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Failure, Solved
7 oktober 2026 · 3 uur 44 min
Fail fast. Fail forward. Fail better. As a society, we’ve turned failure into a slogan to celebrate, but somehow we’re more afraid of it than ever. Lees meer
So what's going on? Most of us say failure is our best teacher, but I doubt many of you have ever walked away from a failure doing a happy dance. IInstead, you probably let the moment rattle around in your head at some ungodly hour, then played it a little safer the next time. Don't worry, you're not the only one.
Today, Drew and I break down why every piece of advice you've ever received about failure has, well… failed you.
We cover why indulging in "failure porn" is such a harmful move and what it actually takes to learn from our mistakes (it's not what you think). We explain the evolutionary reason a rejected email can feel threatening. We tell the story of how a country's inability to admit failure got thousands killed, and of a monk so tormented by his failures that he confessed them for six hours a day. We dive into the three different kinds of failure and why the setback itself matters less than the actions you take after. And we even discuss when quitting is and isn't a failure, and the five-question test that reveals the difference.
Apologies in advance: this episode will not teach you how to avoid failure. On a long enough timeline, the failure rate of everything is 100%. So let's get really great at failing.
Get your free episode guide: https://mrk.mn/failureguide
CHAPTERS
Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction: The Failure to Understand Failure
00:01:15 Chapter 1: The Most Overdone Topic in Self-Help
00:07:39 The Failure Porn Industrial Complex
00:16:06 Why Failure Worship Made Everything Worse
00:41:47 Chapter 2: Why Failure Hurts So Much
01:02:35 The Sociometer Theory: Your Brain's Status-Tracking System
01:14:28 The Ego, Original Sin, and Why You Can't Escape Failure
01:31:57 Chapter 3: When You Define Yourself, You Define Your Failures
02:07:08 Confession, Therapy, and the Technology of Atonement
02:23:4… -
Finding Your Life Path, Solved
2 september 2026 · 4 uur 10 min
You've been told your whole life to explore, keep your options open, try new things. And you've done exactly that. Moved cities, pivoted careers, taken every personality quiz. But here's what nobody warns you about: all that freedom might be the thing keeping you stuck.
This episode digs into a depressed 19th century Danish philosopher who diagnosed our entire modern crisis 180 years before we lived it. We tell the story of Casanova, history's most famous fuckboy, who had more adventures than anyone alive and died completely alone with nothing but 2,000 pages of memories nobody believed. We break down Dan Gilbert's research on why your brain is actually better at justifying your choices than you give it credit for. We walk through Kierkegaard's three stages of commitment, from the aesthetic life of endless options to the point where commitment stops feeling like a choice at all. And we talk about the grief that nobody tells you about when you finally pick one life and let all the others go.
Get your free episode guide: https://solvedpodcast.com/commitment/
CHAPTERS
Chapters Lees meer00:00:00 The Paradox of Too Many Choices
00:05:42 Chapter 1: The Prophet of Too Much
00:08:16 Kierkegaard's Crisis: The Engagement He Couldn't Keep
00:22:26 Anxiety as the Dizziness of Freedom
00:43:30 The Media Environment That Makes Commitment Impossible
01:01:00 Cultural Forces Engineering Indecision
01:11:40 Chapter 2: The Aesthetic Life: Casanova and the Trap of Endless Novelty
01:19:24 Five Predictions Kierkegaard Got Right About Modern Life
01:37:55 Why We're Biologically Wired to Keep Our Options Open
02:18:30 Chapter 3: The Ethical Life: Learning to Choose With Your Eyes Open
02:41:20 The Cold Pool Metaphor: Why Commitment Feels Like Liberation
02:49:28 Self-Concordance: Aligning Decisions With Who You Actually Are
03:14:01 The Grief of Cutting Off Alternative Selves
03:19:17 Chapter 4: The Religious Stage: When Commitment Becomes Absurd
03:30:00 Finding Your Calling: It Chooses You, N… -
How to Get Lucky, Solved
5 augustus 2026 · 3 uur 49 min
Ask most successful people how they got where they are, and the answer is usually some version of "good timing." Everyone else swears they earned it. We're terrible at seeing our own luck clearly, and even worse at realizing how much of it we could create.
In this episode, Drew and I get into why: the psychology that makes us deny luck even exists, and what changes the moment you stop pretending everything is earned.
We start with Warren Buffett - why a man worth tens of billions says the single most important thing that ever happened to him was where and when he was born. Then there's Napoleon, who picked his generals by skipping the résumé and asking one question: "Is he lucky?" And we brought in Annie Duke, a former World Series of Poker champion who’s spent more than a decade studying decision-making, to explain why we keep confusing good decisions with lucky outcomes.
There's also a stretch on survivorship bias that'll make you rethink every success story you've ever heard.
Luck comes in three layers. And the research shows you have far more say over two of them than anyone ever told you.
If you want to take the hand you were dealt and play it better, this episode is for you.
Get your free episode guide: https://solvedpodcast.com/luck/
CHAPTERS:
Chapters Lees meer00:00:00 Will Smith's Dad and the Luck Paradox: When Success Meets Fortune
00:01:58 Chapter 1: What Is Luck?
00:02:23 Why We Avoid Thinking About Luck: The Uncomfortable Truth
00:16:13 The West's Struggle With Luck: From Greek Goddesses to Probability
00:21:05 The Three Types of Luck: Introducing the Sansai Framework
00:36:18 Chapter 2: Heaven Luck: The Birth Lottery You Can't Control
00:40:56 The Norway vs Sierra Leone Thought Experiment: Luck Is Always Relative
00:46:20 The Farmer and the Horse: Good Luck, Bad Luck, Who Knows?
00:54:01 Gratitude as Expanding Your Frame of Reference
01:00:48 The Two Ways to Screw Up Heaven Luck
01:07:23 Chapter 3: Napoleon: The Bullied Boy Who Mastered Earth Luck
01:09:32 Sp… -
How to Build Confidence, Solved
1 juli 2026 · 3 uur 57 min
Confidence isn't something you build. It's what's left over. You've done the pose. Hands on hips, chest out, an affirmation on a sticky note stuck to the mirror. And then you walked into the room feeling exactly the same, or worse. Here's what nobody tells you: the entire concept of confidence you've been sold was invented by an anxious preacher in the 1940s who mistook his own coping mechanism for a universal law. The research is even uglier. Affirmations reliably make insecure people feel less secure. Visualizing success decreases motivation. The most famous confidence technique in history was built on a study of 42 people that the lead author eventually had to abandon. In this episode we trace where it all went wrong, from Norman Vincent Peale to power poses to the self-esteem movement that quietly failed a whole generation. Then we get into what actually works: a discovery made in a room full of snakes, a 2,000-year-old framework that turns out to be empirically correct, and why the sequence runs exactly backwards from everything you've been taught.
Get your free PDF guide: https://solvedpodcast.com/confidence.
CHAPTERS:
Chapters Lees meer00:00:00 CHAPTER 1: Why Confidence Advice Is Backwards
00:07:46 Norman Vincent Peale and positive thinking
00:10:44 The Peale Fallacy
00:16:09 When confidence was a sin
00:27:41 Do affirmations work?
00:31:19 Does visualization work?
00:47:01 CHAPTER 2: How Confidence Is Actually Built
00:53:59 Why confidence generalizes to the rest of your life
01:03:04 Self-efficacy and its four sources
01:09:35 The "Do Something" Principle
01:18:56 Mark's coaching story: lower the stakes
01:32:28 The case for a little delusion
01:40:25 CHAPTER 3: Confidence vs. Competence
01:46:09 Calibration and the Dunning-Kruger effect
01:51:46 Imposter Syndrome and the high-performer trap
02:02:05 The Spotlight Effect
02:04:04 Narcissism: why it gets mistaken for confidence
02:11:20 How to actually tell confidence from narcissism
02:26:56 CHAPTER 4: What the Se… -
How to Change Your Life, Solved
3 juni 2026 · 4 uur 59 min
If you've ever tried to change something about yourself, failed, tried again, and concluded you must just be broken, here's some good news: you're probably not broken. You've just been aiming at the wrong target for years. Who you are is actually a layered system. Most people fail at change because they treat behaviors like permanent traits and traits like behaviors they can flip overnight, spending years aiming at the wrong layer.
In this episode, Drew and I map out the full system. This is the longest and most personal episode we've ever done.
Get the free PDF episode guide: https://solvedpodcast.com/change/
CHAPTERS
Chapters Lees meer00:00:00 Introduction: What Does It Mean to Change?
00:13:18 The Dictionary Study: How 17,953 Words Led to the Big Five
00:49:06 Chapter 2: Why the Myers-Briggs Is Basically a Horoscope for Smart People
01:02:17 The Barnum Effect: Why We Believe Tests That Tell Us Nothing
01:20:52 The Maturity Principle: How Personality Drifts With Age
01:36:08 Chapter 3: Layer Two: Your Adaptations Are Not Who You Are
02:25:55 Why Relationships Are Adaptation Machines
02:37:55 Chapter 4: Layer Three: Why We Don't Do What We Know We Should Do
02:44:06 The Checklist That Saved 1,500 Lives
02:56:57 The Do Something Principle: Start With the Smallest Step
03:04:32 Environmental Design: Make the Right Thing Easier Than the Wrong Thing
03:20:18 Social Pressure, Strong Whys, and the CrossFit Effect
03:44:35 Chapter 5: Quantum Change: The Night Josh Died
03:54:55 Values Collapse: What Actually Changes in a Quantum Change
04:17:55 Chapter 6: Bill Wilson: The Man Who Invented AA (And Still Struggled)
04:32:00 The Messy Middle Nobody Shows You
04:50:27 Should You Even Change at All? The Three Selves
04:57:13 Final Takeaways: Pain Is a Great TeacherCHECK OUT OUR SPONSORS
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Why We Stay in Bad Relationships, Solved
20 mei 2026 · 1 uur 42 min
Why do smart, emotionally aware people stay in relationships that are clearly destroying them? Drew and I dug into the Johnny Depp and Amber Heard marriage, to walk through the seven psychological mechanisms that quietly lock people inside bad relationships and make leaving feel impossible.
If you have ever watched someone you love stay in a relationship that is destroying them, or if you have been that person yourself, this episode will shine a lot of light on what is really going on under the hood.
Get your free episode guide: https://solvedpodcast.com/bad-relationships/
CHAPTERS
Chapters Lees meer00:00:00 Introduction: When Smart People Stay Stuck in Bad Relationships
00:05:05 Meet Johnny Depp: From Kentucky to Captain Jack Sparrow
00:12:44 Meet Amber Heard: Growing Up in Texas and Breaking Into Hollywood
00:14:40 Mechanism #1: Normalization - The Water You Swim In
00:25:11 Mechanism #2: The Identity Trap - Filling the Void
00:40:07 Mechanism #3: The Slot Machine Effect - Addicted to Volatility
00:47:08 The Escalating Violence: From Breaking Things to Breaking Trust
00:49:58 Mechanism #4: Cognitive Dissonance - Rationalizing the Unacceptable
00:59:37 Mechanism #5: The Sunk Cost Fallacy - Throwing Good Years After Bad
01:10:00 Mechanism #6: The Guilt Cage - Blaming Yourself for Everything
01:13:52 Mechanism #7: The Terror of the Void - Learned Helplessness
01:21:38 The Legal Aftermath: When Nobody Wins
01:27:33 Practical Takeaways: How to Escape the Seven Traps
01:39:00 Final Reflections: Compassion for the Trapped⇨ Sign up for my newsletter, Your Next Breakthrough. It will help make you a less awful person: https://go.markmanson.net/cdi1xzha
⇨ Get clarity on what actually matters. Try Purpose, Mark's AI mentor app that learns your patterns, challenges your blind spots, and helps you take action. Get started at https://go.markmanson.net/217i5ys5
FOLLOW MARK
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Twitter: http… -
How to Overcome Anxiety, Solved
6 mei 2026 · 2 uur 10 min
Here's the uncomfortable truth about anxiety: most of what people reach for to fix it was chosen because it feels easy, not because it works. The supplement that went viral on TikTok, the CBD gummy, the glass of wine after a hard week... they range from doing nothing to actively making things worse.
We ranked 17 of the most popular anti-anxiety interventions from the absolute worst to the number one most effective, according to the research. Along the way, we get into why alcohol is the anxiety cure that 2 billion people use that actually creates more anxiety in the long run. We talk about the UGC marketing conspiracy behind the magnesium craze. We break down the difference between harmonious and obsessive anxiety, why your brain is literally doing therapy on itself every night while you sleep (and what happens when you don't let it), and why exercise is essentially practice for being afraid. The pattern that emerges is painfully clear: everything that actually works is a lifestyle change, and everything that doesn't is a quick fix. The real question isn't which intervention is best. It's whether you're willing to be uncomfortable long enough for the right ones to work.
