Athenaeum Book Club

The Athenaeum Book Club is a podcast for curious minds who love history, big ideas, and the stories that shaped our world. Hosted by Jeremy Ryan Slate, the show features engaging conversations with historians, authors, and thinkers about classic books and pivotal moments—from ancient epics and medieval chronicles to the rise and fall of civilizations.Each episode brings timeless ideas to life, connecting the past to the present through storytelling, clear explanation, and lively discussion. Whether you’re a lifelong reader or just starting to explore history’s greatest works.

Athenaeum Book Club is a society podcast hosted by Athaenum Book Club, with 18 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.

Athaenum Book Club hosts Athenaeum Book Club, a society show with 18 episodes published.

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  Episode #18

  Alex Petkas - The Odyssey

  Aug 6, 20261h 2m

  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.

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  Episode #19

  Dr. Joshua Phillips - The Old Man and the Sea

  Jul 24, 202656 min

  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.

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  Episode #16

  Dr. Jessica Hooten Wilson - The Brothers Karamazov

  Jul 24, 202644 min

  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.

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  Episode #14

  Johan Kurtz - Leaving a Legacy

  Jun 23, 202645 min

  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?

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  Episode #15

  Liza Libes - Crime and Punishment

  Jun 23, 202655 min

  In this episode of The Athenaeum Book Club , host Jeremy Ryan Slate is joined by Liza Libes for a deep exploration of Fyodor Dostoevsky’s Crime and Punishment . Together they examine the psychological, philosophical, and spiritual dimensions of one of literature’s greatest novels, following the tortured journey of Rodion Raskolnikov as he wrestles with guilt, morality, and redemption. Libes unpacks Dostoevsky’s critique of radical individualism and his profound understanding of the human soul, revealing why the novel remains as relevant today as when it was first published. A compelling conversation on conscience, suffering, justice, and what it truly means to be human.

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