The Art of Manliness

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.

In this discussion, Jacob Howland, a recently retired philosophy professor from the University of Tulsa, delves into the emergence of a new secular religion characterized by moral absolutism. He argues that contemporary debates on race and gender have taken on a religious fervor, reminiscent of a modern Puritanism. Howland explores the influence of critical theory on societal dynamics, contrasts it with classical liberalism, and critiques the focus on group identity over individuality. His insights reveal the philosophical undercurrents shaping today’s cultural landscape.

Bob Sutton, a Stanford professor and author of 'The No Asshole Rule,' delves into the intricacies of dealing with difficult personalities. He defines what makes someone a jerk and the significant impact they have in workplaces. Sutton shares strategies on managing these toxic individuals, including documentation and the strategic use of anger. Surprisingly, he discusses how being a jerk can sometimes yield short-term gains in leadership. The conversation wraps up with insights on constructing a jerk-free workplace culture.

Scott Sonnenshein, a professor and co-author of "Joy at Work," shares innovative strategies for decluttering your work life. He discusses the significant benefits of a tidy workspace on mental well-being and productivity. Listeners will learn three essential questions to determine what to keep in their offices, how to effortlessly let go of sentimental items, and tips for streamlining their digital lives. Additionally, Scott highlights the importance of quality networking and efficient meetings, transforming clutter into clarity for enhanced professional success.

Shannon French, a professor of ethics and philosophy, specializes in the intricate codes of conduct that govern warriors throughout history. She discusses the moral dilemmas faced by soldiers and the distinction between being a warrior and a mere killer. The conversation spans warrior codes from Homer's Iliad to the Stoic principles of Roman soldiers, medieval chivalry, and the wisdom of Native American cultures. Shannon emphasizes the significance of identity, the psychological impacts of combat, and the need for ethical behavior in today’s warfare.

Mark Adams, author of "Mr. America," delves into the eccentric life of Bernarr Macfadden, America's first fitness influencer. They discuss Macfadden's founding of the magazine 'Physical Culture' and his radical health philosophies, including fasting and extreme diets. Adams reveals how Macfadden trained fascist cadets, faced obscenity charges, and even ran for U.S. senator on a fitness platform. The conversation highlights Macfadden's innovative yet controversial legacy in shaping modern health media and personal branding.

Cal Newport, author and advocate for focused living, dives into the philosophy of digital minimalism. He discusses why our devices feel addictive and points out that common tips to reduce usage often fall flat. Newport shares insights on the Amish approach to evaluating technology, highlighting the importance of community over convenience. He suggests a 30-day tech fast to reassess digital habits and advocates for viewing social media as a stepping stone rather than a final destination. This conversation offers practical strategies for decluttering your digital life.

Ozan Varol, a former astrophysicist and current legal expert, shares insights from his book, "Think Like a Rocket Scientist." He discusses how principles of rocket science can simplify decision-making, emphasizing the importance of questioning established norms to drive innovation. Ozan explains strategies for navigating uncertainty and highlights the role of thought experiments in problem-solving, encouraging listeners to learn from failures. This engaging conversation blends science with practical life lessons, showcasing how to better approach challenges at work and in life.

Gary Collins, an author and off-grid living expert, shares his journey from urban life to independence in Northeast Washington. He outlines essential steps to simplify your life, including the benefits of RV living and careful land selection. Collins discusses practical solutions for water, sewage, and power, emphasizing the financial realities of off-grid living. He even tackles the metaphorical aspects of getting off the grid by quitting social media, advocating for meaningful connections over digital distractions. Dive into this insightful conversation that inspires the dream of a simpler life!

Kate Julian, a writer at The Atlantic known for her insights on childhood anxiety, explores the alarming rise of mental health issues among kids today. She discusses how modern parenting, influenced by technology and social media, often exacerbates children's anxiety. Emphasizing resilience, she advocates for allowing kids to face discomfort to better prepare them for challenges. The conversation also touches on the role of news exposure in fostering resilience, making this a thought-provoking discussion on mental health in today's youth.