

Becoming The Main Character
Jameson Olsen
We're going to discover the world's greatest stories and the important lessons they hold. Each episode will take you on a journey, transforming how you see life through literature's most powerful narratives.
Hamlet will teach you why you shouldn't put off making that big move. Jo March exemplifies committing to your business idea when no one believes in you. Captain Ahab’s struggle with Moby Dick is a warning to not let future relationships be ruined by the memories of your exes.
Fiction for your non-fiction life.
Tune in, be changed.
Hamlet will teach you why you shouldn't put off making that big move. Jo March exemplifies committing to your business idea when no one believes in you. Captain Ahab’s struggle with Moby Dick is a warning to not let future relationships be ruined by the memories of your exes.
Fiction for your non-fiction life.
Tune in, be changed.
Episodes
Mentioned books

6 snips
Apr 8, 2025 • 40min
Becoming Jay Gatsby \\ The Great Gatsby Companion Episode
Dive into the complexities of Jay Gatsby, balancing heroism with delusion. Discover how his charisma shapes his journey through the American Dream. Explore how risk and exaggeration play pivotal roles in his life, with key moments revealing the power of bold choices. Reflect on transformative experiences that can shift our trajectories and the symbolic green light that represents desire and its traps. This discussion inspires deeper consideration of ambition, purpose, and personal accountability.

55 snips
Apr 1, 2025 • 2h 28min
The Great Gatsby
Dive into the psyche of F. Scott Fitzgerald's tragic hero against the backdrop of 1920s New York. Explore the complex relationships and societal tensions between characters like Nick, Gatsby, and Tom, culminating in heart-wrenching tragedy. Discover the symbolic meanings behind the green light and the Valley of Ashes. Reflect on the careless choices that lead to despair and the elusive nature of dreams. Plus, a comparison of film adaptations reveals how different portrayals capture Gatsby's enduring struggle for happiness.

Mar 18, 2025 • 38min
Snow White \\ Some People Will Hate You
The podcast dives into the lesser-known darker aspects of the Snow White fairy tale, revealing how Disney sanitized its themes. It argues that the magic mirror is the ultimate villain, sparking intriguing discussions on jealousy and beauty. Listeners learn powerful strategies for dealing with negative opinions and how to rise above them. The conversation also touches on the cyclical nature of poor choices and introduces the 'Truman Exercise' to promote self-reflection and better decision-making inspired by Snow White's journey.

5 snips
Mar 11, 2025 • 49min
Becoming Long John Silver \\ Treasure Island Companion Episode
Explore the complexities of Long John Silver, a character more captivating than traditional heroes. Delve into his ruthless quest for treasure alongside genuine care for Jim Hawkins. Discover the balance between flawed character traits and potential for success, inspired by historical resilience. Learn how charisma and adaptability are crucial for personal and professional triumphs, drawing parallels with today’s successful companies. The journey to self-discovery and growth mirrors the treasure hunt, inviting listeners to embrace change.

8 snips
Mar 5, 2025 • 2h 55min
Treasure Island
Dive into the swashbuckling world of 'Treasure Island' where iconic tales of piracy shape pop culture. Explore Jim Hawkins' thrilling encounters with a mysterious one-legged man and the escalating tensions aboard the Hispaniola. Uncover the treachery and cunning required to reclaim the ship amid mutinous plots. Reflect on the various film adaptations that bring the adventure to life and highlight the importance of risk-taking in both life and entrepreneurial pursuits. A captivating journey full of adventure awaits!

Feb 18, 2025 • 24min
Aesop's Fables: An Introduction \\ Power In Brevity
Explore the intriguing life of Aesop, the master of fables, and discover why his tales resonate through centuries. Dive into the moral lessons of 'The Tortoise and the Hare,' teaching persistence over haste. Uncover kindness in 'The Lion and the Mouse' and the pitfalls of self-deception in 'The Fox and the Grapes.' Reflect on the complexities of human relationships, navigating trust and kindness. Learn how fables can enrich communication and relationships while addressing our own negative behaviors.

Feb 11, 2025 • 27min
Become Atticus Finch \\ To Kill A Mockingbird Companion Episode
More stories and lessons from the world of Maycomb Alabama. Get multiple takes on the importance and value of meeting people where they are at. Plus, the magic phrase Atticus said multiple times that could change your life.--FOLLOW THE PODCAST FOR MORE GREAT CONTENT:Instagram:https://instagram.com/becomingmainX:https://twitter.com/becomingmain

Feb 5, 2025 • 2h 42min
To Kill A Mockingbird \\ What Is A "Great Soul"?
Explore the enduring legacy of Harper Lee's work and the complexities of the Finch family in Maycomb. Discover the moral philosophy behind Atticus Finch, a character embodying discipline and altruism. Dive into the gripping courtroom drama of Tom Robinson's trial and witness the harsh realities of racism and prejudice. Reflect on the idea of selflessness and the pursuit of meaning through community service. Examine what it truly means to be a 'great-souled' person in a world filled with challenges.

Jan 22, 2025 • 37min
Echo and Narcissus \\ The Worth Of Self-Worth
Dive into the ancient Greek myth of Echo and Narcissus, where vanity leads to tragic outcomes for both characters. Discover how Echo's punishment turns her into a voice of others, while Narcissus becomes entrapped in self-love. The discussion reflects modern views on narcissism and self-worth. Through psychological insights, the delicate balance between confidence and humility is explored, revealing the challenges of genuine connection in a self-absorbed world. Can self-awareness shatter the cycle of vanity?

Jan 14, 2025 • 28min
Don't Become MACBETH \\ Macbeth Companion Episode
Dive into the intriguing layers of Shakespeare's Macbeth, where historical facts clash with myth. Explore Tolkien's take on the balance between fantasy and drama, challenging our perceptions of the witches. Rethink ambition as a complex human drive rather than mere moral folly, celebrating the depths of desire. Discover the dangers of hesitance in the face of ambition and how Macbeth's choices illustrate the struggle between free will and destiny, revealing profound lessons about action and consequence.