Episodes
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There are two ways to access full episodes of Paradoxically Speaking: (1) Become a paid member of Brandon's Substack (https://strongstoic.substack.com/); (2) Become a paid member of Josh's Substack (https://perennial.substack.com/).
By becoming a member of either of our Substacks, you'll gain full access to Paradoxically Speaking episodes.
Summary
The conversation explores the themes of self-reflection, the role of past experiences, the pursuit of happiness amidst suffering, the importance of character development, and the concept of surrendering to something beyond oneself. It delves into the idea that wisdom and transformation may require external influences and the acceptance of the limits of personal control.In this conversation, Josh and Brando discuss the concept of surrender and the role of uncertainty and anxiety in human life. They explore the idea that while we have the power within us to take action and move forward, there are also external forces and mysteries beyond our control. They touch on topics such as objective values, duty and obligation, and the importance of venturing into the unknown. They also discuss the interconnectedness of human beings and the shared psychology that drives us to work together towards a common goal.
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There are two ways to access full episodes of Paradoxically Speaking: (1) Become a paid member of Brandon's Substack (https://strongstoic.substack.com/); (2) Become a paid member of Josh's Substack (https://perennial.substack.com/).
By becoming a member of either of our Substacks, you'll gain full access to Paradoxically Speaking episodes.
The Hero’s Journey (Part II)
In this episode of Paradoxically Speaking, we explore the concept of adventure and calling in life. We delve into the experience of beauty, the hero's journey, and the importance of being present. The discussion also explores the themes of surrender, obedience, and the calling to a higher purpose. We discuss the radical commitment of individuals in monastic orders who dedicate their lives to serving others — the concept of strength and the importance of mental and emotional strength in pursuing one's calling.
Key Takeaways
Adventure and calling can take different forms and do not necessarily require grand gestures or physical journeys.Being present and appreciating the beauty of nature can bring a sense of calm and connection.Surrendering and submitting to a higher purpose can lead to a radical commitment to serving others.Wise elders and guidance play a crucial role in navigating life's adventures. -
Missing episodes?
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There are two ways to access full episodes of Paradoxically Speaking: (1) Become a paid member of Brandon's Substack (https://strongstoic.substack.com/); (2) Become a paid member of Josh's Substack (https://perennial.substack.com/).
By becoming a member of either of our Substacks, you'll gain full access to Paradoxically Speaking episodes.]
Summary
This conversation explores the power of myth and the resonance of stories, particularly in relation to Lord of the Rings and other epic tales. It delves into the hero's journey and the call to adventure, highlighting the importance of growth and maturity. The discussion also touches on breaking through personal limitations and the agony of spiritual growth. The concept of avoiding unpleasantness and the path to wisdom is explored, along with the role of honesty and self-awareness in personal development.The conversation concludes with a reflection on the idea of calling and the choices we make in response to the calls to adventure in our lives. This conversation explores the themes of following one's inner goodness, confronting darkness, and saying yes to life. It emphasizes the importance of trusting our initial instincts and not rationalizing our actions. The conversation also delves into finding joy in sorrow and exploring the depths of our own psychology. Ultimately, it highlights the hero's journey and the universal nature of human experiences.
Trust your initial instincts and follow your inner goodness.Confront darkness and be aware of your own actions.Say yes to life and find joy even in difficult circumstances.Explore the depths of your own psychology and confront your shadow.Recognize the universal nature of human experiences and the hero's journey.
Takeaways -
There are two ways to access full episodes of Paradoxically Speaking: (1) Become a paid member of Brandon's Substack (https://strongstoic.substack.com/); (2) Become a paid member of Josh's Substack (https://perennial.substack.com/).
By becoming a member of either of our Substacks, you'll gain full access to Paradoxically Speaking episodes.
