g

Discover the Stories of Greco-Roman Legends

The subjects are statesmen, generals, orators and founders. The stakes are the future of Western Civilization. Join us as we explore their legacies, and uncover their bloody, tragic and sometimes humorous stories.

ListenLearn more
Plutarch's books are displayed in the background with four prominent Greco-Roman busts, symbolizing classical influence.
Latest Episode
104

104 - Heroic Struggles in Vietnam — with Doyle Glass

A conversation with Doyle Glass, author of Swift Sword, The True Story of the Marines of MIKE 3/5 in Vietnam, 4 September 1967.  Intro Story featuring BlackJack Mulligan. In this episode: Mastering Fear in Combat, A lawyer's journey to becoming an artist and an author, The ambush begins: "The tree line stood up", Clear headed leadership of Lieutenant Murray, The heroic Father Capodanno, Larry Peters' Sacrifice to Save His Squad, The powerful psychology of accepting death in combat

"With the Old Breed" war classic by Eugene Sledge

Man of Mystery Robert Benoist

February 13, 2025
Episode Length:
81:28
Open volume of Plutarch's Lives, showing the first page with an illustration of adult-sized angels on one side and large title text on the other.

Unlock the Wisdom of the Ancients

Twenty years ago I discovered Plutarch's Parallel Lives, the most influential biographies ever written-admired by leaders, creators, soldiers, and thinkers for nearly 2,000 years.

Never before had they been rendered in audio in a clear, easy-to-listen format.

Since then l've made it my life's work to unlock the lessons embedded within them by bringing them to life in crisp podcast episodes.


Subscribe Now
All Episodes
99

On Progress : Against Stoicism

Episode Length:
22 MINUTES
November 6, 2024
98

Gallic Wars 8: Finale

Episode Length:
38 MINUTES
October 21, 2024
97

Gallic Wars 7: Vercingetorix and the Great Revolt

Episode Length:
115 MINUTES
September 30, 2024

History Contains Power

My name is Alex Petkas, and in The Cost of Glory, I present you with the best stories, analyses and takeaways, from the greatest and most influential figures from Greco-Roman antiquity.

Subscribe Now

What Others Are Saying

We’re all thinking about the Roman Empire...

If you haven’t heard it yet, I encourage you to give a listen to @costofglory’s podcast on Spotify. He’s doing very good work on Plutarch and Xenophon.

Athens_Stranger

Proudly the top 0.5% fan of @costofglory, who expanded my ancient history knowledge. Man, there's a lot to learn, but I'm happy to learn as much as I can

ElijahJJJOlson

The Attenborough of History @costofglory

If you haven't heard you need to hop on this train because you're missing out

ktor_h

I absolutely love the podcast!!! I’ve been listening thru for the last few weeks. It’s so heartening to see these stories being put out in such an accessible and gripping way. And new too! I remember just a few years ago was impossible to find audio/internet sources!

psalmist

Gallic Wars I - Caesar's Chance by @costofglory

Far too few know about this excellent history and ancient wisdom show.

FarmerKulak

The Attenborough of History @costofglory

If you haven't heard you need to hop on this train because you're missing out

ktor_h

Cost of Glory is so f'ing amazing.

radiolooper

Your story telling ability is amazing!!! Have listened to every episode 2x now.  I keep getting more and more! Best podcast out!

JStark for the win!

As a fan of Hardcore History, Martrymade, and History On Fire podcasts - THE COST OF GLORY podcast with @costofglory is worthy of your blood 🩸⚔️

.thejass.

Thank you for all your hard work. Cost of Glory is such a . great source of history and entertainment 🎉

@JasonMcHughq7g

I think you give Morgan Freeman beat for the perfect voice for a narrator! I wih you would read the Bible for audio tapes!!

@samright4661

This podcast is easily one of the best I’ve come across. I would even go so far as it’s better than the Rome podcast by Mike Duncan

@benmills7731

Just discovered this channel and on part 3, love it just love it thank you

@Craig-15q

Great episode an fantastic quality all round. New subscriber here.

@tiptoptechno

6k subs? love this guy..

@Majeerteenia

Hey, the visual are getting way better!

@Stoic_Zoomer

Excellent production!

@tiptoptechno

Join a vibrant community passionate about history and the zeal of ancient heroes.

The Rostra

Named after the speaker's platform in Rome, The Rostra is an online oratorical gymnasium, for clocking in weekly speaking workouts with fellow orators.

If you are dedicated to cultivating eloquence and a life of action, check out our paid community.
Join

Austin Leadership Retreat

Participate in live events and retreats for immersive learning experiences.

Connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for history. January 23-26, 2025. Life changing experiences. Lifetime bonds.
Explore