Podcast appearances and mentions of Marcus Aurelius

Send us a textWhat if one hard thing a day could change your life? Not a grand gesture—just a cold shower, a 45-minute walk in the sleet, or a two-minute meditation before opening your inbox. That simple shift became the turning point for our guest, Anthony Johnson, who opens up about anxiety, loss, and how a season of discipline rebuilt his confidence from the ground up.We dig into the power of the right people—those who celebrate your wins, support you when it's heavy, and challenge you when you drift. Anthony shares how he traded energy drainers for a tribe of “illuminators,” the men and women who keep him honest and inspired. You'll hear the “food vs. poison” framework for relationships, a three-part litmus test for your inner circle, and a reminder that fit matters more than labels. When your environment lifts you, consistency becomes natural.Identity gets practical here. We walk through daily “I am” statements tied to your key roles and core values, a simple power list to win the day, and breathwork plus meditation to quiet the noise before it gets loud. Stoicism threads through the conversation—Marcus Aurelius, The Obstacle Is The Way, and the timeless nudge to return to the present. We also swap book recommendations that sharpen judgment and courage, from The War of Art to Man's Search for Meaning.At the heart of this episode is love: loving your people, loving the work of becoming, and protecting the “golden goose” that lays the eggs you care about most—purpose, respect, freedom, and real connection. If you're ready to tighten your circle, speak to your future self with conviction, and stack small, hard wins, this is your blueprint. Listen, try one hard thing today, and tell us what you chose. If this resonated, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with three friends who are ready to level up.Support the showhttps://bamboolab3.com/

Life is unpredictable, but what if you could face every challenge with unshakable strength and clarity? In this solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh dives into Stoicism and shares seven key lessons from the ancient philosophy, inspired by Ryan Holiday and “The Daily Stoic.” From avoiding unnecessary suffering to breaking free from the victim mindset, Darius unpacks timeless wisdom from Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, and more. Tune in for a deep dive into how Stoic principles can help you navigate life with resilience, self-awareness, and purpose. In this episode, Darius will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Stoicism and Personal Journey (01:27) Seven Stoic Principles for a Better Life (02:48) The Importance of Not Complaining (05:14) Avoiding Comparison with Others (07:37) The Power of Listening (10:29) Judgment and Empathy (12:51) Finding Balance and Temperance (16:45) Energy and Living a Good Life (18:39) Reflections on Life Experiences Sponsored by: Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Business Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.  Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness.  Connect with Darius: Website: https://therealdarius.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine  Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708 Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on StoicismIn this episode of the Via Stoica Podcast, we reflect on a powerful line from Seneca's Letters to Lucilius, Letter 12: On Old Age:“How nice is it to have outworn one's desires and left them behind.”Seneca, Letters to Lucilius, Letter 12Seneca's words remind us that there's peace in growing beyond our old desires. What many see as loss, fewer passions, less drive, a quieter rhythm of life, can instead be freedom. The Stoics teach that as we age, we shed the compulsions that once ruled us and move closer to calm, reason, and virtue. Seneca himself wrote this late in life, finding new joy not in chasing but in observing, not in striving but in understanding.This reflection connects deeply with Epictetus' warning not to let our wants drive us, and with Marcus Aurelius' reminder to “be content with what nature gives.” It points to the Stoic discipline of Desire, learning to want only what's up to us, and to the discipline of Assent, choosing which thoughts and impulses deserve our attention.So what can we take from Seneca's view on aging today?Learn to see detachment not as loss but as liberation.Recognize how changing desires can open space for peace and reflection.Use each stage of life to align more closely with virtue rather than vanity.Seneca invites us to see old age not as a decline but as a refinement, the quiet strength that comes when we finally stop running after what never mattered.For more, check out this related article with quotes on dealing with death:https://viastoica.com/10-seneca-quotes-on-death/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 to 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

Lisa Burke on Today Radio explores timeless lessons from the philosopher emperor at Trier's state exhibition with Dr Viola Skiba and Helena Huber. Across the border from Luxembourg, in Germany's oldest city, two of Trier's leading museums, the Rheinisches Landesmuseum and the Stadtmuseum Simeonstift, have joined forces for an extraordinary state exhibition on Marcus Aurelius. This collaborative showcase invites visitors to explore one of Rome's most fascinating figures: the Philosopher Emperor whose reflections on Stoicism and virtue continue to inspire thinkers, leaders, and citizens nearly two thousand years later. In this episode Lisa Burke speaks with Dr. Viola Skiba, Director of the Stadtmuseum Simeonstift, and Helena Huber, Curator at the Rheinisches Landesmuseum Trier. Together, they unpack the meaning of good governance: what makes a good leader? And for whom? This is a question as urgent today as it was in the Roman Empire. “Marcus Aurelius is remembered as the ‘good emperor',” explains Huber. “But his reign was far from peaceful. His stoic philosophy guided him through wars, plague, and political turmoil — and it still offers lessons for ethical leadership today.” Dr. Skiba adds: “The question of good governance is universal and timeless. From antiquity to our modern democracies, people have always asked: what makes a good ruler, and for whom?” The exhibition is divided between the two museums. The Landesmuseum explores Marcus Aurelius: Emperor, Commander, Philosopher, combining archaeological treasures with philosophical interpretation. The Stadtmuseum complements this with What Is Good Government? Here, they examine ideals of leadership, justice, and representation through history including striking medieval imagery where kings symbolically kissed or even shared a bed to show peace and trust to their people. Beyond the exhibition's intellectual richness, visitors can immerse themselves in Trier's extraordinary Roman heritage: the Porta Nigra, vast thermal baths, and some of Europe's most important mosaics. As Huber puts it, “The Romans left us their Instagram of the time; images and monuments showing how they wanted to be remembered.” For today's audiences, Marcus Aurelius is more than a historical figure. His Meditations, a private diary of self-discipline, justice, and humility, continue to offer a mirror for leadership and citizenship in the 21st century. “Peace, justice, prosperity and the common good: these are still the foundations of what we all seek,” says Skiba. “Marcus Aurelius helps us remember that good governance begins with virtue.” https://www.trier-info.de/en/package-offers/marc-aurel-2025

We discussed some fascinating quotes from this Stoic Roman Emperor who sought to live a virtuous life. Much of his advice to himself can be helpfully applied to us in our life lived with and for Jesus.

