Books for Men

Douglas Vigliotti
  • 4.8 (22)
  • BOOKS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Do you enjoy reading but can't find the time? "Books for Men" is the perfect literary podcast for men in a hurry who want to read more and diversify their reading habits. In short episodes, every Monday, host and author Douglas Vigliotti, spotlights a different book that men will enjoy, sharing everything from novels to nonfiction, literary classics to self-help, crime fiction to memoirs, and providing key quotes and insights on authors, themes, writing styles, storytelling techniques, and life lessons from each book. Sign up for the monthly newsletter at BooksforMen.org.

  1. #284 | Sh*t I Tell My Friends #3: On the Difference Maker (a.k.a. Follow Your Interest)

    4D AGO

    #284 | Sh*t I Tell My Friends #3: On the Difference Maker (a.k.a. Follow Your Interest)

    🎙 Douglas Vigliotti explores the idea of following your interests instead of chasing passion, calling it the “difference maker.” He explains how interests are more accessible and sustainable, sharing insights from books and real-life examples like Wayne Gretzky. Vigliotti introduces the Interest Principle, arguing that genuine interest drives motivation, endurance, learning, and long-term success. He also discusses the importance of aligning interests with others and highlights how true investment in what you enjoy leads to growth.  ✓ Sign up for the monthly newsletter at BooksforMen.org. 📚 Learn more about "Aristotle for Novelists" at AristotleforNovelists.com or READ IT NOW! ⚡️ Connect with the host on Instagram @douglasvigliotti or learn more about him at DouglasVigliotti.com. 🎧 Listen to Douglas Vigliotti's other podcast: Slightly Crooked: Good Stories, Told Well. ⭐️ Please consider sharing "Books for Men" with other men who enjoy reading, or subscribing and rating on your favorite podcast platform. Either goes a long way in helping new listeners find the show and inspire (more) men to read. 🗣️ If you liked this episode, listen to episode #98: Skin in the Game | Nassim Nicholas Taleb! 💥 TOPICS COVERED IN THE EPISODE: Introduction to the Episode & Newsletter Reminder (00:09) - Host introduces the episode, explains the "Shit I Tell My Friends" series, and promotes the companion newsletter. Interest vs. Passion (01:20) - Explains the difference between following interests and passions, emphasizing interests as simpler and more actionable. Quote from "Perfection" and Job vs. Passion (02:25) - Shares a quote from Vincenzo Electronico’s "Perfection" about how passion changes when it becomes a job. The Interest Principle and Motivation (03:43) - Introduces the "interest principle," discussing how personal choice increases motivation and investment. Applying the Interest Principle (04:49) - Gives practical examples (writing, reading, singing) of leveraging interests to learn and excel. Advice: Follow Your Interest (05:49) - Recommends following interests as a simple answer to the question, "What should I do?" Wayne Gretzky Example and Innate Interest (05:49) - Shares Wayne Gretzky’s story to illustrate how innate interest drives greatness and persistence. Innate Interest and Longevity (07:53) - Discusses how lasting longer in a field is often due to genuine interest, not just talent. Willpower and the Power of Interest (08:50) - Explores the concept of will, suggesting interest is the key factor in willingness and motivation. Aligning Interests and Skin in the Game (08:50) - Uses Nassim Taleb’s ideas to explain the importance of aligning interests for effective action and collaboration. Misaligned Interests in Organizations (10:01) - Describes how misaligned interests and incentives can hinder organizational effectiveness. The Value of "Wasting Time" on Interests (10:01) - Quotes Nassim Taleb on how time spent on genuine interests is actually a valuable investment. Conclusion and Contact Information (11:08) - Wraps up the episode, encourages subscribing, and shares ways to connect with the host.

