Shows
Heavy Things LightlyCulture At the Crossroads with Fr. Christian Siskos of Noetic SpringFind this episode on YouTube: Fr. Christian Siskos joins John Heers at Keipi Restaurant to sit down and talk about AI, equality of men and women, tradition and the Supra. Discover more Fr. Siskos here: Fr. Christian Siskos ✒ Substack: https://johnheersftf.substack.com/ ⓧ https://x.com/johnfromftf 🍷The best dinner party you've ever experienced - Supra Dinner Society: https://supradinner.com/ 🏖️ Tailormade tours that give back: https://www.gratitude-travels.com/home 🔎 Discover the non-profit behind Heavy Things Lightly: https://first-things.org/ ✈ Become a Field Worker with...
2025-08-051h 39
Heavy Things LightlyJohn Hammond - American Orthodox Deep DiveFind this episode on YouTube: John Hammond is the author and director of 'American Orthodox' which explore the roots of Orthodox Christianity here in the U.S. John is a writer, editor, and (relatively) recent convert to Orthodoxy after a long road searching for the truth. Find out more about the film and screenings here: https://americanorthodoxfilm.com/✒ Substack: https://johnheersftf.substack.com/ ⓧ https://x.com/johnfromftf 🍷The best dinner party you've ever experienced - Supra Dinner Society: https://supradinner.com/ 🏖️ Tailormade tours that give back: https://www.gratitud...
2025-06-121h 22
Heavy Things LightlyThe Working Songwriter, Beer, and God: Joe PugFind this episode on YouTube: A singer-songwriter known for his lyrical acumen and plaintive harmonica style, Joe Pug has released a string of critically acclaimed albums since 2008. Additionally, Joe is the creator and host of the popular podcast The Working Songwriter. John and Joe explore what it means to be an artist, what Joe notices in the myriad conversations he has on his podcast about working artists, and a little impromptu guitar at the end. Please take a look at one of the best podcasts on the web: https://theworkingsongwriter.com/ 🍷Want to thr...
2024-12-1957 min
Heavy Things LightlyPavel SchelinFind this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0BisN-lw4ewJohn talks with Pavel Schelin ( @PavelShchelin ) about modernity, the war in Ukraine, and what this means for America and Russia. Pavel is a Russian, Orthodox Christian and political philosopher.✒ Find articles, John's novel, and even more Heavy Things Lightly at Substack: https://johnheersftf.substack.com/✈ Tailormade travel adventures in Europe and Africa: https://www.gratitude-travels.com/home🔎 Discover the non-profit behind Heavy Things Lightly: https://first-things.org/🇬🇪 🇬🇹 🇲🇿 🇸🇱 2 years. Deep cultural immersion. Intense personal discovery. See what it means to become a Field Worker with FTF...
2024-12-101h 16
Heavy Things LightlyConversations: Loren Wilkinson | WAWTAR #159Loren Wilkinson is Professor Emeritus at Regent College where he delves into issues like Christianity and the arts, philosophy, and earthkeeping. He is also an author and his latest book, Circles and the Cross: Cosmos, Consciousness, Christ, and the Human Place in Creation can be found here: https://a.co/d/6CyAcIBVisit us at https://first-things.org/2 years. Deep cultural immersion. Intense personal discovery. See what it means to become a Field Worker with FTF: https://first-things.org/opportunities or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org for more information.Like the podcast...
2023-11-301h 04
Heavy Things LightlyWhat is the World? | WAWTAR #157Today we kick off our next series tackling a huge question: what is the world? Flat earthers. Round earthers. Physical, metaphysical, and all the bits in-between. And at the end we will cap this off with an in depth discussion.Visit us at https://first-things.org/ 2 years. Deep cultural immersion. Intense personal discovery. See what it means to become a Field Worker with FTF: https://first-things.org/opportunities or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org for more information. Like the podcast? Join Inside Baseball with John Heers to support our work and gain...
2023-11-1017 min
Heavy Things LightlyConversations: Fr. Emmanuel Charles McCarthy - On Christian Nonviolence | WAWTAR #156Today we are pleased to have Fr. Emmanuel Charles McCarthy join us for an look at his life, teachings and work. Fr. McCarthy is a Nobel Peace Prize nominee for his steadfast teaching of Christian Nonviolence around the world. Fr. McCarthy's work with the Center for Christian Nonviolence: https://www.emmanuelcharlesmccarthy.org/ Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Field Worker! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org Like the podcast? Join Inside Baseball with Joh...
2023-10-311h 24
Heavy Things LightlyConversations: Fr. Silouan Justiniano - The New World Isn't So Bad John | WAWTAR #155Iconographer and Orthodox monk Fr. Silouan Justiniano rejoins WAWTAR to have a serious discussion about the New World. Is it really all that bad? Or are we to enamored with the past to see what we have now in the present? Fr. Silouan's work and more: https://hieromonksilouan.org/ Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Field Worker! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org Like the podcast? Join Inside Baseball with John Heers to sup...
2023-10-201h 03
Heavy Things LightlyConversations: David Patrick Harry @ChurchoftheEternalLogos | WAWTAR #154 Today John sits down with David Patrick Harry, founder of the @ChurchoftheEternalLogos channel to talk Orthodoxy, masculinity, truth, and technology. Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Field Worker! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org Like the podcast? Join Inside Baseball with John Heers to support our work and gain access to monthly, live deep dives into the themes of the show. Check it out: https://tinyurl.com/yck3c4n2 For all the updat...
2023-10-121h 24
Heavy Things LightlyBathing, Baptism, & Orthodoxy | WAWTAR #153Our final entry into bathing of our 4 part series. Getting clean goes beyond the physical and today we look at baptism, maybe the most controversial act of "washing" today. Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Field Worker! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.orgLike the podcast? Join Inside Baseball with John Heers to support our work and gain access to monthly, live deep dives into the themes of the show. Check it out: https://tinyurl.c...
2023-10-0518 min
Heavy Things LightlyThe Symbolic World of Water | WAWTAR #152Part 3 of our deep dive (pun intended?) into water. Today Heers takes us around the mostly ancient world to examine all the ways water has been understood and where exactly it leaves us in regard to modern materialism.Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Field Worker! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.orgLike the podcast? Join Inside Baseball with John Heers to support our work and gain access to monthly, live deep dives into the...
2023-10-0223 min
Heavy Things LightlyJohn Heers at Montanika | WAWTAR #151 From the Montanika conference earlier this year. John talks about how we should be living in this world. Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Field Worker! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org Like the podcast? Join Inside Baseball with John Heers to support our work and gain access to monthly, live deep dives into the themes of the show. Check it out: https://tinyurl.com/yck3c4n2 For all the updates join our...