Get your free episode guide: https://solvedpodcast.com/anxiety/
CHAPTERS
Chapters Lees meer00:00:00 Welcome to Solved: Ranking 17 Anti-Anxiety Interventions
00:04:07 What Is Anxiety and Why Does It Exist?
00:07:26 The Causes of Anxiety: Genetics, Age, Trauma, and Existential Dread
00:17:34 The Bullshit Category: Why Alcohol Makes Anxiety Worse
00:26:37 Not Helping, Not Hurting: Magnesium, Journaling, and CBD
00:45:34 Digital Detoxes and Breathwork: Short-Term Relief, Not Long-Term Solutions
00:55:55 The Complicated Truth About Benzodiazepines
00:59:39 Probiotics, Yoga, and Adaptogens: The Maybe Depends Category
01:14:43 SSRIs: Effective But Probably Overprescribed
01:26:00 Psychedelics: Massive Effect Sizes But Still Early Days
01:40:01 The Top Five: Social Connection as Nervous System Regulation
01:41:58 S… -
Your Questions On Manifestation, Confidence, and Getting Over Your Ex, Solved
29 april 2026 · 1 uur 7 min
It's been one year of SOLVED. 20 episodes, 20 million downloads, 3 million YouTube subscribers, and a truly unreasonable number of poop jokes. To celebrate, I sat down with over 200 of your questions and picked the ones that hit the hardest.
We get into why most people fail at quitting addictions (hint: the problem isn't the feelings, it's that you never planned for them). I explain why, if you have ADHD and can't stop procrastinating, you need to treat yourself like a dog that shits on the carpet. We talk about the real science behind manifestation, why it sort of works but not for the reason TikTok thinks it does. I break down the difference between trait confidence and state confidence, and why "build evidence" is only half the equation. We cover how to handle panic attacks, getting over a "perfect" ex (spoiler: they're not perfect, and thinking they are is the problem), the uncomfortable truth about self-love, the difference between a boring relationship and being bored in a relationship, the purpose vs. money question, what FIRE retirees never tell you, and what I'd reincarnate as. Plus some big announcements: we're going back to the mega episode format in June, the PDF guides are returning, and our first topic is going to be how to actually change your life.
CHAPTERS
Chapters Lees meer00:00:00 One-Year Anniversary and Show Announcements
00:04:37 Overcoming Addiction and Relapse
00:08:18 Procrastination and ADHD
00:11:30 The Science of Manifestation
00:16:11 Panic Attacks, Siblings, and Getting Over a "Perfect" Ex
00:20:18 Self-Love, Gratitude, and Religion
00:27:12 Relationships, Purpose, and Money
00:36:07 Maladaptive Daydreaming, Personality, and Growing with Friends
00:39:59 Nomadic Living, FIRE Retirement, Purpose Anxiety, and Reincarnation⇨ Sign up for my newsletter, Your Next Breakthrough. It will help make you a less awful person: https://go.markmanson.net/cdi1xzha
⇨ Get clarity on what actually matters. Try Purpose, Mark's AI mentor app that learns your pat… -
Passion, Solved: Is It Really Worth Pursuing?
15 april 2026 · 2 uur 2 min
Nearly 60% of American workers are checked out at their jobs. Meanwhile, every graduation speech in history tells you to follow your passion and you'll never work a day in your life. So which is it?
In this episode, Drew and I debate both sides. I argue for passion. He argues for practicality. And what we discover along the way is that the whole question is kind of a false dichotomy. We get into the psychology of harmonious vs. obsessive passion (and why one leads to fulfillment while the other led Kurt Cobain to write "I don't have the passion anymore" in his suicide note). We talk survivorship bias, Maslow's hierarchy, and why financial stress literally impairs your ability to think creatively. I share the story of quitting my investment bank job at 24, living on a friend's futon, and knowing within a month that I was never going back. We look at how Jane Goodall took a secretarial job and stumbled into becoming the world's preeminent primatologist. And we land on a phrase I think is way more useful than "follow your passion": develop your passion... because passion isn't something you find, it's something you grow.
Get your free episode guide: https://solvedpodcast.com/passion/
Chapters:
Chapters Lees meer00:00:00 The Great Debate: Passion vs. Pragmatism in Your Career
00:05:04 Round One: The Case for Passion and J.K. Rowling's Story
00:12:38 The Dark Side of Passion: Kurt Cobain and Obsessive Passion
00:23:53 Round Two: Financial Stability as the Foundation for Passion
00:38:47 The Regret Minimization Argument: Why Time Matters More Than Money
01:02:34 Round Three: Developing Passion Through Adjacent Opportunities
01:24:33 Cal Newport's Career Capital: Getting So Good They Can't Ignore You
01:32:34 Round Four: Passion Is Developed, Not Found
01:41:27 The Aptitude Reality Check: When Passion Meets Natural Ability
01:51:47 Finding the Balance: The Best of Both Worlds Approach⇨ Sign up for my newsletter, Your Next Breakthrough. It will help make you a less awful person:…
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Self-Help, Solved
1 april 2026 · 2 uur 2 min
We pulled over 2,600 studies and ranked 19 of the most common self-improvement techniques across three dimensions: research quality, consistency of results, and actual effect size. Then we sorted them into four tiers: legitimately works, works sometimes, probably not helping, and straight up bullshit. Microdosing landed in the bullshit tier. Crystal healing outperformed several "serious" techniques. And the number one most effective strategy is something so stupidly simple it's almost annoying.
We also get into why everything at the bottom of the list shares one thing in common, why the middle of the list is mostly a fancy placebo, and why nearly everything at the top has been around for thousands of years.
Get your free episode guide: https://solvedpodcast.com/self-help/
CHAPTERS
Chapters Lees meer00:00:00 Introduction
00:06:02 Category 4: Bullsh*t
00:06:13 Suppressing Negative Thoughts
00:10:53 Microdosing Psychedelics
00:17:29 Intuitive Decision-Making
00:24:11 Catharsis / Venting Anger
00:27:29 Category 3: Probably Not Helping
00:27:45 Crystal Healing
00:30:11 Willpower / Ego Depletion
00:35:02 Power Posing
00:39:57 Learning Styles
00:41:18 Positive Affirmations
00:44:58 Morning Routines
00:51:37 Category 2: Works Sometimes
00:52:36 Positive Visualization
00:59:59 Energy Healing
01:09:35 Cold Water Immersion for Mental Health
01:16:53 Speed Reading
01:23:50 Category 1: Legitimately Works
01:23:54 Gratitude Interventions
01:29:45 Meditation for Stress/Anxiety
01:33:31 Eat the Frog / Hardest Task First
01:38:42 Bibliotherapy
01:47:30 Behavioral Activation
01:59:19 Conclusion⇨ Sign up for my newsletter, Your Next Breakthrough. It will help make you a less awful person: https://go.markmanson.net/cdi1xzha
⇨ Get clarity on what actually matters. Try Purpose, Mark's AI mentor app that learns your patterns, challenges your blind spots, and helps you take action. Get started at https://go.markmanson.net/217i5ys5
FOLLOW MARK
Mark's IG: https://www.instagram.com/markmanson
Solv… -
Meditation, Solved: Is It Actually Worth It?
18 maart 2026 · 1 uur 21 min
Meditation has been sold to us as a magic pill for so long that the backlash is almost as overblown as the hype. I spent years deep in Buddhist practice, went on retreats, meditated daily — and then slowly discovered that half the gurus evangelizing it were alcoholics, abusers, or running Rolls-Royce-funded cults. Here's what the more careful research actually shows: there are three things meditation does reliably well, and they’re probably not what you've been promised. More importantly, almost everything you've been told about how to do it is wrong — starting with the idea that the goal is to quiet your mind. If your brain turns into a chaotic mess the moment you close your eyes, that's not a failure. That's the whole point.
Get your free episode guide: https://solvedpodcast.com/meditation/
CHAPTERS
Chapters Lees meer00:00:00 Introduction
00:08:15 Skeptic Claim #1: Meditation Is Overhyped
00:22:45 Skeptic Claim #2: "Meditation Isn't for Me"
00:41:36 Meditation Isn't Safe or Helpful for Everyone
00:48:33 Skeptic Claim #3: The New-Agey, "Woo-Woo" Crowd Turns Me Off
01:01:01 A Secular, Grounded Alternative: Meditation Without Metaphysics
01:07:40 Are We Losing Something by Secularizing Meditation?
01:17:35 Conclusion: What Meditation Really Is⇨ Sign up for my newsletter, Your Next Breakthrough. It will help make you a less awful person: https://go.markmanson.net/cdi1xzha
⇨ Get clarity on what actually matters. Try Purpose, Mark's AI mentor app that learns your patterns, challenges your blind spots, and helps you take action. Get started at https://go.markmanson.net/217i5ys5
FOLLOW MARK
Mark's IG: https://www.instagram.com/markmanson
Solved IG: https://www.instagram.com/solvedpodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/markmanson
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markmanson/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@IAmMarkManson -
Focus, Solved
4 maart 2026 · 3 uur 14 min
Focus is one of those things everyone swears they need more of and almost no one is actually addressing correctly. In this episode, we dig into what the science actually says about attention spans (hint: your brain isn't broken, it's just overwhelmed), why the standard advice to "try harder" is probably making things worse, and what's really driving your inability to sit down and get things done. We get into the neuroscience of explore vs. exploit modes, why flow states feel the way they do, and the four hidden triggers behind most focus problems, none of which have anything to do with your phone. Then we get into the practical stuff: environmental design, deep work frameworks, the maker vs. manager schedule, time boxing, batching, and why a dentist appointment in the middle of your morning can ruin your entire day. If you're the kind of person who opens 14 browser tabs, switches between them for 40 minutes, and calls that "working", well, this one's for you.
Get the free guide for this episode: https://solvedpodcast.com/focus/
CHAPTERS
Chapters Lees meer00:00:00 Introduction
00:03:06 The Attention Crisis (Is It Even Real?)
00:21:55 The Exploit–Explore Dilemma
00:29:57 Your Brain on Explore and Exploit Mode
00:43:48 Technology evolved with Focus
00:50:33 The Psychology of Distraction
00:54:06 Trigger 1: Lack of Importance
00:56:24 Trigger 2: Lack of Clarity
01:00:01 Trigger 3: Lack of Calmness
01:02:49 Trigger 4: Lack of Health
01:07:21 What about Willpower?
01:18:50 Flow States and Hyperfocus
01:25:13 Characteristics of flow state
01:37:36 Mental Health and the Clinical Realities of Focus
01:39:30 ADHD
01:41:56 Hyperfocus vs Flow
01:56:27 Environmental Design for Focus
02:01:15 Foundations
02:06:38 Setting Up Your Workspace
02:14:15 Working with others
02:22:49 Temperature, lighting. air quality
02:27:30 Nature exposure
02:29:22 Ritual as a “trigger system”
02:34:39 Productivity Systems
02:53:17 Maker Schedules vs. Manager Schedules
03:00:10 Using Apps for Focus
03:05:29 … -
Romantic Love, Solved
18 februari 2026 · 1 uur 35 min
We put love on trial — literally. Drew and I squared off in a full debate over whether romantic love is overrated. I made the case that love is basically your brain's con man, a neurochemical hijacking designed to make you delusional about deeply flawed people, and that the most intoxicating relationships are often the most toxic. Drew fought back with the evidence that love is the foundation of social infrastructure, physical health, and long-term happiness. By the end, we came to a gentlemen’s agreement: a framework that explains why we're all chasing the wrong kind of love, and what the right kind actually looks like.
CHAPTERS
Chapters Lees meer00:00:00 Introduction
00:02:21 Round 1: Love is the Brain's Conman
00:23:33 Round 2: Love as Social Infrastructure
00:43:48 Round 3: Love and Happiness
01:05:29 Round 4: Why We're Drawn to People Who Hurt Us⇨ Sign up for my newsletter, Your Next Breakthrough. It will help make you a less awful person: https://go.markmanson.net/cdi1xzha
⇨ Get clarity on what actually matters. Try Purpose, Mark's AI mentor app that learns your patterns, challenges your blind spots, and helps you take action. Get started at https://go.markmanson.net/217i5ys5
FOLLOW MARK
Mark's IG: https://www.instagram.com/markmanson
Solved IG: https://www.instagram.com/solvedpodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/markmanson
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markmanson/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@IAmMarkManson -
Dating, Solved: Why Finding the Right Person Feels So Hard
4 februari 2026 · 4 uur 29 min
Most people aren’t bad at dating, they’re just trying to solve the wrong problem. We treat dating like a personality test (“Am I attractive enough? Confident enough?”) when it’s actually a multi-stage process, and each stage punishes completely different mistakes. That one misunderstanding explains why dating feels so confusing, why men and women keep blaming each other, why dating apps feel brutal, and why so much dating advice makes things worse instead of better.
