Podcast appearances and mentions of Marcus Aurelius

In this episode of Acta Non Verba, host Marcus Aurelius Anderson examines one of philosophy's most provocative questions: Was Seneca a hypocrite? Through the lens of Stoic philosophy and Roman history, Marcus explores the dangerous cognitive trap of hypocrisy bias and challenges listeners to examine their own inconsistencies before judging others. Episode Highlights [0:45] The Seneca Question: Was the wealthy Roman philosopher who forced loans on conquered peoples truly living by Stoic principles, or was he a hypocrite? [2:10] Understanding Hypocrisy Bias: How our tendency to judge others' inconsistencies more harshly than our own blinds us to truth and derails meaningful discussions. [6:16] The Marcus Aurelius Paradox: Even the revered philosopher-emperor struggled with anger daily and made questionable decisions like allowing his son Commodus to take power. [7:38] 30-Day Reflection Challenge: Three critical questions to examine your own hypocrisy, how you judge others, and whether imperfect messengers can still deliver truth. 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.

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!emersonk78@me.comExcel Still More Journal - AmazonNew GENESIS Daily Bible Devotional!Daily Bible Devotional Series - AmazonSponsors:  Spiritbuilding Publishers Website:  www.spiritbuilding.comTyler Cain, Senior Loan Officer, Statewide MortgageWebsites: https://statewidemortgage.com/https://tylercain.floify.com/Phone: 813-380-84871) Master what you can control - your mind, your choices, your discipline.2) Live your philosophy quietly - embody truth, don't perform it.3) Be charitable toward people - don't judge, don't take revenge.4) Accept hardship as training - no complaining, use it5) Live urgently and humbly - you will die, make today matter.These ideas have shaped people's lives for centuries. All are valuable and can have directional impacts on your life. However, each one needs more Jesus! Don't we all, and don't all things, just need a little more Jesus? Well, maybe a lot. Let's take these ancient truths for self-improvement and add to them divine concepts of the Messiah, and then they can truly become The Supreme Five!

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.In this episode, we look at a passage by Marcus Aurelius from Meditations, Book 5.3, where he reminds himself how to act in the face of criticism and doubt:“If an action or utterance is appropriate, then it's appropriate for you. Don't be put off by other people's comments and criticism. If it's right to say or do it, then it's the right thing for you to do or say.”— Marcus Aurelius, Meditations, Book 5.3The core idea is simple: first judge carefully what is appropriate, then have the courage to act. Marcus points out that other people follow their own impulses and views. Their reactions are not your responsibility. What matters is whether your action aligns with reason, ethics, and your role in the world.This theme runs through Stoicism as a whole. Epictetus emphasizes responsibility for choice, Seneca warns against living for approval, and all three Stoic disciplines come together here. Desire is trained away from praise, Assent is used to judge what is right, and Action is where courage is required to follow through.In practice, this helps when you hesitate to speak honestly, make a difficult decision, or feel shaken by criticism. Ask whether the action is fair and necessary. If it is, do it. Learn from feedback if it is useful, but do not let it define your worth or stop your progress.For more, check out this related article with quotes on Stoic courage:https://viastoica.com/10-epictetus-quotes-on-stoic-courage/And if you're looking for more Stoic sayings, visit viastoica.com, where you'll find hundreds of quotes with full references to the original texts:https://viastoica.com/stoic-quoteshttps://viastoica.com/marcus-aurelius-quoteshttps://viastoica.com/epictetus-quoteshttps://viastoica.com/seneca-quotesMake sure to subscribe for more Stoic Quotes episodes every Friday, as well as our Tuesday interviews and longer discussions.Support the showhttps://viastoica.comhttps://viastoica.com/stoic-life-coachinghttps://viastoica.com/benny-vonckenhttps://x.com/ViaStoicainfo@viastoica.comProduced by: badmic.com

Leadership starts internally. Drawing from Jim Collins and Marcus Aurelius, this episode explores why emotional discipline, humility, and self-control determine long-term influence. You don't rise to your title—you fall to your inner standards.

Seriously, do NOT miss this one! Author and commentator Daniel Natal is back by popular demand. Join us as he helps us dive deeper into our reading of MEDITATIONS by Marcus Aurelius. With fresh insights on Aurelius's timeless ideas, discover how they resonate with our modern cultural challenges.  Find Daniel Natal: Youtube: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@thedanielnatalshow3465⁠ Exclusive Content and Ways to Support: Support me on Substack for ad-free content, bonus material, personal chatting and more! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://substack.com/@monicaperezshow⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Become a PREMIUM SUBSCRIBER on Apple Podcasts for AD FREE episodes and exclusive content! True Hemp Science: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://truehempscience.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ PROMO CODE: MONICA Find, Follow, Subscribe & Rate on your favorite podcasting platform AND for video and social & more... Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://monicaperezshow.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Substack: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://substack.com/@monicaperezshow⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Rumble: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://rumble.com/user/monicaperezshow⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/MonicaPerez⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter/X: @monicaperezshow Instagram: @monicaperezshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode reflects on how awareness of mortality sharpens our sense of what truly matters, through the unforgettable lesson Randy Pausch taught with a spilled soda and Marcus Aurelius's reminder that every day arrives with a due date.When time is no longer assumed to be endless, possessions lose their grip and postponed priorities come into focus. Far from being morbid, this clarity is freeing—it helps us release what doesn't matter and act on what does.The question left hanging is simple and urgent: how will you use today's opportunity before it quietly expires?

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.In this episode, we explore why self compassion matters if we want to make real progress. Stoicism is demanding, and it can easily turn into a quiet kind of perfectionism, where every mistake feels like failure. But the Stoics were never asking us to be finished, they were asking us to keep training.Marcus Aurelius begins his reflections on Antoninus Pius with a simple lesson: “compassion.”Marcus Aurelius, Meditations, 1.17For the Stoics, this wasn't about being soft or excusing yourself, but about staying fair, steady, and willing to learn. When Marcus points to compassion, he isn't encouraging comfort for its own sake, but reminding us that harsh self judgment clouds reason, and makes it harder to correct course.You will hear practical reflections on the difference between being nice and being kind, how to use the Pause to step back instead of spiraling, and how the four virtues can guide honest self review without self punishment. The goal is not to lower the standard, but to keep moving toward it, as a student, one decision at a time.Listen to the full episode now and discover how self compassion can transform the way you think, act, and see your life.Read the related article: https://viastoica.com/why-stoic-progress-requires-self-compassion/Support the show

