Podcast
The Builders of the Mystic Circle with Brother Jeremy Castle
Hosted by Podcraftr · EN
Who are the Builders of the Mystic Circle?
A gathering of individuals exploring spiritual, mystical, and esoteric knowledge.
Characteristics:
● Shared spiritual goals, such as seeking enlightenment or personal growth
● Rituals and practices, like meditation or discussion of spiritual texts
● Learning and knowledge sharing
● Supportive community
● Symbolic significance of unity and wholeness
Activities:
● Group meditations
● Ritual ceremonies
● Study groups
● Creative expression (writing, art, music, dance)
Purpose:
To provide a sacred space for individuals to deepen their understanding of mystical aspects of life, support each other in their spiritual journeys, and honor the interconnectedness of all life.
Interested in joining a community of like-minded individuals on a journey of spiritual growth and exploration? Want to connect with others who share your passion for the mystical and esoteric? Email us at INFO@BOTMC.org to learn more about joining The Builders of the Mystic Circle or to inquire about starting a Circle in your area. We'd love to hear from you and support your spiritual endeavors!
A gathering of individuals exploring spiritual, mystical, and esoteric knowledge.
Characteristics:
● Shared spiritual goals, such as seeking enlightenment or personal growth
● Rituals and practices, like meditation or discussion of spiritual texts
● Learning and knowledge sharing
● Supportive community
● Symbolic significance of unity and wholeness
Activities:
● Group meditations
● Ritual ceremonies
● Study groups
● Creative expression (writing, art, music, dance)
Purpose:
To provide a sacred space for individuals to deepen their understanding of mystical aspects of life, support each other in their spiritual journeys, and honor the interconnectedness of all life.
Interested in joining a community of like-minded individuals on a journey of spiritual growth and exploration? Want to connect with others who share your passion for the mystical and esoteric? Email us at INFO@BOTMC.org to learn more about joining The Builders of the Mystic Circle or to inquire about starting a Circle in your area. We'd love to hear from you and support your spiritual endeavors!
20episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
#33 - Good Faith and Bad Faith: Understanding Arguments in Today’s World
Aug 1000:19:24Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Builders of the Mystic Circle podcast, Brother Jeremy Castle examines the distinction between good faith and bad faith arguments and their impacts on our discourse. By exploring the effects of modern debate culture, fueled by social media and television, Brother Jeremy underscores how discussions often prioritize conflict and spectacle over authentic understanding and resolution. He offers insightful tips on recognizing bad faith performers and tactics often used to provoke rather than engage. Recognizing the dichotomy of the internet as a resource for good ideas and a platform for bad actors, Brother Jeremy emphasizes the necessity of critical thinking to navigate these complex discussions. Ultimately, this episode encourages listeners to prioritize understanding and truth while participating in public discourse.Suggested books:Nineteen Eighty-Four by George Orwell A haunting dystopian novel set in a future society ruled by the totalitarian Party, where every action and thought is monitored by Big Brother. The story follows Winston Smith’s struggle to retain his individuality and truth in a world dominated by propaganda, censorship, and thought control—a powerful warning about how manipulation and spectacle can replace genuine debate and reality.How to Win an Argument: An Ancient Guide to the Art of Persuasion by Marcus Tullius Cicero A modern collection and interpretation of Cicero’s timeless teachings on rhetoric and persuasion. This practical guide outlines the five pillars of persuasive speech—invention, arrangement, style, memory, and delivery—and explains how logos (logic), ethos (credibility), and pathos (emotion) shape effective argument. Cicero’s advice remains relevant for anyone seeking to argue honestly and skillfully, avoiding the traps of manipulative rhetoric.The Misinformation Age: How False Beliefs Spread by Cailin O’Connor & James Weatherall This book explores how misinformation proliferates—often not because of individual ignorance, but due to the dynamics of social networks, conformity, and trust. The authors show how even scientists and rational thinkers can be swept up by falsehoods when exposed to them in the right social contexts. They emphasize that critical thinking and conscious evaluation of sources are needed to counteract enduring, network-fueled misinformation.Fact Over Fake: A Critical Thinker's Guide to Media Bias and Political Propaganda by Linda Elder & Richard Paul A concise and essential handbook teaching readers how to recognize bias, ideological slants, and outright propaganda in media. Building on a critical thinking framework, the book gives practical tools for dissecting news, understanding the roles of slant and spin, and resisting manipulation—vital skills in an age overwhelmed by