Summary
This episode explores the themes of beauty, youth, aging, and mortality. Brandon and I discuss the novel 'The Picture of Dorian Gray' and its exploration of the consequences of eternal youth and beauty. We delve into the concept of the soul and how it is shaped by habit and character. The subjective nature of ideals and preferences, the impact of experience and changing priorities, and the significance of aging and mortality.
Difficulties in life can be seen as part of the beauty of existence.Topics often have multiple aspects and perspectives that coexist.Embracing the paradoxes and complexities of life can lead to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the world.
Takeaways -
This conversation explores the themes of transcending the self and the importance of compassion and concern for others. It delves into the influence of beliefs and perspectives on connectedness and the challenges of balancing self-care and selflessness. The case studies of Mike Tyson and Arnold Schwarzenegger highlight the transformative power of vulnerability and the journey toward selflessness.
The conversation emphasizes the need for clarity, acceptance, and honesty to navigate the complexities of selfishness and selflessness. The conversation explores the concepts of being useful and virtuous, and how they relate to personal growth and development. It emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and honest assessment of one's actions and virtues. The discussion also highlights that developing oneself and acquiring capabilities is essential for being useful to others in the future.
What is Paradoxically Speaking?
Paradoxes exist nearly everywhere — even in the area of self-improvement. In the classic On Becoming a Person, psychologist Carl Rogers wrote, “The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” When you encounter a paradox — there is potential and opportunity within the tension.
Our conversations typically explore principles and practices from many sides (which we understand may not be for everyone). For example, we are interested in human goodness (virtue) and our capacity for evil (vice). The wisdom of connection and the power of solitude. The importance of structure and the need for flexibility. Although we intentionally explore the complexities of living well — we strive to keep things practical.
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There are two ways to access full episodes of Paradoxically Speaking: (1) Become a paid member of Brandon's Substack (https://strongstoic.substack.com/); (2) Become a paid member of Josh's Substack (https://perennial.substack.com/).
By becoming a member of either of our Substacks, you'll gain full access to Paradoxically Speaking episodes.
Summary
In this episode of Paradoxically Speaking, Josh and Brandon explore the concept of love as an infinite resource and delve into the complexities and paradoxes of love. It discusses the impact of toxic relationships and the importance of self-preservation. The dark side of human nature is examined, along with the skills and nuances of love. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the journey of self-love. In this conversation, Josh and Brandon discuss the importance of effective communication and explore various aspects of communication, including barriers, active listening, non-verbal communication, and cultural differences. They emphasize the need for clear and concise communication to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts. The conversation provides valuable insights and practical tips for improving communication skills in personal and professional relationships.
Love is a complex and multifaceted concept that can be viewed from different perspectives.Toxic relationships can jeopardize one's mental and emotional well-being, and it is important to prioritize self-care.Understanding the dark side of human nature is crucial in navigating relationships and making wise decisions.Love is a skill that requires self-reflection, self-preservation, and continuous learning.The journey of self-love is essential for cultivating healthy and fulfilling relationships.
Takeaways -
In this conversation, Brandon and Joshua discuss various aspects of life and how to navigate its challenges. They explore the concept of accepting life's events and finding faith and courage in the face of difficult circumstances. They also delve into the idea of being part of something bigger and finding harmony and alignment with the mysterious and uncertain aspects of life. The conversation touches on the topic of grief and loss, highlighting the importance of finding the right perspective and tools to navigate these experiences. They also discuss the difficulty of experiencing sadness and loss fully and the potential for growth and healing. Finally, they explore the paradoxical nature of life, where both joy and sorrow can coexist.
Key Takeaways
Accepting life's events and finding faith and courage can be incredibly helpful in navigating difficult circumstances.Recognizing that we are part of something bigger and embracing the mystery and uncertainty of life can lead to a sense of harmony and alignment.Dealing with grief and loss is a challenging process, but having the right perspective and tools can help in moving forward and finding growth.Experiencing sadness and loss fully can be a difficult but necessary step in the healing process.Life is filled with paradoxes, where both joy and sorrow can coexist, and it is through embracing these contradictions that we can find a deeper understanding of life.What is Paradoxically Speaking?
