The Art of Manliness

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.

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.