    12 min

  2. FEB 2

    #283 | The Lie of ‘Perfection’—Vincenzo Latronico on the Inescapable Feeling of Discontent in a Social Media World

    🎙 Douglas Vigliotti discusses “Perfection” by Vincenzo Latronico, a literary novel about a millennial couple navigating modern life as digital artists in Berlin. Vigliotti explores the book’s themes of technology, social media, and the persistent feeling of “not enough,” despite seemingly having it all. He highlights Latronico’s background as a translator, shares favorite quotes, reflects on the novel’s detached narrative style and the millennial experience of the world, and overall, praises the novel while highly recommending it. ✓ Sign up for the monthly newsletter at BooksforMen.org. 📚 Learn more about "Aristotle for Novelists" at AristotleforNovelists.com or READ IT NOW! ⚡️ Connect with the host on Instagram @douglasvigliotti or learn more about him at DouglasVigliotti.com. 🎧 Listen to Douglas Vigliotti's other podcast: Slightly Crooked: Good Stories, Told Well. ⭐️ Please consider sharing "Books for Men" with other men who enjoy reading, or subscribing and rating on your favorite podcast platform. Either goes a long way in helping new listeners find the show and inspire (more) men to read. 🗣️ If you liked this episode, listen to episode #214 | What Makes 'The Great Gatsby' the Great American Novel?! 🗣️ If you liked this episode, listen to episode #254 | Dorian Gray: The Original Influencer Who Sold His Soul for Likes—Is Oscar Wilde’s Classic Novel a Cautionary Tale for the Social Media Age?! 💥 TOPICS COVERED IN THE EPISODE: Introduction & Podcast Purpose (00:09) - Host introduces the podcast, the book "Perfection," and mentions the companion newsletter.About the Author: Vincenzo Latronico (01:06) - Background on the author, his translation work, and influence on his writing style.Translation, Craft, and Literary Influences (02:11) - Discussion of translation as a craft, its impact on Latronico, and literary influences like Georges Perec.Book Overview: Plot and Style (04:29) - Summary of the story, main characters Tom and Anna, and the book’s stylistic approach.Narrative Tone and Example Passage (05:56) - Explanation of the book’s outside-looking-in narrative style, with a sample excerpt.Themes: Contentment and the "Not Enough" Feeling (07:11) - Exploration of the book’s central theme: the struggle with contentment in modern, tech-driven life.Technology, Social Media, and Millennial Experience (08:28) - How technology and social media shape the protagonists’ and millennials’ perceptions of satisfaction.The Inescapable Influence of Social Media (09:55) - Reflection on the pervasive cultural impact of social media, regardless of personal use.Final Excerpt and Closing Thoughts (11:04) - A favorite quote from the book, final thoughts, and encouragement to read the novel.Outro and Ways to Connect (00:12:03) - Information on subscribing, connecting with the host, and links to his book and newsletter.

    13 min
  3. #282 | Sh*t I Tell My Friends #2: On What Matters (a.k.a. Do Something)

    JAN 26

    #282 | Sh*t I Tell My Friends #2: On What Matters (a.k.a. Do Something)

