversation highlights the lives of less-known figures like Eumenes and Sertorius, showcasing their strategic brilliance and relevance to contemporary leadership. Alex also shares tips for diving into Plutarch's timeless narratives.

Join Dr. Kenneth Carter, a clinical psychologist and author of "Buzz!", as he explores the fascinating world of sensation-seekers versus chill-seekers. Discover how personality traits influence our desire for adventure or comfort through an engaging quiz. Delve into the psychological and biological aspects of thrill-seeking behaviors, including the role of testosterone and dopamine. Learn how these differing traits impact relationships, work dynamics, and the quest for excitement, with practical tips on fostering understanding between these contrasting personalities.

Mark Leary, a psychology and neuroscience professor at Duke University, dives into the complexities of social rejection. He explores why rejection hurts so deeply, both emotionally and physically. Leary discusses the sociometer concept, which tracks our perceived social value and influences our sensitivity to acceptance and rejection. He also addresses how cultural factors shape male responses to rejection and the potential for aggressive behaviors stemming from feelings of exclusion. Finally, Mark offers practical strategies for managing rejection with empathy and resilience.

Paul Taylor, a former British Royal Navy Aircrew Officer and a multidisciplinary expert, dives into the science of hormesis and how intermittent stress can boost health. He discusses the benefits of embracing discomfort through practices like fasting and cold exposure, offering tips on sauna temperatures and creating a budget-friendly ice bath. Taylor also highlights gut health with dietary advice and a simple fasting technique that supports longevity. Discover how modern comforts might be hindering your resilience and learn actionable strategies for a healthier life.

Lee Child, the international bestselling author behind the Jack Reacher series, shares insights into his late start in writing and the genesis of Reacher, a character rooted in ancient archetypes. He delves into the allure of the lone wolf, exploring themes of nobility and isolation. Their discussion also highlights the tension between justice and revenge in Reacher's stories. Child reveals his spontaneous writing process and the excitement of passing the series to his brother, Andrew, ensuring Reacher's legacy continues.

Dr. Daniel Crosby, a psychologist and behavioral finance expert, sheds light on how money can actually enhance happiness under certain conditions. He discusses the minimum income needed to avoid pain and emphasizes the importance of spending on health and meaningful experiences rather than succumbing to materialism. Daniel highlights the significance of aligning financial choices with personal values and advocates for a values audit to ensure your spending reflects your true priorities. He also warns against excessive saving, urging listeners to invest in their well-being.

Elias Aboujaoude, a Stanford psychiatry professor and author of A Leader's Destiny, dives into the pitfalls of the leadership industrial complex. He argues that not everyone needs to be a leader, warning that the pressure to conform can lead to burnout and inadequacy. Elias challenges the belief that leadership can be taught, highlighting the importance of innate traits and emotional intelligence. He also emphasizes the value of being a follower, promoting a broader understanding of team dynamics and the fulfillment found in diverse roles.