The Ikarus Inspired Podcast

In this illuminating episode, I sit down with human rights lawyer, activist, and filmmaker Chuck Nduka Eze to uncover one of Nigeria’s most silenced atrocities. the Asaba Massacre of 1967, when federal troops executed more than a thousand civilians in the Eastern Delta during the Nigerian Civil War. Eze, whose own mother was among those killed, recounts the events that unfolded on October 7th, a day the people of Asaba still mourn nearly sixty years later. Drawing from his testimony before the Nigerian Human Rights Violations Investigation Commission and his forthcoming documentary on the massacre, he traces how a community once known for peace was shattered by a campaign of violence, and how the survivors have struggled for truth and recognition in the decades since. The conversation dives into the politics of denial, the psychological toll of state-sanctioned violence, and the moral weight of remembrance in a country that has never officially apologized. Eze also reflects on forgiveness, interethnic reconciliation, and the power of storytelling as resistance — showing how Asaba’s call for unity, even amid devastation, redefines what it means to belong to “one Nigeria.” From the roots of the Biafran War to the global implications of historical amnesia, this episode offers an unflinching meditation on justice, memory, and the human capacity for healing. If you’re interested in African history, transitional justice, or the struggle to confront buried truths, this conversation is both an education and an act of remembrance. #nigerianhistory #forgottenhistory #politicspodcast Details of Nduka Eze’s Documentary and other resources are here: https://asabamemorialmonument.org This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit athanasiosjcy.substack.com

In this powerful episode, I sit down with Dr. Miron Clay-Gilmore — philosopher, researcher, and postdoctoral fellow at the University of Toronto — for a deep exploration into Africana philosophy, race, and the politics of knowledge. Dr. Clay-Gilmore, the first Black philosopher to earn a PhD from the University of Edinburgh, unpacks how Western philosophy has historically excluded African and diasporic thought, and how a new wave of thinkers is working to reclaim intellectual autonomy through what he calls the “Edinburgh School of Black Thought.” Clay-Gilmore also examines the colonial roots of modern philosophy, the racialized structures embedded in knowledge systems, and how Africana philosophy challenges the Enlightenment’s conception of “the human.” He discusses how surveillance, artificial intelligence, and digital technologies continue to reproduce imperial power — and what it means to resist through independent Black institutions, media, and cultural nationalism. From the works of W.E.B. Du Bois, Frantz Fanon, and Malcolm X to modern thinkers like Tommy Curry and Norman Ajari, this conversation reimagines what philosophy can be when it centers African and diasporic experience. If you’re interested in decolonizing thought, exploring Black intellectual history, or understanding how power operates through technology and ideas, this episode offers a rare, unflinching perspective on what it means to think — and live — freely. To learn more about Dr. Clay-Gilmore, click here: https://philpeople.org/profiles/miron-clay-gilmore This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit athanasiosjcy.substack.com

In this short, reflective episode, I explore one of humanity’s most overlooked miracles — the invention of language. How did the first people decide what to call things? How could anyone create a system of words and meanings from nothing? From “stick” to “apple,” I unpack the awe-inspiring evolution of speech, naming, and communication — the foundation of everything we take for granted today. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit athanasiosjcy.substack.com

In this Sunday reflection, I share a thoughtful reminder about the importance of slowing down and taking stock of your life. From the value of mental rest to the insights gained through journaling, this short episode encourages you to pause, breathe, and appreciate everything you’ve already accomplished. A mindful start to your week. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit athanasiosjcy.substack.com

In today’s reflection, Athan shares the simple yet powerful impact of courtesy—looking someone in the eye, offering a handshake, and treating every person with respect, whether it’s a neighbor, a stranger, or a community leader. He also dives into how these small gestures can build stronger connections and why they matter in a busy, fast-paced world. Plus, a quick thought on Yankees vs. Red Sox playoff energy and what it reveals about human belief and belonging. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit athanasiosjcy.substack.com

In this short but powerful episode, we explore the value of connecting with older generations. Discover why sitting down with elders, hearing their life stories, and learning from their struggles, regrets, and triumphs can offer more wisdom than any book or course. From volunteering in senior homes to befriending community leaders, this conversation highlights the timeless benefits of listening to those who’ve lived before us. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit athanasiosjcy.substack.com

