The Power of Now | Eckhart Tolle

In this Special Edition episode of the Books for Men podcast, host Douglas Vigliotti discusses the 10 reasons why men should read fiction. He acknowledges that the publishing industry and writers do not cater to male readers due to a lack of an economic incentive, leading to an ever-widening gap of men not reading fiction. Vigliotti introduces his value proposition theory on why most men prefer nonfiction, but insists the real value of fiction is unseen—similar to soft skills, the more important but less developed skills for many people. He believes reading fiction promotes empathy for people different from oneself, teaches how to be alone with one's thoughts, encourages critical thinking and individuality, and strengthens the imagination muscle. He also argues that the form (reading) allows for easier engagement with difficult ideas and differing opinions, something people should be doing more of, and promotes delayed gratification in a society that wires people for short-term thinking and attention, improving focus. Vigliotti concludes by urging listeners to share the episode and support the podcast's mission of inspiring more men to read.

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In this Special Edition episode of the Books for Men podcast, host Douglas Vigliotti explores the question of whether women “really” read more than men. Vigliotti discusses the macro data and research that supports the idea that women are reading more than men, particularly in the fiction genre. He also delves into the reasons behind this trend, including but not limited to societal factors, nature versus nurture, and the rise of audiobooks. Vigliotti acknowledges the importance of diversity and inclusion in the publishing industry but raises concerns about a widening gender gap that could be unrepairable if the current trend continues. In part two, he plans to address why men are reading less, particularly fiction, and the top 10 reasons everyone should be reading fiction.

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider supporting the podcast. Any of the three things below will help provide awareness for the initiative—inspiring (more) men to read and bringing together men who do. (Ladies, of course, you're always welcome!)

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In this episode of the Books for Men podcast, host Douglas Vigliotti expresses gratitude to listeners for supporting the show and spreading the word about it. He mentions that he plans to bring back interviews later in the year and introduces the concept of "Special Edition” episodes that will focus on art, entertainment, and books. Vigliotti then provides a recap of the books featured in February 2024. The first nonfiction book discussed is The Order of Time by Carlo Rovelli, which simplifies the complex topic of time and offers philosophical musings. The second nonfiction book is Outlive by Peter Attia, which explores a proactive approach to healthcare and longevity. The one work of fiction for the month was Big Swiss by Jen Beagin, a quirky novel that delves into themes of trauma, sexuality, and accountability. Vigliotti reflects on the genre of women's fiction and its historical context. He concludes with a reminder to connect with him on Instagram @douglasvigliotti, and provides information on how to access episode transcripts and the monthly newsletter.

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider supporting the podcast. Any of the three things below will help provide awareness for the initiative—inspiring (more) men to read and bringing together men who do. (Ladies, of course, you're always welcome!)

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In this episode of the Books for Men podcast, host Douglas Vigliotti discusses the book Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity by Peter Attia, MD. Vigliotti explains that the book has gained tremendous popularity due to Attia's large following and widespread promotion, but in no way, does that lower the importance of the work itself. He describes Outlive as “required reading” for anybody serious about their health and well-being. Vigliotti clarifies that the book focuses on getting the most out of one's mind, body, and life—not becoming superhuman. He discusses Attia's philosophy of proactive healthcare, contrasting it with the reactive approach of traditional medicine, specifically in reducing the risk of the four horsemen: cardiovascular disease, cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and metabolic disorders. Vigliotti highlights the uber-importance of exercise, sleep, and emotional and mental health in promoting longevity. He concludes by encouraging listeners to share the podcast, connect with him on Instagram @douglasvigliotti, and visit the website for more information.

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider supporting the podcast. Any of the three things below will help provide awareness for the initiative—inspiring (more) men to read and bringing together men who do. (Ladies, of course, you're always welcome!)

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In this episode of the Books for Men podcast, host Douglas Vigliotti introduces Big Swiss by Jen Beagin. He describes the book as a literary novel that falls under women's fiction, a genre that centers around female life experiences and is marketed toward female readers. Vigliotti believes the lack of a genre called “men’s fiction” is a market effect over time—as in, men don’t read fiction today. He suggests that if a genre existed using the same criteria as women’s fiction, it may encourage more men to read fiction. Vigliotti describes Big Swiss as odd, funny, and cult-like in its feel—citing that’s what he loves most about it. The story follows a disenchanted transcriptionist for a sex therapist who writes letters to her deceased mother and becomes involved with one of her employer's patients, a repressed Swiss woman who is much younger and married. The novel explores themes of trauma, sexuality, and accountability. Vigliotti also mentions the inclusion of many cultural touchpoints and a unique portrayal of a Boston accent. He encourages listeners to share the podcast and connect with him on Instagram @douglasvigliotti or via BooksforMen.org.

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider supporting the podcast. Any of the three things below will help provide awareness for the initiative—inspiring (more) men to read and bringing together men who do. (Ladies, of course, you're always welcome!)

