Top 10 Most Listened AoM Podcast Episodes of 2025 (As of Currently)

The Art of Manliness (AoM) podcast has been captivating listeners with its thought-provoking and practical episodes in 2025. The top 10 most popular episodes cover a diverse range of topics, including health, masculinity, productivity, and philosophy, providing both actionable takeaways and expanded worldviews.

One standout episode is "The Science of Porn: Myths, Facts, and Overlooked Issues" (Episode 1058), featuring Dr. Brian Willoughby. With 15 years of research under his belt, Dr. Willoughby delves into the impact of pornography on mental health, erectile dysfunction, depression, and differences by age, gender, and religiosity. The episode also offers parenting advice regarding conversations about porn[1].

The AoM podcast's focus on deep, research-backed explorations of relevant men's issues is evident in this episode, as opposed to superficial or ideological content[1]. Other common themes in the podcast include self-improvement, traditional masculinity without toxicity, encouraging responsibility, community building, and emotional intelligence[3].

If you're interested in the full list of the top 10 episodes and their topics, we recommend consulting the AoM website post dated July 25, 2025[1].

In addition to the top 10 episodes, the AoM podcast archives contain over 1,000 episodes, offering a wealth of knowledge and insights. Here are some highlights from the 2025 selection:

Dr. Merijn van de Laar argues that the modern quest to optimize sleep might be causing more harm than good, as ancient sleep patterns could help reduce obsession and improve rest[2].
Rick Burgess emphasizes the importance of understanding what it really means to never run in the rain[4].
In the episode "The Power of the Notebook - The History and Practice of Thinking on Paper", the history and use of notebooks by figures like Leonardo da Vinci and Theodore Roosevelt are explored[5].
Alexander Vesely, a psychotherapist and documentarian, discusses the meaning of meaning and finding purpose in both joy and suffering[6].
Viktor Frankl's grandson, Alexander Vesely, shares insights into Frankl's life and the creation of meaning-centered therapy[7].
Ethan Mollick suggests using AI as a collaborator rather than a crutch, and discusses the implications for creativity, productivity, and the future of work[8].
Dr. Merijn van de Laar, author of How to Sleep Like a Caveman, discusses common sleep problems like nighttime wakeups, considering them normal[2].
Man's Search for Meaning has a significant impact on Alexander Vesely's life[7].
The episode "No, There Isn't a Loneliness Epidemic (And That May Be an Even Bigger Problem)" discusses the paradox of decreased face-to-face socializing not leading to increased loneliness[9].
The episode "The 80/80 Marriage - A New Model for a Happier, Stronger Relationship" proposes a shift from a 50/50 mindset to "radical generosity" for a stronger partnership[10].
The podcast can be followed on Apple, Spotify, and Overcast, and new episodes are released weekly for free[11].
Ethan Mollick, Wharton professor and author of Co-Intelligence, explains the benefits of exploring AI tools like ChatGPT[8].
The episode "How to Use Leverage Points to Get Unstuck in Work and Life" offers strategies for making small, strategic shifts to unlock big change, drawing from Dan Heath's book Reset[12].
Rick Burgess shares timeless lessons on being a man he learned from his father, including the importance of owning choices, staying humble, and quitting making excuses[4].

In summary, the AoM podcast's 2025 selection offers diverse and impactful discussions on men's issues, combining scientific research, mental health, masculinity, and practical life advice. The leading episode discussed is on the science and societal impact of pornography[1].

[1] AoM Website Post

[2] Dr. Merijn van de Laar's Interview on AoM Podcast

[3] Common Themes in AoM Podcasts in 2025

[4] Rick Burgess' Interview on AoM Podcast

[5] The Power of the Notebook Episode on AoM Podcast

[6] Alexander Vesely's Interview on AoM Podcast

[7] Viktor Frankl's Grandson on AoM Podcast

[8] Ethan Mollick's Interview on AoM Podcast

[9] Loneliness Epidemic Episode on AoM Podcast

[10] 80/80 Marriage Episode on AoM Podcast

[11] Follow AoM Podcast on Apple, Spotify, and Overcast

[12] Leverage Points Episode on AoM Podcast

The AoM podcast's diverse 2025 selection delves into the aspects of health, mental health, and sleep, such as the modern sleep optimization's unintended effects on mental state and improvement of sleep through replicating ancient sleep patterns.
In an episode, Dr. Merijn van de Laar discusses the impact of screen time on sleep quality and argues that nighttime wakeups are normal, rather than abnormal, to our bodies[2].
Another topic of interest is the exploration of productivity tools and AI, like ChatGPT, and their potential implications for creativity and the future of work.
Ethan Mollick, a Wharton professor, sheds light on the benefits of embracing AI as a collaborative force, rather than a dependency.
Aside from productivity, the AoM podcast encompasses philosophical discussions, like the meaning of meaning and finding purpose in various aspects of life.
Alexander Vesely, a psychotherapist and documentarian, addresses the pursuit of purpose and shares insights from figures like Viktor Frankl, who influenced his life and work.
Alongside these themes, the podcast also addresses interpersonal relationships, both romantic and non-romantic, such as the 80/80 marriage model for a stronger, more generous partnership.
The episode "The 80/80 Marriage - A New Model for a Happier, Stronger Relationship" introduces a new mindset for relationships that emphasizes "radical generosity" to promote a more harmonious partnership.
In contrast to common beliefs, the episode "No, There Isn't a Loneliness Epidemic (And That May Be an Even Bigger Problem)" suggests that decreased face-to-face interactions do not necessarily translate to increased loneliness.
The AoM podcast also covers practical aspects of life, such as financial management, career development, and fashion.
Rick Burgess, a co-host of the podcast, shares lessons on career, self-improvement, and personal growth learned from his father, emphasizing the importance of ownership, humility, and overcoming excuses.
On a broader level, themes like urban gardening, household organization, fitness, and style are incorporated in the podcast, providing a comprehensive lifestyle perspective tailored for men.
Pets, travel, cars, shopping, food, and drink are other various elements discussed in the podcast, painting a well-rounded picture of modern manhood.
In summary, the 2025 AoM podcast selection focuses on intelligent conversations about men's issues, combining the latest research findings, interpersonal dynamics, and practical life advice, making it an excellent resource for men seeking personal growth and self-improvement.
From the podcast, one can learn about traditional masculinity, emotional intelligence, and the importance of building strong relationships not only with partners but with family, friends, and oneself.
Beyond the leading episode on the societal impact of pornography, one can discover valuable insights and practical tips across multiple areas of life, including fitness, health, philosophy, career, fatherhood, and relationships.