Cost of Glory
Alex Petkas
The most influential biographies ever written, admired by leaders, creators, soldiers, and thinkers for nearly 2,000 years: Plutarch’s Parallel lives. Essential listening for anyone striving after greatness. Alex Petkas, former professor of ancient philosophy and history, revives and dramatically retells these unforgettable stories for modern audiences. The subjects are statesmen, generals, orators, and founders; pious and profane, stoics and hedonists. The stakes bear on the future of Western civilization. The cost of glory is always great. Visit costofglory.com to find out more.
Episodes
Mentioned books
25 snips
Sep 11, 2025 • 1h 34min
111 - Caesar's Civil War III: Came Saw Conquered
In a gripping exploration of history, the focus turns to Caesar's dramatic shifts from triumph to turmoil. Witness Pompey's assassination and Caesar's grief, alongside Cleopatra’s seductive strategies and her chaotic takeover of power. Experience the intense urban warfare in Alexandria, including the tragic loss of the Great Library. Unpack the masterful psychological tactics during mutinies in Rome and the fierce battles in Africa, where moral dilemmas blur as Caesar confronts his enemies. The saga culminates in epic confrontations that redefine a legacy.
52 snips
Jul 12, 2025 • 1h 33min
110 - Caesar's Civil War II: Bloody Pharsalia
Explore the gripping saga of Julius Caesar's Civil War as he faces Pompey's massive army in Greece. Delve into Caesar's revolutionary reforms and the daring challenges of crossing the Adriatic. Witness the tension of the siege at Dyrrhachium and the disastrous defeat that nearly halted his rise. The pivotal Battle of Pharsalus looms, where strategic decisions and loyalty lead to unprecedented bloodshed. Reflect on the profound impact of these moments on the Roman Republic, showcasing how one man's choices can alter the course of history.
59 snips
Jun 4, 2025 • 1h 51min
109 - Caesar's Civil War I: Breakdown
Explore the dramatic escalation of the Roman Civil War as Caesar defies the Senate and crosses the Rubicon, marking a pivotal moment in history. Uncover the intriguing political dynamics leading up to this conflict, including shocking defections and strategic retreats. Witness Caesar's military brilliance during the Spanish campaign and the brutal siege of Marseille. Delve into Caesar's personal motivations, revealing a leader shaped by honor and dignity amid escalating chaos and betrayal.
79 snips
May 10, 2025 • 2h 11min
108 - Caesar 2: Law and Nature
Explore the tumultuous rise of Julius Caesar as he navigates Roman politics, forming the First Triumvirate with Pompey and Crassus. Discover his unexpected cooperative approach during his consulship, aimed at aiding veterans and the urban poor. Witness his ambitious military strategies in Gaul, including the dramatic battle against Vercingetorix. The podcast also delves into the philosophical clash of divine beliefs and Epicurean thought, shedding light on how these ideas shape the relentless ambition and complex rivalries leading to civil war.
80 snips
Apr 8, 2025 • 1h 55min
107 - Caesar 1: Man of Destiny
Dive into the captivating rise of Julius Caesar, exploring his bold defiance against Sulla's dictatorship and his refusal to abandon Cornelia. From his audacious capture by pirates to his merciless revenge, Caesar's early political maneuvers reveal a blend of charm and ambition. Experience his narrow escape from execution during the Catilinarian conspiracy and his strategic navigation of Roman politics. Discover lessons of leadership and ambition that resonate even today, showcasing how power can foster both loyalty and tyranny.
28 snips
Mar 23, 2025 • 53min
106 - The New Indiana Jones - w/ Dr. Brent Seales
Join Dr. Brent Seales, a computer science professor and modern-day Indiana Jones, as he reveals groundbreaking techniques for restoring ancient artifacts. He dives into the mesmerizing 'virtual unwrapping' of the Vesuvius scrolls, sparking excitement about unearthing lost Renaissance texts. Explore how AI is revolutionizing imaging methods and the thrilling potential of discovering transformative ancient manuscripts. Brent's adventures blend technology with history, promising to reshape our understanding of the past and engage a global community in these efforts.
15 snips
Feb 26, 2025 • 1h 45min
105 - Breeding Future Statesmen: Interview w/ Kevin Dolan on the EXIT podcast
Kevin Dolan, founder of the Exit Group and the Natal Conference, dives deep into historical dynamics influencing modern birth rates. He discusses ancient Sparta's demographic shifts and how their societal structures shaped political power. The conversation shifts to Augustus and his family policies aimed at revitalizing Rome. Dolan also explores the intersections of Christianity and demographic changes, shedding light on how the church influenced family dynamics. His insights draw provocative parallels between ancient customs and contemporary societal challenges.
18 snips
Feb 13, 2025 • 1h 23min
104 - Heroic Struggles in Vietnam, w/ Doyle Glass
Doyle Glass, author of *Swift Sword* and a former state prosecutor, dives into the harrowing tales of Marines during a pivotal day in the Vietnam War. He shares insights on mastering fear in combat and the importance of psychological resilience, linking these themes to Stoic philosophy. The conversation highlights the valor of heroes like Father Capodanno and Larry Peters, exploring their selfless acts amidst chaos. Glass emphasizes the necessity of documenting veterans’ experiences to honor their sacrifices and the complexity of their journeys.
39 snips
Feb 6, 2025 • 27min
103 - The Immortal Cato
Explore the polarizing legacy of Cato, revered as a hero yet misunderstood in Roman history. Discover insights from famous figures like Cicero and Caesar, and how they shaped views of virtue and governance. Delve into his portrayal in literature and philosophy by Virgil and Seneca, revealing contrasting interpretations of strength in crises. Unravel Cato's motivations through perspectives that highlight his complex role as both principled and adversarial. Finally, reflect on the challenges of justice and the importance of integrity in public affairs.
62 snips
Jan 22, 2025 • 1h 48min
102 - Cato III: The Senate's Ashes
Explore the fiery chaos in Rome following Clodius' murder and the subsequent burning of the Senate. Delve into Cato's hardline stance against Caesar and his dramatic bid for consulship. As tensions rise, witness the outbreak of civil war and Cato's resolute stand for Republican values. His final days unfold in a poignant narrative of despair and integrity, culminating in a tragic yet philosophical suicide at Utica. Cato's legacy leaves a profound impact, symbolizing the end of the Roman Republic amid tumultuous political upheaval.
