PHILOSOPHER KINGS. cover art

PHILOSOPHER KINGS.

PHILOSOPHER KINGS.

Written by: Mark Shaffer PhD in Ancient Near Eastern and Classical Literature.
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Philosopher Kings is designed to transform young professionals into people who think, speak, and act with knowledge, wisdom, and virtue—ten(ish) minutes at a time. It’s perfect for growing during your commute, investing in your internal-self during a workout, or leveling up while running errands. Each episode revives ancient philosophy, mythology, and timeless insight to help you lead and live with clarity, navigate chaos with character, and build the good life.

We invite you to listen on your lunch break, on your commute, or while you reset—because the future belongs to the wise. Aristotle explains that "virtue is no accident-- we are what we repeatedly DO." Start by repeatedly listening to a great show made to help you thrive as a young professional and person.

2026 Mark Shaffer, PhD in Ancient Near Eastern and Classical Literature. Careers Economics Personal Success Self-Help Success
Episodes
  • 06. THE SUPERPOWER OF HUMILITY.

    06. THE SUPERPOWER OF HUMILITY.
    Jun 3 2026

    In this episode, Mark explores why admitting that you are "new at this" and embodying humility is a superpower for young professionals and early careers.

    Socrates explained to the men of Athens that what made him so wise was that he was aware of his ignorance. He famously said that "he was the wisest because he knew that he knew nothing."

    There is a release valve that can lower the pressure of being new in your professional life, simply by owning that you are young, embracing the help of mentors, and thanking others for wisdom.

    If you are just out of college or training, in your first five years of your career--We made this episode to encourage you and equip you for growth and success. We hope you love it Kings and Queens!

    Heart,

    The Philosopher Kings Team

    Mark, Skylar, and Ricardo

    Join the Philosopher Kings community here:
    https://www.skool.com/philosopher-kings-8259/about

    For all things Philosopher Kings, visit:
    www.philosopherkings.net
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    6 mins
  • 05. WORK ON THE WEAKEST.

    05. WORK ON THE WEAKEST.
    May 26 2026

    In this episode, Mark explores why feedback is one of the fastest ways young professionals can grow.

    Instead of chasing externals like promotions, praise, and recognition, this episode challenges you to build internal authority by asking better questions, receiving correction, and training the traits that actually create trust.

    Whether your weakness is reliability, integrity, communication, or feedback itself, the path forward is simple: find the gap, train it daily, and become the kind of person people naturally trust, respect, and promote.

    Join the Philosopher Kings community here:
    https://www.skool.com/philosopher-kings-8259/about

    For all things Philosopher Kings, visit:
    www.philosopherkings.net
    Show More Show Less
    5 mins
  • 04. RELIABILITY. INTEGRITY. COMMUNICATION. FEEDBACK.

    04. RELIABILITY. INTEGRITY. COMMUNICATION. FEEDBACK.
    May 26 2026

    In this episode, Mark breaks down the Big Four Core Competencies of Philosopher Kings: Reliability, Integrity, Communication, and Feedback.

    Instead of overwhelming young professionals with endless workplace advice, this episode simplifies what actually matters. Reliability builds trust. Integrity creates internal authority. Communication brings clarity. Feedback fuels growth.

    Master these four traits, and you become the kind of person people trust, respect, and rely on.

    Join the Philosopher Kings community here:
    https://www.skool.com/philosopher-kings-8259/about

    For all things Philosopher Kings, visit:
    www.philosopherkings.net
    Show More Show Less
    9 mins
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