Book your trip to Greece with us for September 2026 and the Styx and Bones Girlies we have 5 EARLY BIRD SPOTS LEFT: https://trovatrip.com/trip/europe/greece/greece-with-chelsea-the-ghost-whisperer-sep-2026?earlyBird=true⁠We're kicking off 2026 with new hobbies philosophy, mythology, and entrances to the underworld. This week, the girls are crushing on Marcus Aurelius and why Stoicism still hits, diving into Odysseus and the prophecies that shape his fate, and teasing next week's episode on the entrances to the Underworld and the paths to Hades.Philosophy, prophecy, and a little descent into the ancient world - just girly things.Chapters: Intro (00:00)Crushing on Marcus Aurelius & Philosophy (07:40)Personal Updates, the Gods & the Harms of ChatGPT (16:31)Greece, Styx and Bones Temple, Goddesses, Lunulas & Hekate (24:30)Entrances to Hades, Prophecy & Odysseus (31:20)Calling all devotees to Styx and Bones that are content creators! Join the Styx and Bones Temple new affiliate marketing program:https://www.crystalmoonclarity.com/affiliate-marketingCheck out our Patreon, Styx and Bones Temple's Store, Blogs and more! ⁠⁠⁠https://beacons.ai/styxandboness⁠FOLLOW STYX AND BONES ON SOCIAL MEDIAhttps://www.instagram.com/styxandbonespodcast⁠⁠⁠

In today's episode, Neil delves into the profound and often overlooked topic of mortality. Drawing heavily from Stoic philosophy and Marcus Aurelius's Meditations, Neil argues that acknowledging our "finish line" is not morbid, but rather a powerful tool for clarity and motivation in both life and business.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Death is the only true inevitability; acknowledging this prevents us from letting ourselves "off the hook" by pretending we have unlimited time. Neil highlights three core tenets for a wiser life: control your perception, direct your actions properly, and willingly accept what you cannot change. Realizing the universe is "too busy" to intervene in your life can be incredibly liberating for those dealing with anxiety or fear of failure. Neil challenges the traditional idea of retirement, questioning whether activities like golf could ever be as satisfying as the moment a student finally "gets it." Treat every morning you wake up as a "bonus" and a reason for gratitude, rather than an entitlement. BEST MOMENTS "Think of the life you've lived until now as over, and as a dead man, see what's left as a bonus and live it according to nature."  "The universe doesn't give a flying f*** about us. Get over it." "I'm all in favor of arriving at my own graveside on a big motorcycle, sliding sideways and wheel-spinning over the edge with a maniac grin on my face." "Is there anything more satisfying to you than helping your tribe? Anything at all?" "Do not, as Dylan Thomas put it, go gentle into that good night." VALUABLE RESOURCES www.Neilcowmeadow.com info@neilcowmeadow.com HOST BIO Neil Cowmeadow is a maverick peripatetic guitar teacher from Telford with over 19 years' experience in the business of helping people. Learn how to start, grow and love your business with Neil's invaluable advice and tips without the buzzwords and BS! This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In today's episode, you'll hear about 7 traits that the Stoics actually lived by, and why they shaped leaders we're still learning from 2,000 years later.

Send us a textStart your day with a simple gratitude meditation rooted in ancient Stoic wisdom. In just 10 minutes, you'll practice three gratitudes, shift your mindset from lack to abundance, and set yourself up for a day of noticing what's right—not just what's wrong. Inspired by Marcus Aurelius and Seneca, this guided meditation helps you see clearly what you already have, before the day's demands take over. Perfect for mornings when you want to feel grounded, grateful, and ready.

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on Stoicism.Where we take a moment to slow down and reflect on what the Stoics can teach us about living with reason and restraint. In this episode, we turn to Seneca and a striking passage from On Anger, Book 3, section 3: “So tell me, will someone call a man sane who, as if caught up in a tempest, does not walk, but is driven along and takes as his master a furious demon?”Seneca uses vivid language to show what anger does to the mind. When anger takes over, we are no longer choosing our actions; we are being carried by them. The Stoic principle at work here is self-command. Anger is not strength, but a loss of inner direction, a momentary madness that blocks reason and leads us away from acting well.This idea connects closely with Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius, who both warn against being ruled by impressions instead of examining them. Through the disciplines of Desire, Assent, and Action, Stoicism teaches us to loosen our attachment to emotional impulses, question the judgments that ignite anger, and respond deliberately rather than react blindly. In everyday life, this means learning to pause when irritation arises, recognizing when emotion is taking the lead, and choosing restraint over release, especially in moments of pressure or conflict.For more, check out this related article with quotes on Stoicism and anger:https://viastoica.com/10-seneca-quotes-on-anger/And if you're looking for more Stoic sayings, visit viastoica.com, where you'll find hundreds of quotes with full references to the original texts:https://viastoica.com/stoic-quoteshttps://viastoica.com/marcus-aurelius-quoteshttps://viastoica.com/epictetus-quoteshttps://viastoica.com/seneca-quotesMake sure to subscribe for more Stoic Quotes episodes every Friday, as well as our Tuesday interviews and longer discussions.Support the showhttps://viastoica.comhttps://viastoica.com/stoic-life-coachinghttps://viastoica.com/benny-vonckenhttps://x.com/ViaStoicainfo@viastoica.comProduced by: badmic.com

People probably thought Marcus Aurelius was strange. The time he spent alone in his room. The long walks he took by himself. There would be no Meditations without this quiet solitude, but more alarming, there would have been no Marcus Aurelius, either.

In this episode of The Clay Edwards Show, host Clay Edwards kicks off with a fiery take on living in interesting times, battling cancel culture, and fighting for unfiltered truth in Jackson, Mississippi. Joined by caller Derek, the conversation dives into personal growth, embracing stoicism inspired by Marcus Aurelius, and the importance of men stepping up as leaders—surrounding yourself with like-minded people to build strength and normalize masculinity. They touch on cultural shifts, from making testosterone great again to the upside-down food pyramid and the need for real masculine role models like GI Joes and Tonka trucks.   The discussion shifts to modern challenges in churches, where single men feel alienated by messages focused on family leadership, and explores broader issues like pushing trade schools over college for everyone. Clay addresses the recent synagogue arson by a young man from Madison, examining how online radicalization—possibly tied to manosphere content—twists self-improvement into antisemitism, and calls for getting this under control without infringing on free speech.   Later, Clay tackles the bribery scandal involving Hinds County DA Jody Owens, who claims entrapment by the FBI, and questions if others like former Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba will follow suit. The episode heats up with a deep dive into the Supreme Court hearing on transgender athletes in women's sports, featuring audio from Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson's questioning and reactions from callers like Lindsay Beckham. They slam the absurdity of redefining gender, the slippery slope of locker room access, and how figures like Riley Gaines are standing up for women's rights. Clay argues common sense must prevail, suggesting a WNBA scenario with a transgender player could flip the narrative.   Wrapping up with listener texts and calls on youth radicalization, Clay emphasizes America First priorities while rejecting blanket hatred. Strap in for raw, no-holds-barred talk on culture, politics, and reclaiming common sense.

