Podcast
The Art of Charm
Hosted by The Art of Charm · EN
The Art of Charm is where self-motivated people, just like you, come to learn from the company’s coaches about to how to master human dynamics, relationships, and becoming your best self with the help of Johnny and AJ, the company’s founders. Johnny and AJ bring their 11 years of coaching experience from their famous Bootcamps, where they host clients in Los Angeles from all over the world and they share their stories, best practices and themselves on this weekly podcast. Not only does The Art of Charm help everyday people, including active members of the military, learn how to become higher performers, better spouses, partners, and coworkers, they dig deep into human behavior, the science behind it, and demystify what we do and why we do it.
115episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Why Honesty Is Becoming So Hard | Christian Miller
3d ago01:07:06Tap to summarizeMost people think honesty is simply about telling the truth. It’s much more than that. AJ sits down with philosopher and ethics professor Christian Miller to explore why honesty is becoming harder in the age of AI, social media, and online influence. From cheating with AI and fake news to white lies, self-deception, and accountability, Christian explains why honesty isn't just about what we say—it's about the motivations behind our actions and the habits that shape our character. This conversation explores the psychology of dishonesty, why good people still lie, when honesty should give way to compassion, and the practical steps anyone can take to build more trust in their relationships, work, and everyday life. Episode resources: https://join.theartofcharm.com/xfa https://christianbmiller.com/ Chapters00:00 – Why honesty is in crisis today08:00 – Honesty vs. simply telling the truth17:00 – White lies, trust, and long-term relationships26:30 – How to build honesty as a daily habit35:00 – When lying is the ethical choice46:00 – AI, social media, and the future of honesty55:00 – Bullshitting, self-deception, and accountability01:00:00 – Becoming a more honest person A Word From Our Sponsors Stop being over looked and unlock your X-Factor today at unlockyourxfactor.com The very qualities that make you exceptional in your field are working against you socially. Visit the artofcharm.com/intel for a social intelligence assessment and discover exactly what's holding you back. Get $250 off select AirDoctor air purifiers by using promo code CHARM at AirDoctorPro.com. Shopify is where you go to start your business, and everything you need to sell is already there from day one. Start your free trial by going to SHOPIFY.COM/charm Connect with top talent ready to help your business grow by going to UPWORK.COM. This year, skip breaking a sweat AND breaking the bank. Get your summer savings and shop premium wireless plans at mintmobile.com/charm honesty, integrity, ethics, psychology, AI, social media, self awareness, trust, relationships, communication skills, critical thinking, deception, self deception, white lies, accountability, moral psychology, personal growth, character, truth, decision making Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribe →The Secret to Reading Any Room | Social Intelligence Briefing
6d ago00:16:19Tap to summarizeMost people think group conversations are just a series of one-on-one interactions. They’re not. AJ and Johnny break down the hidden social dynamics that determine who gets heard, who gets ignored, and why the best ideas often lose to the highest-status voices. Drawing on research from MIT and behavioral science, they introduce a practical framework for reading any room in under 90 seconds by identifying status hierarchies, hidden alliances, and the unspoken rules shaping every meeting, networking event, and dinner conversation. If you've ever left a meeting wondering why your ideas were overlooked—or watched someone else get credit for something you already said—this episode will change how you walk into every group conversation. Episode Resources: https://join.theartofcharm.com/xfa Unlockyourxfactor.com Chapters00:00 – Why group conversations follow different rules02:20 – The hidden status hierarchy in every room05:10 – How to read a room in 90 seconds06:30 – Spotting power, alliances, and influence09:15 – The right way to contribute without losing status11:00 – The other two layers almost everyone misses13:00 – Your homework before the next meeting social intelligence, reading the room, communication skills, executive presence, group dynamics, leadership, influence, workplace communication, networking, social skills, status, body language, emotional intelligence, meeting skills, confidence, professional communication, executive communication, interpersonal communication, leadership development, team dynamics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribe →The Secret to Knowing Who You Are | Luke Burgis
