The Partially Examined Life Philosophy Podcast
Mark Linsenmayer, Wes Alwan, Seth Paskin, Dylan Casey
The Partially Examined Life is a podcast by some guys who were at one point set on doing philosophy for a living but then thought better of it. Each episode, we pick a short text and chat about it with some balance between insight and flippancy. You don't have to know any philosophy, or even to have read the text we're talking about to (mostly) follow and (hopefully) enjoy the discussion. For links to the texts we discuss and other info, check out www.partiallyexaminedlife.com.
We also feature episodes from other podcasts by our hosts to round out your partially examined life, including Pretty Much Pop (prettymuchpop.com, covering all media), Nakedly Examined Music (nakedlyexaminedmusic.com, deconstructing songs), Philosophy vs. Improv (philosophyimprov.com, fun with performance skills and philosophical ideas), and (sub)Text (subtextpodcast.com, looking deeply at lit and film). Learn about more network podcasts at partiallyexaminedlife.com.
We also feature episodes from other podcasts by our hosts to round out your partially examined life, including Pretty Much Pop (prettymuchpop.com, covering all media), Nakedly Examined Music (nakedlyexaminedmusic.com, deconstructing songs), Philosophy vs. Improv (philosophyimprov.com, fun with performance skills and philosophical ideas), and (sub)Text (subtextpodcast.com, looking deeply at lit and film). Learn about more network podcasts at partiallyexaminedlife.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jan 10, 2026 • 49min
PEL Presents PvI#109: Choose Your Own Failure w/ Rich Baker
Rich Baker, an improv teacher and author of Improv Made Easier, discusses the valuable role of failure in learning and improvisation. He emphasizes the difference between personal and objective failure, and explores how context shapes our responses to humor. The conversation touches on the risks of public performance in the digital age and how modern improv navigates sensitive topics. They even create a comedic scene about stakes and expectations, while considering ‘yes-and’ as a tool for acceptance in creative settings. A fascinating blend of humor and philosophy!
Jan 5, 2026 • 42min
PEL 2026 Kickoff Nightcap
The hosts kick off the year with their philosophical bucket lists, diving into works like Merleau-Ponty's Being and Time and Bergson's exploration of memory. They discuss identity politics through Honneth's lens and Taylor’s insights on authenticity. Quantum mechanics raise metaphysical queries, while the philosophy of architecture and Chan Buddhism spark curiosity. Literature also features prominently, with proposals including Moby-Dick and Infinite Jest, while pessimism and radical empiricism invite deeper engagement. Suggestions from listeners are welcomed!
Dec 29, 2025 • 49min
Ep. 382: Freud on Group Psychology (Part Two)
Delve into Freud's fascinating insights on group psychology, where libidinal ties bind members through shared love for a leader. Explore how identification shapes group dynamics and cohesion, and discover the balance between healthy and extreme narcissism. The hosts compare the impact of different group formats, like rallies and concerts, on collective experiences. They also discuss the dynamics of panic following a leader's downfall and how ideals can replace leaders, maintaining social bonds. The interplay of discipline, shame, and identity in group actions adds another layer to this engaging discussion.
Dec 26, 2025 • 51min
PEL Presents PvI#108: Guess Who's Coming to Christmas Dinner... Lawrence Ware!
Philosopher and film critic Lawrence Ware joins the discussion to explore his journey from academia to public writing. He reflects on the nuances of judging art and film, particularly within the context of cultural identity. The conversation dives into the merits of live tutoring versus written works. Lawrence shares insights from his viral essay about leaving the Southern Baptist Convention to support LGBTQ individuals. They also engage in a humorous improv exercise about orphan greeting cards, blending philosophy with festive cheer.
Dec 24, 2025 • 58min
PEL Presents PMP#212: Holiday Romance Films
Explore the charm of Hallmark-style holiday romance films with hosts reflecting on their personal connections to the genre. They discuss the formulaic plots, the comforting predictability that makes these films feel like 'comfort food,' and the surprising skill behind their production. The conversation touches on the rise of streaming platforms, casting choices, and the genre's intentional blandness. Listeners will also hear about specific films, recommendations, and the cultural significance of these seasonal favorites.
9 snips
Dec 22, 2025 • 46min
Ep. 382: Freud on Group Psychology (Part One)
Dive into Freud's groundbreaking theories on group psychology! Discover why mobs can lead to reduced inhibition and dumber behavior. The hosts unpack Le Bon's crowd theory and its troubling historical applications. Explore how leaders shape group conscience and individual judgment. Could groups potentially elevate moral standards, or do they simply amplify emotions? Each discussion delves into the mechanics of leadership, superego formation, and the nuances of group dynamics. A fascinating examination of psychology in social settings awaits!
Dec 19, 2025 • 1h 5min
PEL Presents NEM#244: Year-End Chat with NEM Audio Editor Roger Heathers
In a special holiday episode, we get to meet musician and podcaster Roger Heathers, who edits this show. Together, Roger and I discuss how we make the show and share some highlights and challenges re. recent guests. At the beginning and the end of the show, you get to hear two tracks from his soon to be released Upward Spiral: "Guard Dogs" and "Hopefully." They both feature a warm, holiday-like glow. You can listen to him at rogerheathers.bandcamp.com, or check out The Weekly Song Podcast. Hear more Nakedly Examined Music at nakedlyexaminedmusic.com. Support us at patreon.com/nakedlyexaminedmusic. Sponsor: Rula patients typically pay $15 per session when using insurance; connect with quality therapists and mental health experts who specialize in you at rula.com/nem.
Dec 18, 2025 • 11min
PREMIUM-Ep. 381: Aquinas on Ethical Psychology (Part Three)
We discuss the first six questions from the "Moral Action" section in the Summa Theologica (1268), which we read in Thomas Aquinas: Selected Philosophical Writings (1993). If you're not hearing the full version of this part of the discussion, sign up via one of the options described at partiallyexaminedlife.com/support.
Dec 15, 2025 • 59min
Ep. 381: Aquinas on Ethical Psychology (Part Two)
Dive into the rich world of virtue and moral action as the hosts dissect Aquinas's intriguing insights. They explore whether virtue is a mere disposition or a deeper quality, contrasting moral goodness with mere competence. The discussion encompasses the connection between emotions and reason, questioning if emotions can truly be aligned with virtuous actions. Delve into how bodily appetites interact with moral agency and whether special virtues are needed for the will to love altruistically. Their thought-provoking banter invites listeners to reflect on the nature of virtue itself.
Dec 13, 2025 • 50min
PEL Presents PvI#107: Mary and Mark Argue About Arguing
Mark and Mary dive into whether argumentation is essential to philosophy and explore how to engage with opposing views. They share insights on the importance of internal dialogue and being open to challenges, while also critiquing the limits of debate. Improvisation principles come into play as they discuss ensemble conflicts and the power of shared discovery. Riffing on astrology and alternative healing practices, they blend humor with reflections on belief and personal growth, all while tossing in playful animal facts.
