Leadership Lessons From The Great Books

The Man Who Was Thursday by G. K. Chesterton ---This episode dives into G.K. Chesterton’s novel The Man Who Was Thursday, exploring its psychedelic narrative twists, literary influences, and enduring philosophical questions for leaders. Jesan Sorrells and guest Neal Kalechofsky discuss Chesterton’s critique of nihilism and anarchy, the book’s connections to figures like Nietzsche and Tolkien, and the challenge of retaining moral clarity in an age saturated by distraction and technology. They reflect on the power of literature to transmit subversive ideas, the legacy of Western tradition, and the importance of rooting leadership in deeper values rather than fleeting trends.Book Title: The Man Who Was ThursdayAuthor: G.K. ChestertonGuests: Jesan Sorrells (Host), Neal Kalechofsky (Guest)---Time Stamped Overview---00:00 Welcome and Introduction - The Man Who Was Thursday.05:30 Discussing G.K. Chesterton's The Man Who Was Thursday.15:41 Watching Benny Hill before school.18:17 The psychedelic ending explained.25:23 Will there ever be another Tolkien?28:53 How we pigeonhole people.34:50 How the internet changed TV.41:59 Explaining Gabriel Syme’s investigation.43:03 Gregory explains his anarchist beliefs.48:13 History of anarchism and influence.57:00 Discussing anarchists in Chesterton's time.59:03 Discussing moral dilemmas in Dark Knight.01:04:29 Hannah Arendt and the Eichmann trial.01:12:48 Chesterton's views on anarchy.01:19:23 Chesterton on class and physicality.01:23:43 Podcasting and discussing theories.01:29:37 Exploring the dark side of leadership.01:34:58 Training with a higher-ranked partner.01:40:05 Early comic influences and changes.01:44:30 Marvel's rise in popular culture.01:47:00 Listening to music on vinyl.01:53:36 Staying on the Path with The Man Who Was Thursday.---Opening 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!--- ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Will our egos rule over us, or will we master them?---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 ★

This one is going to be a little more spiritual than perhaps you might be used to from me.---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 Third Man by Graham Greene---Exploring Graham Greene’s postwar classic, The Third Man, Jesan Sorrells and Ryan J. Stout unravel the psychology of unreliable narrators, leadership in times of nihilism, and the timeless challenge of ethical decision-making amid a world of grifters and cons. They dive into Greene’s cinematic writing style, his nuanced character portrayals, and how postwar Vienna mirrors our own era of skepticism and manipulation. The conversation draws out practical leadership lessons—particularly the need for sincerity and humility—in a landscape shaped by both history and human nature.Book Title: The Third ManAuthor: Graham GreeneGuests: Jesan Sorrells (host), Ryan J. Stout (guest).---Time-Stamped Overview---00:00 "The Myth of Modern Nihilism."07:55 Graham Greene's Mastery of Characterization.12:38 "Relatable Characters and the Appeal of Dark Humor."20:30 "Graham Greene's Cinematic Legacy."24:03 "Post-War Struggles and Black Markets."31:58 Post-War Deals, Distrust, and Vienna.34:01 "Vienna's Loss and Legacy in The Third Man."39:21 "Friendship, Loneliness, and Keen Observation."48:00 "Observations, Language, and Hidden Motives."54:59 "AI Scams: Bots and Deception."59:01 "Children, Leadership, Ethics, and Modern Challenges."01:04:17 "Making Others Feel Heard & Valued."01:06:28 "Critiquing the 'Citizen of the World' Ideal."01:12:01 "Finding Meaningful and Spiritual Connections."01:18:18 "Harry Lime’s Iconic Ferris Wheel Scene."01:26:27 "Recognizing Transformation Through Self-Love."01:29:33 "The Importance of Open-Minded Humility."01:37:47 "Moral Choices, Lost Knowledge, and Invention."01:42:29 Defending Free Speech and Objective Truth.01:45:51 "Film Versions and Orson Welles Radio."---Opening 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!--- ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Leading in absurd times requires a commitment to objective truth.---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 ★

