Athenaeum Book Club

In this episode of The Athenaeum Book Club, host Jeremy Ryan Slate is joined by Auron MacIntyre to explore Niccolò Machiavelli’s The Prince, one of history’s most influential, and misunderstood, works on power. Together they examine the turbulent world of Renaissance Italy, Machiavelli’s firsthand experience with politics, and his famous ideas about fear, fortune, virtue, and leadership. They also explore Machiavelli’s fascination with Cesare Borgia, whom he personally observed during his dramatic rise to power. Is The Prince a cynical handbook for rulers, or an honest examination of politics as it actually works? A conversation about power, leadership, and human nature.

In this episode of The Athenaeum Book Club, host Jeremy Ryan Slate is joined by Dr. Alex Petkas for an exploration of Homer’s The Odyssey, one of the foundational works of Western literature. Together they journey through Odysseus’ epic voyage home, examining the poem’s timeless themes of courage, perseverance, identity, and the longing for home. Dr. Petkas provides insight into Homer’s world, the oral tradition that preserved the epic, and the enduring wisdom behind one of history’s greatest stories. A compelling conversation on heroism, human nature, and why The Odyssey continues to captivate readers nearly three thousand years after it was composed.

In this episode of The Athenaeum Book Club, host Jeremy Ryan Slate is joined by Dr. Joshua Phillips for a thoughtful exploration of Ernest Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea. Together they examine Hemingway’s timeless story of Santiago, an aging fisherman whose struggle with a great marlin becomes a profound meditation on perseverance, dignity, and the meaning of true success. Dr. Phillips unpacks Hemingway’s understated prose, rich symbolism, and enduring philosophy, revealing why this Pulitzer Prize-winning novella continues to inspire readers around the world. A compelling conversation on resilience, purpose, and the quiet strength of the human spirit.

In this episode of The Athenaeum Book Club, host Jeremy Ryan Slate is joined by Dr. Jessica Hooten Wilson for a deep discussion of Fyodor Dostoevsky’s The Brothers Karamazov, one of the greatest novels ever written. Together they explore the book’s profound questions about faith, doubt, freedom, suffering, and the search for truth. From the unforgettable parable of the Grand Inquisitor to the complex relationships between the Karamazov brothers, Dr. Wilson reveals why Dostoevsky’s masterpiece remains as relevant today as when it was first published. A rich conversation on morality, human nature, and the enduring struggle between belief and skepticism.

In this episode of The Athenaeum Book Club, host Jeremy Ryan Slate sits down with author Johann Kurtz to discuss his book, Leaving a Legacy. Together they explore what it means to build a life that matters, examining themes of purpose, responsibility, family, leadership, and the impact we leave on future generations. Kurtz shares the experiences and ideas that inspired the book, offering practical wisdom on living with intention in an age often focused on short-term success and personal achievement. This conversation challenges listeners to think beyond accomplishment and consider the deeper question: what kind of legacy are we creating every day?