Beyond the Walled Garden Podcast
Welcome to the “Beyond the Walled Garden Podcast” hosted by Joel Austin. This podcast features conversations with artists, philosophers, occultists, scientists, content creators and more each aimed at helping the listener break out of the walled garden of modernity.
Browse all episodes below and feel free to reach out at any time via the contact page.
Inside Modern Policing: Patrol Commander on Police Reform from Within
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Filmmaking, Identity & Resistance: El on Crafting Safe Spaces
In this episode of Beyond the Walled Garden, Joel Austin sits down with El, a non-binary filmmaker from Atlanta, Georgia, to discuss creativity, identity, and resistance during politically turbulent times. El shares insights about their film projects including “Cam Girl” and “Going Native,” while offering wisdom on how to create art with limited resources. The conversation explores how marginalized creators can carve out safe spaces, build community, and maintain artistic practices despite feeling under attack from multiple fronts.
Ancient Philosophy for Today: Why Epicureanism Deserves Your Attention
In this episode of Beyond the Walled Garden, I’m joined by Anthony David Vernon, adjunct professor of philosophy at St. Thomas University and Miami Dade College, to explore Epicureanism, an ancient Greek philosophy that offers surprising wisdom for our modern struggles. While stoicism dominates social media feeds, Epicureanism provides a refreshing alternative focused on finding pleasure through simplicity, friendship, and the removal of unnecessary pain.
Why Choose an Artistic Life? Filmmaking, Retro Horror & Creativity
In this episode of Beyond the Walled Garden, I speak with indie filmmaker Ashton Livingston about the rewards and challenges of pursuing a creative life through filmmaking. Ashton shares insights from making his 80s-inspired horror comedy “Rat Problem” and discusses how independent films are filling the void left by struggling studio productions.
Remake the Rules: Finding Meaning Amidst Information Overload
In this episode of Beyond the Walled Garden, Joel explores how to navigate our information-rich world with guest Emily Pabst, founder of Remake the Rules. Emily reveals strategies for managing information overload, making better decisions, and finding meaning amid digital chaos. From online dating to business leadership, discover how to use technology as a tool without letting it define your life.
Inside Modern Policing: Patrol Commander on Police Reform from Within
This episode of Beyond the Walled Garden features Diego Zanella, a Patrol Commander in Washington state with over 20 years of policing experience. Diego discusses his mission to reform law enforcement from within by moving away from traditional paramilitary structures toward community-focused service.