Oil! by Upton Sinclair ---Exploring the first 100 pages of Oil! by Upton Sinclair, Jesan Sorrells and Tom Libby dive into the gritty realities of entrepreneurship, the evolving concept of work-life balance, and how leadership demands both killer instinct and humility. They draw parallels between entrepreneurship and film direction, critique society’s shifting attitudes toward work and success, and dissect how true leaders mentor others amidst competitive challenges. Hear lively debates on generational expectations, lessons from pop culture, and the importance of intent and teachability on the entrepreneurial journey.Book: Oil! Author: Upton SinclairGuests: Jesan Sorrells (host), Tom Libby (co-host)---Time Stamped Overview---00:00 Welcome and Introduction - Oil! by Upton Sinclair.10:21 "There Will Be Blood Overview."13:12 "Upton Sinclair's Influence on There Will Be Blood."20:17 Startup Founder as Visionary Director.24:26 "Track Record Drives Investment."30:28 Rethinking Work-Life Balance.33:28 Work-Life Balance and Societal Evolution.38:57 "Rethinking Work and Its Role."44:48 Defining Human Nature and Oil Exploration.53:36 "Success Requires Sustained Effort."58:04 "Confronting Uncertainty with Resilience."01:03:00 "Embracing Uncertainty Through Learning."01:09:11 Entrepreneurship: Ten Years to be an 'Overnight' Success.01:12:26 "Defining Legacy: Provider or Visionary?"01:19:04 "Evolution of NBA Eras."01:26:18 "Art School: Talent, Drive, and Killer Instinct."01:31:09 "Fostering Competitive Spirit in Youth."01:33:54 The Role of Social Media in Opportunity.01:43:04 Humbling Arrogance Through Jiu-Jitsu.01:48:11 "Elevating Others Through Leadership."01:53:12 Staying on the Leadership Path with Oil! by Upton Sinclair.---Opening 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!--- ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

God, save us from the tender mercies of the social reformer.---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 ★

Stomping the Blues by Albert L. Murray---Exploring Albert Murray’s landmark book, Stomping the Blues, Jesan Sorrells and Tom Libby unpack the true roots of jazz and blues as uniquely American art forms. The hosts break down how Murray distinguishes the blues idiom from jazz, the importance of improvisation in both music and leadership, and why understanding America’s cultural “soundtrack” is vital for restoring meaning and moral direction in turbulent times.Book Title: Stomping the BluesAuthor: Albert MurrayGuest Names: Jesan Sorrells (Host), Tom Libby (Guest Host)---Time Stamped Overview---00:00 "Elements of Blues Composition."07:35 "Albert Murray's Nuanced Legacy."15:54 "Blues: An Expression of Duality."19:37 "Blues: Music’s Deep Cultural Impact."23:24 Unexpected Pathways to Country Music.29:43 "Discovering Quality Writing."34:40 "Beatles, Rebellion, and Influence."40:10 "Blues: An American Synthesis."46:39 "Hearing vs. Listening to Music."49:32 "Globalization, Rugby, and Hockey."54:28 "Data Overload and Decision-Making."01:02:47 "Blues, Dance, and Sacred Tensions."01:05:20 "Blues, Church, and Cultural Tensions."01:10:31 "Temptations Shaped by the Internet."01:19:05 "Stop Fighting, Start Riffing."01:21:37 "Experience Over Technology in Life."---Opening 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! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Leaders, we begin rebuilding Chesterton's Fence by restoring the fences in ourselves. ---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 Conflict of Visions: The Hidden Origins of Ideological Conflict by Thomas Sowell---Exploring Thomas Sowell’s A Conflict of Visions, Jesan Sorrells and Ryan J Stout break down the enduring clash between constrained and unconstrained worldviews at the root of ideological and political strife. They discuss how these visions shape society’s approach to justice, leadership, and individual responsibility, and examine practical impacts in everything from education to personal development. The episode emphasizes why understanding these competing frameworks is essential for today’s leaders and citizens striving for meaningful resolution.Book title: A Conflict of Visions: Ideological Origins of Political StruggleAuthor: Thomas SowellGuests: Jesan Sorrells (host), Ryan J Stout (guest)Top talking points:The foundational divide between constrained and unconstrained worldviewsHow visions shape leadership, justice, and social policiesPractical implications for personal growth, conflict resolution, and societal leadership---Time Stamped Overview---00:00 "Leadership Lessons: Root Causes."13:11 "Two Competing World Visions."21:47 "Unlikely Paths and Perspectives."37:33 Unconstrained vs. Constrained Visions.49:16 "Job Offer Rejection and Reflection."58:29 "Pendulum Shift and Constrained Vision."01:05:13 "Accountability When Provoking Authority."01:22:04 "Encouraging Constraint and Education."01:32:07 "Constrained Vision and Self-Awareness."01:37:37 "Gen X: Leaders of Restoration."01:49:19 "Understanding Division and Perception."01:58:16 "Active Participation and Leadership."---Opening 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! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Leaders, you might be listening to it, but can you hear it?---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 ★