Send us a textWhat happens when a retired Marine takes the discipline of the military and applies it to faith, fitness, and community? In this episode of The Days Grimm, Paul Linberg returns for round two to share the incredible growth of his mission and the impact it is having on men across the country. After retiring from the Marine Corps, Paul realized the civilian world often lacked the "tribe" mentality essential for growth, leading him to co-found Ruck and Rosary, a program designed to challenge the mind, body, and soul.Paul breaks down the origin of Ruck and Rosary, which combines a five-mile weighted ruck with the five decades of the rosary. This isn't just a workout; it is a structured environment where men discuss the pillars of being a better man, a better husband, and a better father. Paul explains how these "universal truths" are shared through both biblical scripture and the wisdom of Stoic philosophers like Marcus Aurelius, proving that the pursuit of discipline is a timeless human endeavor.A significant portion of this conversation focuses on the power of community in personal transformation. Host Brian  Day shares his own journey of returning to the Catholic church at St. Benedict Cathedral after 25 years, a move directly inspired by the support and brotherhood he found within Paul's rucking group. This episode highlights how a simple invitation to "ruck" can lead to profound spiritual and personal changes.This conversation goes deeper than fitness. Paul opens up about combat experiences, traumatic brain injuries, and the long-term mental health challenges faced by veterans. The group discusses why talking openly, doing hard things together, and building consistent routines can be life-saving, especially for men who struggle to slow down or ask for help.The episode also takes a deep dive into Paul's military history, specifically the events of December 15, 2006, in Ramadi. Paul recounts the harrowing details of a VBIED attack involving a cement truck filled with explosives and the complex ambush that followed. His "Alive Day" story serves as a powerful reminder of the perspective gained through service and the resilience required to keep moving forward when the "RPMs" of life feel overwhelming.Finally, Paul discusses his newest project, The Watch and the War podcast, and how he manages a life filled with family, ministry, and security training. Why podcasting can be therapeutic, and how connecting the right people at the right time can change lives. From stoicism and faith to addiction, discipline, and family priorities, this is an honest, grounded conversation about building a life with purpose after service.Whether you are a veteran seeking a new tribe or someone looking to balance high-intensity life with spiritual peace, Paul's insights on routine and "standing in the breach" offer a compelling roadmap for the modern man.This episode offers real-world insight.no fluff, no shortcuts.KEY TOPICS COVERED:* The origin and mission of the Ruck and Rosary program* Building a resilient tribe after the Marine Corps* Mind, Body, and Soul: The structure of a 5-mile spiritual ruck* Comparing Stoicism and the Gospe[The Days Grimm Podcast Links]- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheDaysGrimm- Our link tree: linktr.ee/Thedaysgrimm- GoFundMe account for The Days Grimm: https://gofund.me/02527e7c [The Days Grimm is brought to you by]Sadness & ADHD (non-medicated)

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.In this episode, we explore why the idea of the Stoic lone wolf is a myth. While modern culture often praises isolation and radical self reliance as strength, the Stoics understood human beings as deeply social by nature. Solitude can restore us, but cutting ourselves off from others slowly erodes purpose and direction.Marcus Aurelius captures this clearly when he writes:“Have you ever seen a severed hand or foot, or a decapitated head, lying somewhere apart from the rest of the body? That is what a person makes of himself when he refuses to accept what happens and cuts himself off from others.”Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 8.34He is not condemning solitude, but reminding us that we flourish only when we see ourselves as part of a larger whole.This episode reflects on the difference between chosen solitude and harmful isolation, the Stoic importance of roles and duties, and why real strength lies in connection, responsibility, and contribution. Stoicism invites us not to withdraw from life, but to take our place in it with reason, kindness, and steadiness.Listen to the full episode now and discover how connection and responsibility can transform the way you think, act, and see your life.Read the related article: https://viastoica.com/why-the-stoic-lone-wolf-doesnt-exist/Support the show

"We're atrophying our skill for patience... We're consuming just content."Modern convenience has destroyed our ability to focus.If you cannot sit down with a paperback book for 30 minutes without reaching for your phone, your attention span has atrophied. You have lost the skill of deep thought.We have lost the skill of reading. We consume "content"—headlines, clips, summaries—but we rarely consume Knowledge.Vulcan argues that reading a dense, real book is the highest ROI (Return on Investment) activity in existence.The Utility of Reading:Simulation Training: Run the life of a General or Spy in your head without suffering the consequences.Linear Thought: Re-learning how to think from A to Z, not just reacting to 15-second clips.The Director: Movies make you passive. Books make you the Director.Stop skimming. Start downloading.The Challenge:The Analog 30.No Kindles. No iPads. No Phones.Pick up a hardcover book. Read for 30 minutes continuous.If you feel the "itch" to check a notification—Good. Push through it. Reclaim your mind.If you don't read history, you suffer from "Born Yesterday Syndrome." You think every crisis is the end of the world.But when you read Marcus Aurelius, you realize he dealt with plagues, wars, and betrayal, just like us. Human nature is constant.#Stoicism #Seneca #History #MarcusAurelius #Philosophy #SundaySmoke

Seriously, do NOT miss this one! Author and commentator Daniel Natal is back by popular demand. Join us as he helps us dive deeper into our reading of MEDITATIONS by Marcus Aurelius. With fresh insights on Aurelius's timeless ideas, discover how they resonate with our modern cultural challenges.  Find Daniel Natal: Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@thedanielnatalshow3465 Exclusive Content and Ways to Support: Support me on Substack for ad-free content, bonus material, personal chatting and more! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://substack.com/@monicaperezshow⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Become a PREMIUM SUBSCRIBER on Apple Podcasts for AD FREE episodes and exclusive content! True Hemp Science: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://truehempscience.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ PROMO CODE: MONICA Find, Follow, Subscribe & Rate on your favorite podcasting platform AND for video and social & more... Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://monicaperezshow.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Substack: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://substack.com/@monicaperezshow⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Rumble: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://rumble.com/user/monicaperezshow⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/MonicaPerez⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter/X: @monicaperezshow Instagram: @monicaperezshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Marcus Aurelius wrote about how the philosopher is one with their weapon—like a boxer, more than a swordsman. A boxer just clenches their fist. A fencer has to pick something up. Through repetition, through absorption, we're trying to fuse ourselves with our philosophy.

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism. In this week's Stoic Quotes episode, we look at Epictetus, Discourses, Book 4, Chapter 4, recorded by Arrian. He writes: “But it is a much finer thing to be happy, to have a peaceful and undisturbed mind, to have what concerns you depend on nobody but yourself.”At first glance, this can sound like withdrawal from the world, but Epictetus is pointing to something more demanding. He is reminding us that the moment we tie our happiness to externals, whether comfort, leisure, approval, or even quiet, we become dependent and easily disturbed. Stoic happiness is not about arranging perfect conditions, but about cultivating inner steadiness through right judgment. In modern terms, peace comes not from controlling life, but from aligning our desires with what is truly up to us.This teaching echoes through Stoicism, from Marcus Aurelius' emphasis on inner rule to Seneca's insistence that freedom begins with self-command. It touches all three Stoic disciplines: Desire, by letting go of attachments to externals; Assent, by examining the judgments that create disturbance; and Action, by choosing what accords with reason and virtue, even when it feels uncomfortable. Practically, this means learning to remain composed when plans fail, choosing values over convenience, and finding contentment in acting well rather than feeling comfortable.For more, check out this related article with quotes on Stoic inner peace and solitude:https://viastoica.com/10-marcus-aurelius-quotes-on-being-alone/And if you're looking for more Stoic sayings, visit viastoica.com, where you'll find hundreds of quotes with full references to the original texts:https://viastoica.com/stoic-quoteshttps://viastoica.com/marcus-aurelius-quoteshttps://viastoica.com/epictetus-quoteshttps://viastoica.com/seneca-quotesMake sure to subscribe for more Stoic Quotes episodes every Friday, as well as our Tuesday interviews and longer discussions.Support the showhttps://viastoica.comhttps://viastoica.com/stoic-life-coachinghttps://viastoica.com/benny-vonckenhttps://x.com/ViaStoicainfo@viastoica.comProduced by: badmic.com

