295: Robinson Crusoe, by Daniel Defoe

295: Robinson Crusoe, by Daniel Defoe

Author: A.J. Hanenburg, Graeme Donaldson, and Thomas Magbee February 3, 2026 Duration: 1:00:08
In this episode, we discuss ol' Robinson Crusoe, how he lived on the island, and escaped twenty-eight years later. It's . . . kinda good?

Three friends, A.J. Hanenburg, Graeme Donaldson, and Thomas Magbee, gather for the kind of wide-ranging conversation that happens after a good book or a shared idea. Their Classical Stuff You Should Know podcast is built on the belief that the ancient world isn't a sealed relic but a living conversation that touches everything from art and literature to the deeper questions of faith and philosophy. You’ll hear them explore mythology, history, and classical texts, but always through a lens that feels immediate and accessible. They connect these enduring ideas to the categories that shape our lives, whether that's education, creative arts, or personal spirituality. The tone is less like a lecture and more like joining a discussion among knowledgeable pals who genuinely enjoy unpacking these topics together. This approach makes the podcast a resource for teachers looking for engaging angles and for anyone simply curious about how ancient thoughts on Christianity, ethics, and storytelling still resonate. Each episode feels like an invitation to pull up a chair and think along with them, finding richness in the classical tradition that goes far beyond dusty textbooks.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 100

Classical Stuff You Should Know
Podcast Episodes
261: Montessori [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:03:11
In this episode we play the game of Life, explore notions on education, and interact with each other. But we do these things in a carefully cultivated environment designed to guide our inclinations toward growth and impr…
259: Genghis Khan 4: Anda Undone! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:00:36
In this episode, the Khan sees his most cherished relationships deteriorate. Anda? Nah. More like dead.
258: Plantagenets 12: Three Kings in Three Months [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:01:10
This is the penultimate episode of Graeme's series on the war of the roses. There's only one more. It's the end of an era. I, for one, grieve.
257:  Plantagenets 11: Bleeding to Death from a Broken Heart [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:05:43
Turns out that a king who is good at war sometimes wins wars. Sometimes that means kids beg for their lives. Sometimes that mean someone gets bludgeoned. BUT WE JUST HAVE TO LET THE KING LIVE HIS LIFE OKAY
256: Genghis Khan 3: Loki and the Frat Battle [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:34
In this episode, we see the slow degradation of brotherhood, the lamentable breakdown of relationship. Also in this episode: spine cracking wrestling; young love; beating people up with sticks; and knucklebones, the game…
255: Winnie the Pooh [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 46:40
Where does the Pooh part come from? A swan. That's all the explanation you'll get.
254: Kristin Lavransdatter 2: "I WILL DIE ON THIS HILL" [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:14:10
In this episode, I admit that while I, Graeme, have some good points, A.J. is ultimately right. He's convinced me with the gravity of his intellect couched in both wit and charm. What a great guy, that A.J..
253: Beatrix Potter [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 57:45
In this episode, Thomas walks us through the storied life of Beatrix Potter. We also discuss a bully rabbit.