Men receive all sorts of messages about being a man. These may focus on physical strength and suppressing emotion. The Art of Manliness podcast offers another perspective. The show promotes whole, healthy, and happy lives. Its guests provide insight into the challenges men face and methods to succeed.
The podcast comes from The Art of Manliness magazine. Host Brett McKay founded the web magazine in 2008. Since then, its readership has grown to more than 10 million views per month.
Episodes begin with the gentle sounds of jazz, as if one has meandered into a bar in the 1920s. Brett discusses action heroes, World War II, and classic male characters. For instance, Cormac McCarthy's The Road inspires men of all ages. It's the story of a father trying to survive with his son in an apocalyptic world. Professor Steven Frye joins Brett to provide insight into the book.
Brett also examines other famous male writers and symbols of masculinity. These include Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, and Aristotle. Their philosophies on humanity and the world offer men ways to live with authenticity. Writer Edith Hall shares how Aristotle's philosophy on "the good life" is relevant 2,000 years after his death. Being virtuous and fostering meaningful relationships are still keys to happiness, Hall says.
The podcast also offers a plethora of advice for today's men. It provides leadership lessons and tips on social skills. The show also emphasizes the power of being a morning workout person. In one episode, Kenneth W. Royce gives suggestions for parents seeking to help their sons. The lessons of manhood start in boyhood, and parents impact how their sons move through the world. Cal Newport offers advice to young men entering college and thinking about careers. He explains how cultivating passions rather than following them leads to fulfilling work. Dr. Tim Wilson specializes in the stories people tell themselves. He offers a scientific technique for redirecting one's life.
The Art of Manliness podcast wants to improve the lives of men everywhere. Replete with profound advice and expert guests, it educates, offers guidance, and inspires. Fans of podcasts like The Daily Stoic may like this one as well. Listeners can hear new episodes weekly.
Episodes