Join me for part 10, the final chapters, of a reading and discussion of Meditations, one of the most influential works of Stoic philosophy, by Marcus Aurelius – Roman Emperor and philosopher. In this series we'll explore the core tenants of Stoicism, examining its emphasis on virtue, reason, and acceptance. Exclusive Content and Ways to Support: Support me on Substack for ad-free content, bonus material, personal chatting and more! ⁠https://substack.com/@monicaperezshow⁠ Become a PREMIUM SUBSCRIBER on Apple Podcasts for AD FREE episodes and exclusive content! True Hemp Science: ⁠https://truehempscience.com/⁠ PROMO CODE: MONICA Find, Follow, Subscribe & Rate on your favorite podcasting platform AND for video and social & more... Website: ⁠https://monicaperezshow.com/⁠ Substack: ⁠https://substack.com/@monicaperezshow⁠ Rumble: ⁠https://rumble.com/user/monicaperezshow⁠ Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/MonicaPerez⁠ Twitter/X: @monicaperezshow Instagram: @monicaperezshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism. In this episode, we explore what it really means to build a strong relationship, not from modern ideals of romance or constant happiness, but from a Stoic understanding of character, responsibility, and shared life. Relationships matter deeply in everyday life, yet they often become a source of anxiety, pressure, and confusion. The Stoics approached them differently, seeing relationships not as a solution to personal emptiness, but as a field in which virtue is practiced.At the core of this episode is a simple but demanding insight: strong relationships begin with a strong relationship to oneself. Before seeking completion in another, Stoicism asks us to cultivate self-knowledge, balance, and inner stability. From that foundation, relationships become places of cooperation rather than dependency, growth rather than possession.Marcus Aurelius captures this clearly when he writes:“People exist for one another; you can instruct them, or endure them.”Meditations, Book 8.59For the Stoics, this wasn't about ideal harmony or avoiding conflict, but about understanding our role toward others. When Marcus Aurelius writes this, he isn't being cynical, but reminding us that relationships are part of our nature as social beings. They call us to act with patience, fairness, and care, even when it is difficult.The episode also draws on Stoic reflections on friendship, marriage, and attachment, including insights from Seneca and Epictetus, showing that lasting relationships are grounded in virtue rather than pleasure, status, or fear of loss.Here are a few Stoic practices from this episode you can explore in your own life:Strengthen your inner foundation – Work on self-knowledge and balance before seeking fulfillment through another person.Practice relationships as cooperation – Replace winning arguments with understanding and shared responsibility.Examine judgments in conflict – Pause before reacting and question the story you are telling yourself about the other person.Hold relationships with gratitude, not fear – Remember that others are mortal and changeable, and let this deepen appreciation rather than anxiety.In a time when relationships are often idealized or feared, Stoicism offers a grounded alternative. It helps us approach love, friendship, and partnership with clarity, realism, and care. By the end of this episode, you'll see that Stoicism isn't a cold philosophy of detachment, but a way of building relationships that are honest, resilient, and rooted in virtue.Listen to the full episode now and discover how Stoic wisdom can transform the way you relate to others and to yourself.Read the companion article: [insert link if available]Support the show

In this episode of The Strong Stoic, I explore a Stoic paradox: the one making the most progress often feels it the least.Drawing from Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius, and real-world examples from leadership, fitness, and personal responsibility, this episode breaks down why conscientious people feel behind, why growth creates insecurity, and why feeling unstable doesn't mean you're weak.I talk about:Why rising standards distort self-perceptionThe difference between awareness and anxietyWhy imposter syndrome often signals expansionHow to separate your role from unrealistic expectationsAnd why shaking knees don't invalidate strengthIf you've felt stretched, inadequate, or unsure lately—this episode may help you see that discomfort differently.

This podcast is supported entirely by you, the listener. Without your patronage, none of this is possible. Become a patron of my work for as little as $0.50/week here: https://stoicismpod.com/members -- In this episode I reset Practical Stoicism back to its foundations and begin a new chapter for the show by returning to the classical texts themselves. I explain why this version of the podcast will move deliberately across the Stoic corpus rather than reading a single work straight through, drawing from Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, Epictetus, Musonius Rufus, and, where possible, the early Greek Stoics like Zeno of Citium, Chrysippus, and Cleanthes. From there, I focus on Meditations 2.1, one of the most concise and powerful passages in Meditations, using George Long's translation. I explain why Marcus is so often misunderstood, why he should be read as a deeply committed practitioner rather than a philosophical instructor, and why Meditations was never meant to teach Stoicism to anyone but Marcus himself. We then unpack what Marcus is really doing in this meditation: preparing himself to meet difficult people, refusing to moralize or dehumanize them, and grounding his response in the Stoic claim that ignorance of good and evil (virtue and vice) is the root of wrongdoing. I explain why, in Stoicism, there is only one good and one evil, how this reframes resentment and anger, and why Marcus sees hostility toward others as fundamentally anti-social and contrary to Nature. The episode closes by showing how Stoicism combines sympathy, personal responsibility, and moral resolve, and why caring for others is not optional if one is genuinely pursuing virtue. This is not a philosophy of withdrawal or toughness for its own sake, but a demanding ethical system aimed at producing better human beings. Key takeaways from this episode include: Why Meditations is a private practice document, not a Stoic instruction manual, and how misunderstanding this leads to shallow readings How Meditations 2.1 reveals the Stoic view that vice is ignorance, not malice, and why this matters for how we treat others Why Stoicism is fundamentally pro-social, and why turning away from others undermines the pursuit of virtue itself If you'd like to provide feedback on this episode, or have question, you may do so as a member. Email sent by non-members will not be answered (though they may be read). This isn't punitive, I just cannot keep up. Limiting access to members reduces my workload. You're always invited to leave a comment on Spotify, member or not. Thanks for listening and have a great day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 58 finds Kristen Ziman and Sylvia Moir digging into Stoic philosophy through the accessible lens of Ryan Holiday, with a practical focus on leadership and daily life. Drawing from Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, James Clear, and others, they explore Holiday's three core pillars—journaling, reading, and stillness—as tools for self-examination rather than self-expression. Kristen shares how writing helps her slow down thinking, confront reactivity, and gain clarity, while Sylvia connects Stoic practices to small, consistent actions that build well-being over time. Together, they emphasize that leadership growth doesn't come from grand gestures, but from simple, disciplined habits practiced daily—inviting listeners to pick just one pillar and start.