This week's dare is all about swapping certainty for curiosity.Because the truth is — every bold move, every new chapter, every unexpected success… starts with one small “what if?”In this episode, Michelle talks about how following curiosity (instead of waiting for clarity) has shaped her own career — from leaving construction to building She Who Dares Wins, to now stepping into filmmaking with zero guarantees and a whole lot of faith.You'll also hear stories from two incredible women who dared to follow the pull of curiosity and built something extraordinary:Kelsey Erickson, who went from having no plan at all to leading athlete welfare at USA Cycling — simply by saying yes to what sparked her interest.Lucy Thompson, a tattoo artist whose curiosity about scar tattoos led her to build a national charity offering free 3D nipple tattoos for breast cancer survivors.Together, these stories prove that curiosity isn't about knowing — it's about trusting.And it's often the start of everything worth doing.This Week's Key TakeawaysCuriosity beats clarity.Waiting until you “have it all figured out” kills momentum. Follow what feels alive — not what's logical.The Stoic lesson:You can't control the outcome, only how you show up for what's in front of you. (Marcus Aurelius had it right.)Your brain is built for it.Research shows curiosity activates your dopamine system — the same one linked to motivation and learning. You're wired to explore.Curiosity creates resilience.It's the mental version of strength training. Every time you step toward something new, you're rewiring your brain to handle more uncertainty.Small sparks lead to big shifts.Lucy's entire career pivot started with one question: “Why is this happening?”Kelsey's began with one “yes.”

We discussed some fascinating quotes from this Stoic Roman Emperor who sought to live a virtuous life. Much of his advice to himself can be helpfully applied to us in our life lived with and for Jesus.

He was bishop of Hierapolis in Phrygia of Asia Minor, during the reign of Marcus Aurelius, a persecutor of Christians. During a pagan festival, Abercius was instructed by an Angel to throw down the idols of Apollo and other pagan gods. When his work was discovered, the people of the city were outraged; but instead of hiding, the bishop went to the marketplace and openly confessed the Christian faith. The people grew angrier still, but when Abercius healed three possessed men they were amazed and listened to him more closely. He preached the Faith with such power that the entire city and surrounding countryside became Christian.   These miracles reached the ears of the Emperor, whose daughter was suffering from demonic possession. The Emperor summoned Abercius to Rome, where he was enabled to cast out the spirit and perform several other miracles. The Empress offered him a large reward of gold for healing her daughter, but he would not accept it. On his way home, he was instructed in a vision to travel to Syria. He travelled first to Antioch and surrounding cities, then as far as Mesopotamia, proclaiming Christ and teaching the faith everywhere he went. No other bishop of his time travelled so widely in the service of the Gospel; for this reason he is called Equal to the Apostles.   After several years he returned to Phrygia, where he lived the remainder of his life in peace, shepherding his flock.

Zuzana a Ivana se tentokrát setkaly skrze kontribuční budku na trase Brno-Praha a probíraly, co se jim líbí na houbách, bramborách a lidech z minulosti. Všechny díly podcastu Buchty můžete pohodlně poslouchat v mobilní aplikaci mujRozhlas pro Android a iOS nebo na webu mujRozhlas.cz.

Zuzana a Ivana se tentokrát setkaly skrze kontribuční budku na trase Brno-Praha a probíraly, co se jim líbí na houbách, bramborách a lidech z minulosti.

Du bist gestresst. Jeden Tag. Die ganze Zeit?Dein Kopf läuft auf Hochtouren, Deine Gedanken rasen.Marcus Aurelius war Kaiser von Rom - Kriege, Intrigen, Seuchen, der Druck über Millionen zu herrschen.Wenn jemand einen Grund hatte, gestresst zu sein - dann er.Trotzdem fand er innere Ruhe.3 stoische Regeln:✓ Warum Du nur bewerten solltest, was in Deiner Macht steht✓ Wie Du in Sekunden zu Dir selbst zurückkehrst✓ Warum Vergänglichkeit Frieden bringt (nicht Angst)Deine innere Ruhe hängt nicht von der Außenwelt ab. Sie liegt in Dir.Viel Spaß beim HörenLarsPS: Über mich findest Du hier. ✌️⬇️NEWSLETTER + 7 stoische Übungen zum Start per E-Mail(€0):

In the third installment of Jeff Krasno's Stoicism series, we explore how ancient wisdom can help us stay grounded in an age of outrage. Jeff unpacks three essential Stoic practices for modern life: cognitive reappraisal — the art of finding space between stimulus and response; the humility to be wrong — and how letting go of the need to be right opens the door to truth; and building your psychological immune system — cultivating resilience through small doses of adversity. Drawing on the teachings of Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius, and Viktor Frankl, Jeff shares how these timeless ideas can transform how we perceive events, manage emotions, and move through conflict with calm and clarity. Whether you're seeking to better regulate your emotions, strengthen your mental resilience, or simply find peace in turbulent times, this episode offers practical tools for living with greater equanimity and freedom.

Attorney Luke Carlson explains how homeowners and investors can protect themselves from bad HOAs, understand their rights, and turn risk into opportunity.In this episode of RealDealChat, Jack Hoss sits down with Luke Carlson, founding attorney of LS Carlson Law and author of The Homeowner's Guide to Defending Against Bad HOAs, to uncover what every real estate investor and homeowner needs to know about HOA law.Luke shares how he became one of the nation's leading voices for homeowner rights, the psychology behind “bad boards,” and how to protect yourself when an HOA turns rogue. He also explains why most people misunderstand HOA power, and how smart investors can turn that complexity into opportunity.Here's what you'll learn in this episode:The biggest misconceptions homeowners have about HOAsHow to identify “bad board” personalities before buyingWhen and how to push back legally against an HOAThe difference between fiduciary duty and selective enforcementDue diligence steps every investor should take before buying in an HOAHow new legislation is limiting HOA fines and abuse in CaliforniaSimple ways to assess HOA financial health and riskWhy empathy and professionalism matter when dealing with conflictStories of real homeowners who fought back and wonHow AI and automation are reshaping legal research and HOA law

Modern society stands at a crossroads between integrity and adaptation. In this episode, we explore whether evolving cultural norms erode traditional virtues across martial arts, entrepreneurship, and politics. Drawing from  the voices of the great Stoics, we examine how societal pressure challenges long-held standards and values. We then uncover the essence of the warrior ethos, rooted in wisdom, justice, fortitude, and temperance, through examples from Gladiator, Naruto, and real-world practice. We dissect leadership in the modern age, contrasting authenticity with performative virtue. From Marcus Aurelius to today's influencers, we reveal how social media often rewards image over integrity, urging a return to genuine strength and disciplined conviction.--------- EPISODE CHAPTERS ---------(0:00:00) - Exploring Virtue and Political Integrity(0:08:56) - Unleashing the Warrior Ethos(0:16:39) - Authenticity and the Warrior Mindset(0:28:37) - Foundational Principles in Combat TrainingSend us a text