2023-09-1550 min
Heavy Things LightlyBathing as Ritual | WAWTAR #150 Part 2 of our bathing miniseries. Today John takes a historical look at getting clean, both culturally and ritually. Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Field Worker! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.orgLike the podcast? Join Inside Baseball with John Heers to support our work and gain access to monthly, live deep dives into the themes of the show. Check it out: https://tinyurl.com/yck3c4n2For all the updates join ou...
2023-09-0517 min
Heavy Things LightlyBathing and Baptism | WAWTAR #149 Bathing. Washing. Immersing in water to become clean. What is bathing and by extension...baptism? Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Field Worker! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org Like the podcast? Join Inside Baseball with John Heers to support our work and gain access to monthly, live deep dives into the themes of the show. Check it out: https://tinyurl.com/yck3c4n2 For all the updates join our Telegram channel: http...
2023-08-3016 min
Heavy Things LightlyJust...War. | WAWTAR #148Our final installment on war. Is there really a thing as "Just War?" How can we understand modern war as it relates the "Just" theory? Finally, where does the ancient Orthodox East land when dealing with war? Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Field Worker! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org Like the podcast? Join Inside Baseball with John Heers to support our work and gain access to monthly, live deep dives into the themes of...
2023-08-1722 min
Heavy Things LightlyConversations: Kilts Khalfan | WAWTAR #147Kiltz sits down with us again to talk about what's happening in France (and around the world), the notion of race, homage, and so much more. Kilts is a Medieval thinker, poet, concept artist, and co-author of two books (and counting) published by the Dragon Common Room. Dragon Common Room: https://tinyurl.com/2r376syz Kilts' latest article "Normans in Paris": https://tinyurl.com/mjpj9fr8 & her telegram channel: https://t.me/sandwichpress Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Field Worker! Check out our Join FTF p...
2023-08-091h 20
Heavy Things LightlyWar as Martyrdom | WAWTAR #146 What happens when the gods go away and war becomes secular? We dive into this by taking a look at the Battle of Bull Run and what it heralded for the New World. Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Field Worker! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org Like the podcast? Join Inside Baseball with John Heers to support our work and gain access to monthly, live deep dives into the themes of the show. Check it...
2023-08-0316 min
Heavy Things LightlyWar & Heaven | WAWTAR #145Our continued exploration of war. Today we take a look at the ancient understanding that war and heaven were tied together. Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Field Worker! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org Like the podcast? Join Inside Baseball with John Heers to support our work and gain access to monthly, live deep dives into the themes of the show. Check it out: https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/MTg0OTAz
2023-07-2718 min
Heavy Things LightlyTotal War | WAWTAR #144 War. Probably as old as mankind itself. But was it always understood to be the same as our modern age? What of ancient, bloody war? And today's wars of drones and surgical strikes? To start the investigation we will try and understand what total war means in our more modern age. Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Field Worker! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org Like the podcast? Join Inside Baseball with John Heers to sup...
2023-07-2021 min
Heavy Things LightlyUsury at Last | WAWTAR #143It's the final chapter on usury and it's...well, we will let modern advertising tell the story. (Hint: It's not great). But the story is far from over, who knows what future generations will choose? Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Field Worker! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org Become a Monthly Donor and join our monthly Q&A with John! - https://first-things.org/donate For all the updates join our Telegram cha...
2023-07-1323 min
Heavy Things LightlyFrom Fearing to Embracing Usury | WAWTAR #141Why was the Old World so fearful of usury? What did ancient scholars have to say about it? And how were all the warnings slowly ignored to land us in the land of usury today? Big shout out to Greg Gilbertson and crew for the great music! Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Field Worker! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org Become a Monthly Donor and join our monthly Q&A with John! - h...
2023-06-2717 min
Heavy Things LightlyUsury & the Old World | WAWTAR #140 Usury. An empire building tool? A necessary evil? A path to build wealth? John walks us through the beginnings of usury in the Old World and in later episodes how we arrived at modern usury (like pre-approved credit cards aimed at unemployed teenagers with unreasonable interest rates). Big shout out to Greg Gilbertson and crew for the great music! Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Field Worker! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org Beco...
2023-06-2224 min
Heavy Things LightlyConversations: Graham Pardun | WAWTAR #139Orthodox poet, author, and essayist Graham Pardun joins John to talk about modern Orthodoxy, enlightenment, and the value of choosing the right words, in the right order. He has gained recent notoriety for his self-published collection of essays titled, The Sunlilies.Graham's Substack: https://sabbathempire.substack.com/Order Graham's books: https://treedweller.net/booksFor a more academic, written dive into WAWTAR themes, head over to the Heavy Things Done Lightly Substack: https://johnheersftf.substack.com/Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Field Worker! Check out...
2023-06-141h 07
Heavy Things LightlyMagic Never Really Left... | WAWTAR #138As we wrap up this White JuJu series, John looks at the future. Is magic, spiritualism, religion, or "how we make meaning in the post-modern world" really gone? And what happens when the irrational world view gets its revenge?Big shout out to Greg Gilbertson and crew for the great music! For a more academic, written dive into WAWTAR themes, head over to the Heavy Things Done Lightly Substack: https://johnheersftf.substack.com/Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Field Worker! Check out our Join FTF page: h...
2023-06-0612 min
Heavy Things LightlyHow the West Rid Itself of Magic | WAWTAR #137 White JuJu. Public Schooling. And this week the rise of the mechanistic mind. The expulsion of magic from society. Join John as we take a look at the beginning of how the West today started to expel "magic" and "religion" from society. Big shout out to Greg Gilbertson and crew for the great music! Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Field Worker! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org Become a Monthly Donor and join...
2023-05-3117 min
Heavy Things LightlyConversations: Fr. Peter Heers | WAWTAR #136John is joined by his brother Fr. Peter Heers to talk life, Orthodoxy in America, and his current state of affairs in an almost perfect rendition of heavy things done lightly. Take a moment to visit the Orthodox Ethos here: https://www.orthodoxethos.com/ Big shout out to Greg Gilbertson and crew for the great music! Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Field Worker! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org Become a Mo...
2023-05-241h 28
Heavy Things LightlyQuantifying Religion | WAWTAR #135Last week was Juju, both here in the Americas and overseas, and the Old World mindset that accompanied it. And like magic, religion would be "explained" to us by those uncomfortable with mystery. Join us as we peel back history to reveal the roots of Babylon (maybe) and future America's DNA in the guise of the 5x winner of best named things, the New York State Buffalo Normal School. AKA the first public school. Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Field Worker! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/o...
2023-05-1615 min
Heavy Things LightlyWhite People JuJu | WAWTAR #134Magic. Juju. Voodoo. It's Old World and for us new worlders, incomprehensible, nonsensical, and quite often frightening. Using magic as our springboard, we are going to explore how we went from a time of mystery to quantity. From magic to data and beyond.Links:Documentary on Appalachia Magic: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NwaUcSRsQPQ Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Field Worker! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org Become a Monthly D...
