Rick Walker Podcast

Jack Donovan on The Way of Men, Solar Masculinity, Rituals and Writing Books

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Are men missing something by not having rituals? Jack Donovan thinks so, and he’s here to explain why.
In this episode, I sit down with author Jack Donovan to explore the role of rituals in modern society and their importance, especially for men. Donovan shares his unique perspective on how rituals serve to manifest abstract beliefs in physical form and reinforce bonds between individuals.
We dive deep into the concept of primal masculinity and Donovan’s theory of “solar masculinity,” where men act as sources of order, warmth, and light for those around them. He also discusses how modern men are turning to ancient mythologies like Norse paganism to find their cultural identity, often with unexpected and sometimes controversial consequences.
Tune in to learn how embracing rituals can change the way you see masculinity and community.
Key Takeaways 
Introduction (00:00)
Rituals and their importance (01:17)
Tribal instincts and masculinity (03:10)
American men and European mythological traditions (04:52)
Development of primal masculinity theories (08:45)
The Way of Men Book and Jack’s Legacy (14:48)
The role of rituals in creating order (33:11)
The concept of solar idealism and its archetypes (57:24)
Jack Donovan’s writing process (1:38:47)
The Influence of historical figures and mythology (1:41:32)
The importance of responsibility and identity in modern culture (1:42:24)
Additional Resources
Connect with Jack Donovan
Website: https://www.jack-donovan.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@orderoffire 
IG: https://www.instagram.com/theorderoffire/
X: https://x.com/mr_jackdonovan
Books:
📖Fire in the Dark https://amzn.to/3VhdV7H
📖A More Complete Beast https://amzn.to/4bBLKpD
📖Becoming a Barbarian https://amzn.to/4bZL0KQ
📖The Way of Men https://amzn.to/4aITiG7
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Rick Walker Podcast is a place for discussions around leadership, responsibility, and purpose. Join us each week as we break down the frameworks of becoming a world-class leader who is effective in their work and daily life.
 

Fatherhood & Flagpoles: Learning How To Take Risks

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Picture this: A young boy watching his father shimmy up a 100-foot flagpole to put food on the table. That boy was me, and those moments undoubtedly changed my life forever.
It all goes back to my childhood weekends with my father, a flagpole painter along the Texas coast. Every weekend, we would head out to paint rusted flagpoles, often under the blazing sun. But my father approached it with high standards.
He could have easily cut cornersᅳafter all, who would notice?
But he never did. He taught me that true success isn't about taking the easy route; it's about doing the job right, even when no one is watching.
You see, my dad wasn't just painting flagpoles. He was teaching me the most important lesson about success I've ever learned - one that's helped me build multiple successful businesses and mentor countless entrepreneurs.
I will break down exactly how my dad's daring flagpole work translated into a success principle that's applicable to ANY field or industry.
This isn't your typical "work hard and follow your dreams" advice. It's a counterintuitive approach that might just change the way you think about risk, quality, and what it truly means to be successful.
Tune in to this week's episode to hear more about flagpoles, risk-taking, and my dad - a man who taught me more about entrepreneurship and integrity than any business school ever could.
Key Takeaways 
Introduction (00:00)
Lessons from painting flagpoles (00:35)
Dad's entrepreneurial spirit (01:21)
The principles of quality, integrity, and responsibility (02:40)
Mentorship beyond immediate circle (07:10)
Risk-taking and growth (09:42)
The value of perseverance (11:36)
Final thoughts (12:36)
Additional Resources
Contact Info: Website/Booking: https://www.rickwalker.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RickWalkerTX
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rickwalkertx/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rickwalkertx
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Rick Walker Podcast is a place for discussions around leadership, responsibility, and purpose. Join us each week as we break down the frameworks of becoming a world-class leader who is effective in their work and daily life.

