This inspired conversation with the positively effervescent Alison Armstrong explores broad terrain ranging from biological and behavioral differences between men and women (and strategies for mitigating those effectively) to the integration of masculinity and femininity, to the unique challenges men face today, to Alison's latest online "extraordinary relationship" course LUX. Armstrong’s exploration of human behavior began in 1991, with her decision to study men: “To find out how I was bringing out the worst in them. And hopefully, how to bring out the best.” Her success in understanding men naturally led to studying women’s behavior and making vital connections between the two. As her work evolved over decades, Alison now illuminates human characteristics that precede and express themselves regardless of gender, age and upbringing. She distinguishes normal human instincts that compel both men and women to behave in ways that contradict and undermine our own purposes, goals, values, needs and relationships. Besides fulfilling the need to understand “Why” people behave as they do, Alison offers practical, partnership-based alternatives. Through her seminars, books, online programs and media contributions, she has been giving millions of people access to more fulfilling lives, loving relationships, stronger families and productive organizations. Alison is a sought-after speaker and thought-leader amongst people with the desire to live empowered lives. Her philosophy and approach are referenced and taught by other authors, speakers, business consultants and therapists. Her live events and over 100 hours of online programs are available at alisonarmstrong.com. Here are links related to topics and works mentioned in the episode:

Dan Mackenzie interviews Dan Millman, author of the massive, perennial best-seller WAY OF THE PEACEFUL WARRIOR. Their conversation delves into Millman's use of the character Socrates in the context of his own real-life mentors, how his life path and work have evolved in tandem, and how the author has boiled down his insights into simple, accessible yet deeply transformative teachings. Dan Millman is a former world champion athlete, university coach, martial arts instructor, and college professor.

After an intensive, twenty-year spiritual quest, Dan’s teaching found its form as the Peaceful Warrior’s Way. His work continues to evolve over time to meet the needs of a changing world.

Dan’s eighteen books, including Way of the Peaceful Warrior, have inspired and informed millions of readers in 29 languages worldwide. The feature film “Peaceful Warrior” was adapted from Dan’s first book, based upon incidents from his life.

Much of Dan’s time is devoted to speaking. His keynotes, seminars, and workshops span the generations to influence men and women from all walks of life.

ANDRAS JONES is a multi-disciplinary artist (songwriter, actor, author, podcast host & producer, sometimes artist rep) and the kind of rabble-rousing critical thinker who is the bane of partisans of all stripes. His podcasts The Radio8Ball Show and The World Is Wrong both seek to re-contextualize art (in the case of Radio8Ball with music, and film with The World Is Wrong) in a more thoughtful way than is the industry standard. This is the spirit that motivates his other creative endeavors, including his latest album “Recognize, De-escalate & De-code”. In this conversation we delve deeply into what it means for an artist to hold fast to higher ideals, and the profound personal cost of publicly rejecting and calling out the evils of partisan extremism.