Perennial Meditations

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Today, on this Sunday edition of Perennial Wisdom, we turn to one of the great pillars of Western philosophy—Plato—and his vision of the Good. Not just goodness in the moral sense but the ultimate source of truth, beauty, and being.

Plato held that each human soul is inherently attracted to something ultimate. Though we might not always be conscious of it, beneath our pursuits for success, pleasure, approval, or knowledge lies a deeper desire—a longing for what is most real, whole, and divine.

Writing in 4th-century BCE Athens, Plato watched his teacher Socrates face execution for asking questions and “corrupting the youth.” From this injustice, Plato dedicated his life to awakening the soul, proving that truth and goodness are more than mere ideals. [...]

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In this episode of Perennial Wisdom, we delve into how philosophy offers healing, not by curing mental illness, but by guiding us to live with clarity, freedom, and meaning. By drawing insights from ancient philosophy, theology, and Therapy for the Saneby Lou Marinoff, this episode explores philosophy’s role as a medicine for the soul. 

Key Takeaways

• Philosophy and Suffering 
• Philosophy and Inner Freedom
• Philosophy and the Quest for Meaning

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• Listen to more podcasts: https://www.perennialleader.com/podcasts

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In this episode of Perennial Wisdom, we turn to monks and the monastic life for wisdom. In this video essay, we explore how to “Think like a Monk” by drawing from The Wandering Mind by historian (and previous podcast guest) Jamie Kreiner, as well as the wisdom of early Church Fathers. Expect to learn how medieval monks battled distraction, cultivated silence, practiced simplicity, lived lives of service, and much more. 

Key Takeaways

• The art of silence
• The wisdom of simplicity
• The path of service

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• Explore the Perennial Meditations archive: https://perennial.substack.com/archive
• Listen to more podcasts: https://www.perennialleader.com/podcasts

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In this episode of Perennial Wisdom, my guest is Shane Trotter (author of Setting the Bar). In our conversation, Shane and I explore the complexities of character development, focusing on themes such as responsibility, discipline, and societal context. We also discuss the challenges of balancing personal and professional responsibilities, the importance of clarity in priorities, the distinction between duty and obligation, and much more. 

Key Takeaways

• How to see responsibility as a gift instead of a burden.
• The difference between duty and obligation.
• Why discipline and responsibility are interconnected.

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In this episode of Perennial Wisdom, my guest is Prof. Dean Rickles, the author of Life is Short: An Appropriately Brief Guide to Making it More Meaningful. Dean is a professor of history and philosophy of modern physics at the University of Sydney, where he is also the director of the Sydney Centre for Time. ***Rebroadcast: This episode was recorded on March 22, 2023. 

 Key Takeaways

• Why the shortness of life is what makes it meaningful
• Overcoming the fear of death
• Seneca’s influence on the book
• The need for uncertainty
• How to connect with the future you
• Discerning our path in life and much more

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In this episode of Perennial Wisdom, my guest is Brittany Polat (co-author of Stoic Ethics: The Basics). In the conversation, we explore the application of Stoicism in relationships, love, and ethics. You can expect to learn the importance of stepping back to gain perspective in relationships, the dichotomy of control in family dynamics, and the concept of indifference in Stoicism. 

Key Takeaways

• Why cultivating a Stoic mindset takes time and practice
• How self-awareness connects with personal growth
• The role of compassion in Stoic philosophy
• Understanding our beliefs helps us manage our emotions

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In this episode of Perennial Wisdom, I welcome Dr. Brian Russell back to the show. Brian is an author, professor of biblical studies, and transformational coach. He is also the host of Deep Dive Spirituality Conversations, a podcast dedicated to spiritual and missional formation. 

In this conversation, we explore the concept of spiritual formation, the doctrine of original sin, and its implications for understanding Christianity. We also delve into the relationship between virtue and sin, the role of grace, the importance of prayer, spiritual practices that nurture wisdom, and much more. 

Key Takeaways

• Why self-compassion is crucial for the spiritual journey
• How prayer connects with seeking grace and truth
• The spiritual practices that nurture wisdom and growth 

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• Listen to more podcasts: https://www.perennialleader.com/podcasts

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In this episode of Perennial Wisdom, my guest is Dr. Carl Erik Fisher (author of The Urge: Our History of Addiction). In the conversation, Dr. Fisher, an addiction psychiatrist and bioethicist, shares insights on the multifaceted nature of addiction and its implications on human behavior. Expect to learn the importance of flexibility in psychological health, the need for balance in seeking wisdom, and the cyclical nature of personal growth. To learn more and stay connected, check out: Rat Park with Carl Erik Fisher. 

Key Takeaways

• Willingness to accept uncertainty is more active than mere acceptance.
• The desire for control can lead to anxiety and addictive behaviors.
• Wisdom involves knowing when to accept and when to change. 

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 🦉 Additional Resources: 

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• Listen to more podcasts: https://www.perennialleader.com/podcasts

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In this episode of Perennial Wisdom, my guest is Shane Trotter (author of Setting the Bar). In the conversation, Shane and I explore the intersection of character and the common good. We discuss the role of community in character development and the value of adopting timeless virtues. Expect to learn practical approaches to fostering compassion, understanding human limitations, seeking the common good, and much more. Check out Shane’s Substack: Setting the Bar!

Key Takeaways

• Human flourishing relies on social connections and shared values
• A sense of the common good is essential for individual well-being
• Ancient virtues provide a solid foundation for modern values

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 🦉 Additional Resources: 

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• Listen to more podcasts: https://www.perennialleader.com/podcasts

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In this episode of Perennial Wisdom, my guest Massimo Pigliucci (co-author of the new book Beyond Stoicism) discusses the importance of seeking wisdom beyond Stoicism. We explore the distinctions between virtue and pleasure, the nature of courage, and the interconnectedness of virtues. Prof. Pigliucci explains why we need a balanced approach to happiness, the significance of relationships in leading a meaningful life, and much more. 

Key Takeaways

• The ancient debate between virtue and pleasure
• Understanding virtues as interconnected can clarify moral dilemmas
• Why skepticism is a necessary ingredient of any philosophy of life
• Exploring various philosophies can enrich our understanding of life

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 🦉 Additional Resources: 

• Explore the Perennial Meditations archive: https://perennial.substack.com/archive
• Listen to more podcasts: https://www.perennialleader.com/podcasts