There are two ways to access full episodes of Paradoxically Speaking: (1) Become a paid member of Brandon's Substack (https://strongstoic.substack.com/); (2) Become a paid member of Josh's Substack (https://perennial.substack.com/). By becoming a member of either of our Substacks, you'll gain full access to Paradoxically Speaking episodes.Paradoxes exist nearly everywhere — even in the area of self-improvement. In the classic On Becoming a Person, psychologist Carl Rogers wrote, “The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” When you encounter a paradox, remember that there is potential and opportunity within the tension. What does it mean to become who you are? What is the tension in genuinely knowing ourselves?
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Paradoxes exist nearly everywhere — even in the area of self-improvement. In the classic On Becoming a Person, psychologist Carl Rogers wrote, “The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” When you encounter a paradox, remember that there is potential and opportunity within the tension. What does it mean to become who you are? What is the tension in genuinely knowing ourselves?
There are two ways to access full episodes of Paradoxically Speaking:
(1) Become a paid member of Brandon's Substack (https://strongstoic.substack.com/); (2) Become a paid member of Josh's Substack (https://perennial.substack.com/).By becoming a member of either of our Substacks, you'll gain full access to Paradoxically Speaking episodes.
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There are two ways to access full episodes of Paradoxically Speaking: (1) Become a paid member of Brandon's Substack (https://strongstoic.substack.com/); (2) Become a paid member of Josh's Substack (https://perennial.substack.com/). By becoming a member of either of our Substacks, you'll gain full access to Paradoxically Speaking episodes.
Paradoxes exist nearly everywhere — even in the area of self-improvement. In the classic On Becoming a Person, psychologist Carl Rogers wrote, “The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” When you encounter a paradox, remember that there is potential and opportunity within the tension. What does it mean to become who you are? What is the tension in genuinely knowing ourselves?
-
There are two ways to access full episodes of Paradoxically Speaking: (1) Become a paid member of Brandon's Substack (https://strongstoic.substack.com/); (2) Become a paid member of Josh's Substack (https://perennial.substack.com/). By becoming a member of either of our Substacks, you'll gain full access to Paradoxically Speaking episodes.
Paradoxes exist nearly everywhere — even in the area of self-improvement. In the classic On Becoming a Person, psychologist Carl Rogers wrote, “The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” When you encounter a paradox, remember that there is potential and opportunity within the tension. What does it mean to become who you are? What is the tension in genuinely knowing ourselves?
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What happens when a Stoic (Brandon Tumblin from The Strong Stoic) and a Seeker (J.W. Bertolotti from Perennial Meditations) get together for casual conversations? It usually results in lots of paradoxically speaking about what it means to live a good life. Our conversations (or, you might say, ramblings and ruminations) tend to explore the complexities and nuances around living our highest good in the modern world.
Paradoxes exist nearly everywhere — even in the area of self-improvement. In the classic On Becoming a Person, psychologist Carl Rogers wrote, “The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” When you encounter a paradox, there is potential and opportunity within the tension. As the nineteenth-century Danish physicist Niels Bohr put it, “The opposite of a correct statement is a false statement. But the opposite of a profound truth may well be another profound truth.” You’ll find that most of our conversations explore principles and practices from all sides (which we understand may not be for everyone). For example, we are interested in human goodness (virtue) and our capacity for evil (vice). The wisdom of connection and the power of solitude. The importance of structure and the need for flexibility. Although we intentionally explore complex topics — we strive to keep things practical and for daily life.
***Moving forward, there are two ways to access full episodes of Paradoxically Speaking: (1) Become a paid member of Brandon's Substack (https://strongstoic.substack.com/); (2) Become a paid member of Josh's Substack (https://perennial.substack.com/). By becoming a member of either of our Substacks, you'll gain full access to Paradoxically Speaking episodes.
Brandon Tumblin is most well-known for his podcast, The Strong Stoic Podcast, which discusses philosophical ideas (solo and guest episodes). His podcast has more than 250 episodes published, so it is safe to say that he has already explored many of the topics we’ll discuss here. Brandon is also a writer, strength athlete & coach, and engineer.J.W. Bertolotti is probably best known for In Search of Wisdom, a conversational podcast interested in timeless principles and practices for everyday life. His more than 150 episodes (with leading thinkers in philosophy and theology) end with the question: What is wisdom?
Who We Are? -
In this episode, Brandon Tumblin (from The Strong Stoic) and J.W. Bertolotti (from Perennial Meditations) discuss hardships and acts for the common good.
In the conversation, Brandon and Josh discuss:
* Discerning hardships
* Memories and nostalgia
* Legacy and interdependence
* Acts for the common good and much more
You can expect two free episodes of the podcast per month. To support the show, consider becoming a paid subscriber. You’ll get occasional bonus episodes on the writing and philosophy of figures like Fyodor Dostoevsky, Seneca, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Michel de Montaigne, Leo Tolstoy, and others.
Stay Connected
* Brandon Tumblin is most well-known for his podcast, The Strong Stoic Podcast, where he discusses philosophical ideas (solo and guest episodes).
* Follow The Strong Stoic Podcast: Instagram | Twitter | Youtube
* J.W. Bertolotti is probably best known for In Search of Wisdom, a conversational podcast interested in timeless principles and practices for everyday life.
* Follow the Perennial Leader Project: Instagram | Twitter | Youtube
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paradoxicallyspeaking.substack.com/subscribe -
Attention, Awareness, & Discipline
In this episode, Brandon Tumblin (from The Strong Stoic) and J.W. Bertolotti (from Perennial Meditations) discuss attention, awareness, and discipline.
In the conversation, Brandon and Josh discuss:
* Humble beginnings; city life vs. community life
* Universal maxims
* Finding the extraordinary in the ordinary
* The mundaneness of life
* Fighting arrogance within ourselves
* And much more
Support the Show
You can expect two free episodes of the podcast per month. For the full paradoxical experience, we encourage you to consider becoming a paid subscriber. You’ll get access to upcoming bonus episodes and multi-part series on the writing and philosophy of figures like Fyodor Dostoevsky, Seneca, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Michel de Montaigne, Leo Tolstoy, and many others.
***If you’d like to become a paid member but cannot afford it. Feel free to contact us; we’ll happily provide a complimentary membership (no questions asked).
Stay Connected
* Brandon Tumblin is most well-known for his podcast, The Strong Stoic Podcast, where he discusses philosophical ideas (solo and guest episodes).
* Follow The Strong Stoic Podcast: Instagram | Twitter | Youtube
* J.W. Bertolotti is probably best known for In Search of Wisdom, a conversational podcast interested in timeless principles and practices for everyday life.
* Follow the Perennial Leader Project: Instagram | Twitter | Youtube
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paradoxicallyspeaking.substack.com/subscribe -
In this episode, Brandon Tumblin (from The Strong Stoic) and J.W. Bertolotti (from Perennial Meditations) catch up on what they're reading and watching and discuss various aspects of the art of letting go.
In the conversation, Brandon and Josh discuss: Relationships and forgiveness; Leadership and responsibility; Communication and recognition; Free will and freedom; Self-transformation, Love, and much more
Brandon Tumblin is most well-known for his podcast, The Strong Stoic Podcast, where he discusses philosophical ideas (solo and guest episodes).
J.W. Bertolotti is probably best known for In Search of Wisdom, a conversational podcast interested in timeless principles and practices for everyday life.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paradoxicallyspeaking.substack.com/subscribe -
Paradoxically Speaking is a reader-supported publication. To support our work, consider becoming a paid subscriber.