2023-05-0918 min
Heavy Things LightlyPaul Kingsnorth: The End of Anthropology | WAWTAR #133 John is delighted to welcome back Paul Kingsnorth for a fascinating look at some of the narratives the modern world is wrestling with. Evolution, transhumanism, and more. Discover Paul's work: Substack: https://paulkingsnorth.substack.com/ Website: https://www.paulkingsnorth.net/ Youtube: @Peekay72 Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Field Worker in Georgia! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org Become a Monthly Donor and join our monthly Q&A with John! - htt...
2023-03-3059 min
Heavy Things LightlyAustin Klise - Re-immersion | WAWTAR #131Austin Klise, former Field Worker for FTF, entrepreneur, businessman, and all round great guy talks about the transition back to America, the perception of money, and a little on foreign NGOs. Does the deep immersive experience interest you? We want you to join us in Georgia and Guatemala! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.orgTo support this podcast and the work of First Things Foundation, please consider becoming a monthly donor: www.first-things.org/donate For all the updates join our T...
2023-03-1549 min
Heavy Things LightlyJoshua Gibbs - What is the Enlightenment? | WAWTAR #128Today John sits down with Joshua Gibbs, writer, philosopher and educator. Joshua's books, including "How to Be Unlucky" have received national acclaim and his forthcoming book "Love What Lasts" is due to release this year. Josh and John take a deep look into the enlightenment and what exactly that has led to in our modern world. Josh's website to find out more about him and his books: https://www.gibbsclassical.com/ Does the deep immersive experience interest you? We want you to join us in Georgia and Guatemala! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/o...
2023-02-161h 07
Heavy Things LightlyRogan, Walsh, & Mismarriage | WAWTAR #127John's head popped off, but he managed to get it placed back on long enough to deliver his thoughts on a discussion between Matt Walsh and Joe Rogan (the very discussion that caused the head popping). What is marriage? What is it for? And where do we all get it so wrong?Does the deep immersive experience interest you? We want you to join us in Georgia and Guatemala! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org Become a Monthly Donor and...
2023-02-0146 min
Heavy Things LightlyReisha Perlmutter - The Deep End of Art | Immersion Series #6 | WAWTAR #126Reisha Perlmutter is a painter (and we would say philosopher of sorts) whose paintings have captured the fascination and acclaim of both critics and lovers of art in general. Her "classical" training has complemented her drive to answer life's most profound questions to produce incredible pieces of art and John sits down to discover just what that all means.Discover all of Reisha's work and more here: https://www.reishaperlmutter.com/Does the deep immersive experience interest you? We want you to join us in Georgia and Guatemala! Check out our Join FTF page: https...
2023-01-2457 min
Heavy Things LightlyUncle Seth and the Great Experiment | WAWTAR #124Uncle Seth, after a prolonged hiatus, is back! John shares an interesting video feature a biologist named Jeremy from the World Transformation Movement and, well, things go from there.The Full Interview with Jeremy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-TK6_aWqGUDoes the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Vanguard Field Worker for Mozambique! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org Become a Monthly Donor and join our Podcourse - https://first-things.org...
2023-01-041h 18
Heavy Things LightlyDr Timothy Patitsas - The Ethics of Beauty Dr. Timothy Patitsas is the Interim Dean of Hellenic College and the Assistant Professor of Ethics at Holy Cross. His book, "The Ethics of Beauty," attempts "[...] to recover one of the most ancient emphases of Orthodox spirituality, which is the firm priority given to combating the sensual rather than the intellectual passions [and] how this translates into a consoling and liberating Beauty-first approach to Orthodox ethics and life. Links: Ethics of Beauty (book) - https://tinyurl.com/5hpp6s36 First Things Foundation - https://first-things.org/ Keipi Restaurant - https://www.keipirestaurant.org/ Telegram...
2022-12-101h 16
Heavy Things LightlyNick Kotar - Art and a Unifying VisionDeacon Nick Kotar, author & writer, rejoins WAWTAR and Heers to talk about the narratives that shape our lives. The conversation covers modern stories (like Amazon's Rings of Power) and the more Universal story (perhaps the Christian one). Deacon Kotar also talks about his Christmas Kickstarter which you can find out more about here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1402845448/jolabokaflod-christmas-book-flood-in-a-boxDoes the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Vanguard Field Worker for Mozambique! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things...
2022-12-021h 11
Heavy Things LightlyTim Berg - Test Piloting and Detached Observation (Immersion Series #5)Today Heers is joined by Tim Berg, retired Navy pilot and current test pilot for Boeing. Tim breaks down what it takes to be a test pilot, the intersection of intuition and understanding, and how any test pilot has to develop the ability to act as a detached observer.Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Vanguard Field Worker for Mozambique! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org Become a Monthly Donor and join our Podcourse...
2022-11-241h 14
Heavy Things LightlyNeil DeGraide - Storytelling in the New World (Immersion Series #4)Neil DeGraide of Dirt Poor Robins talks with John Heers about musicianship, storytelling and the making of their film "Queen of the Night." Discover Dirt Poor Robins music: https://www.dirtpoorrobins.com/Queen of the Night Premiers Nov. 15th. Check out the trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kpCfelKepVIDoes the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Vanguard Field Worker for Mozambique! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org Become a M...
2022-11-151h 15
Heavy Things LightlyKilts Khalfan - The State of the WorldKilts Khalfan is back! John and Kilts talk modern culture, femininity, tradition and what the future holds for unique cultures. An excellent overview of modernity and what it means for all us Old Worlders out there.Don't forget to check out Dragon Common Room: http://dragoncommonroom.comDoes the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Vanguard Field Worker for Mozambique! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org Become a Monthly Donor! - https://first-things...
2022-10-271h 16
Heavy Things LightlyBackhoe People In our shifting world there is a crevice opening up: the ontology of the new world is clashing against the old. The modern "backhoe" idea of I can do, be, and move anything myself is coming up against the idea of "well maybe...if God wills it..." Come along with John as we explore this idea a little more.Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Vanguard Field Worker for Mozambique! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org
2022-10-1926 min
Heavy Things LightlyJimbob - Making Sense of the Old World JimBob, more commonly known as Made By Jimbob (see links below) is an artist, meme crafter, YouTuber, and someone on a profound journey into Orthodoxy. John and Jimbob sit down to talk about that journey and how it's reacted to the New World.Made by Jimbob (website): https://madebyjimbob.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/MadebyJimbobDoes the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Vanguard Field Worker for Mozambique! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org
2022-10-131h 45
Heavy Things LightlyJonathan Pageau - The Fool, Tradition, and the ChurchJonathan Pageau joins the WAWTAR podcast for another relaxed conversation about the state of the world, a Georgian feasting tradition, and the Church. Thank you Jonathan for coming back on!Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Vanguard Field Worker for Mozambique! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org Become a Monthly Donor! - https://first-things.org/donateFor all the updates join our Telegram channel: https://t.me/firstthingsfoundation
2022-09-2758 min
Heavy Things LightlyCreation Begins with Sacrifice - Daniel PadrnosFirst Things Foundation Executive Countries Director and WAWTAR editor takes over the show today. This pod is from a talk he gave at Montanica 2022 (an Orthodox conference). He breaks down the FTF experience, the Keipi as an icon of our work, and what happens when our Field Workers really immerse themselves in the experience. Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Vanguard Field Worker for Mozambique! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org Become a Monthly...
