

Chasing Leviathan
CG Productions
Who thinks that they can subdue Leviathan? Strength resides in its neck; dismay goes before it. It is without fear. It looks down on all who are haughty; it is king over all who are proud. These words inspired PJ Wehry to create Chasing Leviathan. Chasing Leviathan was born out of two ideals: that truth is worth pursuing but will never be subjugated, and the discipline of listening is one of the most important habits anyone can develop. Every episode is a dialogue, a journey into the depths of a meaningful question explored through the lens of personal experience or professional expertise.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 28, 2025 • 1h 3min
Plotting Agrarian Futures in the Global Black South with Dr. Jarvis McInnis
In this episode, Dr. Jarvis McInnis, author of Afterlives of the Plantation, joins PJ to explore the deep cultural, intellectual, and historical legacy of Black life in the American South. Focusing on the Tuskegee Institute and the complex legacy of Booker T. Washington, McInnis reveals how Black communities transformed the plantation’s afterlives into spaces of creativity, education, and empowerment.In this episode, Dr. Jarvis McInnis, author of Afterlives of the Plantation, joins PJ to explore the deep cultural, intellectual, and historical legacy of Black life in the American South. Focusing on the Tuskegee Institute and the complex legacy of Booker T. Washington, McInnis reveals how Black communities transformed the plantation’s afterlives into spaces of creativity, education, and empowerment.Make sure to check out Dr. McInnis' book: Afterlives of the Plantation: Plotting Agrarian Futures in the Global Black South 👉 https://www.amazon.com/dp/0231215754Check out our blog on www.candidgoatproductions.comWho thinks that they can subdue Leviathan? Strength resides in its neck; dismay goes before it. When it rises up, the mighty are terrified. Nothing on earth is its equal. It is without fear. It looks down on all who are haughty; it is king over all who are proud. These words inspired PJ Wehry to create Chasing Leviathan. Chasing Leviathan was born out of two ideals: that truth is worth pursuing but will never be subjugated, and the discipline of listening is one of the most important habits anyone can develop. Every episode is a dialogue, a journey into the depths of a meaningful question explored through the lens of personal experience or professional expertise.

Oct 21, 2025 • 46min
How the Great Books Changed My Life & Why They Matter for a New Generation with Dr. Roosevelt Montás
Join us as Dr. Roosevelt Montás, author of Rescuing Socrates, explores the transformative power of a liberal education. In this conversation, Montás critiques the current state of American higher education and advocates for a holistic approach that fosters self-reflection, empathy, civic engagement, and character development. He shares insights from his personal journey, highlighting how great literature, philosophy, and dialogue can shape individuals for a meaningful life.Learn why liberal education matters for human flourishing, how exposure to diverse perspectives builds empathy, and why preparing for democratic citizenship goes beyond vocational skills. This episode is essential listening for educators, students, and anyone interested in the future of learning.Make sure to check out Dr. Montás' book: Rescuing Socrates: How the Great Books Changed My Life and Why They Matter for a New Generation 👉 https://www.amazon.com/dp/0691200394Check out our blog on www.candidgoatproductions.comWho thinks that they can subdue Leviathan? Strength resides in its neck; dismay goes before it. When it rises up, the mighty are terrified. Nothing on earth is its equal. It is without fear. It looks down on all who are haughty; it is king over all who are proud. These words inspired PJ Wehry to create Chasing Leviathan. Chasing Leviathan was born out of two ideals: that truth is worth pursuing but will never be subjugated, and the discipline of listening is one of the most important habits anyone can develop. Every episode is a dialogue, a journey into the depths of a meaningful question explored through the lens of personal experience or professional expertise.

Oct 14, 2025 • 1h 3min
The Second Estate: How the Tax Code Made an American Aristocracy with Ray Madoff
In this episode, Ray Madoff, author of The Second Estate, breaks down how the U.S. tax code has enabled the wealthiest Americans to avoid paying their fair share, creating a modern aristocracy. She explains why understanding taxes is essential for every citizen and highlights the strategies the wealthy use to minimize their tax burden. The conversation explores the role of inheritance, the shortcomings of the estate tax, and how complex tax rules disproportionately benefit the rich. Madoff also discusses potential reforms aimed at creating a fairer system, including treating inheritances as ordinary income. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in wealth inequality, tax policy, and the societal implications of a system that favors the ultra-wealthy. Make sure to check out Ray Madoff's book: The Second Estate 👉 https://https://www.amazon.com/dp/0226835200/Check out our blog on www.candidgoatproductions.comWho thinks that they can subdue Leviathan? Strength resides in its neck; dismay goes before it. When it rises up, the mighty are terrified. Nothing on earth is its equal. It is without fear. It looks down on all who are haughty; it is king over all who are proud. These words inspired PJ Wehry to create Chasing Leviathan. Chasing Leviathan was born out of two ideals: that truth is worth pursuing but will never be subjugated, and the discipline of listening is one of the most important habits anyone can develop. Every episode is a dialogue, a journey into the depths of a meaningful question explored through the lens of personal experience or professional expertise.

