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Mash Up Episode ft. A Late Summer Wrap-Up w/Tom Libby & Jesan Sorrells.---00:00 "Leadership Lessons: Bonus Mashup" 09:57 Health Decline Linked to Modern Diet 15:39 "Discussing Political Violence: Charlie Kirk" 17:57 University System's Impact on Leadership 26:10 Turning Point's 2024 Donor Concerns 28:01 Changing Cultural Engagement Dynamics 37:31 "John Oliver's Bold Independence" 38:05 Hollywood's Free Speech Dynamics 46:35 "Laughter Keeps Us Human" 52:35 FCC Chair Criticism and Kimmel Negotiation 54:34 Podcast Book Lineup for Fall: Why We Don't Learn from History, Empire of the Summer Moon, and More! 59:40 "Mongol Warfare: Old Meets New" 01:04:45 Cultural Inflection Point Analysis 01:11:53 Legacy of WWI: Conflict's Lessons 01:21:09 History's Dual Perspectives Needed 01:24:15 Rise of Robotic Warfare 01:30:07 "Rethinking Warfare and Territorial Disputes" 01:32:43 Colonial Distance Fosters Cooperation 01:37:47 Celestial Conflict: Human vs. Alien Agency --- Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air"  from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.--- Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!--- Subscribe to the Leadership Lessons From The Great Books Podcast: https://bit.ly/LLFTGBSubscribeCheck out Leadership ToolBox at: https://leadershiptoolbox.us/ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Empire of the Summer Moon: Quanah Parker and the Rise and Fall of the Comanches, the Most Powerful Indian Tribe in American History by S.C. Gwynne ---Exploring the rise and fall of the Comanches, this episode examines S.C. Gwynne’s Empire of the Summer Moon and its unflinching look at Native and settler histories during American westward expansion. The conversation focused on the legendary Comanche horsemanship, controversial narratives surrounding Native history, and the epic life of Cynthia Ann Parker and her son Quanah, the last great Comanche chief. A key theme that emerged was the complexity of cultural clashes, assimilation, and the framing of historical victories and tragedies in the American West. Book Title: Empire of the Summer MoonAuthor: S.C. GwynneGuest Names: Tom Libby, Jesan Sorrells---Time-Stamped Overview---00:00 Settling in Texas and Comanche Stories 09:21 Discussing authorship and perspective 11:16 Discussing historical narrative biases 18:14 Discussing barriers for diverse authors 25:28 Native ancestry and the Trail of Tears 30:16 Discussion on cultural history in America 33:57 Bering Strait theory and early inhabitants 39:55 Cultural differences across language bases 45:12 Discussing resource access disparities 49:40 Spanish colonization challenges 56:29 Depiction of Comanches' dominance 01:05:25 Colonial land acquisition strategies 01:10:27 Settlers' conflicts and government views 01:12:45 Discussing Cynthia Ann Parker's capture 01:20:40 Discussion on Comanche Nation history --- Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air"  from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.--- Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!--- Subscribe to the Leadership Lessons From The Great Books Podcast: https://bit.ly/LLFTGBSubscribeCheck out Leadership ToolBox at: https://leadershiptoolbox.us/  ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Infanterie Greift An. (Infantry Attacks) by Erwin Rommel ---Examining what leaders in business and civic life can learn from Erwin Rommel’s classic military account, Infantry Attacks, this episode dives into the value of tactical thinking, the reality of self-selection in civic engagement, and why direct, “boots on the ground” leadership outperforms over-reliance on technology. The hosts challenge prevalent objections to leveraging military strategy in the business world, shed light on the pitfalls of single-issue focus, and discuss how excellence in any domain demands courage, humility, and willingness to do hard things. Key insights are illustrated with both historical context and modern management parallels, making the lessons actionable for today’s leaders. Book: Infantry Attacks by Erwin RommelGuest: John Hill (Small Mountain)Host: Jesan Sorrells---Time-Stamped Overview---00:00 Applying Military Strategy to Business 07:09 Discussing legal vs. illegal immigration 13:07 Discussing intelligence tests for voting in elections17:22 The peril of single-issue voting 24:09 Reflecting on underlying issues 28:01 Understanding customer desires in sales 36:54 Military career and controversies 41:28 Discussing a compelling book choice 48:52 Aggressive training mindset shift 53:10 Impact of WWI on Germany 55:49 Comparing business to martial arts 01:01:03 Comparing Patton and Rommel's leadership 01:09:52 Criticism of Sales Leadership Practices 01:16:21 Traits of Successful Salespeople 01:17:50 Measuring true progress and success 01:26:03 Drone operators and military tactics 01:32:47 Discussing societal and personal cowardice 01:35:23 The book's mysterious disappearance --- Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air"  from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.--- Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!--- Subscribe to the Leadership Lessons From The Great Books Podcast: https://bit.ly/LLFTGBSubscribeCheck out Leadership ToolBox at: https://leadershiptoolbox.us/ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