2022-09-0628 min
Heavy Things LightlyJonathan Jackson - Art, Film, and Orthodoxy (Immersion Series #3)Jonathan Jackson revisits WAWTAR this week to talk about the intersection of Christianity and art, how authentic pieces of art can be created, and his experience as a professional actor. Jonathan is an award-winning actor and has also started the Theoria Film School, a non-profit venture with a vision of artistic and spiritual empowerment through a Patristic, Orthodox lens. Check out the link below to learn more.Links:Theoria Film School - https://www.theoriafilm.org/aboutDoes the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Vanguard Field Worker for Mozambique! Check...
2022-08-301h 21
Heavy Things LightlyUncle Seth and the Alien InvasionUncle Seth wants to know what would happen if aliens showed up tomorrow. Would America fall apart or come together? It gets heated, that's what we know for sure!Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Vanguard Field Worker for Mozambique! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org Become a Monthly Donor! - https://first-things.org/donateFor all the updates join our Telegram channel: https://t.me/firstthingsfoundation...
2022-08-171h 25
Heavy Things LightlyThe Equality Binge EpochAh the crack cocaine of postmodernists. Equality! Heers takes a look at what our modern culture is binging on these days, but also at old world societies and their binges. Equality might be the intellectual food de jour, but history has shown this is just one course in a whole slew of dishes going back in time.Links:Audi #DriveProgress Super Bowl Commercial: “Daughter”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jk6VIswOCmU Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Vanguard Field Worker for Mozambique! Check out our Join FTF p...
2022-08-0938 min
Heavy Things LightlyJeremy Firth - The Mormon Missionary Experience (Immersion Series #2)Jeremy Firth of Salt Lake City joins John Heers to talk about what it was like being a Mormon missionary and the important lessons learned from the experience. What is it like knocking on doors all day? Being rejected constantly? And doing it for months at a time? Come find out in our second installment of the Immersion Series.Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Vanguard Field Worker for Mozambique! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org
2022-07-201h 15
Heavy Things LightlyFr. Peter Heers & Fr. Silouan Justiniano - Perennialism Pt. 2Fr. Peter Heers is an Orthodox priest, author, and founder of the "Orthodox Ethos" website and podcast. He is joined by Fr. Silouan Justiniano, a monk and iconographer in the Orthodox tradition. In part two the discussion turns to "covidism" and perennialism in the Orthodox church.Links:The Orthodox Ethos - https://orthodoxethos.comHieromonk Silouan Iconography - https://hieromonksilouan.org/Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Vanguard Field Worker for Mozambique! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos...
2022-07-1236 min
Heavy Things LightlyFr. Peter Heers & Fr. Silouan Justiniano - Perennialism Pt. 1Fr. Peter Heers is an Orthodox priest, author, and founder of the "Orthodox Ethos" website and podcast. He is joined by Fr. Silouan Justiniano, a monk and iconographer in the Orthodox tradition. Today in pt 1 of this 2 part series they talk about perennialism, its temptation, and what it means for us New Worlders.Links:The Orthodox Ethos - https://orthodoxethos.comHieromonk Silouan Iconography - https://hieromonksilouan.org/Does the deep immersive experience interest you? You should consider becoming a Vanguard Field Worker for Mozambique! Check out our Join FTF page: https://first-things.org/opportunities for...
2022-07-071h 05
Heavy Things LightlyUncle Seth and Uber MonstersWelcome back Uncle Seth! This week it's monsters and how we deal with them in our culture. Also abortion and what the heck is going on there. But really, the question Heers and Seth try to come to grips with is, "What ideal is our country elevating above all else?" WAWTAR now has a Facebook group: Why Are We Talking About (More) Rabbits? Join us for more conversation at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/797121200908155If you like this podcast, please consider leaving a review with your comments. Your support keeps this podcast alive...
2022-05-251h 37
Heavy Things LightlyFr. Hans Jacobse - The Structure of RealityOrthodox priest, speaker, writer and long time friend of FTF joins Heers to talk about his ministry, the challenges men and women face in contemporary culture, and of course, the structure of reality. This one goes deep and you wont want to miss a second!Links:St. Paisios Brotherhood - https://www.stpaisiosbrotherhood.com/Bulgakov, Philosophy of Economy - https://tinyurl.com/2p8dvwacPageau, The Language of Creation - https://tinyurl.com/6mfk9p2fWAWTAR now has a Facebook group: Why Are We Talking About (More) Rabbits? Join us for more conversation at: https...
2022-05-111h 12
Heavy Things LightlyUniversal StorytellingOn a recent (domestic!) flight, Heers had the chance to see a rather interesting movie called the Night of the Kings, from the Ivory Coast (link below). The story it tells is fascinating and old world, but does everyone receive the story in the same way? Are other narratives constructed to fit a particular world view? Here comes a heavy dose of universal storytelling...lightly.Links:Night of the Kings - https://tinyurl.com/344s66vyWAWTAR now has a Facebook group: Why Are We Talking About (More) Rabbits? Join us for more conversation at...
2022-04-2027 min
Heavy Things LightlyUncle Seth and the God-O-MeterUncle Seth! Need we say more? Today he and John talk about the new (old?) American God: politics. Seth and John take a little "test" designed for middle school students to help determine where they land on the political spectrum. Are Seth's new world ideals Liberal? Are John's old world leanings Conservative? Time to find out...Links:Political Views Survey: www.first-things.org/political-views-surveyPew Research Religious Landscape Study: https://www.pewforum.org/religious-landscape-study/political-ideology/WAWTAR now has a Facebook group: Why Are We Talking About (More) Rabbits? Join us for more conversation at: https://www...