This episode is a replay from The Existential Stoic library. Enjoy! Are you anxious? Do you know what causes your anxiety? What can you do to overcome your anxiety or depression? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss anxiety, depression, and what might help.Subscribe to ESP's YouTube Channel! Thanks for listening!  Do you have a question you want answered in a future episode? If so, send your question to: existentialstoic@protonmail.com

Would the Stoics agree with Mel Robbins' Let Them Theory? In today's episode, Mel Robbins sits down with Ryan to look at The Let Them Theory through a Stoic lens. They discuss what Marcus Aurelius would really say about letting go, where acceptance becomes strength, and why so much of our stress comes from fighting things that were never in our control to begin with. Ryan and Mel talk about jealousy and comparison, why letting go does not mean giving up, and learning how to protect your energy. Mel Robbins is the creator and host of the award-winning The Mel Robbins Podcast, one of the most successful podcasts in the world, and a #1 New York Times bestselling author. The Let Them Theory was the top selling book of 2025 according to Publisher's Weekly, with +7 million copies sold within nine months of its release date. It is on pace to have the best non-fiction book launch of all time. She is also the author of the multimillion-copy-selling The 5 Second Rule, The High 5 Habit, and seven #1 audiobook releases on Audible.Tune into The Mel Robbins Podcast on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify Follow Mel Robbins on Instagram and TikTokPick up a signed copy of The High 5 Habit by Mel Robbins at The Painted Porch: https://www.thepaintedporch.com/Grab a copies of Mel Robbins' other books: The Let Them Theory and The 5 Second Rule It's not too late to join The Daily Stoic New Year New You challenge! Learn more and sign up today at dailystoic.com/challenge.

Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, Food for Thought podcast remains listener-supported. To support this work and receive perks and exclusive engagement, please consider becoming paid subscriber (but don't go anywhere if you're a free subscriber)!Welcome to 2026—and to the 20th anniversary year of Food for Thought! I'm kicking off the new year with an episode about stretching our comfort zones through small, intentional practices that help us live with more clarity, resilience, and purpose.In this episode, I explore:* Why the idea of “doing hard things” isn't new at all—and how it's rooted in Stoic philosophy* What thinkers like Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius actually meant by hardship (hint: it wasn't suffering for suffering's sake)* How we can manifest this ancient practice in our modern lives* Why trends like cold plunges miss the point if we focus only on promised (and alleged) health benefits* How Dry January fits perfectly into this framework—not as a detox or moral stance, but as an experiment in awareness, habit, and choiceI also reflect on looking back at 2025—what I learned, what I practiced, what I shared with you—and why I still believe that setting intentions (whether for 24 hours or 365 days) is a powerful way to orient our lives.If you're feeling curious about:* Doing something different this year* Letting go of what's familiar just long enough to learn from it* Or giving yourself a gentle nudge instead of a total overhaul…this episode is for you.

Join me for part 10, the final chapters, of a reading and discussion of Meditations, one of the most influential works of Stoic philosophy, by Marcus Aurelius – Roman Emperor and philosopher. In this series we'll explore the core tenants of Stoicism, examining its emphasis on virtue, reason, and acceptance. Exclusive Content and Ways to Support: Support me on Substack for ad-free content, bonus material, personal chatting and more! https://substack.com/@monicaperezshow Become a PREMIUM SUBSCRIBER on Apple Podcasts for AD FREE episodes and exclusive content! True Hemp Science: https://truehempscience.com/ PROMO CODE: MONICA Find, Follow, Subscribe & Rate on your favorite podcasting platform AND for video and social & more... Website: https://monicaperezshow.com/ Substack: https://substack.com/@monicaperezshow Rumble: https://rumble.com/user/monicaperezshow Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/MonicaPerez Twitter/X: @monicaperezshow Instagram: @monicaperezshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With special guest Longinus, the boys drink and review a Christmas ale from Great Lakes Brewing, then discuss stoicism. It's not what you think. It doesn't mean that you go through life with no emotions. There are two classic sources for Stoicism: Greek and Roman. But the Greek version only comes second hand. We don't have any of the original sources. We do have primary sources for the Roman version of stoicism, most notably from Marcus Aurelius and Seneca. Stoics believe in a "providential structure of the world" and try to live their lives accepting the ordered, rational structure of nature. They try to accept things as they are and order their lives according to four basic virtues: Justice Courage Wisdom, and Temperance A stoic wants to align his own life to the logos. Stoicism seems to be experiencing a bit of a revival of interest. Why? Join us for a deep dive into this fascinating topic.

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism. This is another Stoic Quotes edition, where we reflect on a single passage and its meaning for everyday life. In this episode, we turn to Marcus Aurelius and a note from Meditations 10.37: “Learn to ask of all actions, ‘Why are they doing that?' Starting with your own.” In another translation, he adds: “What is his point of reference here? But begin with yourself.”Marcus is reminding himself that frustration often comes from rushed judgments. We often assume that others act to inconvenience or offend us when, in reality, they are guided by their own pressures, habits, and priorities. The Stoic task is to pause and question the story we tell ourselves, while first turning that same scrutiny inward. Have I acted like this before, and why?This short reflection connects directly to the Stoic disciplines of Assent and Action. We cannot control what others do, but we can examine our judgments and choose a response rooted in patience rather than impulse. Practiced consistently, this habit softens irritation, reduces conflict, and helps us meet daily interactions with more understanding and restraint.For more, check out this related article with quotes on dealing with frustrating people:https://viastoica.com/how-to-deal-with-frustrating-people/And if you're looking for more Stoic sayings, visit viastoica.com, where you'll find hundreds of quotes with full references to the original texts:https://viastoica.com/stoic-quoteshttps://viastoica.com/marcus-aurelius-quoteshttps://viastoica.com/epictetus-quoteshttps://viastoica.com/seneca-quotesMake sure to subscribe for more Stoic Quotes episodes every Friday, as well as our Tuesday interviews and longer discussions.Support the showhttps://viastoica.comhttps://viastoica.com/stoic-life-coachinghttps://viastoica.com/benny-vonckenhttps://x.com/ViaStoicainfo@viastoica.comProduced by: badmic.com

The Dean's List with Host Dean Bowen – As a new year begins, ancient wisdom meets modern resolve. Drawing from Eisenhower, Socrates, Marcus Aurelius, and Aristotle, this reflection explores why most resolutions fail and how lasting change is formed. True goals grow through humility, daily practice, and steady habits that shape character, purpose, and hope over time...