The Builder’s Stone: How Jews and Christians Built the West—and Why Only They Can Save It by Melanie Phillips with Richard Messing and Jesan Sorrells---Exploring Melanie Phillips’ The Builder’s Stone, Jesan Sorrells and Richard Messing examine the pivotal role of Judeo-Christian values in shaping—and potentially saving—Western civilization. They discuss the cultural and ethical ramifications of the October 7th attacks, the loss of moral clarity and confidence in the West, and Phillips’ 10-point plan for revitalizing leadership and religious engagement. The conversation includes a candid analysis of religious divisions, the dangers of relativism, and the urgent need for ethical courage among today’s leaders. Book: The Builder’s Stone: How Jews and Christians Built the West and Why Only They Can Save It Author: Melanie Phillips Hosts: Jesan Sorrells, Richard Messing ---Time-Stamped Overview:---00:00 Religious practices saving the West 09:39 Post-Holocaust Jewish self-reliance 11:13 Melanie Phillips' political journey 20:20 Discussing The Book of Genesis and Theology 22:54 Discussing idolatry and priorities 31:45 Early feminism's Christian roots 35:36 Jewish history and survival 41:05 Debating Theological and Historical Issues 44:27 Differences between Israeli and Western Jews 54:31 Religious remnant idea and confidence 58:00 Challenges of Religious Confidence 01:06:00 Melanie's solution: Coalition proposal 01:09:48 Repentance and national sins discussion 01:17:09 National repentance and moral courage 01:20:47 Discussing spiritual solutions to problems 01:27:05 Reflections on October 7th events 01:29:26 Considering collaborating with someone --- Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air"  from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.--- Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!--- Subscribe to the Leadership Lessons From The Great Books Podcast: https://bit.ly/LLFTGBSubscribeCheck out Leadership ToolBox at: https://leadershiptoolbox.us/ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

The Man That I Would Become: Lessons from a Life of Hard Work, Faith and Purpose by Victor L. Bretting---Exploring the intersection of legacy, grit, and faith, this episode features a candid conversation with Victor Bretting about his memoir, The Man That I Would Become. The discussion unpacks the vital role of hunting in conservation and ecological stewardship, the necessity of resilience and discipline for the next generation of leaders, and how faith shapes enduring leadership and personal purpose. Listeners gain actionable insight on leading by example, persevering through adversity, and shaping a legacy that lasts beyond a single lifetime. Book Title: The Man That I Would BecomeAuthor: Victor BrettingHosts: Jesan Sorrells & Victor Bretting---Time-Stamped Overview:---00:00 Victor's hunting and ranching journey 03:24 Transitioning Ranch to Charity Work 06:34 Understanding conservation and its benefits 11:07 Books on masculinity and fatherhood 15:15 Balancing mental and physical work 16:11 Discussing empathy in construction 20:15 Understanding hard-headed empathy 24:27 Challenges for Young Professionals 28:28 Reflections on Upbringing and Family 30:49 Parenting different age groups 35:54 Importance of Biblical Foundations 39:37 Reflections on Retirement Life 43:34 Books every leader should read 44:49 Impactful books on teamwork---Connect with Victor by clicking the links below:--- Book: https://www.amazon.com/Man-That-Would-Become-Lessons/dp/B0H2BMNTFQ/Website: https://brettingtexanranch.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victor-bretting/--- Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air"  from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.--- Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!