sensationalistic and often misleading information streams.Lord of the Flies by William Golding A group of schoolboys stranded on a deserted island attempts to govern themselves with disastrous results. Their society collapses into chaos, violence, and savagery, revealing how quickly reasoned debate and order can fall to spectacle, manipulation, and mob mentality. The novel serves as an allegory for the dangers lurking when critical thought and good faith vanish from group dynamics. [1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nineteen_Eighty-Four [2] https://www.britannica.com/topic/Nineteen-Eighty-four [3] https://web.unica.it/static/resources/cms/documents/NineteenEightyFoursummary.pdf [4] https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29452503-how-to-win-an-argument [5] https://sobrief.com/books/how-to-win-an-argument [6] https://classicsforall.org.uk/reading-room/book-reviews/how-win-argument-ancient-guide-art-persuasion-marcus-tullius-cicero [7] https://vialogue.wordpress.com/2021/02/11/the-misinformation-age-reflections-notes/ [8] https://sobrief.com/books/the-misinformation-age [9] https://yalebooks.yale.edu/book/9780300251852/the-misinformation-age/ [10] https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/55932838-fact-over-fake [11] https://books.google.com/books/about/Fact_over_Fake.html?id=xZ76DwAAQBAJ [12] https://www.target.com/p/fact-over-fake-thinker-s-guide-library-by-linda-elder-richard-paul-hardcover/-/A-1004136074 [13] https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/z47bd6f/revision/2 [14] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lord_of_the_Flies [15] https://www.litcharts.com/lit/lord-of-the-flies/summary [16] https://www.sparknotes.com/lit/1984/summary/ [17] https://lib.morainevalley.edu/public/onebooks/1984/1984-educationmaterials.pdf [18] https://www.litcharts.com/lit/1984/summary [19] https://www.cliffsnotes.com/literature/n/1984/1984-at-a-glance [20] https://study.com/learn/lesson/1984-george-orwell-summary-analysis-themes.html Navigating Information Landscapes/Amusement and Spectacle Win - Wikiversityhttps://www.reddit.com/r/changemyview/comments/177bubf/cmv_debate_culture_spreads_hate/“Bad Faith” Arguments Dominate Social Media – Hamish CampbellThe Real-World Consequences of Misinformation | DISAUnderstanding Misinformation: Our Society, Our Technology, Ourselves | Heinrich Böll StiftungThe Erosion of Critical Thinking in Modern EducationThe Lack of Critical Thinking Skills in Todayâs Society (and the impact that results)The Consilience Project | The Endgames of Bad Faith Communication - The Consilience Project
Transcribe →#32 - Never Meet Your Heroes: Seeing Beyond the Shine
Aug 100:20:06Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Builders of the Mystic Circle podcast, host Brother Jeremy Castle explores the reality behind our heroes and role models. He reflects on the crafted images that celebrities often project and highlights the complexities behind these polished personas. Focusing on the term 'role model', he emphasizes the importance of personal integrity beyond professional prowess. The conversation then moves on to the effects of fame, bringing attention to the potential disconnect with roots, the motives behind charity, and the importance of looking beyond fame to understand a person's true character. The podcast ends with discussions about overcoming the disappointment of letdown heroes and the need for new sources of inspiration, as well as the possibility of enjoying art despite its flawed creator. By fostering a more nuanced view of our heroes, we can ultimately discover profound inspiration in their shared humanity.Suggested books:On Heroes, Hero-Worship, and the Heroic in History by Thomas Carlyle Carlyle’s classic work analyzes how societies shape history by choosing and worshipping heroes—whether poets, prophets, or political leaders. He explores why we seek out heroes and how reverence for them can both inspire and mislead cultures.Dangerous Art: On Moral Criticism of Artworks by James Harold This thought-provoking book discusses whether it’s possible, or even right, to separate an artwork from the morality of its creator. Harold delves into famous cases and philosophical arguments to help readers navigate the “art versus artist” debate.Shattered Idols: The Dark Truths of Fame by Morgan B. Blake A collection of short stories—fiction and nonfiction—that strip away the glamour of stardom. Each story reveals the personal struggles, mistakes, and hidden costs behind the bright lights of celebrity, showing that public figures are human and often flawed.Rabbit, Run by John Updike This modern American novel follows Harry “Rabbit” Angstrom, a once-admired high school basketball star who runs away from his adult responsibilities. Updike paints a complex portrait of a man dealing with disappointment, restlessness, and the loss of hero status.The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger Salinger’s classic novel tells the story of Holden Caulfield, a teenager grappling with the “phoniness” of the adult world and his deep disappointment in the people around him. The book explores the struggle to find meaning and purity in a world full of flawed role models.
