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The Symbolic World

Jonathan Pageau
Christianity
Genesis
Symbolism
Western Civilization
Artificial Intelligence
Christmas
Orthodox Christianity
Ralston College
Identity
Storytelling
Orthodoxy
Jordan Peterson
Dante Alighieri
Iconography
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 weeklyEpisodes469Founded8 years ago
Number of ListenersCategory
Education

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Artwork for The Symbolic World

Latest Episodes

I sat down with Martin Shaw to talk about the underworld and the deep pattern of descent and return. He also gave his own fresh perspective on Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey movie. We explored what it means to come home changed, how these ancient st... more

In this video, I compare The Odyssey and Masters of the Universe to explore two very different visions of masculinity and heroism. While one reduces masculine strength to fantasy, insecurity, and mockery, the other confronts its dangers while still m... more

It's not hard to find your tribe. The real challenge today is not losing yourself within one. Luke Burgis and I discuss why we struggle as modern people to belong without losing ourselves, how technology fragments our desires, why family, friendship,... more

Deacon Seraphim Rohlin joins me for an emergency Universal History episode to debate Christopher Nolan’s adaptation of The Odyssey. We discuss what the film gets right and where it misunderstands the ancient world.

YouTube version: youtu.be/... more

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Recent Guests

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
Malcolm Guite
Poet, Anglican priest; author of Arthurian poetry project
Independent/Rabbit Room Canterbury Press
Episode: 466 - Malcolm Guite - Old Stories Know Secrets That We Have Forgotten
Andrew Stokich
CEO and co-founder of Logo Cinema
Logo Cinema
Episode: 464 - Logos Cinema: Orthodox films, TV shows, and documentaries - streaming now! Get a discount.
Rachel Wilson
Author of occult feminism book; active in online debate space
Author
Episode: 461 - Rachel Wilson - Feminism Is the Political Arm of Witchcraft
Deacon Seraphim
Guest on The Symbolic World, discussing Genesis and universal history
The Symbolic World
Episode: 460 - Dn. Seraphim Rohlin - Universal History: The Origin of the Nephilim
Seraphim Hamilton
Appears as a guest promoting a course on reading Isaiah and symbolism
Episode: 457 - Backrooms (2026): A Strange Return to Normal
Gavin Ortlund
Theologian and author discussing Orthodoxy and salvation
Episode: 456 - Gavin Ortlund - Who Can Be Saved?
Josiah Trenham
Orthodox priest and theologian
Episode: 448 - Fr. Josiah Trenham - How to Integrate Faith, Family, and Nation
Annie Crawford
CS Lewis scholar and medievalist featured for discussion on alchemical symbolism
Episode: 447 - Annie Crawford - The Cosmic Alchemy of That Hideous Strength

Host

Jonathan Pageau
Host and primary organizer, focuses on symbolism, Iconography, and cultural critique.

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 States3 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
    4 months ago
  • Excellent

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

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Plloyd88
    Ireland5 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 Africa5 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 States5 months ago

Listeners Say

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

What you get is a uniquely symbolic lens on culture that rewards careful attention.
Listeners praise deep, transformative insights and thoughtful interviews.
Some episodes are challenging but consistently rewarding for those open to complex ideas.
A few listeners criticize perceived bias or esoteric focus, especially for newcomers.

Chart Rankings

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

Apple Podcasts
#147
United States/Education
Apple Podcasts
#129
Canada/Education
Apple Podcasts
#142
United Kingdom/Education
Apple Podcasts
#162
Australia/Education
Apple Podcasts
#37
Finland/Education
Apple Podcasts
#90
Denmark/Education

Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

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.
466 - Malcolm Guite - Old Stories Know Secrets That We Have Forgotten
Q: Tell us a bit about the project.
Guite explains starting with the Grail and building a four-volume epic to recover the spiritual dimensions of the Arthurian world, driven by a desire to heal the land through myth connected to Christian faith.
462 - Gregg Hurwitz - The Antihero Meets Christianity
Q: Has writing a character with faith affected your own vision or beliefs?
Yes. Writing about faith and the Exodus seminar shifted his worldview, deepening his understanding of symbolism, community, and the dialogue between secular and sacred narratives.

Audience Metrics

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

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Gender Skew
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Professions
Age Range
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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?

A thoughtful exploration of symbolism across religion, history, literature, and culture, with a steady focus on how archetypes, myths, and sacred imagery shape contemporary life. Conversations often bridge Orthodox Christian perspectives with wider cultural critique, touching on faith, politics, technology, education, and art. Notably, the host and frequent guests curate a distinctive lens that connects ancient wisdom to modern meaning, sometimes featuring deep-dive analyses of texts, icons, and historical ideas, and regularly promoting a symbolic World Summit. The show stands out for its invitation-only, idea-forward approach that appeals to listeners seeking meaningful, context-rich discussions rather than surface-level commentary.

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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. Pints With Aquinas
5. Jay'sAnalysis

How many episodes of The Symbolic World are there?

The Symbolic World launched 8 years ago and published 469 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. Luke Burgis
2. Malcolm Guite
3. Andrew Stokich
4. Rachel Wilson
5. Deacon Seraphim
6. Seraphim Hamilton
7. Gavin Ortlund
8. Josiah Trenham

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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