What does it mean to reach for the heights? To pursue triumph so relentlessly that you lose sight of the world below? In this episode, I explore these questions through the lens of my original poem, The Heights, a visceral reflection on ambition, glory, and the ultimate cost of climbing too high.
Join me as I read and unpack this poetic journey—a life lived richly, yet marked by the bittersweet realities of striving for more. From the thrill of rarefied peaks to the alienation of leaving humanity behind, The Heights captures the duality of human ambition: the beauty of striving and the peril of losing touch.
What happens when we can no longer see ourselves in others? When the air grows thin and principles lose their grounding? Are the heights we chase worth the sacrifice, or do they lead us to a place we can never return from?
Tune in for a haunting exploration of life’s climb—its glory, its loneliness, and its inevitable reckoning. This episode will leave you pondering your own journey and the price of reaching for the sky.
Visit me at my website: https://www.storiesofshadowandflame.com/
Follow me on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Nick-Oliveri/author/B09NLBSHV5?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1737603747&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true
TikTok: @booksbynickoliveri
X: @faultyharb
Instagram: @nick0liveri
Host
Nick Oliveri
Popular Podcasts
Are You A Charlotte?
In 1997, actress Kristin Davis’ life was forever changed when she took on the role of Charlotte York in Sex and the City. As we watched Carrie, Samantha, Miranda and Charlotte navigate relationships in NYC, the show helped push once unacceptable conversation topics out of the shadows and altered the narrative around women and sex. We all saw ourselves in them as they searched for fulfillment in life, sex and friendships. Now, Kristin Davis wants to connect with you, the fans, and share untold stories and all the behind the scenes. Together, with Kristin and special guests, what will begin with Sex and the City will evolve into talks about themes that are still so relevant today. "Are you a Charlotte?" is much more than just rewatching this beloved show, it brings the past and the present together as we talk with heart, humor and of course some optimism.
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com