Leadership Lessons From The Great Books
This podcast explores leadership principles through the lens of classic Western literature, drawing lessons from works like those of Homer, Plato, and Shakespeare. Each episode analyzes a great book to uncover timeless insights for modern leaders, offering an alternative to typical business literature. The show aims to help listeners develop their leadership skills by engaging with profound ideas from the intellectual tradition.
Episodes
Henry V by Shakespeare — Legitimate Authority and the Leader Who Rebuilds (w/Zac Stucki)
The Life of Henry V by William Shakespeare w/Jesan Sorrells and Zac Stucki---Delving into William Shakespeare’s The Life of Henry V, Jesan Sorrells and Zac Stucki analyze the cultural foundation of leadership, the decline of cultural confidence in Western societies, and the complex responsibilities leaders face when making consequential decisions. They connect Shakespeare’s lessons on acc
Coriolanus by Shakespeare — Pride, the Crowd, and the General Who Couldn't Bend (w/John Hill)
The Tragedy of Coriolanus by William Shakespeare w/John Hill and Jesan Sorrells---Unpacking Shakespeare’s The Tragedy of Coriolanus, this episode draws out timeless leadership insights on integrity, social hierarchies, and the tension between individual values and the demands of the group. The hosts explore how Coriolanus’ unwavering personal code clashes with political and social expecta
Macbeth by Shakespeare — Ambition, Tyranny, and the Ruin of a Leader (w/Katie Mestres)
The Tragedy of Macbeth by William Shakespeare w/Katie Mestres & Jesan Sorrells---Exploring William Shakespeare’s Macbeth, this episode examines the enduring power of tragic storytelling in leadership and culture. The conversation focused on why Macbeth continues to resonate with modern audiences, the complexities of Lady Macbeth’s ambition and gender roles, and how marriage dynamics s
The Federalist and Anti-Federalist Papers - What Lies at the Bottom of Our Constitutional Order w/Dorollo Nixon
The Federalist and Anti-Federalist Papers - What Lies at the Bottom of Our Constitutional Order w/Dorollo Nixon---Jesan Sorrells and Dorollo Nixon, Jr. examine the foundational debates framing citizenship, rights, and law in the United States through readings from The Federalist Papers and recent (2026) Supreme Court case analysis. They discuss the evolving meanings of “a more perfect uni
The Odyssey by Homer translation by T.E. Shaw (Lawrence of Arabia) w/Jesan Sorrells
The Odyssey by Homer, translation by T.E. Shaw (Lawrence of Arabia) w/Jesan Sorrells---Examining Homer’s epic, The Odyssey, this episode dives into timeless leadership lessons for modern managers and entrepreneurs. The conversation focused on the decline from heroic responsibility to entitlement in Western culture, the enduring value of facing challenges head-on, and the need for leaders
Project Hail Mary and The Dark Knight Returns — Sincerity, Heroism, and the Millennial Rewrite of the Superhero (w/Tom Libby)
Project Hail Mary, Masters of the Universe, and Sunsetting the Dark Knight w/Tom Libby & Jesan Sorrells--- Explore the cultural impact and evolution of superhero films as Jesan Sorrells and Tom Libby compare the archetypes of Batman and Superman, analyze changing generational tastes in cinema, and dig into new millennial-focused heroic narratives in movies like Project Hail Mary and M
The Coming Millennial Superhero
Millennials are beginning to be heroic at the movies. ---Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air" from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast read
The Declaration of Independence by John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, Robert Livingston, and Roger Sherman, July 4, 1776
The Declaration of Independence by Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, and John Adams, July 4, 1776.---Music: Stars and Stripes Forever by John Philip Sousa, Performed by European Archive (https://musopen.org/)---Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air" from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up
The Declaration of Independence at 250 w/Dorollo Nixon, Jr. and Jesan Sorrells
The Declaration of Independence at 250 w/Dorollo Nixon, Jr. and Jesan Sorrells---In this special 250th anniversary episode, Jesan Sorrells and Dorollo Nixon, Jr. dive into the enduring leadership lessons from the U.S. Declaration of Independence by Thomas Jefferson and the Founding Fathers. They debate whether the U.S. is now in its “sixth republic,” explore the generational and ideologic
The Architecture of a Republic - American at 250
Leaders, never bet against the American people. ---Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air" from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading li
Les Misérables by Victor Hugo — Justice, Mercy, and Rebuilding a Society (w/Libby Unger)
Les Misérables by Victor Hugo w/Jesan Sorrells & Libby Unger---Jesan Sorrells and Libby Unger explore Victor Hugo's masterpiece Les Misérables, examining its insights on moral authority, the impact of historical trauma, and the power of redemption in leadership. They discuss Hugo's romanticism, the enduring influence of French history on civic institutions, and how individual heroism