2022-03-161h 28
Heavy Things LightlyFr. Deacon Ananias - The State of ScienceThis week Heers talks with Fr. Deacon Ananias about science, scientism, and our cultural obsession with it.Borrowed from Fr. Ananias's website: "Fr. Deacon Ananias Sorem, PhD is CEO, Founder, and President of Patristic Faith. Father is an Orthodox apologist and Professor of Philosophy at Fullerton College and Carroll College... Father is the author of several articles and peer-reviewed papers [and] is also known for his YouTube channel, the Norwegian Nous, where he provides content on theology, apologetics, logic, and philosophy."Links:Patristic Faith: https://www.patristicfaith.com/Norwegian Nous: https://www.youtube.com...
2022-03-081h 24
Heavy Things LightlyMonty Lynn, Rob Gailey, & Derran Reese - What's a Missionary?Today on WAWTAR, Heers is excited to bring on the authors of the book, Development in Mission. Monty Lynn, Rob Gailey, and Derran Reese discuss poverty alleviation, the traps missionaries and foreign aid workers can easily find themselves in, and how we can all adopt a better method moving forward.From their book description: "Jesus's words, "Blessed are you who are poor," are the seeds of a new reality. So how can God's people participate in this transformation of how to live and serve? Development in Mission offers a way forward and encourages readers to embrace a...
2022-03-0158 min
Heavy Things LightlyBecoming King of Your CastleThis week Heers takes a look at a new world phenomena of becoming our own kings and queens. In Haiti this even goes so far as building castles...with moats. But in breaking all this down we need to examine what royalty throughout history and whether or not we really want the same today... WAWTAR now has a Facebook group: Why Are We Talking About (More) Rabbits? Join us for more conversation at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/797121200908155Interested in joining First Things Foundation? We are looking to send two Vanguard Field Workers to Mozambique...
2022-02-2229 min
Heavy Things LightlyWhoopi and RaceSo what the heck happened with Whoopi and her (Old World?) take on race? Heers takes a quick look at why Whoopi may not be as crazy as she seems and how her ideas are fundamentally an Old World view. Don't think that's true? Get ready for the Greeks to blow your mind.Links:Race and Ethnicity in the Classical World: https://www.amazon.com/Race-Ethnicity-Classical-World-Translation/dp/1603849947If you're interested in joining our podcourse (this semesters theme is on Race!) and want a deep dive into the same themes and ideas as WAWTAR follow the...
2022-02-1632 min
Heavy Things LightlySymbolism of the SupraThe Supra (also sometimes known as a Keipi) is an ancient feasting dinner from the Georgian Republic. Today Heers talks about how this feast unites heaven and earth and exposes deep truths about ourselves and each other. You can find more information about the Supra below.Links:The Symbolism of the Supra, Daniel Padrnos: https://thesymbolicworld.com/articles/the-symbolism-of-the-supra/2 Part Series with John on the Supra: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xvik25_9DWcIf you're interested in joining our podcourse and want a deep dive into the same themes and ideas as WAWTAR follow...
2022-02-0823 min
Heavy Things LightlyWhat are Kids Anyways? (Pt. 2)This week Heers returns to wrap up the question of children. In the first part he examined the new world view on children. This week he goes old school, as in 7th century old school. Historically how were children viewed? And how does that inform our understanding of them today?If you're interested in joining our podcourse and want a deep dive into the same themes and ideas as WAWTAR follow the link below to find out more. Classes start January 19th!https://first-things.org/wawtar-podcourseWAWTAR now has a Facebook group: Why Are...
2022-01-0436 min
Heavy Things LightlyWhat are Kids Anyways?What are children? Cosmic mystery? Pain in the ...? It's a very large question, but one that invites all sorts of interesting discussion when viewed from different perspectives. In the West we see a rise in the percentage of parents regretting having children. Is that even a possibility in the Old World? Join Heers as he takes on children in part one of this two part series.If you're interested in joining our podcourse and want a deep dive into the same themes and ideas as WAWTAR follow the link below to find out more. Classes start January 19...
2021-12-2137 min
Heavy Things LightlyCOVID & Shay's RebellionStory time! Dan Shays and his rebellion are revisited by Heers today as an allegorical exploration for COVID, lock-downs, and what is "good" for you and me. Maybe big pharma is good. Maybe everyone receiving the vaccine is great. But maybe Mr post-revolutionary Shays would have gotten a little rowdy over all of this. WAWTAR now has a Facebook group: Why Are We Talking About (More) Rabbits? Join us for more conversation at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/797121200908155Interested in joining First Things Foundation? We are looking to send people to Sierra Leone and the G...
2021-12-0737 min
Heavy Things LightlyAlone TimeWhat is alone time really? And isn't that really just "sitting at my desk and working" time? The Old World sees it as a potential sickness and in the West as a necessity. Come explore (alone or otherwise) what this very common thing actually is with us on WAWTAR.Like the intro music? That was Hilltop who will be joined by Brunes Charles and Georgia Heers for the First Things Foundation benefit concert being held December, 4th in Naples, FL. You can find tickets and info here: https://tinyurl.com/ys69evwrWAWTAR now has...
2021-11-2322 min
Heavy Things LightlyFr. John Strickland: What is Secular?Fr. John Strickland is an Orthodox Priest, teacher, and podcast host of Paradise and Utopia on Ancient Faith Radio. He is also the author of several books including: The Making of Holy Russia, The Age of Division, and The Age of Paradise. He joins John Heers today discussing the historical roots of the secular dimension. What was the world view before it included a secular "space?" And how has the secular space changed from it's inception to now?Links:Paradise and Utopia podcast: https://www.ancientfaith.com/podcasts/paradiseutopiaThe Age of Paradise: https://tinyurl.com/5y74...
2021-08-1058 min
Heavy Things LightlyBaseball and the End of CivilizationBaseball is changing. In fact it has been changing for a while now. And the shift involves a move from "old timer wisdom" to KPIs, swing statistics, and algorithms that let a team win for less money. It might also be heralding a deeper problem in our society as a whole. Join Heers as we take a quick look at how greed and selfishness are changing the game.Interested in joining First Things Foundation? Check out our Join FTF page for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org.We are going to Georgia...
2021-07-2027 min
Heavy Things LightlyWhat's a Conspiracy Anyways?Secret meetings. Plots. Unexplained things. Our imaginations can run wild when we think about conspiracies. They are the proverbial rabbit hole. Instead of talking about a bunch of conspiracies directly, today Heers discusses the historical and post-enlightenment understanding of conspiring along with ice trays and Emmanuel Kant.Links:Check out this semesters podcourse on Conspiracies here: https://first-things.org/wawtar-podcourseInterested in joining First Things Foundation? Check out our Join FTF page for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org.We are going to Georgia this September and you should...
