Perennial Wisdom

📮 Want tools for the art of living? Sign up here: https://perennial.substack.com/subscribeIn this episode of Perennial Wisdom, my guest is Shane Trotter (author of Setting the Bar). In our conversation, Shane and I explore the complexities of character development, focusing on themes such as responsibility, discipline, and societal context. We also discuss the challenges of balancing personal and professional responsibilities, the importance of clarity in priorities, the distinction between duty and obligation, and much more. Key TakeawaysHow to see responsibility as a gift instead of a burden.The difference between duty and obligation.Why discipline and responsibility are interconnected.---  🖇️ Stay Connected: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perennialmeditations/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PerennialPods---  🦉 Additional Resources: Explore the Perennial Meditations archive: https://perennial.substack.com/archiveListen to more podcasts: https://www.perennialleader.com/podcasts

📮 Want tools for the art of living? Sign up here: https://perennial.substack.com/subscribeIn this episode of Perennial Wisdom, my guest is Prof. Dean Rickles, the author of Life is Short: An Appropriately Brief Guide to Making it More Meaningful. Dean is a professor of history and philosophy of modern physics at the University of Sydney, where he is also the director of the Sydney Centre for Time. ***Rebroadcast: This episode was recorded on March 22, 2023.  Key TakeawaysWhy the shortness of life is what makes it meaningfulOvercoming the fear of deathSeneca’s influence on the bookThe need for uncertaintyHow to connect with the future youDiscerning our path in life and much more---  🖇️ Stay Connected: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perennialmeditations/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PerennialPods---  🦉 Additional Resources: Explore the Perennial Meditations archive: https://perennial.substack.com/archiveListen to more podcasts: https://www.perennialleader.com/podcasts

Brittany Polat, co-author of "Stoic Ethics: The Basics" and a leading expert in Stoicism, dives deep into the practical applications of this philosophy in relationships. She discusses how stepping back can reshape family dynamics and emphasizes the importance of self-awareness in personal growth. The concept of indifference is explored, highlighting its role in distinguishing between healthy and toxic relationships. Brittany also touches on the Stoic love paradox, advocating for emotional maturity and rationality in love.

📮 Want tools for the art of living? Sign up here: https://perennial.substack.com/subscribeIn this episode of Perennial Wisdom, I welcome Dr. Brian Russell back to the show. Brian is an author, professor of biblical studies, and transformational coach. He is also the host of Deep Dive Spirituality Conversations, a podcast dedicated to spiritual and missional formation. In this conversation, we explore the concept of spiritual formation, the doctrine of original sin, and its implications for understanding Christianity. We also delve into the relationship between virtue and sin, the role of grace, the importance of prayer, spiritual practices that nurture wisdom, and much more. Key TakeawaysWhy self-compassion is crucial for the spiritual journeyHow prayer connects with seeking grace and truthThe spiritual practices that nurture wisdom and growth ---  🖇️ Stay Connected: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perennialmeditations/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PerennialPods---  🦉 Additional Resources: Explore the Perennial Meditations archive: https://perennial.substack.com/archiveListen to more podcasts: https://www.perennialleader.com/podcasts

Join addiction psychiatrist and bioethicist Carl Erik Fisher, author of 'The Urge: Our History of Addiction', as he delves into the complexities of addiction. He discusses the struggles of self-control and how cultural aspects shape our understanding of everyday habits. The conversation emphasizes the power of psychological flexibility and the importance of navigating uncertainty for personal growth. Fisher also reflects on the journeys of notable figures like Anthony Bourdain, highlighting valuable lessons from their experiences with addiction and recovery.

📮 Want tools for the art of living? Sign up here: https://perennial.substack.com/subscribeIn this episode of Perennial Wisdom, my guest is Shane Trotter (author of Setting the Bar). In the conversation, Shane and I explore the intersection of character and the common good. We discuss the role of community in character development and the value of adopting timeless virtues. Expect to learn practical approaches to fostering compassion, understanding human limitations, seeking the common good, and much more. Check out Shane’s Substack: Setting the Bar!Key TakeawaysHuman flourishing relies on social connections and shared valuesA sense of the common good is essential for individual well-beingAncient virtues provide a solid foundation for modern values---  🖇️ Stay Connected: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perennialmeditations/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PerennialPods---  🦉 Additional Resources: Explore the Perennial Meditations archive: https://perennial.substack.com/archiveListen to more podcasts: https://www.perennialleader.com/podcasts

Massimo Pigliucci, a professor of philosophy and co-author of 'Beyond Stoicism', discusses the need for wisdom beyond traditional Stoic teachings. He delves into the ancient conflict between virtue and pleasure, promoting a balanced approach to happiness. Pigliucci explains how interconnected virtues clarify moral dilemmas and emphasizes the essential role of skepticism in thoughtful living. The conversation also highlights the importance of meaningful relationships and encourages navigating emotions in the pursuit of virtue.

📮 Want tools for the art of living? Sign up here: https://perennial.substack.com/subscribeIn this episode of Perennial Wisdom, my guest is Henry Shukman. Henry is a poet, author, meditation teacher, and co-founder of the single-path meditation app The Way. His most recent books are Original Love: The Four Inns on the Path of Awakening and the Zen memoir One Blade of Grass. He has taught at Google, the New York Times, Harvard Business School and Medical School, and the Institute of American Indian Arts. He has written several award-winning and bestselling books of fiction and poetry. His poems have appeared in The New Yorker, Guardian, Times, and Sunday Times.In the conversation, Henry and I discussed the concept of original love. We delve into the beginner's mind and how embracing our fallibility can lead to a more fulfilling existence. Finally, we touch on the essence of wisdom and how it relates to living well and fostering interconnectedness. Learn more about Henry ShukmanThe Way: https://www.thewayapp.comHenry Shukman: https://henryshukman.com---  🖇️ Stay Connected: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perennialmeditations/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PerennialPods---  🦉 Additional Resources: Explore the Perennial Meditations archive: https://perennial.substack.com/archiveListen to more podcasts: https://www.perennialleader.com/podcasts

📮 Want tools for the art of living? Sign up here: https://perennial.substack.com/subscribeIn this episode of Perennial Wisdom, my guest is James Romm (editor of How to Die and How to Have a Life). In the conversation, James and I discuss the importance of preparing for death, the role of virtue in achieving happiness, and the art of self-reflection. As you’ll hear in the episode, James is highly knowledgeable of Seneca's life and philosophy. He is the author of Dying Every Day: Seneca at the Court of Nero and several others, including a forthcoming book titled Plato and the Tyrant.Key TakeawaysSeneca’s view on preparing for death.Why self-knowledge is essential for ethical living.The connection between forgiveness and self-improvement.---  🖇️ Stay Connected: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perennialmeditations/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PerennialPods---  🦉 Additional Resources: Explore the Perennial Meditations archive: https://perennial.substack.com/archiveListen to more podcasts: https://www.perennialleader.com/podcasts

In this enlightening discussion, Donald J. Robertson, a psychotherapist and author specializing in Stoic philosophy, explores how Socrates can transform our lives. He reveals the profound connections between Socratic philosophy and modern cognitive therapy. Key topics include cognitive flexibility as essential for emotional resilience and the Socratic method's role in developing critical thinking. Donald also highlights the importance of self-knowledge through deep questioning and the evolving relationship between age and wisdom.