Chapter 4, v. 34-38 This episode explores how seekers can access transformative spiritual knowledge through the qualities of humility, inquiry, and service. The discussion illuminates how these virtues prepare the soul for true insight, leading to a wisdom that offers unparalleled clarity, dissolves past delusions, and guides one toward inner purit…

This episode explores the importance of intentionally "doing nothing" in today's fast-paced world. It highlights how slowing down fosters spiritual connection, creativity, and well-being, offering space for divine grace and deeper self-awareness. Through personal stories and teachings from mystics like Rumi, listeners are encouraged to embrace stil…

Chapter 4, v. 24-33 Explore the deep spiritual meaning behind Yajna, the ancient practice of offering, and how it can transform not only spiritual practices but also the simple actions of daily life. By recognizing that life itself is self-giving, learn how to integrate everyday experiences into a sacred practice of offering. Discover how offering …

Chapter 4, v. 19-23 This episode delves into the practice of renunciation and its vital role in attaining freedom from the ego's grip. The discussion explores how letting go of self-identification with the false self liberates individuals from negative emotions such as jealousy, anger, and disappointment. Gain practical insights on living a life an…

We reach the end of our voyage, but before we get there we'll meet old friends, deal with friction in the younger generation, and encounter a familiar kind of personal jeopardy for Stephen. After that, all that's left to say is 'thank you' and 'until the next time'.Af Mike & Ian

This episode explores the concept of soul nourishment in a fast-moving world. Starting with an inspirational African proverb, it highlights the importance of slowing down, even when times are most urgent. By sharing stories from the lives of great spiritual leaders like Jesus and Gandhi, we learn how intentional slowing down can bring divine insigh…

Episode 220 is out today - dedicated to our interview with POB biographer Dean King. Discover the story of Dean’s journey to discover more of the real world story behind O’Brian’s genius.Af Mike & Ian

We're still riding along on Anson's famous journey - this time from the viewpoint of the Wager, a ship that was lost fairly early in the last book. The two main characters of The Unknown Shore promise to please Aubrey-Maturin fans even more!Af Mike & Ian

Chapter 4, v. 16-20 Delve into the exploration of what constitutes right action and how it is deeply rooted in intention and motive. This episode unpacks the wisdom of acting with awareness and discernment, understanding the profound difference between actions that liberate and those that bind. Learn how right action can lead to spiritual growth an…

We explore the first of two POB books that could be said to be ‘pre-cursors' to the Aubrey-Maturin canon - The Golden Ocean. Midshipmen, rats, storms, friendships, Irish back-story, shipwreck, disease and action - there’s a lot here to please an Aubrey-Maturin fan!Af Mike & Ian

We're exploring the world of Jane Austen this week, reacting to the 1995 film adaptation of her novel Persuasion. With naval officers, snobbery, hunting, dinners and thwarted love, it might seem familiar ...Af Mike & Ian

Jack and Stephen, homeward bound, head for Madeira to pick up their loves, and maybe a prize. Stephen attempts to recover from his wound, as he and Diana decide where to go from here. With all the surprises in this final chapter, is there a straight path ahead to paradise? Ch 11.Af Mike & Ian

Chapter 4, v. 14-15 Uncover the essence of divine action and how it remains untainted and free from desire. Krishna's message reveals that actions aligned with higher consciousness and free of egoic motivation lead to liberation. This episode will guide you in understanding how to cultivate this state of being in everyday activities, fostering spir…

In Calcutta, Jack is drowning in good wishes but still short of a dowry for Sophie. Canning acts like Jack's good friend, despite their history. Stephen calls on Diana for an answer to his marriage proposal, and things take a dramatic turn in the Indian heat. Ch 10.Af Mike & Ian

Linois's squadron returns, and Jack's battle plans are tested, as he fights the Surprise with most of his officers and many of his gunners loaned out. Success may depend on the Surprise sacrificing herself, and we end with Dryden's poetry and Stephen's commentary ringing in our ears. Ch 9 Part 2.Af Mike & Ian

The Surprise catches the China Fleet - which delights everyone but Stephen. Later, Surprise sees a less hospitable squadron. Jack rises to the occasion, balancing his desire for glory and action against his duty. Stephen provides a commentary on the human race as Jack falls asleep, and we wait for morning. Ch 9 Part 1.…