2021-07-0629 min
Heavy Things LightlyRichard Rohlin: The Immersive MindsetToday Richard Rohlin joins Heers to talk about missionary work, the idea of immersion, silence, and a little on the Medieval mindset.Richard Rohlin is a software developer, Germanic philologist, and Orthodox Christian. He speaks and publishes on Germanic poetry, the Inklings, and the Sacramental Imagination. His podcast on Ancient Faith Radio, Amon Sul, explores the themes of JR Tolkein as informed by the Orthodox way of life.Links:The Amon Sûl Podcast - Tolkien & Orthodox ChristianityFinding the Golden Key - Sacramental ImaginationBlog On the Barrow Downs (Germanic Philology, Tolkien, Poetry...)Interested i...
2021-06-291h 02
Heavy Things LightlyFr. Peter Heers: Martyrdom & ModernityFr. Peter Heers, Orthodox priest and author, rejoins WAWTAR to talk more about Orthodoxy, what a martyr is, and the perilous state of education. Fr. Peter, known for his book "The Ecclesiological Renovation of Vatican II" (https://tinyurl.com/52udprh9), is also the host and creator of The Orthodox Ethos podcast (https://orthodoxethos.com/). Links:Check out Fr. Peter's "Survival Course" here: https://orthodoxethos.com/survival-course-2020Interested in joining First Things Foundation? Check out our Join FTF page for more info, or email Daniel at danielpadrnos@first-things.org.We are going to Georgia a...
2021-06-161h 12
Heavy Things LightlyWhat is a City?Most of us live in one, but what is it really? A place to live? A place to work? What about a place to become human? Or discover your purpose? Yikes. Don't worry though, Heers keeps things light as we dip into the idea of a city.Links:The Line - A Linear City in Saudi ArabiaThe Republic - PlatoCoomaraswamy, Ananda (Amazon Link)For a deep dive into WAWTAR, register for our weekly "WAWTAR Podcourse". This semester's course is called "Are you a Communist, a Capitalist, or a Christian?" Find out more about the course...
2021-03-2334 min
Heavy Things LightlyWhat is Capitalism?What is Capitalism? Is it an economic model or something more? We take a look at Adam Smith and his contemporaries to better understand what capitalism actually is, which as John argues, is much more than a system of economics. Rather the extension of an idea called individualism.Links:How did the Enlightenment Influence Modern EconomicsClark Carlton: My Two Cents on CapitalismAyn Rand: Introduction to the Objectivist EpistemologyJSJ Consulting: Write us at johnheers@first-things.orgFor a deep dive into WAWTAR, register for our...
2021-03-0951 min
Heavy Things LightlyRoifield Brown on Politics and the Notion of Being BlackOn todays episode of WAWTAR Heers talks with Roifield Brown. Roifield is known for his "10 American Presidents" podcast, but also produces six more and has published hundreds of episodes total. He is the founder of MyVillage.com, has radio shows, directed live TV and has contributed to the Huffington Post from time to time. He also happens to be an avid international traveler.Today Heers and Roifield talk about what is eating away at the foundations of the great American experiment and on being black in the US.Links:About Roifield Brown10 American Presidents Po...
2021-03-021h 05
Heavy Things Lightly"Profikumus Moray Irretente" and Pearls of WisdomWelcome to episode 35 of WAWTAR. Today Heers looks at the life of General Curtis LeMay and his thoughts on air combat and how that relates (it does) to modern love and marriage. But more importantly we examine what it is we base our decisions on in life.Links:Bomber Mafia, Revisionist HistoryLand Your Man podcastWhat is a Sutra (Wikipedia)For a deep dive into WAWTAR, register for our weekly "WAWTAR Podcourse" with John Heers. This semester's title is "Are you a Communist, a Capitalist, or a Christian?" Find out more about the course and how...
2021-02-2339 min
Heavy Things LightlyUncle Seth Cancels Star WarsHe's back. It's Uncle Seth again and we're discussing "cancel culture," New World commandments, and if it's possible to be friends with people on the other side of the political divide. You know it's going to get spicy when Uncle Seth shows up...---For a deep dive into WAWTAR, register for our weekly "WAWTAR Podcourse" with John Heers. This semester's title is "Are you a Communist, a Capitalist, or a Christian?" Find out more about the course and how to join (it's never to late!) here.Interested in joining First Things Foundation...
2021-02-161h 00
Heavy Things LightlySandy Koufax, Kyrie Irving and Sitting DownWelcome! This week Heers and Daniel discuss Old and New World types of protest and to do that we take a look at sports. Sandy Koufax and Kyrie Irving both "sat down," but is what they did truly the same? And Heers asks the Daniel a question about a body triangle that leaves us all feeling a little nervous.Links:Koufax's Yom Kippur Decision, 50 Years LaterWhile Koufax is rightly lauded, Yom Kippur example set by Hank GreenbergWhy is Kyrie Irving not playing? Latest updates as Nets star keeps missing gamesFor a deep dive into...
2021-02-0929 min
Heavy Things LightlyTime, Timelines and What's the Common Era Anyway?Reilly Dooris, former FTF Field Director in Guatemala joins Heers this episode to discuss time and timelines. How do we determine the starting point for calendars? Is there a point in time that carries more importance than others? A day "zero?" Join us for a most timely conversation!Links:Calendars through the agesProposed New Calendar Would Make Time RationalThe Origin and History of the BCE/CE Dating SystemFor a deep dive into WAWTAR, register for our weekly "WAWTAR Podcourse" with John Heers. This semester's title is "...
2021-02-0458 min
Heavy Things LightlySymbolic Thinking w/ Jonathan Pageau: An Interview Jonathan Pageau, artist and founder of the Symbolic World podcast, joins John for an interview. The discussion ranges from symbolic thinking in the new world to Jonathan's past experiences with Mennonites in Africa.Links:The Symbolic World (Jonathan's podcast and work)The Language of Creation - Matthieu Pageau (Amzn)For a deep dive into WAWTAR, register for our weekly "WAWTAR Podcourse" with John Heers. This semester's title is "Are you a Communist, a Capitalist, or a Christian?" Find out more about the course and how to join (it's never to late!) here.Interested i...
2021-01-2654 min
Heavy Things LightlyPriests, Priestesses, Protesters and the PigpenIn episode 30 of WAWTAR Heers introduces the idea of the priest. Whos traditional role was rooted in sacrifice and who functioned as mediator between the seen and unseen worlds. The light and the dark. We take a look at how that role, which has slowly disappeared is now manifesting itself elsewhere in different forms.Links:Fr. Thomas HopkoFind out more about SJS Consulting by emailing John Heers FTF Quartz, "Explosive Growth in Witch Population"Asatru Norse Religion, Fastest Growing Faith in IcelandMaybe There is a Possibility of a Post Christian P...