1w ago01:03:34Tap to summarizeMost people think finding the right community will make them happier. It won’t—if you lose yourself in the process. AJ sits down with author Luke Burgis to explore why so many people unknowingly adopt the desires, beliefs, and goals of the people around them. From social media and AI to family dynamics, identity, and the pressure to fit in, Luke explains how our need to belong can quietly override our authentic selves. This conversation explores why we copy other people's ambitions, how technology amplifies that tendency, and what it takes to build a solid sense of self without sacrificing meaningful relationships. Chapters00:00 – Why we lose ourselves trying to belong08:00 – Finding your tribe without losing your identity16:00 – AI, social media, and borrowed beliefs24:00 – The difference between a pseudo self and a solid self33:00 – Why smart people still copy other people's desires42:00 – Conflict, authenticity, and healthy relationships51:00 – Building confidence through real-world conversations59:00 – Practical steps to strengthen your sense of self Episode resources: https://join.theartofcharm.com/xfa https://lukeburgis.com/ https://www.amazon.com/One-Ninety-Nine-Forging-Identity-Contagion/dp/1250373034/ Check in with AJ and Johnny! AJ on LinkedIn Johnny on LinkedIn AJ on Instagram Johnny on Instagram The Art of Charm on Instagram The Art of Charm on YouTube The Art of Charm on TikTok identity, self awareness, psychology, belonging, confidence, social intelligence, personal growth, AI, social media, relationships, authenticity, emotional intelligence, family dynamics, human behavior, mimetic desire, communication skills, self confidence, mental health, critical thinking, purpose Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribe →How to Master Any Conversation | Social Intelligience Briefing
2w ago00:24:21Tap to summarizeMost people think making a great impression is about saying the right thing. It isn’t. AJ and Johnny break down the science of "vibing"—the overlooked social skill that builds trust, creates opportunities, and makes people genuinely enjoy being around you. From first dates and networking to interviews and business meetings, they explain why shared emotions matter more than shared interests, how to ask questions that deepen connection, and the simple conversation framework that turns awkward interactions into memorable ones. Chapters00:00 – Why social intelligence beats technical skill03:00 – The real purpose of "vibing" with people06:00 – Research, seating, and setting yourself up for connection09:00 – Open-ended questions that build instant rapport13:00 – Shared emotions vs. shared interests16:00 – Telling your story without sounding self-promotional19:00 – Handling reserved people and larger groups21:00 – Practicing connection before high-stakes conversations Episode Resources: theartofcharm.com/test Unlockyourxfactor.com social intelligence, communication skills, networking, relationship building, conversation skills, emotional intelligence, rapport, first impressions, executive presence, career growth, confidence, storytelling, networking tips, influence, social skills, interpersonal communication, charisma, leadership communication, professional relationships, human connection Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribe →How to Raise Confident Kids | Brandon Webb
2w ago01:01:25Tap to summarizeMost parents think protecting their kids means shielding them from failure. It doesn’t. AJ sits down with former Navy SEAL sniper instructor Brandon Webb to explore how the same mental management principles used to train elite performers can help raise resilient, confident kids. From visualization and emotional regulation to praise, discipline, and co-parenting after divorce, Brandon shares practical lessons on building self-trust, resilience, and strong family relationships. Whether you're raising children, leading a team, or working on yourself, this conversation is packed with timeless strategies for handling setbacks, making better decisions, and becoming the kind of person others trust when life gets hard. Chapters00:00 – From Navy SEAL training to raising resilient kids07:00 – Emotional regulation and modeling calm under pressure 14:00 – Discipline, curiosity, and asking better questions 21:00 – Why punishment without understanding fails27:00 – Praise, failure, and building real confidence34:00 – Creating environments where kids thrive 41:00 – Raising independent decision-makers 46:00 – Visualization and the mental management system 53:00 – Why your voice becomes your child’s inner voice parenting, resilience, emotional regulation, mental toughness, confidence, visualization, discipline, leadership, communication, child development, parenting tips, emotional intelligence, self confidence, decision making, family relationships, co-parenting, positive psychology, mental management, personal growth, resilience training Episode resources: https://brandontylerwebb.com Puddle Jumpers: Simple and Proven Ways to Raise Confident & Joyful Kids Check in with AJ and Johnny! AJ on LinkedIn Johnny on LinkedIn AJ on Instagram Johnny on Instagram The Art of Charm on Instagram The Art of Charm on YouTube The Art of Charm on TikTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribe →Your Boss Doesn't Want to Promote You | Social Intelligence Briefing
