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Artwork for The Symbolic World

The Symbolic World

Jonathan Pageau
Christianity
Genesis
Symbolism
Western Civilization
Artificial Intelligence
Christmas
Orthodox Christianity
Ralston College
Identity
Storytelling
Iconography
Orthodoxy
Jordan Peterson
Dante Alighieri
Creation
Holy Week
Marriage
Religion
Philosophy
The Divine Comedy

Jonathan Pageau looks at symbolism in all its forms, from its source in sacred stories and images to contemporary culture and ultimately how it shapes the world we encounter.

PublishesTwice weeklyEpisodes481Founded8 years ago
Number of ListenersCategory
Education

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Artwork for The Symbolic World

Latest Episodes

I talk with Rusty Reno about the collapse of the postwar “open society” ideal and the return of people’s need for strong loyalties, meaning, and transcendence. We discuss how we got here after the world wars decimated Western civilization: emergent p... more

Why is St. Michael often shown holding a flaming sword? I look at how this image developed, its connection to the expulsion from Paradise, the defeat of the dragon, and the emergent sacred geography known as the Sword of St. Michael.

YouTube version... more

YouTube

I finally sit down with Diana Pasulka to talk about UFOs, alien intelligence, AI, psychedelics, transhumanism, and the strange religious framework forming around all of them. We look at how these phenomena overlap with older spiritual categories, and... more

YouTube

Dr. Zac Porcu joins me to discuss his upcoming course on the demonological history of the world, looking at the pagan gods, fallen angels, magic, and technology. We explore what happens when you take seriously the early Christian claim that the gods ... more

YouTube

Key Facts

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Contact Information
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Recent Guests

Diana Pasulka
Professor of Religious Studies, author of American Cosmic
University (religious studies)
Episode: 481 - Dr. Diana Pasulka - The New Religion
Christian Roy
Expert on Jacques Ellul and the Bordeaux School of critical techno-critique
My Parish / Ellul circles
Episode: 478 - Christian Roy - Technological Madness: The Logic of Domination
Dr. Zac Porcu
Instructor for A Demonological History of the World
Unknown / The Symbolic World program
Episode: 478 - Christian Roy - Technological Madness: The Logic of Domination
Louise Perry
Author and commentator on social and cultural topics
Author
Episode: 477 - Louise Perry - How Progressivism Took Over Our Stories
Matt Rhodes
Artist, illustrator and world-builder behind Dead Gods
Independent creator
Episode: 476 - Matt Rhodes - The World Before the Flood Reimagined
Jay Dyer
Guest expert on symbolism and conspiracy theories
Episode: 475 - Jay Dyer - The Elites Are Doing Warfare on the Public
Josh Nadeau
Artist and writer focused on neo-medieval iconography and symbolism
Sword and Pencil
Episode: 474 - Josh Nadeau - The Return of a Christian Imagination
Father Andrew Stephen Damick
Priest and author, invited guest on the episode
Orthodox Christian ministry
Episode: 473 - Fr. Andrew Stephen Damick - Paradise Is Already Breaking Into the World
Luke Burgis
Author of The One and the Ninety-Nine, founder of Clooney Institute
Clooney Institute / author of The One and the Ninety-Nine
Episode: 469 - Luke Burgis - The One and the Many

Hosts

Jonathan Pageau
Host of The Symbolic World
Deacon Seraphim
Co-host and interviewer; discusses Universal History and related themes

Reviews

4.9 out of 5 stars from 2.6k ratings
  • Sadly

    Once a show that seemed to bring a beauty to the world and now it is laying a red carpet out for a prideful heart —and a slithering hatred. It breaks my heart

    Apple Podcasts
    1
    Summerhills$
    United States4 months ago
  • The Symbolic World helped renew the eyes I use to see the world, and has continued to help me grow in understanding and in wonder for years. Thank you!

    Podcast Addict
    5
    danielgratz
    5 months ago
  • Excellent

    My go to podcast. So much depth and meaning whilst remaining engaging and entertaining.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Plloyd88
    Ireland6 months ago
  • Mind bending, life changing

    Jonathan Pageau has a very unique perspective and way. Everything is meaningful and part of the fabric of a universal human symbolism. I've been listening to his podcast for years and it's completely changed how I think. Would recommend. 10/10.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Topdogeagle
    South Africa6 months ago
  • Knowledge. Seeking Knowledge.

