By Rick Walker
The podcast currently has 50 episodes available.
JOIN 20,000 OTHER LEADERS - GET MY NEWSLETTER! : https://rickwalker.com/newsletter/
Have you noticed how many young men seem lost these days? They’re struggling in school, in relationships, and even in the workplace. If you’ve ever wondered why, Dr. Warren Farrell has some thought-provoking answers.
In my latest episode, Dr. Farrell, renowned author of The Boy Crisis, delves into why young men today face unique challenges. From the absence of fathers to the mixed messages about masculinity, Dr. Farrell lays out the issues that are driving boys into crisis mode.
One story he shared struck me deeply: a young man who wished he hadn’t been born male, overwhelmed by the messages around “toxic masculinity.” Feeling isolated simply for who he is.
But it’s not all doom and gloom. Dr. Farrell also shares what we, as parents and society, can do to support our boys—simple steps to help them build resilience and confidence.
Curious to hear more? Tune in now and get inspired to make a change. It’s a conversation that may just change how you see the young men around you.
Key Takeaways
Introduction (00:00)
Young men's engagement in politics (01:16)
Challenges faced by young men (04:18)
Historical context of feminist movements (09:30)
Impact of divorce on boys (21:12)
The boy crisis and its causes (25:26)
The role of fathers in boys' development (32:12)
The father's catch-22 (41:52)
The role of team sports (51:36)
Preparing men for military service (55:04)
The dilemma of toxic masculinity (1:01:10)
What our daughters need to hear (1:20:21)
Role Mate to Soul Mate and other resources from Dr. Farrell (1:41:35)
Additional Resources
Dr. Farrell's Website: https://www.warrenfarrell.com
"Role Mate to Soul Mate" Dr. Farrell's latest book: https://www.amazon.com/Role-Mate-Soul-Secrets-Lifelong-ebook/dp/B0CKSHR29M/
"The Boy Crisis" by Dr. Warren Farrell: https://www.amazon.com/Boy-Crisis-Boys-Struggling-About-ebook/dp/B079SGJG13/
Find Dr. Farrell on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcdQla_9PbQb4-FKFxJN2ag
Follow Dr. Farrell on X: https://x.com/drwarrenfarrell
—
Contact Info: Website/Booking: https://www.rickwalker.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RickWalkerTX
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rickwalkertx/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rickwalkertx
—
Rick Walker Podcast is a place for discussions around leadership, responsibility, and purpose. Join us each week as we break down the frameworks of becoming a world-class leader who is effective in their work and daily life.
JOIN 20,000 OTHER LEADERS - GET MY NEWSLETTER! : https://rickwalker.com/newsletter/
Are societal expectations keeping men from living a fulfilled life?
In this week’s episode, Jimmy Rex and Rick Walker discuss the mask of masculinity and the consequences of masking, finding strength in vulnerability, redefining success, and the power of brotherhood.
As a mentor for men seeking authenticity, Jimmy encourages a break from stereotypes that trap men into hollow performances of masculinity. He promotes a focus on discipline, accountability, and finding one’s true purpose.
We discuss Jimmy’s unique approach to coaching men towards a more rewarding life through vulnerability and emotional openness for a deeper sense of connection and happiness.
Other topics include the balance of masculine and feminine energies and how men can reimagine their roles to build healthier relationships.
Tune in to learn how to redefine masculinity on your terms and create a life of purpose and fulfillment.
Key Takeaways
Introduction (00:00)
Societal expectations and masculinity pressures (01:06)
The significance of reliable, masculine energy (08:40)
Consequences of avoiding self-reflection (13:10)
Vulnerability as a path to healing and connection (22:58)
Discovering purpose and living a fulfilling life (34:46)
Core values as anchors for life decisions (38:17)
The importance of self-investment and self-improvement (50:12)
Jimmy’s writing process (1:28:08)
Additional Resources
Connect with Jimmy Rex on:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrjimmyrex/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mrjimmyrex
📖 BE ONE: How to Be a Healthy Man in Toxic Times - https://www.amazon.com/BE-ONE-Healthy-Toxic-Times/dp/1394229127
—
Contact Info: Website/Booking: https://www.rickwalker.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RickWalkerTX
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rickwalkertx/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rickwalkertx
—
Rick Walker Podcast is a place for discussions around leadership, responsibility, and purpose. Join us each week as we break down the frameworks of becoming a world-class leader who is effective in their work and daily life.
