Podcast appearances and mentions of Marcus Aurelius

Recently reread Ryan Holiday's book, "The Obstacle is the Way." In that book, Holiday outlines the power of transforming those ass kicking life events into triumph. It is all you can do. Love what has happened and learn from it. It all comes down from one powerful quote from Marcus Aurelius.See things for what the are.Do what we canEndure and bear what we mustWhat blocked the path is now the pathWhat once impeded action advances action.The Obstacle is the Way.I also include a pithy quote by Nassim Taleb outlining his version of Stoicism.

In this episode, former Green Beret Chris Lee discusses his new book 'Legacy Forged', designed to help people through intentional planning, identity shifts, and strategic goal setting. The conversation explores the importance of daily consistent actions, overcoming adversity, leveraging meditation and rest for heightened performance, and the practical use of AI in boosting productivity and decision-making. Listeners will gain valuable insights into transforming intentions into actions and fostering self-mastery through rigorous yet attainable protocols. Episode Highlights: 03:42 The Importance of Progress Over Perfection 11:50 The Art of Recovery and Rest 26:38 Gratitude and Mindset Shifts 29:55 The Pursuit of Validation 31:39 Shifting Motivations 36:01 AI in Everyday Tasks 38:04 The Future of AI and Entertainment 41:34 The Importance of Adaptation 52:12 Commitment to Consistency Chris Lee is a former Green Beret turned high-performance coach and business consultant who helps driven individuals and organizations operate at elite levels. With over a decade of service as an 18D Special Forces Medical Sergeant, Chris brings deep expertise in leadership, resilience, and decision-making under pressure. Today, he uses that experience to guide high-achievers in unlocking their full potential, strengthening their mindset, and building legacies that endure. Whether working with executives, teams, or entrepreneurs, Chris is committed to helping others lead with clarity, perform with purpose, and rise to their next level of excellence. Connect with Chris on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/coach_chris.lee/ Purchase “Legacy Forged” here: https://www.amazon.com/Legacy-Forged-90-Day-Command-Discipline/dp/B0F844XH75 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.

"Alles, was wir sehen, ist eine Perspektive - nicht die Wahrheit." Dieser eine Satz von Marcus Aurelius kann dir mehr Gelassenheit schenken als alle Ratgeber zusammen.Warum? Weil er zeigt: Du entscheidest mit deiner Sichtweise, wie die Dinge sind. Niemand sonst.In dieser Folge erfährst du, wie du deine Perspektive trainieren kannst - mit einer einfachen Zug-Metapher, die alles erklärt. Plus: Die drei Schlüsselwege zu mehr stoischer Ruhe im Alltag.Antike Weisheit, die nach 2000 Jahren nichts an Kraft verloren hat. Kurz, auf den Punkt, sofort umsetzbar.Trag Dich hier ein: ⬇️

The thing about power is not so much that it changes you but that it changes the people around you. It changes what they're willing to say to you…and how they say it.

This episode is a replay from The Existential Stoic library. Enjoy! Are you curious about Stoicism? Do you want to be a better person? Do you want to live a happy life? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss Stoicism and how to practice it in daily life.  Link to list used in this episode: 9 Stoic Practices That Will Help You Thrive In The Madness Of Modernity (constantrenewal.com)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.comDanny, Randy, and their good friend, Russell, created a new podcast, CodeNoobs, for anyone interested in tech and learning how to code. Listen to CodeNoobs now online, CodeNoobs-podcast, or wherever you get your podcasts.