In this episode of Solved, Drew and I break down why modern dating feels so broken, and why it actually isn’t. We dig into the evolutionary psychology behind attraction, why men and women are optimizing for different things, how modern culture and dating apps amplify the worst parts of the system, and the three stages of dating that almost nobody understands. We also talk about confidence, rejection, status, attraction, and why avoiding rejection is often the very thing sabotaging your dating life. If you’ve felt stuck, burned out, or quietly wondering “what the hell is wrong with dating?” — this episode is for you.
Get your free PDF guide: https://solvedpodcast.com/dating
CHAPTERS
Chapters Lees meer00:00:00 Introduction
00:05:12 Why Is Dating So Complicated?
00:11:03 The different challenges men and women face
00:17:18 Facts
00:29:51 What Women Find Attractive
00:38:16 What Men Find Attractive
00:51:27 A Brief History of Courtship & Dating
01:06:10 Modern Dating
01:11:41 A Glimmer of Hope: The emerging offline renaissance
01:21:37 Men's and Women's Dating Advice Ecosystems
01:31:13 Inside the Male Advice Ecosystem
01:44:52 Inside the Female Advice Ecosystem
02:02:07 The Collision: Feedback Loops That Break the Market
02:21:27 The Pre-Dating Phase
02:36:22 Building Confidence
02:37:59 Halo Effect
02:53:20 Conclusion Pre Dating
02:57:48 Meeting People and Getting Dates
03:11:17 Flirting
03:23:15 Reading People
03:29:51 Going on Dates
03:38:39 Trustworthiness
03:47:09 Conversational Skills
03:56:12 Emotional Regu… -
How to Quiet Your Ego (Without Losing Yourself), Solved
15 januari 2026 · 2 uur 31 min
Most people think ego is either something you need to kill off entirely or inflate to take over the world. Both are wrong. In this episode, we dig deep into what ego actually is—how it evolved, why it matters, and how it secretly runs your life without you realizing it.
We hit Freud, Buddhism, David Hume, Jung’s shadow self, and even the Navy SEALs to unpack why your ego isn’t always the enemy—it’s mostly just misunderstood. Then we get into how to quiet your ego without losing your identity, and yes, we talk psychedelics, too. This is everything you were never taught about ego—but should’ve been.
Get your free PDF guide: https://solvedpodcast.com/ego
CHAPTERS
Chapters Lees meer00:00:00 Introduction
00:03:31 What Is the Ego?
00:10:15 The Architecture and Function of the Ego
00:27:15 What is a Healthy Ego?
00:36:14 The Philosophical Divide: Two Cultures, Two Selves
00:49:29 The Ego’s Evolutionary Architecture — How Evolution Built the Self
00:49:33 Why Evolution Invented “I”
00:51:46 The Architecture of the Ego: From Refl ex to Reflection
01:00:33 The First Fall: When Knowing Became Our Burden
01:09:07 Why Evolution Built the Ego
01:13:08 When the Ego Becomes a Tyrant
01:13:20 The Anatomy of Ego Tyranny
01:19:05 Recognizing and Disarming the Inner Dictator
01:47:29 The Quiet Ego — Beyond a Strong Ego
01:47:34 When Quieter Means Stronger
01:50:58 The Science and Structure of the Quiet Ego
01:57:16 Cultivating a Quiet Ego
02:01:08 Benefits of a Quiet Ego
02:04:27 The Chemical Dissolution: Ego Death and Psychedelics
02:23:16 80/20⇨ Sign up for my newsletter, Your Next Breakthrough. It will help make you a less awful person: https://go.markmanson.net/cdi1xzha
⇨ Get clarity on what actually matters. Try Purpose, Mark's AI mentor app that learns your patterns, challenges your blind spots, and helps you take action. Get started at https://go.markmanson.net/217i5ys5
FOLLOW MARK
Mark's IG: https://www.instagram.com/markmanson
Solved IG: https://www.instagram.com/solvedpodcast/… -
How to Set (And Keep) Your Boundaries, Solved
1 januari 2026 · 4 uur 3 min
This is probably the most comprehensive, no-BS breakdown of boundaries you're going to find anywhere. We cover what boundaries actually are (spoiler: it’s not just telling people to f*ck off), why they matter more than you think, and how your entire life—your relationships, mental health, identity, even career—is quietly shaped by whether or not you have them.
By the end of this, you’ll know exactly how to set boundaries, how to enforce them without being a jerk, and how to stop confusing your preferences, rules, and passive-aggressive texts for actual emotional maturity. Plus, we talk about how the internet has totally mangled this concept and what to do instead. If you’ve ever felt burned out, resentful, overwhelmed, or just vaguely annoyed by everyone around you, this is for you.
Get your free PDF guide: https://solvedpodcast.com/boundaries
CHAPTERS
Chapters Lees meer00:00:00 Introduction
00:01:29 Foundations of Boundaries
00:02:05 The Breakdown: What boundaries actually are (and aren’t)
00:04:42 The Spectrum: Porous, Rigid, Healthy
00:09:06 Boundaries vs. Values, Rules, Preferences, and Requests
00:13:32 What happens when boundaries erode?
00:18:46 The Solution: Boundaries as structure and freedom
00:22:57 Boundaries: Freedom Through Limitation
00:25:09 Creativity with Limitations
00:29:15 Mental Health and Limitations
00:38:53 Example
00:42:54 Boundaries and Maturity
00:45:20 Why Boundaries Matter
00:50:00 The Basis of Boundary Formation: Values
00:58:30 Translating Values into Boundaries
01:04:06 The Application: Living Your Valued Boundaries
01:10:14 Why We Fail to Set and Maintain Boundaries
01:11:11 Developmental Origins
01:22:53 Personality and Individual Differences
01:29:48 Emotional Regulation and Mental Health
01:46:06 Types of Boundaries
01:46:53 Physical Boundaries
01:49:28 Emotional Boundaries
01:51:44 Intellectual Boundaries
01:56:02 Time Boundaries
02:00:03 Digital Boundaries
02:09:01 Financial Boundaries
02:12:42 Family boundaries
02:18:52 Friendship Bo… -
Solved, Answers: Finding Purpose, Failing Better, and the AI Future
15 december 2025 · 1 uur 26 min
This one’s different. In this special year-end episode, I answer your questions—from the deep stuff about purpose and motivation, to the uncomfortable realities of change, burnout, failure, and dealing with unsupportive family. I also share the behind-the-scenes chaos of building SOLVED this year, what I learned about making massive, meaningful content, and what’s coming in 2026 (spoiler: boundaries, ego, and maybe some live shows).
This is part personal, part philosophical, and part therapy session disguised as a podcast. If you’ve been wondering what’s next—or why you feel stuck—this one’s for you. See you in 2026.
CHAPTERS
Chapters Lees meer00:00:00 Introduction
00:01:13 Recap of 2025
00:03:42 What if I don't have a single purpose?
00:06:07 Why don't I feel a strong need for purpose?
00:08:32 How do I find purpose when doing things I don't find important?
00:12:34 I'm having issues on getting motivated on one thing
00:19:35 What if my family doesn't support my purpose?
00:23:15 I'm struggling with the idea that purpose must be bigger than yourself
00:26:04 How Mark got Purpose AI to work
00:32:55 Questions from YouTube
00:33:13 How do you change yourself?
00:36:43 Finding meaning after AI takeover
00:44:01 What would a Models rewrite look like today?
00:48:19 Mark's first heartbreak
00:54:31 What would Mark put on Voyager 1?
00:57:35 Self-doubt on something you make
01:02:12 Mark's next book?
01:03:38 Tours around the world
01:05:55 Goals for 2026
01:08:14 Podcast changes for 2026⇨ Sign up for my newsletter, Your Next Breakthrough. It will help make you a less awful person: https://go.markmanson.net/cdi1xzha
⇨ Get clarity on what actually matters. Try Purpose, Mark's AI mentor app that learns your patterns, challenges your blind spots, and helps you take action. Get started at https://go.markmanson.net/217i5ys5
FOLLOW MARK
Mark's IG: https://www.instagram.com/markmanson
Solved IG: https://www.instagram.com/solvedpodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/markmanson
LinkedI… -
Finding Your Purpose, Solved
4 december 2025 · 4 uur 44 min
This is the episode I’ve been waiting to make for a long time. Purpose has been at the core of everything I’ve written and done for over a decade—and in this episode, we go all the way down the rabbit hole. From Viktor Frankl surviving Auschwitz to the myth of “finding your one true purpose,” we break down what purpose really is, why you feel lost without it, and how you can build it into your life.
We also get uncomfortable (in the best way) and talk about the dark side of purpose—how it can burn you out, trap you in toxic ambition, or become an excuse to ruin your life.
And I have a very special announcement to make: Today, I’m launching a new app called Purpose. It’s an AI-powered mentor for personal growth. You talk to it about whatever you’re facing—stress, decisions, conflicts, goals—and it helps you make sense of things. Purpose listens, reflects back what matters most, and turns big challenges into small, actionable steps. The more you use it, the more personalized and helpful it becomes.
CHAPTERS
Chapters Lees meer00:00:00 Introduction
00:01:39 Victor Frankl and Finding Purpose in the Darkness
00:17:19 What Is Purpose?
00:25:44 Myths
00:32:50 Definition
00:34:55 Health
00:39:22 Resilience and Purpose
00:45:34 Philosophical & Historical Perspectives on Purpose
00:52:47 Religion and Purpose
00:58:31 Descartes
01:00:11 Hume
01:04:51 Nietzsche
01:17:43 Kierkegaard
01:22:50 Ernest Becker
01:30:16 Picasso
01:30:40 Recap
01:31:26 The Psychology of Purpose
01:36:38 Relationships
01:45:45 Ego Identity
01:49:19 Social Aspect of Purpose
01:52:32 Religiosity
02:05:14 Going back to Religion
02:08:13 The Four Stages of Life
02:19:41 Trade off to Purpose
02:23:48 Transitioning in Purpose
02:31:33 The Dark Side of Purpose
02:40:38 Purpose App
02:51:36 Burnout
02:54:29 Toxic Purpose
03:07:25 Finding and Cultivating Purpose
03:27:04 Breakdown on finding Purpose
03:36:56 Finding Purpose in Work (or Not)
03:52:55 Parenting
04:01:00 Contributing to your community
04:04:05 Hobbies
04:0… -
Comparing Yourself to Others, Solved
15 november 2025 · 2 uur 4 min
We all compare ourselves to other people—our friends, coworkers, strangers on the internet—and most of the time, it makes us feel like shit. But why do we keep doing it?
In this episode of Solved, we dig into the uncomfortable truth behind social comparison, how it quietly ruins our self-worth, and why most of what we envy in others is a projection of our own insecurity.
We also get into the brutal paradox of success, the toxic loop of chasing status, and how the constant measurement of our lives against others is one of the dumbest things we do as a species. If you’ve ever felt not good enough, or like you’re falling behind, this one’s for you.
Get your free PDF guide: https://solvedpodcast.com/socialcomparison
CHAPTERS
Chapters Lees meer00:00:00 Introduction
00:05:29 Evolutionary Roots
00:16:20 The Emotional Toolkit
00:20:18 Philosophy and Social Comparison
00:23:31 The Buddhist Path
00:24:58 Aristotle
00:34:34 Stoicism
00:36:24 Existentialism
00:40:06 Myths
00:48:37 The Psychology of Social Comparison
00:58:54 Downward Comparison
01:22:19 Digital Technology and Social Comparison
01:44:20 The 80/20 of Managing Comparison
01:57:40 Hidden Costs
01:58:48 Takeaways⇨ Sign up for my newsletter, Your Next Breakthrough. It will help make you a less awful person: https://go.markmanson.net/cdi1xzha
⇨ Get clarity on what actually matters. Try Purpose, Mark's AI mentor app that learns your patterns, challenges your blind spots, and helps you take action. Get started at https://go.markmanson.net/217i5ys5
FOLLOW MARK
Mark's IG: https://www.instagram.com/markmanson
Solved IG: https://www.instagram.com/solvedpodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/markmanson
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markmanson/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@IAmMarkManson -
How to Make Friends as an Adult, Solved
1 november 2025 · 4 uur 37 min
Friendship is the most important thing nobody talks about. From ancient philosophy to game theory, we break down why friendship isn’t just some social nicety—it’s a biological survival strategy. Plus: the modern forces slowly strangling our ability to connect, and exactly what to do about it. You’ll walk away with a clearer sense of what real friendship looks like, how to build it, and how to stop shooting yourself in the foot every time you try.