Transcribe →#31 - Breathing Room for Everyone
Apr 26, 202500:15:00Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Builders of the Mystic Circle podcast, Brother Jeremy Castle explores the concept of 'Privilege is Not Freedom.' He illuminates the invisible walls of privilege that many individuals unknowingly live within, created by societal norms and rules. He distinguishes between extended privilege and genuine freedom, exposing the fallacy in considering the former as the latter. Using vivid metaphors and impactful quotes, the host shows that while privilege involves having more choices and fewer worries, real freedom arises from universal access to opportunities, ensuring everyone can thrive and breathe easy. The episode challenges listeners to not merely guard what they have, but share, and grow a collective sense of freedom, thus transitioning away from merely comfortable to genuinely free. The podcast concludes by encouraging listeners to lift each other, demonstrating that collective strength leads to true freedom.Suggested books:To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee Through the eyes of a child, this novel reveals how privilege shields some from injustice, and how real freedom requires courage and empathy.Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler Set in a collapsing society, it explores themes of survival, privilege, and the need to build a shared, inclusive future.Les Misérables by Victor Hugo A sweeping story about poverty, injustice, and redemption, illustrating how society often denies freedom to the many while protecting the few.The Dispossessed by Ursula K. Le Guin A philosophical sci-fi novel that contrasts two societies — one of shared struggle, one of privilege — asking what true freedom looks like.Native Son by Richard Wright Examines systemic oppression and how society’s structure of privilege can trap both the powerful and the powerless in cycles of fear and control.
Transcribe →#30 - The Richest Treasure: Living with Dignity in a World of Masks
Apr 18, 202500:13:15Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Builders of the Mystic Circle podcast, host Brother Jeremy Castle unpacks the concept of personal dignity, drawing inspiration from the impactful words of Jackie Robinson. The episode highlights the immense value of staying true to oneself, maintaining personal dignity, and the cost of compromising one's individuality under societal pressure. Exploring the liberating power of choosing authenticity over pretense, the podcast underscores the role of continuous growth in our journey of personal authenticity. It reflects on Jackie Robinson's dignified struggle against adversity and the transformative influence of personal dignity in shaping his legacy. The discussion moves towards practical advice for incorporating personal dignity and authenticity into daily life, emphasizing honest interaction, boundary setting and self-reflection. Brother Jeremy concludes the episode by encouraging listeners to prioritize self-respect over external validation and to honor their richest treasure—their personal dignity.Suggested books:I Never Had It Made by Jackie Robinson In his own words, Robinson tells the story of breaking baseball’s color barrier—not just with skill, but with unwavering dignity. This autobiography reveals the emotional cost of staying true to oneself in the face of hatred, and the inner strength required to refuse to live a lie.Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates A modern reflection on dignity, struggle, and selfhood in the face of societal pressure, written with raw honesty and poetic strength.Letters to a Young Poet by Rainer Maria Rilke Encourages the reader to look inward, be patient with growth, and live life with honesty and dignity through times of uncertainty.Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston A story of a woman’s journey to find her voice and self-worth in a society that constantly tries to shape her.Meditations by Marcus Aurelius A stoic guide to inner strength, self-discipline, and living according to one’s values in a chaotic world.