Leaders, two visions of human nature and human institutions have been locked in conflict since the time of Cain and Abel. ---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 End of Race Politics: Arguments for a Colorblind America by Coleman Hughes ---Exploring Coleman Hughes’s new book, The End of Race Politics: Arguments for a Colorblind America, Jesan Sorrells and Dorollo Nixon, Jr. examine how generational shifts challenge old narratives around race and victimhood. They discuss the historical roots of colorblindness, the rise of neo-racism in elite institutions, and practical solutions for leaders navigating race politics in 21st-century America. The episode tackles nuanced distinctions between race and ethnicity, confronts ideological shifts, and proposes actionable ideas for a united future.Book Title: The End of Race Politics: Arguments for a Colorblind AmericaAuthor: Coleman HughesGuests: Jesan Sorrells and Dorollo Nixon, Jr.---Time Stamped Overview---00:00 "Leadership Lessons: Exploring Race & Identity"18:01 "What Will You Do Next?"21:48 "Race: Meaning, History, and Impact"41:05 "Attending a Preschool Party."44:28 "Critique of Corporate Cultural Messaging."59:53 "Freedom, Identity, and Worldview Shift."01:04:23 "Dorollo's Deep Passion for Genealogy."01:22:03 "Neo-Racism and Elite Institutions."01:25:23 "Challenging Narratives: Neoracism and Truth."01:41:19 "Reevaluating Tenure and Academic Roles."01:51:35 "America's Crossroads: Racism and Reform."01:57:51 "Redefining African American Identity in the 21st Century."---Opening 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!--- ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Malcolm X Speaks: Selected Speeches and Statements. George Breitman, ed. w/Dorollo Nixon & Jesan Sorrells---Exploring “Malcolm X Speaks” by Malcolm X, Jesan Sorrells, and Dorollo Nixon, Jr. examine the fiery rhetoric, legacy, and leadership lessons of Malcolm X in the context of Black History Month. They break down the revolutionary’s stance on political action versus violence, his critique of the American political system, and the tension between moral authority rooted in religion versus contemporary movements. The episode also traces the impact of Malcolm X's speeches on modern Black political thought, the fragmentation of Black culture, and the challenge of finding purpose after revolution.Book: Malcolm X Speaks: Selected Speeches and Statements. Author: Malcolm X (edited by George Breitman).Guests: Jesan Sorrells, Dorollo Nixon, Jr.---Time Stamped Overview---00:00 Welcome and Introduction - Discussion of Malcolm X's Speeches and Statements with Dorollo Nixon.02:00 "Black Revolution" by Malcolm X.06:30 The Literary Life of Malcolm X.08:43 Malcolm X's Impact on Leadership Culture.14:52 The Split in Black American Culture We All Live With.16:19 Separatist Movements in the United States of America.24:27 "The Ballot or the Bullet" by Malcolm X.30:23 Ballots, Bullets, and Black Lives Mattering: 60 Years on from Victory.35:55 Lack of Moral Force in Post-Modern Leadership.39:06 Heading to a Ukrainian War Rally.42:59 Leadership Gains Moral Authority from True Religion not from the Media.53:12 From Jerry Maguire to The Wire: It's Hard to "Sell" Revolution to Post-Modern Black Americans.55:34 "It is a Long Way from Heaven to Here." - Bubs, The Wire.01:04:04 Larry Bird and the 1988 NBA 3-Point Shootout.01:08:00 Malcolm X's Transformation with Orthodox Islam.01:12:55 "Mrs. Fani Lou Hamer" by Malcolm X.01:16:42 The Invisible Man Must Exit the Basement to Become Malcolm X.01:25:06 Leaders Change Requires Sacrifice.01:30:12 Leaders: Learn and Apply Wisdom from the Words of Malcolm X.01:33:03 Leadership Lessons from Malcolm X's Life and Work.01:39:53 Islam and House of Peace vs. House of War.01:42:38 Staying on the Leadership Path with Malcolm X's Speeches and Statements.---Opening 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!--- ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Leaders, it’s time to articulate a vision for black Americans, here at the end of the Fourth Turning. ---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 ★