    🎙 Douglas Vigliotti shares personal reflections on the theme "What Matters," urging listeners to prioritize action over endless thinking or talking. Drawing on quotes from Aristotle, Neil Gaiman, and Georges St-Pierre, he emphasizes that character is built through what we do, not what we say or think. Vigliotti encourages men to start working toward their desires, embrace mistakes, and overcome fear by taking action—reminding listeners that life’s story is written by our actions, not our thoughts, which is a good thing because we all have s****y thoughts. He concludes with a short mantra that has helped him with this in his life. ✓ Sign up for the monthly newsletter at BooksforMen.org. 📚 Learn more about "Aristotle for Novelists" at AristotleforNovelists.com or READ IT NOW! ⚡️ Connect with the host on Instagram @douglasvigliotti or learn more about him at DouglasVigliotti.com. 🎧 Listen to Douglas Vigliotti's other podcast: Slightly Crooked: Good Stories, Told Well. ⭐️ Please consider sharing "Books for Men" with other men who enjoy reading, or subscribing and rating on your favorite podcast platform. Either goes a long way in helping new listeners find the show and inspire (more) men to read. 🗣️ If you liked this episode, listen to episode #250 | What Is a ‘Death’ Cookie?—Phil Stutz’s 3 Absolutes of Human Life and How to Create Real Magic in Your Life! 🗣️ If you liked this episode, listen to episode #280 | Sh*t I Tell My Friends #1: On Advice (a.k.a. Stop Listening to Idiots)! 💥 TOPICS COVERED IN THE EPISODE: Introduction to the Episode & Newsletter Reminder (00:09) - Host introduces the episode, explains the "Shit I Tell My Friends" series, and reminds listeners about the companion newsletter.Theme Introduction: What Matters (01:20) - Introduces the episode’s theme, shares Aristotle’s quote, and sets up the focus on action over talk.The Power of Story and Belief (02:14) - Discusses how stories shape our lives and the importance of believing the right stories.Character as a Byproduct of Action (03:19) - Explains Aristotle’s idea that character is defined by actions, not words or thoughts.The Importance of Doing the Work (04:26) - Emphasizes starting small, taking action, and learning through doing rather than overthinking or seeking advice.Learning Through Action (05:36) - Describes how doing the work teaches what matters, what advice is credible, and what actions are effective.Three Absolutes of Human Life (06:36) - Shares Phil Stutz’s three absolutes: pain, uncertainty, and the need for constant work, focusing on the importance of work.Courage, Fear, and Confidence (07:35) - Discusses courage as the balance between fear and confidence, referencing Aristotle and George Saint-Pierre.The Mantra: “Be or Do, Don’t Think” (08:31) - Introduces a personal mantra to combat overthinking and encourage action over rumination.Neil Gaiman’s Quote on Mistakes (00:09:00) - Shares Neil Gaiman’s quote about the value of making mistakes and the importance of doing something.Closing & Call to Action (00:09:52) - Wraps up the episode, encourages subscribing, and provides information about the host and related resources.

    11 min

  4. JAN 19

    #281 | What Is the Cost of Comfort?—Aldous Huxley’s ‘Brave New World’ on the Dangers of Endless Technological Progress

    🎙 Douglas Vigliotti discusses Aldous Huxley’s classic novel “Brave New World”. He provides background on Huxley, summarizes the novel’s plot and dystopian themes, and reflects on its relevance to current trends and modern issues, like unending technological progress and its societal trade-offs. Vigliotti shares personal insights, where he thinks the book falls short, favorite quotes, and encourages listeners to consider the book’s questions about individuality, freedom, comfort, and stability, and to continue engaging with thought-provoking literature. ✓ Sign up for the monthly newsletter at BooksforMen.org. 📚 Learn more about "Aristotle for Novelists" at AristotleforNovelists.com or READ IT NOW! ⚡️ Connect with the host on Instagram @douglasvigliotti or learn more about him at DouglasVigliotti.com. 🎧 Listen to Douglas Vigliotti's other podcast: Slightly Crooked: Good Stories, Told Well. ⭐️ Please consider sharing "Books for Men" with other men who enjoy reading, or subscribing and rating on your favorite podcast platform. Either goes a long way in helping new listeners find the show and inspire (more) men to read. 🗣️ If you liked this episode, listen to episode #275 | What Does the Classic Literary Novel ‘Gulliver’s Travels’ Have in Common with Rock and Roll Legend Bruce Springsteen?! 💥 TOPICS COVERED IN THE EPISODE: Introduction & Podcast Purpose (00:09) - Host introduces the podcast, its aim, and the featured book "Brave New World."Newsletter Promotion (01:24) - Details about the companion newsletter and how to sign up.About Aldous Huxley (01:40) - Background on Huxley, his career, and other notable works."Brave New World" and "Island" (02:26) - Context on "Brave New World" as a dystopia and "The Island" as its utopian counterpoint.Plot Summary & World State (03:27) - Overview of the novel’s plot, world-building, and main characters.Themes: Trade-offs of Progress (04:54) - Discussion of the novel’s central questions about technological progress and societal trade-offs.Modern Relevance: Social Media & AI (06:06) - Parallels between the novel’s themes and current issues like social media and AI.Political and Philosophical Reflections (07:18) - Exploration of progressivism vs. conservatism and deeper philosophical questions raised by the book.Literary Critique & Thematic Power (08:35) - Host’s opinion on the novel’s writing quality versus its thematic impact.Favorite Quotes & Closing (09:46) - Sharing favorite quotes from the book, final thoughts, and calls to action for listeners.Final Thanks & Contact Info (10:46) - Thanking listeners, sharing contact information, and newsletter reminder.