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 3638: Ryan Holiday reflects on the brutal yet transformative experience of pushing the body beyond exhaustion to reveal the true seat of strength, the mind. Through pain, struggle, and a complete physical breakdown, he uncovers clarity, emotional peace, and the subtle triumph of inner resilience. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://ryanholiday.net/the-manifestation-of-inner-strength/ Quotes to ponder: "The work I do on my body is not about looks or health. A sculpted body to me is the sign of a sculpted mind." "I promised myself that I would win, that I would finish." "There was no glory in it, I felt awful; worse even than I had in each lap prior." Episode references: Meditations by Marcus Aurelius: https://www.amazon.com/Meditations-Marcus-Aurelius/dp/048629823X The Daily Stoic: https://dailystoic.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Molly Tschang shares how to turn difficult conversations into opportunities to build connections and relationships.— YOU'LL LEARN — 1) The preamble that helps your feedback land well2) How to say no while still being a team player3) What to do when you disagree with the majoritySubscribe or visit AwesomeAtYourJob.com/ep1068 for clickable versions of the links below. — ABOUT MOLLY — Molly Tschang, founder of Abella Consulting and Say It Skillfully® Inc., empowers senior management teams to Win as One. With expertise in over 80 mergers and acquisitions, she has guided executives through the intricate human dynamics of transformational change and growth. Molly helps leaders cultivate mutual commitment, enabling them to excel in complex, high-stakes environments. Through Say It Skillfully, she equips individuals at all levels with the skills to communicate effectively and authentically. Her mission: to empower everyone to be seen, heard, and understood—especially when tackling their most critical challenges. • Book: Say It Skillfully: Speak Up. Make Your Words Matter. Win Together • Free audio book: The Me-You-We Framework • Website: SayItSkillfully.com— RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE SHOW — • Book: I Am: Escape Distractions, Unlock Your Imagination & Unleash Your Potential by Bruce Kasanoff and Amy Blaschka• Book: Meditations: The Timeless Wisdom of Marcus Aurelius on Stoicism and Self-Mastery by Marcus Aurelius— THANK YOU SPONSORS! — • Strawberry.me. Claim your $50 credit and build momentum in your career with Strawberry.me/Awesome• Quince. Get free shipping and 365-day returns on your order with Quince.com/AwesomeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, I reflect on Meditations 4.5 and Marcus Aurelius' effort to habituate acceptance of death as a natural and necessary part of life. Drawing from Marcus' experiences leading Rome through war and plague, I explore how his preoccupation with death wasn't morbid, but practical—an attempt to remain aligned with Nature and his duty within the Cosmopolis. Death, like birth, is part of the universal order, and Stoicism teaches us that fearing it contradicts the very reason and nature we're trying to live in accordance with. I also answer a listener question about the tension between patience and passivity. When someone wrongs us repeatedly, how do we maintain Stoic endurance without becoming doormats? I break down how context and role-based duties shape what it means to act justly, and I offer practical strategies for staying true to Stoic principles while setting boundaries that honor both ourselves and others. Midlife folks, click here: https://stoicismpod.com/midlife Meditations 4.5 Death is such as generation is, a mystery of nature… not a thing of which any man should be ashamed, for it is not contrary to the nature of a reasonable animal, and not contrary to the reason of our constitution. THREE TAKEAWAYS — Death is neither good nor bad—it's a natural process necessary to life itself. — Stoic practice requires continual habituation, especially around fear and mortality. — Setting boundaries is not un-Stoic when done with reason and care for all parties involved. 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

On this episode of The Karen Kenney Show, we're discussing something that so many people struggle with - Asking for help.I'm sharing a powerful passage from Marcus Aurelius' "Meditations" that totally changed my perspective.He basically wrote that we shouldn't be ashamed to need support - just like a soldier who's been wounded might need a comrade to lend a helping hand.Growing up in a blue-collar family, I learned early on that asking for help seemed like weakness.But here's a truth: We're not born knowing how to do every single thing! Remember when we were babies and little kids? We needed help with EVERYTHING - from tying our shoes to brushing our teeth to making a sandwich!So why do we suddenly think that we should know how to handle all of life's complex challenges all by ourselves?I share how trauma and tough upbringings can make us behave in hyper-independent ways – where we hate to ask for ask and definitely don't want to feel like we're “bothering” people.We can also develop this kind of shield that says, "I've got this," when sometimes, we really don't.

