The Junto Podcast

E27: Applications of Stoic Philosophies in Daily Life

***CORRECTION- I referenced the book Gift of Fear, I misspoke the author's name, it is Gavin De Becker, NOT David De Becker***
Host Edgar Mills explores Stoic philosophy—through Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius, and Seneca—and shows how self-control, virtue, and resilience can guide modern politics, business, and everyday life.
The episode offers practical applications: focus on what you can control, prioritize integrity over short-term gain, prepare for setbacks, and engage with others calmly and rationally.
It also connects Stoicism to libertarian values and Christianity and closes with four actionable habits: daily reflection, virtue checks, contingency planning, and measured engagement.

E26: Paradox of Constraints: Values to Help You Drive On

Host Edgar Mills explores how constraints — lack of money, regulation, and limited resources — can catalyze creativity, resilience, and purposeful action.Drawing on military experience, libertarian and Christian values, and personal stories about building a shooting range and business, he offers practical advice on realistic optimism, networking, honesty, and adapting to setbacks.

E25: The Value of Life: Reason, Virtue, and the Cost of Violence

Host Edgar Mills examines the value of human life through Stoic philosophy, libertarian principles, and his personal reflections.
The episode explores self-ownership, the non-aggression principle, justified killing versus murder, and how unchecked emotion and identity politics erode trust and moral consistency.
Listeners are encouraged to prioritize reason, virtue, and self-control to build a high-trust society and respect for life.
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E24: From Blackhawk Pilot to Fire Breathing: A Coach’s Bold Path to Mental Wellness

In episode 24 Edgar Mills interviews Pat Towery — a former Army Blackhawk pilot turned national board‑certified health and wellness coach, yoga trainee, boxing announcer, and professional fire breather. They discuss Pat’s work with fraternity chapters at Georgia Tech, his approach to building wellness committees, experiential workshops, and the importance of genuine relationships in mental health care.
The conversation covers Pat’s military-to-civilian transition, VA integrated care, coaching methods (motivational interviewing, AARs), and how unconventional tools — like fire performance and shared challenges — foster resilience, purpose, and community among young men.
Pat Towery Leadership & Wellness      Pat Towery Fire Entertainment

E23: Urban Self-Reliance & Sustainable Living

Episode 23 explores urban and suburban sustainable living through the lens of Benjamin Franklin’s values: self-reliance, frugality, creativity, and practical problem-solving. Host Edgar Mills contrasts historical self-sufficiency with modern sustainability and consumer culture.
The episode offers actionable ideas—composting, balcony gardens, biking, energy conservation, community barter and tool-sharing—and highlights voluntary community efforts like the Great Create DIY Freedom Festival (https://thegreatcreate.org/) to build alternative networks and greater independence.

E22: When Violence Becomes the Only Answer: Preparing Schools, Churches, and Workplaces

Host Edgar Mills examines recent school and church attacks to explain types of threats (internal vs. external), critiques the standard "run, hide, fight" advice, and offers practical steps organizations can take to reduce risk.The episode covers preparation: threat assessment, simple SOPs and rehearsals, controlled access, technical monitoring, trained or designated security (including careful consideration for arming staff), and basic medical response to save lives.

E21: High-Trust Society? Can America Rebuild Faith in Institutions?

Host Edgar Mills explores the concept of a high-trust society, comparing America to Nordic countries and examining historical breaches of public trust — from government programs like MKUltra and Tuskegee to economic crises and surveillance concerns. He discusses how trust affects innovation, governance, and daily life, and urges listeners to cultivate trust locally while demanding accountability from institutions.
Consider donating to the Help A Homie Emergency Fund.
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E20: The Unexpected Legacy of 'Have Gun, Will Travel'

Welcome to Episode 20 of the Junto podcast, where host Edgar Mills delves into the compelling depth of the classic TV Western 'Have Gun, Will Travel.' Discover how this trailblazing show, which aired from 1957 to 1963, skillfully merged traditional Western action with cerebral and ethical explorations that were ahead of its time. In this episode, we explore the character Paladin, portrayed by Richard Boone, and his unique approach to conflicts, showcasing how timeless themes from the series resonate with today's social and political environments.
Join us as we examine the significant themes of discrimination, marginalization, and the nuanced ethical dilemmas faced by Paladin, reflecting on how these issues continue to persist in modern times. We discuss the profound influence of writer Gene Roddenberry and how the show subtly championed the rights of the oppressed, while drawing parallels to contemporary challenges, including discussions on AI, surveillance, and personal freedoms.
With insights tying into more recent media influences, this episode invites you to rethink the ways classic narratives can inform and inspire our current societal discourse. Tune in and rediscover the intellectual legacy of 'Have Gun, Will Travel' in shaping the thoughtful entertainment landscape we navigate today.
Find the show on the Pluto streaming service.

E19: Perception vs Reality: Unraveling Ancient Philosophies and Modern Truths

Join host Edgar Mills in this thought-provoking episode of the Junto Podcast, where we delve into the intricate world of perception versus reality. Discover the philosophical foundations of popular phrases like "perception is reality" and "living my truth," exploring their origins and implications in modern society. We examine notable philosophers from Protagoras to Nietzsche and their views on reality and objective truth. Engage in a critical discussion about how these ideas play out in contemporary issues such as politics, media, and personal identity. Whether it's the historical roots or today's social impact, this episode invites you to challenge your own perceptions and consider the balance between subjective views and objective facts.

E18: Analyzing Law Enforcement Training Deficiencies with Ricky Robinson

In this episode of the Junto Podcast, host Edgar Mills engages in an enlightening conversation with Ricky Robinson, a veteran officer with over 25 years of experience in law enforcement training. They dive into the current state of police training, discussing both deficiencies and strengths with a focus on lethal firearms training. Edgar contrasts traditional training methods with special operations principles known as 'SOF Truths,' emphasizing their relevance to modern law enforcement.
The discussion highlights the importance of humans over hardware and quality over quantity, arguing for a smaller, better-trained force. Ricky shares insights from his current role at Georgia Northwestern Technical College, outlining the future of police training with an aim to enhance officers' skills, judgment, and decision-making capabilities.
The episode also delves into cultural shifts within law enforcement and the growing need for robust selection processes and continuous training to foster a culture of high performance. Edgar and Ricky put forth actionable solutions to improve current training standards, featuring topics such as active shooter responses, the efficacy of defensive tactics, and the critical impact of mindset and fitness on police efficiency and public safety.