The Art of Manliness

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.

Neal Roese, a psychology and marketing professor known for his work on regret, shares fascinating insights on handling life's "what if" questions. He explains counterfactual thinking, distinguishing between upward and downward scenarios. Roese argues that regret isn't always negative; it can spur personal growth and lead to happiness by recognizing worse outcomes. He also discusses common regrets, particularly in relationships and careers, emphasizing the importance of nurturing real-life connections over virtual validation.

Matthew Crawford, a philosopher and mechanic known for his works like "Shop Class as Soulcraft," dives into the philosophical implications of self-driving cars. He cautions against losing our agency and skill as we transition from drivers to passengers. Crawford highlights how driving embodies freedom, exploration, and mastery, while critiquing the safety-centric future of mobility. The discussion broadens to touch on the cultural significance of activities like hot rodding and how they relate to self-governance and human values.

Dr. Vivek Murthy, the 19th Surgeon General of the United States and author of 'Together', dives deep into the complex emotion of loneliness. He compares loneliness to hunger, signaling a need for connection. The discussion reveals how loneliness detrimentally affects mental health, especially among men, and its alarming rise in modern society. Murthy shares actionable strategies for combating this loneliness epidemic, emphasizing the importance of nurturing meaningful relationships and fostering genuine connections in our increasingly isolated world.