--- Subscribe to the Leadership Lessons From The Great Books Podcast: https://bit.ly/LLFTGBSubscribeCheck out Leadership ToolBox at: https://leadershiptoolbox.us/  ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Neuromancer by William Gibson with John Hill and Jesan Sorrells---Jesan Sorrells and John Hill dive deep into William Gibson’s Neuromancer, unravelling how this seminal work predicted the psychological and societal ramifications of our fully networked times. They discuss the book’s dystopian tech vision, how its themes shaped tech leadership and culture, and why leaders must now confront meaning, value, and noise in a flattened digital world. Together, they examine Gibson’s influences, the enduring tension between art and commerce, and the urgent leadership challenge of integrating humanity and technology in the 21st century. Book: NeuromancerAuthor: William GibsonGuests: Jesan Sorrells, John Hill---Time-Stamped Overview---00:00 Observing tech use at the store 05:36 Post-Cold War tech realities 11:57 Reflecting on book rereads 17:52 Influence of Gibson on tech leaders 27:13 Gibson's shift from sci-fi 32:45 Struggling with overwhelming concerns 38:31 Sci-fi themes of immortality 43:09 Themes of timeless cultural issues 49:49 Tolkien's Influence on Fantasy Writers 52:51 Reflecting on cyberspace concepts 01:01:13 Discussing Neuromancer's Relevance Today 01:02:47 Discussion on demonizing new trends 01:11:43 Finding time for self-reflection 01:14:47 Discussing hierarchy of meaning 01:21:45 Expanding the franchise legally 01:27:45 Discussing human nature and warfare --- Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air"  from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.--- Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!--- Subscribe to the Leadership Lessons From The Great Books Podcast: https://bit.ly/LLFTGBSubscribeCheck out Leadership ToolBox at: https://leadershiptoolbox.us/ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Cosmopolis by Don DeLillo with Tom Libby and Jesan Sorrells---Dive into Don DeLillo’s Cosmopolis as Jesan Sorrells and Tom Libby unpack the novel’s critique of leadership in an era of wealth, technology, and cultural upheaval. They discuss the dangers of disconnected leadership, the ongoing crisis of accountability among elites, and the pitfalls of managing strictly by data and dashboards. The episode draws sharp parallels between fictional failures and real-world leadership challenges, offering actionable lessons for those navigating today’s ever-shifting leadership landscape. Book Title: CosmopolisAuthor: Don DeLilloHosts: Jesan Sorrells, Tom Libby---Time-Stamped Overview---00:00 Eric Packer's limousine journey. 09:54 Discussing a prolific modernist author. 16:00 DeLillo's risk-taking in writing. 17:47 Reflecting on character minimalism. 25:36 Discussing key themes in book and movie. 28:33 Early AI's impact on finance. 35:52 Challenges of Leadership Disconnect. 41:42 Billionaires don't live in my town. 49:38 Reflecting on 9/11 emotions. 55:27 Catharsis in Cosmopolis. 56:19 Reflections on WWII veterans' honor. 01:06:32 AI accountability in decision-making. 01:09:49 Wealth Redistribution for Global Issues. 01:15:24 Discussing money and character. 01:18:23 Exploring Worldview and Character Development. 01:27:08 Discussing a retirement plan. 01:31:38 The crisis of tech outpacing morality. 01:35:09 Gut feeling vs data in decisions. 01:40:30 Leadership lessons from Cosmopolis by Don DeLillo. --- Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air"  from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.--- Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!--- Subscribe to the Leadership Lessons From The Great Books Podcast: https://bit.ly/LLFTGBSubscribeCheck out Leadership ToolBox at: https://leadershiptoolbox.us/ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

"Harrison Bergeron" by Kurt Vonnegut with Jesan Sorrells and Libby Unger---Diving into Kurt Vonnegut’s Welcome to the Monkey House, Jesan Sorrells and Libby Unger examine the prophetic warnings about conformity, institutional control, and the battle over language and individual agency. The conversation connects the stories “Harrison Bergeron,” “Report on the Barnhouse Effect,” and “Where I Live” to today’s challenges for leaders navigating a culture of safetyism, linguistic manipulation, and technological disruption. Practical takeaways center around preserving individual responsibility, resisting institutional overreach, and regrounding leadership in local, real-world community. Book title: Welcome to the Monkey HouseAuthor: Kurt VonnegutHost: Jesan Sorrells, Guest: Libby Unger---Time-Stamped Overview:---00:00 Discussing 20th-century sci-fi authors 08:46 Kurt Vonnegut's literary journey 12:12 High school memories and Vonnegut 18:13 Publication dates and context of stories 26:07 Lindsay Clancy's controversial trial 27:31 Jury deadlock in Lindsey Clancy case 34:20 Reflecting on Gloria Steinem's Impact 42:31 Authors and technology of books 47:38 Vonnegut's views on language usage 52:27 Technology, communication, and culture overlap 58:36 Hourglass analogy and chaotic transitions 01:01:24 Impact of 2020 lockdowns 01:05:56 Barnhouse effect report analysis 01:16:06 Discussing global conflict and climate agendas 01:19:58 American culture and equality debate 01:27:48 Reflecting on personal growth 01:32:19 Exploring an abandoned harbor clubhouse 01:34:09 Wendell Berry and localism themes 01:43:28 Local community and cultural shift ---- Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air"  from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.--- Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!--- Subscribe to the Leadership Lessons From The Great Books Podcast: https://bit.ly/LLFTGBSubscribeCheck out Leadership ToolBox at: https://leadershiptoolbox.us/--- ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