In this reflective episode, we explore the beauty of slowing down and reconnecting with nature. From star-filled skies in the Hudson Valley to cotton-candy sunsets and quiet river views, discover how stepping outside can shift perspective, ease the mind, and inspire gratitude. Tune in for a thoughtful reminder to pause, look up, and embrace the wonders that surround us every day. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit athanasiosjcy.substack.com

Start your week with motivation to stay focused, work hard, and embrace failure as proof you’re making progress. Every setback is a sign you’re in the game and one step closer to success. 907582 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit athanasiosjcy.substack.com

In this episode, the host reflects on a riveting conversation with Chuck Nduka Eze about the Asaba massacre, a tragic yet largely forgotten episode of the Nigerian Civil War that remains unacknowledged by both the international community and the government responsible. Beyond the historical discussion, he opens up about the challenges of virtual podcasting—from unreliable recording platforms to the dream of seamless global connectivity—and shares plans for the future of the show, including a new name and live call-in segments to bring more listener voices into the conversation. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit athanasiosjcy.substack.com

I unpack a strange dream where regret felt real, raising questions about stress, escape, and the fine line between dream and reality. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit athanasiosjcy.substack.com

A near-blind drive in the rain sparks reflections on faith, surrender, and the strength of asking for help when we can’t do it alone. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit athanasiosjcy.substack.com

Host Athan Yanos reflects on how instantly summoning music, images, and information online may actually dampen our imagination. Using a simple moment—humming a Michael Jackson song in the grocery store parking lot—he explores how quick access to knowledge can stifle the creative process, and why letting the mind wander is essential for building original ideas. Tune in for a thought-provoking reflection on creativity in the digital age. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit athanasiosjcy.substack.com

I reflect on Randy Houser’s song Note to Self and the wisdom hidden in its lyrics—from love and humility to faith, work, and letting go. Join the discussion on why real growth means taking responsibility, appreciating what you have, and knowing when to move on. Perfect for fans of storytelling, music-inspired reflections, and everyday life lessons. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit athanasiosjcy.substack.com

I retell a Lesotho folktale of a clever girl and a man-eating monster, revealing why real courage means knowing when to step back. A quick dose of storytelling, wisdom, and life lessons. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit athanasiosjcy.substack.com

In this episode, Athan Yanos reflects on the first day of autumn and what the season of fall symbolizes in our lives. From Kierkegaard’s philosophy on loss and renewal to the gentle transition from light into darkness, Athan explores how autumn prepares us for deeper change. Why do we embrace fall’s beauty even as it guides us toward colder, darker days? Tune in for a thoughtful meditation on seasons, symbolism, and the lessons hidden in nature’s cycles. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit athanasiosjcy.substack.com

A simple table turns into a powerful reminder of the life lessons from building furniture and building foundation in life. Our strong physical foundations are a metaphor for the strong spiritual foundations we seek to build in our life. Join me on the Athan Yanos show for a reflection on strength and spirit. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit athanasiosjcy.substack.com

The Emmys turned speeches into a charity challenge—and ended up costing kids money. Athan Yanos unpacks what this moment reveals about celebrity culture, self-importance, and why we talk more than we listen. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit athanasiosjcy.substack.com

Athan Yanos reflects on the assassination of Charlie Kirk and asks whether a movement can survive without its leader. From The View to Alexander the Great and Jesus, this episode explores how leadership shapes the life—or death—of ideas. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit athanasiosjcy.substack.com

In this episode, I reflect on Modern Family and how the sitcom’s imperfect characters reveal deeper lessons about family, resilience, and embracing life’s surprises. A short, uplifting take on finding beauty in imperfection. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit athanasiosjcy.substack.com

In today’s episode of The Athan Yanos Show, I share a strange dream where I found myself in the finals of the U.S. Open facing none other than John McEnroe—only not in his prime, but years later. The dream sparked a bigger reflection: if we glimpse our future, does free will still matter? Join me as I unpack this odd but thought-provoking moment, exploring tennis, dreams, and the timeless question of agency versus destiny—all in under five minutes. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit athanasiosjcy.substack.com