"All that happens, happens right: you will find it so if you observe narrowly..."This week, I am reading a quote from Meditations by Marcus Aurelius, written around 171 AD.Reflection questions:When you think about a failure during the campaign, how are you observing narrowly for the right things that came out of it?How are you using failures to spark deeper conversations with donors?Reflection on quote:In working with capital campaigns, it's not surprising that I'm well-acquainted with failure as well. A donor event that no one shows up to. A campaign stewardship update that has hardly any opens. A direct mail campaign that goes out later than expected.  As much as I want every activity during a capital campaign to be successful, that's not real life. When failure happens during a time of economic uncertainty, it can feel even more overwhelming. A wise campaign volunteer once told me that a capital campaign is like a riding a wild stallion without a saddle.  There is a lot that is out of our control and that can bring failure. All that happens, happens right.  Notice that Aurelius didn't say, all that happens, happens perfectly.  Or, successfully.  But, he says “right if you observe narrowly.” We can get stuck in embarrassment or paralysis.  We can fear that donors and prospective donors will stop giving to the campaign because of our failure. This fear can be particularly damaging during economic uncertainty.  Instead, we need to have a different mindset about failure. A failure can help us have more honest interactions with donors. For instance, ask donors for suggestions on keeping them updated with the campaign.  Or, a failure can lead to the right conversations with the right donors.  For example, a smaller-than-hoped-for event can open up a more in-depth conversation that wouldn't have been possible if the event was larger. Failures can lead to growth when we have the right attitude, which is the second half of the quote.  Let your aim be goodness in every action.  We don't fail in fundraising because we want to fail.  But we will fail because failure is a part of life. So, we don't aim for perfection or status.  We aim for goodness.  Goodness for the cause that we serve. And, remember, donors don't give to us. They give to the cause through us. They want to see the expansion succeed for the good of the community, which is their community too.This work has entered the public domain.What do you think? Send me a text. To explore small town capital campaign coaching deeper and to schedule an free explore coaching call, visit ServingNonprofits.com.Music credit: Woeisuhmebop

He's known as Rome's philosopher-emperor and faced plague, rebellion and war in the East. Yet Marcus Aurelius ruled with a pen as much as a sword, finding peace in philosophy which still inspires the world today.In this episode of The Ancients, Tristan Hughes is joined by Professor William Stephens to uncover the life, legacy, and stoic philosophy of Marcus Aurelius. From his rise to emperor at the height of Rome's power to his struggles with plague, rebellion, and invasion, they unpack how this philosopher-king embodied the ideals of Stoicism while leading through crisis and ask what Marcus Aurelius' Meditations can tell us about duty, resilience, and the mind of Rome's most thoughtful ruler?MORECommodus: The Gladiator EmperorPax RomanaPresented by Tristan Hughes. Audio editor is Tim Arstall, the producer is Joseph Knight. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.All music courtesy of Epidemic SoundsThe Ancients is a History Hit podcast.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. You can take part in our listener survey here:https://uk.surveymonkey.com/r/6FFT7MK Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a world filled with distractions and endless desires, it's easy to lose sight of what truly matters. But what if the answers to living a more meaningful life were already written in ancient wisdom? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh delves deep into the teachings of Stoicism and how they can help us live with intention and purpose. Drawing inspiration from the timeless wisdom of figures like Marcus Aurelius, he shares insights on how to reduce anxiety, focus on what truly matters, and show up as the best version of ourselves every single day. In this episode, Darius will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Anxiety and Stoicism (02:46) Marcus Aurelius on Perception and Anxiety (06:07) Epictetus: Imagined Anxieties vs. Real Problems (09:04) Seneca: The Power of Imagination (11:53) Living in the Present: True Happiness (14:48) Nature's Control and Personal Responsibility (17:47) Practical Tools for Managing Anxiety The 10-Second-Rule Episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/307-the-10-second-rule/id1555334180?i=1000673543121  Sponsored by: Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Business Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.  Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness.  Connect with Darius: Website: https://therealdarius.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine  Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708 Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Via Stoica Podcast: Stoic Quotes SeriesIn the Stoic Quotes series, we take a look at what the Stoics said and uncover the wisdom they left behind. We explore the writings of Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, Seneca, and more, to see how their lessons still guide us today.In this episode, we reflect on a quote by Epictetus, Handbook (Enchiridion), 37:“If you take on a role that is beyond your powers, you not only disgrace yourself in that role, but you neglect the role that you were capable of fulfilling.”Epictetus reminds us to know our limits and live in harmony with our true nature. Trying to play a part that isn't ours leads to frustration and imbalance. The Stoic lesson here is simple but powerful: fulfillment comes from performing our genuine roles well, not from chasing status or proving ourselves.In this episode, we explore how to recognize when a role no longer fits, how to realign with what truly matters, and why stepping back can sometimes be an act of wisdom rather than failure.If you are looking for more Stoic quotes like this one, visit ⁠viastoica.com⁠, where you'll find hundreds of authentic Stoic sayings with full references to the original texts.⁠https://viastoica.com/stoic-quotes⁠⁠https://viastoica.com/seneca-quotes⁠⁠https://viastoica.com/epictetus-quotes⁠⁠https://viastoica.com/marcus-aurelius-quotes⁠Make sure to subscribe to The Via Stoica Podcast for new Stoic quote episodes every Friday, and our regular Tuesday conversations and interviews. If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating — it helps us reach more like-minded people.Support the show:

In this episode, Zale is joined by Sam Kelly, author of 'Human History on Drugs', to explore the complex morality surrounding drug use throughout history. They discuss the historical context of drug perception, the stigmatization of drug use, and the philosophical views on drugs. The conversation delves into notable historical figures such as Freud, Marcus Aurelius, Shakespeare, and Alexander the Great, examining their relationships with drugs and how these experiences shaped their legacies. Human History on Drugs - https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/747457/human-history-on-drugs-by-sam-kelly/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matthew reads Marcus Aurelius's Meditations and traces how Stoic reflections on fathers, grandfathers, and mothers echo through his own story—childhood abuse, addiction, PTSD, and the hard choice to heal. He connects Marcus's gratitude for simple living and moral discipline to modern life, challenging the narratives that keep us stuck and championing personal agency, boundaries, and compassion. This is a raw, honest solo about grief, family, and rewriting your story—one decision at a time. If you're navigating trauma recovery, parenting, sobriety, or just trying to live with more courage, this one's for you.Content note: mentions of abuse, addiction, suicide.Episode Highlights (for show notes)Marcus Aurelius on learning from parents and grandparentsHow Stoicism reframes overwhelm, grief, and modern chaosChildhood abuse, PTSD, and the choice to stop drinkingRewriting family patterns while parenting with compassionIndividual responsibility vs. limiting group narrativesPractical Stoic takeaways: reflection, boundaries, simpler livingWebsite: www.authormheneghan.com