Chapter 4, v. 13-14 This episode takes a fresh look at the teachings on life roles, often misunderstood as a commentary on caste division. By examining the spiritual wisdom offered, these teachings reveal the importance of finding our true place and purpose in life, aligning our actions with our inherent nature and skills, and understanding the uni…

This week we’re reposting our Crossing The Line special about children as characters in the O’Brian canon. Special thanks to our friend Steve Morris for joining the conversation. Back to HMS Surprise next week!Af Mike & Ian

Surprise and her new first Lt sail for Kampong. We dip into Protestant theology, spy possible action from the Lubber’s Hole, see a relic of Jack's youth and deal with the envoy's health - punctuated by classical literature, blue water sailing, optimism and reality. Ch 8.Af Mike & Ian

Stephen visits Diana alone at night, leading to wildly unexpected happenings and appearances. Diana, Dil and Stephen are compared, while there’s shocking news from the ship, and even more shocking news ashore. Ch 7 Part 2.Af Mike & Ian

Chapter 4, v. 11-12 Join us as we examine the sacred exchange between soul and the divine. This episode highlights the importance of devotion and the generous response of divine grace. Through heartfelt devotion, learn how our unique ways of seeking are met with the divine presence, guiding us toward spiritual fulfillment.…

Stephen wanders a Bombay beyond his imagination, finds a new particular friend, philosophizes on the holy, the human, the meaning of Sophie's letters, and what he and Jack should do for love. Ch 7 Part 1Af Mike & Ian

The prophesied blow ensues with monstrous waves. Stephen schools Jack on stoicism. There's more poetry as Bonden's writing advances, pistol practice, more ominous thoughts on marriage and relationships, Biblical foreshadowing, and a sea snake stacked with serpentine symbolism. Ch 6 (part 2)Af Mike & Ian

Babbington comes to the rescue. There's solar healing for Stephen. Bad news for rats, midshipmen and albatrosses; good news for sloth fans everywhere. We also peruse French poetry and thoughts on marriage. Ch 6 (part 1)Af Mike & Ian

A new ship, officers, and crew together in a metaphorical crucible. Characters new and old encounter a very different kind of action. We examine sea officers, authority and humanity; men and marriage, various rats, light and colors, and swimming the Hellespont. Ch 5.Af Mike & Ian

Surprise! A celebration of new things arising! A masterful chapter of names: of a book, of a curious English parish near Mapes, of a dead French agent, of a new Naval chief, and of course of a ship. Ch 4.Af Mike & Ian

Chapter 4, v. 7-10 Explore Krishna's timeless wisdom as he discusses his eternal manifestations and the cyclic nature of divine intervention. This episode delves into the profound concepts of righteousness and the eternal duty of the divine to restore balance. Discover how these teachings are relevant in the grand cosmic scheme and our personal spi…

Jack struggles with who to trust and how to attempt to rescue Stephen. We examine, warfare, honour and the needs of the greater good, while along the way literature’s greatest male friendship is affirmed. Ch 3.Af Mike & Ian

Ever contemplated the real essence of love? Divine love permeates every aspect of existence, inviting us to rise above mere self-interest. It's the silent call to awaken our hearts to something profound and world-changing. In this episode, discover how divine love leads to fulfillment. Explore prayers, spiritual practices, and stories that inspire …

We’re on short commons blockading Toulon. Jack writes home about bloody action and the Lively's crew, Killick comes to life, and an unexpected night meeting on a beach has our plants starting to pay off. Ch 2.Af Mike & Ian

A new First Lord and Admiralty Board shake up the story and endanger Stephen. There's a secondhand Diana update, Jack is nowhere to be seen, and Stephen sets off on a new mission, which worries Sir Joseph. Ch 1.Af Mike & Ian

Chapter 4, v. 4-7 This episode explores the intricate relationship between a guru and a disciple, where the ultimate lesson lies in realizing that everything we seek is already within us. This episode discusses how Krishna's teachings to Arjuna serve as a metaphor for our own spiritual journey, emphasizing the importance of friendship and devotion …

Ian and Mike celebrate the show’s bicentenary by answering listener questions, with help from our Patreons and from special guest Steve Morris. We discuss battle scenes, characters, WW2 exploits, Aubreyisms, friendship and of course Star Trek.Af Mike & Ian

Chapter 4, v. 1-4 Dive into a journey of discovery with this inspiring episode, exploring the profound conversations central to yoga's age-old wisdom. As we ponder Krishna's mystical teachings, we are invited to confront the universal struggle of spiritual forgetfulness, delve into the concept of the 'I Am', and pierce through the veils of time to …