    I will admit at times this show is out of my lane, but when we are exploring scripture, Mr Pageau fills in the color where previous teachings have left blank. I listen as a podcast and occasionally YT.

    Gloria.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Glory1212
    United States7 months ago

Listeners Say

Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.

Consistently high-quality guests and rigorous symbolic analysis attract long-time followers.
Some listeners feel ads interrupt the flow; others appreciate sponsorships tied to educational programs.
Thoughtful, deep discussions on myth and meaning that feel transformative.
Offers a unique lens on culture through Orthodox-influenced symbolism and mythology, which may polarize some audiences.

Chart Rankings

How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.

Apple Podcasts
#141
United States/Education
Apple Podcasts
#116
Canada/Education
Apple Podcasts
#125
United Kingdom/Education
Apple Podcasts
#99
Australia/Education
Apple Podcasts
#103
Sweden/Education
Apple Podcasts
#161
Switzerland/Education

Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

477 - Louise Perry - How Progressivism Took Over Our Stories
Q: What do you think is gained by maintaining a balance between unity and diversity in culture?
Unity prevents dissolution into chaos, while diversity adds richness; the danger is treating diversity as an end in itself without a shared structure, which undermines social cohesion.
477 - Louise Perry - How Progressivism Took Over Our Stories
Q: You mention that fairy tales function as tuning forks for life. How do you see their role in contemporary upbringing?
They provide safe, symbolic ways to approach trauma and major life transitions without exposing children to explicit harm, helping them build resilience through imagery and archetypes.
467 - Nolan’s The Odyssey Full Breakdown: The Post World War 2 Consensus Movie We Need
Q: What is the significance of Sinon and the 'trick' motif in the story?
Sinon embodies the trickster dynamic that Odysseus uses to survive and to expose the vulnerability of others; the motif emphasizes strategic thinking, deception, and the moral complexity of leadership during crisis.
467 - Nolan’s The Odyssey Full Breakdown: The Post World War 2 Consensus Movie We Need
Q: Why include a diverse cast and modern political critiques within the mythic framework?
To demonstrate how timeless stories can be reshaped to reflect contemporary concerns, while still preserving core ethical and familial dynamics; the host argues this divergent casting highlights the layered interpretation rather than a simple replica of the source material.
467 - Nolan’s The Odyssey Full Breakdown: The Post World War 2 Consensus Movie We Need
Q: What is the central purpose of reimagining The Odyssey in Nolan's film?
To highlight the inner coherence of the myth, show how hospitality and nostos drive the narrative, and use modern casting and thematic choices to explore responsibility, guilt, and the possibility of returning home without erasing past sins.

Audience Metrics

Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.

Listeners per Episode
Gender Skew
Location
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Professions
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Symbolic World

What is The Symbolic World about and what kind of topics does it cover?

This show explores symbolism across sacred stories, ancient texts, and contemporary culture, often threading philosophy, theology, and mythic analysis through cinema, literature, and politics. Recent episodes dissected mythic journeys (Odyssey), masculine virtue in modern narratives, the ethics of storytelling, and how AI and technology intersect with education, faith, and tradition. A standout is the consistent effort to connect ancient archetypes with modern media, inviting listeners to re-enchant everyday life through thoughtful interpretation and live events like summits and Masterclasses. The format blends rigorous analysis with accessible discussion, frequently featuring guest experts and cross-promotional content aimed at deeper enga... more

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Which podcasts are similar to The Symbolic World?

These podcasts share a similar audience with The Symbolic World:

1. The Lord of Spirits
2. The Whole Counsel of God
3. The Arena
4. Jay'sAnalysis
5. Daily Orthodox Scriptures

How many episodes of The Symbolic World are there?

The Symbolic World launched 8 years ago and published 481 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.

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What guests have appeared on The Symbolic World?

Recent guests on The Symbolic World include:

1. Diana Pasulka
2. Christian Roy
3. Dr. Zac Porcu
4. Louise Perry
5. Matt Rhodes
6. Jay Dyer
7. Josh Nadeau
8. Father Andrew Stephen Damick

To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.

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