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 explore the writings of Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, Seneca, and more, to see how their lessons still guide us today.In this episode, we reflect on a quote by Marcus Aurelius, Meditations, Book 4, Number 7:“Choose not to be harmed and you won't feel harmed. Don't feel harmed and you haven't been.”Marcus Aurelius reminds us that our sense of being “hurt” depends on our judgment, not the event itself. By removing the thought “I am hurt,” the pain itself disappears. This is a core Stoic idea about emotional freedom: that while we cannot control what others do or say, we can control our response to it.In this episode, we explore how Stoics understood the process of emotion, from first impressions to assent, and how to apply this in daily life. You'll learn how to pause before reacting, see events for what they are, and gradually weaken the thoughts that lead to anger or distress.If you are looking for more Stoic quotes like this one, visit viastoica.com, where you'll find hundreds of authentic Stoic sayings with full references to the original texts.viastoica.com/stoic-quotesviastoica.com/seneca-quotesviastoica.com/epictetus-quotesviastoica.com/marcus-aurelius-quotesMake sure to subscribe to The Via Stoica Podcast for new Stoic quote episodes every Friday, and our regular Tuesday conversations and interviews. If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating, it helps us reach more like-minded people.Support the show

What happens when the Stoic emperor of self-control meets the divine cowherd of boundless love? From Brahmā's cosmic prank to the gopīs' fearless devotion, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore the art of giving without keeping score—through Stoic insight, Bhakti wisdom, and the moonlit mystery of Kartik's full moon. Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam 10.13.40–43 #BhaktiYoga #MarcusAurelius #SrimadBhagavatam #Stoicism #WisdomOfTheSages ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 ********************************************************************* Join 2025 Kartik Algorithm here: https://chat.whatsapp.com/KOUR66ik34T49YWn4y9QsU

84 MinutesPG-13Stormy Waters is a managing partner of a venture capital firm. The opening words of Marcus Aurelius' "Meditations," which they utilize as a springboard to discuss attitude and emotion for the future, are read by Stormy and Pete.Stormy's SubstackStormy's Twitter AccountPete and Thomas777 'At the Movies'Support Pete on His WebsitePete's PatreonPete's Substack Pete's SubscribestarPete's GUMROADPete's VenmoPete's Buy Me a CoffeePete on FacebookPete on TwitterBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-pete-quinones-show--6071361/support.

In this episode of the Commune Podcast, Jeff Krasno introduces a new four-part series on Stoicism — the ancient philosophy that offers timeless guidance on how to live life with gratitude, virtue, and inner calm.In a world of constant distraction and political turmoil, how do we stay informed and engaged without being consumed by chaos? Drawing from Stoic teachings and meditative practices, Jeff explores how the wisdom of thinkers like Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and Epictetus can help us cultivate resilience, clarity, and inner calm in our daily lives. Each Tuesday for the next four weeks, Jeff shares reflections and practical exercises inspired by Stoicism — lessons designed to help you cultivate presence, emotional balance, and a clearer understanding of what truly matters.

Today I sit down with historian Edward J. Watts and talk about his latest book: The Romans.When we think of “ancient Romans” today, many picture the toga-clad figures of Cicero and Caesar, presiding over a republic, and then an empire, before seeing their world collapse at the hands of barbarians in the fifth century AD.  The Romans does away with this narrow vision by offering the first comprehensive account of ancient Rome over the course of two millennia. Prize-winning historian Edward J. Watts recounts the full sweep of Rome's epic past: the Punic Wars, the fall of the republic, the coming of Christianity, Alaric's sack of Rome, the rise of Islam, the Battle of Manzikert, and the onslaught of the Crusaders who would bring about the empire's end. Watts shows that the source of Rome's enduring strength was the diverse range of people who all called themselves Romans. This is the Rome of Augustus, Marcus Aurelius, and Constantine, but also Charlemagne, Justinian, and Manuel Comnenus—and countless other men and women who together made it the most resilient state the world has ever seen.  BUY THE BOOK HERESUPPORT WESTERN CIV

Episode OverviewSometimes the most remarkable leaders don't arrive at the top by climbing a neatly planned ladder, they stumble, pivot, and rebuild along winding roads. In this deeply personal and unexpectedly funny episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, host Chris Schembra welcomes Julie Peck, a transformative CEO whose story proves that a “curvy path” is not a flaw, it's a strength.Julie's life didn't begin with obvious momentum. She grew up in a household that didn't talk about feelings, in the shadow of a brilliant but stoic father and amid early self-doubt that left her with little sense of self-worth. By her twenties, she found herself adrift, unhappy, financially unstable, stuck in unfulfilling relationships, and ultimately failing out of college. She ended up living in a crumbling apartment above a record store, sleeping on a mattress she salvaged from a frat house dumpster. From the outside, it looked like failure; from the inside, it felt like rock bottom.But Julie didn't stay there. In this conversation, she shares the turning points that changed her trajectory: discovering the courage to face old wounds through therapy and 12-step recovery, deciding to rebuild her education while working full-time, and learning to measure her worth by more than just professional success. Along the way, she tapped into something profound, the ability to take one small action forward even when the long-term plan is unclear.That perseverance reshaped her career. Julie went from customer service to HR innovator to creative director, learning to package her “pile of skills and behaviors” into new opportunities. She took smart risks, like organizing a union drive not to win but to force leadership to listen — and watched those risks lead to promotions and purpose. Ultimately, she rose into C-suite leadership and CEO roles, scaling tech companies, driving triple-digit growth, and building cultures where people thrive. But she never forgot the messy middle or the tools that helped her climb out.Together, Chris and Julie go far beyond résumés and revenue. They unpack what resilience really looks like: the gritty inner work of building self-worth when no one hands it to you, the power of visualizing a future even if you don't know how to get there, and the discipline of balancing the things you must do, should do, and want to do. They talk about how gratitude rewires imposter syndrome, how thanking those who invest in you is a way of saying, “I believe your belief in me.” They explore why everyone — even highly accomplished leaders — is “winging it” every day, and why that's not weakness but reality.For anyone navigating uncertainty, Julie's journey is a masterclass in turning pain into purpose and mistakes into momentum. It's a reminder that your story doesn't have to be perfect to be powerful, in fact, the curve is where character is forged.This episode is a warm invitation to pause, reflect, and reconnect with what matters: your own worth, the people who've lifted you along the way, and the belief that no setback is final. Whether you're rebuilding after a career stumble, leading through change, or simply searching for hope in a hard season, Julie's voice will feel like a steady hand on your shoulder.Stay tuned for part two, where Chris and Julie will dive deeper into leadership in the age of AI, the behaviors that outlast fast-changing technical skills, and how curiosity and gratitude shape the future of work.10 Standout Quotes“I had to organically discover my own self-worth. That's been a 35-year journey, and I'm not done.” — Julie Peck “Everybody is unqualified for whatever is going to come on this day because they've never had this day before. We're all winging it.” — Julie Peck “Don't throw the baby out with the bathwater, even in the hardest seasons, you're good at something. Start there.” — Julie Peck “Imposter syndrome is basically telling the people who invested in you: ‘I don't trust your judgment.' Gratitude flips that script.” — Chris Schembra “The impediment to action advances action; what stands in the way becomes the way.” — Marcus Aurelius (quoted by Chris) “Progress comes from movement, not perfection. Just take one small step forward.” — Chris Schembra “The curvy path is a gift, because every detour teaches you something you'll need later.” — Julie Peck “Skills expire faster than ever; behaviors like curiosity, resilience, and asking better questions endure.” — Chris Schembra “Boundaries are self-worth in action. Saying no is a complete sentence.” — Julie Peck “Connection is the opposite of feeling alone in the world, and it's built one honest conversation at a time.” — Julie Peck 10 Key TakeawaysThe “Curvy Path” Is Normal: Career and life rarely follow a straight line; detours and setbacks are often where resilience is forged. Self-Worth Can Be Built: Therapy, reflection, and courageous action help rewire old narratives of “not enough.” Everyone Feels Like an Imposter: High achievers quietly doubt themselves — knowing this is freeing and normalizing. Gratitude Combats Self-Doubt: Thanking those who invest in you reframes fear and reinforces your value. Skills Fade — Behaviors Last: Curiosity, learning agility, and empathy outlast technical know-how in an AI-driven workplace. Visualize the Long Game: Thinking 15–20 years ahead helps shape better short-term decisions and career pivots. Boundaries Are Essential: Healthy limits protect time, energy, and self-worth, enabling sustainable success. Use Work as a Launchpad, Not an Escape: Achievements can build confidence but shouldn't mask personal growth gaps. Take Brave Micro-Steps: Big change starts with one small action; movement matters more than perfection. Connection Breaks Isolation: Vulnerable storytelling, mentorship, and shared humanity turn loneliness into belonging. 