Transcribe →#29 - Uneasy Peace: Living with the Tension of Conditional Love
Apr 12, 202500:05:52Tap to summarizeIn this thought-provoking episode of "Builders of the Mystic Circle," Brother Jeremy Castle takes listeners on a reflective journey exploring the concept of love and the courage it takes to let go. Using metaphors and a potent quote from Robert Jones Jr., the podcast underpins the profound significance of acceptance and true love, particularly against the backdrop of damaging prejudice within close relationships. The episode stresses the importance of speaking out against harmful beliefs rather than maintaining a hurtful silence. Jeremy advocates for self-love and the hard truth of letting go as an act of self-preservation and protection. He further assures those who aren't ready or able to leave toxic situations, encouraging them to construct safe spaces within themselves until they're ready to step out. Jeremy encourages remembering one's worth and the necessity to voice out in matters that matter. He closes with an inspirational charge for listeners to choose truth, love, and liberty, one brave step at a time.Suggested books:Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents by Isabel Wilkerson A powerful examination of the unspoken caste system in America and how it shapes our lives and relationships.Braving the Wilderness by Brené Brown Discusses the journey of standing alone when you don’t feel like you belong, and how to stay true to yourself while seeking connection.All About Love by bell hooks A deep exploration of what love means, how it’s often confused with control or tolerance, and what real love looks like.The Color Purple by Alice Walker A story of transformation, self-worth, and choosing love that affirms rather than oppresses.The Chosen by Chaim Potok Set in a Hasidic Jewish community, this novel explores themes of familial expectation, personal belief, and emotional separation—even from those closest to you.
Transcribe →#28 - Echoes from the Mountaintop: Small Acts, Big Impact
Apr 4, 202500:04:58Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Builders of the Mystic Circle podcast, Brother Jeremy Castle inspires listeners to reflect on how individual silent contributions shape the world. Taking example from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s final speech, the episode explores the grand design that everyone is part of, emphasizing the importance of both individual and community actions. Drawing parallels to unthinkable acts of kindness and courage to unseen roots of an oak tree, Brother Castle illuminates the profound influence everyone can have. The podcast episode ends with a motivational call for listeners to keep building towards a better future that we may not witness ourselves, but for the generations yet to come, urging us to be more caring and just in the present moment.Suggested books:Strength to Love by Martin Luther King, Jr. A powerful collection of sermons that echo Dr. King’s belief in love, justice, and moral courage.The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson A masterful narrative about the Great Migration, showing how ordinary people’s choices built a better future.A Paradise Built in Hell by Rebecca Solnit Explores how communities come together in times of crisis, proving that everyday people shape the future.Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela Mandela’s autobiography, illustrating patience, perseverance, and building for the next generation.A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens A classic story of sacrifice and unseen heroism in times of great change.
Transcribe →#27 - Revenge, Forgiveness, or Ignoring: The Choice That Defines You
Mar 28, 202500:04:21Tap to summarizeIn the latest episode of the Builders of the Mystic Circle podcast, Brother Jeremy Castle provides a profound insight into dealing with difficult people, drawing inspiration from Albert Einstein's words. Highlighting the destructiveness of revenge, he underscores its tendency to stunt individual growth and cloud judgment. In contrast, he champions forgiveness as an act of strength and self-liberation from resentment, even while acknowledging the necessary place of personal boundaries. He also discusses the intelligence of choosing to ignore some conflicts, viewing them as a drain on personal resources and unnecessary distractions from individual passions and goals. Throughout, Brother Castle encourages listeners to respond intentionally to challenging situations and difficult people, reclaiming control over their lives and refraining from being defined by others' behavior. They are urged to lean on supportive communities, echoing Einstein's sentiment that strength lies not in revenge, but in forgiveness and the wisdom to ignore.Suggested books:The Art of Happiness by Dalai Lama and Howard Cutler Offers insights on navigating life’s difficulties with compassion and inner peace.Daring Greatly by Brené Brown Explores how vulnerability and courage shape resilience and help overcome negative experiences.Meditations by Marcus Aurelius Stoic reflections on how to respond to difficult people and maintain personal integrity.Boundaries: When to Say Yes, How to Say No to Take Control of Your Life by Henry Cloud and John Townsend Provides strategies for setting healthy boundaries while maintaining emotional strength.East of Eden by John Steinbeck A profound exploration of human nature, forgiveness, and the consequences of resentment.