What Modern Thinkers Get Wrong About God w/ Bishop Maximus Marretta

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I’ve always believed that deep down, we’re all searching for something more—a connection to something beyond the material world. But in today’s culture, that can feel impossible. 
At every turn, modern thinking tells us we can explain everything through science and logic. But that’s not enough?
This week, I interviewed Bishop Maximus Marretta. He serves as the Titular Bishop of Pelagonia of the Genuine Orthodox Church of Greece. Residing at the Hermitage of St. Ignatius in Santa Cruz Naranjo, Guatemala, he works across Latin America and Africa.
The Hermitage is a Spanish-speaking Orthodox monastery focused on stillness and contemplation, where monks grow coffee to support themselves. Bishop Maximus has a keen interest in philosophy, theology, history, and languages. He lectures and teaches classes on these subjects at St. Photios Orthodox Theological Seminary in Etna, California.
Raised in the Orthodox Christian tradition, Bishop Maximus shares how his faith offers something profoundly different from what we hear daily: an experience of God that goes beyond words and logic.
We explore the rich, mystical tradition of the Orthodox Church, the meaning of the Trinity, and how understanding God's mystery could transform your life. If you’ve ever felt something’s missing in the secular worldview, this conversation is a must-listen.
Key Takeaways 
Introduction (00:00)
Bishop Maximus' background and journey (00:31)
Cultural differences and coffee preferences (03:36)
Orthodox view of God and the Trinity (05:20)
Theological distinctions and the Filioque controversy (23:49)
The role of the Holy Spirit and the Trinity in the Christian life (36:44)
Philosophy, science, and modern thought (41:01)
Subjectivism/relativism is antithetical to religion and Christianity (58:16)
Orthodox spirituality and deification (01:20:25)
Additional Resources
Connect with Bishop Maximus Marretta
Monastery in Guatemala https://www.monasterioortodoxo.org/
Coffee Grown at Monastery https://sanignaciocoffee.com
Bishop's Maximus Seminary, where he teaches Philosophy https://spots.edu/
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Rick Walker Podcast is a place for discussions around leadership, responsibility, and purpose. Join us each week as we break down the frameworks of becoming a world-class leader who is effective in their work and daily life.

How Philosophy Can Make You a Better Thinker and Problem Solver w/ Dr. Liz Jackson

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Can deep philosophical thinking enhance your everyday life?
Dr. Liz Jackson, a leading researcher in epistemology, joins me to talk about the intricacies of her thought process, writing techniques, and lecture preparation. She shares how her methodical approach to writing and lecturing helps her stay productive and grounded and balance intellectual work with personal responsibilities.
Beyond her writing, Dr. Jackson discusses the role of curiosity in driving philosophical inquiry and how studying philosophy equips people with critical thinking skills that extend far beyond the classroom, helping them grow in all areas of life.
One of the episode's highlights is Dr. Jackson's take on the nature of belief and how it differs from faith.
She also touches on the surprising role of faith for an atheist by presenting an open-minded view of how non-believers can still engage with faith in a meaningful way.
Finally, we get into dualism, particularly the distinction between belief and credence, and why understanding both is important for navigating life's complex decisions.
Listen in to hear how philosophy isn't just for academics but has practical applications in your daily life.
Key Takeaways 
Introduction  (00:00)
Dr. Jackson’s approach to writing (01:07)
How philosophy helps develop critical thinking skills (10:12)
The process of developing and refining philosophical ideas (15:56)
The role of meandering in philosophical lectures (23:55)
Importance of curiosity in philosophical inquiry (27:08)
Philosophy as a balance of dissonance and resolution (29:53)
The fundamental role of logic in philosophical reasoning (34:51)
Exploring the nature of belief and faith (41:55)
Distinguishing between faith as attitude and action (44:43)
Motivations for atheists to explore religious faith (51:54)
Additional Resources
Connect with Dr. Liz Jackson
Website: Liz Jackson
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lizjackson111
Mini Habits: Smaller Habits, Bigger Results by Stephen Guise https://www.amazon.com/Mini-Habits-Smaller-Bigger-Results/dp/1494882272
Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World by Cal Newport https://www.amazon.com/Deep-Work-Focused-Success-Distracted/dp/1455586692
Taking Pascal's Wager: Faith, Evidence and the Abundant Life by Michael Rota https://www.amazon.com/Taking-Pascals-Wager-Evidence-Abundant/dp/0830851364
The Will to Believe and Other Essays in Popular Philosophy by William James https://www.gutenberg.org/files/26659/26659-h/26659-h.htm
Books by Simone Weil https://www.amazon.com/stores/Simone-Weil/author/B00P63M96Y
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Rick Walker Podcast is a place for discussions around leadership, responsibility, and purpose. Join us each week as we break down the frameworks of becoming a world-class leader who is effective in their work and daily life.
 