The Lively goes into action. Jack receives surprising insights into Stephen's secret life and Admiralty connections. After weather disruption, a tense negotiation and Jack refusing to touch a belaying pin, things blow up as Post Captain comes to an end, or maybe a beginning. Ch 14.Af Mike & Ian

A deeply philosophical Stephen seems an unsuccessful matchmaker. Jack designs a "Love Boat" interior. There's an intelligence mission, a copycat Nelson plan, opera, grace, virtue, music, words, art, scent, lots of rain, and plenty of references - this episode has it all! Ch 14 part 1.Af Mike & Ian

As we continue the journey through the 'Love Loves Love' series, we delve into the essence of Divine Love and the transformative power of letting go. This episode reflects on the vibrant, blooming journey within, drawing parallels between the care of a garden and our inner lives. Yogacharya shares insights from a pilgrimage that offers profound les…

Just as everything turned around last chapter - get ready for them to turn again! In this short chapter, Jack tries to work his way on the Lively. Stephen makes a stunning find ashore. And Jack learns why you have to be careful what you wish for. Ch 13.Af Mike & Ian

Jack learns his fate from the Admiralty and faces new challenges, including Stephen. We learn about bees, ideal friendship, crack ships, leadership, dog watches and the reason behind the book's title, as the story takes an unexpected turn. Ch 12.Af Mike & Ian

Amid high tension between Jack & Stephen, Stephen makes a momentous decision and Jack does not. Circumstances force Jack to step up in his leadership role. He tries to sell the crew on their mission - Everything goes well until it doesn't. Things get crazy and Jack goes for broke until things actually break, and he ends in a large pool of blood. Ch…

As we continue the journey through the 'Love Loves Love' series, delving into the intrinsic nature of divine love as the foundation of life. This episode guides listeners through the process of opening up to love's omnipresence, revealing how the mind can either unlock or block the flow of this sacred energy. Through personal anecdotes and spiritua…

This week we're looking forward to talking with author Steve Maffeo about the world of naval intelligence, its portrayal in the O'Brian canon, the connection to Lord Nelson, and also a sneaky look ahead at events that are coming up in the closing chapters of Post Captain.Af Mike & Ian

Stephen sees Diana and Sophie before leaving on his secret mission. Jack returns from the Baltics. Heneage Dundas asks Stephen to deliver a warning to Jack, and things get really bad - before they get even worse. Ch 10.Af Mike & Ian

Chapter 3, v. 40-43 Dive deep into the heart of spiritual growth with this episode that illuminates the secret to living beyond the shackles of desire. Discover how understanding the intricate dance between our senses, mind, intellect, and soul can lead to true freedom from sorrow. Uncover strategies to conquer the hidden desires that derail us fro…

Jack assesses the crew, has an opportunity to re-rig the Polychrest, and displays an unusual talent. We learn about new sails, Stephen's particular skills and an old enemy. Jack has another opportunity to come through for Admiral Harte. Ch 9.Af Mike & Ian

Chapter 3, v. 36-39 Journey through the veils of desire that obscure clarity and wisdom, like smoke masks a fire. This episode examines the metaphorical smoke, dust, and coverings that shroud our intellect, offering strategies to polish away the residues of past actions and awaken clearer discernment. Embrace the practices that bring forth the ligh…

We learn more about Jack, Stephen, Sophie, and Diana's feelings. Tension mounts between Stephen and Jack. There's an intelligence mission, a notion of the sublime, a grand dinner with three rivals, more trouble with Harte, and Jack ashore. Ch 8.Af Mike & Ian

Chapter 3, v. 33-35 This episode explores the Bhagavad Gita's teachings on embracing unique nature and svadharma, highlighting the journey toward authentic living and the fulfillment of divine purpose. It delves into how an individual's blend of qualities and experiences shapes their path, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and expressing …

Stephen joins the Polycrest and wonders about his relationship with Jack. Pullings returns and celebrates his promotion. There are perils afloat, a run-in with debt collectors, more bear references, disputes over discipline, mutterings of mutiny, and the return of Admiral Harte. Ch 7.Af Mike & Ian

Delve into the transformative teachings of divine love as the foundation for fulfilling relationships. This episode uncovers the mystic wisdom that love, while it may have a beginning in our conscious experience, knows no end, embodying the eternal, ever-present nature of our true selves. Through poetic insights and practical guidance, you are invi…