Oct 7, 2025 • 1h 6min
Every Noise at Once: Spotify, Music Discovery, and Human Connection with Glenn McDonald
What makes music more than sound? Glenn McDonald, data engineer, author of You Have Not Yet Heard Your Favorite Song, and former Spotify “genre taxonomist,” joins host PJ Wehry to explore the transformative power of music. From shaping Spotify’s genre mapping system to creating the interactive discovery project Every Noise at Once, Glenn reveals how algorithms, data, and human curiosity come together to influence the way we find and connect with music.In this episode, dive into the hidden world of streaming, the evolution of genres as communities, and the emotional and cultural impact of the songs we love. Learn how technology changes our listening habits, why music remains one of the most human things we do, and how discovery, data, and creativity unite listeners across the globe. Make sure to check out the following from Glenn McDonald: You Have Not Yet Heard Your Favorite Song 👉 https://www.amazon.com/dp/191448715XEvery Noise at Once 👉 https://everynoise.com/Check out our blog on www.candidgoatproductions.com Who thinks that they can subdue Leviathan? Strength resides in its neck; dismay goes before it. When it rises up, the mighty are terrified. Nothing on earth is its equal. It is without fear. It looks down on all who are haughty; it is king over all who are proud. These words inspired PJ Wehry to create Chasing Leviathan. Chasing Leviathan was born out of two ideals: that truth is worth pursuing but will never be subjugated, and the discipline of listening is one of the most important habits anyone can develop. Every episode is a dialogue, a journey into the depths of a meaningful question explored through the lens of personal experience or professional expertise.

Sep 30, 2025 • 56min
From Bismarck to WWII: Lessons from the German Empire with Dr. Roger Chickering
In this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ sits down with Dr. Roger Chickering, Professor Emeritus of History at Georgetown University and author of The German Empire, 1871–1918. Together they unpack the rise of modern Germany, the role of Bismarck and Wilhelm II, and how debates around the Sonderweg thesis shape our understanding of the First World War and the path to WWII.Dr. Chickering explores the political dynamics of the German Empire, from the struggles between liberals, conservatives, Catholics, and socialists, to Germany’s ambitious welfare programs and colonial pursuits. He also reflects on what lessons Germany’s history offers us today, including warnings about populism, authoritarianism, and the dangers of unchecked hegemonic ambition.Make sure to check out Dr. Chickering's book: The German Empire, 1871–1918 👉 https://www.amazon.com/dp/1107026741Check out our blog on www.candidgoatproductions.com Who thinks that they can subdue Leviathan? Strength resides in its neck; dismay goes before it. When it rises up, the mighty are terrified. Nothing on earth is its equal. It is without fear. It looks down on all who are haughty; it is king over all who are proud. These words inspired PJ Wehry to create Chasing Leviathan. Chasing Leviathan was born out of two ideals: that truth is worth pursuing but will never be subjugated, and the discipline of listening is one of the most important habits anyone can develop. Every episode is a dialogue, a journey into the depths of a meaningful question explored through the lens of personal experience or professional expertise.

Sep 23, 2025 • 57min
Richard Hooker, John Locke, and the Ascent of Modern Constitutionalism with Dr. Alexander Rosenthal-Pubul
In this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ and Dr. Alexander Rosenthal-Pubul discuss his book 'Crown under Law: Richard Hooker, John Locke, and the Ascent of Modern Constitutionalism.' Dr. Rosenthal-Pubul contrasts Hooker's views with those of Hobbes, delves into the historical context of Elizabethan England, and examines how Hooker's ideas influenced Locke's political philosophy. The discussion highlights the relevance of these thinkers in understanding modern governance and the foundations of political obligation.Make sure to check out Dr. Rosenthal-Pubul's book: Crown under Law: Richard Hooker, John Locke, and the Ascent of Modern Constitutionalism 👉 https://www.amazon.com/dp/0739124137Check out our blog on www.candidgoatproductions.comWho thinks that they can subdue Leviathan? Strength resides in its neck; dismay goes before it. When it rises up, the mighty are terrified. Nothing on earth is its equal. It is without fear. It looks down on all who are haughty; it is king over all who are proud. These words inspired PJ Wehry to create Chasing Leviathan. Chasing Leviathan was born out of two ideals: that truth is worth pursuing but will never be subjugated, and the discipline of listening is one of the most important habits anyone can develop. Every episode is a dialogue, a journey into the depths of a meaningful question explored through the lens of personal experience or professional expertise.