3w ago00:17:59Tap to summarizeMost people think being indispensable guarantees a promotion. It often does the opposite. AJ and Johnny unpack one of the most common career traps hidden inside workplace praise: "You're too valuable where you are." While it sounds like recognition, it often signals that your current value is creating stability for the organization—not a path for your growth. They explain why high performers get contained, how incentives shape promotion decisions, and the one question that turns vague appreciation into a strategic career conversation. Chapters00:00 – The compliment that quietly stalls your career02:00 – Why being valuable can become a trap04:00 – The incentives behind promotion decisions06:30 – The 3 mistakes high performers make08:30 – The question that changes the conversation11:00 – Turning vague praise into a promotion plan13:00 – Recognizing hidden language at work14:30 – How to know if it's time to move on Episode Resources: theartofcharm.com/test Unlockyourxfactor.com career growth, promotion, leadership, workplace communication, executive presence, office politics, career advancement, negotiation, influence, professional development, management, communication skills, workplace psychology, career strategy, leadership development, social intelligence, performance, high performers, workplace relationships, hidden language Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribe →How Your Mind Manipulates You | Owen Fitzpatrick
3w ago01:01:32Tap to summarizeMost people think the biggest lies come from the media, politicians, or social media. They don’t. AJ sits down with psychologist and author Owen Fitzpatrick to explore the hidden force shaping our decisions every day: inner propaganda. Drawing from decades of research on beliefs, persuasion, cults, identity, and psychology, Owen explains why smart people are often the easiest to fool, how emotions shape our reality, and why the stories we tell ourselves can either limit us or transform us. This conversation explores self-deception, identity, influence, emotional intelligence, and the practical tools you can use to challenge your assumptions, update your beliefs, and become more resilient in a world full of competing narratives. Chapters00:00 – The question that changed Owen’s life07:00 – Why self-influence comes before influencing others13:00 – What “inner propaganda” really means20:00 – Why smart people are easier to fool27:00 – Identity, beliefs, and the stories we tell ourselves34:00 – Antifragile thinking and overcoming setbacks40:00 – Information overload and attention management47:00 – Influence, manipulation, and emotional triggers54:00 – Emotional granularity and better decision making Episode resources: https://owenfitzpatrick.com/ Inner Propaganda Check in with AJ and Johnny! AJ on LinkedIn Johnny on LinkedIn AJ on Instagram Johnny on Instagram The Art of Charm on Instagram The Art of Charm on YouTube The Art of Charm on TikTok beliefs, psychology, self awareness, influence, persuasion, identity, emotional intelligence, critical thinking, mindset, self deception, cognitive bias, personal growth, resilience, decision making, emotional regulation, propaganda, social psychology, attention management, behavior change, mental health Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribe →Why the Best Point in the Room Still Loses | Social Intelligence Briefing
4w ago00:23:28Tap to summarizeMost people think influence comes from having authority. It doesn’t. AJ and Johnny continue their Hidden Language series by breaking down the architecture running underneath every high-value conversation. They reveal the three roles that shape outcomes — framers, validators, and reactors — and explain why the most influential person in the room is often not the most senior. If you've ever watched someone less qualified walk away with the opportunity, partnership, or promotion, this episode explains why. The difference often isn't expertise. It's who sets the context, who validates it, and who ends up reacting inside someone else's frame. Chapters 00:00 – The hidden architecture of high-value rooms 03:00 – Framers, validators, and reactors explained 06:00 – Why smart people lose influence 09:00 – The Framer’s Opening: shifting the room in 60 seconds 12:00 – Framing around what decision-makers care about 14:00 – Meetings, negotiations, and client conversations 16:00 – Why early frames have gravity 18:00 – The Observation → Frame → Question formula20:00 – Turning influence into a repeatable skill Episode Resources: theartofcharm.com/test Unlockyourxfactor.com influence, executive presence, communication skills, leadership, social intelligence, persuasion, workplace communication, negotiation, networking, decision making, leadership communication, status dynamics, frame control, professional development, social skills, business communication, relationship building, influence skills, career growth, strategic communication Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribe →Why Self-Awareness Beats Talent | Ian Cron