JOIN 20,000 OTHER LEADERS - GET MY NEWSLETTER! : https://rickwalker.com/newsletter/
Why are so many young men flocking to Orthodoxy in search of meaning?
In this thought-provoking episode, Father Michael Butler joins me to discuss why the Orthodox Church is attracting a new generation of men seeking purpose and grounding. Father Michael, an Orthodox priest and seasoned leader of men’s retreats, shares his teachings on how ancient wisdom and virtues can guide men in today’s confusing world.
Drawing from philosophy and Christian teachings, Father Michael explains the foundational role of courage, the pursuit of a life of service, and the need for structure in finding true fulfillment. He unpacks the appeal of Orthodoxy’s deep-rooted traditions and spiritual practices, which offer clarity and direction for those yearning for a meaningful life.
Explore how a return to timeless virtues and community-centered faith is helping men transcend modern distractions and embrace a flourishing life.
Whether seeking deeper faith or a more intentional life, this conversation offers a roadmap to manhood and virtue. Listen in to learn how small, courageous actions can lay the foundation for a meaningful life.
Key Takeaways
Introduction (00:00)
Philosophy of a flourishing life (01:28)
Cardinal virtues and natural virtues (05:08)
The role of justice for young men (14:28)
Young men's search for purpose (19:32)
Orthodox church growth among young men (21:50)
Confession and spiritual counsel (42:38)
The role of anger and hate (56:54)
The ascetical life and overcoming addictions (1:00:40)
The role of the saints and eternal life (1:05:38)
Are young men running away from something? (01:15:36)
The proper role of work (01:25:21)
Additional Resources
Connect with Fr Michael Butler on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/avg2alpha/
Avg2Alpha website https://www.avg2alpha.com/
Avg2Alpha YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz-j0IgxQUjkqOovw3NRLBg
Avg2Alpha on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@avg2alpha
—
Contact Info: Website/Booking: https://www.rickwalker.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RickWalkerTX
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rickwalkertx/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rickwalkertx
—
Rick Walker Podcast is a place for discussions around leadership, responsibility, and purpose. Join us each week as we break down the frameworks of becoming a world-class leader who is effective in their work and daily life.
JOIN 20,000 OTHER LEADERS - GET MY NEWSLETTER! : https://rickwalker.com/newsletter/
How well do we really understand economic history, and how does it impact our present-day policies?
In this episode, economic historian Phillip Magness challenges widely held views about the Great Depression, slavery’s impact on the U.S. economy, and government intervention in economic crises.
Magness, known for his interdisciplinary work in both economics and history, shares insights on how government policies have often done more harm than good.
Magness discusses how women’s entry into the workforce post-WWII reshaped economic dynamics, the failures of tariffs to protect domestic industries, and the harmful economic effects of slavery. His insights invite listeners to rethink how historical misconceptions continue to shape modern economic policies.
If you’re interested in understanding the true impact of historical events on today’s economic landscape, this is a must-listen episode.
Listen now to discover how misunderstood policies and historical events continue to influence the present day.
Key Takeaways
Introduction (00:00)
Who is an economic historian? (01:05)
Learning from historical economic mistakes (03:20)
Impact of World War II on the economy (06:18)
Sustainability of tariffs as economic and diplomatic tools (12:58)
19th-century economic insights - Henry Clay’s 1824 Plan (16:33)
Slavery's negative economic impact (19:53)
Modern economic challenges and free trade (38:46)
Phillip’s writing and research process (49:17)
Critique of the 1619 project (59:15)
Implications of the growing national debt (01:24:49)
Additional Resources
Connect with Phillip Magness
Website: https://www.independent.org/aboutus/person_detail.asp?id=3777
Twitter/X: https://x.com/PhilWMagness
📖 Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Phillip-W.-Magness/author/B004IA7HBI
—
Contact Info: Website/Booking: https://www.rickwalker.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RickWalkerTX
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rickwalkertx/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rickwalkertx
—
Rick Walker Podcast is a place for discussions around leadership, responsibility, and purpose. Join us each week as we break down the frameworks of becoming a world-class leader who is effective in their work and daily life.
JOIN 20,000 OTHER LEADERS - GET MY NEWSLETTER! : https://rickwalker.com/newsletter/
Are men missing something by not having rituals? Jack Donovan thinks so, and he’s here to explain why.
In this episode, I sit down with author Jack Donovan to explore the role of rituals in modern society and their importance, especially for men. Donovan shares his unique perspective on how rituals serve to manifest abstract beliefs in physical form and reinforce bonds between individuals.