Sep 16, 2025 • 1h 3min
Signs from the Future: A Philosophy of Warnings with Dr. Santiago Zabala
In this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ and Dr. Santiago Zabala discuss his book, 'Signs from the Future: A Philosophy of Warnings.' They explore the intriguing concept of warnings as philosophical tools, discussing how they address the absence of emergencies and the role of philosophy in society. The conversation touches on the importance of listening and interpretation in tackling global challenges like climate change and artificial intelligence. Join us for an engaging discussion that challenges conventional thinking and highlights the urgent need for community engagement and philosophical insight.Make sure to check out Dr. Zabala's book: Signs from the Future: A Philosophy of Warnings 👉 https://www.amazon.com/dp/023122172X/Check out our blog on www.candidgoatproductions.comWho thinks that they can subdue Leviathan? Strength resides in its neck; dismay goes before it. When it rises up, the mighty are terrified. Nothing on earth is its equal. It is without fear. It looks down on all who are haughty; it is king over all who are proud. These words inspired PJ Wehry to create Chasing Leviathan. Chasing Leviathan was born out of two ideals: that truth is worth pursuing but will never be subjugated, and the discipline of listening is one of the most important habits anyone can develop. Every episode is a dialogue, a journey into the depths of a meaningful question explored through the lens of personal experience or professional expertise.

Sep 9, 2025 • 1h 5min
The Invention of Infinite Growth with Dr. Christopher F. Jones
In this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ and Dr. Christopher F. Jones discuss his book, 'The Invention of Infinite Growth,' exploring the historical and intellectual evolution of economic growth theories. Dr. Jones highlights the tension between economists and environmentalists, the historical context of growth, and the implications of our current obsession with growth. Dr. Jones argues for a rethinking of growth in light of sustainability and well-being, emphasizing the need for a societal shift away from infinite growth towards a more equitable and sustainable future.Make sure to check out Dr. Jones' book: The Invention of Infinite Growth: How Economists Came to Believe a Dangerous Delusion 👉 https://www.amazon.com/dp/022672204X/Check out our blog on www.candidgoatproductions.comWho thinks that they can subdue Leviathan? Strength resides in its neck; dismay goes before it. When it rises up, the mighty are terrified. Nothing on earth is its equal. It is without fear. It looks down on all who are haughty; it is king over all who are proud. These words inspired PJ Wehry to create Chasing Leviathan. Chasing Leviathan was born out of two ideals: that truth is worth pursuing but will never be subjugated, and the discipline of listening is one of the most important habits anyone can develop. Every episode is a dialogue, a journey into the depths of a meaningful question explored through the lens of personal experience or professional expertise.

Sep 2, 2025 • 50min
Wrongs & Rights Come Apart with Dr. Nicolas Cornell
In this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ and Dr. Nicolas Cornell discuss his book 'Wrongs and Rights Come Apart,' exploring the complex relationship between rights and wrongs in moral philosophy. Dr. Cornell delves into real-life and literary examples to illustrate how rights and wrongs can diverge, emphasizing the importance of understanding these concepts in a nuanced way. The discussion also touches on cultural perspectives, the role of literature in philosophy, and the implications of rights in moral life.Make sure to check out Dr. Cornell's book: Wrongs and Rights Come Apart, 👉 https://www.hup.harvard.edu/books/9780674244979Check out our blog on www.candidgoatproductions.comWho thinks that they can subdue Leviathan? Strength resides in its neck; dismay goes before it. When it rises up, the mighty are terrified. Nothing on earth is its equal. It is without fear. It looks down on all who are haughty; it is king over all who are proud. These words inspired PJ Wehry to create Chasing Leviathan. Chasing Leviathan was born out of two ideals: that truth is worth pursuing but will never be subjugated, and the discipline of listening is one of the most important habits anyone can develop. Every episode is a dialogue, a journey into the depths of a meaningful question explored through the lens of personal experience or professional expertise.

Aug 26, 2025 • 48min
A Philosophy of Beauty: Shaftesbury on Nature, Virtue, & Art with Dr. Michael B. Gill
In this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ and Dr. Michael B. Gill discuss his book on Shaftesbury's philosophy of beauty, exploring the historical context, the artistic nature of Shaftesbury's writing, and his influence on moral philosophy. The discussion delves into the concepts of integrity, human motivation, and the importance of positivity in philosophy. Dr. Gill also contrasts Shaftesbury's views with those of John Locke and examines Shaftesbury's stance on religion and miracles, ultimately encouraging listeners to view their lives as works of art.Make sure to check out Dr. Gill's book: A Philosophy of Beauty: Shaftesbury on Nature, Virtue, and Art 👉 https://www.amazon.com/dp/069122661X/Check out our blog on www.candidgoatproductions.comWho thinks that they can subdue Leviathan? Strength resides in its neck; dismay goes before it. When it rises up, the mighty are terrified. Nothing on earth is its equal. It is without fear. It looks down on all who are haughty; it is king over all who are proud. These words inspired PJ Wehry to create Chasing Leviathan. Chasing Leviathan was born out of two ideals: that truth is worth pursuing but will never be subjugated, and the discipline of listening is one of the most important habits anyone can develop. Every episode is a dialogue, a journey into the depths of a meaningful question explored through the lens of personal experience or professional expertise.