2021-01-1936 min
Heavy Things LightlyEden Revisted Podcast interviews John HeersEden Revisited, a podcast that "cuts through the noise of the modern world and journeys to the roots of wonder and beauty," brings on John Heers to discuss his recently published novel 3Souls. Enjoy this interview and please check out Eden Revisited on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your content.Links:Eden Revisited on Apple Podcasts3Souls (Amazon link)For a deep dive into WAWTAR, register for our weekly "WAWTAR Podcourse" with John Heers. This semester's title is "Are you a Communist, a Capitalist, or a Christian?" Find out more about the course and...
2021-01-1258 min
Heavy Things LightlyMets, Jets, Greens, & BluesSports! Well chariot racing anyways. And a large riot. And can this kind of thing happen today? It's story time with John and his daughters as we discuss sports, identity and if modern culture is all that different from the ancient ones.For a deep dive into WAWTAR, register for our weekly "WAWTAR Podcourse" with John Heers. This semester's title is "Are you a Communist, a Capitalist, or a Christian?" Find out more about the course and how to join (it's never to late!) here.Interested in joining First Things Foundation? Check out our Join...
2021-01-0549 min
Heavy Things LightlyThe Nashville Bomb and Books of FictionWelcome back to WAWTAR and episode 28. Today Heers takes a look at the stories we tell and the truths therein. Can fiction be truthful? Why wasn't writing fiction a thing back in the day (pre-1600's)? And what does all of this have to do with the Nashville bomb? Come find out on todays episode of Why Are We Talking About Rabbits.Links:Notes on the History of FictionThe New Middle Ages by Eugene Vodolazkin | ArticlesThe origin of fiction3Souls: an ancient uptown love triangleW...
2020-12-2932 min
Heavy Things LightlyThe Uncle Seth Holiday Special!He's back! And this time we have some questions for him that a few of you, our listeners, wanted to ask. Join Heers and Seth for a hilarious episode where things are kept very light.For a deep dive into WAWTAR, register for our weekly "WAWTAR Podcourse" with John Heers. This semester's title is "Are you a Communist, a Capitalist, or a Christian?" Find out more about the course and how to join (it's never to late!) here.Interested in joining First Things Foundation? Check out our Join FTF page for more info, or email...
2020-12-2249 min
Heavy Things LightlyFreedom is Confusing - Pt. 2Welcome to Part 2 of our discussion on Freedom. Last week we took a look at the idea of "outside" freedom (government, politics, economy etc.). This week we are turning inwards to explore more the idea of inner freedom. And to help us along our way is Fyodor Dostoevsky - novelist and Russian visionary who will act as our guide. Links:The Russian Soul and the Toxic WestThe Idiot and the Subtext of MaterialismThe Idiot (Amazon)Check out our partners Health & Help and the cool work they do!For a deep dive into WAWTAR, register for o...
2020-12-1536 min
Heavy Things LightlyWhat Is Education?Sit down and pay attention! Today we are learning about...wait...what are we learning today? That's the question Heers poses to modern education. We explore the ancient roots of education, it's transformation, and final destination (which may surprise some of you). Welcome to episode 24 of WAWTAR! Class is in session!Links:Education in AthensThomas Aquinas on EducationJefferson BibleRockefeller and the Board of EducationGagimargos! Wait, what is that in reference to? Learn more about the supra and it's symbolic importance here: https://thesymbolicworld.com/articles/the-symbolism-of-the-supra/If you like this podcast, please...
2020-12-0135 min
Heavy Things LightlySweden, Outer Security, and Joe OThis week John is talking to Joe Obidiegwu: author, teacher, and philosopher. He was born in Nigeria, moved to the US at 17 on a tennis scholarship and then moved to Sweden in 2012. John and Joe talk about how we can reframe some of the old world wisdom in a way that resonates with all of us new-worlders.Links:Healing of a Nation, Joe Obidiegwu (YouTube)Finding Your Way to Heaven Without a Cell Phone, Joe OA Jordan Peterson follow up on Old World concepts and Joe O's idea of "inner stability"An Orthodox Christian...
2020-11-241h 17
Heavy Things LightlyWhat is a Vote?What is a vote? What is that thing we all just did recently in the US? Where does it come from? And what does it mean today? We go back to ancient Greece and Athens to explore the roots of democracy. We also take a contemporary psychological look at what voting means for the modern mind. With both perspectives in hand, Heers offers historical insight into our modern government.Links:Short Video from BBC on Plato and TrumpAmerican Psychological Association on VotingGagimargos! Wait, what is that in reference to? Learn more about the supra...
2020-11-1733 min
Heavy Things LightlyElection Day Special w/ Uncle Seth!It's election day! That means everything is feeling a little heavy. It also means we get to introduce Uncle Seth and make this episode something light. Who is Uncle Seth you might ask? He is many things: a teacher, father, and pragmatist, but also a perfect foil to our resident podcast host John Heers. It's the election day special and episode 21 of WAWTAR!Gagimargos! Wait, what is that in reference to? Learn more about the supra and it's symbolic importance here: https://thesymbolicworld.com/articles/the-symbolism-of-the-supra/If you like this podcast, please consider leaving a...
2020-11-0355 min
Heavy Things LightlyWhat is the Economy?This week sees John talking about the economy. We take a close look at the Greek origins of the word: oikonomia. Is our modern economy related to this ancient understanding? Where does capitalism fit in? Or communism for that matter? It's episode 20 here on WAWTAR!Gagimargos! Wait, what is that in reference to? Learn more about the supra and it's symbolic importance here: https://thesymbolicworld.com/articles/the-symbolism-of-the-supra/If you like this podcast, please consider leaving a review with your comments. Your support keeps this podcast alive and allows us to broaden our discussion. You...
2020-10-2734 min
Heavy Things LightlyWhat Is Change?We're back from Sierra Leone and it's time for episode 18! Today Heers is examining change. What is change? To start scratching at the surface of a question as broad as this, Heers takes us back to 50's and 60's China in a case study of the Red Guard. It's a mix of old and new as change puts everything into turmoil.Links / Further Reading:Wikipedia article on the Red GuardThe Guardian on the Red GuardGreat picture of a Red Guard rallyMao’s Last Revolution by Roderick MacFaquhuar and Michael SchoenhalsChina’s Cultural Revolution, 1966-69: Not a Dinn...
2020-10-1333 min
Heavy Things LightlyLive From Sierra Leone!That's right, this episode is coming at you live from Sierra Leone. While dropping off two new Field Workers for First Things Foundation, John took some time to sit down with a couple of locals from Freetown to talk about the different aspects of their culture. For more information on the topics covered in this episode check out episode 15 where we go more in depth.Links:Integems Environmental ConsultancyAnsu's Film PreviewOlder documentary on SL KrioIf you like this podcast, please consider leaving a review with your comments. Your support keeps this podcast alive and...