    11 min
  5. #280 | Sh*t I Tell My Friends #1: On Advice (a.k.a. Stop Listening to Idiots)

    JAN 12

    #280 | Sh*t I Tell My Friends #1: On Advice (a.k.a. Stop Listening to Idiots)

    🎙 In the inaugural episode of "Sh*t I Tell My Friends", Douglas Vigliotti introduces a candid advice format inspired by real conversations with friends, while tackling the very concept of “advice” itself. He discusses the pitfalls of generic advice, emphasizing the importance of understanding who’s giving guidance and why. Vigliotti shares personal insights, highlights the value of vulnerability, and encourages listeners to be discerning about advice, inviting them to reach out if/when needed. He also outlines the podcast’s future focus on fiction for 2026. ✓ Sign up for the monthly newsletter at BooksforMen.org. 📚 Learn more about "Aristotle for Novelists" at AristotleforNovelists.com or READ IT NOW! ⚡️ Connect with the host on Instagram @douglasvigliotti or learn more about him at DouglasVigliotti.com. 🎧 Listen to Douglas Vigliotti's other podcast: Slightly Crooked: Good Stories, Told Well. ⭐️ Please consider sharing "Books for Men" with other men who enjoy reading, or subscribing and rating on your favorite podcast platform. Either goes a long way in helping new listeners find the show and inspire (more) men to read. 🗣️ If you liked this episode, listen to episode #278 | Special Edition: “One Plus One Doesn’t Equal Two” (+ Big Updates for 2026)! 💥 TOPICS COVERED IN THE EPISODE: Introduction to the Episode (00:09) - Douglas introduces the new "Sh*t I Tell My Friends" advice series and outlines upcoming podcast changes for 2026.Newsletter and Podcast Companion Info (01:39) - Details about the monthly companion newsletter, including episode summaries, book info, and how to sign up.Purpose and Format of the Advice Column (03:02) - Douglas explains the intent behind the advice column, emphasizing honesty, vulnerability, and the experimental nature of the format.Episode Length and Experimental Nature (04:09) - Notes on expected shorter episode lengths and the evolving, experimental approach to this new series.Douglas’s Philosophy on Advice (05:07) - Douglas shares his view that most advice is just personal projection, not tailored to the recipient’s situation.The Problem with Most Advice (06:21) - Explains why advice often fails, highlighting the lack of context and empathy from advice-givers.The Need for Direction and Choosing Advisors (07:33) - Discusses society’s desire for direction, the risks of following the wrong people, and the importance of knowing your advisors.Quotes on Advice and Friendship (08:35) - Shares relevant quotes from Don Draper and Solon about advice, friendship, and the value of private support.Closing Remarks and Contact Information (09:49) - Wraps up the episode with reminders on how to subscribe, contact Douglas, and learn more about his book and the podcast.

    11 min

  6. JAN 5

    #279 | ‘Motherless Brooklyn’, a Truly Inventive Crime Novel—and Why You Should Never Underestimate Anyone