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 3638: Ryan Holiday reflects on the brutal yet transformative experience of pushing the body beyond exhaustion to reveal the true seat of strength, the mind. Through pain, struggle, and a complete physical breakdown, he uncovers clarity, emotional peace, and the subtle triumph of inner resilience. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://ryanholiday.net/the-manifestation-of-inner-strength/ Quotes to ponder: "The work I do on my body is not about looks or health. A sculpted body to me is the sign of a sculpted mind." "I promised myself that I would win, that I would finish." "There was no glory in it, I felt awful; worse even than I had in each lap prior." Episode references: Meditations by Marcus Aurelius: https://www.amazon.com/Meditations-Marcus-Aurelius/dp/048629823X The Daily Stoic: https://dailystoic.com/podcast 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 3638: Ryan Holiday reflects on the brutal yet transformative experience of pushing the body beyond exhaustion to reveal the true seat of strength, the mind. Through pain, struggle, and a complete physical breakdown, he uncovers clarity, emotional peace, and the subtle triumph of inner resilience. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://ryanholiday.net/the-manifestation-of-inner-strength/ Quotes to ponder: "The work I do on my body is not about looks or health. A sculpted body to me is the sign of a sculpted mind." "I promised myself that I would win, that I would finish." "There was no glory in it, I felt awful; worse even than I had in each lap prior." Episode references: Meditations by Marcus Aurelius: https://www.amazon.com/Meditations-Marcus-Aurelius/dp/048629823X The Daily Stoic: https://dailystoic.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this podcast we will be talking about how to discover your life purpose from the wisdom of 5 different philosophers. The 5 philosophers we will be talking about for finding purpose in this video are Albert Camus, Marcus Aurelius, Buddha, Lao Tzu and Krishna. Have you ever felt like life's meaning is slipping away, and you're left asking—what's the point? You're not alone. For most of human history, finding purpose was simple. In ancient times, people looked to religion, kings, or societal traditions to define their purpose. Whether you were a farmer, a soldier, or a scholar, your role in life was clear. You were part of something bigger, guided by divine forces or the rules of society. Life had meaning because it was shaped by something beyond you, something you were meant to serve or contribute to. But over time, this certainty began to break down. With the rise of science, reason, and secular ideas, many people stopped relying on religion or tradition to find meaning in life. The world started to look very different, and so did our understanding of purpose and this is where the German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche comes in. He famously said that "God is dead." Now, Nietzsche didn't mean that God literally died, but rather that the old beliefs that gave life meaning were no longer relevant in the modern world. Religion and traditional ways of thinking had lost their hold over people's lives. What followed was a void—a space where the clear answers we once had about life's purpose no longer existed and in this void, many people felt lost. With no higher power or guiding principle to follow, we were left to figure things out for ourselves. Some people found freedom in this new world, embracing the opportunity to shape their own meaning. Yet, for others, the void became overwhelming, leaving them feeling lost, disconnected, and adrift in a world that seemed indifferent, uncaring, and chaotic. This is the challenge we face today: we are free to create our own meaning, but it's not always easy. The search for purpose can feel overwhelming, and sometimes it leads to frustration or emptiness. So, how do we find purpose in a world without clear answers? That's what this video is about. We're about to explore five different philosophies that offer ways to create meaning in life. This video is a mix of Western philosophy, Eastern spirituality, and ancient wisdom, all compiled to help you find your life's true purpose. By blending these diverse teachings, we'll explore how each philosophy offers practical insights that can guide you toward living a more meaningful and fulfilled life in a world that no longer provides clear answers.  So here are 5 Brilliant Philosophers on Discovering Your Life's True Purpose -  01. Albert Camus - Rebel Against the Absurdity of life 02. Marcus Aurelius - Meet life with Virtue and Acceptance 03. Buddha - Finding Purpose In Letting Go 04. Lao Tzu - Finding your Purpose in the flow of your life 05. Krishna - Surrender to the divine I hope you enjoy listening to this podcast and hope that these lessons from 5 Brilliant Philosophers on Discovering Your Life's True Purpose will help you discover your life's true purpose. 

Offenheit und Anpassungsfähigkeit gelten als Stärken – und das sind sie auch. Meistens. Aber es gibt Momente im Leben, da ist das Gegenteil richtig: Da schützt Dich nur die "Sturheit eines Esels" und bringt Dir Dein stumpfes Nein mehr Gelassenheit als jedes Ja.In dieser Folge schauen wir uns drei konkrete Lebensbereiche an – Arbeit, Freundschaft, Besitz – in denen bewusste Verschlossenheit kein Mangel ist, sondern Selbstschutz. Inspiriert von Senecas Weisheit über Loyalität zu sich selbst erkunden wir, wann das Nein-Sagen der Schlüssel zu Deiner inneren Ruhe wird.Denn manchmal ist das stärkste Ja das bewusste Nein zur falschen Sache.Mach's gutLarsMehr für Dich ⬇️E-Mail-Kurs zum Podcast (€0):