Join me for part 9 of a reading and discussion of Meditations, one of the most influential works of Stoic philosophy, by Marcus Aurelius – Roman Emperor and philosopher. In this series we'll explore the core tenants of Stoicism, examining its emphasis on virtue, reason, and acceptance. Exclusive Content and Ways to Support: Support me on Substack for ad-free content, bonus material, personal chatting and more! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://substack.com/@monicaperezshow⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Become a PREMIUM SUBSCRIBER on Apple Podcasts for AD FREE episodes and exclusive content! True Hemp Science: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://truehempscience.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ PROMO CODE: MONICA Find, Follow, Subscribe & Rate on your favorite podcasting platform AND for video and social & more... Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://monicaperezshow.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Substack: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://substack.com/@monicaperezshow⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Rumble: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://rumble.com/user/monicaperezshow⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/MonicaPerez⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter/X: @monicaperezshow Instagram: @monicaperezshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most people think discipline is about willpower. Ryan Holiday knows better — it's about habit. After writing multiple bestselling books on Stoicism and spending decades studying history's highest performers, the author of The Obstacle Is The Way and Ego Is The Enemy has cracked the code on why the world's hardest workers aren't just talented or lucky. They've built systems that make discipline inevitable. In this raw conversation, Ryan breaks down the exact frameworks used by Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and Epictetus to stay calm under fire, make sharper decisions under pressure, and most importantly — get things done. We dive into why discipline isn't something you are but something you do, how the Stoics battled procrastination (Seneca said all fools are always getting ready to start), and why negative visualization beats positive manifestation every time. Ryan reveals his actual research process (analog note cards, not AI shortcuts), why he reads the same books over and over, and how to inoculate yourself against audience capture when everyone's telling you what to create. But this isn't theory — it's applied philosophy. We get into why waking up early is useless if you stay up till 2 AM, how to make hard things black and white so you can't rationalize exceptions, and why your calendar should have large blocks of white space, not meetings. Ryan walks through his panic rules from coaching the LA Rams, why ego destroys more empires than external obstacles, and how he went from running publicity stunts and media manipulation campaigns to building one of the most disciplined creative practices in the world. If you've ever felt like discipline is this vague thing you either have or don't, or if you're tired of procrastinating on the life you know you should be building, this episode will change how you think about work, focus, and what it actually takes to win. Protect what you own. Next makes it fast, simple, and painless. Check it out: https://nextinsurance.com/codie ___________ 00:00:00 Introduction 00:01:06 Panic Rules: What To Do When Everything Falls Apart 00:03:05 Discipline Now, Freedom Later: The Labor Will Pass 00:07:37 The Simplest Daily Habit to Build Discipline 00:11:59 Large Uninterrupted Blocks of Time: The Secret to Success 00:16:09 Procrastination is Arrogant: It Assumes You Have Forever 00:22:39 Enjoying the Journey: Why the Work Matters More Than the Reward 00:28:22 Negative Visualization: Why the Stoics Planned for the Worst 00:33:10 The Note Card System: How Ryan Remembers Everything 00:34:52 You Must Love Learning If You Would Possess It 00:43:14 Know Thyself: The Oracle of Delphi's Most Important Command 00:46:05 Ego is the Enemy: How It Destroys Success 00:53:16 The Power to Have No Opinion 01:00:06 Haters, Criticism, and the Statistical Certainty of Dislike 01:18:04 Audience Capture: When Your Audience Has You 01:09:04 From Marketing Manipulator to Stoic Philosopher 01:15:17 The Corner Office Phenomenon: Looking Down the Hall 01:17:01 Are Humans Contagious? Culture, Values, and Becoming Who You Spend Time With 01:06:44 Should We All Get a Donkey? Life Lessons from the Ranch 01:21:15 Final Reflections: The Path That's Yours Alone ___________ MORE FROM BIGDEAL

This week on Acta Non Verba, I’m discussing the common practice of making New Year's resolutions, citing that 80% of people fail within two weeks. Rather than repeating the cycle, I have four transformational questions to help leaders align their goals with their vision and purpose. This episode provides an insight into the philosophies, tactics, and strategies used by successful leaders to overcome adversity and lead extraordinary lives. 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.

Let's focus on getting better. Let's get serious about stuff we've put off. Let's lend a helping hand. Let's “fight to be the person philosophy tried to make us,” as Marcus Aurelius said.Make 2026 the year where you finally bring yourself closer to living your best life. No more waiting. Demand the best for yourself. The Daily Stoic New Year New You challenge begins January 1, 2026. Learn more and sign up today at dailystoic.com/challenge.

Send us a textDo you experience overwhelming stress because you must handle numerous tasks while feeling like your time supply is insufficient? The episode presents ancient Stoic teachings that help listeners eliminate distractions to concentrate on essential things.We'll explore:Your limited existence brings you freedom instead of creating sadness.Marcus Aurelius presents a basic inquiry which helps people stay focused on what matters.The Dichotomy of Control: how to stop worrying about things you can't changeThe experience of discomfort serves as an indicator which shows you are working on important tasks.You can start your focus recovery by taking one essential step during the current day.The episode draws its knowledge from Marcus Aurelius, Seneca and Epictetus to teach people about performing essential tasks. 

Send us a textThe TL;DR, or the TL;DL for today is this: it doesn't matter what your identity is or what your struggle is, what your past is, as long as you become a person who embraces the virtues of humility, gratitude, and kindness. So be humble, grateful, and kind. Kind to yourself, kind to others. When you're kind to yourself, you can love yourself. You can be free to love yourself, free to love others. And live your best life.All the wealth and power, grandest accomplishments and exploits, mean nothing if you don't have kindness to yourself and others.If you want to hear more, just keep listening to the soothing sounds of this MAIM TIME monologue.Episodes mentioned:#83: Using Humility and Gratitude to Cheat the Game of Life#80: A Prayer to the Ancestors, for Future Generations#77: Marcus Aurelius' Meditations: The Ancient Solution to Your Identity StruggleSupport the show

Join me for part 9 of a reading and discussion of Meditations, one of the most influential works of Stoic philosophy, by Marcus Aurelius – Roman Emperor and philosopher. In this series we'll explore the core tenants of Stoicism, examining its emphasis on virtue, reason, and acceptance. Exclusive Content and Ways to Support: Support me on Substack for ad-free content, bonus material, personal chatting and more! ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://substack.com/@monicaperezshow⁠⁠⁠⁠ Become a PREMIUM SUBSCRIBER on Apple Podcasts for AD FREE episodes and exclusive content! True Hemp Science: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://truehempscience.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ PROMO CODE: MONICA Find, Follow, Subscribe & Rate on your favorite podcasting platform AND for video and social & more... Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://monicaperezshow.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ Substack: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://substack.com/@monicaperezshow⁠⁠⁠⁠ Rumble: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://rumble.com/user/monicaperezshow⁠⁠⁠⁠ Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/MonicaPerez⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter/X: @monicaperezshow Instagram: @monicaperezshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join me for part 8 of a reading and discussion of Meditations, one of the most influential works of Stoic philosophy, by Marcus Aurelius – Roman Emperor and philosopher. In this series we'll explore the core tenants of Stoicism, examining its emphasis on virtue, reason, and acceptance. Exclusive Content and Ways to Support: Support me on Substack for ad-free content, bonus material, personal chatting and more! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://substack.com/@monicaperezshow⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Become a PREMIUM SUBSCRIBER on Apple Podcasts for AD FREE episodes and exclusive content! True Hemp Science: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://truehempscience.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ PROMO CODE: MONICA Find, Follow, Subscribe & Rate on your favorite podcasting platform AND for video and social & more... Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://monicaperezshow.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Substack: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://substack.com/@monicaperezshow⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Rumble: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://rumble.com/user/monicaperezshow⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/MonicaPerez⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter/X: @monicaperezshow Instagram: @monicaperezshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Ryan Holiday sits down with legendary biographer Walter Isaacson for a wide-ranging, deeply thoughtful conversation recorded live at the Texas Tribune Festival. They talk about Walker Percy and The Moviegoer, how Stoicism shows up in fiction, and why the ancient virtues still matter in the modern world. They talk through Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, Epictetus, Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, Viktor Frankl, and why history tends to outlast the noise of the present moment.