RE-BROADCAST - The Omni-Americans by Albert L. Murray w/Tom Libby & Jesan Sorrells ---Exploring Albert Murray’s The Omni Americans, hosts Jesan Sorrells and Tom Libby unpack what it means to be “American” through the lens of race, culture, and music, and how these lessons inform modern leadership. They discuss the tension and synthesis inherent in America’s multicultural identity, the unique challenges of passing wisdom between generations, and the leadership insights found in Murray’s reflections on resilience, authenticity, and improvisation. The episode highlights Murray’s influence as a critic of blues and jazz, his lived wisdom across eras of American history, and practical takeaways for leaders in today’s diverse landscape.Book: The Omni Americans Author: Albert MurrayHosts: Jesan Sorrells, Tom Libby---Time Stamped Overview---00:00 Insightful African-American Narrative08:55 "Generational Ethnic Awakenings in America"16:49 Critique of Moynihan Report Impacts19:14 White Perceptions of Black Defiance27:41 Unconditional Embrace Beyond Color30:18 Talent Overcomes Boundaries37:56 Debating Ancestry and Identity Perception43:53 "Harriet Tubman's Heroic Legacy"47:07 "American Identity in Political Shifts"51:17 "Debating America's Global Role"58:40 Bipartisan Leadership Critique01:04:01 Leadership and Workplace Culture Dynamics01:08:30 Principles Over Profit in Business01:16:32 "It Don’t Mean a Thing"01:18:51 "The Blues: Resilience and Improvisation"01:25:22 Generational Wisdom Requires Compromise01:31:05 "Defining Reality Through Language"01:38:30 Preserving Wisdom Through Technology01:39:45 "Discover Albert Murray Online"---Opening and closing themes 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!--- ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Leaders, our national critical thinking fails us around issues of race.---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 ★

Mash Up Episode ft. Leadership Models w/John Hill---Examining themes from 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership by Jesan Sorrells, Jesan Sorrells and guest co-host John Hill discuss the critical role of vision in effective leadership, exploring the difference between constrained and unconstrained approaches. They break down the impact of post-pandemic changes on organizational models, the importance of alignment between leaders and teams, and why literature—rather than just business books—provides valuable lessons for developing leadership frameworks. The episode also covers practical methods for moving from vision to actionable models using the “3 Cs” methodology (clarity, candor, courage), and shares recommended works of fiction and philosophy for leaders seeking new perspectives.Book: 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional LeadershipAuthor: Jesan SorrellsHosts: Jesan Sorrells (host), John Hill, aka Small Mountain.---Time Stamped Overview---00:00 "Leadership, Legacy, and Modern Challenges"09:51 Leadership Misalignment and Sales Challenges16:04 Understanding Others' Values at Work17:24 "Meaningful Sales and Success Strategies"27:51 "Shifting Perspectives and Accountability"30:15 "Creating Space for Open Dialogue"38:52 "3Cs Methodology for Effective Leadership"41:06 "Candor and Courage in Leadership"45:22 "Leadership Models in Chaos"53:42 "Blind Devotion and Growth"57:34 "Enlightenment's Legacy and Limits"01:02:50 "Assumptions About Religious Knowledge"01:07:11 "War, Faith, and Cultural Disjunction"01:17:14 "Change, Reading, and Growth"01:22:47 "Embracing the Past in Modernity"01:27:20 "Gurus, Algorithms, and Autopilot"01:31:15 "Literature & Leadership Mashups"01:34:57 "Leadership Starts with You"---Opening and closing themes 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!--- ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★