2020-10-0627 min
Heavy Things LightlyA Conversation with Nicholas KotarNicholas Kotar is an author, translator (Russian / English) and teacher who's writing is inspired by Russian fairy tales. Perhaps his best known work is the Raven Son series of epic fantasy based on the Russian fairy tale Prince Ivan and the Grey Wolf. He has been featured on podcasts such as Ancient Faith Radio and the Symbolic World and is a father, deacon, and home school teacher. Join Heers and Kotar for a winding conversation covering topics like the fool in culture, the narratives we inhabit and our culture undergoing change. This episode is one you don't w...
2020-09-291h 15
Heavy Things LightlyScience and Magic: Are They the Same?Often times in the "Old World," where First Things Foundation sends its Field Directors, you will encounter magic. Be it voodoo, or Mayan rituals, or any of the myriad types they have a common flavor. As "New Worlders" it's easy for us to hear about this and scoff, yet, what happens when you come face to face with it? With something you don't understand or can't explain? And really, how is that any different from the technological marvels we are surrounded by? Come join John Heers and three former Field Directors for a round-table discussion about magic and science...
2020-09-221h 13
Heavy Things LightlyInterview with Fr. Silouan JustinianoV. Rev. Igumen Silouan Justiniano is an iconographer and a Deputy Abbot of the Monastery of Saint Dionysios the Areopagite in New York. He has written for various publications around the world and is also an editor and contributor to the Orthodox Arts Journal. John and Fr. Silouan talk about icons, images, and art all from a really distinct perspective.Links:Fr. Silouan's WebsiteOn the Gift of Art...But What Art?Episteme and Techne (Stanford)If you like this podcast, please consider leaving a review with your comments. Your support keeps this podcast alive and...
2020-09-151h 05
Heavy Things LightlyToxic MasculinityToxic masculinity. What is it? How can we understand it and where does it come from? Is it a universal trait across the world and cultures? Perhaps most importantly for this podcast, how is viewed through that "Old World" lens? Join John Heers and the WAWTAR crew as we attempt to understand: toxic masculinity.Links:Is Toxic Masculinity Islamic?Learning to Be a Man Without MasculinityCNN: Inside Africa - Tackling Toxic MasculinityFeminist Current Article on Toxic Masculinity and PatriarchyMythopoetic Men's MovementIf you like this podcast, please consider leaving a review with your comments. Your...
2020-09-0937 min
Heavy Things LightlyOrthodoxy and the Old World - An interview with Fr. Peter HeersThis week we are excited to bring on the show Fr. Peter Heers, Orthodox priest and author currently living in Greece. He also happens to be the brother of our host John Heers.Fr. Peter brings a lot of "Old World" into this episode from talking about life in Greek villages to Orthodox Christianity and how it pertains to culture and life. We also dive into thoughts on self esteem, history, and, of course, COVID.Links:Orthodox Ethos Website and PodcastThe Ecclesiological Renovation of Vatican IIFr. Peter Heers PatreonFr. Seraphim Rose: His Life and...
2020-09-011h 23
Heavy Things LightlyOld World Medicine and Inconvenient TruthsWelcome to episode nine! In this episode Heers is joined by doctor, acupuncturist and traditional Chinese medicine practitioner James Mohebali. They talk nature, new vs old world medical practices and of course, COVID.Links:Rasputin biographyRape of Man and Nature, SherrardIf you like this podcast, please consider leaving a review with your comments. Your support keeps this podcast alive and allows us to broaden our discussion. Finally, if you're interested, check out First Things Foundation for more information on who we are and what we do.Music:Provided by Edward Gares...
2020-08-1153 min
Heavy Things LightlyFake News, Oaths and Alligator BladdersIn this episode we explore Truth. But that's a super heavy topic so we decided to come at it from a couple of different angles including juju from Africa, what it means to "take an oath," (do we even do that anymore?), and of course what the term "fake news" hints at. Welcome to episode 8!Links:Format.com Pics of local juju doctorsJohn Tillotson, Archbishop of CanteburyOaths from an Islamic PerspectiveJournal of African Law, JstorA Profane History of Early Modern Oaths, by John SpurrIf you like this podcast, please consider leaving a review with...
2020-08-0429 min
Heavy Things LightlyBye Bye Columbus, Hello New Funky GriotIn this episode Heers brings on his daughters to see what their understanding of history is, what the midnight removal of the Columbus statue indicates, and how our perception, really our understanding, of history fundamentally changed after the Enlightenment.If you like this podcast, please consider leaving a review with your comments. Your support keeps this podcast alive and allows us to broaden our discussion. Finally, if you're interested, check out First Things Foundation for more information on who we are and what we do.Music:Provided by Edward Gares / Pond5.com...
2020-07-2842 min
Heavy Things LightlyThe Light-O-MeterHeers dives deep into an "old world" description that includes the physical aspects in addition to the cultural and philosophical bits. We also bring on a special guest, Georgia, to test out the latest and greatest in technological gadgetry: the Light-O-Meter. To take the Light-O-Meter test click here.For a deep dive into WAWTAR, register for our weekly "WAWTAR Podcourse" with John Heers. This semester's title is "Are you a Communist, a Capitalist, or a Christian?" Find out more about the course and how to join (it's never to late!) here.Interested in...
2020-07-1431 min
Heavy Things LightlyMarriage, Gay Marriage and Body PartsIn this episode John takes a deeper look at the symbolic manifestations of man and woman in architecture, how it relates to the Old World understanding of marriage, and how the love match began to change all that. It's a fascinating ride from ancient Egypt, through the Victorian age with Jane Austin, up until the present where we get to all the confusion surrounding gay marriage.Further Reading:On Obelisks, NOTEDJane Austin's Guide to Happily Ever After"What Would The Greeks Have Thought About Gay Marriage?", Robert Reilly - The Catholic ExchangeThe Significance of the Minaret...
2020-07-0731 min
Heavy Things LightlyVenmo Race Reparations and the HeartPersonal race reparations using Venmo? What are the payments for and why is this happening? And where is it coming from? The head? The heart? Or somewhere else... With an "Old World" lens I'll try to make sense of contemporary phenomena.To learn more about John Heers and First Things Foundation visit first-things.org. And also, think about working for us! You might just end up finding your way out of the Matrix and into a most wonderful and tumultuous version of yourself.Please rate the podcast and share with your friends, and thank you...
2020-06-2340 min
Heavy Things LightlyLet's Talk about RaceSupport this channel: first-things.org/donateHow did we get to where we are? To make sense of the death of George Floyd and the riots and protests, I walk us back to the Enlightenment and the origins of Western Civilization. Phillip Sherrard's, Rape of Man and Nature is my guide for this episode.To learn more about John Heers and First Things Foundation visit first-things.org. And also, think about working for us! You might just end up finding your way out of the Matrix and into a most wonderful and tumultuous version of...
2020-06-1143 min