The Art of Manliness

Michael Hebb, founder of Death Over Dinner, inspires listeners to broach the topic of death during social gatherings. He discusses the cultural taboos surrounding mortality and the emotional and financial pitfalls of avoiding these conversations. Hebb offers practical tips for hosting dinners where guests can discuss end-of-life care and personal philosophies about death. He emphasizes how such discussions can deepen connections and foster understanding, ultimately encouraging a more compassionate approach to mortality.

Martyn Whittock, co-author of "Tales of Valhalla," dives into the mesmerizing world of Norse mythology. He begins by debunking myths about the Norse and Vikings, revealing their rich cultural identity. The discussion unfolds to explore creation stories and the major gods like Odin and Thor, while also demystifying Ragnarok. Whittock highlights the influence of Norse sagas on modern culture, comparing them to the narratives popularized by Tolkien and Marvel. Their legacy persists, but understanding their true essence remains a challenge.

Tommy Caldwell, a celebrated rock climber known for scaling the Dawn Wall on El Capitan, shares his incredible journey. He discusses the evolution of rock climbing, explaining the nuances of free climbing and its misconceptions. Tommy recounts a harrowing hostage experience in Kyrgyzstan, revealing his resilience. He opens up about personal losses, including a divorce and losing a finger, and the significance of 'elective suffering' in pursuit of goals. Each story unfolds powerful lessons on persistence and overcoming life's obstacles.

Scott Stossel, editor at The Atlantic and author of 'My Age of Anxiety,' shares his lifelong journey with anxiety, exploring its historical context and treatment. He discusses how societal factors and childhood experiences shape anxiety, while also questioning current diagnostic criteria. Stossel delves into effective therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy, the complexities of traditional medication, and the dual nature of anxiety's impact on creativity. He reflects on his current state of anxiety and the ongoing hope for peace of mind.

Jacob Howland, a philosophy professor at the University of Tulsa and author of Glaucon’s Fate, dives into the rich themes of Plato’s Republic. He unveils how Socrates aimed to guide Glaucon's moral journey, while intertwining notions of manliness and education. The conversation explores the balance of physical courage and intellectual bravery, urging listeners to grapple with hard questions in today's climate. Plus, discover the relevance of Plato's ideals to our understanding of justice and personal integrity.

Laura Vanderkam, an esteemed author on time management, discusses the surprising gap between perceived and actual busyness. She reveals that many people enjoy more leisure and sleep than they realize. The conversation dives into how creating vivid memories can enrich our lives beyond simply managing time. Vanderkam emphasizes embracing small adventures and making room in our schedules for meaningful experiences. Listeners learn that tracking time can lead to a more memorable existence and that what truly matters are the memories we create, not just the hours we fill.

Adam Makos, author of 'A Higher Call' and 'Spearhead,' dives into the captivating journey of Clarence Smoyer, a top tank gunner in WWII. He shares Clarence's calm bravery during intense battles and his unexpected friendship with enemy tanker Gustav Schaefer. Makos discusses the evolution of tank warfare, emphasizing the human connections forged amidst chaos. Their recent reunion as old men reveals poignant lessons for today's social media generation, urging us to honor the sacrifices of the past.

James Mustich, a seasoned book industry veteran, dives into his creation, "1,000 Books to Read Before You Die." He passionately discusses the importance of book lists while encouraging personal preferences. Mustich highlights surprising genres, including sci-fi and children's literature, showcasing titles that resonate across ages. He also explores the joys of diverse reading and reflects on how literature can fulfill emotional needs, ultimately sharing a tailored list of essential reads for men that emphasizes personal growth and resilience.

Matthew Schrier, author of "The Dawn Prayer," shares his harrowing journey of being captured by Al-Nusra Front in Syria. He discusses the survival tactics he developed during seven months of torture and starvation, emphasizing the power of humor and human connection even in dark times. Schrier also reflects on the precarious nature of trust among captives and guards, and recounts his experience as the first Westerner to escape an Al-Qaeda prison, illustrating the psychological warfare he faced and the clever plans he devised for freedom.

In this engaging discussion, Brad Stulberg and Steve Magness, experts on human performance and the psychology of passion, dissect the complexities of passion. They reveal that passion has both light and dark sides, cautioning against the typical advice to "find your passion." The duo emphasizes the need for a mastery mindset to navigate the delicate balance between obsession and genuine interest, while highlighting the importance of patience, internal motivation, and the acceptance of an unbalanced life for true fulfillment.