Transcribe →#26 - The Builders of the Mystic Circle and the Fight Against Foolishness
Mar 21, 202500:07:12Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Builders of the Mystic Circle podcast, Brother Jeremy Castle discusses the rise of stupidity and the decline of critical thinking in our society. He distinguishes stupidity from ignorance and argues that stupidity is a choice. He further criticizes the internet for becoming a breeding ground for misinformation and fostering uncritical thinking. Drawing on the writings of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Brother Castle emphasizes how stupidity combined with authority can be manipulated to instigate atrocities and divides in society. The podcast ends with strategies for combating stupidity and promoting critical thinking, including asking questions, acknowledging personal biases, fact-checking information before sharing, and committing oneself to lifelong learning.Suggested books:Amusing Ourselves to Death by Neil Postman Examines how media, particularly television, has eroded public discourse and critical thinking.1984 by George Orwell A dystopian novel about propaganda, thought control, and the dangers of blind allegiance to authority.The Demon-Haunted World: Science as a Candle in the Dark by Carl Sagan A passionate defense of skepticism, scientific inquiry, and the need for rational thought.Brave New World by Aldous Huxley A vision of a society where distraction and comfort replace deep thought and individuality.Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury A cautionary tale about the suppression of knowledge and the dangers of an uninformed society.
Transcribe →#25 - The Silent Threat: How Indifference Shapes Our World
Mar 14, 202500:04:24Tap to summarizeIn the latest episode of the Builders of the Mystic Circle podcast, host Brother Jeremy Castle uncovers the damaging effects of indifference on society and the necessity of caring to build a better world. Inspired by Elie Wiesel's words and experiences, Brother Castle emphasizes the consequences of indifference, which he describes as a silence that allows cruelty to thrive. The discussion ties Wiesel's personal experiences from Auschwitz to the broader implication that indifference fosters an environment where the cruelest acts are permissible. Brother Castle reflects on the decay of societal values when indifference becomes common. He suggests that combating indifference requires consistent effort, memory, awareness, and acts of kindness and love. The episode ends with a hopeful call to action, urging listeners to actively resist indifference and contribute to building a better world.Suggested books:Night by Elie WieselA firsthand account of Wiesel’s experiences in Nazi concentration camps, illustrating the dangers of indifference and the loss of humanity.The Banality of Evil by Hannah ArendtExplores how ordinary people become complicit in great atrocities through indifference and obedience to systems of oppression.On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century by Timothy SnyderA concise yet impactful analysis of how authoritarianism rises when people remain passive, using global historical examples.
Transcribe →#24 - The Pit and the Stone: When Consequences Come Full Circle
Mar 7, 202500:05:10Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Builders of the Mystic Circle podcast, host Brother Jeremy Castle draws from Proverbs 26:27 to discuss the ancient principles of consequence and fate. He expounds a wisdom that is akin to a universal law, where actions in life invariably find their way back to the doer, thus highlighting the certainty of consequences. Drawing from ancient writings and historical instances, he throws light on the illusory belief of being immune to the repercussions of one’s actions due to power, wealth, or status. As builders, Jeremy encourages listeners to wisely craft their world, responsibly acknowledging that every harm has an inevitable consequence and every act has a return. He emphasizes building with care, wisdom, and understanding that the world mirrors what we give it—a truth unchangeable by power, privilege, or illusion.Suggested books:Just Mercy by Bryan StevensonThis book highlights the failures of the justice system and the interconnected nature of injustice. It shows how ignoring suffering and denying fairness leads to broader societal harm.To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper LeeThis novel explores themes of justice, privilege, and moral responsibility. It shows how those who perpetuate injustice eventually face the consequences, even if they believe themselves to be untouchable.The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar WildeThis novel vividly portrays the consequences of selfishness and moral corruption. Dorian believes he can escape the consequences of his actions, only to be destroyed by the very choices he thought would only harm others.
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