    🎙 Douglas Vigliotti kicks off 2026 by spotlighting Jonathan Lethem’s crime novel "Motherless Brooklyn." Vigliotti explores Lethem’s genre-blending career and the book’s unique and inventive protagonist, Lionel Essrog, a private investigator with Tourette’s syndrome. He discusses the novel’s plot, themes of found family, mentorship, loyalty, reinvention, and embracing differences, sharing favorite quotes and personal reflections. The episode also highlights the importance of not underestimating people and judging them by appearances.  ✓ Sign up for the monthly newsletter at BooksforMen.org. 📚 Learn more about "Aristotle for Novelists" at AristotleforNovelists.com or READ IT NOW! ⚡️ Connect with the host on Instagram @douglasvigliotti or learn more about him at DouglasVigliotti.com. 🎧 Listen to Douglas Vigliotti's other podcast: Slightly Crooked: Good Stories, Told Well. ⭐️ Please consider sharing "Books for Men" with other men who enjoy reading, or subscribing and rating on your favorite podcast platform. Either goes a long way in helping new listeners find the show and inspire (more) men to read. 🗣️ If you liked this episode, listen to episode #97: Lush Life | Richard Price! 💥 TOPICS COVERED IN THE EPISODE: Introduction to the Episode (00:09) - Host introduces the podcast, episode, featured book, and companion newsletter.About Jonathan Lethem (01:08) - Overview of Lethem’s career, genres, notable works, and writing style.Lethem’s Career & Writing Risks (02:08) - Discussion on authors taking stylistic risks, financial realities, and Lethem’s teaching role.Detective Story & Film Adaptation (03:15) - Introduction to "Motherless Brooklyn" as a detective story and its 2019 film adaptation.Plot Overview & Main Character (04:09) - Summary of the book’s plot, protagonist Lionel Shrag, and unique elements like Tourette’s.Themes & Character Analysis (05:12) - Exploration of themes: found family, mentorship, loyalty, difference, and reinvention.Favorite Quotes & Their Meaning (08:37)- Host shares and analyzes favorite quotes, focusing on character relationships and underestimated qualities.Closing Remarks & Contact Info (10:49) - Host wraps up, promotes his book, and shares ways to connect and subscribe.

    12 min

  7. 12/29/2025

    #278 | Special Edition: “One Plus One Doesn’t Equal Two” (+ Big Updates for 2026)

    🎙 In this special year-end episode of "Books for Men," host Douglas Vigliotti shares his pop-up piece "One Plus One Doesn’t Equal Two" and reflects on embracing uncertainty and mystery in life. Vigliotti announces major updates for 2026: the podcast will focus exclusively on fiction, with a new "Advice for Men" series on alternate weeks. He discusses the unique value of fiction in an AI-driven world and encourages listeners to find meaning beyond facts. Or as Vigliotti calls it in the essay, “…life’s ultimate task and skill.” ✓ Sign up for the monthly newsletter at BooksforMen.org. 📚 Learn more about "Aristotle for Novelists" at AristotleforNovelists.com or READ IT NOW! ⚡️ Connect with the host on Instagram @douglasvigliotti or learn more about him at DouglasVigliotti.com. 🎧 Listen to Douglas Vigliotti's other podcast: Slightly Crooked: Good Stories, Told Well. ⭐️ Please consider sharing "Books for Men" with other men who enjoy reading, or subscribing and rating on your favorite podcast platform. Either goes a long way in helping new listeners find the show and inspire (more) men to read. 🗣️ If you liked this episode, listen to episode #233 | Morning, Boys. How’s the Water?—The Life-Changing Importance of David Foster Wallace’s 2005 Commencement Speech ‘This Is Water’! 💥 TOPICS COVERED IN THE EPISODE: Introduction to the Special Edition Episode (00:09) - Douglas introduces the episode, explains its special format, and reminds listeners about the monthly companion newsletter.Year-End Reflections and the Importance of Checkpoints (01:19) - Douglas reflects on the significance of the New Year as a time to reset and recalibrate, especially for adults.Big Podcast Updates for 2026: Fiction Focus (02:16) - Announcement that the podcast will focus exclusively on fiction books in 2026, with rare exceptions for creative nonfiction.Why Fiction Matters in the Age of AI (03:38) - Douglas discusses the unique value of fiction versus nonfiction, especially as AI makes information more accessible.Advice for Men Series Announcement (04:45) - Introduction of a new series, "Advice for Men," to be featured on alternate weeks in 2026.Episode Structure for 2026 (05:50) - Explanation of the new alternating format: one week fiction, the next week advice for men.Pop-Up Piece Introduction: “One Plus One Doesn't Equal Two” (05:50) - Douglas introduces and contextualizes his pop-up piece, inspired by a visit to the Met and a Jackson Pollock painting.Reading of "One Plus One Doesn't Equal Two" (07:06) - Douglas reads his reflective essay on uncertainty, art, knowledge, and the metaphorical nature of life.Reflections on the Piece and Closing Thoughts (09:45) - Douglas connects the piece to the episode’s themes, thanks listeners, and encourages subscribing and connecting.Contact Information and Final Reminders (10:50) - Douglas shares how to reach him via Instagram or his website, and reminds listeners about the newsletter.