Get your free PDF guide: https://solvedpodcast.com/friendship
CHAPTERS
Chapters Lees meer00:00:00 Introduction
00:07:52 Friendship: an Evolutionary Puzzle
00:25:45 What Is Friendship?
00:27:11 Friendship in the Great Religious Traditions
00:37:21 Modern Psychology's Definition of Friendship
00:49:02 Your Brain On Friendship
01:03:34 The Neurobiology of Connection
01:22:48 Health Benefits of Friendship
01:33:11 How to Make and Maintain Friendships
01:35:19 Proximity and Repeated Contact and Reciprocal Disclosure
01:53:51 Time investment (quantity and cadence)
01:58:15 Evidence-Based Strategies for Making Friends
02:07:46 Examples Of Making Friends
02:26:50 How Friendship Changes Across the Lifespan
02:54:18 Gender Dynamics in Friendships
03:09:39 Can Men And Women Be Friends?
03:16:39 Toxic Friendships
03:17:41 Competitive Friendship
03:21:18 Codependency
03:34:45 Why It's So Hard to Make Friends These Days
03:35:48 External Headwinds: Why Getting Together Is Hard
03:53:18 Internal Frictions: Why Staying Equal Feels Impossible
04:02:45 Technology's Double-Edged Impact on Human Connection
04:11:19 Mark's LA Story
04:20:21 The 80/20 of Friendship
04:30:33 The Trade-Offs of Friendship⇨ Sign up for my newsletter, Your Next Breakthrough. It will help make you a less awful person: https://go.markmanson.net/cdi1xzha
⇨ Get clarity on what actually matters. Try Purpose, Mark's AI mentor app that learns your patterns, challenges your blind spots, and helps you take action. Get started at https://go.markmanson.net/217i5ys5
FOLLOW MARK
Mark'… -
Stoicism (ft. Ryan Holiday), Solved
15 oktober 2025 · 2 uur 53 min
What does it actually mean to live like a Stoic? In this wide-ranging conversation with bestselling author and modern Stoicism evangelist Ryan Holiday, we unpack the origins of Stoic philosophy, why it exploded during turbulent times in ancient Greece and Rome, and how its principles—like courage, temperance, justice, and wisdom—still apply in a world filled with chaos, anxiety, and uncertainty. From shipwrecked merchants to emperors journaling their fears, this episode explores why some of the most powerful figures in history turned to Stoicism not just for answers—but for survival.
We also dig into how Stoicism overlaps with modern psychology, why it’s gaining traction among young men, and whether its rising popularity is being misunderstood or misused. If you’ve ever wondered whether Stoicism means being emotionless, if it’s compatible with ambition, or if it actually makes you a better person, this episode is your one-stop masterclass.
Get your free PDF guide: https://solvedpodcast.com/stoicism
⇨ Order Ryan Holiday’s new book, Wisdom Takes Work: https://www.amazon.com/Wisdom-Takes-Work-Repeat-Virtues/dp/0593191730
CHAPTERS
Chapters Lees meer00:00:00 Introduction
00:02:49 Setting the Scene: Ancient Greece After Alexander
00:06:44 The Story of Zeno: Founder of Stoicism
00:13:58 The Four Stoic Virtues
00:44:20 Virtue 1: Courage
00:53:17 Virtue 2: Temperance (Discipline)
01:05:01 Virtue 3: Justice
01:08:51 Virtue 4: Wisdom
01:25:51 Roman Conquest and the Spread of Stoicism
01:33:10 Cato the Younger: The Stoic Martyr
01:39:06 Seneca: The Conflicted Philosopher
01:55:50 Epictetus: The Slave Philosopher
02:07:28 Marcus Aurelius: The Philosopher Emperor
02:20:18 Stoicism Through History
02:32:45 Stoicism and Modern Psychology
02:41:09 The Modern Stoicism Revival
02:50:06 Final Thoughts and Recommendations⇨ Sign up for my newsletter, Your Next Breakthrough. It will help make you a less awful person: https://go.markmanson.net/cdi1xzha
⇨ Get clarity on what actually matters. T… -
How to Become Resilient, Solved
1 oktober 2025 · 3 uur 27 min
Resilience isn’t about pretending you’re fine or never feeling pain—it’s about learning how to act in your best interest despite the pain. In this episode of Solved, we dive deep into the science, psychology, and real-life examples of resilience—from Ernest Shackleton’s crew surviving two years stranded in Antarctica to my own slightly insane decision to run an endurance race with basically no training. Spoiler: I didn’t die.
We cover it all: the biology of resilience, why some people are “dandelions” and thrive anywhere while others are “orchids” who need the right environment, the mindsets that let you push through hardship without losing your mind, and why humor and community might secretly be your best survival tools. And of course, we deliver the real, practical, evidence-based strategies you can actually apply when life inevitably decides to kick you in the teeth.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, stuck, or like you can’t take one more setback, this episode is for you. And if you’re one of those psychos who enjoys doing hard sh*t just to see what you’re made of… well, you’ll feel right at home here.
Get your free PDF guide: https://solvedpodcast.com/resilience
CHAPTERS
Chapters Lees meer00:00:00 Introduction
00:04:44 Reframing Resilience — Definitions & Misconceptions
00:13:11 The Word That Started It All
00:16:30 Bounce Forward, Not Back
00:23:50 Developmental and Biological Foundations of Resilience
00:29:26 The Evolutionary Puzzle
00:38:54 Biological & Physiological Foundations
00:44:45 Training Your Brain to Be More Resilient
00:48:43 The HPA Axis: Our Central Stress Response System
00:51:19 Heart Rate Variability: The Resilience Rhythm
00:54:32 Physiological Interventions
01:00:07 Gut-Brain Axis
01:17:17 Psychological, Philosophical & Evidence-Based Frameworks
01:20:19 The 5 Mindsets of Resilience
01:21:46 Mindset #1: Anything Is Possible
01:38:22 Mindset #2: Stories Are Just Stories
01:44:16 MIndset #3: Focus on What You Control
01:58:55 Mindset #4: Make It Fun… -
How to Let Go of Your Shame, Solved
1 september 2025 · 3 uur 41 min
Chances are, there’s something in your life you feel deeply ashamed about—something you’ve never told anyone, something you can’t even admit to yourself. In this episode, we go deep into the emotion we all experience but almost no one wants to talk about: shame. Where it comes from, why it’s so powerful, how it screws up our lives—and more importantly, how to deal with it.
We cover the biology of shame, the psychology, the evolutionary roots, and how modern life (especially the internet) completely messes with our shame systems. We talk about healthy vs. toxic shame, how it shows up in addiction, relationships, perfectionism, and self-sabotage, and why most of us either try to hide from it or end up being controlled by it. You’ll also hear from members of my team about how shame shaped their lives in surprising ways.
As always, this episode is brutally honest, deeply researched, and sprinkled with a few bad jokes. But more than anything, I hope it gives you the awareness—and the tools—to start facing whatever it is you’ve been avoiding. Because you can’t outrun your shame. But you can learn to live with it.
Get your free PDF guide: https://solvedpodcast.com/shame
CHAPTERS
Chapters Lees meer00:00:00 Introduction
00:04:35 Shame's Hidden Architecture
00:14:38 Key Definitions
00:18:32 Distinguishing Shame from Guilt
00:20:49 State Shame vs. Trait Shame
00:21:47 Shame vs. Embarrassment and Humiliation
00:24:03 Shame, Trauma, and their Interrelationship
00:25:14 The Neurobiology of Shame
00:29:56 The Shame Spiral
00:36:04 The Learning Paradox of Shame
00:44:12 The Shame Compass
00:47:33 Personal Experiences with Shame
00:49:21 Workaholism as a Coping Mechanism
00:59:13 The Allure of Shamelessness
01:01:15 Individual, Familial, & Cultural Sources of Shame
01:11:05 Geographical Impact on Shame
01:13:08 Cultural Values and Shame
01:14:35 How the Greater Culture Shapes Shame
01:26:12 Digital Technology & Shame 2.0
01:28:02 The Digital Divide
01:31:05 The Relationship Between Techn… -
How To Finally Let Yourself Be Happy, Solved
1 augustus 2025 · 3 uur 18 min
Everyone’s obsessed with being happy—but what if that obsession is the very thing making us miserable? Drew and I explore what actually makes us feel good—and why most of us are chasing it in all the wrong ways.
We unpack what philosophers like Aristotle and the Buddha got right thousands of years ago—and how modern science is just now catching up. We talk about hedonic vs. eudaimonic happiness, why more money and status don’t necessarily move the needle, and why most self-help advice completely misses the point. Happiness isn’t something you get. It’s a side effect of doing the right things for the right reasons.
So, if you're tired of chasing "more" and ready to actually feel a little less miserable, this one’s for you.
Get your free PDF guide: https://solvedpodcast.com/happiness
CHAPTERS
Chapters Lees meer00:00:00 Introduction
00:01:42 Is Happiness the Right Goal?
00:11:22 The Origins of Human Happiness
00:11:44 Hedonia vs Eudaimonia
00:15:51 Epicureanism
00:24:00 Eastern Perspectives
00:27:55 Modern Happiness Research
00:30:10 The WEIRD Problem: When Happiness Research Goes West
00:41:27 The Three Components of Happiness
00:47:24 Hedonic Adaptation
01:00:34 What Does—and Doesn't—Make Us Happy
01:01:16 Drugs and Alcohol
01:08:03 Sex
01:15:49 Money
01:23:50 Fame and Status
01:34:40 Physical Attractiveness
01:38:06 Geography and Environment
01:40:31 Love and Relationships
01:41:59 Friendships
01:44:44 Having Children
01:49:50 The Experiencing vs. Remembering Self
01:53:33 Baseline vs. Circumstantial vs. Intentional Happiness – Where to Focus
01:54:15 Genetics
02:00:30 Circumstances
02:02:56 Intentional Actions
02:06:54 Relationships
02:11:31 Gratitude
02:13:53 Altruism
02:19:27 Experiences vs. Stuff
02:22:52 Implementing Intentional Happiness
02:25:02 Chapter 6: Don't Pursue Happiness; Remove Unhappiness
02:29:45 Social Comparison
02:32:10 Maximizers vs. Satisficers
02:34:40 How Happiness Changes Across the Lifespan
02:52:24 Happiness Myths
03:05:28 The 80/20 Guide to Hap… -
How to Manage Your Emotions, Solved
1 juli 2025 · 4 uur 19 min
What are emotions? Why do we feel anything at all? And more importantly — can we actually get better at feeling?
In this episode, Drew and I dive headfirst into what might be the hardest question in all of psychology: what the actual f**k are emotions? We break down the biology, neuroscience, evolution, culture, and even language that shape how we feel — and why we often don’t understand what the hell is going on inside us. From ancient philosophy to brain scans, this is a deep (and occasionally weird) look into the emotional chaos that makes us human.
We unpack everything from the origins of emotional intelligence (spoiler: it might be BS) to the science of emotional regulation, attachment styles, and the sneaky ways your culture wires your emotional defaults. Along the way, we explore why some relationships make you feel like a better person while others drain the life out of you, and how trauma, genetics, and childhood with your ability to keep it together.
But this episode isn’t just about understanding emotions — it’s about learning how to work with them. And we give you a full emotional toolkit: a set of evidence-based tools to help you manage your emotions, build better relationships, feel more motivated, and yes — even feel more confident in yourself in the process.
Get your free PDF guide: https://solvedpodcast.com/emotions
CHAPTERS
Chapters Lees meer00:00:00 Introduction
00:04:47 What Are Emotions?
00:14:04 The Emotional Brain
00:22:03 Neurotransmitters
00:34:25 Evolution of Emotions
00:39:53 How Life Experiences Shape Emotional Regulation
00:48:41 Conclusion on What are Emotions
00:49:45 How Culture Influences Our Emotions
00:55:44 Vietnam Bike Story
01:00:05 Your Culture Trains You to Want Certain Feelings
01:06:00 Culture Decides Whether Suppression is a Superpower or a Liability
01:07:56 Paradox of Emotional Conformity
01:16:36 How Language Shapes What You Feel
01:29:23 Emotional Complexity
01:36:25 Your Emotions Are Social Currency
01:43:00 Conclusion to Cul… -
How to Stop Procrastinating, Solved
1 juni 2025 · 4 uur 38 min
From Plato and Aristotle to Freud and modern research, we break down why we delay the things that matter most—and how to actually stop. This isn't a “just set a timer” productivity talk. We’re diving deep into shame, identity, perfectionism, culture, and why procrastination is ultimately a *skill issue*, not a moral failure.