Ben-Hur and Our Western Christian Assumptions
Leaders, we almost never examine the assumptions that underlie the scaffolding of the decisions we make.---Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air" from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Le
Ben-Hur by Lew Wallace — Vengeance, Redemption, and Leading After Ruin (w/John Hill)
Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ by Lew Wallace w/John Hill & Jesan Sorrells---In this episode, the hosts dive deep into Ben-Hur by Lew Wallace, exploring the novel’s themes of sacred vs. profane worldviews, the challenges of re-sacralizing modern Western culture, and how historical shifts in meaning affect society today. They examine the influence of religion, technology, and literature
Order of the Day, Gen. Dwight Eisenhower - June 6, 1944 (D-Day) - 82nd Anniversary
Order of the Day (1944) by General Dwight D. Eisenhower, Supreme Allied Commander.---Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air" from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From
The Challenge of Human Change
Books overcome the challenges of human change.---Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air" from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list
RE-BROADCAST - The Gulag Archipelago/One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich by Aleksandr I. Solzhenitsyn w/Jesan Sorrells
The Gulag Archipelago/One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich by Aleksandr I. Solzhenitsyn---Exploring Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn’s The Gulag Archipelago and One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich, Hasan Sorrells delves into the catastrophic effects of suppressing free speech in totalitarian regimes. This episode examines the necessity of robust free speech for effective leadership, the danger
Resacralizing the Profane World
Leaders, it's time to start performing the long, hard work of resacralizing the Western world. ---Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air" from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership
Slouching Towards Bethlehem by Joan Didion w/ Nicky Billou & Jesan Sorrells
Slouching Towards Bethlehem by Joan Didion ---Exploring Joan Didion's classic Slouching Towards Bethlehem, hosts delve into the unraveling of American culture, the evolution of masculine-coded communication in leadership, and strategies for grounding meaning and tradition in turbulent times. Special guest Nikki Ballou joins Hasan Sorrells to discuss the importance of personal reflection,
Books Smuggle Ideas Across Time
Books smuggle ideas across time. ---Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air" from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!---Subscribe
A Book of Common Prayer by Joan Didion w/Tom Libby & Jesan Sorrells
A Book of Common Prayer by Joan Didion w/Tom Libby & Jesan Sorrells---Delving into Joan Didion’s A Book of Common Prayer, Jesan Sorrells and guest Tom Libby analyze the intersections of perception, privilege, and empathy within leadership. They discuss the pitfalls of solipsism, the evolving role of journalistic language, and how understanding regional and cultural context is essentia
Solipsism at the Center of the Modern Mind
Leaders, the scourge of our time, is one Joan Didion spotted, because it lay deep within herself. ---Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air" from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadersh
The Optimist's Daughter by Eudora Welty w/Tom Libby & Jesan Sorrells
The Optimist's Daughter by Eudora Welty w/Tom Libby & Jesan Sorrells---Explore how Eudora Welty’s The Optimist’s Daughter delves into themes of grief, regional identity, and the challenge of preserving cultural memory in a rapidly globalizing world. Jesan Sorrells and Tom Libby discuss the impact of community traditions, the evolving role of observation in literature, and the struggle
Leadership Values
Leaders, we are in the midst of a cultural transition as we head into a generational Spring.---Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air" from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Les
Notes from Underground by Fyodor Dostoyevsky w/Hana Kabele Gala & Jesan Sorrells
Notes from Underground by Fyodor Dostoyevsky---Exploring Fyodor Dostoevsky’s Notes from Underground, hosts unpack the dangers of self-deception and the challenge of living with integrity as a leader. They analyze how self-awareness without mastery leads to alienation, the importance of matching words with actions, and the societal consequences of habitual lying. The episode weaves Dostoev
Witnessing What You Don't Understand
Leaders, can I get a witness?---Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air" from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!---Subscribe to
Invitation to a Beheading by Vladimir Nabokov w/Claire Chandler & Jesan Sorrells