A Conversation on How to Lead in a Post-Literate Work World---The panel examines the meaning and crisis of literacy in a post-literate society and what it means for 21st-century leadership. The discussion highlights how declining long-form reading impacts critical thinking, decision-making, and social cohesion, while exploring the evolving responsibilities of leaders as communicators, teachers, and curators of insight in a digital, short-attention world. Practical strategies and perspectives are shared for bridging generational gaps, fostering book-based conversation, and adapting leadership to new realities. Mentioned Book Titles and Authors: Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor FranklLeadership Lessons from the Five Books of Moses by Jonathan SacksThe Odyssey by Homer (referencing Emily Wilson’s translation)Notes from Underground by Fyodor DostoevskyHeart of Darkness by Joseph ConradThings Fall Apart by Chinua AchebeUlysses by Alfred, Lord TennysonMere Christianity by C.S. LewisThe Federalist Papers and Anti-Federalist PapersCrime and Punishment by Fyodor DostoevskyOutwitting the Devil by Napoleon HillHost:  Jesan SorrellsGuest Panelists: Richard MessingJohn HillTom LibbyBrian BagleyHana Kabele GalaNeal KalechofskyDorollo Nixon, Jr.David BaumruckerChristen B. HorneDr. Moumin QuaziHana Kabele Gala---The Articles that Inspired the Conversation: The End of Reading is Here by Rose Horowich - https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/2026/08/reading-crisis-postliterate-age/687618/Leading in the Post-Literate West by Jesan Sorrells - https://jesanmsorrells.micro.blog/2026/07/16/leading-in-the-postliterate-west.html--- Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air"  from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.--- Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!--- Subscribe to the Leadership Lessons From The Great Books Podcast: https://bit.ly/LLFTGBSubscribeCheck out Leadership ToolBox at: https://leadershiptoolbox.us/ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

The Power of the Powerless by Vaclav Havel [REDUX] w/Harvey Seifter & Jesan Sorrells---Exploring Václav Havel’s influential essay, The Power of the Powerless, Jesan Sorrells and Harvey Seifter unpack what it means for leaders to “live in truth” in the face of societal conformity. They examine the dangers of moral and cultural hollowness, the practical implications of dissidence, and how authentic leadership begins with individual conscience rather than systemic change. The episode also connects Havel’s ideas to modern challenges in leadership, ethics, and the search for a transcendent anchor in turbulent times. Book: The Power of the PowerlessAuthor: Václav HavelGuest: Harvey Seifter Host: Jesan Sorrells---Time-Stamped Outline:---00:00 Discussing "The Power of the Powerless" 11:43 Forming and Scaling Arts-Based Organizations 17:12 Raising kids as future leaders 23:11 Discussing LLMs and historical figures 24:37 Discovering Vaclav Havel's Plays 30:48 Generational challenges in Hollywood writing 37:13 The need for societal self-reflection 42:12 Rereading a book in Prague 46:35 Reflecting on 9/11 and authenticity 52:32 Weekly Bible discussion lunch 57:36 Relatable job struggles and realities 01:05:45 Feeling disconnected from larger systems 01:08:49 Havel's philosophy on private pursuits 01:16:14 Turning to Biblical truth 01:23:22 Exploring the concept of truth 01:28:10 Value of truth in oppressive regimes 01:34:33 Differentiating ethics from morals 01:40:03 Connection between arts and ethical leadership 01:42:09 Empowering leaders for innovation ---Connect with Harvey Seifter by clicking on the links below: Creating Futures That Work - https://futuresthatwork.com/The Art of Science Learning - https://www.artofsciencelearning.org/Harvey Seifter LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/hseifter/--- Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air"  from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.--- Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!--- Subscribe to the Leadership Lessons From The Great Books Podcast: https://bit.ly/LLFTGBSubscribeCheck out Leadership ToolBox at: https://leadershiptoolbox.us/ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

