Do This First (Daily Motivational Podcast)

In Shakespeare's works, particularly his plays and sonnets, jealousy is predominantly portrayed as a destructive and negative emotion that leads to tragic consequences as we highlighted yesterday. Rather than highlighting jealousy as good or beneficial, Shakespeare often explores the detrimental effects of jealousy on individuals and relationships. There are key triggers that can spur an undesirab...

Othello" serves as a powerful example of how jealousy can have devastating consequences. Othello’s emotional turmoil transforms him from a rational and noble leader into a man consumed by irrational suspicions and rage. His emotions cloud his judgment, leading him down a path of destruction. The tragedy unlocks several key lessons on misplaced trust, insecurities, cultivating awareness and emotion...

"Macbeth" is a tragedy by William Shakespeare that tells the story of a Scottish general named Macbeth who receives a prophecy from three witches that he will one day become King of Scotland. Encouraged by his ambitious wife, Lady Macbeth, he is driven to commit regicide to seize the throne.  In this podcast episode, we'll take a closer look at the moral dilemmas in the play, including the de...

"Hamlet" is a tragedy written between 1599 and 1601. The play follows Prince Hamlet who seeks to avenge his father's death by his uncle Claudius, who has married Hamlet's mother Gertrude and has become the King of Denmark. Hamlet’s enduring relevance is without question. It is a timeless work that continues to bestow us with worthy, and relevant life lessons. In "Hamlet," the themes specifically o...

Shakespeare is considered one of the greatest literary figures in history. His works, consisting of approximately 38 plays, 154 sonnets, and several poems, continue to be studied, performed, and celebrated worldwide. His impact on literature, language, and culture is immeasurable, and he is revered for his profound insights into human nature, timeless themes, and unparalleled mastery of the Englis...

Dante's iconic Divine Comedy extolls the wisdom in embodying virtues, and fulfilling one's purpose within the grand scheme of creation. Doing what you were born to do is powerful. I’ve always felt that we are all pieces of a puzzle. When we all do what we were put on earth to do, the pieces click and the puzzle is completed. From a purely scientific and research-backed perspective, Dante's asserti...

Lord Byron was one of the most significant figures in English literature. His contributions to poetry, his larger-than-life persona, and his continued relevance as a cultural icon have cemented his place in literary history counting Frankenstein's Mary Shelly as one of his most devoted fans and friends. His open defiance of social norms and lifestyle contributed to his reputation as a rebellious a...

Emily Dickinson was one of the most influential poets of the 19th century, though relatively unknown during her lifetime. A pioneer in modern poetry, her works explored heavy themes like isolation, the search for one's identity, and the quest for a sense of belonging in the world. In this podcast episode, we'll take a closer look at the themes of belonging and place in a few of her works. We'll al...

William Wordsworth (1770–1850) was a major English Romantic poet who, with Samuel Taylor Coleridge, helped to launch the Romantic Age in English literature with their joint publication, "Lyrical Ballads" in 1798. "Ode: Intimations of Immortality from Recollections of Early Childhood" is a complex and reflective poem by William Wordsworth. Written in 1802-1804, this ode explores the intense sense o...

We're continuing with our Greatest Poets Of All Time series with installment #6. In this podcast episode, we learn about Virgil, an early history Roman Poet that is heralded by T.S. Elliot and Seamus Heaney as one of the very best. Despite his limited works, his vibrant imagery and lush language offer an inspiring and compelling collection of literary treasures. Through a deep and reflective analy...

Welcome to the 5th installment of our Greatest Poets of All Time series. Today, we take a closer look at an epic English poem from early history. Beowulf is believed to be a n epic tale that was passed down by way of oral tradition throughout time. The earliest manuscript still preserved has origins dating to 10th or 11th century. Several life lessons in courage, honor and purpose are gleaned from...

Nobel awarded Irish Poet Seamus Heaney was arguably the greatest poet of the 20th century. A wizard of words, he engaged us on a sensory journey to his childhood home with breathtaking landscapes and fond recollections. After reading Mr. Heaney's exquisite masterpieces we all walked away with a little bit of the Irish in us. I really believe it is what he set out to do, and he was succeeded. In th...