    11 min

  8. 12/22/2025

    #277 | Arduous, Repetitive, Digressive, and Insanely Long—But Why Should You Read ‘Infinite Jest’ by David Foster Wallace?

    🎙 Douglas Vigliotti offers an in-depth review of David Foster Wallace’s novel "Infinite Jest,” discussing the book’s complex structure, disparate narratives, and major themes of addiction, isolation, entertainment, and societal critique. Vigliotti shares his personal experience tackling its challenging length, prose, and style, and highlights the novel’s enduring relevance for today, noting that perseverance in reading it might be central to its core message. He admits it was probably the most difficult book he’s ever read, but encourages men to give it a go if they feel compelled to do so. ✓ Sign up for the monthly newsletter at BooksforMen.org. 📚 Learn more about "Aristotle for Novelists" at AristotleforNovelists.com or READ IT NOW! ⚡️ Connect with the host on Instagram @douglasvigliotti or learn more about him at DouglasVigliotti.com. 🎧 Listen to Douglas Vigliotti's other podcast: Slightly Crooked: Good Stories, Told Well. ⭐️ Please consider sharing "Books for Men" with other men who enjoy reading, or subscribing and rating on your favorite podcast platform. Either goes a long way in helping new listeners find the show and inspire (more) men to read. 🗣️ If you liked this episode, listen to episode #233 | Morning, Boys. How’s the Water?—The Life-Changing Importance of David Foster Wallace’s 2005 Commencement Speech ‘This Is Water’! 💥 TOPICS COVERED IN THE EPISODE: Introduction to the Episode (00:09) - Douglas introduces the podcast, Infinite Jest, and promotes the companion newsletter.About David Foster Wallace (01:19) - Brief background on the author, his influence, and previous podcast episode featuring him.Plot Overview & Narrative Structure (02:18) - Summary of Infinite Jest’s three main narratives and how they interconnect.Themes & Societal Critique (03:36) - Discussion of the book’s themes: addiction, entertainment, isolation, and societal commentary.Genre & Authorial Intent (04:58) - Exploration of the book’s tone, genre, and Wallace’s unconventional approach to storytelling.Challenges of Reading Infinite Jest (06:12 - Description of the book’s length, density, endnotes, and the difficulty of reading it.Personal Reading Experience (07:26) - Douglas shares his struggle reading the book and why he persisted.Style & Structure Reflection (08:50) - Analysis of how the book’s style mirrors the human mind and supports its themes.Quotes & Final Thoughts (10:01) - Douglas shares key quotes from the book and reflects on their meaning.Outro & Podcast/Book Promotion (11:06) - Closing remarks, ways to connect, and promotion of Douglas’s own book and the podcast newsletter.

    12 min
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4.8
out of 5
22 Ratings

About

Do you enjoy reading but can't find the time? "Books for Men" is the perfect literary podcast for men in a hurry who want to read more and diversify their reading habits. In short episodes, every Monday, host and author Douglas Vigliotti, spotlights a different book that men will enjoy, sharing everything from novels to nonfiction, literary classics to self-help, crime fiction to memoirs, and providing key quotes and insights on authors, themes, writing styles, storytelling techniques, and life lessons from each book. Sign up for the monthly newsletter at BooksforMen.org.

Information

  • Creator
    Douglas Vigliotti
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    284
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Show Website
    Books for Men