The Art of Manliness

Teddy Atlas, renowned boxing trainer and ESPN analyst, shares his unconventional journey from a privileged background to training 18 world champions. He discusses lessons learned from his mentor, Cus D'Amato, and how boxing shaped his views on personal responsibility and manhood. Teddy recounts intense training in the South Bronx, emphasizing the resilience developed in fighters facing tough environments. He reflects on the impact of family teachings on masculinity and uses boxing as a metaphor for overcoming life's challenges.

In this engaging discussion, James Pawelski, a philosopher and psychologist, and his wife, Suzann Pileggi Pawelski, a psychologist, share insights from their book, "Happy Together." They emphasize that strong relationships shouldn't just be reactive but proactively nurtured. The couple debunks common myths about partnerships and highlights the power of emotions and strengths in fostering connection. With tips on appreciation and maintaining joy, they redefine love as an active practice, advocating for continuous growth and appreciation in relationships.

James Geary, the author of "Wit's End," dives into the fascinating world of wit and improvisational intelligence. He discusses how wit extends beyond humor to encompass resourcefulness and cleverness, drawing parallels to ancient figures like Odysseus. Geary champions puns as a sophisticated form of expression rather than lowbrow humor. He highlights the essential role of improvisation, likening it to jazz and fencing, and argues for the growing need for wit in today's complex world. Tune in for insights on enhancing your own wit!

Albert-László Barabási, a network science professor and author of 'The Formula,' reveals how success is more complex than merely talent and hard work. He discusses the distinction between performance and societal recognition, emphasizing how networking influences success stories. Barabási introduces five universal laws, highlighting how visibility, social influence, and endorsements can shape outcomes. He shares practical strategies for leveraging these insights to navigate your career and enhance your success.

Dr. Roberto Olivardia, a Harvard professor and co-author of 'The Adonis Complex,' discusses the surprising prevalence of male body image issues and eating disorders. He highlights that a significant number of men struggle with body perceptions, often due to societal pressures and changing standards of attractiveness. The conversation explores the phenomenon of bigorexia, where men obsess over muscle mass, and how disorders in men differ from those in women. Roberto emphasizes the need for awareness and healthier discussions around self-esteem and body image.

Forrest Pritchard, a farmer and co-author of 'Start Your Own Farm,' shares his journey from desk job to sustainable farming. He discusses the challenges of starting a farm, including costs and land acquisition, while emphasizing the benefits of diversification and innovation. The conversation touches on the emotional toll of farming, strategies to avoid burnout, and the evolving landscape of agriculture. Listeners gain insights on how to navigate the farming industry and the importance of supporting local businesses.

David Brooks, author of "The Second Mountain: The Quest for a Moral Life," discusses the journey from self-centered achievements to a more meaningful existence built on relationships. He reveals how societal values emphasize individual success, leading to loneliness and anxiety. Brooks outlines four key commitments that can guide us towards fulfillment and explains the difference between vocation and profession. By embracing community and responsibility, he advocates for a life rich in connection, emphasizing that true identity emerges through selflessness.

In this engaging dialogue, Chris Clearfield and Andras Tilcsik, co-authors of "Meltdown," explore how major disasters, from financial crashes to nuclear meltdowns, can inform better decision-making in our lives. They discuss the distinction between complicated and complex systems, shedding light on vulnerabilities that lead to failures. The guests share compelling anecdotes, like a Starbucks social media misstep, and emphasize the need for diverse perspectives and a blameless culture to strengthen organizational resilience and improve everyday systems.

Alden Mills, a former Navy SEAL platoon commander and founder of Perfect Fitness, discusses leadership principles from his book, 'Unstoppable Teams.' He emphasizes that truly caring for team members is crucial for high performance. Mills introduces his CARE loop, which highlights emotional connections, autonomy, and individual progression. He shares personal anecdotes from his SEAL training and business experiences, illustrating the power of mental resilience, self-awareness, and the importance of trust in building effective teams.

Edith Hall, a classicist and author of "Aristotle's Way," delves into timeless lessons from Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics. She contrasts ancient views on the good life with modern happiness, emphasizing virtue as essential for flourishing. Hall offers insights on handling misfortune, making sound decisions, and nurturing meaningful relationships, which are pivotal for personal fulfillment. Her discussion highlights the balance of emotions and intentions in ethical dilemmas, illustrating how Aristotle's wisdom remains relevant today.