We dive deep into the concept of primal masculinity and Donovan’s theory of “solar masculinity,” where men act as sources of order, warmth, and light for those around them. He also discusses how modern men are turning to ancient mythologies like Norse paganism to find their cultural identity, often with unexpected and sometimes controversial consequences.
Tune in to learn how embracing rituals can change the way you see masculinity and community.
Key Takeaways
Introduction (00:00)
Rituals and their importance (01:17)
Tribal instincts and masculinity (03:10)
American men and European mythological traditions (04:52)
Development of primal masculinity theories (08:45)
The Way of Men Book and Jack’s Legacy (14:48)
The role of rituals in creating order (33:11)
The concept of solar idealism and its archetypes (57:24)
Jack Donovan’s writing process (1:38:47)
The Influence of historical figures and mythology (1:41:32)
The importance of responsibility and identity in modern culture (1:42:24)
Additional Resources
Connect with Jack Donovan
Website: https://www.jack-donovan.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@orderoffire
IG: https://www.instagram.com/theorderoffire/
X: https://x.com/mr_jackdonovan
Books:
📖Fire in the Dark https://amzn.to/3VhdV7H
📖A More Complete Beast https://amzn.to/4bBLKpD
📖Becoming a Barbarian https://amzn.to/4bZL0KQ
📖The Way of Men https://amzn.to/4aITiG7
—
Contact Info: Website/Booking: https://www.rickwalker.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RickWalkerTX
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rickwalkertx/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rickwalkertx
—
Rick Walker Podcast is a place for discussions around leadership, responsibility, and purpose. Join us each week as we break down the frameworks of becoming a world-class leader who is effective in their work and daily life.
JOIN 20,000 OTHER LEADERS - GET MY NEWSLETTER! : https://rickwalker.com/newsletter/
Picture this: A young boy watching his father shimmy up a 100-foot flagpole to put food on the table. That boy was me, and those moments undoubtedly changed my life forever.
It all goes back to my childhood weekends with my father, a flagpole painter along the Texas coast. Every weekend, we would head out to paint rusted flagpoles, often under the blazing sun. But my father approached it with high standards.
He could have easily cut cornersᅳafter all, who would notice?
But he never did. He taught me that true success isn't about taking the easy route; it's about doing the job right, even when no one is watching.
You see, my dad wasn't just painting flagpoles. He was teaching me the most important lesson about success I've ever learned - one that's helped me build multiple successful businesses and mentor countless entrepreneurs.
I will break down exactly how my dad's daring flagpole work translated into a success principle that's applicable to ANY field or industry.
This isn't your typical "work hard and follow your dreams" advice. It's a counterintuitive approach that might just change the way you think about risk, quality, and what it truly means to be successful.
Tune in to this week's episode to hear more about flagpoles, risk-taking, and my dad - a man who taught me more about entrepreneurship and integrity than any business school ever could.
Key Takeaways
Introduction (00:00)
Lessons from painting flagpoles (00:35)
Dad's entrepreneurial spirit (01:21)
The principles of quality, integrity, and responsibility (02:40)
Mentorship beyond immediate circle (07:10)
Risk-taking and growth (09:42)
The value of perseverance (11:36)
Final thoughts (12:36)
Additional Resources
Contact Info: Website/Booking: https://www.rickwalker.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RickWalkerTX
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rickwalkertx/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rickwalkertx
—
Rick Walker Podcast is a place for discussions around leadership, responsibility, and purpose. Join us each week as we break down the frameworks of becoming a world-class leader who is effective in their work and daily life.
JOIN 20,000 OTHER LEADERS - GET MY NEWSLETTER! : https://rickwalker.com/newsletter/
I’ve always believed that deep down, we’re all searching for something more—a connection to something beyond the material world. But in today’s culture, that can feel impossible.
At every turn, modern thinking tells us we can explain everything through science and logic. But that’s not enough?
This week, I interviewed Bishop Maximus Marretta. He serves as the Titular Bishop of Pelagonia of the Genuine Orthodox Church of Greece. Residing at the Hermitage of St. Ignatius in Santa Cruz Naranjo, Guatemala, he works across Latin America and Africa.
The Hermitage is a Spanish-speaking Orthodox monastery focused on stillness and contemplation, where monks grow coffee to support themselves. Bishop Maximus has a keen interest in philosophy, theology, history, and languages. He lectures and teaches classes on these subjects at St. Photios Orthodox Theological Seminary in Etna, California.