We cover things like: How humans have thought about putting things off for over 2000 years, the real reason you avoid the most important tasks in your life, why “I work better under pressure” is (usually) BS, why self-compassion is actually more motivating than guilt, tons of practical, research-backed strategies you can start using todayAnd much, much, much more.
Get your free PDF guide: https://solvedpodcast.com/procrastination
CHAPTERS
Chapters Lees meer00:00:00 Introduction
00:01:05 Episode Roadmap
00:08:20 What exactly is procrastination?
00:15:50 Plato's Thoughts on Procrastination
00:24:07 The Buddhist & Confucian Views on Procrastination
00:26:19 Aristotle's Take on Procrastination
00:33:50 Christianity and Procrastination
00:46:53 Self-Compassion and Procrastination
00:58:45 The Reformation and Procrastination
01:04:25 Freud's Influence on Psychology
01:06:40 Pleasure Principle and Reality Principle
01:08:13 Id, Ego, and Superego
01:10:26 Defense Mechanisms
01:17:20 Adopting Habits as Identity
01:23:05 The Influence of Childhood and Parenting on Procrastination
01:33:42 Behaviorism
01:41:21 Environmental Design
01:46:10 Thriving Under Pressure: A Critique
01:52:10 Expectation, Pressure, and Procrastination
01:54:06 Critique of Behaviorism
01:59:20 Time Management
02:07:33 Knowledge vs Emotion in Procrastination
02:16:43 Mark and Drew's Personal Productivity Systems
02:20:37 Deep Work and Task Management
02:23:12 Productivity System for ADHD
02:29:26 Productive Procrastination
02:34:22 Importance of Task Completion
02:36:51 Existentialism and Purpose
02:44:21 Purpose and Motivation
02:53:40 Temporal Motivation Theory
02:57:39 Limitations of Tem… -
How to Find and Live by Your Values, Solved
1 mei 2025 · 4 uur 1 min
Welcome to the first episode of the Solved Podcast. Today, we are solving your values.
Over eight years ago, I wrote The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck—a book that, underneath all the swearing and irreverence, was really about one thing: values. What do you care about? What’s actually worth your time, your energy, your life?
So in this kickoff episode of SOLVED, Drew and I are going deep into why your values are the foundation of everything—your happiness, your mental health, your relationships, your sense of meaning—and why so many of us today feel so lost.
We break down the difference between chasing cheap dopamine hits and building real fulfillment, why not all values are created equal, how to figure out what your true values are, how to change your values, how to start living out your values more fully, and how values silently shape your decisions and relationships every day. If you’ve ever felt stuck, directionless, or like you’re living someone else’s life, this episode is the wake-up call you need. It’s time to stop drifting through life and start giving a fck about the right things. Forget the rest. Welcome to SOLVED.
Get your free PDF guide: https://solvedpodcast.com/values
CHAPTERS
Chapters Lees meer00:00:00 Welcome to SOLVED
00:09:31 What are Values?
00:10:26 Characteristics of Values
00:14:23 Values vs. Psychological Needs vs. Preferences
00:23:06 Schwartz's Values Wheel
00:30:36 Instrumental and Terminal Values
00:32:15 Hierarchy of Values
00:38:35 Values Conflict
00:42:35 Carol Ryff's Six Dimensions of Psychological Well-being
00:57:01 Aristotle's Golden Mean as Virtue
01:05:01 Values and Your Relationships
01:22:56 The Clash of Values in Relationships
01:30:29 Identifying and Navigating Values in Relationships
01:34:40 Understanding Compatibility Through Values
01:37:25 Where Do Values Come From?
01:38:20 Margaret Mead's Cultural Relativism
01:47:55 Mary Douglas's and the Grid-Group Framework
01:56:20 Jonathan Haidt's Moral Foundations Theory
02:09:26 The A… -
The Last Podcast
9 april 2025 · 23 min
New podcast launches May 1st! We'll be releasing on this same feed, so all you have to do is stay subscribed to this channel and you'll get all the new episodes as they come out.
***
After more than 70 episodes and 30 million downloads, I’ve decided to shut down The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck Podcast. Yeah, I know—sounds a little crazy. But the truth is, I wasn’t having fun anymore. The guest treadmill, the pressure to play nice, the temptation to chase clicks instead of meaning—it all started to feel fake. So, I’m pulling the plug.
BUT—I’m not going away. I’m launching something new. It’s called Solved—a no-ads, no-guests, deep-dive podcast where each episode tackles one major life topic and breaks it down thoroughly. Think: values, emotions, procrastination—done right, from every angle, with real research and clear implementation. It’s the podcast I wish already existed. So I’m making it. First episode drops May 1 st!
Sign up for my newsletter, Your Next Breakthrough. It will help make you a less awful person: https://markmanson.net/breakthrough
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https://instagram.com/markmanson/
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Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Lees meer -
How to Find the Mindsets that Work For You (ft. Derek Sivers)
2 april 2025 · 1 uur 28 min
I’ve got a special episode for you today. I sat down in person with my longtime friend and first-ever podcast guest, Derek Sivers. We haven’t recorded live before, and honestly, it shows—in the best way. It’s raw, weird, and filled with the kind of conversations we usually when we’re just hanging out together. Lees meer
We dig into Derek’s new book, Useful, Not True, and the big idea behind it: that our beliefs don’t need to be true to be helpful. That spins off into everything from remixing creative influences (metal + Dixieland jazz, anyone?) to why most podcasts—including mine—have gotten painfully predictable. We talk artistic reinvention, Bob Dylan, Bowie, Miles Davis, why most “thought leaders” are just regurgitating each other’s ideas, and why I'm ending the podcast as you know it—and what’s next!
We also dive into the deeper stuff: the emotional power of belief, authenticity vs. performative vulnerability, therapy culture, and why sometimes the most liberating thing you can do is reject what everyone else thinks is necessary—relationships, kids, all of it.
This was one of the most honest, meandering, and creatively energizing conversations I’ve had in a while. If you’re into big questions, unconventional ideas, and the occasional musical metaphor, this one’s for you.
Derek’s new book- Useful, Not True: https://www.amazon.com/Useful-Not-True-Derek-Sivers-ebook/dp/B0D86K4XF5
CHAPTERS
Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction: A Special Live Recording with Derek Sivers
00:01:03 Finding Ideas: Chinese Dictionaries and Creative Remixing
00:03:52 The Miles Davis Principle: Why Success Means It's Time to Stop
00:05:59 The London Scene vs. The Welsh Countryside
00:07:49 Mark's Podcast Pivot: Breaking Out of the Interview Format
00:06:50 The Bookshelf Problem: Conformity in Podcasting
00:16:20 Introducing Useful, Not True: The Core Concept
00:20:09 Why All That Really Matters Are Your Actions
00:32:31 Religion as Actions, Not Beliefs
00:27:53 The Other Side of the River: Perspect… -
How to Change Your Mind Without Losing Yourself
26 maart 2025 · 47 min
In this episode, Drew and I dive into some of the biggest beliefs we’ve shifted over the years—and what it actually looks like to change your mind. Lees meer
We talk about Drew’s evolving views on religion, why I’m way less convinced that people are as changeable as we like to believe, and why I think trauma might be getting a little too much airtime in the self-help world.
We also get into the loneliness epidemic, the quiet power of community, and why so much of “personal growth” isn’t about becoming someone new—it’s about learning to work with who you already are.
Leave a comment below about what you’ve changed your mind about—and enjoy.
CHAPTERS
Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction: 72 Episodes and the Work Behind It
00:02:00 Why We Need to Change Our Minds More Often
00:03:14 Drew's Shifting View on Religion
00:04:33 The New Atheism Movement and Its Limitations
00:05:44 Religion's Benefits: Community, Service, and Local Focus
00:06:43 The Dogma Dilemma: Can You Have the Good Without the Bad?
00:13:06 The Feature Is the Bug: Why Religion Works So Well
00:17:54 Mark's Big Mind Change: People Are Less Malleable Than We Think
00:18:53 The Twin Studies and What They Revealed
00:21:06 What Actually Changes: Attitude, Not Identity
00:26:45 The Self-Acceptance Paradox
00:24:47 It's a Skill Issue, Not a Personality Issue
00:26:15 The Dangerous Desire to Become a New Person
00:30:41 Mark's Contrarian Take: Trauma Is Overrated
00:33:24 The Trauma Narrative as Cop-Out
00:35:18 Resilience: The Underrated Human Trait
00:37:55 Drew's Contrarian Take: Optimism About the Future
00:39:35 The Data on Human Progress
00:43:17 Climate Change and the Solutions-Create-Problems Cycle
00:46:35 Closing Wisdom: Keep an Open Mind⇨ Sign up for my newsletter, Your Next Breakthrough. It will help make you a less awful person: https://markmanson.net/breakthrough
⇨ Get clarity on what actually matters. Try Purpose, Mark's AI mentor app that learns your patterns, challenges your blind spots, an…
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Lessons on Money, Success, and Fulfillment You Need to Hear (ft. Lewis Howes)
19 maart 2025 · 1 uur 14 min
Lewis Howes is one of the most successful podcasters of all time—12 years, nearly 1,800 episodes, and countless interviews with world-class performers. But what’s even more interesting is how his definition of success has evolved over the years. In this conversation, Lewis opens up about shifting from a hyper-competitive, “be number one” mentality to a more collaborative, impact-driven approach. Lees meer
We also dive into emotional regulation, the surprising ways our relationship with money affects our lives, and why most people either idolize or demonize wealth. Oh, and Lewis casually mentions he’s training to compete in the Olympics in his 40s. No big deal. This episode is packed with insights on what it really means to live a fulfilling, abundant life—without losing your mind in the process.
Lewis's new book, Make Money Easy: https://www.amazon.com/Make-Money-Easy-Financial-Freedom/dp/1401993931
Lewis's podcast, The School of Greatness: https://lewishowes.com/sogpodcast/
CHAPTERS
Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction and 12 Years of Podcasting
00:01:03 Redefining Greatness: From Competition to Collaboration
00:03:35 The Jealousy Trap and Learning to Celebrate Others
00:04:49 When Being Number One Isn't Enough
00:10:24 The School of Greatness: Creating Your Own Therapy
00:12:07 From Hypercompetitive Athlete to Emotionally Aware Human
00:13:51 Vision and Spatial Awareness: The Athletic Edge That Translates
00:16:07 Treating Life Like Sports: Coaches, Seasons, and Feedback
00:17:40 Greatness 101: The Essential Curriculum
00:18:53 Emotional Regulation: Healing Childhood Wounds
00:22:13 Gratitude and Generosity: The Gateway to Flourishing
00:25:15 The Money Book Nobody Else Wrote
00:26:48 Money Wounds and Money Stories
00:29:22 If Money Walked Through the Door: The Revealing Exercise
00:31:09 Growing Up With Money: Downplaying Success to Fit In
00:36:15 Why We Attach So Much Emotion to Money
00:37:28 Money and Self-Worth: The Dangerous Connection
00:38:52 Mark's Healthy Relati… -
Mastering Resilience, AI’s Unstoppable Rise, and Can We Truly Change?
12 maart 2025 · 1 uur 3 min
Resilience isn’t just about gritting your teeth and enduring pain—it’s about managing the stories you tell yourself. In this episode, I break down why most people get resilience wrong and how mastering the “second arrow” is the real key to bouncing back. We dive into post-traumatic growth, why caring about something bigger than yourself makes you stronger, and how focusing on what you can control changes everything. Lees meer
We also talk about AI—how it’s not here to save or destroy humanity, but it is going to change everything. We look at how AI is already transforming creative and knowledge-based jobs, why you should be using it right now, and what you can do to stay ahead. Plus, we tackle the ultimate question: Can people change? That three-word question is lot more complex than it seems. Check it out.
CHAPTERS
Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction: Have You Felt the AGI?
00:03:31 The Fuck of the Week: What Resilience Really Is
00:07:09 The Problem With Mental Health Apps
00:10:40 Five Ways to Build Real Resilience
00:19:56 The Novelty Addiction and Showing Up for Small Things
00:24:06 Brilliant or Bullshit: Will AI Doom or Save Humanity?