Send us a textIn this episode of Modern Meditations, Bruce and Justin turn a weekend of budget hotels, dollar rental cars, $12 orange juice, and marathon gels into a masterclass on Stoic expectations. Drawing on Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius, and M. Scott Peck, they explore how life's annoyances, whether waiting in line, traffic tailgaters, or bitter cucumbers, become easier to bear when you anticipate difficulty instead of assuming bliss is normal. From the rugby coach's snake parable to the Roman baths, the conversation blends humor and philosophy to show that while life is full of paper cuts, virtue lies in choosing tranquility over irritation.

What happens when the Stoic emperor of self-control meets the divine cowherd of boundless love? From Brahmā's cosmic prank to the gopīs' fearless devotion, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore the art of giving without keeping score—through Stoic insight, Bhakti wisdom, and the moonlit mystery of Kartik's full moon. Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam 10.13.40–43 #BhaktiYoga #MarcusAurelius #SrimadBhagavatam #Stoicism #WisdomOfTheSages ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 ********************************************************************* Join 2025 Kartik Algorithm here: https://chat.whatsapp.com/KOUR66ik34T49YWn4y9QsU

When you refuse to give up, even when the odds mock you, you begin to uncover superpowers you didn't know you had: resilience, clarity, and a kind of inner gravity that pulls purpose toward you. Marcus Aurelius reminds us, “The soul becomes dyed with the color of its thoughts.”   This is the 'Hot Tub Delivery Guy' episode. Bro moved a hot tub by himself. From the truck to the backyard.  Maybe our greatest work is done when we are alone, with no audience. Is it possible?  Free subscribe to the InspoLetter! It's bespoke inspiration to boost your day, hand delivered to your inbox: www.InspoLetter.com Want to change your life? Then change your perspective. Join us! Topics we cover: Sublimation, trust, patience, skills, decision making, positivity, courage, obstacles, superpowers 

Finance leaders know the struggle of managing endless spreadsheets, juggling data from every corner of the business, and trying to plan for a world that changes by the hour. In this episode, I talk with Julio Martínez, Co-Founder and CEO of Abacum, about how his team is helping finance professionals move from reactive reporting to confident, real-time decision making. Abacum was recently named the fastest growing tech company in Spain by Deloitte after increasing revenue by 6,733 percent in just four years. Julio shares the story behind that growth and explains how finance teams are transforming from back-office operators into true strategic partners. He describes how Abacum's platform helps CFOs and FP&A teams create accurate forecasts, automate manual work, and build scenario models that answer “what if” questions in minutes instead of days. We also talk about the role of AI in finance and why current large language models are not yet reliable enough for quantitative use cases. Julio discusses the need for precision, the importance of a human in the loop, and how new hybrid approaches are shaping the future of financial planning. From Barcelona to New York, his journey reflects the global rise of data-driven finance and the growing strength of Spain's startup ecosystem. Julio also leaves listeners with a thoughtful recommendation, Meditations by Marcus Aurelius, a book that continues to inspire him to stay grounded amid rapid change. If you want to understand how technology is redefining financial planning and how strong foundations can fuel extraordinary growth, this conversation with Julio offers a rare look inside the engine of one of Europe's fastest-rising tech companies.

Send us a textOver the weekend I had my second discussion this year with Professor Subhash Kak on his new book published this year June 12, 2025 Eternal Bharat: Truth, Meaning, and Beauty specifically on its symbolism and insights on India's grand legacy and tradition of artistic creativity and how it relates to the central focus of the Indian sages (rishis) on consciousness especially as it pertains to the literary genius of the Upanishads and why this focus is becoming increasingly relevant for today's society. His reputation precedes himself; Dr. Kak is an Indian American Regents Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Oklahoma State University. He has written over 30 books on a variety of topics from history, linguistics, computation, quantum theory, physics, and for his contributions in so many areas he has received the prestigious Padma Shri award in 2019. He is also a member of the India Prime Minister's Science Technology and Innovation Advisory Council.I am an active history and politics content creator. Check out:1.     My podcast "India Insight with Sunny Sharma" 2.     My YouTube channel is Sunny Sharma@IndiaInsightMovement3.     My blog: https://theenlightenmentdotblog.wordpress.com/?_gl=1*1waj1xz*_gcl_au*ODc0ODQ0OTY2LjE3NTk2MTM0NzI. Stay tuned in for a future discussion with Dr. Kak on Marcus Aurelius's Meditations including its many parallels with ancient Indian philosophy like the Upanishads and other intellectual traditions as well. 