The Life of Henry V by William Shakespeare w/Jesan Sorrells and Zac Stucki---Delving into William Shakespeare’s The Life of Henry V, Jesan Sorrells and Zac Stucki analyze the cultural foundation of leadership, the decline of cultural confidence in Western societies, and the complex responsibilities leaders face when making consequential decisions. They connect Shakespeare’s lessons on accountability and mentorship to today’s leadership crises—highlighting generational gaps, the impact of cultural narratives, and how leaders can prepare to uphold a standard in turbulent times. Play: The Life of Henry VAuthor: William ShakespeareGuest: Zac StuckiHost: Jesan Sorrells---Time-Stamped Outline:---00:00 Debating France's royal succession 21:07 Discussing OK Boomer Cultural Dynamics 24:34 Emergence of New Political Powers 42:06 Discussing future Shakespeare episodes 43:58 Portraying the French as complex characters 01:00:11 The thin red line of America 01:05:25 Shakespeare's historical context and audience 01:23:28 Defining true intelligence beyond academics 01:31:32 Child's simple requests for water 01:46:11 Current insurgency tactics and alliances 01:55:04 Post-War Nuremberg Trials Discussion 02:00:40 Discussing moral standards and politics 02:15:59 Discussing King Harry's Agincourt dilemma 02:28:08 Learning from older generations 02:35:29 Wrapping up the podcast episode --- Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air"  from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.--- Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!--- Subscribe to the Leadership Lessons From The Great Books Podcast: https://bit.ly/LLFTGBSubscribeCheck out Leadership ToolBox at: https://leadershiptoolbox.us/. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

The Tragedy of Coriolanus by William Shakespeare w/John Hill and Jesan Sorrells---Unpacking Shakespeare’s The Tragedy of Coriolanus, this episode draws out timeless leadership insights on integrity, social hierarchies, and the tension between individual values and the demands of the group. The hosts explore how Coriolanus’ unwavering personal code clashes with political and social expectations, what the play reveals about family as the first organizational structure, and why the forces of social conformity remain so powerful for modern leaders. The discussion also connects classic themes to today’s leadership challenges, including sales management, organizational power, and navigating cultural shifts in a digitized world. Play Title: The Tragedy of CoriolanusAuthor: William ShakespeareHosts: Jesan Sorrells (Host); John Hill aka Small Mountain (Co-host)---Time-Stamps:---00:00 Welcome and Introduction - The Tragedy of Coriolanus by William Shakespeare 02:49 Information overload and war reporting. 10:39 European history and colonization context of Coriolanus. 25:35 Shakespeare's portrayal of motherhood in Coriolanus. 35:15 Discussing a sales coach's priorities. 44:53 Historical view on war from Coriolanus as opportunity. 55:22 Coriolanus's pride and public perception. 01:10:39 Challenges in sales and marketing ethics. 01:18:22 Realizing the value of partnership. 01:29:00 Redefining the employee-supervisor relationship. 01:38:05 Dealing with manipulative conversations. 01:49:55 Conversations on genuine apologies. 02:02:21 Discussing Volumnia from Coriolanus. 02:10:34 Finding Your Own Community. 02:28:00 Discussing salesperson job interviews. 02:29:48 Encouraging kids to ask why. --- Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air"  from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.--- Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!--- Subscribe to the Leadership Lessons From The Great Books Podcast: https://bit.ly/LLFTGBSubscribeCheck out Leadership ToolBox at: https://leadershiptoolbox.us/ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

The Tragedy of Macbeth by William Shakespeare w/Katie Mestres & Jesan Sorrells---Exploring William Shakespeare’s Macbeth, this episode examines the enduring power of tragic storytelling in leadership and culture. The conversation focused on why Macbeth continues to resonate with modern audiences, the complexities of Lady Macbeth’s ambition and gender roles, and how marriage dynamics shape decision-making under pressure. Key themes include the absence of redemption in tragedy, lessons for leaders about ambition and balance, and the timeless human struggle to make meaning from adversity. Book: MacbethAuthor: William ShakespeareGuest: Jesan Sorrells (Host) Katie Mestres (Guest)---Time-Stamped Overview---00:00 Battle update for King Duncan 06:33 Exploring Macbeth's tragedy and relevance today 11:17 Analyzing A.C. Bradley's perspective on Macbeth 17:47 Modern interpretation of Macbeth's design and themes 26:29 Modernizing Shakespeare for Today's Audience 31:43 Shakespeare's Role in Historical Popular Entertainment 37:50 Lady Macbeth learns of the prophecy 43:55 Lady Macbeth and expectations of women leaders 48:04 Lady Macbeth's challenge to gender norms 51:35 Discussing European History and Enlightenment Origins 01:00:10 Lady Macbeth, gender roles, and ambition 01:05:56 Exploring Enlightenment ideas and assumptions 01:10:31 Struggling with narrative amid tragedy ---Resources Featured Book: William Shakespeare: A Brief Life by Paul Menzer.The best primer for understanding the man behind the plays. 