00:29:42 AI as a New Medium: Interactive Novels and Beyond
00:32:38 How to Actually Use AI: The Quality Input Problem
00:38:06 The New Scarcity: Where Humans Still Matter
00:43:50 Reader Question: Can People Change?
00:46:36 The Prerequisites for Change and the Codependency Trap
00:51:18 What Actually Counts as Change?
00:55:50 Personal Changes and the Slow Grind⇨ Sign up for my newsletter, Your Next Breakthrough. It will help make you a less awful person: https://markmanson.net/breakthrough
⇨ Get clarity on what actually matters. Try Purpose, Mark's AI mentor app that learns your patterns, challenges your blind spots, and helps you take action. Get started at https://bit.ly/4w46FMH
FOLLOW MARK
Mark's IG: https://www.instagram.com/markmanson
Solved IG: https://www.instagram.com/solvedpodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com… -
How to Stop Letting Fear Control Your Life (ft. Dr. Julie Smith)
5 maart 2025 · 1 uur
You know that voice in your head that loves to tell you that you suck? Yeah, that one. The one that compares you to everyone on Instagram, tells you you’re a failure for eating cereal at 11 p.m., and insists you’ll never get your life together. Well, today, we’re calling in a professional to deal with that assh*le. Dr. Julie Smith is a clinical psychologist and viral mental health educator who’s built a massive following by actually making psychology make sense. In this episode, she breaks down how to quiet that inner critic, stop getting crushed by comparison, and reframe your self-loathing into something a little more useful—like self-respect. Lees meer
We also dig into what it’s like to become internet famous when you’re an introvert, why emotions are not facts (even though they feel like they are), and how to stop letting social media, your parents, and your own bullsh*t beliefs define your worth. Whether you’re stuck in a shame spiral, wondering why life feels pointless, or just trying to figure out how to not hate yourself so much, this episode is for you.
Dr. Julie’s new book, Open When: A Companion for Life's Twists & Turns: https://www.amazon.com/Open-When-Companion-Lifes-Twists-ebook/dp/B0D3CB1XX6
Dr. Julie’s first book, Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before?: https://www.amazon.com/Why-Nobody-Told-This-Before-ebook/dp/B0983L6T32
Follow Dr. Julie:
https://www.youtube.com/@DrJulie
https://www.instagram.com/drjulie
https://www.tiktok.com/@drjulie
https://x.com/drjuliesmith
https://www.facebook.com/DrJulieSmith/
CHAPTERS
Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction: That Voice in Your Head
00:01:13 The Social Media Paradox: Spreading Mental Health Advice Online
00:03:21 From Therapy Room to TikTok: An Accidental Journey
00:04:55 Internet Fame and the Introvert's Dilemma
00:07:01 Having Your Own Back: The Inner Coach Technique
00:09:50 The Investment Portfolio Approach to Identity
00:12:40 Social Comparison: A Strength Turned Upside Down
00:17:47 The Values Exercise: Findin… -
How to Fear Less, Spark More Creativity, and Choose Better Problems in Life
26 februari 2025 · 53 min
Fear of failure isn’t really about failure—it’s about what failure means to us. We’re not scared of messing up; we’re scared of being judged, embarrassed, or proving our worst insecurities right. But the people who actually succeed at anything are the ones willing to suck at it long enough to get good. Today, we break down why failure feels so terrifying, how social comparison messes with our heads, and why the loudest critics are usually the ones who’ve never done a damn thing themselves. Tune in for some practical tips on overcoming all of this. Lees meer
We also dig into the science of why boredom can spark better ideas, why our addiction to content might be making us less creative, and whether we should all do a digital detox before our brains turn into overstimulated mush. Finally, we wrap things up with a simple but profound question: If life is just an endless series of trade-offs, what are the best problems to have? Because problems never go away—you just get to level up to better ones.
The Creative Benefits of Boredom: https://hbr.org/2014/09/the-creative-benefits-of-boredom
CHAPTERS
Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction: The Morning Workout Experiment That Failed
00:02:39 The Fuck of the Week: Fear of Failure
00:03:47 What You're Really Afraid Of: It's Not the Failure Itself
00:05:25 The Spotlight Effect: Nobody's Watching You Like You Think
00:09:35 Reframing Failure: You Have to Suck at Something First
00:11:43 Why Fear Is Really About Relationships
00:13:49 The Paradox of Cringe: Growth Requires Embarrassment
00:16:02 Five Tactics to Conquer Fear: Exposure Therapy and Beyond
00:22:43 Building an Identity Around Doing Hard Things
00:25:18 The Key Takeaway: Focus on Process Over Outcome
00:27:27 Brilliant Bullshit: Does Boredom Make You More Creative?
00:35:07 The Creativity Crisis: Why Art Feels Less Innovative
00:39:39 Practical Tips: How to Use Boredom to Boost Creativity
00:42:18 Reader Question: What Are the Best and Worst Problems to Have?
00:48:22 The Red Pap… -
The Unexpected Truth About Sex, Drugs, and Rock & Roll (ft. Randy Blythe)
19 februari 2025 · 1 uur 16 min
Life in a rock band isn’t all sold-out shows and backstage parties—it’s a high-pressure, all-consuming commitment that tests friendships, sanity, and survival. In this episode, I sit down with Randy Blythe, legendary frontman of Lamb of God, to pull back the curtain on what it really takes to last in the music industry. From the brutal realities of band relationships to the myths of the rockstar lifestyle, Randy shares unfiltered insights on creativity, addiction, and personal transformation. Lees meer
We also dig into his journey to sobriety, the impact of punk rock’s DIY ethos, and the surprising ways today’s generation is redefining rebellion. Whether you’re a musician, a fan, or just someone navigating your own challenges, this conversation is a raw and inspiring look at resilience, reinvention, and the power of staying true to yourself.
Randy’s books:
Just Beyond the Light: https://www.amazon.com/Just-Beyond-Light-Making-Inside-ebook/dp/B0DJHMN7C1
Dark Days: https://www.amazon.com/Dark-Days-D-Randall-Blythe/dp/0306825090
CHAPTERS
Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction: From Punk Rock to Prison
00:02:15 The Reality of Band Relationships
00:10:50 Discovering Punk Rock: The Sex Pistols Moment
00:15:19 The Cultural Evolution of Rebellion
00:19:00 Why Artists and Musicians Struggle with Addiction
00:22:30 Kurt Cobain and the Romanticism of Pain
00:30:17 October 17th, 2010: Randy's Last Day Drinking
00:37:04 The Brutal Reality of Getting Sober
00:25:44 Creativity After Sobriety
00:42:16 Balancing Two Extremes: Optimism and Nihilism
00:47:45 Why Metal Heads Are Actually the Nicest People
00:51:44 Arrested in Prague: The Nightmare Begins
00:55:42 37 Days in Pankrac Prison
01:00:26 The Artist's Mind in Crisis
00:58:34 Why Randy Went Back to Face Trial
01:06:27 Lessons from Prison: Perspective and Gratitude
01:10:13 Advice for Young Creatives: Practice and Don't Give a Fuck
01:12:51 The Reality Check: Beer Bottles and Middle Fingers⇨ Sign up for my newsletter, Your Next Breakthr…
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Snake Oil or Self-Help?, Minimalism’s Real Value, and Atheists Who Go to Church
12 februari 2025 · 52 min
Self-help is supposed to, you know, help. But what if, sometimes, it actually makes things worse? In this episode, we take a hard look at the self-improvement industry that promises transformation but often sells little more than feel-good illusions. From outdated advice that preys on your insecurities to the dopamine hit of "life-changing" content that changes nothing, we break down why self-help often fails the people who need it most. Lees meer
Along with unpacking the biggest traps of self-improvement, Drew and I also tackle whether or not minimalism was just an aesthetic rebellion against our parents’ McMansion dreams. We were both once staunch minimalists and we look back on what we learned and what principles still apply to our lives today. We wrap up with a listener question about the ethics of going to church if you’re an atheist. It’s another grab bag episode full of rabbit holes. Check it out.
CHAPTERS
Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction: The Chair Situation and What's Coming
00:00:31 Five Problems with the Self-Help Industry
00:03:07 Bad to Okay vs. Okay to Great: Two Different Audiences
00:05:33 The Shame Trap: When Self-Help Makes You Feel Worse
00:07:41 The Codependency Problem and Who We're Really Helping
00:10:08 Self-Help as Avoidance: Learning vs. Doing
00:13:51 The Magic Bullet Myth: Unrealistic Marketing Expectations
00:17:06 The Science Problem: Replication Crisis and What Actually Works
00:18:29 Treating Yourself as an Experiment
00:22:29 The Self-Acceptance Paradox: Revisiting the Fifth Problem
00:25:15 Minimalism: Our Personal Journey
00:26:29 The Cultural Context: Why Minimalism Became a Trend
00:30:37 The Benefits and Downsides of Owning Less
00:34:07 Minimalism as Identity: The Status Symbol Problem
00:34:49 Sentimentality and Objects: When Things Matter
00:33:22 The Real Lesson: Anti-Consumerism, Not Minimalism
00:40:52 Listener Question: Can Atheists Go to Church?
00:44:21 The Church-Sized Hole in Society
00:49:22 Why Strict Beliefs Create Strong… -
Ask Mark Anything: Live from Australia
5 februari 2025 · 1 uur 7 min
Australia, you absolute legends. Back in November, I did a speaking tour across seven cities, talking to thousands of you about life, purpose, relationships, and why giving fewer fucks is the key to actually living a life you don’t hate. Lees meer
We recorded some of the best Q&A moments to share with you here on the podcast. We diving into the big existential stuff—how to stop procrastinating, how to know if a relationship is right for you, and whether Australia’s ban on social media for kids is actually a good thing or not.
We’ll also talk about the brutal truth behind imposter syndrome, how to stop caring so much about what other people think, and one thing that actually helps you figure out what the hell you should be doing with your life. Plus, I’ll share some hard-earned wisdom on drinking, quitting, and why people stay in bad relationships way too long. So if you’ve ever felt stuck, lost, or just overwhelmed by the sheer absurdity of life, this one’s for you. Hit play and let’s get into it.
CHAPTERS
Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction: Live from Australia
00:02:00 Finding What Truly Matters in Life
00:03:46 The Real Reason We Procrastinate
00:07:27 Healing From Trauma: Rebuilding Trust in the World
00:09:46 The Experiment Framework: How Long to Try
00:13:19 Stop Caring What Others Think
00:14:43 Killing Old Versions of Yourself
00:16:35 The Secret to a Long-Term Successful Marriage
00:19:44 Relationship Uncertainty: Will They Come Back?
00:22:17 Bad Behavior and the 2024 Election
00:26:12 Trade-Offs With Outsized Returns
00:28:58 Parenting Advice: Raising Kids With Healthy Values
00:32:00 Turning Imposter Syndrome Into Motivation
00:34:03 Relationship Expectations: What You Deserve
00:35:39 The Problem With Too Much Empathy
00:39:00 Australia's Social Media Ban for Kids Under 16
00:40:53 Life Advice for a 16-Year-Old
00:42:47 Escaping Analysis Paralysis
00:44:41 Caring Too Much at 15: Social Pressure at School
00:47:19 Staying Relevant in the Age of AI
00:49:23 The Pa… -
How to Build a Life Full of Meaning and Purpose (ft. Arthur Brooks)
29 januari 2025 · 1 uur 11 min
Today, I sit down with Arthur Brooks, a renowned social scientist and happiness expert, for a deep dive into the realms of meaning, faith, and love. Our conversation takes unexpected turns as we explore the intersection of spirituality, psychology, and personal growth. From discussing the evolutionary roots of our search for meaning to examining the role of faith in modern life, this episode challenges conventional wisdom and offers fresh perspectives on age-old questions. Lees meer
We cover a wide range of topics, including the importance of boredom in fostering creativity, the dangers of political activism as a substitute for religion, and the keys to a successful marriage. Arthur shares insights from his work with the Dalai Lama, explains why young men are increasingly turning to religion, and offers advice on finding meaning in a world dominated by technology. Whether you're grappling with questions of faith, seeking to understand the nature of love, or simply looking for ways to live a more fulfilling life, this conversation will leave you with plenty to ponder and explore further.