Jun 1501:00:57Tap to summarizeMost people think personality tests are about labeling people. They’re not. AJ sits down with Enneagram expert Ian Morgan Cron to explore how personality develops, why childhood experiences shape our patterns, and how self-awareness can transform relationships, leadership, and decision-making. Rather than focusing on behaviors alone, the Enneagram uncovers the fears, motivations, and stories driving those behaviors beneath the surface. This conversation dives into personality, emotional intelligence, leadership, conflict, relationships, and why real growth begins when you stop collecting information and start applying it. Chapters00:00 – What the Enneagram is and how personality develops06:00 – Self-awareness, strengths, and blind spots12:00 – Core fears, motivations, and Enneagram types18:00 – Childhood patterns, attachment, and personal stories24:00 – Leadership, influence, and self-awareness30:00 – Why information isn’t transformation33:00 – Relationship patterns and recurring conflict38:00 – Understanding others without losing curiosity49:00 – The three centers of intelligence53:00 – Using personality insights to make better decisions A Word From Our Sponsors Stop being over looked and unlock your X-Factor today at unlockyourxfactor.com The very qualities that make you exceptional in your field are working against you socially. Visit the artofcharm.com/intel for a social intelligence assessment and discover exactly what's holding you back. If you’ve put off organizing your finances, Monarch is for you. Use code CHARM at monarch.com in your browser for half off your first year. Indulge in affordable luxury with Quince. Upgrade your wardrobe today at quince.com/charm for free shipping and hassle-free returns. Grow your way - with Headway! Get started at makeheadway.com/CHARM and use my code CHARM for 25% off. This year, skip breaking a sweat AND breaking the bank. Get your summer savings and shop premium wireless plans at mintmobile.com/charm Curious about your influence level? Get your Influence Index Score today! Take this 60-second quiz to find out how your influence stacks up against top performers at theartofcharm.com/influence. Episode resources: https://ianmorgancron.com/ Check in with AJ and Johnny! AJ on LinkedIn Johnny on LinkedIn AJ on Instagram Johnny on Instagram The Art of Charm on Instagram The Art of Charm on YouTube The Art of Charm on TikTok enneagram, personality types, self awareness, emotional intelligence, leadership, personal growth, relationships, communication skills, psychology, conflict resolution, attachment theory, self improvement, human behavior, leadership development, mindfulness, decision making, social intelligence, personality assessment, relationship skills, self discovery Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Transcribe →The Hidden Language of High-Status People Pt 2 | Social Intelligence Briefing
Jun 1100:20:42Tap to summarizeMost people think high-value rooms reward the best ideas. They don’t. AJ and Johnny continue their series on hidden language by breaking down the qualification tests running underneath professional conversations. These tests sound like normal questions about credentials, consensus, commitment, value, or concern — but they're often evaluating something else entirely: your status awareness, frame control, and ability to recognize what’s really happening in the room. If you've ever left a conversation wondering why you suddenly felt the need to explain yourself, prove your value, overcommit, or seek approval, this episode gives you the framework to recognize the hidden test and respond without shrinking, chasing, or becoming defensive. Chapters00:00 – The hidden qualification tests in high-value rooms03:00 – The credential audit: proving yourself vs discussing ideas05:30 – The consensus test: borrowed authority and approval07:30 – The commitment test: defining the standard before accepting it09:30 – The status test: when praise becomes containment11:45 – The vulnerability test: concern, protection, and control14:00 – Why analytical people get filtered out16:00 – Recognizing frame shifts before they change the conversation Episode Resources: theartofcharm.com/status Unlockyourxfactor.com communication skills, executive presence, influence, social intelligence, leadership communication, networking, status dynamics, persuasion, relationship building, confidence, workplace communication, frame control, professional development, social skills, career growth, interpersonal communication, influence skills, leadership presence Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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