In this Debrief episode, we kick off with the bizarre trend of men shaving their eyelashes, a quirky gateway into a deeper discussion about how AI might be dulling our problem-solving and empathetic abilities. From there, we confront social media’s culture of complaint, emphasizing the value of personal accountability and small, consistent action. Shifting to leadership, we question the obsession with KPIs, advocating instead for empathy-driven innovation. Finally, inspired by figures like Anthony Mackie, we explore modern masculinity, physical readiness, and the power of using digital platforms for growth. Tune in for sharp insights on staying human in a hyper-digital world.

——— EPISODE CHAPTERS WITH SHORT KEY POINTS ———

(0:00:00) – Learning From Internet Trends and AI
Nature’s protective role of eyelashes and the impact of AI on cognitive abilities, emphasizing balance between usage and human strengths.

(0:11:33) – Challenging Leadership Norms and Embracing Humanity
Combat complaining culture through action and accountability, avoid over-reliance on metrics, prioritize empathy and innovation in business.

(0:25:46) – Exploring Leadership and Self-Improvement
Steve Jobs’ pragmatic response, Jeff Bezos’ convoluted message, Seth Godin’s email strategy, daily blogging, and understanding the trade-offs of money.

(0:37:04) – Defining Traditional Masculinity and Respect
Fathers and mentors guide young men to embrace traditional masculinity and the importance of physical fitness for self-defense and confidence.

(0:42:12) – Leveraging Social Media for Personal Growth
Social media and the internet can be tools for personal growth and learning, not just sources of negativity.

——— LINKS TO RESOURCES ———

https://www.mensjournal.com/grooming/yes-some-men-are-really-shaving-their-eyelashes-off

AI (LLMs) are Making me Dumber
https://vvvincent.me/llms-are-making-me-dumber/ 

Dashboard for your life – Hiten’s Post on Threads
https://www.threads.com/@hiten/post/DI8SWvau23R?xmt=AQGzijBXFD9Tt4AvaWcr8KZ8p0Y2CIq01Brg1moZsbt3MQ 

Focus on what you can control.
https://arnoldspumpclub.com/blogs/newsletter/this-is-your-body-on-coffee

You Don’t Need To Win. You Need To Learn.
https://www.instagram.com/p/DIBQJSbJceG

The blissful zen of a good side project
https://joshcollinsworth.com/blog/the-blissful-zen-of-a-good-side-project

Leadership Over Measureship.
https://www.invencion.com/off-kilter/volume-194-leadership-over-measureship

Leadership is a fundamentally creative act
https://blog.medium.com/leadership-is-a-fundamentally-creative-act-4d007df4ae91 

Jeff Bezos’ last annual shareholder letter as Amazon’s CEO is a must read.
He reflects on Amazon’s relentless innovation, customer obsession, and long term thinking, principles that built a trillion dollar empire. “The world wants you to be typical—don’t let it happen”
https://www.instagram.com/p/DHWiF4cI5M8

Steve Jobs’ brief email and a delightful memory
https://blog.hayman.net/2025/05/06/from-steve-jobs-great-idea.html

The new Captain America Anthony Mackie gives a hot take on the role of men, claiming “we’ve been living through the death of the American male”, adding that he raised his sons on traditional values, of being the providers, protectors and leaders of household.

What’s your take? Is Anthony too old-fashioned or does he have a point?

https://www.instagram.com/p/DHLl056NLoA

Wisdom from Seth Godin. I often go through transcripts for highlights I hope to apply to my own life. Here are a few from the sage in yellow glasses.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DHBmlS4sxaH

This is one of the most dangerous things that I’ve seen recently. Desperate fans, tired of waiting to go up an escalator to cross a bridge. Tried to look running backwards up the escalator with dramatic consequences!https://www.instagram.com/p/DIp421ZMQ2z/