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Books of Titans Podcast

Latest episodes

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Feb 7, 2025 • 45min

The Beginning of Knowledge

Dive into the wisdom of the Book of Proverbs as the host unpacks the intriguing concept of 'the fear of the Lord.' What does this really mean—trembling fear or sacred awe? Personal insights from 2024 shed light on this transformative idea. The discussion also explores King Solomon's complex relationships and how they influenced his reign and legacy. Finally, timeless lessons from Proverbs are highlighted, emphasizing their relevance in today's world and shedding light on honesty, justice, and the pursuit of wisdom.
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Jan 31, 2025 • 57min

Top Ideas from the World of Books

Reflecting on lessons from 291 books, the discussion highlights the personal nature of reading and diverse interpretations. Daily decisions shape growth and integrity, inspired by authors like C.S. Lewis. The moral landscape is navigated by examining means versus ends, urging ethical reflection. Historical patterns reveal generational insights, while anti-fragility underscores growth through challenges. Lastly, the transformative power of literacy is emphasized, showcasing its vital role in personal freedom and potential.
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Jan 28, 2025 • 5min

On Direction

Dive into the compelling discussion about how small daily choices shape our life direction. Explore the tension between noble ideals and the reality of everyday decisions. Hear insights from literature emphasizing the power of conscious choices in personal growth. The conversation underscores how our incremental choices either elevate us or lead to moral complacency, making every decision a crucial step toward becoming our best selves or drifting away from it.
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Jan 24, 2025 • 28min

How Has This Reading Project Changed Me?

A deep dive into the transformative power of reading reveals layers of personal growth and self-discovery. The speaker reflects on how engaging with diverse genres has shifted their worldview and enhanced empathy. They unpack the alignment of intellectual beliefs with emotional truths, especially after a crisis of faith. Moreover, the discussion highlights the relevance of historical literature to contemporary life and the enriching experience of being part of literary communities. This introspective journey showcases how books can shape humanity's understanding.
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Jan 17, 2025 • 34min

2025: The Reading Year Ahead

Dive into a transformative reading journey featuring Greek tragedies, comedies, and an exciting shift to philosophy in 2025. The host reflects on their ambitious reading goals, including tackling the works of Plato, while sharing plans for a new reading group focused on short classics. There's a personal touch as past experiences with the King James Bible are discussed, shedding light on its literary significance. Emphasizing the joy of classic literature, the speaker encourages a balanced approach, blending structured plans with spontaneity.
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10 snips
Jan 10, 2025 • 29min

The Intellectual Life by A.G. Sertillanges

Explore the journey of intellectual curiosity and lifelong learning. Discover how just two hours a day can enrich your mind and life. Delve into the importance of developing strong reading habits and engaging with timeless literature. Learn about the power of purposeful reading and the vital role sleep plays in processing knowledge. This discussion not only offers practical advice but also encourages a deeper connection between ideas for a more fulfilling intellectual pursuit.
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Jan 3, 2025 • 56min

2024 Reading Year Recap

The host reflects on a remarkable year focused on Greek literature, sharing insights from epic poetry, tragedies, and fables. They dive into Aesop's fables and discuss modern challenges depicted in contemporary works. Personal growth through impactful reads is emphasized, along with top book recommendations that bridge classic and modern texts. Engaging conversations about Aeschylus and Thucydides reveal enduring themes like war and philosophy. Finally, the host connects Athenian thought to modern politics while outlining exciting future reading plans.
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Dec 27, 2024 • 24min

Van Gogh Has a Broken Heart by Russ Ramsey

I used to think that great art had to have come from a great-souled artist with an honorable life. How else would you be able to forge David out of a slab of marble or compose an entire opera in your head? A minimum of a pure mind combined with superhuman abilities must have been required, right?Actually, art is oftentimes forged through intense suffering in the life of the artist. It’s suffering we know well as we also experience it to varying degrees. That’s the power of this book. It highlights Sacred Failures.In this episode, I cover three artists, what I learned about them, and how that shifted how I now see their art. This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.booksoftitans.com/subscribe
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Dec 20, 2024 • 31min

The Art of Teaching by Gilbert Highet

Teaching is fundamental to daily life, and its methods can shape our interactions. Discover the critical role of primary sources in deep learning and the importance of creating engaging environments. Explore the bond between teaching and learning, fostering critical thinking through student-driven discovery. The discussion critiques the influence of modern distractions against the timeless benefits of literature and philosophy. Lastly, it advocates for inspiring intrinsic motivation in education while promoting a community reading group.
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Dec 13, 2024 • 33min

Hellenika by Xenophon

“And after this, not many days later…”Xenophon begins his history with these words. The “after this…” refers to the writings of Thucydides, which abruptly end in the midst of the Peloponnesian War in 411BC. Xenophon takes up the mantle and takes us first to the end of the Peloponnesian War in 404BC and then on to 362BC.Xenophon’s work takes us through the decline of the Athenian empire into the rise of the Spartans, Boeotians, and then Thebans. Throughout the work, the Persians are making their presence known as well.It’s a fascinating history, one that sets the stage for the eventual Macedonian takeover. I kept thinking about the literature and philosophy being composed during these years. Some of the world’s greatest works were created during this period of history.In this episode, I share the main things that stuck out about topics such as government, justice, and tradition. This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.booksoftitans.com/subscribe

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