Paul VanderKlay on Faith, Leadership, and the Meaning Crisis

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Are you seeking meaning in a world that feels increasingly chaotic? In this episode, Rick Walker sits down with pastor and thinker Paul VanderKlay to explore how traditional religions like Christianity are still relevant in addressing today’s existential crises.
Paul shares fascinating insights on John Vervaeke's "meaning crisis" and how figures like Jordan Peterson have reignited a conversation about spirituality in the modern age.
Paul explains how his long-running discussions with philosopher John Vervaeke have shaped his understanding of the spiritual void in contemporary life.
He also discusses how Christianity's influence stretches across cultures, with surprising parallels in Eastern religions like Buddhism.
Paul and Rick also get into the meaning of leadership through the lens of figures like Alexander the Great and Jesus Christ.
If you’ve ever wondered how faith can play a role in solving today's big questions, this episode is for you. Don’t miss Paul’s take on how modern society can rediscover its spiritual roots.
Key Takeaways 
Introduction and Background (00:00)
Vervaeke's  'meaning crisis' concept and religion (00:59)
Alexander the Great and Christian themes (17:26)
Christianity and cultural dynamics (41:52)
Christian identity and public witness (48:34)
Christian Reformed Church history and challenges (53:15)
Concluding thoughts on Christian living (01:03:08) 
Additional Resources
Connect with Paul VanderKlay
Twitter: twitter.com/PaulVanderKlay
Living Stones CRC on Facebook: facebook.com/LSCRC
Living Stones CRC on YouTube: @livingstoneschristianrefor6073
Patreon: patreon.com/paulvanderklay
Website: Leadingchurch.com and paulvanderklay.me
Audio Only Podcast: paulvanderklay.podbean.com
Audio Only ITunes Podcast: itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/paul-vanderklays-podcast/id1394314333
Substack: paulvanderklay.substack.com
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Rick Walker Podcast is a place for discussions around leadership, responsibility, and purpose. Join us each week as we break down the frameworks of becoming a world-class leader who is effective in their work and daily life.

Metamodernism Explained: A Solution to our Divided World w/ Brendan Graham Dempsey

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Join Rick as he talks with Brendan Graham Dempsey, a writer, poet, and philosopher, about how metamodernism might hold the answers to navigating the complexities of our time.
Brendan is the director of the Sky Meadow Institute and the author of multiple books on metamodern spirituality. His work seeks to integrate the best aspects of these eras while moving beyond their pitfalls.
Brendan provides a detailed walkthrough of the evolution of cultural paradigms, moving from pre-modern religious frameworks to the rise of science and rationality in modernity and, eventually, the skepticism and relativism of postmodernism.
Brendan argues that metamodernism is a synthesis of these previous eras, seeking to incorporate the insights of each while avoiding their excesses.
The discussion also covers Brendan's personal journey from a Christian upbringing to academic study and eventual philosophical exploration in the arts, theology, and metamodern spirituality.
He touches on the role of art, meaning, and morality in shaping our understanding of the world today, using examples from contemporary culture to illustrate how metamodernism navigates the tension between sincerity and irony.
Don't miss this fascinating conversation that rethinks where we've been and where we might be heading.
Key Takeaways 
Brendan Graham Dempsey's background and journey (00:00)
Brendan's artistic journey and influences (01:32)
Philosophy of negative space in art and writing (06:59)
Brendan's musical preferences and writing process (09:44)
Historical overview of cultural epochs (13:44)
Modernity and its critiques (21:16)
Post-modernity and its implications (43:45)
Transition to meta-modernity (56:19)
Values and morality in meta-modernity (1:10:48)
Brendan’s work at Sky Meadow Institute and farming (01:35:22) 
Additional Resources
Connect with Brendan Graham Dempsey
Brendan's Website: https://www.brendangrahamdempsey.com/
Metamodern Spirituality Series: https://www.brendangrahamdempsey.com/metamodern-spirituality-series
Brendan's books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Brendan-Graham-Dempsey/author/B07NC16F9R
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Rick Walker Podcast is a place for discussions around leadership, responsibility, and purpose. Join us each week as we break down the frameworks of becoming a world-class leader who is effective in their work and daily life.

