Despite assuming the presidency from the 20th century’s narrowest election victory, John F. Kennedy captivated the American public’s imagination, even before his untimely death. What was it that made JFK so compelling in his own time, and continues to contribute to his enduring appeal today?
We dive into the answer to that question by unpacking some of Kennedy’s personal qualities and complexities with Mark Updegrove, author ofIncomparable Grace: JFK in the Presidency. We begin our conversation with how JFK’s upbringing and war experience shaped him. We talk about his leadership style while in office, how he intentionally cultivated his cool and appealing image, and what his wife Jackie added to that image. Mark explains what was behind Kennedy’s infamous affairs, and how JFK championed physical fitness despite being in tremendous physical pain himself. We end our conversation with the traits that worked both for and against JFK’s success as president.
Resources Related to the PodcastEscape the Safety Trap
The Philosophy of Self-Improvement
Life Lessons From the World's Greatest Negotiator
Building a Second Brain
What It's Like to Spend a Year in Space
How to Make a Good Argument
The Fascinating Life of America's Forgotten Founding Father
How to Develop Greater Self-Awareness
Chef-Vetted Answers to Your Cooking FAQs
The Secrets to Booking Cheap Flights
How to Turn a Boy Into a Man
Why We Like Puzzles, and What We Get From Them
The Surprising Science Behind Building Stronger Relationships
What Nietzsche Can Teach Us About Joyful Living in a Tech-Saturated World
The Humble Heroics of Four of WWII's Most Decorated Soldiers
How to Get Your Anger Under Control
Genius, Courage, and Betrayal in the Search for the Source of the Nile
How Your Expectations Can Change Your Life
An Old-School Boxing Trainer on What It Means to Be a Man
Create your
podcast in
minutes
It is Free