If you ever started something from scratch, a business, a podcast, a side project, you remember

that moment right before you launch when the doubts start stacking up. Is this a good idea? What if no one buys anything? I remember that feeling well. When I started the art of manliness, I didn't have some grand plan. I just decided to take the leap and figure things out as I went, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I've made. When it comes to actually running a business, especially selling things,

the platform that we've used, and I recommend, is Shopify. Shopify is the commerce platform behind millions of business around the world and about 10% of all e-commerce in the United States,

from big household names to brands just getting started. I've used it myself from the AOM store,

and it made it possible to build a professional online shop without hiring a developer. Shopify gives you hundreds of great-looking templates, built-in tools to help with product descriptions and photos, and an all-in-one system for payments, inventory, and analytics, so you're not juggling a dozen different platforms. As your business grows, Shopify grows with you. If you've been sitting on an idea waiting for the right time, this is it.

Sign up for your $1 per month trial today at Shopify.com slash manliness.

That's Shopify.com slash manliness.

Brett McKay here and welcome to another edition of the AOM podcast, which since 2008 has

featured conversations with the world's best

authors, thinkers, and leaders that glean their edifying, life-improving insights without

the fluff and filler. The AOM podcast is just one part of the McKay mission to help individuals

practice timeless virtues through thought, word, and deed. Also, be sure to explore our articles

and art of manliness.com, read the deeper dyes we do in our

substack newsletter at dyingbreed.net and turn our content into real world action by joining

the Strenuous Life program at StrenuousLife.com. Now on to the show.

If you're looking for a way to improve your fitness, boost your mental health, and reconnect with a deeply human activity, all without going to the gym or pounding your knees on a daily

run, then Rucky may be the practice you've been looking for.

Rucking is simple. Throw some weight on your back and start walking. But a little context

and a few key tips can make it a safer, more effective, and more satisfying experience.

Here to unpack those principles and practicals is Michael Easter, author of Walk with Weight, the definitive guide to Rucky.

Michael and I first explored the evolutionary and military history of carrying load.

We then dive into why Ruckie is perhaps the most successful form of training for strength and stamina and such an effective tool for alleviating back pain, building bone help, and fostering

...