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.In this Stoic Quotes episode, Benny reflects on the words of Seneca from On Providence, section 4:“You are unfortunate in my judgment, for you have never been unfortunate. You have passed through life with no antagonist to face you. No one will know what you were capable of, not even yourself.”Seneca reminds us that trials and obstacles are not punishments but opportunities. Without resistance, we never learn our limits or discover our inner strength. For the Stoics, hardship is the training ground for virtue, a test that sharpens self-knowledge and resilience.Benny explores how this insight connects to the Socratic principle of “know yourself,” the Stoic embrace of adversity as a teacher, and the mindset shift that transforms obstacles from burdens into opportunities for growth. From athletes seeking worthy opponents to Marcus Aurelius' reminder that “the obstacle is the way,” Stoicism teaches us that challenges reveal what we are truly capable of.Practical ReflectionsWhen facing obstacles, pause and ask: What is this teaching me about myself?Reframe difficulties as tests of character rather than punishments of fate.Remember past struggles you overcame; you are stronger than you imagine.For more, check out this related article on overcoming adversity:https://viastoica.com/stoic-freedomAnd 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/seneca-quoteshttps://viastoica.com/marcus-aurelius-quoteshttps://viastoica.com/epictetus-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

In this episode we talk to author Brigid Delaney, whose writing about her alarmingly numerous misadventures in life belies a more serious, intellectual side. Those two sides came together in her book exploring the wellness industry, Wellmania (comedian Celeste Barber plays a version of Delaney in the Netflix series of the same name). She recently took a dive into stoic philosophy, including the 2022 bestseller Reasons Not to Worry, and her upcoming novel – The Seeker and the Sage – is billed as a tale to help us navigate our divided and unstable world. Hosting this conversation – which also covers Delaney’s recent stint as a speechwriter for federal minister Tanya Plibersek – is Good Weekend senior writer Melissa Fyfe.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The moving life and legacy of Rome's great emperor philosopher.  This book guides us through the fascinating life and writings of Marcus Aurelius, Stoic philosopher and Roman emperor. Philosopher William O. Stephens explores Marcus's reluctant rise to power, his marriage, and his efforts to mold his son into a just successor. He examines Marcus's Stoic tenets as he describes the struggles of dealing with a fifteen-year pandemic, the betrayal of a trusted general, social upheaval centered on a new “superstition” (Christianity), and how Marcus's determination to stabilize the empire's borders resulted in strife, broken treaties, and protracted wars. This gripping narrative of Marcus' life, times, and thought, as well as his complex legacy will appeal to all those interested in Roman history. ABOUT THE AUTHORWilliam O. Stephens is professor emeritus of philosophy at Creighton University. His books include Epictetus's Encheiridion: A New Translation and Guide to Stoic Ethics.Buy the book from Wellington Square Bookshop - ​https://wellingtonsquarebooks.com/book/9781836391166

On today's episode, we bring you Part 2 of the powerful Fireside Chat with Ryan Holiday, live from the 2025 Dental Success Summit. Dr. Mark Costes continues the in-depth conversation with Ryan, diving deeper into the core of Stoicism and what it really means to live with courage, discipline, justice, and wisdom. Ryan explains the third grade version of Stoicism, saying it's about understanding that we don't control what happens but we do control how we respond. He brings this idea to life through stories from Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, Seneca, and his own daily practices like cold plunges and early morning runs.  They discuss common misconceptions about Stoicism, the importance of humility in learning, and how wisdom is something earned through experience, curiosity, and consistent effort. Ryan also gives a sneak peek at his upcoming book, Wisdom Takes Work, the final volume in his series on the Stoic virtues, and shares how the virtues interconnect in both leadership and life. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.Immigration is one of the most polarizing topics of our time, stirring emotions, fears, and debates across nations. But how might the Stoics approach it?In this episode of the Via Stoica Podcast, Benny explores immigration through the lens of Stoic philosophy. Drawing from Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, and the Stoic idea of cosmopolitanism, he unpacks how we might see beyond national borders and labels to recognize each other as fellow citizens of the world.Benny examines the natural movement of people, the fears that immigration often provokes, such as economic competition, cultural change, and security, and contrasts these with Stoic principles of justice, compassion, and role ethics. He reflects on Hierocles' circles of concern, the Stoic “view from above,” and what it means to treat strangers as kin.Rather than succumbing to fear and division, Stoicism invites us to build understanding through education, dialogue, and shared humanity. Immigration, seen from this perspective, becomes not just a challenge but an opportunity to practice virtue, unity, and wisdom in our global community.If you've ever wondered how Stoic philosophy can help us reframe modern debates about borders, culture, and identity, this episode offers a thought-provoking starting point.Support the show

This episode is a replay from The Existential Stoic library. Enjoy! Should you pursue success or fulfillment? Is it possible to both succeed and be fulfilled? In this episode, Danny and Randy examine success and fulfillment and ask whether it is possible to have both.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  Danny, 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.

Auto-generated transcript: My brothers and sisters, as I mentioned I think in the reminder on Stoicism, I mentioned Marcus Aurelius who was the Caesar of Rome and an amazing human being. He was unlike any other Caesar that you can think of or read about. He was a stoic and a very wise man. Now… Continue reading Marcus Aurelius’s Rules for a better life

In this episode, I chat with father-son team Matthew and Matteo Storm, who host the Lost Roman Heroes podcast, a bi-weekly dive deep into the overlooked lives and legacies of ancient Rome. They're history buffs with a passion for ancient Rome. Matthew is also the author of several works of historical fiction, based in the Roman empire, the most recent being THE EMPEROR: Heraclius Battles Persia for the Life of Rome.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* How did the Lost Roman Heroes podcast begin?* Travel to Carnuntum and other historic locations.* Matthew's historical fiction set in the Roman empire* What are your favourite quotes from the Meditations of Marcus Aurelius?* How can we be sure Marcus actually wrote the Meditations? * Was it intended for publication?* Why are Hadrian and Herodes Atticus notable by their absence from the list of people Marcus admires in Book One of the Meditations?* Was it really a bad idea for Marcus to appoint Commodus his successor? * Who was Avidius Cassius, the usurper?* Was Faustina the loyal wife Marcus makes her out to be or the scheming and unfaithful one depicted in the histories?Links* Lost Roman Heroes Website * Lost Roman Heroes Podcast* Matthew's Books Thanks 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

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.In this Stoic Quotes episode, Benny reflects on the words of Marcus Aurelius from Meditations, Book 6.16:“And if you can't stop prizing a lot of other things, then you'll never be free.”Marcus reminds himself that true freedom is not found in wealth, possessions, or status—but in learning to stop attaching value to what lies outside our control. For the Stoics, freedom means self-sufficiency, tranquility, and being free from the passions that disturb the soul.Benny explores how this insight connects to the Discipline of Desire and the Stoic pursuit of eudaimonia—a flourishing life rooted in reason and virtue. Marcus, despite being emperor of Rome, knew the danger of craving more: it enslaves us to fortune and leaves us restless.Drawing connections to Epictetus' reminder that only our judgments and actions are truly ours, and Seneca's warnings about wasted time and attachments, this episode shows how the Stoic path to freedom is inward, not outward.Practical ReflectionsExamine what you prize most in life: are these things truly within your control?Practice gratitude for what you already have, instead of longing for what you lack.Remind yourself that all externals are on loan from fortune—when they leave, your character and choices remain.For more, check out this related article with quotes on freedom:https://viastoica.com/stoic-freedom/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

This episode explores the timeless bond between mentors and students, drawing on Plutarch's portraits of statesmen and Marcus Aurelius's personal inventory of gratitude. We trace how wisdom flows not through rivalry but through respect, service, and the steady honoring of those who came before us.Along the way, we see how these ancient lessons still resonate in modern life, where gratitude and humility can transform competition into collaboration.At its heart, it's a meditation on carrying forward the virtues we've inherited, letting our teachers' light shine alongside our own.