Arthur’s latest book with Oprah Winfrey: Build the Life You Want: https://www.amazon.com/Build-Life-You-Want-Science-ebook/dp/B0C38FCTJC
All of Arthur’s books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Arthur-C.-Brooks/author/B001HOU7RE
Arthur’s online workshop: https://www.scienceofhappier.com/
Arthur’s newsletter: https://arthurbrooks.com/newsletter
Arthur’s column in The Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/projects/how-build-life/
Follow Arthur:
https://www.instagram.com/arthurcbrooks/
https://www.facebook.com/ArthurBrooks/
https://x.com/arthurbrooks
https://www.tiktok.com/@arthurcbrooks
CHAPTERS
Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction: Two Former Musicians Walk Into a Studio
00:00:45 The Super Striver Kid: When Ambition Replaces Meaning
00:03:38 The Identity Trap: When You Become What You Do
00:06:36 The Evolutionary Tension: Acclaim vs. Meaning
00:08:43 The Limbic System vs. The Prefrontal Co… -
Building Real Confidence, The Motivation Puzzle, and Understanding All Your “Parts”
22 januari 2025 · 50 min
Drew comes in hot today as we dig into the nitty gritty of confidence and motivation. We explore the counterintuitive idea that true confidence doesn't come from expecting success, but from being comfortable with failure. If you've ever struggled with self-doubt or felt demotivated despite external achievements, this episode might just change your perspective. Lees meer
We start by dissecting what I call the "Confidence Conundrum" and how it applies to various aspects of life, from business to relationships. Then, we challenge some long-held beliefs about intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, discussing research that questions the idea that external rewards always undermine our natural interests. We wrap up with a thought-provoking exploration of Internal Family Systems theory and how understanding the different "parts" of our psyche can lead to greater self-integration. This is a grab bag episode that we had a lot of fun with, so I hope you enjoy it
CHAPTERS
Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction: Drew Comes In Hot
00:01:29 The Confidence Conundrum Explained
00:04:02 Why External Success Doesn't Create Confidence
00:06:04 The Delusion Question: Startup Founders vs. High Earners
00:08:01 Why Affirmations and External Self-Improvement Fail
00:10:35 Being Comfortable With What You Lack
00:15:47 The Rejection Story: How Mark Met His Wife
00:18:51 The Route to Positivity Runs Through Negativity
00:20:07 Brilliant or Bullshit: The Motivation Puzzle
00:22:21 Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Motivation Defined
00:24:25 Philip Pokes Holes in Motivation Theory
00:28:47 The Laboratory Problem: Are We Measuring What We Think?
00:34:37 Rewards as Distractions, Not Demotivators
00:36:35 Two Different Activities: The Woodworking Example
00:38:32 The Takeaway: When External Rewards Change the Game
00:39:56 Question of the Week: Understanding Your Parts
00:41:01 How Parts Work: The Conservative Family vs. Sex Worker Example
00:43:26 Drew's Personal Experience: Anxious vs. Avoidant Parts
00:45:55 The Profe… -
How to Take Back Your Own Mind (ft. Tim Urban)
15 januari 2025 · 54 min
Today, I'm joined by my old friend Tim Urban, the mastermind behind the wildly popular blog Wait But Why. Known for his ability to break down complex topics with humor and stick-figure drawings, Tim has captured the attention of millions worldwide. From his early days as a blogger to the release of his first book, "What's Our Problem?: A Self-Help Book for Societies," Tim has consistently delivered thought-provoking content that challenges our understanding of the world around us. Lees meer
In this episode, we dive into pressing issues like unfettered tribalism, the concept of "idea prisons," and the potential impact of AI on society. Tim also shares personal insights as a new parent and teases his upcoming book. It'll challenge your perspectives and leave you craving more of Tim's signature blend of depth, wit, and accessibility. Don't miss this captivating conversation that tackles the complexities of our modern world head-on.
Tim’s blog: Wait, But Why?: https://waitbutwhy.com/
Tim’s book: What’s Our Problem: https://www.amazon.com/Whats-Our-Problem-Self-Help-Societies-ebook/dp/B0BTJCTR58
Follow Tim:
https://www.instagram.com/timurban
https://x.com/waitbutwhy
https://www.facebook.com/waitbutwhy
CHAPTERS
Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction: Tim Urban and Why Everyone Lost Their Minds
00:02:04 The Idea Prison Test: What Have You Changed Your Mind About?
00:03:00 Democrats, Republicans, and the Noun Prison
00:04:01 Sports Tribalism vs. Political Tribalism
00:05:33 How Tim Escaped His Own Idea Prison
00:07:15 Religion, Atheism, and the Wisdom Tim Missed
00:09:49 The Vertical vs. Horizontal Distinction in Politics
00:11:57 Are We Past Peak Tribalism?
00:12:31 Historical Patterns: The Red Scare and Salem Witch Trials
00:13:24 When the Primitive Mind Takes Over
00:14:59 The Wokeness Wave: A Crazy Thing That Happened
00:16:44 Social Media: The Root Cause That Remains
00:18:50 The Environmental Shift: New Media, New Power Dynamics
00:20:10 Developing Antibodies: Why It Takes a… -
Breaking the Monoculture, the Rise of “Premium Mediocre”, and Choosing Your Suck
8 januari 2025 · 43 min
Ever feel like culture’s splitting into countless micro-worlds where everyone’s just vibing to their own thing? In this episode, I introduce my theory on the "Jazzification of Everything." Drew and I dive into how our subcultures of music, entertainment, and even personal obsessions have evolved into these aging communities, totally detached from the cultural monocultures of the past. Whether it’s metal fans in their forties or electronic music lovers growing older with their favorite DJs, we explore how the media landscape and algorithms have encouraged us to stick to what we know—and why this shift could be both a gift and a curse. Lees meer
We also dig into why “premium mediocre” is taking over our consumer habits, and whether or not that’s actually a bad thing. We discuss how these tiny, exclusive-seeming trends might be fooling us, offering superficial luxuries instead of anything truly valuable. We cap it off with a big question about whether chasing after anything is worth it, or if we’re just dooming ourselves to disappointment. Give it a listen. Enjoy.
CHAPTERS
Chapters
00:00:00 The Jazzification of Everything: A Cultural Theory
00:00:25 Metal Shows, Electronic Music, and Middle-Aged Audiences
00:01:43 When Jazz Was Cool: The Birth of Subcultures
00:03:40 The Death of Monoculture and Cultural Balkanization
00:10:00 The Phone Problem: Recording vs. Experiencing Concerts
00:17:24 Digital Pacifiers and Avoiding Discomfort
00:21:07 Premium Mediocre: The Concept Explained
00:26:19 Why Everything Feels Like a Lie: Millennial Cynicism
00:28:29 Premium Mediocre Politics, Media, and Modern Life
00:30:25 The Maya Millennial and Aspirational Consumption
00:31:29 WeWork and the Premium Mediocre Business Model
00:33:45 The Innovation Problem: Solving Fake Problems
00:35:56 Choosing Your Suck: Why Chase Anything at All?
00:37:29 The Masochist Question: What Pain Do You Enjoy?
00:39:13 Over-Indexing on Meaning: The New Trap⇨ Sign up for my newsletter, Your Next Breakthrough.…
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How to Set Goals and Create Healthy Habits in 2025
1 januari 2025 · 52 min
In this special New Year's episode of The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck podcast, we dive into the perennial challenge of making meaningful changes in our lives. Rather than falling into the typical "new year, new you" trap that leads most people to abandon their resolutions by February, Drew and I explore a different approach to personal transformation. We share our own struggles with perfectionism, control, and finding purpose. Lees meer
We also dig into some research about how evolution may have shaped our sense of purpose, the science of habit formation, and offer practical strategies for making lasting changes. Whether you're setting goals for the new year or just trying to build better habits, this episode will help you approach personal growth with more wisdom and less pressure in 2025. Enjoy.
CHAPTERS
Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction: New Year, New You... Again
00:02:18 Last Year's Resolutions: How Did We Do?
00:03:39 The Fuck of the Year: Drew's Battle with Perfectionism
00:06:24 Making Abstract Goals Concrete: The Action Plan
00:11:52 Mark's Fuck of the Year: Letting Go of Control
00:14:58 The Terror of Transformation: Loss Aversion and Career Evolution
00:17:43 Team Safe Words and Delegation Struggles
00:20:17 Brilliant or Bullshit: Evolution Gave Us Purpose
00:26:26 The Status Paradox and Religious Communities
00:33:09 Purpose Isn't Always Pleasant: The Ethics Question
00:34:30 The Verdict: Small Improvements Beat Big Dreams
00:36:46 Listener Question: Why Are Bad Habits So Easy?
00:39:41 The Habit Loop: Modifying Cues and Adding Friction
00:43:42 Treating Symptoms vs. Root Causes: The Emotional Triggers
00:47:57 The Comfort Zone Problem and Meta Emotions
00:51:40 Outro: Wisdom of the Week Fail⇨ Sign up for my newsletter, Your Next Breakthrough. It will help make you a less awful person: https://markmanson.net/breakthrough
⇨ Get clarity on what actually matters. Try Purpose, Mark's AI mentor app that learns your patterns, challenges your blind spots…
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No Regrets, The Case Against Empathy, and Is AI Coming for Us All?
18 december 2024 · 50 min
This week, we dive headfirst into the messy, uncomfortable topic of regret. From the aches and grays that come with hitting a new decade to the deeper realizations about relationships, selfish mistakes, and missed opportunities, we unpack how regret shapes who we are. And there's a twist: what if regret isn’t something to fear or avoid? What if it’s a tool for growth? I share my own stories of taking people for granted, self-destructive habits, and the lessons I’ve learned about self-forgiveness and choosing your regrets wisely. Lees meer
We also tackle some fascinating questions about whether empathy is actually good for society. Is it always a good thing, or can it sometimes lead us astray? To round things off, we share our thoughts on AI and its impact on creativity and human connection.
Enjoy.
CHAPTERS
Chapters
00:00:00 Welcome to 40: Turning Points and Reflection
00:02:10 The Regret Conversation: Looking Back on Life at 40
00:03:15 Identity and Experience: Why Mark Doesn't Do Regret
00:04:48 The Five Regrets of the Dying and What They Reveal
00:07:42 Taking People for Granted: Drew's Biggest Regret
00:09:11 The Disrespect Factor: When Young Mark Was a Dick
00:11:44 Health Regrets and Ignoring Your Own Advice
00:15:45 Self-Forgiveness and Moving Forward from Regret
00:18:20 Brilliant or Bullshit: Is Empathy Overrated?
00:19:23 The Rise of Empathy in Gen Z and What It Means
00:22:14 When Empathy Blinds You: The Spotlight Effect
00:25:50 The George Floyd Effect: When Empathy Backfires
00:27:45 Cognitive vs. Emotional Empathy and Effective Altruism
00:33:02 How Netflix Manipulates Your Empathy for Serial Killers
00:37:15 Empathy's Proper Place: Small, Local, and Personal
00:38:43 AI and Creativity: What's the New Scarcity?
00:41:10 The Two Internets: Machine Internet vs. Human Internet
00:42:58 Why Magnus Carlsen Matters More Than Chess Software
00:44:39 Reddit, Live Events, and the Return to Human Connection
00:48:23 Using AI as a Tool, Not a Replacement
00:49:51 Wisd… -
How to Get Lucky in Life and Take Smarter Risks
11 december 2024 · 44 min
Today, we dive into the fascinating world of luck, risk, and how they shape our lives. We explore the delicate balance between playing it safe and taking chances, and why understanding this balance is crucial for personal growth. If you've ever wondered whether you're too cautious or not cautious enough, then strap in for this one. Lees meer
We dig into the psychology of luck, examining how our perceptions influence our outcomes, and why taking calculated risks can lead to outsized returns. We also tackle the tough question of how to cope with life's inevitable hardships. Hopefully this gives you a fresh perspective on risk-taking and a new appreciation for the role of chance in your life.
Enjoy.
CHAPTERS
Chapters
00:00:00 The Tesla Disaster and the Doghouse
00:02:22 The Fuck of the Week: How Lucky Are You?
00:03:17 Luck Is Just Risk Management
00:05:21 The Four Ways to Create Your Own Luck
00:10:30 Counterfactual Thinking: It Could Always Be Worse
00:13:56 The Natural Fail Rate of Life
00:15:21 Poker and Thinking in Probabilities
00:17:44 Are We All Chicken Shits? The Risk Aversion Crisis
00:21:37 The Equilibrium of Risk: Fewer Risk-Takers, Bigger Rewards
00:24:54 How Mark Analyzes Risk: The Analytical and Qualitative Sides
00:27:25 The Most Important Question: What Do You Gain If You Fail?
00:30:04 Asymmetric Risk: When the Upside Crushes the Downside
00:32:23 Taking At-Bats: Why You Need to Try 100 Times
00:34:13 How Do You Accept That Life Will Always Hurt?