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In this episode of the Books for Men podcast, host Douglas Vigliotti discusses the book The Order of Time by Carlo Rovelli. Vigliotti, who admits to having failed a physics class in college, finds the book enjoyable and accessible even for those with little knowledge or interest in physics. He appreciates Rovelli's ability to simplify complex topics without oversimplifying them, making them understandable to a wider audience. Vigliotti is particularly drawn to the book's exploration of time, a subject that fascinates him personally. He praises Rovelli's writing style, which combines scientific and philosophical elements, and highlights some of the book's key insights, such as the concept of impermanence and the idea that the world is a collection of events rather than things. Vigliotti encourages listeners to read the book themselves and shares information on how to support the podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider supporting the podcast. Any of the three things below will help provide awareness for the initiative—inspiring (more) men to read and bringing together men who do. (Ladies, of course, you're always welcome!)

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In this episode of the Books for Men podcast, host Douglas Vigliotti expresses gratitude for the support of listeners and discusses the concept of Books for Men. Vigliotti explains that while the show is aimed at inspiring more men to read, it is not exclusive to men and women may also enjoy the featured books. He then provides a recap of the books featured in January 2024, which included a nonfiction book called Free Speech and Why It Matters by Andrew Doyle, and two works of fiction: American Tabloid by James Ellroy and Dead Girl Blues by Lawrence Block. Vigliotti briefly discusses the themes and messages of each book and shares some notable quotes. He concludes by inviting listeners to visit the website for more information and to sign up for the newsletter.

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider supporting the podcast. Any of the three things below will help provide awareness for the initiative—inspiring (more) men to read and bringing together men who do. (Ladies, of course, you're always welcome!)

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In this episode of the Books for Men podcast, host Douglas Vigliotti discusses the book Dead Girl Blues by Lawrence Block. Vigliotti highlights the unconventional nature of the book and the fact that Block chose to self-publish it. He shares a quote from Block in which the author acknowledges that the book may not be commercially appealing and may put off some readers, but he believes it is one of the best things he has ever written. Vigliotti explains that the book starts with a graphic scene of rape and murder, which presents a challenge for readers to sympathize with the protagonist. He praises Block for taking on such a difficult subject matter and explores the challenges of writing a novel like this one. Vigliotti concludes by emphasizing he does not condone any acts of violence or sexual abuse against women, but he does support artists who tackle difficult subjects. Vigliotti encourages listeners to share the podcast and support the mission of inspiring more men to read.

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider supporting the podcast. Any of the three things below will help provide awareness for the initiative—inspiring (more) men to read and bringing together men who do. (Ladies, of course, you're always welcome!)

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In this episode of the Books for Men podcast, host Douglas Vigliotti discusses the importance of free speech and its role in society. He introduces the book Free Speech and Why It Matters by Andrew Doyle, which explores the current attack on free speech and the hypocrisy surrounding it. Vigliotti emphasizes that free speech is a foundational element of a free society and that no other liberty can exist without it. He discusses the tendency to label and dismiss people based on their opinions, which hinders understanding and prevents the evaluation of ideas on their own merit. Vigliotti also touches on the state of the arts, the impact of self-censorship, and the need for artists across sectors to maintain their freedom of expression. He concludes by urging listeners to participate in public discussion with kindness, respect, and understanding, even when they disagree with others.

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider supporting the podcast. Any of the three things below will help provide awareness for the initiative—inspiring (more) men to read and bringing together men who do. (Ladies, of course, you're always welcome!)

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3. Leave a rating or review

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In this episode of the Books for Men podcast, host Douglas Vigliotti discusses the book American Tabloid by James Ellroy. He acknowledges that Ellroy's writing style can be challenging at times, but admires his ability to depict the world as he sees it without pandering to the reader. He believes that Ellroy accomplishes what he intends to do with his writing, even if readers may disagree with his language or style. American Tabloid explores the events leading up to the assassination of JFK, and Vigliotti expresses his belief that the government covered up the truth about the assassination. He discusses the book's theme of the undercurrent of power and dirty work that happens beneath the surface, and how the assassination of JFK was the first domino contributing to the American people's distrust of the government. Vigliotti praises Ellroy's ability to weave real-life characters and events into a fictional narrative, creating an entertaining read. He concludes by encouraging listeners to share the podcast and connect with him on Instagram @douglasvigliotti, and provides information on how to access full transcripts and sign up for the newsletter on the website BooksforMen.org.

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider supporting the podcast. Any of the three things below will help provide awareness for the initiative—inspiring (more) men to read and bringing together men who do. (Ladies, of course, you're always welcome!)

1. Share with a friend or on social media
2. Subscribe or follow on your favorite podcast platform
3. Leave a rating or review

Visit BooksforMen.org to sign up for the Books for Men newsletter, a monthly round-up of every episode with full book and author info, all the best quotes, and newsletter-only book recommendations!