Marcus Aurelius - one of my favorite people to ever exist. I think I've read a quote or learned something from him every single day the past 2 years. His work has been an integral part of my life during this time period and has helped shape who I am 2 years later. There will be plenty of his words throughout this series.My links:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jakeboucher_?_t=ZT-8xj9DhfusXn&_r=1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jakeboucher_re?igsh=dXcyYzdzeHJ2a28x&utm_source=qrLinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3qXZhFFTwitter: https://twitter.com/jakeboucher_ Blog: https://20jakeb.medium.com/

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 19:15:00 GMT http://relay.fm/focused/239 http://relay.fm/focused/239 David Sparks and Mike Schmitz Cognitive-behavioral psychotherapist & author Donald J. Robertson joins us to talk about ancient philosophy as a tool for focus. Cognitive-behavioral psychotherapist & author Donald J. Robertson joins us to talk about ancient philosophy as a tool for focus. clean 5634 Cognitive-behavioral psychotherapist & author Donald J. Robertson joins us to talk about ancient philosophy as a tool for focus. This episode of Focused is sponsored by: Incogni: Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code FOCUSED with this link and get 60% off an annual plan. Zocdoc: Find the right doctor, right now with Zocdoc. Sign up for free. Indeed: Join more than 3.5 million businesses worldwide using Indeed to hire great talent fast. 1Password: Discover SaaS applications, automate lifecycle management, and optimize SaaS spend. Guest Starring: Donald Robertson Links and Show Notes: Deep Focus: Extended ad-free episodes with bonus deep dive content. Donald's Substack (Newsletter + Podcast) How to Think Like Socrates by Donald J. Robertson How to Think Like a Roman Emperor by Donald J. Robertson All of Donald's books Meditations by Marcus Aurelius

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 19:15:00 GMT http://relay.fm/focused/239 http://relay.fm/focused/239 How to Focus Like a Roman Emperor, with Donald J. Robertson 239 David Sparks and Mike Schmitz Cognitive-behavioral psychotherapist & author Donald J. Robertson joins us to talk about ancient philosophy as a tool for focus. Cognitive-behavioral psychotherapist & author Donald J. Robertson joins us to talk about ancient philosophy as a tool for focus. clean 5634 Cognitive-behavioral psychotherapist & author Donald J. Robertson joins us to talk about ancient philosophy as a tool for focus. This episode of Focused is sponsored by: Incogni: Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code FOCUSED with this link and get 60% off an annual plan. Zocdoc: Find the right doctor, right now with Zocdoc. Sign up for free. Indeed: Join more than 3.5 million businesses worldwide using Indeed to hire great talent fast. 1Password: Discover SaaS applications, automate lifecycle management, and optimize SaaS spend. Guest Starring: Donald Robertson Links and Show Notes: Deep Focus: Extended ad-free episodes with bonus deep dive content. Donald's Substack (Newsletter + Podcast) How to Think Like Socrates by Donald J. Robertson How to Think Like a Roman Emperor by Donald J. Robertson All of Donald's books Meditations by Marcus Aurelius

Marcus Aurelius is known as the Philosopher Emperor. He is known for his " 12 meditations " a personal Stoic journal. He wasn't perfect, however. I will cover the good , the bad , the ugly and how we can apply some of these stoic principles into our own lives. Modern translation of Meditations I routinely listen to can be found here https://youtu.be/f3hLZCuh8yM?si=JmXELm63foZuZfYq***************************************Get your What is Truth Merch Here!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://whatistruthpodmerch.itemorder.com/shop/home/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Find all my links here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/whatistruthpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠To catch a live show, Please Follow me on Odysee and Rumble!Please rate 5 stars if you enjoy the content! For vast majority of my content follow me on Odysee⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://odysee.com/@Weezy:a⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Now on Rumble!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://rumble.com/user/Whatistruthpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on Twitter!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/WhatTruthPod⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join our Telegram channel Group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://t.me/witweezy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@WHATISTRUTHTV⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen on your Favorite podcast player!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.minds.com/weezytruth/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Daddygate Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/TheDaddyGatePodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠If you would like to "Tip" the show Click the Patreon Link. Support will help me improve the show. Much Love to all whom already have!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/What_is_Truth⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠If you would like to join the WHAT IS TRUTH? PODCAST private FACEBOOK group, hit the link! Private Facebook group⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/429145721412069/?ref=share⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Email WHATISTRUTHPODCAST@gmail.com

In this episode, my guest is Carlos Garcia. Carlos is the Co-Founder and CEO of True Progress Lab, a coaching company that operates on the motto 'Get Calm. Get Bold. Get After It'. He is also a Major and Judge Advocate in the U.S. Army Reserve, and an Army-certified Master Resilience Trainer.Highlights* Carlos, you have a fascinating background—an attorney, a Major and Judge Advocate in the U.S. Army Reserve, and a high-performance coach. How did your experiences in these high-stakes environments lead you to focus on resilience and coaching?* You're an Army-certified Master Resilience Trainer. What are the core principles the military teaches for handling adversity? * Are there overlaps with ancient Stoic philosophy?* How do you think the army's resilience training could be improved?* You mentioned that reading about Stoicism and Marcus Aurelius has been "instrumental" in shaping your philosophy. Which of his ideas resonated most deeply with you, and how do you see them applying to a modern leader or soldier?* Your flagship course is called The Inner Fortress, can you tell us a bit about that?* A key focus of your coaching is overcoming FOPO, or the "fear of people's opinions". Why do you find this specific fear is such a powerful inhibitor for the successful professionals you work with?* You use a unique blend of Stoic philosophy and exposure therapy to help clients. Could you walk us through how you combine an ancient philosophy with a modern therapeutic technique to help someone act more boldly?* Finally, based on your experience, what do you think are some of the most helpful pieces of advice you can pass on to our listeners? 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.Links* Web: trueprogresslab.comThanks 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

This episode explores how Cicero and Marcus Aurelius both emphasized kindness, service, and integrity as essential parts of human nature.We look at Cicero's call to strengthen society through generosity and Marcus's list of ways we betray ourselves when we act against virtue.Together, their teachings form a practical guide to living with wisdom, justice, courage, and balance—not just for ourselves, but for the good of others.