This week, writer and chaos agent Nick De Leon joins Chris Stanley and Chirs Faga on High Society Radio for a coast-to-coast session of philosophical detours, Nintendo name debates, and corporate conspiracies. From a possible Mario Bros censorship scandal to Deloitte's shady rise in global consulting, the episode jumps from New York voting mishaps to shirt-folding machines, Steam Decks, and whether Marcus Aurelius was the first "sigma male." Also: a plumbing story you won't forget and geopolitical hot takes you didn't ask for—but definitely needed.Topics Include:Nick & Stanley: The Origin StoryIs LA... Actually Fine Now?The Plumber and the Mario DebateMario Bros vs the World Trade Center?Nick's New York Voting AdventureWait—Nick's Not Mexican?Marcus Aurelius: First Sigma Male?Apple Pricing Rant IncomingThe Shirt-Folding Machine That Almost WorksSteam Deck FeverMarcus Brownlee & Tech YouTubersIsrael, Explained PoorlyChris Is Moving to QatarCorporal Tso's Chicken and the Military Industrial Lunch ComplexDeloitte vs. McKinsey: Corporate Hunger GamesAmerica's 22-Year-Old Terrorism Advisor#HighSocietyRadio #NickDeLeon #ComedyPodcast #GasDigital #MarcusAurelius #MarioBros #SteamDeck #ConsultingConspiracies #NYCComedyDON'T FORGET TO WATCH FAGA'S NEW SPECIAL "BURN AFTER SAYING" ON THE HSR YOUTUBE PAGE!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TxIHJU2LotUSupport Our Sponsors!https://yokratom.com/ - Check out Yo Kratom (the home of the $60 kilo) for all your kratom needs!https://www.smallbatchcigar.com/ Use code GAS10 discount code for 10% off plus 5% rewards points!https://fatdickhotchocolate.net/ Get you a fat dick at fatdickhotchocolate.netHigh Society Radio is 2 native New Yorkers who started from the bottom and didn't raise up much. That's not the point, if you enjoy a sideways view on technology, current events, or just an in depth analysis of action movies from 2006 this is the show for you.Chris Stanley is the on-air producer for Bennington on Sirius XM.A Twitter Chris Really Likes: https://x.com/stanman42069Chris from Brooklyn is a lifelong street urchin, a former head chef and current retiree.Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChrisFromBklynInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisfrombklynFollow Nick De LeonTwitter: https://x.com/nicholasadeleonInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicholasadeleonEngineer: JorgeEditor: TannerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lilkinky69/Executive Producer: Mike HarringtonInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/themharrington/Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheMHarringtonSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on StoicismIn this episode, Brendan interviews his co-host, Benny Voncken, to explore the personal journey that brought him to Stoic philosophy. From a difficult divorce and battles with alcohol to finding strength through books and reflection, Benny opens up about how Stoicism became his lifeline.You'll hear how a moment of crisis in a hotel room sparked a turning point, how reading Marcus Aurelius and Epictetus shaped his outlook, and how Stoicism helped him set boundaries, let go of people-pleasing, and rediscover his sense of purpose. Benny also reflects on the role of love, teaching Stoic Week, and why Epictetus' blunt wisdom gave him the wake-up call he needed.If you're on your own Stoic path or curious where to begin, Benny's story shows that philosophy isn't just a theory — it's a practical companion for real transformation.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

高薪工程師容易成為詐騙目標，為了全面守護市民財產安全，新竹市府與金融機溝建立合作，強化社區聯防，還推出多元防詐策略！更多精彩內容，請收聽《逍遙看世界》6/3特輯節目！（新竹市政府廣告） https://fstry.pse.is/7p4eed —— 以上為 Firstory Podcast 廣告 —— 你是容易焦慮的賓友嗎？ 我最近在圖書館翻到的這本書，或許也適合你！ 《沉思錄》（Meditations）寫於西元 161–180 年 作者馬可・奧理略（Marcus Aurelius）是第 16 任羅馬皇帝，更有「哲學家皇帝」的美稱 這本書大概在講什麼？ 該怎麼降低焦慮、提高達成目標的機率呢？ Let's get started! ❤️ 本集感謝六月壽星 Odette 和 Azure 贊助播出，生日快樂！ 另外，也要感謝 Nancy 再次抖內支持！