THE BARRACKS EMPERORS AND THE ANTONINE PLAGUE Colleague Professor Edward J. Watts, University of California at San Diego. The discussion turns to the "barracks emperors," highlighting Trajan's expansion into Dacia and Hadrian's infrastructure focus. Watts describes Marcus Aurelius's Stoic governance during constant warfare and a devastating smallpox pandemic, which forced Rome to settle German immigrants to repopulate the empire. NUMBER 12

SHOW 12-19-25 THE SHOW BEGINS WITH DOUBTS ABOUTGAVIN NNEWSOM  ON THE AMPAIGN TRAIL FOR 2028... LA 1900 WEST COAST WEATHER AND PORTLAND'S DECLINE Colleague Jeff Bliss, Pacific Watch. Jeff Bliss reports that Nordstrom Rack is leaving downtown Portland, citing high vacancy rates, crime, and homelessness. He also details a massive atmospheric river bringing heavy rain to the West Coast and dangerous Tule fog in California, while analyzing Gavin Newsom's presidential prospects amidst state economic struggles. NUMBER 1 CHINA'S CHIP THEFT AND AI WARFARE RISKS Colleague Brandon Weichert, The National Interest. Weichert discusses China's attempts to upgrade older ASML machines and reverse-engineer chips to bypass sanctions. They also review 2025 lessons, noting that AI in military war games tends to escalate conflicts aggressively toward nuclear options, warning that China may fuse AI with its nuclear command systems. NUMBER 2 ITALY'S ECONOMIC STABILITY AND DEMOGRAPHIC CRISIS Colleague Lorenzo Fiori, Il Giornale. Lorenzo Fiori reports that Italy's economy is stabilizing, with debt under control and bond spreads narrowing close to Germany's levels. While northern Italy remains industrialized, the south suffers from depopulation and climate change. Fiori emphasizes the urgent need for government policies to boost Italy's declining birth rate. NUMBER 3 NUCLEAR PROLIFERATION AND RUSSIAN SANCTIONS Colleague Henry Sokolski, Nonproliferation Policy Education Center. Sokolski criticizes the lifting of sanctions on Russian banks for nuclear projects and highlights the dangers at the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia plant. He warns against potential deals allowing Saudi Arabia and South Korea to enrich uranium, arguing this brings them dangerously close to bomb-making capabilities. NUMBER 4 LANCASTER COUNTY AND A HOLIDAY SPENDING SLUMP Colleague Jim McTague, Author and Journalist. Reporting from Lancaster County, Jim McTague observes a sluggish Christmas shopping season, with consumers buying practical items like gloves rather than expensive packages. While tourist venues like Sight & Sound Theaterremain busy, he predicts a mild recession in 2026 due to rising local taxes and utility costs. NUMBER 5 THE URGENCY OF SOCIAL SECURITY REFORM Colleague Veronique de Rugy, Mercatus Center. Veronique de Rugy argues Social Security must be reformed before trust funds run dry in the 2030s. She contends the system unfairly redistributes wealth from young workers to increasingly wealthy seniors and advocates for capping benefits or means-testing rather than raising taxes or allowing across-the-board cuts. NUMBER 6 NASA'S NEW LEADERSHIP AND PRIVATE SPACE Colleague Bob Zimmerman, BehindtheBlack.com. Bob Zimmerman discusses Jared Isaacman's confirmation as NASA administrator and an executive order prioritizing commercial space. Zimmerman predicts Isaacman might cancel the crewed Artemis II mission due to safety concerns with the Orion capsule, signaling a shift away from government-run programs like SLS toward private enterprise. NUMBER 7 SPACE BRIEFS: ROCKET LAB AND MARS RIVERS Colleague Bob Zimmerman, BehindtheBlack.com. Zimmerman highlights Rocket Lab's record launches and Max Space's new inflatable station module. He notes a European satellite report on sea levels omitted "global warming" references. Additionally, he describes Martian drainage features that resemble rivers and cites a study claiming AI algorithms are exposing children to harmful content. NUMBER 8 THE FALL OF THE REPUBLIC: SULLA TO CAESAR Colleague Professor Edward J. Watts, University of California at San Diego. Watts traces the Republic's fall, starting with the rivalry between Marius and Sulla. Sulla'sbrutal proscriptions and dictatorship traumatized a young Julius Caesar. Watts explains that Caesar eventually concluded the Republic's structures were broken, leading him to seize power to enforce rights, which his assassins misinterpreted as kingship. NUMBER 9 NERO, AGRIPPINA, AND THE MATRICIDE Colleague Professor Edward J. Watts, University of California at San Diego. Professor Watts details the pathology of the Roman emperorship, focusing on Agrippina's maneuvering to install her son Nero. Watts describes Nero's eventual assassination of his mother using a collapsible ship and his pivot to seeking popularity through rigged Olympic victories in Greece before losing control of Rome. NUMBER 10 THE YEAR OF FOUR EMPERORS AND FLAVIAN RULE Colleague Professor Edward J. Watts, University of California at San Diego. Watts analyzes the chaos following Nero's death, where Vespasian seized power after a brutal civil war that burned Capitoline Hill. The segment covers the Flavian dynasty, Titus's destruction of Jerusalem, and Domitian's vilification, concluding with Nerva's coup and the adoption of Trajan to stabilize the succession. NUMBER 11 THE BARRACKS EMPERORS AND THE ANTONINE PLAGUE Colleague Professor Edward J. Watts, University of California at San Diego. The discussion turns to the "barracks emperors," highlighting Trajan's expansion into Dacia and Hadrian's infrastructure focus. Watts describes Marcus Aurelius's Stoic governance during constant warfare and a devastating smallpox pandemic, which forced Rome to settle German immigrants to repopulate the empire. NUMBER 12 SUPREME COURT CHALLENGES TO TARIFF POWERS Colleague Professor Richard Epstein, Hoover Institution. Professor Epstein analyzes potential Supreme Court rulings on the President's use of emergency powers for broad tariffs. He predicts the Court may find the interpretation unconstitutional, creating a logistical nightmare regarding the refund of billions in collected revenues and addressing the complexity of overturning Article I court precedents. NUMBER 13 EXECUTIVE POWER AND INDEPENDENT AGENCIES Colleague Professor Richard Epstein, Hoover Institution. Epstein discusses a Supreme Court case regarding the President's power to fire members of independent boards like the FTC. He fears Chief Justice Roberts will side with executive power, a move Epstein views as an "unmitigated disaster" that undermines the necessary independence of agencies like the Federal Reserve. NUMBER 14 ECONOMIC SLOWDOWN AND CONSUMER SPENDING Colleague Gene Marks, The Guardian. Gene Marksreports on a US economic slowdown, citing contracting architectural billings and falling hotel occupancy. He notes that while the wealthy continue spending, the middle class is cutting back on dining out. Marks attributes inflation to government money circulation and discusses proposals for mandated retirement contributions. NUMBER 15 AI ADOPTION IN BUSINESS AND CONSTRUCTION Colleague Gene Marks, The Guardian. Marks argues that AI is enhancing productivity rather than replacing humans, despite accuracy issues. He highlights AI adoption in construction, including drones and augmented reality for safety. Marks notes that small businesses are eager for these technologies to improve efficiency, while displaced tech workers find roles in smaller firms. NUMBER 16