Progressivism or Puritanism? Noah Rothman’s Take on Today’s Politics

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This week's episode guest needs little to no introduction. Noah Rothman is a talented writer and editor whom many of you might remember from his time as an MSNBC commentator. He is currently a senior writer at National Review.
Noah is the author of two thought-provoking books, including his latest, The Rise of the New Puritans.
We kick things off by exploring Noah's writing process. He shares how he manages to pump out multiple articles in a day and the caffeine-fueled mornings that kick-start his creativity. He reveals the challenges of editing, the importance of research, and how to find that perfect idea that resonates with readers.
Aside from his writing process, we also talk about the cultural shifts that he believes are stifling our freedom to enjoy life, which he refers to as the "puritanization" of society. He believes we need to push back against the progressive movements that limit our fun and enjoyment.
Noah and I touch on the competitive nature of publishing and the unique insights that come from synthesizing various ideas into a cohesive narrative.
If you're a writer, thinker, or just someone who loves a good conversation about culture and creativity, this episode is for you. Tune in and discover how to harness your ideas and make them matter!
Key Takeaways 
Introduction (00:00)
Noah Rothman's background and career (00:31)
Noah’s education and early career (18:11)
Career progression in political writing (26:51)
The Rise of the New Puritans (37:10)
Deep analysis of the progressive movement (46:13)
Progressive ideology and hypersensitivity (59:48)
Noah’s personal insights and recommendations (01:11:09) 
Additional Resources
Connect with Noah Rothman
X/Twitter: https://x.com/NoahCRothman
Amazon Bookstore: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Noah-Rothman/author/B07NL6YJHZ
National Review Articles: https://www.nationalreview.com/author/noah-rothman/
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Other mentions:
Books:
https://www.amazon.com/Fathers-Sons-Oxford-Worlds-Classics/dp/019953604X
https://www.amazon.com/Modern-Times-Paul-Johnson-audiobook/dp/B000LC4API/
Podcasts:
https://www.commentary.org/category/podcast/
https://thedispatch.com/podcast/remnant/
https://reason.com/podcasts/the-reason-roundtable/
https://www.nationalreview.com/podcasts/the-charles-c-w-cooke-podcast/
https://thedispatch.com/podcast/dispatch-podcast/
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ukraine-the-latest/id1612424182
https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0d0mj5v
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-comedy-cellar-live-from-the-table/id1092965609
Ron & Fez Show https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLAtxWiJjc0k2r4rTKl92OuVoa2yvNm-Dv
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Rick Walker Podcast is a place for discussions around leadership, responsibility and purpose. Join us each week as we break down the frameworks of becoming a world-class leader who is effective in their work and daily life.
 
 

Dr. Robert Glover Reveals The Cure for "NICE GUY" Syndrome

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You've been the "nice guy" - always accommodating, always seeking approval, but not getting what you want in life. 
Deep down, you know something’s missing. It’s not that you aren’t good enough; it’s that you’re playing the wrong game.
I am joined by Dr. Robert Glover, author of "No More Mr. Nice Guy," who shares his story from being a self-identified nice guy to helping thousands of men break free from the toxic cycle of seeking approval.
Dr. Glover reveals the deep-seated issues that drive nice guys to prioritize being liked over being authentic and how this ultimately leads to unfulfillment.
We explore the missing element of masculine initiation in modern society, the paradox of seeking approval, and the path to personal mastery and authenticity.
Tune in to discover why authenticity, not approval, is the key to success and fulfillment. Don't miss out on this eye-opening conversation that could change your life.
Don’t wait another day being stuck in the nice guy trap. Click here to listen and start your journey toward authenticity. 
Key Takeaways 
Introduction (00:00)
What is a "Nice Guy," and what's wrong with him? (01:49)
The roots of toxic shame in early childhood (03:35)
Why nice guys hide their true thoughts, feelings, and desires (10:35)
The consequences of not having masculine initiation (22:17)
The importance of having a quality mentor or coach (27:01)
Overcoming fear and taking risks (37:48)
Keys to success with women (48:33)
Understanding love and relationships (57:40)
Navigating long-term relationships (1:05:50)
Self-improvement and personal growth (1:15:39)
Additional Resources
Connect with Dr. Robert Glover
Website: https://www.drglover.com/
Amazon Bookstore: https://www.amazon.com/No-More-Mr-Nice-Guy/dp/0762415339
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Rick Walker Podcast is a place for discussions around leadership, responsibility and purpose. Join us each week as we break down the frameworks of becoming a world-class leader who is effective in their work and daily life.

