The Art of Manliness

Ryan Swanson, a sports history professor and author of "The Strenuous Life," dives into Theodore Roosevelt's dynamic engagement with physical fitness and sports. Discover how Roosevelt's own struggles with health ignited his passion for vigorous living and inspired a national movement in the late 19th century. Swanson also reveals Roosevelt's pivotal role in preserving football, his thoughts on baseball, and how he embodied the 'strenuous life' even in the White House, promoting a legacy of athletic engagement in American culture.

Scott Young, author and renowned for completing an MIT computer science degree in under a year, shares his groundbreaking approach to ultralearning. He discusses how to master skills efficiently without traditional education. Key strategies include active learning, effective feedback, and planning. Young emphasizes the importance of self-directed study in today's job market and the personal growth that comes from pursuing passion-driven projects. Dive into techniques for skill mastery and discover how to navigate challenges in your learning journey!

Gregg Levoy, author of "Callings: Finding and Following an Authentic Life," discusses how callings are intuitive nudges we often ignore. He explains the difference between callings and vocations, emphasizing the need to respond to these inner prompts. Levoy highlights ways to discover your calling, including self-reflection, community, and rites of passage. He also addresses the challenges of pursuing callings and reframing setbacks as opportunities for growth. By staying connected to our true selves, we can better navigate life's meaningful decisions.

W. Thomas Boyce, a developmental pediatrician and author of "The Orchid and the Dandelion," explores the fascinating differences between children who are resilient like dandelions and those who are more fragile like orchids. He discusses how orchid children, while sensitive, can thrive spectacularly under the right conditions. The conversation dives into the impact of genetics and environment on children's development, unveiling how maternal stress during pregnancy influences sensitivities. Tom also shares practical tips for parents to help their children flourish.

Jane Leavy, a former sports journalist and author renowned for her biographies of baseball legends, dives deep into the life of Babe Ruth. She unravels his troubled childhood in a Baltimore boarding school and how it set the stage for his rise as America’s first superstar athlete. The conversation explores Ruth's hunger for fame, his groundbreaking influence on sports marketing, and the evolution of celebrity culture. Leavy also sheds light on the myths surrounding Ruth, contrasting his public persona with his personal struggles and legacy.

Nir Eyal, a behavioral design expert and author of 'Indistractable,' challenges the common belief that technology is the main source of distraction. He emphasizes that understanding our internal triggers is key to regaining focus. Nir shares effective strategies for managing distractions, such as time management techniques and the importance of making pre-commitments. He passionately argues that becoming indistractable involves reshaping our identity and aligning our goals with how we spend our time, ultimately turning the struggle with distraction into a personal growth journey.

In this conversation, Dr. John Berardi, a PhD in exercise physiology and co-founder of Precision Nutrition, dives into the complexities of metabolism. He challenges the myth of inherently fast or slow metabolisms, explaining how diet and exercise play vital roles in energy expenditure. The discussion includes the benefits of intermittent fasting, stress and sleep's impact on metabolic health, and practical tips for sustainable weight management. Listeners will learn how to optimize their metabolism while enjoying life's indulgences.

Lou Ferrante, a former member of the Gambino crime family, shares his incredible journey from mobster to author and documentary host. He discusses his transformation in prison, emphasizing the profound impact of literature on his life. Ferrante delves into the gangsters' code and the concept of omertà, exploring how these codes shape loyalty and honor. He addresses the reasons young men are drawn to gangs, highlighting the community and security they offer, revealing the complex ties between gangs and the neighborhoods they inhabit.

Scott Stanley, a psychology professor at the University of Denver and co-author of 'Fighting for Your Marriage,' shares valuable insights on nurturing lasting relationships. He discusses how marriage dynamics have evolved and highlights common marital issues, such as escalating arguments and communication breakdowns. Scott offers practical strategies for conflict resolution, emphasizing the importance of positive encounters and setting ground rules. He advocates for intentional commitment, ensuring couples focus not just on problem-solving but also on strengthening their bond.

Michael Lombardi, a seasoned NFL general manager and author of Gridiron Genius, shares invaluable insights on leadership gleaned from football's greatest coaches. He discusses how Bill Walsh revolutionized team culture, turning losing teams into champions through high standards and accountability. Lombardi explains the importance of thorough recruitment and effective communication in building cohesive teams. He also highlights the often-overlooked significance of special teams and innovative strategies, showcasing how these principles apply beyond football to any organization.