Nihilism, Extreme Ownership, Major and Minor Failures, & Creativity
In this episode, Brandon Tumblin (from The Strong Stoic) and J.W. Bertolotti (from Perennial Meditations) follow up their previous discussion. discuss Nihilism, extreme ownership, major vs. minor failures, creativity, and other topics.
Support the Show
You can expect two free episodes of the podcast per month. For the full paradoxical experience, we encourage you to consider becoming a paid subscriber. You’ll get access to upcoming bonus episodes and multi-part series on the writing and philosophy of figures like Fyodor Dostoevsky, Seneca, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Michel de Montaigne, Leo Tolstoy, and many others.
***If you’d like to become a paid member but cannot afford it. Feel free to contact us; we’ll happily provide a complimentary membership (no questions asked).
Stay Connected
* Brandon Tumblin is most well-known for his podcast, The Strong Stoic Podcast, where he discusses philosophical ideas (solo and guest episodes).
* Follow The Strong Stoic Podcast: Instagram | Twitter | Youtube
* J.W. Bertolotti is probably best known for In Search of Wisdom, a conversational podcast interested in timeless principles and practices for everyday life.
* Follow the Perennial Leader Project: Instagram | Twitter | Youtube
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paradoxicallyspeaking.substack.com/subscribe -
📩 Want more Paradoxically Speaking? Sign up for Paradoxically Speaking for Essays & Podcasts on the Art of Living: https://paradoxicallyspeaking.substack.com/subscribe.
In this episode, Brandon Tumblin (from The Strong Stoic) and J.W. Bertolotti (from Perennial Meditations) discuss being alone, human nature, Existentialism, avoiding Nihilism, the meaning of life, and other topics.
Stay Connected:
Brandon Tumblin is most well-known for his podcast, The Strong Stoic Podcast, where he discusses philosophical ideas (solo and guest episodes).
- Follow The Strong Stoic Podcast: Instagram | Twitter | Youtube
J.W. Bertolotti is probably best known for In Search of Wisdom, a conversational podcast interested in timeless principles and practices for everyday life.
- Follow the Perennial Leader Project: Instagram | Twitter | Youtube
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paradoxicallyspeaking.substack.com/subscribe -
This Too Shall Pass, Being Here Now, & Letting It Be
In this episode, Brandon Tumblin (from The Strong Stoic) and J.W. Bertolotti (from Perennial Meditations) discuss the idea that everything, pleasant or unpleasant, comes and goes, the importance of being here now (and why it’s a privilege), letting things go, and much more.
We contemplate the following questions:
* Does revenge only take away from you?
* How significant is luck and timing in life?
* How can we have patience in life (i.e. “this too shall pass”)?
* Why is it important to “let it be”?
* & much more!
Support the Show
You can expect two free episodes of the podcast per month. For the full paradoxical experience, we encourage you to consider becoming a paid subscriber. You’ll get access to upcoming bonus episodes and multi-part series on the writing and philosophy of figures like Fyodor Dostoevsky, Seneca, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Michel de Montaigne, Leo Tolstoy, and many others.
***If you’d like to become a paid member but cannot afford it. Feel free to contact us; we’ll happily provide a complimentary membership (no questions asked).
Stay Connected
* Brandon Tumblin is most well-known for his podcast, The Strong Stoic Podcast, where he discusses philosophical ideas (solo and guest episodes).
* Follow The Strong Stoic Podcast: Instagram | Twitter | Youtube
* J.W. Bertolotti is probably best known for In Search of Wisdom, a conversational podcast interested in timeless principles and practices for everyday life.
* Follow the Perennial Leader Project: Instagram | Twitter | Youtube
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paradoxicallyspeaking.substack.com/subscribe -
📩 Want more Paradoxically Speaking? Sign up for Paradoxically Speaking for Essays & Podcasts on the Art of Living: https://paradoxicallyspeaking.substack.com/subscribe.
