The Art of Manliness

Dr. Meg Jay, a clinical psychologist known for her work with young adults and author of "The Defining Decade," discusses the mental health crisis among twentysomethings. She emphasizes the importance of developing practical skills over relying solely on medications for mental wellness. The conversation addresses the dangers of self-diagnosis, the impact of social media, and how skills like cooking and exercise can enhance well-being. They also explore how pornography affects relationships and the pivotal role of identity capital in personal growth.

In this enlightening conversation, Michael Norton, a Harvard Business School professor and psychologist, explores the significance of everyday rituals in our lives. He explains the vital difference between habits and rituals, emphasizing how the latter enrich our experiences. Michael discusses the emotional weight of family traditions and their role in strengthing bonds, the importance of 'kinkeepers' in families, and how rituals help us cope with uncertainty and grief. He also shares insights on creating personal rituals for enhanced meaning and connection.

Ken Ilgunas, author of *Walden on Wheels*, shares an inspiring journey of tackling student debt through unconventional means. He recounts his adventures working in Alaska, from flipping burgers to being a park ranger, while reflecting on Thoreau's philosophies. Ken discusses hitchhiking across the country, engaging in romantic pursuits, and embracing a minimalist lifestyle living in his van while attending grad school. His insights on personal freedom and self-discovery amidst financial challenges will inspire anyone seeking a meaningful life.

Jake Knapp, a venture capitalist and former Google innovator, discusses his journey to a distraction-free smartphone. After realizing the negative effects of constant connectivity, he eliminated web browsers and email from his device. Jake shares insights on how this shift improved his focus and relationships, revealing the importance of prioritizing deep work over superficial interactions. He also critiques common solutions like Screen Time, advocating for personalized app choices that support emotional well-being and enhance productivity.

Ryan Bush, a systems designer and author of "Become Who You Are," delves into the nuances of happiness and depression. He introduces an intriguing third dimension of happiness—admiration for oneself—through his virtue self-signaling theory. Ryan argues that recognizing personal virtues can enhance happiness and reduce feelings of depression. He discusses the importance of purpose, self-reflection, and living in line with one’s values, offering insights on how actions, not just affirmations, contribute to true self-esteem and well-being.

Scott Walker, a former Scotland Yard detective and hostage negotiation expert, shares riveting insights from his career and his book, "Order Out of Chaos." He explains how to navigate difficult conversations by creating a personal "red center" for emotional clarity. Walker discusses strategic separation in negotiations, stressing the importance of differentiating between the decision-maker and communicator. He also delves into emotional management techniques and the necessity of empathy, offering tools to transform high-stress situations into opportunities for constructive dialogue.

Brent Underwood, owner of the historic Cerro Gordo ghost town, shares his adventurous journey of transforming this abandoned site. He discusses his motivations for escaping the 9-5 grind, tapping into a deeper purpose. Brent unpacks the importance of taking action, understanding historical context, and the dangers of short-term thinking, using lessons from figures like William Mulholland. Through personal anecdotes, he highlights the joys of high-agency living and the fulfilling challenges of restoring a ghost town, offering listeners new perspectives on personal growth.

Marc Zao-Sanders, CEO of filtered.com and author of "Timeboxing: The Power of Doing One Thing at a Time," reveals the transformative productivity method of timeboxing. He explains how setting specific time limits for tasks can enhance focus and reduce anxiety. The conversation dives into practical tips for capturing your to-dos, managing distractions, and turning daily chaos into intention. Zao-Sanders shares personal anecdotes that showcase how timeboxing can also serve as a valuable record of life's moments, helping you reclaim control over your time.

Kieran Setiya, a philosophy professor and author of 'Midlife: A Philosophical Guide,' tackles the real challenges of midlife malaise beyond typical stereotypes. He delves into how societal pressures can evoke feelings of inadequacy, and guides listeners through the philosophy of reframing regrets into opportunities for growth. Setiya emphasizes the importance of finding meaning through personal passions and relationships, encouraging a shift from goal-oriented thinking to valuing the journey itself for greater fulfillment.

James Kaplan, author of "Three Shades of Blue", dives into the lives of jazz legends Miles Davis, John Coltrane, and Bill Evans, the creative force behind the iconic album 'Kind of Blue'. He unpacks their personal struggles and artistic journeys, exploring how their collaboration redefined jazz. Kaplan also sheds light on the era of bebop, the rise of cool jazz, and how addiction shaped the legacies of these music giants. This insightful conversation reveals the profound impact these musicians had on the evolution of jazz music.