Leadership Lessons From The Great Books

 Veteran's Day Message---In Flanders' Field By John McRae--- 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 ★

Endurance: Shackleton's Incredible Voyage by Alfred Lansing w/Zac Stucki & Jesan Sorrells---Unpacking Alfred Lansing’s Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage, the conversation delves into building and sustaining heroic leadership in crisis, the enduring importance of masculine virtues and hierarchy, and why the romantic pursuit of greatness is vital for leaders today. Jesan Sorrells and Zac Stucki explore the practical lessons from Shackleton’s expedition, from team formation under duress to the necessity of virtue and vision for navigating cultural and organizational turning points in the West.Book: Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible VoyageAuthor: Alfred LansingGuests: Jesan Sorrells, Zac Stucki---Time-Stamped Overview---00:00 Western innovation and existential questions10:35 Learning by Copying Great Authors15:49 Media's Sensationalism of Tragedy18:28 Discussing virtue and pragmatism in society25:32 Shackleton's ambitious yet risky ventures31:24 Why the US attracts innovators37:35 FDR's pivotal phone call41:00 Being part of a heroic journey47:31 Eisenhower and modern bridge figures55:16 Discussing AI adoption challenges57:58 Trusting Gut Over Data in Hiring01:05:55 Modern fears and leadership values01:12:16 Book structure and journey maps01:13:21 Struggles and resilience on the ice01:22:41 Discussing martial arts and politics01:30:03 Discussing authority and likability01:34:24 Trump's surprising geopolitical strategies01:38:31 Leadership lessons from Shackleton---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. A Late Summer Wrap-Up w/Tom Libby & Jesan Sorrells.---00:00 "Leadership Lessons: Bonus Mashup"09:57 Health Decline Linked to Modern Diet15:39 "Discussing Political Violence: Charlie Kirk"17:57 University System's Impact on Leadership26:10 Turning Point's 2024 Donor Concerns28:01 Changing Cultural Engagement Dynamics37:31 "John Oliver's Bold Independence"38:05 Hollywood's Free Speech Dynamics46:35 "Laughter Keeps Us Human"52:35 FCC Chair Criticism and Kimmel Negotiation54:34 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 Analysis01:11:53 Legacy of WWI: Conflict's Lessons01:21:09 History's Dual Perspectives Needed01:24:15 Rise of Robotic Warfare01:30:07 "Rethinking Warfare and Territorial Disputes"01:32:43 Colonial Distance Fosters Cooperation01:37:47 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 Stories09:21 Discussing authorship and perspective11:16 Discussing historical narrative biases18:14 Discussing barriers for diverse authors25:28 Native ancestry and the Trail of Tears30:16 Discussion on cultural history in America33:57 Bering Strait theory and early inhabitants39:55 Cultural differences across language bases45:12 Discussing resource access disparities49:40 Spanish colonization challenges56:29 Depiction of Comanches' dominance01:05:25 Colonial land acquisition strategies01:10:27 Settlers' conflicts and government views01:12:45 Discussing Cynthia Ann Parker's capture01:20:40 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 Business07:09 Discussing legal vs. illegal immigration13:07 Discussing intelligence tests for voting in elections17:22 The peril of single-issue voting24:09 Reflecting on underlying issues28:01 Understanding customer desires in sales36:54 Military career and controversies41:28 Discussing a compelling book choice48:52 Aggressive training mindset shift53:10 Impact of WWI on Germany55:49 Comparing business to martial arts01:01:03 Comparing Patton and Rommel's leadership01:09:52 Criticism of Sales Leadership Practices01:16:21 Traits of Successful Salespeople01:17:50 Measuring true progress and success01:26:03 Drone operators and military tactics01:32:47 Discussing societal and personal cowardice01:35:23 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 PhillipsHosts: Jesan Sorrells, Richard Messing---Time-Stamped Overview:---00:00 Religious practices saving the West09:39 Post-Holocaust Jewish self-reliance11:13 Melanie Phillips' political journey20:20 Discussing The Book of Genesis and Theology22:54 Discussing idolatry and priorities31:45 Early feminism's Christian roots35:36 Jewish history and survival41:05 Debating Theological and Historical Issues44:27 Differences between Israeli and Western Jews54:31 Religious remnant idea and confidence58:00 Challenges of Religious Confidence01:06:00 Melanie's solution: Coalition proposal01:09:48 Repentance and national sins discussion01:17:09 National repentance and moral courage01:20:47 Discussing spiritual solutions to problems01:27:05 Reflections on October 7th events01:29:26 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 journey03:24 Transitioning Ranch to Charity Work06:34 Understanding conservation and its benefits11:07 Books on masculinity and fatherhood15:15 Balancing mental and physical work16:11 Discussing empathy in construction20:15 Understanding hard-headed empathy24:27 Challenges for Young Professionals28:28 Reflections on Upbringing and Family30:49 Parenting different age groups35:54 Importance of Biblical Foundations39:37 Reflections on Retirement Life43:34 Books every leader should read44:49 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 store05:36 Post-Cold War tech realities11:57 Reflecting on book rereads17:52 Influence of Gibson on tech leaders27:13 Gibson's shift from sci-fi32:45 Struggling with overwhelming concerns38:31 Sci-fi themes of immortality43:09 Themes of timeless cultural issues49:49 Tolkien's Influence on Fantasy Writers52:51 Reflecting on cyberspace concepts01:01:13 Discussing Neuromancer's Relevance Today01:02:47 Discussion on demonizing new trends01:11:43 Finding time for self-reflection01:14:47 Discussing hierarchy of meaning01:21:45 Expanding the franchise legally01:27:45 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 authors08:46 Kurt Vonnegut's literary journey12:12 High school memories and Vonnegut18:13 Publication dates and context of stories26:07 Lindsay Clancy's controversial trial27:31 Jury deadlock in Lindsey Clancy case34:20 Reflecting on Gloria Steinem's Impact42:31 Authors and technology of books47:38 Vonnegut's views on language usage52:27 Technology, communication, and culture overlap58:36 Hourglass analogy and chaotic transitions01:01:24 Impact of 2020 lockdowns01:05:56 Barnhouse effect report analysis01:16:06 Discussing global conflict and climate agendas01:19:58 American culture and equality debate01:27:48 Reflecting on personal growth01:32:19 Exploring an abandoned harbor clubhouse01:34:09 Wendell Berry and localism themes01:43:28 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 ★