We all want to live the good life. But how many of us can claim to be truly content? Join philosopher and evolutionary biologist Massimo Pigliucci as he argues that pleasure, character, and a healthy dose of doubt, form the basis of the good life, and that purpose in life is crucial to realising our potential.Massimo Pigliucci is a renowned philosopher and professor at the City College of New York. He is the author of several books, including, 'How to be a Stoic' and 'Beyond Stoicism'. A former co-host of the Rationally Speaking Podcast and a self-proclaimed sceptic, Pigliucci is a champion of Enlightenment notions of reason and rationality.Don't hesitate to email us at podcast@iai.tv with your thoughts or questions on the episode!To witness such debates live buy tickets for our upcoming festival: https://howthelightgetsin.org/festivals/And visit our website for many more articles, videos, and podcasts like this one: https://iai.tv/You can find everything we referenced here: https://linktr.ee/philosophyforourtimesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today we talk about the collection of journals known as Meditations by Marcus Aurelius. We mark the differences between Stoicism, modern Stoic ethics, and the journals of Marcus Aurelius. We talk about the divine logos, indifferents, and how metaphysical assumptions ladder up into the virtue ethics of the ancient Stoics. We talk about some of the context that Marcus was writing each of these journals in. All of this while trying to relay some of the biggest ideas that he wrote about. Hope you love it. :) Sponsors: Nord VPN: https://nordvpn.com/philothis Quince: https://www.QUINCE.com/pt ZocDoc: https://www.ZocDoc.com/PHILO Thank you so much for listening! Could never do this without your help.  Website: https://www.philosophizethis.org/ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/philosophizethis  Social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/philosophizethispodcast X: https://twitter.com/iamstephenwest Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/philosophizethisshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Go to www.LearningLeader.com for full show notes This is brought to you by Insight Global. If you need to hire 1 person, hire a team of people, or transform your business through Talent or Technical Services, Insight Global's team of 30,000 people around the world have the hustle and grit to deliver. www.InsightGlobal.com/LearningLeader Shaka Sengor spent 19 years in prison for killing a man. He's transformed his life through not making excuses and taking full ownership of his decisions. Now, he's a New York Times best-selling author who has been called a “soul igniter” by Oprah. His latest book is called How to Be Free. Notes: The Permanence of Split-Second Decisions – At 17, shot three times on a Detroit corner. At 19, he killed a man in a conflict after creating a narrative that he would "shoot first." Sentenced to 17-40 years for second-degree murder. "I try to teach young people about understanding the permanence of a 30-second decision." Books as Portals to Freedom – Read over 1,500 books during 19-year incarceration, starting with street literature (Pimp, Black Gangster) as a gateway to philosophy (Plato, Marcus Aurelius). "Books allowed me to escape in the most literal sense... a portal into other worlds." Prison Mentors Changed Everything – Lifers became his guides: "These are men serving life sentences who came equipped with wisdom about what's on the other side... they guided me to books that shattered old narratives and opened possibilities." Reading Creates Writing Excellence – Speed-reading skill from age 8 (learned during punishments with encyclopedias) combined with voracious prison reading, led to becoming a NY Times bestselling author. "You have to be a practitioner of the craft every day." Journaling as Transformation Tool – "It was the most healing experience I've ever had to speak to my truth, speak to the pain points." Uses 20 different journals, writes everywhere - planes, shower thoughts on phone, margins of books. Hidden Prisons We All Carry – "The most powerful prisons aren't the ones made of concrete and steel. They're the ones we carry with us, built from grief, anger, shame, trauma." Everyone has internal prisons that can be opened. Vulnerability as Strength, Not Manipulation – Authentic vulnerability vs. weaponized oversharing. "Human beings have this innate ability to suss out the truth. Authenticity and vulnerability is the super unlock... being true to your center." Community Through Shared Truth – Prison taught extreme friendship criteria: "Are they willing to serve a life sentence for you or die for you?" Now applies accountability standards: showing up consistently, being loyal to family first. Violence Born from Fear – "Reactionary violence is typically born out of fear, being afraid." Prison taught him to see "the child in people" who are acting out, leading to empathy instead of escalation. Voluntary Hardship Builds Resilience – Monthly 3-day fasts in solitary confinement prepared him for food deprivation punishment. "None of us get through life without suffering... that extra hour a week can change your life's outcomes." Composure Through Self-Awareness – Developed through journaling about times he wasn't composed. "Once you've written it down, you own it. When you own it, you can control it. When you can control it, it's easy to become composed." Remove All Excuses – Florence Nightingale quote: "I never gave or took any excuse." Despite a felony record, a violent crime conviction, and 20 years in prison, he chose to "lead a great life" by removing every excuse. The Ben Horowitz Friendship – Unlikely brotherhood with VC billionaire, starting from Oprah's introduction, bonding over music and culture until 3 AM conversations. Shows authentic relationships transcend backgrounds. Quotes: "I try to teach young people about understanding the permanence of a 30-second decision." "I was in prison before I stepped foot in a cell, and I was free before they ever let me out." "The most powerful prisons aren't the ones made of concrete and steel. They're the ones we carry with us." "Books allowed me to escape... a portal into other worlds." "Once you've written it down, you own it. When you own it, you can control it." "I never gave or took any excuse." (Florence Nightingale) "Master your thinking, master your destiny." "Violence is typically born out of fear, being afraid." "If you can see the child in the person that's acting out... it equips you to have more empathy." "None of us gets through life without suffering. At some point, we're all gonna go through adversity." "I chose to lead a great life... I removed every excuse." Life Lessons: Face Your Internal Prisons – Identify the shame, anger, grief, and trauma that create mental prisons. Recognize that these have doors that can be opened through conscious work Use Reading as Escape and Growth – Books provide mental freedom regardless of physical circumstances. Start with what interests you, then expand to broader learning. Practice Voluntary Hardship – Choose difficult challenges (fasting, extra work, taking stairs) to build resilience for inevitable adversity you don't choose. Journal for Self-Awareness – Write down thoughts, patterns, and reactions to own and control them. Use various methods - handwritten, voice memos, and margins of books. Build Authentic Community – Surround yourself with people who will hold you accountable and tell you the truth. Apply the highest standards to friendship selection. Transform Fear into Empathy – When facing conflict, look for the "child" in the other person. Understanding their fear reduces your reactionary responses. Develop Composure Through Practice – Review past moments of losing control to build awareness. Use this knowledge to respond rather than react in future situations. Remove All Excuses – Whatever your circumstances, choose to pursue greatness rather than accepting limitations. The past doesn't define the future unless you let it. Share Your Truth Vulnerably – Authentic storytelling about pain and growth helps others escape their own prisons. Vulnerability is strength when used to serve others. Create Evidence of Resilience – Completing self-imposed challenges builds confidence for handling external adversities. Each victory creates proof you can handle hard things. Choose Your Narrative – You can change the story handed down to you. Reject limiting beliefs about what's possible based on background or circumstances. Apply to be part of my Learning Leader Circle