You're probably familiar with the mythological tale of Hercules (or "Heracles" as the hero was originally called) from books, comics, and movies. But while Hercules is often rendered as a kind of one-dimensional superhero in popular culture, my guest today argues that he's actually quite a complex character, and that the story of how he completed twelve epic labors has a lot to teach us about endurance, revenge, mental illness, violence, punishment, trauma, bereavement, friendship, love, and masculinity.
His name is Laurence Alison, and he's a forensic psychologist and an expert in interrogation, who's created a written and oral retelling of the classic myth. At the start of the show, Laurence shares how he's been using the story of the twelve labors of Hercules to facilitate reflection and discussion amongst military personnel and first responders, and how the labors can provide life insights for everyone. We then dig into the details of many of the labors of Hercules, from slaying a lion to cleaning out stables, and discuss what they can teach us about grappling with life's highs and lows, and what it means to be a man.
Resources Related to the Podcast
Find Laurence Alison's Hercules Retellings
How to Tell Better Stories
The Hidden Tragedy of Male Loneliness
A Change IS a Rest
Outdoor Competence With an Expert Backcountry Hunter
Bringing More Soul (and Poetry) Into Your Work
The Power of Brevity in a Noisy World
#665: How Childhood Shapes Adulthood
#664: The Masters of the Art of War
#448: Your Son Isn’t Lazy — How to Empower Boys to Succeed [RE-BROADCAST]
#663: How to Achieve Physical Autonomy
#662: The Art and Science of Creating Good Luck
#661: Get Better Sleep by Stressing About It Less
#660: How Ancient Greek Tragedies Can Heal the Soul
#659: Do You Want to Be Rich or Wealthy? (And Why the Difference Matters)
#658: In Praise of Maintenance in a World Obsessed With Innovation
#657: Why You Don't Change (But How You Still Can)
#656: The Hidden Pleasures of Learning for Its Own Sake
#655: Simple, Excuse-Busting Advice for Getting in Shape
#654: How to Astronaut
#653: The Dirtbag's Guide to Life
Create your
podcast in
minutes
It is Free
The Maverick Show with Matt Bowles