00:35:06 The Fail Rate of Being Human
00:40:10 The Two Arrows of Pain: Event vs. Meaning
00:41:38 Why Do Good Things Happen to Bad People?⇨ Sign up for my newsletter, Your Next Breakthrough. It will help make you a less awful person: https://markmanson.net/breakthrough
⇨ Get clarity on what actually matters. Try Purpose, Mark's AI mentor app that learns your patterns, challenges your blind spots, and helps you take action. Get started at https://bit.ly/4w46FMH
FOLLOW MARK
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Advice To Avoid, The Dark Side of Therapy, and Taking Your Own Medicine
4 december 2024 · 43 min
You ever notice how some people can’t stand being told what to do—even when the advice is good? Yeah, that’s me. In this episode, Drew and I dig into why so many of us rebel against advice, why others chase it like their life depends on it, and whether all that “actionable advice” we’re constantly fed is actually helping anyone. Spoiler: I’m not a fan of cookie-cutter solutions, and I’ve got some opinions about the self-help industry’s obsession with telling people exactly what to do. Lees meer
We also get into the bigger picture—how advice often misses the mark when it’s not tailored to someone’s unique situation, and how therapy culture might be trying to replace something deeper that’s missing in our lives. I’ll share why I don’t give rigid life hacks, the trouble with universal solutions, and the surprising reason why most breakthroughs aren’t about the advice at all. If you’re tired of “do this, don’t do that” advice, this one’s for you.
Enjoy.
CHAPTERS
Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction: The Compulsive Contrarian
00:02:30 The Problem with Actionable Advice
00:04:09 Why One-Size-Fits-All Advice Fails
00:06:44 Bad to Okay vs. Good to Great
00:09:05 All Advice Is Autobiographical
00:13:16 The Boring Truth About What Actually Works
00:16:50 Self-Help as Entertainment and Hobby
00:20:12 Therapy vs. Therapy Culture
00:24:26 Why Therapy Doesn't Scale
00:29:05 The New Morality of Self-Fulfillment
00:31:55 The Pendulum: Self-Indulgence to Self-Denial
00:35:46 Taking Your Own Medicine
00:39:30 The Materialism Trap
00:41:53 Wisdom of the Week: Advice Like Snow⇨ Sign up for my newsletter, Your Next Breakthrough. It will help make you a less awful person: https://markmanson.net/breakthrough
⇨ Get clarity on what actually matters. Try Purpose, Mark's AI mentor app that learns your patterns, challenges your blind spots, and helps you take action. Get started at https://bit.ly/4w46FMH
FOLLOW MARK
Mark's IG: https://www.instagram.com/markmanson
Solved IG: https:/… -
How to Stop Living for Other People (ft. Ben Nemtin)
20 november 2024 · 1 uur 2 min
Have you ever felt like there’s more to life than the daily grind, like your dreams are buried under all the obligations and expectations life throws at you? Lees meer
In this episode, we sit down with The Buried Life co-founder and New York Times bestselling author, Ben Nemtin, to explore why so many of us feel disconnected from our true purpose—and how to reclaim it.
For Ben, it all started as a group of friends chasing wild bucket-list dreams and helping strangers achieve their dreams too. In the process, they discovered what it means to give yourself permission to dream and then make those dreams a reality.
We dive deep into the psychology of fear, the power of accountability, and the surprising benefits of doing what you love—not just for yourself, but for everyone around you. We discuss why most people regret not living authentically, how to overcome the social and emotional barriers holding you back, and practical strategies for rediscovering your dreams, even if they’ve been buried for years.
If you’re looking for inspiration to take that first small step toward a life that feels truly yours, this episode will get you there.
Enjoy.
Ben’s Stuff:
The Bucket List Journal by Ben Nemtin: https://www.amazon.com/Bucket-List-Journal-Achieve-Fulfilling/dp/B09VX2LMY2
The Buried Life (TV Show): https://www.bennemtin.com/tv-show/
The Buried Life (Poem): https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/43585/the-buried-life
Ben’s Website: https://www.bennemtin.comBen’s TED Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H6Y7mfxEaco
Follow Ben:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/bennemtin
https://www.instagram.com/bennemtin
https://twitter.com/BenNemtin
https://www.facebook.com/Nemtin/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5l2kfhEEEXLm2HlRXRVzbw
CHAPTERS
Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction: The Buried Life Origin Story
00:03:17 The Two-Week Road Trip That Changed Everything
00:07:40 The Ripple Effect: When Doing What You Love Inspires Others
00:09:18 The Biggest Human Regret: Not Living Authentica… -
The 4 Stages of Life, Psychological Richness, and How Much Is Enough?
13 november 2024 · 46 min
Life has a way of just kind of happening to you. And while exactly what happens is unique to each of us, we all seem to go through very similar stages of our lives. Lees meer
Today, we talk about the challenges of these stages. Each stage comes with its own “crisis” that, if navigated well, can propel us to the next stage. It is this never-ending struggle where life happens.
And then… Drew gets all new age and Mark just isn’t having it. And we round it out with a very simple, yet very difficult question from a listener: How much is enough?
Enjoy.
The Four Stages of Life by Mark Manson:https://markmanson.net/four-stages-of-life
The Art of the Interesting by Lorraine Besser: https://www.amazon.com/Art-Interesting-What-Pursuit-Cultivate/dp/1538743205
CHAPTERS
Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction: The Tolerance Paradox
00:02:46 The Four Stages of Life Framework
00:04:21 Stage One: Mimicry and the Crisis of Identity
00:06:53 Stage Two: Exploration and the Novelty Trap
00:09:47 Peter Pan Syndrome and Extended Adolescence
00:10:51 Stage Three: Commitment and Deep Meaning
00:12:59 Stage Four: Legacy and Acceptance
00:15:55 The Pain of Transition Between Stages
00:22:46 Your Relationship With Time Completely Changes
00:25:05 Brilliant or Bullshit: Psychological Richness
00:29:57 The Diversified Happiness Portfolio Theory
00:36:58 How Much Is Enough?
00:41:03 When 'Never Enough' Becomes Your Superpower
00:43:10 Wisdom of the Week: Toni Morrison on Beauty⇨ Sign up for my newsletter, Your Next Breakthrough. It will help make you a less awful person: https://markmanson.net/breakthrough
⇨ Get clarity on what actually matters. Try Purpose, Mark's AI mentor app that learns your patterns, challenges your blind spots, and helps you take action. Get started at https://bit.ly/4w46FMH
FOLLOW MARK
Mark's IG: https://www.instagram.com/markmanson
Solved IG: https://www.instagram.com/solvedpodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/markmanson
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ma… -
How to Cut Through the Bullsh*t in Modern Dating (ft. Sabrina Zohar)
6 november 2024 · 56 min
Wouldn’t it be great if we dropped all the bullsh*t about modern dating? No more games. No more fake, flaky people. No more texting back and forth for weeks or even months only to find out you have zero chemistry when you meet up in person. No more f*cking bots and AI generated dating profiles… Lees meer
Sabrina Zohar definitely thinks we can skip all of it and get right down to the fun stuff (oh yeah, baby!). All it requires is brutal honesty with yourself and the people you’re interested in. So if you can stomach that, this episode is right up your alley.
We ask Sabrina: What does your attachment style really tell you about how you should date? Are dating apps really that terrible, or can we change the way we use them to get better results? And do we have high standards, or are our expectations just too f*cking high
And a whole lot more.
We had a lot of fun in the studio with Sabrina. I hope you enjoy it too.
About Sabrina Zohar
Sabrina Zohar is the multi-faceted entrepreneur and media figure responsible for coaching hundreds of thousands of people to start doing the work to improve their dating life, their relationships with others–and more importantly: their relationships with themselves.
Sabrina’s online presence shifted from talking about her sustainable clothing line, SoftWear, to sharing about her personal dating life. Sabrina’s message spread like wildfire, and the rest is history.
Sabrina’s message has earned her features in NBC California live, The LA times, The Drew Barrymore show, Daily Mail, Newsweek, US Sun, Yahoo, MSN, and more. Sabrina is a multi-faceted force guiding individuals to success in the entrepreneurial space, fashion, podcasting and media, and of course, the intricate world of love and relationships.
Sabrina’s website: https://www.sabrinazohar.com/
The Sabrina Zohar Show Podcast: https://www.sabrinazohar.com/podcast
Follow Sabrina:
https://www.tiktok.com/@sabrina.zohar
https://www.instagram.com/sabrina.zohar
https://www.youtube.com/@…
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How to Get Out of a Rut, Pain and Boredom, and Knowing When to Quit
30 oktober 2024 · 44 min
Today, we’re diving deep into the subtle difference between a healthy routine and a rut. How can you tell if your daily grind is keeping you grounded… or just grinding you down? Lees meer
Next, we tackle the question of boredom: Why does it feel so unbearable, and could we actually be missing out on its hidden perks? Spoiler alert—boredom might just be the key to unlocking your most creative, inspired self.
Finally, we confront one of life’s biggest dilemmas: When is it time to walk away, and when should you double down? Whether it’s a project that’s going nowhere or a relationship that feels like it’s on life support, we’ll give you insights on knowing when to quit and when to stick it out.
Enjoy.
Brilliant or Bullshit Paper: Just think: The challenges of the disengaged mind https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4330241/
CHAPTERS
Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction: Am I Becoming a Boring Person?
00:01:11 When Does a Routine Become a Rut?
00:02:53 The Alcohol Factor: Craving Novelty vs. Craving Stability
00:03:41 Fear vs. Optimization: Defining the Difference
00:04:22 The Immanuel Kant Paradox: Genius in Repetition
00:07:07 The Four Stages of Life: From Mimicry to Legacy
00:09:53 Marriage Problems and the Say Yes Strategy
00:13:54 The Seasonality of Chaos: Flipping the Card Green
00:16:44 Is It Brilliant or Bullshit: The Electric Shock Study
00:18:11 Why Boredom Is Actually Painful
00:24:18 Raw Dogging Flights: The New Machismo
00:26:25 Boredom as Competitive Advantage
00:27:44 Q and A: The Rules of Quitting—When to Quit and When to Grit
00:28:54 The Momentum Test: Is Your Rock Going Uphill or Downhill?
00:31:03 The Bukowski Exception: When Outliers Break the Rules
00:31:46 Creative Pursuits vs. Professional Pursuits: Different Equations
00:33:04 The Tim Ferriss Question: Where Does Failure Teach You Most?
00:35:01 Relationships and the Rock Going Downhill
00:37:14 Hard Work Redefined: When 12 Hours Feels Easier Than 4
00:39:25 The Grammy Winner Who Never Felt Burnt Ou… -
How to Find Your True Path in Life (ft. Robert Greene)
23 oktober 2024 · 1 uur 4 min
What are you called to do in life? What is your life’s task? And once you figure that out, how do you pursue it? Lees meer
The one and only Robert Greene sat down with us on the pod to talk about all of these questions and a whole more.
We discuss finding and pursuing one’s life task, the nature and causes of “Peter Pan Syndrome”, science vs timeless wisdom on life, figuring out what do in midlife after you’ve taken the wrong path, and a much more.
Enjoy.
CHAPTERS
Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction: Robert Greene in the Flesh
00:00:43 The Resurgence of The 48 Laws of Power
00:05:57 The Dark Side vs. The Real Robert
00:08:11 The Theatrical Nature of Social Life
00:09:22 Finding Your Life's Task: Robert's Journey
00:12:58 Reading the Signs: Positive and Negative Feedback
00:15:10 Persistence vs. Knowing When to Pivot
00:18:00 The Pain You Enjoy: Finding Your True Work
00:21:43 Reconnecting With Your Life's Task
00:25:25 The Five Forms of Intelligence
00:29:13 Brilliant or Bullshit: Peter Pan Syndrome
00:32:00 The Problem With Positive Masculinity
00:37:33 Too Much Talking, Not Enough Acting
00:38:23 Life as a Game: Get Out and Play
00:42:25 Listener Questions: Science vs. Timeless Wisdom
00:44:06 The Problem With Big Data and Algorithms
00:51:09 Starting Over at 35: Building From What You Have
00:57:00 The Midlife Crisis: Is This It?
01:00:37 Finding the Sublime: Robert's Next Book
01:03:26 Closing Thoughts and What's Next⇨ Sign up for my newsletter, Your Next Breakthrough. It will help make you a less awful person: https://markmanson.net/breakthrough
⇨ Get clarity on what actually matters. Try Purpose, Mark's AI mentor app that learns your patterns, challenges your blind spots, and helps you take action. Get started at https://bit.ly/4w46FMH
FOLLOW MARK
Mark's IG: https://www.instagram.com/markmanson
Solved IG: https://www.instagram.com/solvedpodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/markmanson
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markmanson/
YouTube: htt…