How Dr. Louis A Markos Synthesizes Knowledge into Writing

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In this episode, Rick sits down with Dr. Louis A Markos, a distinguished professor of English and scholar at Houston Christian University who has authored numerous books on literature, philosophy, and theology.
Dr. Markos takes us behind the scenes of his writing process, sharing how he breaks down monumental projects into manageable pieces and rewards himself along the way.
He says that true inspiration isn’t about waiting for a lightning bolt from the blue. It’s about filling your mind with knowledge and experiences, letting the Holy Spirit bring them together in a brilliant flash of insight.
He stresses how inspiration is not something that appears out of nowhere but is the result of synthesizing a vast amount of knowledge and experiences.
We also explore how Plato's theory of forms and biblical theology intersect in modern thought. Dr. Markos also explains the importance of visual imagery in education and how it can lead to those "aha" moments that make learning so fulfilling.
Tune in to explore the connections between ancient philosophy, modern creativity, and the power of intellectual synthesis. 
Key Takeaways 
Introduction (00:00)
Dr. Markos's writing process (01:03)
The concept of inspiration and creativity (07:59)
Plato's theory of forms and its relevance to Christianity (14:30)
The Great Divorce by CS Lewis (22:34) 
Role of virtue in classical philosophy and modern life (24:21)
The concept of truth in various cultures and religions (41:25)
The free market only works with virtuous people (53:43)
Explaining the opposition to Trump (01:02:06)
How to contact Dr. Markos and also get his books (01:42:16)
Additional Resources
Connect with Dr. Louis A Markos
Phone/email: https://hc.edu/contact/louis-markos/
Amazon Bookstore: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Louis-Markos/author/B001JSBEBG
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Rick Walker Podcast is a place for discussions around leadership, responsibility and purpose. Join us each week as we break down the frameworks of becoming a world-class leader who is effective in their work and daily life.

How Nature's Patterns Shape Our Lives w/ Tomer Solomon

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What is the secret to a meaningful life? Has it been right in front of us all along, hidden in the very fabric of nature itself?
It sounds crazy, I know. But bear with me.
In this episode, I sat down with Tomer Solomon, a brilliant thinker who's cracked the code on meaning and purpose.
He takes us through his research on meaning, specifically how it arises when human actions align with the natural order. He connects concepts from computational neuroscience, philosophy, and ancient thought.
Tomer goes deep into the roles of Markov blankets in defining identity, the Bayesian brain's role in belief updating, and how these ideas tie into broader philosophical questions about truth and purpose.
We also touch on how his theory relates to both modern technological advancements and ancient philosophical frameworks, suggesting that meaning and purpose are inherent in the cosmos, not merely human constructs.
Tune in now to learn how aligning with the patterns of life will unlock a deeper sense of meaning and fulfillment.
Key Takeaways 
Introduction (00:00)
Tomer Solomon and his work on meaning (01:04)
Explanation of Bayesian brain model and Markov blankets (03:48)
Discussion on the concept of meaning and its manifestation (07:31)
Bayesian brain and the process of belief updating (10:41)
Exploration of Aristotle's four causes in relation to truth (15:16)
The role of natural and moral laws in the manifestation of meaning (19:24)
The idea of truth as invariant to time and space (26:13)
Analysis of patterns in nature and their connection to human purpose (33:26)
The role of free will and conscious action in meaning (41:28)
The interplay between cultural constructs and universal truths (46:01)
Tomer's writing and thinking process (56:23)
Additional Resources
Connect with Tomer Solomon
X/Twitter: https://x.com/tomer_solomon
Tomer's Substack: https://tomersolomon.substack.com/
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Rick Walker Podcast is a place for discussions around leadership, responsibility and purpose. Join us each week as we break down the frameworks of becoming a world-class leader who is effective in their work and daily life.