Robert Greene is one of the best and most influential writers of our generation, and he shows why in this conversation he and I had at his Los Angeles home. In this interview, he talks about how to break free from the influences of family, how to find your true calling, and how to understand and channel your "Dark Side". Last time we had him on the show, he was in the process of writing his latest book, "The Laws of Human Nature", which is out now... so go grab your copy if you haven't already.
(1:22) Introduction
(7:23) Welcome back, Robert Greene!
(9:04) The motivation behind writing "Laws of Human Nature"
(11:34) Narcissism; and the various forms of such
(17:31) Narcissism doesn't necessarily have to be a negative thing
(18:42) Becoming self-aware
(20:16) Natural human flaws, should bring no guilt
(24:24) Robert's introverted nature exposes a different meaning of success, compared to other best-sellers.
(27:25) Some of the richest people have an obsession with doing their best work; not with making the most money.
(29:53) Niyi reveals his source(s) of power as he looks inwards
(33:42) The human being is an emotional animal
(37:42) Your "apprenticeship years"
(42:35) "Pain" and "Pleasure"
(47:00) We don't notice the hard work behind today's successors
(49:48) The "shadow", or "dark-side" versions of ourselves
(58:32) Everyone has vulnerabilities and weaknesses
(59:34) A look into Abraham Lincoln's life (and his secretive side)
(1:04:05) John Coltrane: An historic example of adapting to the times. Evolution of self.
(1:07:04) Know your craft, and how to adapt to the game... shoutout to Kobe
(1:09:17) Understanding the way you were raised, and forming your own identity
(1:17:32) Niyi's favorite chapter in Robert Greene's "Laws of Human Nature"
(1:18:35) Robert gives incredible leadership advice
(1:25:08) In conclusion...