Rick Walker Podcast

Rick Walker
Rick Walker Podcast

I’m Rick Walker, and I have a passion for leadership, responsibility, and purpose. Through these conversations, we’ll walk through what it means to be a leader in 2023 and how to get there. We’ll tackle important issues of frameworks, managing others, building other leaders, and understanding the basis of reality through the various world religions and thought systems.

  1. DEC 4

    Inside the Mind of a Scientist: Balancing Genius and Humility w/ Prof Brian Keating

    JOIN 20,000 OTHER LEADERS - GET MY NEWSLETTER! : https://rickwalker.com/newsletter/ (Interview originally aired on July 26, 2024) How does childlike wonder fuel groundbreaking science? Brian Keating, a distinguished physicist and author of Losing the Nobel Prize, explores the essential traits scientists need to succeed, including curiosity, resilience, and a healthy dose of humility. In our latest episode, Keating takes us on a journey through the cosmic microwave background (CMB)—the universe’s oldest light—and shares how this relic of the Big Bang helps us decode the cosmos. But that’s not all. He explores the legacy of Galileo, the surprising role of mathematics in physics, and why scientists must balance confidence with humility. He also addresses the challenges of science communication and the moral obligation scientists have to engage with the public. Whether you're a science enthusiast or a curious novice, this episode offers a fascinating exploration of humanity's quest to understand the cosmos. Tune in to discover how curiosity shapes science—and why it’s critical for the future. Key Takeaways  Introduction and background of Brian Keating (00:00) Childlike curiosity and scientific endeavor (02:26) Curiosity and resilience in scientific exploration (03:12) Passion, curiosity, and genius in scientific pursuits (04:57) Role of scientists in public communication (08:35) The effectiveness of mathematics (10:03) String theory and the interoperability of domains (15:53) Einstein's predictions and the speed of light (23:03) Galileo's contributions and legacy (27:40) Brian Keating’s content creation process (32:17) Cosmic microwave background (CMB) and its significance (37:40) Impact of anti-science narratives (40:44) Final thoughts and acknowledgments (45:57)  Additional Resources Connect with Brian Keating Website: https://briankeating.com/ Podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating Twitter: https://x.com/DrBrianKeating Join Brian’s Newsletter for your chance to “Win a RARE 4-Billion-Year-Old Piece of Stardust” each month: https://briankeating.com/list 📚 Books  Losing the Nobel Prize: A Story of Cosmology, Ambition, and the Perils of Science's Highest Honor - http://amzn.to/2sa5UpA Into the Impossible: Think Like a Nobel Prize Winner: Lessons from Laureates to Stoke Curiosity, Spur Collaboration, and Ignite Imagination in Your Life and Career - https://urlgeni.us/amzn/TLANPW — 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.

    51 min
  2. NOV 27

    What History Teaches Us About Cultural Wars w/ Dr. Stephen Hicks

    JOIN 20,000 OTHER LEADERS - GET MY NEWSLETTER! : https://rickwalker.com/newsletter/ It’s no secret that we’re living in turbulent times. Everyone seems to have an opinion about what’s right, wrong, fair, or oppressive, and somewhere in the middle of it all, the concept of individual agency feels like it’s on life support. Dr. Stephen Hicks joins us to get to the root of these issues. His insights are essential for understanding where we are today and how we got here. He is a philosopher and expert in intellectual history. Dr. Hicks unpacks the origins of critical theory, postmodernism, and their evolution into today’s sociopolitical movements. Discover how Marxist, postmodernist, and Nietzschean philosophies intersected to shape movements like critical race theory and even historical atrocities like Nazism. Learn how the denial of individual agency fuels collective victimhood and undermines societal progress. The episode also examines the resurgence of tribalism and ideological polarization, drawing lessons from history. This isn’t just a history lesson but a wake-up call. Understanding the roots of today’s cultural conflicts helps us navigate them better. It’s not about choosing sides; it’s about asking the right questions and finding ways to build bridges instead of walls. Tune in to explore the philosophies shaping our world and their consequences for democracy, individual rights, and social responsibility. Key Takeaways  Introduction (00:00) The origins of Postmodernism and its philosophical skepticism (01:30)  Evolution of movements like critical race theory (06:12) The denial of individual agency in academic disciplines (15:36) Cultural shifts in American attitudes toward rights and responsibilities (27:10) Historical roots of Nazism and the philosophical influences of Marx and Nietzsche (46:40) Trigger points for the Holocaust and ideological justification (53:41) Dr. Hicks' creative process and thoughts on modern education platforms (1:02:49) Additional Resources Connect with Stephen Hicks Website: https://www.stephenhicks.org/ X: https://x.com/srchicks Follow Stephen Hicks on IG: https://www.instagram.com/stephenhicksphilosophy/ Books by Stephen Hicks: Explaining Postmodernism: Skepticism and Socialism from Rousseau to Foucault https://www.amazon.com/Explaining-Postmodernism-Skepticism-Socialism-Rousseau/dp/1549509934/ Nietzsche and the Nazis https://www.amazon.com/Nietzsche-Nazis-Stephen-R-C-Hicks/dp/B0C2S71DZL/ Liberalism Pro and Con https://www.amazon.com/Liberalism-Pro-Stephen-R-Hicks-ebook/dp/B0CWRMR6RN/ Entrepreneurial Living (co-edited with Jennifer Harrolle) https://www.amazon.com/Entrepreneurial-Living-Stories-Innovation-Achievement-ebook/dp/B071LPYDPM/ Art: Modern, Postmodern, and Beyond (co-authored with Michael Newberry, 2021) https://www.amazon.com/Art-Postmodern-Overview-Trivial-Manifesto-ebook/dp/B09DR18MP6/ — 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.

    1h 8m
  3. NOV 20

    Millions of Boys Are Struggling and This is How We’re Failing Them w/ Dr. Warren Farrell

    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.

    1h 45m
  4. NOV 13

    Breaking Free from the Mask of Masculinity w/ Jimmy Rex

    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.

    1h 30m
  5. NOV 6

    The Surprising Reason Men Are Flocking to Orthodoxy w/ Fr. Michael Butler

    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.

    1h 35m
  6. OCT 30

    Phillip Magness Exposes the Historical Lies That Influence Modern Economics

    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.

    1h 34m
  7. OCT 23

    Jack Donovan on The Way of Men, Solar Masculinity, Rituals and Writing Books

    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.

    1h 45m
  8. OCT 16

    Fatherhood & Flagpoles: Learning How To Take Risks

    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.

    14 min

About

I’m Rick Walker, and I have a passion for leadership, responsibility, and purpose. Through these conversations, we’ll walk through what it means to be a leader in 2023 and how to get there. We’ll tackle important issues of frameworks, managing others, building other leaders, and understanding the basis of reality through the various world religions and thought systems.

You Might Also Like

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.

Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada