Episode Details

The Third Man by Graham Greene
---
Exploring Graham Greene’s postwar classic, The Third Man, Jesan Sorrells and Ryan J. Stout unravel the psychology of unreliable narrators, leadership in times of nihilism, and the timeless challenge of ethical decision-making amid a world of grifters and cons. They dive into Greene’s cinematic writing style, his nuanced character portrayals, and how postwar Vienna mirrors our own era of skepticism and manipulation. The conversation draws out practical leadership lessons—particularly the need for sincerity and humility—in a landscape shaped by both history and human nature.

• Book Title: The Third Man
• Author: Graham Greene
• Guests: Jesan Sorrells (host), Ryan J. Stout (guest).

---
Time-Stamped Overview
---
00:00 "The Myth of Modern Nihilism."

07:55 Graham Greene's Mastery of Characterization.

12:38 "Relatable Characters and the Appeal of Dark Humor."

20:30 "Graham Greene's Cinematic Legacy."

24:03 "Post-War Struggles and Black Markets."

31:58 Post-War Deals, Distrust, and Vienna.

34:01 "Vienna's Loss and Legacy in The Third Man."

39:21 "Friendship, Loneliness, and Keen Observation."

48:00 "Observations, Language, and Hidden Motives."

54:59 "AI Scams: Bots and Deception."

59:01 "Children, Leadership, Ethics, and Modern Challenges."

01:04:17 "Making Others Feel Heard & Valued."

01:06:28 "Critiquing the 'Citizen of the World' Ideal."

01:12:01 "Finding Meaningful and Spiritual Connections."

01:18:18 "Harry Lime’s Iconic Ferris Wheel Scene."

01:26:27 "Recognizing Transformation Through Self-Love."

01:29:33 "The Importance of Open-Minded Humility."

01:37:47 "Moral Choices, Lost Knowledge, and Invention."

01:42:29 Defending Free Speech and Objective Truth.

01:45:51 "Film Versions and Orson Welles Radio."
---
Opening theme composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.
---

• Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!
• Check out the Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!

---