In this episode, Brandon Tumblin (from The Strong Stoic) and J.W. Bertolotti (from Perennial Meditations) discuss the paradox of productivity. Specifically, organization, habits, relationships, dealing with challenges, and other topics.
Stay Connected:
Brandon Tumblin is most well-known for his podcast, The Strong Stoic Podcast, where he discusses philosophical ideas (solo and guest episodes).
Follow The Strong Stoic Podcast: Instagram | Twitter | Youtube
J.W. Bertolotti is probably best known for In Search of Wisdom, a conversational podcast interested in timeless principles and practices for everyday life.
Follow the Perennial Leader Project: Instagram | Twitter | Youtube
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paradoxicallyspeaking.substack.com/subscribe -
Relaxing Into Life & Death, Grieving, Memento Mori, & Vulnerability
In this episode, Brandon Tumblin (from The Strong Stoic) and J.W. Bertolotti (from Perennial Meditations) discuss grieving loved ones, the significance of rituals, the dying process, meditating on death, and relaxing into both life and death.
We contemplate the following questions:
* Are rituals important in grieving?
* Should we live each day as if it’s our last?
* Is life good to the degree that we believe it to be so?
* How can we relax into the dying process at the end of life?
* & much more!
Support the Show
You can expect two free episodes of the podcast per month. For the full paradoxical experience, we encourage you to consider becoming a paid subscriber. You’ll get access to upcoming bonus episodes and multi-part series on the writing and philosophy of figures like Fyodor Dostoevsky, Seneca, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Michel de Montaigne, Leo Tolstoy, and many others.
***If you’d like to become a paid member but cannot afford it. Feel free to contact us; we’ll happily provide a complimentary membership (no questions asked).
Stay Connected
* Brandon Tumblin is most well-known for his podcast, The Strong Stoic Podcast, where he discusses philosophical ideas (solo and guest episodes).
* Follow The Strong Stoic Podcast: Instagram | Twitter | Youtube
* J.W. Bertolotti is probably best known for In Search of Wisdom, a conversational podcast interested in timeless principles and practices for everyday life.
* Follow the Perennial Leader Project: Instagram | Twitter | Youtube
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paradoxicallyspeaking.substack.com/subscribe -
Paradoxically Speaking is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
Blending With Imperfection, Worrying Too Much, & the Hubris of Certainty
In this episode, Brandon Tumblin (from The Strong Stoic) and J.W. Bertolotti (from Perennial Meditations) discuss how to blend with the imperfections that are inherent in life, worrying too much about humanity’s biggest problems, and how certainty leads to insanity.
We ponder the following questions:
* Should we focus on global issues or local issues?
* How do we harmonize with the imperfections inherent in life?
* Can we actually make “bad'“ decisions?
* Can and should we love others despite their flaws or, perhaps, even because of them?
* & much more!
Support the Show
You can expect two free episodes of the podcast per month. For the full paradoxical experience, we encourage you to consider becoming a paid subscriber. You’ll get access to upcoming bonus episodes and multi-part series on the writing and philosophy of figures like Fyodor Dostoevsky, Seneca, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Michel de Montaigne, Leo Tolstoy, and many others.
***If you’d like to become a paid member but cannot afford it. Feel free to contact us; we’ll happily provide a complimentary membership (no questions asked).
Stay Connected
* Brandon Tumblin is most well-known for his podcast, The Strong Stoic Podcast, where he discusses philosophical ideas (solo and guest episodes).
* Follow The Strong Stoic Podcast: Instagram | Twitter | Youtube
* J.W. Bertolotti is probably best known for In Search of Wisdom, a conversational podcast interested in timeless principles and practices for everyday life.
* Follow the Perennial Leader Project: Instagram | Twitter | Youtube
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paradoxicallyspeaking.substack.com/subscribe - Show more