Invitation to a Beheading by Vladimir Nabokov ---Exploring the surreal world of Vladimir Nabokov's Invitation to a Beheading, Jesan Sorrells and Claire Chandler analyze the novel’s absurdist critique of totalitarianism and the societal pressures for conformity. They examine Nabokov’s literary style, the challenge of translating Russian nuance into English, and how the narrative’s explorat
The Problem of Recosmologizing the Rational World
Leaders, Dostoyevsky had some ideas about how to navigate the prison known as the Land of Nod.---Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air" from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership L
East of Eden by John Steinbeck w/Tom Libby & Jesan Sorrells
East of Eden by John Steinbeck ---Exploring John Steinbeck’s magnum opus, East of Eden, Jesan Sorrells and Tom Libby break down how the novel’s multi-generational narrative reveals timeless truths of human nature, leadership, and morality. They discuss Steinbeck’s powerful depiction of rural California and the tension between rural and urban values, dissect the novel’s deep biblical allus
The Myth of the City
Leaders, the myth of the city is almost as old as the city itself. ---Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air" from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great Books
Mash Up Episode ft. 12 Rules For Leaders Deep Dive - Leadership Models from Sun-Tzu to Albert Murray w/David Baumrucker & Jesan Sorrells
Mash Up Episode ft. 12 Rules For Leaders Deep Dive - Leadership Models from Sun-Tzu to Albert Murray w/David Baumrucker & Jesan Sorrells---Explore the gap between leadership models and real-world practice as Jesan Sorrells and guest David Baumrucker examine the pitfalls of rigid frameworks and the necessity for leader courage in today’s volatile environment. They discuss the enduring
The Twilight of the Novel
The death of the novel isn't exaggerated, but the death of the book is. ---Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air" from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great
The Man Who Was Thursday by G. K. Chesterton w/Neal Kalechofsky & Jesan Sorrells
The Man Who Was Thursday by G. K. Chesterton ---This episode dives into G.K. Chesterton’s novel The Man Who Was Thursday, exploring its psychedelic narrative twists, literary influences, and enduring philosophical questions for leaders. Jesan Sorrells and guest Neal Kalechofsky discuss Chesterton’s critique of nihilism and anarchy, the book’s connections to figures like Nietzsche and Tolk
The Timshol, the Turpitude, and the Underground
Will our egos rule over us, or will we master them?---Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air" from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading
The Need for Hope
This one is going to be a little more spiritual than perhaps you might be used to from me.---Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air" from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lesso
The Third Man by Graham Greene w/Jesan Sorrells & Ryan J. Stout
The Third Man by Graham Greene---Exploring Graham Greene’s postwar classic, The Third Man, Jesan Sorrells and Ryan J. Stout unravel the psychology of unreliable narrators, leadership in times of nihilism, and the timeless challenge of ethical decision-making amid a world of grifters and cons. They dive into Greene’s cinematic writing style, his nuanced character portrayals, and how postwa
Leadership in Absurd Times
Leading in absurd times requires a commitment to objective truth.---Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air" from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great Books p
Oil! by Upton Sinclair w/Tom Libby & Jesan Sorrells
Oil! by Upton Sinclair ---Exploring the first 100 pages of Oil! by Upton Sinclair, Jesan Sorrells and Tom Libby dive into the gritty realities of entrepreneurship, the evolving concept of work-life balance, and how leadership demands both killer instinct and humility. They draw parallels between entrepreneurship and film direction, critique society’s shifting attitudes toward work and suc
The Social Reformer and the Demon in Democracy
God, save us from the tender mercies of the social reformer.---Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air" from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcas
Stomping the Blues by Albert L. Murray w/Tom Libby & Jesan Sorrells
Stomping the Blues by Albert L. Murray---Exploring Albert Murray’s landmark book, Stomping the Blues, Jesan Sorrells and Tom Libby unpack the true roots of jazz and blues as uniquely American art forms. The hosts break down how Murray distinguishes the blues idiom from jazz, the importance of improvisation in both music and leadership, and why understanding America’s cultural “soundtrack”
Chesterton's Lamppost and the Paradox of the Myth of Return
Leaders, we begin rebuilding Chesterton's Fence by restoring the fences in ourselves. ---Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air" from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons F