It's a good day to be a Geeky Stoics subscriber here on Substack! You all get first access to this week's video conversations with Ryan Holiday of the Daily Stoic. I told you about the trip to Palm Springs, and it was to moderate this panel tackling the differences and overlaps of Stoicism and Objectivism. To recap: Stoicism is ancient Greek and Roman philosophy rooted in self-mastery, emotional regulation, and letting go of things beyond your control. Objectivism took form post-World War II through the philosopher and writer Ayn Rand. It is about self-focus, individual fulfillment, and “rational egoism” or putting yourself first as a matter of rational thought.Ryan Holiday is famed for his books, "The Obstacle Is the Way," "Ego Is the Enemy," "The Daily Stoic," "Stillness Is the Key", “Courage Is Calling” and his new book “Wisdom Takes Work” comes out this fall. Millions of people receive his daily emails and podcasts, and most of what Geeky Stoics does would not exist without his work. It was cool to meet him and ask him some questions about the life well-lived. Thanks for reading Geeky Stoics! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.Some takeawaysHoliday framed freedom as the opportunity for self-discipline. Drawing on figures like Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, and even Eisenhower, he emphasized that inner liberty (freedom from passion, chaos, and internal compulsion) is central to Stoic ethics. Stoicism holds that true freedom is achieved through mastery of the self, rather than simple absence of constraint. In Ryan's books, he has called this “the empire between your ears”. Even a person living in chains cannot be truly forced to vacate their freedom of thought and action. For Stoics, unchecked liberty is a quick road to being enslaved by desire, and so self-restraint is not seen as a limitation but as a form of empowerment.This is an area I tend to strongly agree on. Richards, representing Ayn Rand's Objectivism, defined freedom as freedom from coercion (force or fraud) that threatens one's ability to think, act, and pursue personal happiness. Objectivism prioritizes the individual's rational mind as the highest tool for flourishing, arguing that the pursuit of joy and personal achievement is the purpose of freedom. It's not dismissive of self-discipline, and so Richards emphasized how a person can harm oneself with the pursuit of constant vice. Enjoying the panel discussion? Now check out our 1-on-1 interview with Ryan Holiday about parenting, Hamilton, and philosophyOverlap and Contrast on the panel Both philosophies value rationality, personal responsibility, and civic virtue. However, Stoicism is inward-facing, concerned with moral resilience and inner peace, while Objectivism is outward-facing, focused on creative achievement and individual flourishing.Holiday illustrated Stoic freedom with the example of Epictetus—a slave who, despite literal bondage, enjoyed greater internal freedom than Rome's elite who had to suck up to tyrants to make a living. Richards acknowledged this but argued that Objectivism's strength lies in its systematic approach, beginning with metaphysics and epistemology, and ending in ethics and politics centered on the primacy of the individual. It's very anti-collectivist. That point on collectivism is important because it's perhaps the most pointed area of disagreement. Most Stoics would say that all “goods” must be considered for the whole of a community. Objectivists, or Ayn Rand, did not believe “the public” even exists. Her philosophical focus was on living, breathing things, and she rejected the notion that the disjointed “we” was a thing worthy of acknowledgement. I am alive. The “public” is not. I have interests. The public does not. Stoics don't buy this, especially not Ryan Holiday. Now, go enjoy the discussion and tell us what you thought in the comments below. New on YouTube from Geeky Stoics This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.geekystoics.com

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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.

Why You Should Listen More and Speak Less – Wisdom from Zeno of CitiumStoic Quote Series – Via Stoica PodcastIn this episode of the Via Stoica Podcast, we go back to the roots of Stoicism — to Zeno of Citium, the founder of the philosophy. Long before Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and Epictetus, Zeno taught the importance of listening, observation, and self-mastery.We reflect on one of his most powerful quotes:“The reason why we have two ears and only one mouth is that we may listen the more and talk the less.”– Zeno of Citium, Lives of Eminent Philosophers, Book 7.23Why is real listening so rare today? How can we practice presence and attention in everyday conversations? And how does this quote connect to Stoic ideas like impressions, cosmopolitanism, and inner virtue?This episode explores the Stoic art of listening and how to live it, not just talk about it.

A man does not sin by commission only – but often by omission. – Marcus Aurelius   Music:   Baha Men – Who Let The Dogs Out (Lyrics) (youtube.com)    Do you have a psychopath in your life?  The best way to find out is read my book.  BOOK *FREE* Download – Psychopath In Your Life4  […]

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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.