Personal development like the pilgrims in "The Canterbury Tales," is a journey of renewal. We may encounter challenges, setbacks, and moments of enlightenment but ultimately it will contribute to our development, resilience, and capacity for transformation. Through the exploration of themes of renewal in Chaucer's work, we are reminded of the inherent potential for growth, change, and renewal that...

Anger and rage are complex emotions that have been with us since the beginning of existence. It can stem from various sources, according to science such as evolutionary roots and genetics. The portrayal of anger in "The Iliad" is a central theme that explores the destructive power of unchecked emotions and the impact they can have on individuals and societies. Homer explores the intensity of human...

Some of the most inspiring and reflective words in history have come from the mouth and pens of poets. From Homer to Keats and beyond, their words have impelled, confirmed and sometimes shattered preconceived notions, and thoughts on humanity. In this podcast episode, we'll explore one of John Keats' finest works "Ode on Melancholy". Considered by some to be one of his most reflective and soul sti...

Viewing the world through the lens of faith and science is an adventure in humility and objectivity. The experiences and dedication of roughly 2.4 Billion people on planet earth provide insights to compelling leadership lessons centered on the phrase "It Is Finished". Join us as we explore the compatibilities of faith and science, and glean actionable steps towards a more holistic and purposeful l...

In this podcast episode, we visit 1988. An era marked with self determination, prosperity, and high hopes for the future. It was the year of the Seoul Olympics, and an iconic slogan that permeated every fiber of culture. From three little words we glean the boundlessness of human potential when the mind, and body are ready for action. Today, we'll unpack 10 valuable personal development lessons an...

Choosing hope is a powerful decision that can provide strength and resilience during difficult times. Hope allows us to believe in the possibility of a better future, even in the face of challenges and uncertainties. By focusing on hope, we can maintain a positive outlook, cultivate motivation, and work towards our goals with determination and optimism. Through the lens of a powerful 1963 speech,...

Title: "Uncovering Frankenstein's Leadership Secrets: Lessons from a Misunderstood Monster" Description: In this podcast episode, we take a closer look at a compelling and still relevant phrase found in "Frankenstein" to uncover that holds actionable leadership lessons. Join us as we explore the misunderstood creature, and the creator's clear failings. Discover how Frankenstein's tragic story hold...

In this podcast episode, we're unpacking the leadership lessons from a motto that emerged during the French Revolution, and has since influenced various revolutions, movements and struggles. The lessons gleaned are relevant today as we continue on our personal and professional development journey. We'll explore the events and conditions that precipitated the French Revolution as well as practical...

In this podcast episode, we are taking a deep dive into the world of possibilities by embracing a Carpe Diem mindset. The phrase, coined by poet Horace in 1 BC has reemerged throughout history as a rallying cry to live life now! Today, we'll look at how the phrase was used across eras and provide six actionable ways to cultivate a carpe diem mindset.

In today's podcast episode we're unpacking a powerful phrase from Abraham Lincoln's second inaugural address that is still relevant today. It encapsulates the timbre of Lincoln's presidential leadership and his courageous commitment to post civil war unification. Join me in exploring the treasured gems of wisdom gleaned from Lincoln's stalwart integrity showcased in his second inaugural address .

We're continuing with our Voices of Valor series, words that changed the world. Julius Caesar was a controversial, yet compelling figure in ancient history. Known for his strategic military brilliance and social reforms, his declarative phrase Veni, Vidi, Vici are still referenced today. In this podcast episode, we'll take a closer look at Julius Caesar's legacy and the compelling words that succi...

In this podcast episode, we are exploring the influence of enlightenment philosopher John Locke on Founding Father Thomas Jefferson. Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness are the cornerstones of American democracy and society as we know it today, but what does it really mean? John Locke and Thomas Jefferson align on many of the principles inferred by the group of words that changed our world.

We're kicking off a new series on the most important words ever uttered throughout history. From Revolutionaries to spiritual leaders, scientists artists, leaders of nations and more. We'll uncover the powerful words that have stirred souls, galvanized support and impelled action towards a brighter future. Join me on this journey of linguistic discovery and change your life.