A Conflict of Visions: The Hidden Origins of Ideological Conflict by Thomas Sowell w/Jesan Sorrells & Ryan J. Stout
A Conflict of Visions: The Hidden Origins of Ideological Conflict by Thomas Sowell---Exploring Thomas Sowell’s A Conflict of Visions, Jesan Sorrells and Ryan J Stout break down the enduring clash between constrained and unconstrained worldviews at the root of ideological and political strife. They discuss how these visions shape society’s approach to justice, leadership, and individual re
Shorts #212 - Jazz as the Soundtrack to a New Golden Age
Leaders, you might be listening to it, but can you hear it?---Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air" from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast
Shorts #211 - An Irreconcilable Conflict of Visions
Leaders, two visions of human nature and human institutions have been locked in conflict since the time of Cain and Abel. ---Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air" from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZ
The End of Race Politics: Arguments for a Colorblind America by Coleman Hughes w/Dorollo Nixon & Jesan Sorrells
The End of Race Politics: Arguments for a Colorblind America by Coleman Hughes ---Exploring Coleman Hughes’s new book, The End of Race Politics: Arguments for a Colorblind America, Jesan Sorrells and Dorollo Nixon, Jr. examine how generational shifts challenge old narratives around race and victimhood. They discuss the historical roots of colorblindness, the rise of neo-racism in elite in
RE-BROADCAST - Malcolm X Speaks: Selected Speeches and Statements. George Breitman, ed. w/Dorollo Nixon & Jesan Sorrells
Malcolm X Speaks: Selected Speeches and Statements. George Breitman, ed. w/Dorollo Nixon & Jesan Sorrells---Exploring “Malcolm X Speaks” by Malcolm X, Jesan Sorrells, and Dorollo Nixon, Jr. examine the fiery rhetoric, legacy, and leadership lessons of Malcolm X in the context of Black History Month. They break down the revolutionary’s stance on political action versus violence, his cr
Shorts #210 - A Vision for Black America at the End of the Fourth Turning
Leaders, it’s time to articulate a vision for black Americans, here at the end of the Fourth Turning. ---Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air" from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Lead
RE-BROADCAST - The Omni-Americans by Albert L. Murray w/Tom Libby & Jesan Sorrells
RE-BROADCAST - The Omni-Americans by Albert L. Murray w/Tom Libby & Jesan Sorrells ---Exploring Albert Murray’s The Omni Americans, hosts Jesan Sorrells and Tom Libby unpack what it means to be “American” through the lens of race, culture, and music, and how these lessons inform modern leadership. They discuss the tension and synthesis inherent in America’s multicultural identity, the
Shorts #208 - The Minority Report on Conventional Wisdom
Leaders, our national critical thinking fails us around issues of race.---Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air" from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great B
Mash Up Episode ft. Leadership Models w/John Hill
Mash Up Episode ft. Leadership Models w/John Hill---Examining themes from 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership by Jesan Sorrells, Jesan Sorrells and guest co-host John Hill discuss the critical role of vision in effective leadership, exploring the difference between constrained and unconstrained approaches. They break down the impact of post-pandemic changes on o
Shorts #207 - Leadership Models for Restoration
Leaders, you must have a vision before you have a model of leadership.---Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air" from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great Bo
"The Great Instauration" by Francis Bacon w/Brian Bagley & Jesan Sorrells
"The Great Instauration" by Francis Bacon w/Brian Bagley & Jesan Sorrells---Delving into Francis Bacon’s "The Great Instauration," Jesan Sorrells and guest Brian Bagley examine how Bacon’s foundational ideas on empirical skepticism shape leadership and challenge modern secular idols. The conversation explores Bacon’s historical context, his impact on the scientific method, and how the
Shorts #206 - Restoration after Chaos - Exiting the Fourth Turning
Leaders restoration has more meaning behind it than as a synonym for gentrification. ---Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air" from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons Fr
Candide by Francois Voltaire w/Tom Libby & Jesan Sorrells
Candide by Francois Voltaire w/Tom Libby & Jesan Sorrells ---Dissecting Voltaire’s Candide with Jesan Sorrells and Tom Libby, this episode kicks off Season Five by exploring the absurdities of leadership, the legacy of Enlightenment thinking, and the challenge of sincerity in a meme-driven world. They unpack Voltaire’s satire to reveal practical lessons for modern leaders, including c
Shorts #205 - Why Smart Leaders Read Voltaire Instead of HBR
Leaders gain more value from Voltaire than from the Harvard Business Review.---Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air" from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Gr