Raised in the Orthodox Christian tradition, Bishop Maximus shares how his faith offers something profoundly different from what we hear daily: an experience of God that goes beyond words and logic.
We explore the rich, mystical tradition of the Orthodox Church, the meaning of the Trinity, and how understanding God's mystery could transform your life. If you’ve ever felt something’s missing in the secular worldview, this conversation is a must-listen.
Key Takeaways
Introduction (00:00)
Bishop Maximus' background and journey (00:31)
Cultural differences and coffee preferences (03:36)
Orthodox view of God and the Trinity (05:20)
Theological distinctions and the Filioque controversy (23:49)
The role of the Holy Spirit and the Trinity in the Christian life (36:44)
Philosophy, science, and modern thought (41:01)
Subjectivism/relativism is antithetical to religion and Christianity (58:16)
Orthodox spirituality and deification (01:20:25)
Additional Resources
Connect with Bishop Maximus Marretta
Monastery in Guatemala https://www.monasterioortodoxo.org/
Coffee Grown at Monastery https://sanignaciocoffee.com
Bishop's Maximus Seminary, where he teaches Philosophy https://spots.edu/
—
Contact Info: Website/Booking: https://www.rickwalker.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RickWalkerTX
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rickwalkertx/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rickwalkertx
—
Rick Walker Podcast is a place for discussions around leadership, responsibility, and purpose. Join us each week as we break down the frameworks of becoming a world-class leader who is effective in their work and daily life.
JOIN 20,000 OTHER LEADERS - GET MY NEWSLETTER! : https://rickwalker.com/newsletter/
Can deep philosophical thinking enhance your everyday life?
Dr. Liz Jackson, a leading researcher in epistemology, joins me to talk about the intricacies of her thought process, writing techniques, and lecture preparation. She shares how her methodical approach to writing and lecturing helps her stay productive and grounded and balance intellectual work with personal responsibilities.
Beyond her writing, Dr. Jackson discusses the role of curiosity in driving philosophical inquiry and how studying philosophy equips people with critical thinking skills that extend far beyond the classroom, helping them grow in all areas of life.
One of the episode's highlights is Dr. Jackson's take on the nature of belief and how it differs from faith.
She also touches on the surprising role of faith for an atheist by presenting an open-minded view of how non-believers can still engage with faith in a meaningful way.
Finally, we get into dualism, particularly the distinction between belief and credence, and why understanding both is important for navigating life's complex decisions.
Listen in to hear how philosophy isn't just for academics but has practical applications in your daily life.
Key Takeaways
Introduction (00:00)
Dr. Jackson’s approach to writing (01:07)
How philosophy helps develop critical thinking skills (10:12)
The process of developing and refining philosophical ideas (15:56)
The role of meandering in philosophical lectures (23:55)
Importance of curiosity in philosophical inquiry (27:08)
Philosophy as a balance of dissonance and resolution (29:53)
The fundamental role of logic in philosophical reasoning (34:51)
Exploring the nature of belief and faith (41:55)
Distinguishing between faith as attitude and action (44:43)
Motivations for atheists to explore religious faith (51:54)
Additional Resources
Connect with Dr. Liz Jackson
Website: Liz Jackson
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lizjackson111
Mini Habits: Smaller Habits, Bigger Results by Stephen Guise https://www.amazon.com/Mini-Habits-Smaller-Bigger-Results/dp/1494882272
Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World by Cal Newport https://www.amazon.com/Deep-Work-Focused-Success-Distracted/dp/1455586692
Taking Pascal's Wager: Faith, Evidence and the Abundant Life by Michael Rota https://www.amazon.com/Taking-Pascals-Wager-Evidence-Abundant/dp/0830851364
The Will to Believe and Other Essays in Popular Philosophy by William James https://www.gutenberg.org/files/26659/26659-h/26659-h.htm
Books by Simone Weil https://www.amazon.com/stores/Simone-Weil/author/B00P63M96Y
—
Contact Info: Website/Booking: https://www.rickwalker.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RickWalkerTX
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rickwalkertx/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rickwalkertx
—
Rick Walker Podcast is a place for discussions around leadership, responsibility, and purpose. Join us each week as we break down the frameworks of becoming a world-class leader who is effective in their work and daily life.
