The Troubadour Podcast

Send us a textJoin host Kirk and special guest Srini—an engineer and Sanskrit scholar—as they uncover the hidden depths of the Mahabharata, one of India’s most celebrated epics. From analyzing the epic’s timeless themes of loyalty and honesty to drawing unexpected parallels with Greek myths, this discussion reveals how the Mahabharata continues to shape culture, philosophy, and even modern theater performances. Whether you’re a longtime fan or curious newcomer, you’ll discover fresh insights into why these ancient tales still resonate across the globe today.

Send us a textJoin A.Y Oza and Kirk Barbera for a thought-provoking discussion that bridges ancient Indian epic storytelling with the timeless insights of Western literature. We explore how the Mahabharata’s themes of duty, philosophy, and cosmic order resonate across cultures—inviting you to discover epic wisdom in a modern light.

Send us a textDiscover the power and passion behind the Mahabharata—India’s most famous epic. In this video, we explore the key stories, characters, and lessons from the Mahabharata, offering educational insights for those new to the epic and fresh perspectives for returning fans.This isn’t just a history lesson; it’s a preview of our upcoming live production in Austin that brings these age-old stories to life through dynamic theater, music, and dance. Subscribe for more mythological insights and be sure to check out the link in the description for ticket information!

Send us a text*Talk given at Third Thursday in Austin.In this in-depth lecture, we examine the timeless wisdom in Miguel de Cervantes’ Don Quixote and Ayn Rand’s The Fountainhead. Learn how literary heroes—and antiheroes—can help us stay grounded while pursuing lofty ambitions. We’ll discuss Peter Keating, Howard Roark, and Don Quixote as models for introspection, exploring how to balance big dreams with real-world constraints.

Send us a textJoin us for a thought-provoking discussion on Ayn Rand's The Romantic Manifesto and the profound role of art in human life.In this group conversation, we explore key ideas from Rand's groundbreaking work, including:The purpose of art and how it shapes our consciousnessWhy literature, movies, and other art forms resonate differently with each individualThe role of empathy, judgment, and self-discovery in experiencing artWe also discuss how Rand’s ideas on art relate to personal values, self-reflection, and understanding the world around us. Whether you're an Objectivist, an art enthusiast, or simply curious about the connection between philosophy and creativity, this discussion offers unique insights and perspectives.Key topics covered include:What makes art essential to human lifeThe concept of “sense of life” and its reflection in artistic expressionWhy introspection through art is crucial to personal growthWe’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your favorite works of art or your take on Rand’s philosophy in the comments below.🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and join the conversation for more explorations of art, literature, and philosophy.

Send us a textRead Don Quixote with me and a community of readers by joining the Literary Canon Club https://www.troubadour.studio/reading... In this video, we explore the famous (and surprisingly humorous) book-burning scene in Don Quixote—and how Miguel de Cervantes used satire to critique censorship, champion storytelling, and essentially invent the modern novel. Discover how Don Quixote’s clash between medieval ideals and the realities of a sprawling empire remains relevant in our own time of book bans and cultural shifts. Join me in uncovering the timeless lessons of this literary masterpiece!Topics Covered:The hilarious yet thought-provoking “book-burning” sceneCervantes’ life and disillusionment with chivalric idealsThe birth of the modern novel formWhy Don Quixote still matters in our era of censorshipHow stories shape personal identity and cultural valuesSubscribe for more discussions on classic literature, modern insights, and the power of great storytelling.

Send us a textJoin host Kirk Barbera and Denver filmmaker Rob Shearer as they explore how Miguel de Cervantes’ Don Quixote still resonates in today’s film and media landscape. From the balance between imagination and reality to the impact of AI on creativity, this lively conversation weaves together classic literature, modern media trends, and the art of storytelling.

Send us a textIn this episode of The Troubadour Show, host Kirk Barbera welcomes teacher, literature coach, and art educator Luc Travers to explore Homer’s Iliad—the ancient Greek epic that helped shape Western civilization. Discover why The Iliad remains timeless: from Achilles’ legendary rage and Hector’s humanizing struggles, to the eternal questions of honor, glory, and empathy. Kirk and Luc dive deep into the epic’s most poignant moments, revealing how its lessons on life and death still resonate with readers today.Join Kirk’s Literary Canon Club:https://www.troubadour.studio/literary-canon-club(A vibrant community dedicated to reading and discussing the greatest works of literature.)Connect with Luc Travers:Website: LiteratureAtOurHouse.comArt Book: Touching the Art – A unique guide to understanding and appreciating paintings and sculpture.

Send us a textJoin me on a journey that blends literary analysis with interactive history! In this video, I use the immersive world of Assassin’s Creed Odyssey as a backdrop to re-experience John Keats’s famous Romantic poem, “Ode on a Grecian Urn.” By imagining the vibrant art and culture of ancient Greece—just as the game brings it to life—we’ll uncover the poem’s timeless themes, from eternal youth and beauty to the nature of truth and art. Whether you’re a fan of classical literature, historical games, or simply curious about how these worlds connect, this guided exploration will give you a richer understanding of Keats’s masterpiece.

Send us a textJoin us for an enlightening conversation with Professor Tara Smith, a University of Texas philosopher and an expert on Ayn Rand’s Objectivism, as we delve deep into the First Amendment and the imperative of intellectual freedom.You can buy Tara's book, which includes essays and contributions by Onkar Ghate, Greg Salmieri, and Elan. Journo https://a.co/d/hG4VZqKTara Smith is a Professor of Philosophy at the University of Texas at Austin. Specializing in moral, legal, and political philosophy, she is a prominent scholar on Ayn Rand’s Objectivism. Her latest book, The First Amendment: Essays on the Imperative of Intellectual Freedom, explores the critical importance of free speech and intellectual freedom in today’s society.