TRAILER - Season Five - Literate Leaders Restore The Chaotic World
Season Five Trailer - Literate Leaders Restore The Chaotic World---Kicking off Season Five, host Jesan Sorrells explores how deep literacy from great books equips leaders to separate signal from noise, solve problems, and prepare for generational change. The episode previews upcoming literary analysis, including The Great Instauration by Francis Bacon, East of Eden by John Steinbeck, and
Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis w/Christen Blair Horne & Jesan Sorrells
Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis w/Christen Blair Horne & Jesan Sorrells---00:00 Welcome and Introduction - Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis.00:10 Belief, Theology, and Worldview.08:32 "Confused Reading Journey"10:44 "Fear of Critiquing Islam"20:01 "Somme: 60,000 British Lost"21:40 "Reflections on War and Legacy"29:44 "Chesterton vs. Lewis: Class & Wit"36:48 "Enlightenment's Law of
RE-BROADCAST - The Book of Matthew - Christmas Day Message
The Book of Matthew, Chapter 1:1 through Chapter 2:23, KJV Translation---Music: Orchestra Gli Armonici, 100908 Concerto della Madonna dei fiori, 18 G.F.Haendel, The Messiah, Hallelujah & Carol of the Bells
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RE-BROADCAST - A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens w/Tom Libby
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens w/Tom Libby---00:00 Welcome and Introduction - A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens.01:00 Charles's Struggles in Childhood.05:39 Charles Dickens: School to Journalism.11:44 Christmas' Modern Origins and Dickens' Influence.20:10 "Marley's Ghost Visits Scrooge."23:25 "Scrooge's Haunting Confrontation."30:18 Never Too Late for Leadership.38:29 Willingness
RE-BROADCAST - A Burglar's Christmas by Willa Cather w/Tom Libby
A Burglar's Christmas by Willa Cather w/Tom Libby---00:00 - Welcome and Introduction - A Burglar's Christmas by Willa Cather.04:25 - Opening A Burglar's Christmas by Willa Cather.08:21 - Willa Cather Wrote at the Crossroads of Modernity.12:43 - Setting Goals and the Vagaries of New Year's Resolutions.18:01 - Check Out Jesan's Time Management Training Videos on YouTube. 25:24 - Joan Didion
Shorts # 205 - Christmas Memories Don't All Match Up...
A collection of ramblings about Christmas memories...---Opening and closing themes composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the 2022 Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!---
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RE-BROADCAST - At Christmas Time by Anton Chekhov w/Jesan Sorrells
At Christmas Time by Anton Chekhov---00:00 Welcome and Introduction - At Christmas Time by Anton Chekhov.02:50 Unable to Read, Write, and See Hope at the End of a Long Year.10:33 Struggles, Soldiers, and Family.13:41 Three Faces of Patriarchy.15:00 You Got What You Want. Now, You Can Hardly Stand It, Though.16:37 Understanding Power Cycles in Russia.21:18 New Year at the Door.25:56 Leader
Shorts #204 - The Reason for the Season
Leaders, what is the reason for the season? ---Opening and closing themes composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the 2022 Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!---
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A Farewell to Arms by Ernest Hemingway w/Jesan Sorrells & Libby Unger
A Farewell to Arms by Ernest Hemingway w/Jesan Sorrells & Libby Unger---00:00 Welcome and Introduction - A Farewell to Arms by Ernest Hemingway.00:36 A Farewell to Arms: Insights from the Book.05:33 Hemingway's Vivid War Reflections.14:17 Hemingway, War, and Modernity.17:12 America's Role in WWI.22:27 Technology, War, and Casualties.32:12 System Conformity vs Resistance.39:02 "Decodin
Shorts #203 - Leading Through the Holiday Season
Leaders lead, even through the holiday season. ---Opening and closing themes composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the 2022 Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!---
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BONUS - The 1789 Thanksgiving Day Proclamation by President George Washington
From The Fred W. Smith National Library for the Study of George Washington, The 1789 Thanksgiving Proclamation.---00:00 Welcome and Introduction - The 1789 Thanksgiving Proclamation by President George Washington (1789).00:55 Origins of Thanksgiving in the United States of America.04:43 The 1789 Thanksgiving Proclamation by President George Washington.08:00 Listen and Subscribe to the Lea
The Earth is all That Lasts by Mark Lee Gardner w/Tom Libby & Jesan Sorrells
The Earth is All That Lasts by Mark Lee Gardner w/Tom Libby & Jesan Sorrells---00:00 Welcome and Introduction - The Earth is all That Lasts by Mark Lee Gardner 02:10 Gender Roles in Warfare.06:19 Tribal Wars and Custer’s Legacy.14:11 War, Losses, and Retreat.17:43 Research vs. Cultural Authenticity.25:09 Black Hills Perspectives and History.30:12 King Philip's War and Aftermath.32:11
Shorts #202 - An Appeal to My Generation...