JOIN 20,000 OTHER LEADERS - GET MY NEWSLETTER! : https://rickwalker.com/newsletter/
Are you seeking meaning in a world that feels increasingly chaotic? In this episode, Rick Walker sits down with pastor and thinker Paul VanderKlay to explore how traditional religions like Christianity are still relevant in addressing today’s existential crises.
Paul shares fascinating insights on John Vervaeke's "meaning crisis" and how figures like Jordan Peterson have reignited a conversation about spirituality in the modern age.
Paul explains how his long-running discussions with philosopher John Vervaeke have shaped his understanding of the spiritual void in contemporary life.
He also discusses how Christianity's influence stretches across cultures, with surprising parallels in Eastern religions like Buddhism.
Paul and Rick also get into the meaning of leadership through the lens of figures like Alexander the Great and Jesus Christ.
If you’ve ever wondered how faith can play a role in solving today's big questions, this episode is for you. Don’t miss Paul’s take on how modern society can rediscover its spiritual roots.
Key Takeaways
Introduction and Background (00:00)
Vervaeke's 'meaning crisis' concept and religion (00:59)
Alexander the Great and Christian themes (17:26)
Christianity and cultural dynamics (41:52)
Christian identity and public witness (48:34)
Christian Reformed Church history and challenges (53:15)
Concluding thoughts on Christian living (01:03:08)
Additional Resources
Connect with Paul VanderKlay
Twitter: twitter.com/PaulVanderKlay
Living Stones CRC on Facebook: facebook.com/LSCRC
Living Stones CRC on YouTube: @livingstoneschristianrefor6073
Patreon: patreon.com/paulvanderklay
Website: Leadingchurch.com and paulvanderklay.me
Audio Only Podcast: paulvanderklay.podbean.com
Audio Only ITunes Podcast: itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/paul-vanderklays-podcast/id1394314333
Substack: paulvanderklay.substack.com
—
Contact Info: Website/Booking: https://www.rickwalker.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RickWalkerTX
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rickwalkertx/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rickwalkertx
—
Rick Walker Podcast is a place for discussions around leadership, responsibility, and purpose. Join us each week as we break down the frameworks of becoming a world-class leader who is effective in their work and daily life.
JOIN 20,000 OTHER LEADERS - GET MY NEWSLETTER! : https://rickwalker.com/newsletter/
Join Rick as he talks with Brendan Graham Dempsey, a writer, poet, and philosopher, about how metamodernism might hold the answers to navigating the complexities of our time.
Brendan is the director of the Sky Meadow Institute and the author of multiple books on metamodern spirituality. His work seeks to integrate the best aspects of these eras while moving beyond their pitfalls.
Brendan provides a detailed walkthrough of the evolution of cultural paradigms, moving from pre-modern religious frameworks to the rise of science and rationality in modernity and, eventually, the skepticism and relativism of postmodernism.
Brendan argues that metamodernism is a synthesis of these previous eras, seeking to incorporate the insights of each while avoiding their excesses.
The discussion also covers Brendan's personal journey from a Christian upbringing to academic study and eventual philosophical exploration in the arts, theology, and metamodern spirituality.
He touches on the role of art, meaning, and morality in shaping our understanding of the world today, using examples from contemporary culture to illustrate how metamodernism navigates the tension between sincerity and irony.
Don't miss this fascinating conversation that rethinks where we've been and where we might be heading.
Key Takeaways
Brendan Graham Dempsey's background and journey (00:00)
Brendan's artistic journey and influences (01:32)
Philosophy of negative space in art and writing (06:59)
Brendan's musical preferences and writing process (09:44)
Historical overview of cultural epochs (13:44)
Modernity and its critiques (21:16)
Post-modernity and its implications (43:45)
Transition to meta-modernity (56:19)
Values and morality in meta-modernity (1:10:48)
Brendan’s work at Sky Meadow Institute and farming (01:35:22)
Additional Resources
Connect with Brendan Graham Dempsey
Brendan's Website: https://www.brendangrahamdempsey.com/
Metamodern Spirituality Series: https://www.brendangrahamdempsey.com/metamodern-spirituality-series
Brendan's books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Brendan-Graham-Dempsey/author/B07NC16F9R
—
Contact Info: Website/Booking: https://www.rickwalker.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RickWalkerTX
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rickwalkertx/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rickwalkertx
—
Rick Walker Podcast is a place for discussions around leadership, responsibility, and purpose. Join us each week as we break down the frameworks of becoming a world-class leader who is effective in their work and daily life.
The podcast currently has 50 episodes available.