Talking points: history, mythology, archetypes, culture

I’ve recently been asked to dig more into the deeper stuff, and who better to delve into the history of the ancients than Alex Petkas. We dig into how important history and story can be, how modern society has watered down the hero archetype, and who we can learn from in ancient history to re-inspire us. This is great ep to dig into if you’re searching for actual heroes, not just what you see on TV.

(00:00:00) - What was the role of the “hero” in ancient history, and is it important for a healthy society?

(00:12:40) - What happens when you kill off the hero in you, and the balanced masculinity of Odysseus

(00:22:47) - How to restore a more generative hero archetype, and how we’ve made heroes one-dimensional

(00:30:41) - What Plutarch can teach men

(00:40:59) - Ancient heroes men can learn from, or who the hell is Eumenes of Chardia?

(00:55:14) - The power of narrative

Alex Petkas is writer, entrepreneur, and founder of The Cost of Glory, a bridge for the virtues of ancient heroes and the modern world’s demands. With a PhD in Classics from Princeton University, Alex has transcended traditional academic boundaries to bring the power of ancient wisdom into contemporary leadership. Recognizing that figures like Plato, Aristotle, Plutarch, and Cato were not just intellectual giants but also formidable leaders and entrepreneurs, he blends their timeless insights with modern leadership needs, offering actionable strategies that resonate with today’s leaders. Alex challenges the modern disregard for classical education, championing its vital role in moral and intellectual development. His mission is to reignite the heroic spark within men, empowering them to tackle contemporary challenges with unmatched courage and clarity.

Connect with Alex

-Website: https://www.costofglory.com/

-The Authoritative Speakers Guide: https://costofglory.kit.com/gift

-Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexpetkas/

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talking points: anxiety, psychology, relationships

If you've ever been with someone who struggles with anxiety, this one's for you. A lot of men lean heavily into trying to fix things, even making it their entire mission. Here are some alternative steps that respect responsibility, autonomy, and help strengthen the relationship.

(00:00:00) - Intro, my working definition of anxiety, and the many places it comes from

(00:05:42) - Signs of anxiety in your partner

(00:10:47) - So what do you do? On reinforcement and co-regulation

(00:14:59) - Attune to her signs, and physical touch

(00:17:36) - How to balance leaning into discomfort with backing off

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Pick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/

Heard about attachment but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To Attachment

Check out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your Relationship

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Talking points: masculinity, psychology, myth, Jung

Hot on the heels of the legendary John Lee, I interviewed another founding elder of men's work: Michael Meade. This is a powerful discussion focused on how essential "descent" is for men, and how it's almost completely disappeared from society in favor of endless, destructive growth and commodified "mastery". Powerful words from one of the wisest teachers out there, in my opinion.

(00:00:00) - The importance of descent in a man’s life

(00:11:51) - The signs of descent, and the role of technology

(00:22:28) - How the old worldview has collapsed, and the result is collective despair and grief

(00:29:39) - How do you deal with the feeling that things are ending?

(00:35:20) - The intersection of myth and AI; will they come together?

(00:41:29) - Where does the descent actually lead, and the symbolism of water and sword

(00:55:13) - How to “get the water”

Michael Meade, born and raised in New York City, is a renowned storyteller, author, and scholar of mythology, anthropology, and psychology. He combines hypnotic and fiery storytelling, street-savvy perceptiveness, and spellbinding interpretations of ancient myths with a deep knowledge of cross-cultural rituals. His ability to tap into ancestral sources of wisdom to help people of today heal their communities has inspired thousands of people throughout the world. His unique translations of age-old myths and symbols into culturally relevant, everyday language earned him an honorary Doctorate in Humane Letters from Pacifica Graduate Institute. Michael is also the founder of Mosaic Multicultural Foundation and author of The Genius Myth, The Water of Life, The World Behind the World, Fate and Destiny, and Why the World Doesn't End. He is co-editor of The Rag and Bone Shop of the Heart, and editor of the cross-cultural anthology on rites of passage: Crossroads: A Quest for Contemporary Rites of Passage.

Connect with Michael:

-Podcast: Living Myth: https://www.mosaicvoices.org/podcast

-Website: https://www.mosaicvoices.org/

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Pick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/

Heard of attachment theory but don’t know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To Attachment

Check out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your Relationship

Build brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance.

Enjoy the podcast? If so, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the