Join me for part 8 of a reading and discussion of Meditations, one of the most influential works of Stoic philosophy, by Marcus Aurelius – Roman Emperor and philosopher. In this series we'll explore the core tenants of Stoicism, examining its emphasis on virtue, reason, and acceptance. Exclusive Content and Ways to Support: Support me on Substack for ad-free content, bonus material, personal chatting and more! ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://substack.com/@monicaperezshow⁠⁠⁠⁠ Become a PREMIUM SUBSCRIBER on Apple Podcasts for AD FREE episodes and exclusive content! True Hemp Science: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://truehempscience.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ PROMO CODE: MONICA Find, Follow, Subscribe & Rate on your favorite podcasting platform AND for video and social & more... Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://monicaperezshow.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ Substack: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://substack.com/@monicaperezshow⁠⁠⁠⁠ Rumble: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://rumble.com/user/monicaperezshow⁠⁠⁠⁠ Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/MonicaPerez⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter/X: @monicaperezshow Instagram: @monicaperezshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send in a question or comment via text.If you're struggling with panic disorder, health anxiety, OCD, GAD, or other anxiety issues you've may have encountered online content that references Stoicism, warrior philosophy, and Marcus Aurelius. The message: master your emotions, be tough, control your fear through discipline and suffering.But that's not what Marcus Aurelius was actually writing about.In this episode, I dig into what Marcus actually wrote in his Meditations—his personal diary that accidentally survived 2,500 years. When you read his actual words, you see a man repeatedly struggling with the same issues: getting out of bed, dealing with difficult people, managing anger. The repetition isn't proof of mastery. It's evidence of practice.For people with anxiety disorders, the modern misinterpretation of Stoicism can be harmful. Panic disorder, OCD, health anxiety, and GAD are all fueled by attempts to control internal experiences. The therapeutic approaches that work—acceptance and commitment therapy, exposure therapy, mindfulness—work because they teach psychological flexibility, not control.Real courage isn't "I don't feel fear." Real courage is "I feel afraid AND I'm doing this anyway."Topics covered:- What Marcus Aurelius actually wrote (specific passages from Meditations)- Why the "warrior approach" doesn't work for anxiety disorders- The masculine shame trap that keeps men stuck- What Stoicism really teaches about control- Why flexibility beats toughness in anxiety recoveryResources mentioned: The Meditations by Marcus Aurelius (Modern Library translation)---The Disordered Guide to Health Anxiety is here---For full show notes on this episode:https://theanxioustruth.com/333Support The Anxious Truth: If you find the podcast helpful and want to support my work, you can buy me a coffee. Other ways to support my work like buying a book or signing up for a low cost workshop can be found on my website. None of this is never required, but always appreciated! Interested in doing therapy with me? For more information on working with me directly to overcome your anxiety, follow this link.Disclaimer: The Anxious Truth is not therapy or a replacement for therapy. Listening to The Anxious Truth does not create a therapeutic relationship between you and the host or guests of the podcast. Information here is provided for psychoeducational purposes. As always, when you have questions about your own well-being, please consult your mental health and/or medical care providers. If you are having a mental health crisis, always reach out immediately for in-person help.

Join me for part 7 of a reading and discussion of Meditations, one of the most influential works of Stoic philosophy, by Marcus Aurelius – Roman Emperor and philosopher. In this series we'll explore the core tenants of Stoicism, examining its emphasis on virtue, reason, and acceptance. Exclusive Content and Ways to Support: Support me on Substack for ad-free content, bonus material, personal chatting and more! ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://substack.com/@monicaperezshow⁠⁠⁠⁠ Become a PREMIUM SUBSCRIBER on Apple Podcasts for AD FREE episodes and exclusive content! True Hemp Science: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://truehempscience.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ PROMO CODE: MONICA Find, Follow, Subscribe & Rate on your favorite podcasting platform AND for video and social & more... Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://monicaperezshow.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ Substack: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://substack.com/@monicaperezshow⁠⁠⁠⁠ Rumble: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://rumble.com/user/monicaperezshow⁠⁠⁠⁠ Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/MonicaPerez⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter/X: @monicaperezshow Instagram: @monicaperezshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The world needed Marcus Aurelius to become the person we admire and study today. This required conscious and consistent effort on his part. You're no different. And you know it.Make 2026 the year where you finally bring yourself closer to living your best life. No more waiting. Demand the best for yourself. The Daily Stoic New Year New You challenge begins January 1, 2026. Learn more and sign up today at dailystoic.com/challenge.

Did you know that Meditations wasn't the only book that Marcus Aurelius wrote?

Join me for part 6 of a reading and discussion of Meditations, one of the most influential works of Stoic philosophy, by Marcus Aurelius – Roman Emperor and philosopher. In this series we'll explore the core tenants of Stoicism, examining its emphasis on virtue, reason, and acceptance. Exclusive Content and Ways to Support: Support me on Substack for ad-free content, bonus material, personal chatting and more! ⁠⁠⁠https://substack.com/@monicaperezshow⁠⁠⁠ Become a PREMIUM SUBSCRIBER on Apple Podcasts for AD FREE episodes and exclusive content! True Hemp Science: ⁠⁠⁠https://truehempscience.com/⁠⁠⁠ PROMO CODE: MONICA Find, Follow, Subscribe & Rate on your favorite podcasting platform AND for video and social & more... Website: ⁠⁠⁠https://monicaperezshow.com/⁠⁠⁠ Substack: ⁠⁠⁠https://substack.com/@monicaperezshow⁠⁠⁠ Rumble: ⁠⁠⁠https://rumble.com/user/monicaperezshow⁠⁠⁠ Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/MonicaPerez⁠⁠⁠ Twitter/X: @monicaperezshow Instagram: @monicaperezshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Well-being is realized by small steps,” Zeno would say looking back on his life, “but is truly no small thing.”