
Perennial Wisdom
Perennial Wisdom (formerly In Search of Wisdom) is a podcast for seekers and curious minds. Join the search with J.W. Bertolotti (creator of the Perennial Meditations newsletter) to discover practical wisdom from philosophical and spiritual traditions. Learn more at perennial.substack.com.
Latest episodes

Sep 4, 2024 • 43min
The Art of Living with Dr. Daniel McInerny
📮 Want tools for the art of living? Sign up here: https://perennial.substack.com/subscribe In this episode of In Search of Wisdom, my guest is Dr. Daniel McInerny, author of the new book Beauty and Imitation. Dr. McInerny is an associate professor and chair of the philosophy department at Christendom College, as well as a novelist and dramatist. In the conversation, we discuss the wisdom of imitation, the art of contemplation, the way of beauty, and much more.Key Takeaways:The connection between humility and art.Why it’s possible to ‘fail to see’ objective beauty.How ‘works of art’ can guide us through challenging times. --- 🖇️ Stay Connected: Twitter: https://twitter.com/PerennialPodsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/perennialmeditations/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PerennialPods--- 🦉 Additional Resources Related to the Podcast: Explore the Perennial Meditations archive: https://perennial.substack.com/archiveListen to more podcasts: https://www.perennialleader.com/podcasts

Aug 29, 2024 • 15min
The Better Angels of Our Nature
📮 Want tools for the art of living? Sign up here: https://perennial.substack.com/subscribe In this episode of In Search of Wisdom, we explore what it means to answer the call to the “better angels of our nature,” as Abraham Lincoln put it. We discuss whether or not we have better (and worse) angels of our nature. And if so, what can we do to lead a life that’s guided by the wiser sides of our nature?Key Takeaways:The wisdom of dignityThe wisdom of opposing ideasThe call to compassion --- 🖇️ Stay Connected: Twitter: https://twitter.com/PerennialPodsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/perennialmeditations/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PerennialPods--- 🦉 Additional Resources Related to the Podcast: Explore the Perennial Meditations archive: https://perennial.substack.com/archiveListen to more podcasts: https://www.perennialleader.com/podcasts

Aug 21, 2024 • 17min
The Art of Not Knowing | Wisdom is the Way
Dive into the intriguing concept of embracing ignorance as a form of wisdom. Explore how acknowledging what we don't know can spark deeper understanding through the lens of philosophers like Socrates. Discover the importance of intellectual humility and curiosity in learning. This discussion challenges the notion of certainty and highlights cognitive biases that cloud our judgment. It's a compelling invitation to reflect on beliefs and cultivate a mindset open to growth.

Aug 14, 2024 • 15min
The Art of Connection | Wisdom is the Way
Dive into the paradox of feeling disconnected in a world that's fundamentally interconnected. Explore how philosophical insights and spiritual wisdom can enhance our relationships. Discover the Stoic idea of concentric circles, addressing the loneliness epidemic while fostering community bonds. Learn from Marcus Aurelius about empathy's crucial role in nurturing connections and the consequences of isolation on society. Uncover practical tools for enriching your life through the art of connection.

Aug 7, 2024 • 14min
The Art of Impermanence | Wisdom is the Way
📮 Want tools for the art of living? Sign up here: https://perennial.substack.com/subscribe In this episode of In Search of Wisdom, we explore impermanence, a topic from our Wisdom is the Way course. We discuss why understanding how the world works is an integral part of a philosophy of life and the various ways that philosophical and spiritual traditions think about impermanence. We also discuss how embracing uncertainty can help us lead an intentional life. Key Takeaways:The Wisdom of ChangeThe Art of BecomingThe Shortness of Life --- 🖇️ Stay Connected: Twitter: https://twitter.com/PerennialPodsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/perennialmeditations/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PerennialPodsWebsite: https://www.perennialleader.com/--- 🦉 Additional Resources Related to the Podcast: Explore the Perennial Meditations archive: https://perennial.substack.com/archiveListen to more podcasts: https://www.perennialleader.com/podcasts

Jul 17, 2024 • 57min
An Epicurean Guide to Life with Emily Austin
Emily Austin, author of 'Living for Pleasure: An Epicurean Guide to Life,' shares her insights on finding tranquility and the true meaning of pleasure. She debunks the myths surrounding Epicureanism, revealing its focus on balanced desires and meaningful connections. The discussion also touches on the intersection of minimalism and happiness, while contrasting Stoicism and Epicureanism in their approaches to well-being. Through practical wisdom, Emily encourages listeners to embrace philosophy as a way of life.

Jul 10, 2024 • 43min
The Wisdom of Fasting with John Oakes
Author John Oakes discusses the historical roots and philosophical aspects of fasting, debunking weight-loss misconceptions. He explores fasting as a tool for self-discovery and introspection, emphasizing its effects on the mind and body. The conversation delves into survival shows, fasting as meditation, and the influence of fasting on consumption perspective, highlighting its role in cultivating wisdom.

Jul 5, 2024 • 5min
The Perils of Anger | Stoic Meditation
Delve into the dangers of anger with insights from stoic philosophy. Learn how anger distorts rationality and judgment. Reflect on personal encounters with anger and strive for a more peaceful existence.

Jun 29, 2024 • 7min
On Changing Our Minds | Contemplation
📮 Want tools for the art of living? Sign up here: https://perennial.substack.com/subscribe The Way of Contemplation is a weekly series that delivers meditations, prompts, and practices on the art of living. These short guided contemplations are designed to help us think deeply about perennial ideas, questions, insights, and what it means to live an intentional life.--- 🖇️ Stay Connected: Twitter: https://twitter.com/PerennialPodsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/perennialmeditations/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PerennialPodsWebsite: https://www.perennialleader.com/--- 🦉 Additional Resources Related to the Podcast: Explore the Perennial Meditations archive: https://perennial.substack.com/archiveListen to more podcasts: https://www.perennialleader.com/podcasts

Jun 28, 2024 • 5min
The Art of Focus | Dying Every Day
Discover the transformative power of focus through Stoic meditation. This discussion reflects on insights from Seneca and Marcus Aurelius, urging listeners to examine their life's path and identify distractions. Emphasizing the importance of continuous learning, it encourages a pursuit of virtue over fleeting pleasures. Engage with thought-provoking quotes and reflection prompts that inspire a deeper understanding of what it means to live well.
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