Leaders, my generation will lead. But we must do it without the pose of cynicism or skeptical disinterest.---Opening and closing themes composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the 2022 Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!---
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The Earth is all That Lasts by Mark Lee Gardner (Introduction) w/Jesan Sorrells
The Earth is All That Lasts by Mark Lee Gardner w/Jesan Sorrells---00:00 "Leadership Lessons: Winter & Spring."04:57 "Crazy Horse and Sitting Bull."10:07 Mark Lee Gardner: American West Author.12:09 Mark: Expert on the American West.15:59 Treaties and Warrior Cultures.21:45 "Native Tribes and European Triumph."23:32 Tragedy, Triumph, and Human History.28:43 Bias in War Documentation.3
Shorts #201 - The Conditions That Make War
Leaders, we have to acknowledge where the energies of young men can go.---Opening and closing themes composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the 2022 Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!---
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War by Sebastian Junger w/ John Hill aka "Small Mtn" & Jesan Sorrells
War by Sebastian Junger w/ John Hill aka "Small Mtn" & Jesan Sorrells---00:00 "Trade-Offs and War Decisions"17:06 Sales Roles and Pride Dynamics24:48 "Reflections on Military Legacy"36:37 Future Warfare: AI and Drones50:11 "Understanding Conflict and Consequences"01:00:56 "Reflections on Military Service"01:07:27 Leadership and Intentional Selling Parallel01:20:24 Martial Arts and Com
Shorts #200 - Not Tripping and Falling Into the Hype Cycle
Leaders, avoid tripping and falling into the current LLM hype cycle. ---Opening and closing themes composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the 2022 Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!---
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Leadership Lessons From The Great Books (Bonus) - Veteran's Day Message
Veteran's Day Message---In Flanders' Field By John McRae---Opening and closing themes composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the 2022 Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!---
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War by Sebastian Junger (Introduction) w/Jesan Sorrells
War by Sebastian Junger (Introduction) w/Jesan Sorrells.---00:00 Welcome and Introduction - War by Sebastian Junger.01:00 Understanding Soldiers and Modern War.07:23 Fear, Killing, Love Dynamics.10:16 Sebastian Junger: Journalist & Author.13:01 Sebastian Junger's Endurance & Neutrality.17:51 War’s Heat, Fear, and Struggle.22:07 Modern Warfare's Changing Motivations.23:19 Evolution
Shorts #199 - Laying Down Your Life for Your Friends
Leaders, there is no greater act a man can do... ---Opening and closing themes composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the 2022 Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!---
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The First World War by John Keegan w/Tom Libby & Jesan Sorrells
The First World War by John Keegan w/Tom Libby & Jesan Sorrells---00:00 "Roots of War and Vengeance"06:45 "Origins of Modern Middle East"11:58 Origins of Modern War Planning21:52 Early Communication & Aristocratic Diplomacy24:47 "Plans Fail Under Pressure"29:34 The Assassination That Sparked WWI37:45 "Next Man Up Leadership"39:39 "US Military Decision-Making Explained"49:06 "Somme
Shorts #198 - A Taxonomy of Practices
Leaders, there is a lot of confusion out there about words. ---Opening and closing themes composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the 2022 Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!---
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The First World War by John Keegan (Introduction) w/Jesan Sorrells
The First World War by John Keegan---00:00 Welcome and Introduction to The First World War by John Keegan.00:10 Postmodern Leadership Lessons.04:39 Overview of The First World War by John Keegan.10:44 Causes of the First World War.13:51 19th-Century European War Planning.17:31 Aristocracy, War, and Tragedy.21:34 Facing War's Ethical Challenge.24:00 Meeting the Moment Ethically.31:33 Trus
Shorts # 197 - Aphorisms that Don't Mean Anything
Leaders, who owns the dictionary?---Opening and closing themes composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the 2022 Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!---
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Why Don't We Learn From History by B.H.Liddell Hart w/Tom Libby & Jesan Sorrells
Why Don't We Learn From History by B.H. Liddell Hart w/Tom Libby & Jesan Sorrells ---Delving into B.H. Liddell Hart’s Why Don’t We Learn From History, hosted by Jesan Sorrells and Tom Libby, examines why societies—and leaders in business, politics, and communities—struggle to absorb history’s lessons. They discuss the enduring influence of emotional bias, the pitfalls of democratic an
Shorts #196 - Abundance is a Deception
Leaders consider, discuss, and decide what the boundaries are, rather than allowing the myth of utopian abundance to get a footing. ---Opening and closing themes composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the 2022 Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading li
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