37:01Performance Picks:Macbeth (dir. Justin Kurzel; Michael Fassbender & Marion Cotillard). Available on Amazon Prime.BBC Macbeth (David Tennant)--- Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air"  from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.--- Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!--- Subscribe to the Leadership Lessons From The Great Books Podcast: https://bit.ly/LLFTGBSubscribeCheck out Leadership ToolBox at: https://leadershiptoolbox.us/ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

The Federalist and Anti-Federalist Papers - What Lies at the Bottom of Our Constitutional Order w/Dorollo Nixon--- Jesan Sorrells and Dorollo Nixon, Jr. examine the foundational debates framing citizenship, rights, and law in the United States through readings from The Federalist Papers and recent (2026) Supreme Court case analysis. They discuss the evolving meanings of “a more perfect union,” birthright citizenship under the 14th Amendment, Fourth Amendment protections in the digital age, and the challenges of culture and authority facing contemporary American leadership. Supreme Court rulings on mass migration, surveillance, and biological reality take center stage as turning points shaping the future of the republic and the prospects for building strong, resilient communities. Book Title: The Federalist PapersAuthor: Alexander Hamilton (and others)Guest Names: Jesan Sorrells, Dorollo Nixon, Jr.---Time-Stamped Overview---00:00 Federal government's defense authority - Federalist No.23  05:31 Founders' views on human nature 11:34 Birthright citizenship and legal debates 20:44 Discussing elite influence on legislation 26:21 Justice Jackson's modern writing style 30:38 Discussing Virginia Convention Amendments 35:27 Discussion on privacy rights 43:59 Justice Frankfurter's memoirs discussion 49:47 Discussing crime and lack of protests 52:08 Artificial intelligence and tech giants 01:01:16 Judicial tenure and good behavior 01:03:43 Discussing Supreme Court cases and biological reality 01:08:41 Worldviews and legislative influence 01:16:14 Christian communities and leadership dynamics 01:22:57 Social media spectacle and republic concerns 01:29:37 Building Community and Support Systems 01:30:40 Discussing what America is not --- Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air"  from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.--- Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!--- Subscribe to the Leadership Lessons From The Great Books Podcast: https://bit.ly/LLFTGBSubscribeCheck out Leadership ToolBox at: https://leadershiptoolbox.us/  ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

The Odyssey by Homer, translation by T.E. Shaw (Lawrence of Arabia) w/Jesan Sorrells---Examining Homer’s epic, The Odyssey, this episode dives into timeless leadership lessons for modern managers and entrepreneurs. The conversation focused on the decline from heroic responsibility to entitlement in Western culture, the enduring value of facing challenges head-on, and the need for leaders to reclaim meaning by embracing tradition and personal accountability. Insights from translator T.E. Lawrence’s life and work sharpen the discussion on navigating today’s cultural shifts with courage and clarity. Book Title: The OdysseyAuthor: Homer (T.E. Lawrence translation)Guest Names: Jesan Sorrells (Host)---Time Stamped Overview---00:00 Critique of modern society's values 07:01 Public institutions and heroism decline 15:33 Odysseus receives gifts and journey 22:31 Understanding the author's limitations 24:43 Lawrence of Arabia's wartime role 31:21 Odysseus arrives at the Cyclops' island 40:29 Blinding the Cyclops 42:19 Impact of Nietzschean philosophy 49:27 Odysseus doubts he's home 57:33 Understanding the Odyssey's broader impact 01:01:10 Lessons for leaders from The Odyssey 01:06:50 Conclusion and book promotion --- Opening theme composed by Felipe Sarro - Bach - Silotti - "Air"  from Orchestra Suite No. 3, BWV 1068 Closing theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.--- Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!--- Subscribe to the Leadership Lessons From The Great Books Podcast: https://bit.ly/LLFTGBSubscribeCheck out Leadership ToolBox at: https://leadershiptoolbox.us/ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ---