Podcast appearances and mentions of Marcus Aurelius

Nobody likes being criticized. Nobody likes it when someone highlights your mistakes. In Meditations, Marcus Aurelius tries to remind himself that he has the freedom to take correction and criticism. He knew he didn't control what the person said or how they said it, but he did control how he handled it.

Tune in here to this Tuesday's edition of the Brett Winterble Show! Brett kicks off the program by discussing Governor Newton’s leadership and the consequences of his policies, particularly focusing on immigration and public safety. He argues that Newton’s tenure has led to increased strain on public resources, citing rising numbers of undocumented immigrants and associated social challenges. Brett then transitions to broader concerns about civil unrest in major cities, questioning whether the public has come to expect disorder as a norm in politically left-leaning areas. Brett emphasizes individual responsibility and personal agency. Drawing on the Stoic philosophy of Marcus Aurelius, he encourages listeners to reject passivity and take ownership of their lives and futures. He challenges the audience to avoid media-driven fear and distraction, and instead pursue meaningful goals with clarity and urgency. Using the metaphor of “burning the boats,” Brett calls for full commitment to personal and national renewal—insisting that change begins with decisive action and focused intention. Listen here for all of this and more on The Brett Winterble Show! For more from Brett Winterble check out his YouTube channel. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tune in here to this Tuesday's edition of the Brett Winterble Show! Brett kicks off the program by discussing Governor Newton’s leadership and the consequences of his policies, particularly focusing on immigration and public safety. He argues that Newton’s tenure has led to increased strain on public resources, citing rising numbers of undocumented immigrants and associated social challenges. Brett then transitions to broader concerns about civil unrest in major cities, questioning whether the public has come to expect disorder as a norm in politically left-leaning areas. Brett emphasizes individual responsibility and personal agency. Drawing on the Stoic philosophy of Marcus Aurelius, he encourages listeners to reject passivity and take ownership of their lives and futures. He challenges the audience to avoid media-driven fear and distraction, and instead pursue meaningful goals with clarity and urgency. Using the metaphor of “burning the boats,” Brett calls for full commitment to personal and national renewal—insisting that change begins with decisive action and focused intention. Later we’re joined by Beth Troutman to discuss the ongoing national unrest and its media portrayal, particularly in cities like Los Angeles. Beth shares insights from her background in television journalism, reflecting on how coverage often focuses on the most sensational or emotional aspects of protests to drive ratings. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the full human experience behind these events, noting that many peaceful protests and diverse perspectives go underreported. Beth expresses concern about the deepening emotional divide fueled by selective media narratives and social media algorithms. Drawing from her own experience covering the 2016 Charlotte protests, she advocates for more balanced, compassionate storytelling that includes voices from all sides—protesters, police, immigrants, and officials alike. Her call is for truth, empathy, and meaningful dialogue, not just headlines. Troutman’s heartfelt reflections underscore her desire for a more human-centered approach to journalism and public discourse. Listen here for all of this and more on The Brett Winterble Show! For more from Brett Winterble check out his YouTube channel. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on StoicismIn this special episode, co-host Brendan Hogle steps into the spotlight to share his personal Stoic journey — from first discovering The Obstacle is the Way by Ryan Holiday to applying the teachings of Marcus Aurelius during moments of grief, travel, and deep personal challenge.You'll hear how Brendan went from a “passive Stoic” to someone who lives and breathes the practice, especially during the loss of his mother and the unpredictability of life abroad during the pandemic. He also reflects on what Stoicism still teaches him today, which virtue he struggles with most, and why daily practice remains a challenge even after a decade of study.Whether you're new to Stoicism or well along your path, this episode offers practical wisdom, honest reflection, and a reminder that everyone's Stoic story starts somewhere.Do you have a Stoic story to share? We'd love to feature it.https://viastoica.com/stoic-stories/Support the showwww.ViaStoica.comhttps://viastoica.com/stoic-life-coaching/https://viastoica.com/benny-voncken/https://viastoica.com/Brendan-hogle/https://twitter.com/ViaStoicaReach us: info@viastoica.comProduced by: http://badmic.com

We have these desires and aversions, these habits we indulge, these things we let ourselves get away with.

The Via Stoica Podcast: Stoic Quotes SeriesIn this episode of the Stoic Quotes series, we explore a powerful reminder from Marcus Aurelius, found in Meditations, Book 10.16:“To stop talking about what the good man is like, and just be one.”Marcus doesn't leave much room for excuses here. This quote cuts through all pretense and self-image. It challenges us to move from words to action, from theory to practice. Instead of debating virtue, he reminds us to embody it. But what does being “a good man” actually mean in Stoic philosophy? And how can we live that out today?Go to https://viastoica.com/what-is-the-stoic-man, to learn what a true Stoic man is.Join us as we reflect on this sharp directive from the Stoic emperor and discuss practical ways to close the gap between what we say and what we do. Whether you're new to Stoicism or deep in your practice, this episode offers a grounded look at personal integrity, consistency, and moral action.If you're looking for more quotes like this one, visit viastoica.com, where we host hundreds of authentic Stoic sayings, each fully referenced and ready for your own reflections or writing.Browse our collections:https://viastoica.com/stoic-quotes/https://viastoica.com/seneca-quotes/https://viastoica.com/epictetus-quotes/https://viastoica.com/marcus-aurelius-quotes/Make sure to subscribe to the podcast for more Stoic quote breakdowns, regular Tuesday episodes, and guest interviews. If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating. It helps us reach more people interested in practical wisdom.Support the show:www.ViaStoica.comhttps://viastoica.com/stoic-life-coaching/https://viastoica.com/benny-voncken/https://viastoica.com/Brendan-hogle/https://twitter.com/ViaStoicaReach us: info@viastoica.comProduced by: http://badmic.com

The Romans built an empire that reshaped the world through brutal wars, brilliant strategy, and even the power of the pen. From the blood-soaked battlefields to the marble halls of Rome, a few towering figures stand out: Pompey, Scipio, Augustus, Trajan, Marcus Aurelius... but who truly deserves the title of the Greatest Roman of All Time?Many would say Julius Caesar — the bold general who crossed the Rubicon and shattered the Republic. To find out if he truly deserves the title, Dan is joined by renowned Roman historian Dr. Simon Elliott, as they debate Caesar's legacy and weigh him against Rome's other titans.Produced by Mariana Des Forges and edited by Dougal PatmoreYou can now find Dan Snow's History Hit on YouTube! Watch episodes every Friday (including this one) here.Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe.We'd love to hear your feedback - you can take part in our podcast survey here: https://insights.historyhit.com/history-hit-podcast-always-on.You can also email the podcast directly at ds.hh@historyhit.com.

In this episode, I talk with Raymond DiGiuseppe, Professor of Psychology at St. John's University and Director of Professional Education at the Albert Ellis Institute. Professor DiGiuseppe is a renowned figure in the field of cognitive-behavioral therapy, particularly Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT). He's also done extensive work on anger. This is a special episode in which we take a deep dive into the Stoic anger management strategies described in the Meditations of Marcus Aurelius. How valuable are these ancient strategies when viewed from the perspective of modern evidence-based psychotherapy.Stoicism: Philosophy as a Way of Life is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Highlights* The Stoic theory of anger as a “desire for revenge”* Avoid mind-reading: “[When getting offended:] remember that you can't be sure that they are doing wrong, because many actions serve some other purpose. Generally speaking, a great deal of experience is needed before one can confidently express an opinion about what someone else is doing.”* Consider the whole character: “Remember how they behave while eating, while reclining on their couches, and so on, and most importantly how their beliefs leave them no choice, and how they pride themselves on what they do.”* Attribute actions to ignorance rather than malice: “For no soul is voluntarily deprived of the truth and by the same token no soul is voluntarily deprived of the ability to [judge the worth of things properly]. Indeed, people don't like to be called unjust, discourteous, and avaricious, or, in general, to be thought of as someone likely to wrong their neighbors.”* Contemplate impermanence: “When you're too angry or impatient, remember that human life is fleeting and before long all of us will have been laid to rest.”* Cognitive distancing: “Remember that it is not people's actions that disturb us (because their actions are [their own business]), but our opinions of their actions. At any rate, eliminate the judgment that they're doing something hurtful, and be willing to let go of it, and anger comes to an end.”* Anger does us more harm than the things we're angry about: “Remember that we suffer more from getting angry and upset about such things than we do from the things themselves.”* Kindness and other virtues can replace anger: “Remember that kindness is unconquerable if it's genuine, not phony or feigned. After all, what can even the most abusive person in the world do to you if you keep on being kind to him and, if the opportunity arises, gently offer him advice and take the time to show him the error of his ways right when he's trying to do you harm?”* Recognize your own flaws: “Remember that you yourself often do wrong and are no better than them. Even if you refrain from certain kinds of transgressions, you still have the capacity to commit them.”* Do not demand perfection from others: “[And you can accept a tenth gift, from Apollo, the Leader of the Muses:] the proposition that it's insanity to expect flawed men never to do wrong, because that would be desiring the impossible..”* Remember, nature gave you the potential to overcome anger and conflict: “First, remember the various kinds of relationship I have with [others]: we were born to help one another.”* Are there other relevant attitudes that Marcus Aurelius doesn't mention?Links* Profile at St John's University* Profile at the Albert Ellis Institute* Google Scholar ProfileThanks for reading Stoicism: Philosophy as a Way of Life! This post is public so feel free to share it. Get full access to Stoicism: Philosophy as a Way of Life at donaldrobertson.substack.com/subscribe

Cleanthes and Socrates exposed themselves to cold. Marcus Aurelius slept on a hard mattress. Seneca practiced poverty on a regular basis. Why did they do this?

Have you ever woken from a nightmare only to feel deep relief that it wasn't real?In this episode, we explore what Marcus Aurelius and Anne Lamott can teach us about illusion, imagination, and insight—how dreams, fears, and even our thoughts can mislead us, and how journaling and Stoic reflection can help us wake up to deeper clarity and purpose.

Marcus Aurelius (121–180 CE), a Roman emperor and prominent Stoic philosopher, ruled from 161 to 180 CE. As the last of the Five Good Emperors, his reign marked the end of the Pax Romana, a period of relative peace in the Roman Empire. Known for his military campaigns against Parthians and Germanic tribes, he also endured the devastating Antonine Plague. His philosophical reflections, compiled in Meditations, offer insight into Stoic ethics and personal leadership. Marcus was succeeded by his son Commodus, whose rule marked a decline in Rome's stability. His legacy endures in both historical and philosophical contexts.

In the season premiere of Guy Shrink, host Bill Roman welcomes back friend Tim Lusch for a deep dive into why every man should embrace philosophy. This episode explores the concept of living intentionally in a distracted world. Tim shares how a personal crisis at 21, sparked by his father's 20-year affair, led him to question his identity and purpose, finding answers through philosophy and mentorship. Drawing on the insights of Stoic thinkers like Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius, as well as the resilience of figures such as Jim Stockdale, they discuss navigating existential crises, from daily routines to life-altering events. The conversation touches on the suicide of Fandango founder Michael Klein, reflecting on what keeps us grounded. Tim emphasizes the importance of staying off "autopilot" to live fully, offering practical insights on morning routines, self-examination, and learning from literature such as *A Man for All Seasons* and *The Moviegoer*. A compelling call to ask big questions and live with purpose. Connect with us across all platforms here: https://linktr.ee/guyshrink   

Born in 103, he was a philosopher from the Samaritan town of Shechem in Palestine, who had devoted his life to the search for truth, trying many philosophical schools and sources of human wisdom: the Stoics, the Peripatetics, the Pythagoreans and finally the Platonists. One day an old man (whose name and origin are unknown) appeared to him and spoke to him of the Prophets and Apostles who had learned of God not by their own wisdom, but by revelation of God Himself. He read the scriptures and was convinced of the truth of the Faith, but he would not be baptised or call himself a Christian until he had tested all the pagans' arguments against Christianity. To this end he traveled to Rome, where he engaged in debate at philosophical gatherings, impressing all with his wisdom. In Rome he also witnessed the martyrdom of Sts Ptolemy and Lucian; this moved him to write an Apologia for the Christian faith and the Christian people, which he gave to the Emperor Antoninus and the Senate. They were so moved by this document that the Emperor ordered that persecution of Christians should cease.   For the remainder of his life, Justin devoted all his skills to the proclamation of the Gospel and the defense of Christians. To the end of his life, wherever he preached Christ, he always wore his philosopher's garb. In addition to his Apologia, he wrote a number of other learned defenses of the faith.   Eventually he was imprisoned following the false accusations of Crescens, a jealous Cynic philosopher. He died (one source says by beheading, another by poison) in Rome in 167 under the Emperor Marcus Aurelius, successor to Antoninus.

Names in Genesis; How to get back to the Tree of Life; City-states = civil structures; Making laws; Law of Nature; Implied contracts; Questioning your knowledge; Seeking Holy Spirit; Telling whole truth; Lot sitting in the gates of Sodom; Binding of cities; Idol worshipers; Respecters of persons; Freedom from Bondage; Salvation theories; Is Jesus your God?; Biting one another; Symbolic rituals; Prov 3:5 Trust in the Lord, lean NOT ON YOUR OWN UNDERSTANDING; Ps 91; Journey of Abraham trusting in the Lord; "Son of God"; Ruling over other people?; Understanding world events; Genesis 20:1; Zoar; Philistines; Deception leading to bondage; Sons of Jacob or Israel; Changes in the journey; Laws and commandments; Subject to interpretation; Other "gods"?; Surety (for debt) of the people; Bondage of Egypt; Taking disadvantages with benefits; Reattaining freedom; Seeking righteousness; Repentance; Mark of the Beast; Gen 20:8; Trying to thwart evil?; Doing what Jesus said; Deeds; Seeing the whole truth about yourself; Humility; Forgiveness; Charity = love; Fear not!; Debate?; Today's iniquity; Welfare snares; Fleshpots; The role of The Church; Being Doers of The Word; "Kindness"; Abraham's admission; Birth rate; Gen 13:17; Gen 14:7; Enmeshing?; Gerar: Between Kadesh (holy/separate) and Shur?; Know thyself; Born again?; Shur = Fasting, Depriving self of comfort, protection from the world; Social welfare of Rome; Marcus Aurelius; Christening of babies; Pure religion; One-child contract in China; Responsibility for debt; Where is your righteousness?; Depending on faith, hope and charity; Free assembly; Spiritual revelation; "Libera res publica"; Seek the righteousness of God.

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.The Via Stoica Podcast: Stoic Quotes SeriesIn the Stoic Quotes series, we take a look at what the Stoics said and uncover the wisdom they left behind. We look at the famous writings from Epictetus, Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, and more.In this episode, we explore a striking quote from Seneca's Letters to Lucilius, Letter 78:“There are times when even to live is an act of bravery.”Seneca reminds us that courage isn't only found on battlefields or in grand gestures. Sometimes, simply choosing to keep going, through illness, loss, or emotional struggle, is a deeply Stoic act. This letter was written while Seneca was ill himself, showing that resilience in daily life can be one of the greatest forms of bravery.If you're looking for more quotes like this one, visit viastoica.com, where you'll find hundreds of Stoic sayings with full references perfect for study, reflection, or sharing.Stoic Quotes CollectionSeneca QuotesEpictetus QuotesMarcus Aurelius QuotesSubscribe to the podcast for more short quote episodes and regular Tuesday recordings with deeper conversations and interviews. Leave a rating to help us reach more people drawn to living with wisdom and peace.Support the show

What Stoicism Teaches About Legendary Living and Lasting ResilienceIn this episode, I dive deep into the transformative world of Stoicism. Instead of focusing on a single book, I'll take you on an engaging journey through the foundations of Stoicism, sharing its timeless wisdom and how its principles have shaped not only my life, the cornerstone of this podcast, but also everything I do in business and life.You'll learn about the origins of Stoicism, how a shipwrecked merchant named Zeno sparked a movement that has influenced figures from emperors to everyday people. I break down the philosophy's key thinkers like Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and Epictetus, and highlight why their approach to virtue, self-mastery, and resilience can help anyone navigate today's challenges with clarity and purpose.This episode isn't just a history lesson; it's packed with practical Stoic exercises and actionable insights for mastering your mind, managing emotions, and living a life of intention. I also share a range of modern resources, book recommendations, and even personal anecdotes about how Stoicism's principles have helped him embrace adversity, build discipline, and focus on what truly matters.Whether you're new to Stoicism or looking to deepen your understanding, this episode is your invitation to learn, grow, and transform. Stick around for a thoughtful discussion that just might change the way you approach life's obstacles—and help you step closer to Becoming Legendary.Enjoy the episode!YouTube: youtu.be/AqivvS4nG6U Show Notes: TheSocialChameleon.Show/Stoicism You can listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Pocket Casts, Castbox, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, Audible, Substack, or your favorite podcast platform.

Everything we see is a perspective, not the Truth." – Marcus Aurelius. Is this true according to Torah? Source Sheet

Sam Harris speaks with Donald Robertson about Stoicism and the good life. They discuss the relationship between wisdom and virtue, ancient versions of psychotherapy, parallels between Stoicism and Buddhism, practical vs. analytical styles of philosophy, CBT's origins in Stoicism, the difficulty of self-criticism, techniques for reframing upsetting experiences, the lives of Marcus Aurelius and Socrates, the psychological pitfalls of using social media, and other topics. If the Making Sense podcast logo in your player is BLACK, you can SUBSCRIBE to gain access to all full-length episodes at samharris.org/subscribe. Learning how to train your mind is the single greatest investment you can make in life. That's why Sam Harris created the Waking Up app. From rational mindfulness practice to lessons on some of life's most important topics, join Sam as he demystifies the practice of meditation and explores the theory behind it.  

In this week’s episode, Sydnee Faulkner shares her journey from rural Alaska to thriving in fitness, fashion, and medical sales, highlighting the importance of actions over words. Marcus and Sydnee discuss topics such as embracing one's duality, self-love, handling high-pressure situations with grace, the significance of rest and self-care, and the challenges of breaking free from societal expectations. Sydnee also delves into her personal battles with self-image and how overcoming adversity has shaped her mission to inspire and lead others. Episode Highlights: 04:52 Balancing Ambition and Self-Care 10:11 Embracing Authenticity and Overcoming Adversity 23:15 Struggles with Self-Image and Eating Disorders 24:26 Journey to Self-Love and Body Positivity 25:59 Balancing Health and Fitness Goals 26:46 Lessons from Competing and Coaching Sydnee Falkner is dedicated to empowering women to embrace self-love and achieve healthy lifestyles. Her own journey of transformation—both physical and mental—has shaped her passion for helping others. Struggling with body image and self-worth growing up, Sydnee found strength through weight training, nourishing her body, and working with coaches. This process helped her cultivate a strong sense of self and a clear vision for her future. Now, Sydnee’s mission is to guide women, whether they’re just starting or already on their journey, to fall in love with themselves and become the confident, strong individuals they’ve always dreamed of being. Learn more about Syndee and her services here: https://www.sydliana.com/ Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Life inevitably presents challenges that tests your patience. Today's meditation focuses on developing an inner strength and resilience, allowing you to remain calm and steady even amidst external difficulties. You'll explore how to distinguish what is within your control from what is not, and find equanimity in the face of the uncontrollable. Ancient Wisdom Weave: Rooted in Stoic philosophy, particularly the teachings of Marcus Aurelius and Epictetus, on developing inner tranquility and accepting what cannot be changed. THIS WEEK'S THEME: "The Patient Heart: Cultivating Inner Stillness" Welcome to "The Patient Heart: Cultivating Inner Stillness," a 7-part meditation series designed to help you rediscover the profound power and peace found in patience. In a world that often demands instant gratification, true tranquility lies in our ability to wait, to observe, and to trust in the natural unfolding of life. Drawing upon the timeless wisdom of ancient traditions, this series will guide you to cultivate patience not as passive waiting, but as an active, compassionate engagement with the present moment. Each episode offers a unique lens to understand and embody this vital virtue, fostering inner resilience and a deeper connection to the rhythm of existence. YOUR MEDITATION JOURNEY DURING THIS WEEK'S SERIES This is episode 2 of a 7-day meditation series titled, "The Patient Heart: Cultivating Inner Stillness" episodes 3311-3316. Day 1:  Patience Visualization Day 2:  Patience Affirmation: "I unfold with patience, presence, and peace." Day 3:  Patience Breathing Visualization Day 4:  Lotus Mudra for Patience Day 5:  Fourth Chakra focus for Patience Day 6:  Patience flow meditation combining the week's techniques. Day 7:  Weekly review meditation and closure. WEEKLY CHALLENGE: The Pause Pivot Challenge THE PAUSE (Awareness): When you feel that familiar tug of impatience (the urge to rush, frustration, annoyance, a sigh, tapping your foot, etc.), immediately internally say to yourself: "Aha! A Patience Opportunity!" Take one deep, intentional breath. Notice the sensations in your body and mind without judgment. This is your "Pause." THE PIVOT (Choice): After that single breath, consciously choose a patient response, even if it's small. This isn't about solving the problem instantly, but shifting your internal state. SHARE YOUR MEDITATION JOURNEY WITH YOUR FELLOW MEDITATORS   Let's connect and inspire each other! Please share a little about how meditation has helped you by reaching out to me at Mary@SipandOm.com or better yet -- direct message me at https://www.instagram.com/sip.and.om. We'd love to hear about your meditation ritual!  SUBSCRIBE, LEAVE A REVIEW + TAKE OUR SURVEY SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss a single episode. Consistency is the KEY to a successful meditation ritual. SHARE the podcast with someone who could use a little extra support. I'd be honored if you left me a podcast review. If you do, please email me at Mary@sipandom.com and let me know a little about yourself and how meditation has helped you. I'd love to share your journey to inspire fellow meditators on the podcast! SURVEY: Help us get to know more about how best to serve you by taking our demographics survey: https://survey.libsyn.com/thedailymeditationpodcast FOR DAILY EXTRA SUPPORT OUTSIDE THE PODCAST Each day's meditation techniques posted at: sip.and.om Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sip.and.om/ sip and om Facebook https://www.facebook.com/SipandOm/ A DIFFERENT MEDITATION TECHNIQUE EVERY DAY FOCUSED ON A WEEKLY THEME: Get ready for an exciting journey with a new meditation technique daily, perfectly tailored to the week's theme! Infuse these powerful practices into the most stressful moments of your day to master difficult emotions. These dynamic techniques will help you tame the "monkey mind," keeping your thoughts from interrupting your meditation and bringing peace and focus to your life. FREE TOOLS: For free meditation tools to help you meditate please head over to my website at www.SipandOm.com, and there you'll find free resources to help you on your Meditation Journey. Enjoy access to more than 3,000 guided meditations without ads on the Sip and Om app. Try it for 7 days of free access to the full app! Listen on iTunes for 1-Week Free! https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/sip-and-om/id1216664612?platform=iphone&preserveScrollPosition=true#platform/iphone   1-week Free Access to the Android app! https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.sipandom.sipandom   ***All meditations are Mary Meckley's original copyrighted content unless otherwise stated, and may not be shared without her written permission.   RESOURCES Music composed by Christopher Lloyd Clark licensed by RoyaltyFreeMusic.com, and also by musician Greg Keller.   I'D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU I'd love your feedback! Please let me know how you're enjoying the meditations by leaving me a review on iTunes.   **All of the information shared on this podcast is for your enjoyment only. Please don't consider the meditation techniques, herbal tea information, or other information shared by Mary Meckley or any of her guests as a replacement for any medical or psychological treatment. That being said, please enjoy any peace, energy, or clarity you may experience as you meditate. SHARE YOUR MEDITATION JOURNEY WITH YOUR FELLOW MEDITATORS   Let's connect and inspire each other! Please share a little about how meditation has helped you by reaching out to me at Mary@SipandOm.com or better yet -- direct message me at https://www.instagram.com/sip.and.om. We'd love to hear about your meditation ritual!  SUBSCRIBE, LEAVE A REVIEW + TAKE OUR SURVEY SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss a single episode. Consistency is the KEY to a successful meditation ritual. SHARE the podcast with someone who could use a little extra support. I'd be honored if you left me a podcast review. If you do, please email me at Mary@sipandom.com and let me know a little about yourself and how meditation has helped you. I'd love to share your journey to inspire fellow meditators on the podcast! SURVEY: Help us get to know more about how best to serve you by taking our demographics survey: https://survey.libsyn.com/thedailymeditationpodcast FOR DAILY EXTRA SUPPORT OUTSIDE THE PODCAST Each day's meditation techniques posted at: sip.and.om Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sip.and.om/ sip and om Facebook https://www.facebook.com/SipandOm/ A DIFFERENT MEDITATION TECHNIQUE EVERY DAY FOCUSED ON A WEEKLY THEME: Get ready for an exciting journey with a new meditation technique daily, perfectly tailored to the week's theme! Infuse these powerful practices into the most stressful moments of your day to master difficult emotions. These dynamic techniques will help you tame the "monkey mind," keeping your thoughts from interrupting your meditation and bringing peace and focus to your life. FREE TOOLS: For free meditation tools to help you meditate please head over to my website at www.SipandOm.com, and there you'll find free resources to help you on your Meditation Journey. Enjoy access to more than 3,000 guided meditations without ads on the Sip and Om app. Try it for 7 days of free access to the full app! Listen on iTunes for 1-Week Free! https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/sip-and-om/id1216664612?platform=iphone&preserveScrollPosition=true#platform/iphone   1-week Free Access to the Android app! https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.sipandom.sipandom   ***All meditations are Mary Meckley's original copyrighted content unless otherwise stated, and may not be shared without her written permission.   RESOURCES Music composed by Christopher Lloyd Clark licensed by RoyaltyFreeMusic.com, and also by musician Greg Keller.   I'D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU I'd love your feedback! Please let me know how you're enjoying the meditations by leaving me a review on iTunes.   **All of the information shared on this podcast is for your enjoyment only. Please don't consider the meditation techniques, herbal tea information, or other information shared by Mary Meckley or any of her guests as a replacement for any medical or psychological treatment. That being said, please enjoy any peace, energy, or clarity you may experience as you meditate.  

In this episode of Practical Stoicism, I unpack Meditations 4.4, where Marcus Aurelius reflects on the shared nature of human reason and its connection to a universal law. While Marcus builds a case for a kind of Stoic cosmopolitanism—where all rational beings are part of one commonwealth—I explore how this can inform our understanding of decentralized morality and Natural Law. I also contrast Stoic justice with religious or centralized legal frameworks, and explain why Stoicism's moral reasoning demands more personal responsibility and attentiveness to context. Later in the episode, I answer a listener question about standing for justice in a polarized world. I argue that recognizing our limitations is a crucial part of ethical living. We can't do everything, and pretending otherwise often causes more harm than good. Justice, from a Stoic perspective, begins with self-awareness and grows outward, rooted in reason and tempered by our roles and capacities. Meditations 4.4 If mind is common to us all, then also the reason, whereby we are reasoning beings, is common… and thence, from this common City, is derived our mind itself, our reason and our sense of law, or from what else? THREE TAKEAWAYS — Stoic justice is grounded in Natural Law, not dogma or divine command. — We must reason within our roles and limits, not pretend to be omnipotent. — Our shared reason connects us to a universal moral framework—but that framework still depends on individual effort and context. Join the Practical Stoicism community, the Society of Stoics, at https://community.stoicismpod.com. Members enjoy ad-free episodes, weekly journaling prompts, a membership medallion, and access to regular live calls and discussions. Join today at https://community.stoicismpod.com. Buy my book: https://stoicismpod.com/book Read source material: https://stoicismpod.com/far Subscribe on YouTube: https://stoicismpod.com/youtube Follow me on Bluesky: https://stoicismpod.com/bluesky Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode OverviewThis week, I consider the Stoic philosophy of Marcus Aurelius' Meditations and Epictetus' Enchiridion, part of Ted Gioia's Humanities List (link below!). Moving from Greek dramas to 2nd-century Roman Stoics, we first talk about the move from Greek lit to Roman, how the mindset and history will impact what we read. I cover Marcus Aurelius and Epictetus in depth, mention Admiral Stockdale (a modern Stoic) and end the episode with Rudyard Kipling's poem "If." Marcus Aurelius' MeditationsMeditations, the private journal of a Roman emperor, emphasizes self-focus, humility, and inner peace. Key takeaways include: Focus on your own mind and skills, not others' actions or opinions. Embrace nature to cultivate curiosity and appreciation for the world. Accept life's brevity and smallness, acting virtuously without expecting rewards. Find peace within, not in external escapes like vacation homes. Hold pleasures loosely to achieve contentment in the present moment.I note the surprising modernity of Aurelius' advice but question its contradictions, like the futility of life versus the call to virtue.Epictetus' EnchiridionEpictetus, a former slave turned philosopher, offers a direct, practical guide in The Enchiridion. I prefer Epictetus' straightforward style, finding it more relatable than Aurelius' introspections. Highlights include: Distinguish what harms the body from what affects the will—Epictetus' own lameness adds poignancy to this teaching. Know your limits and operate fully within them, committing wholeheartedly to your purpose. Avoid excess in speech, laughter, or indulgence, embracing simplicity.Consider the parallels to Biblical teachings like Colossians 3:17.Reflections and ChallengesI don't love Stoicism, as I think it sacrifices deep love and beauty. But there's no doubt that its ideals have a place in society--Stockdale and Kipling both reflect that. Translation struggles (George Long's arcane 1877 version versus Gregory Hays' readable Meditations) and time management issues due to travel delayed this week's reading. Classical music (Haydn's Symphonies 45, 94, and 104) enriched the experience, though I skipped the art.What's NextNext week, I explore Suetonius' Twelve Caesars with Mozart's symphonies and Italian art by Botticelli and Caravaggio. Subscribe to follow the journey! LINKSTed Gioia/The Honest Broker's 12-Month Immersive Humanities Course (paywalled!)My Amazon Book List (NOT an affiliate link)Haydn's Surprise SymphonyAdmiral James StockdaleSpencer Klavan (Modern Classicist)CONNECTTo read more of my writing, visit my Substack - https://www.cheryldrury.substack.com.Follow me on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cldrury/ LISTENSpotify -

Welcome to this empowering guided meditation for transcendence, inspired by Marcus Aurelius' timeless words: "You have power over your mind—not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength." This session invites you to release distractions, quiet the mind, and reconnect with the strength and serenity that reside within.Using sound as your anchor, this meditation provides a neutral and universal guide to gently draw your awareness inward. Free from judgment or expectation, sound helps you transcend distractions, let go of external pressures, and embrace the peace and clarity of the present moment.✨ What You'll Experience in This Meditation:Wisdom Reflection: Explore Marcus Aurelius' quote and its relevance to mastering your inner world.Letting Go Practice: Release tension, distractions, and external worries to nurture inner strength.Sound as Your Anchor: A steady, neutral guide to help you transcend thoughts and focus on inner stillness.Transcendence Practice: Move beyond the noise of the mind and reconnect with your natural state of calm and clarity.

As leaders, we cannot allow people to tell us what we want to hear. We have to cultivate honesty, both in ourselves and in those around us.

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3606: Ryan Holiday explores how anxiety, often invisible and normalized, drains our lives more than any luxury ever could. With wisdom from Stoic philosophers, he reframes anxiety as a habit we can unlearn, freeing ourselves to reclaim peace, presence, and perspective. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://ryanholiday.net/this-is-my-most-expensive-habit/ Quotes to ponder: "Anxiety turns the hypothetical into the actual. It drags us into a future that doesn't yet exist and forces us to live out every worst-case scenario in vivid detail." "Today, I escaped from anxiety. Or no, I discarded it, because it was within me, in my own perceptions, not outside." "It's not events that upset us but our opinions about them." Episode references: The Daily Stoic Podcast: https://dailystoic.com/podcast/ Epictetus' Discourses and Enchiridion: https://www.amazon.com/Discourses-Epictetus-Handbook-Oxford-Classics/dp/0199595186 Seneca's Letters from a Stoic: https://www.amazon.com/Letters-Stoic-Penguin-Classics/dp/0140442103 Meditations by Marcus Aurelius: https://www.amazon.com/Meditations-Penguin-Classics-Marcus-Aurelius/dp/0140449337 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3606: Ryan Holiday explores how anxiety, often invisible and normalized, drains our lives more than any luxury ever could. With wisdom from Stoic philosophers, he reframes anxiety as a habit we can unlearn, freeing ourselves to reclaim peace, presence, and perspective. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://ryanholiday.net/this-is-my-most-expensive-habit/ Quotes to ponder: "Anxiety turns the hypothetical into the actual. It drags us into a future that doesn't yet exist and forces us to live out every worst-case scenario in vivid detail." "Today, I escaped from anxiety. Or no, I discarded it, because it was within me, in my own perceptions, not outside." "It's not events that upset us but our opinions about them." Episode references: The Daily Stoic Podcast: https://dailystoic.com/podcast/ Epictetus' Discourses and Enchiridion: https://www.amazon.com/Discourses-Epictetus-Handbook-Oxford-Classics/dp/0199595186 Seneca's Letters from a Stoic: https://www.amazon.com/Letters-Stoic-Penguin-Classics/dp/0140442103 Meditations by Marcus Aurelius: https://www.amazon.com/Meditations-Penguin-Classics-Marcus-Aurelius/dp/0140449337 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3606: Ryan Holiday explores how anxiety, often invisible and normalized, drains our lives more than any luxury ever could. With wisdom from Stoic philosophers, he reframes anxiety as a habit we can unlearn, freeing ourselves to reclaim peace, presence, and perspective. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://ryanholiday.net/this-is-my-most-expensive-habit/ Quotes to ponder: "Anxiety turns the hypothetical into the actual. It drags us into a future that doesn't yet exist and forces us to live out every worst-case scenario in vivid detail." "Today, I escaped from anxiety. Or no, I discarded it, because it was within me, in my own perceptions, not outside." "It's not events that upset us but our opinions about them." Episode references: The Daily Stoic Podcast: https://dailystoic.com/podcast/ Epictetus' Discourses and Enchiridion: https://www.amazon.com/Discourses-Epictetus-Handbook-Oxford-Classics/dp/0199595186 Seneca's Letters from a Stoic: https://www.amazon.com/Letters-Stoic-Penguin-Classics/dp/0140442103 Meditations by Marcus Aurelius: https://www.amazon.com/Meditations-Penguin-Classics-Marcus-Aurelius/dp/0140449337 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Via Stoica Podcast: Stoic Quotes SeriesIn the Stoic Quotes series, we take a look at what the Stoics said and uncover the wisdom they left behind. We look at the famous writings from Epictetus, Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, and more.In this episode, we reflect on a powerful line from Epictetus in The Discourses:“Enable my mind to adapt itself to whatever comes to pass.”This quote points to the heart of Stoic resilience — the ability to remain grounded and flexible no matter what life throws our way. Epictetus reminds us that peace is not found in control over events, but in the power to adjust our minds to them.If you're interested in more quotes like this one, visit viastoica.com, where you'll find hundreds of Stoic sayings, each fully referenced and ready to use for study or inspiration.Stoic Quotes CollectionEpictetus QuotesSeneca QuotesMarcus Aurelius QuotesSubscribe to the podcast for more short quote episodes and our regular Tuesday recordings with deeper conversations and interviews. A rating or review helps us reach more listeners interested in living with clarity and virtue.Support the show

PendingIn today's episode of Practical Stoicism, I explore Meditations 4.3, a passage that, while often celebrated, carries the potential for self-abuse if misunderstood. Marcus Aurelius reflects on the desire to escape daily life by retreating into nature—something he admits he feels compelled to do himself. But rather than criticize that impulse, I suggest we reframe it: needing a retreat isn't weakness, it's part of the process of becoming better. While a sage might retreat into their mind, we Prokoptôns might genuinely need to retreat physically from time to time—and that's not failure, it's reality. Growth doesn't happen on command. It takes time, rest, and humility. Meditations 4.3Men look for retreats for themselves, the country, the sea-shore, the hills; and you yourself, too, are peculiarly accustomed to feel the same want. Yet all this is very unlike a philosopher, when you may at any hour you please retreat into yourself... The Universe is change, life is opinion. THREE TAKEAWAYS — The urge to escape isn't a weakness, it's a sign of being human—and sometimes necessary for moral progress. — Perfection isn't the goal; striving for better while accepting your limitations is. — If seashore retreats help you grow, they're not indulgences—they're tools for becoming a better person. Join the Practical Stoicism community, the Society of Stoics, at https://community.stoicismpod.com. Members enjoy ad-free episodes, weekly journaling prompts, a membership medallion, and access to regular live calls and discussions. Join today at https://community.stoicismpod.com. Buy my book: https://stoicismpod.com/book Read source material: https://stoicismpod.com/far Subscribe on YouTube: https://stoicismpod.com/youtube Follow me on Bluesky: https://stoicismpod.com/bluesky Grab the app: https://qotd.tannercampbell.net/ Follow me on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/tannercampbell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

ORIGINALLY RELEASED Sep 21, 2021 The one and only Hakim joins Breht to discuss the Iraq war from the perspective of Iraqis, the western left, Lenin, Reform AND Revolution, the importance of anti-imperialist struggle, contradictions and crises, the global south, etc. At the end, Hakim fields a bunch of common anti-socialist talking points and dismantles them one by one.  This is a wide ranging and genuinely fun conversation with a great comrade and political educator!  Subscribe to Hakim's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPPZoYsfoSekIpLcz9plX1Q Follow Hakim on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yaboihakim ---------------------------------------------------- Support Rev Left and get access to bonus episodes: www.patreon.com/revleftradio Make a one-time donation to Rev Left at BuyMeACoffee.com/revleftradio Follow, Subscribe, & Learn more about Rev Left Radio HERE Outro Beat Prod. by flip da hood

Send us a textWelcome to The Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.The Stoic Quotes series.In the Stoic quotes series, we take a look at what the Stoics said and uncover the wisdom they left behind. We look at the famous writings from Epictetus, Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, and more.In this episode, we look at a quote by Marcus Aurelius from Meditations, Book 6.6:“The best revenge is not to be like that.”What do we do when someone wrongs us? For Marcus Aurelius, the answer isn't retaliation—it's transformation. In this reflection, we explore the Stoic view on revenge, how to rise above resentment, and what it means to preserve your character when others lose theirs.If you are looking for more quotes like this one, visit viastoica.com, where we have pages of hundreds of Stoic sayings. All are accompanied by their references so you can find them or use them in your own writings.

In this episode of History 102, 'WhatIfAltHist' creator Rudyard Lynch and co-host Austin Padgett discuss the Pax Romana—a 200-year period of Mediterranean peace from Emperor Augustus to Marcus Aurelius. They explore Rome's governance evolution, imperial degeneracy, cultural transitions, technological stagnation, and Christianity's rise. The conversation examines Rome's remarkable longevity while drawing parallels to modern empires and cyclical historical patterns. --

This episode explores how anxiety can quietly hold us back from the things that matter most—and how Stoic wisdom offers a path through it.Drawing on insights from Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius, we look at how changing our judgments, not just our circumstances, empowers us to act despite fear and grow stronger in the process.

This episode of Practical Stoicism dives into the thought-provoking yet concise Meditations 4.2 by Marcus Aurelius. I explore what it means to act with purpose and how the Stoic tradition invites us to examine our actions not by their strict planning but by their alignment with Virtue. I argue that taking time to rest or reconnect with nature is not inherently aimless if it serves the goal of living well. I also reflect on a listener's question about why I choose not to use skin-tone-specific emojis, connecting this personal choice to Stoic principles of identity and focus. The conversation touches on the dangers of over-identification with external labels and the value of keeping one's attention on what truly matters: our role as rational participants in the Cosmopolis. MEDITATIONMeditations 4.2 — “Nothing that is undertaken is to be undertaken without a purpose, nor otherwise than according to a principle which makes the art of living perfect.” THREE TAKEAWAYS — Purposeful living doesn't mean relentless scheduling, but thoughtful engagement with your actions. — Rest and leisure, when chosen with intention, align with the Stoic pursuit of Virtue. — Avoiding identity labels can help maintain focus on the most important identity: being a rational part of the Cosmos. LINKS — Go ad-free: https://stoicismpod.com/members — Order my book: https://stoicismpod.com/book — Source Text: https://stoicismpod.com/far — Follow me on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/tannerocampbell.bsky.social — Follow me on YouTube: https://stoicismpod.com/youtube — Stoicism QOTD App: https://qotd.tannercampbell.net Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us a text“The essence of greatness is the perception that virtue is enough.” - Ralph Waldo EmersonYou ever feel like you're stuck between worlds?Too Asian for America, but too American for your Asian family?Like your face tells one story, but your heart is somewhere else entirely?I know that feeling. If you're part of the Asian diaspora — whether you grew up in NYC, Sydney, London, or somewhere in the Midwest — you've probably felt it too. Not quite at home in your skin. Not quite at peace with your place.But what if I told you that a Roman emperor from 2,000 years ago already understood this struggle — and had answers for it?In this episode, I share how Marcus Aurelius' Meditations — the personal journal of one of history's greatest philosopher-kings — offers timeless wisdom for the modern identity crisis. Especially for Asian diaspora youth navigating inherited trauma, cultural confusion, and feelings of not belonging.Marcus ruled an empire, buried children, endured plagues, and still chose humility, compassion, and self-discipline. And through it all, he came back to this:Live in accordance with Nature. Do your duty. Be good. Do good. That's enough.As members of the diaspora, we've inherited so much — the good, the bad, the beautiful, the broken. But we don't have to throw away our heritage to belong. We don't have to hide our pain to be strong. We get to shape our identity with purpose and virtue.Whether you're lost, angry, disconnected, or searching — this is for you.TL;DR - Delve into the rabbit hole of Stoic philosophy so it can change your life and help you reframe your Asian identity (struggle) in a positive meaningful way. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED TO START:Why You Need to Read Meditations by Marcus AureliusMarcus Aurelius - Meditations narrated by Vox StoicaABSOLUTE GOLDEN LECTURE: Marcus Aurelius' Meditations: The Stoic IdealSupport the show

Send us a textImagine embracing every twist and turn of life—both pleasant and painful—with open arms. This is the profound Stoic philosophy of amor fati, or "love of fate." Far from passive acceptance, amor fati encourages active enthusiasm toward every event in life. In this comprehensive guide, you'll discover the meaning of amor fati, its Stoic origins, powerful quotes, real-world examples, and actionable strategies to apply this transformative concept in your daily life.Support the showResources Stoic Handbook Premium Stoic Anxiety Mastery Stoic Handbook Newsletter

It has been said that “Creativity is the art of concealing your sources.” But what does that mean? Is it about passing off other people's work as your own? Or is it less about copying influences and more about concealing them like seeds in the soil? In this episode of The Gentle Rebel Podcast, we explore what this looks like and consider the impact on our natural creative spirit when we do (or don't) conceal our sources in healthy ways. https://youtu.be/jgNccDK_MH0?si=5CQCaXnvHZWbaEoP The randomiser prompt wheel selected this phrase for me on Tuesday ahead of our Serenity Island Picnic. I'll be honest, when I first saw "Creativity is the art of concealing your sources”, I was tempted to spin again. But, I gave it a go and found a few interesting threads to pull at. Concealing Our Sources Like Seeds Concealing our sources about misleading or deceiving. It's about letting inspiration settle deep enough that it becomes more than it is. Like planting a seed. We don't bury seeds to hide them; we bury them so they can grow. Our influences need space, time, and darkness to take root and become unique to us. This applies not just to creative work, but to life itself. When Sources Weigh Us Down Sometimes, a source casts a heavy shadow. I remember when I started writing songs and held everything up to my Thom Yorke-ometer. I compared what I created with what I believed Radiohead would produce, ignoring the other sounds and voices that wanted to be involved. This had an impact on my creative freedom until I let go of the desire to emulate the music I loved, capturing instead what truly inspired me about the band. The Subtle Power of Concealment The word “conceal” can sound suspicious, like trickery or withholding. But it can also be a positive source of protection and consent. Sometimes we need to conceal our sources from those who want to steal, exploit, or imitate without effort. Or those who want more information than we are comfortable or willing to share. We also sometimes need to conceal our sources from ourselves, especially when they become yardsticks for comparison and judgement. When a parent, mentor, or idol takes up too much space in our heads, our actions can become reactions. Instead of creating from a place of freedom, we're trying to impress, appease, or prove something. Our Creative Lineage At the beginning of Meditations, Marcus Aurelius devotes an entire section to acknowledging how family members, teachers, and the gods (both directly and indirectly) shaped his character, values, and worldview. For example, honesty from his father, humility from his mentor, resilience from hardship, etc. This collection starts on a platform that essentially rejects the romaticised idea we often hear about today with people described as “self-made”. I thought about the deep processing a highly sensitive person does and the impact of SO many things on influencing who and how we become. Each of us has a creative lineage/heritage. We are shaped by countless sources—people, experiences, stories, relationships, and chance encounters. Some sources give us strength, others weigh us down with expectations and demands. Some we learn directly from (we receive wisdom from the example they set). Others we learn indirectly from (we are invited to grow in response to the example they set). We are all a messy mix. And while we are infused by them, we are not defined by them. Here are some reflection questions we used in our Serenity Island picnic earlier this week. Who or what would you consider part of your creative lineage? What part of that lineage feels overgrown, overweight, or overbearing right now? What might shift if you pared that influence back, cut it out, or intentionally replanted it as a new seed again? Which elements of your lineage would you like to feature more of and amplify in your life? These are the questions we explored together at the Serenity Island ...

ORIGINALLY RELEASED Mar 10, 2023 In this episode of Guerrilla History, we bring on two fantastic guests, Prof. Charisse Burden-Stelly and Prof. Jodi Dean. We discuss their co-edited collection, Organize, Fight, Win: Black Communist Women's Political Writing, which is an absolutely indispensable resource for those of us serious about achieving liberation!  This collection includes writings focused on the period from 1919-1956, which argue that racial and economic equality can only be achieved by overthrowing capitalism.  Pick up the book! Dr. CBS is an Associate Professor of African American Studies at Wayne State University.  She is an organizer with Black Alliance for Peace and a Co-Author of W.E.B. Du Bois: A Life in American History alongside our mutual friend Gerald Horne.  She can be followed on twitter @blackleftaf or on her website https://www.charisseburdenstelly.com/. Dr. Jodi Dean is a Professor of Political Science at Hobart and William Smith Colleges.  She is the author of numerous books including Comrade: An Essay on Political Belonging, Crowds and Party, and The Communist Horizon.  She can be followed on twitter @jodi7768. ---------------------------------------------------- Support Rev Left and get access to bonus episodes: www.patreon.com/revleftradio Make a one-time donation to Rev Left at BuyMeACoffee.com/revleftradio Follow, Subscribe, & Learn more about Rev Left Radio HERE

Marcus Aurelius was the public face of an empire. Seneca published plays and books. Cato and Cicero ran for office. Epictetus was a slave to a powerful Roman, at his whim and his mercy. In other words, they knew what it was like to be criticized.

Welcome to this deeply grounding guided meditation for transcendence, inspired by the wisdom of Marcus Aurelius:"You have power over your mind—not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength."This meditation is designed to help you strengthen your awareness, quiet mental distractions, and cultivate deep inner resilience. Life is constantly moving, thoughts will always arise, but true mastery comes when we learn to return, again and again, to the stillness within.By using sound as an anchor, we create a steady point of focus—one that allows us to transcend mental noise, distractions, and external stressors.✨ What You'll Experience in This Meditation:✔ Wisdom Reflection: Explore Marcus Aurelius' teachings on mental strength and awareness.✔ Letting Go Practice: Release stress, external worries, and overthinking.✔ Sound as Your Anchor: A steady, neutral guide to help you stay present.✔ Transcendence Practice: Move beyond mental noise and reconnect with your true, peaceful self.

Jerry Seinfeld returns to the garage, and joins Spike and Zuckerman for a hilarious ride through cars, conflict, and comedy. They debate summer car choices, Jerry reveals his newfound love for Volvos, and share insights on Porsche models from the S/T to the 918. Highlights include Jerry demonstrating his 1969 Mercedes 220D's quirky glow plug system and his declaration that getting upset is always a choice. _____________________________________________________

Self-talk, what you say to yourself internally, manifests itself in your outward attitude and actions. As any elite athlete will tell you, the mental games you play with yourself between your ears will make or break you. When all things are equal, mindset is one thing that separates winners and losers. This is one of the reasons that I love golf so much. Once you understand the basic mechanics of the golf swing the only thing that really matters is mindset. On every shot your ability to focus, calm your mind, and remain mentally disciplined is the thin line between brilliance and disaster. Allow the wrong thoughts to creep in and before you know it you've shanked your shot into a water hazard.  You Become What You Think In golf and in sales, you cannot afford the luxury of a negative thought.  Self-talk is crazy powerful. You become what you think. When you expect to win, you'll win far more often than the person who believes they are going to lose. When you learn how to block out negative thoughts and inputs and remain focused on your process you'll consistently out perform those who don't.  Understanding this is crucial in these crazy times full of volatility, uncertainty, negativity and divisiveness. In this environment where everything can hit the fan in an instant on any given day, it is super easy to become mired in stinking thinking.  Beware of Stinking Thinking Stinking thinking is the toxic inner soundtrack that loops in your head after a bad conversation with your boss, seeing a negative story on the news or social media, a lost deal, a bad quarter, or hitting five straight voicemails on cold calls. It's every “Nobody answers the phone anymore,” “No one's buying in this economy,” or “I'm just not cut out for sales.”line you feed yourself. It's catastrophizing. It's victim-talk. Imagine the impact on your mindset when your internal conversation is constantly filled with negativity. It's the mental equivalent of leaving a half-eaten tuna sandwich in your backpack for a week—eventually the smell becomes unbearable. Mindset drives attitude, attitude drives behavior, and behavior drives outcomes. When stinking thinking settles in: Your Reticular Activating System—the brain's spam filter—starts looking for evidence you're doomed, and sure enough, you find it. Call reluctance skyrockets. You protect your fragile ego instead of filling the pipe and asking confidently for the sale. Every “maybe” sounds like a “no,” every objection feels personal, and every tiny setback reinforces the lie that you're stuck. Left unchecked, that negative monologue becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. Your pipeline shrinks, numbers dip, confidence tanks, and pretty soon you're blaming the market instead of owning the mirror. Thoughts are Just Choices The good news is that thoughts are just choices. You control your mindset. You have the ability to flip the switch from victim to driver. From rain barrel to rainmaker.  What you must never forget is that momentum follows mindset, not the other way around. Manage your self-talk and the results follow suit.  When your self-talk turns negative, take control and change it. Learn to replace negative self-talk with positive affirmations and statements. Get in the habit of looking in the mirror and answering the question: “What can I control right now?” Focus on that.  Knowing vs Doing Now, here's the rub, everybody knows self-talk matters. Socrates hammered on it. Marcus Aurelius journaled about it. Your grandmother probably told you to “stop being so negative.” The concept of mental discipline isn't new, it's universal. But intellectual agreement and day-to-day execution are two very different zip codes. You can post quotes from every Stoic on LinkedIn and still spend the morning telling yourself, “I'll never hit quota in this economy.” Knowledge without application is just trivia. So flip the switch from knowing to doing.

It was a dark world…and Marcus Aurelius desperately needed some light.

The right book at the right time is a powerful thing. In fact, it can change the whole course of your life.

We were born to work together like feet, hands, and eyes, like the two rows of teeth, upper and lower. To obstruct each other is unnatural.

We all have those days where we'd rather just not. The ancients knew days like this.

Marcus Aurelius' life teaches us how to live well. And because he lived well, his story also teaches us how to die well: with grace, with strength, with empathy, and with the comfort of knowing that he lived a good life as a good man.

When Marcus Aurelius addresses “you”—reminding you that your thoughts shape the quality of your mind, or advising you to choose not to be harmed so that you won't feel harmed—he is speaking to himself. This exercise in self-improvement is so sincere and earnest, sometimes painfully so, that it unintentionally speaks directly to us, helping us with our modern problems. In today's episode, Ryan Holiday shares the profound shift these lessons had on his life since discovering Meditations at 19.

What do an A-list actor, a four-star Navy admiral, and a world-famous magician have in common? Meditations by Marcus Aurelius has profoundly shaped each of their lives—proof that a Roman emperor's private reflections still resonate 2,000 years later.In today's episode, Ryan speaks with actor Patrick Dempsey, director Francis Ford Coppola, Professor Jennifer Baker, magician Derren Brown, bestselling author Donald Robertson, Admiral William McRaven, and voice actor/musician Troy Baker about their personal connections to Meditations.

The Stoics weren't just leaders and philosophers, they were also parents, spouses, and friends who experienced joy, who fell in love, who cherished the beauty of the world around them.