Podcasts about Modern Stoicism

This episode is a replay from The Existential Stoic library. Enjoy! Does life seem unfair? What would life look like if it was fair? What do we mean when we say that something is unfair? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss why life is unfair and what you can do about it.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 

Have you ever used AI to get answers to philosophical questions? What are the top ten philosophical questions people ask AI? In this episode, Danny and Randy answer the top ten philosophical questions people ask AI.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

Have you noticed that the cost of everyday items has skyrocketed? Are you finding it difficult to purchase the things you need? What do you need? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss how to live with rising prices.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  

Stoicism is having a resurgence, and Ryan Holiday is one of the most influential voices of its modern form. He's a best-selling author, and his books on the subject, including ‘Ego is the Enemy' and ‘The Obstacle is the Way', have been read by millions of people. And now he's bringing those ideas to a Kiwi audience with a one-off show at Auckland's Bruce Mason Arena. ‘An Evening with Ryan Holiday' will explore how the ancient philosophy can help navigate pressure, setbacks and uncertainty in the modern world. Stoicism is a philosophical movement and practical guide to living that originated in the Hellenistic period of ancient Greece and continued well into the Roman Imperial period. It's comprised of logic, physics, and ethics, and the core idea is that in order to live a good life, one must develop a character shaped by wisdom, moderation, courage, and justice. But what is it about this philosophy that makes it resonate so strongly in the modern world? “The modern world is not that different than the ancient world,” Holiday told Matt Heath and Tyler Adams. “It's uncertain, it's crazy, institutions feel like they're falling apart. You've got pandemics and plagues, corruption, dysfunction, tyranny, all the things that we worry about today, they worried about in the ancient world, only more so.” LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you want to be happy? Are you trying to live a good life? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss how to live a good life.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  

Do you dream of being an overnight success? What would you sacrifice for success? Should we focus on success or character? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss short term success versus character.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

This episode is a replay from The Existential Stoic library. Enjoy! Do you want to be happy? What does it mean to be happy? Is it possible to be happy now? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss what happiness is.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

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.Thank you Vanessa Morgenstern, Jeremy the therapist, Samuel Horton, JRCCreasey©️✅, Jeannine Bednar-Giyose, and many others for tuning into my live video with Phil Yanov! Join me for my next live video in the app.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

This episode is a replay from The Existential Stoic library. Enjoy! Is your life your own? Do you feel like you're constantly doing things because you have to, not because you want to? Do you know yourself? Danny and Randy discuss what it means to be true to yourself.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  

What's the meaning of life? What is consciousness? What's the basis of morality? In this episode, Danny and Randy answer 10 of the top philosophy questions. We referenced the following list of philosophy questions in this episode: https://dougvos.com/top-10-philosophy-questions/ 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

Are you living your best life? What does it even mean to live your best life? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss whether it is important to live your best life.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  

This episode is a replay from The Existential Stoic library. Enjoy! In books, movies, video games, and more, we are reminded again and again that good will conquer evil. But in the real world, will good actually conquer evil? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss whether good will conquer evil.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 

What do people usually regret on their deathbed? What do these regrets tell us about how we should live? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss 5 regrets of the dying.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 

This episode is a replay from The Existential Stoic library. Enjoy! Do you struggle with letting things go? Do you find yourself holding grudges? Does it feel impossible to let things go? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss why letting go feels impossible and how to actually do it. Thanks to listener Mike W. for this episode topic. 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

Do you like to be in control? Does your desire for control limit your freedom? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss losing control and finding freedom.  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

Do you look for meaning or purpose through your job? Is there more to life than work? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss finding meaning beyond your career.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

Is life meaningless? Is everything a matter of interpretation, perspective? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss why Camus thought life is absurd.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

Self-help books tell us to go after the life we want, but what if that's wrong? Is it possible to want the life you get? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss how to want the life you get.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 

This episode is a replay from The Existential Stoic library. Enjoy! Do you compare yourself to others? Does it always seem like other people are doing better, living better, than you? Who should you compare yourself to? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss self-worth and making healthy comparisons.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

This episode is a replay from The Existential Stoic library. Enjoy! Everyone dies…Danny and Randy discuss regrets of the dying. Discover what you can do to live authentically and without regrets!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

This episode is a replay from The Existential Stoic library. Enjoy! Do you get upset when things don't go exactly as you planned? Do you wish you had more control? Do you struggle with feelings of insecurity? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss why we should let go of control.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

Do you take pleasure in other people's misfortune? Do you wish you were able to stop and enjoy the simpler things in life? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss the concepts of Schadenfreude or the Simple Pleasures. Thanks to listener Jon B. for suggesting this topic. 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 

This episode is a replay from The Existential Stoic library. Enjoy! What is consciousness? Is consciousness based completely on the physical, on neurons firing in the brain? What makes us who we are? In this episode, Danny and Randy explore consciousness and the self.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

This episode is a replay from The Existential Stoic library. Enjoy! Do your thoughts limit you? Is it possible to change how you think, to free yourself from the confines of your beliefs and values? Can we ever break free from the prison of our own minds? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss how our thoughts imprison us and how to break free.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 

This episode is a replay from The Existential Stoic library. Enjoy! Everyone has problems. Where do our problems come from? Can we ever be free of problems? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss the origin of problems.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

What's wrong with modern Stoicism?Stoicism is often presented today as a self-help philosophy focused on emotional control, toughness, and handling life alone. But does Stoicism really work when we are grieving, depressed, or emotionally overwhelmed?Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.In this episode, we reflect on what is missing in modern Stoicism and why it often feels rigid or harsh in practice. Stoicism depends on our ability to use reason, but that ability is not always available. When reason is inaccessible, Stoicism cannot be practiced in isolation and requires support, compassion, and guidance.Stoicism was never meant to harden us or turn us inward. It is a deeply pro-social philosophy that emphasizes shared responsibility, patience with ourselves, and gratitude for what is already here. This episode explores why real-life application, self-compassion, and community matter more than being right about Stoic theory.Listen to the full episode and discover how Stoicism, practiced with reason, care, and support, can help us live more steadily and more humanly.Support the show

Does life seem like it's harder than ever? Do you find yourself struggling to stay positive, to keep things in perspective? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss some everyday worries they've been dealing with.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

This episode is a replay from The Existential Stoic library. Enjoy! Misattribution is a cognitive bias that occurs when someone incorrectly assigns the cause or source of their emotions, memories, or experiences. For example, you feel down or depressed, so you go buy something you don't need. How can we address misattribution? What does modern Stoicism suggest for dealing with misattribution? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss misattribution and modern stoicism. Thanks to listener @_thenyounoticeyourethinking for this episode topic.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

This episode is a replay from The Existential Stoic library. Enjoy! Should we structure our lives around certain principles? Can adopting Stoic principles make our lives better? Danny and Randy discuss Stoic principles to live by.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

Donald Robertson is a cognitive-behavioural psychotherapist, author, and a leading expert on ancient Stoic philosophy and its modern applications. Originally from Scotland and now based in Canada, he has spent his career examining how ancient philosophy can help address modern psychological challenges. In this episode, Niall speaks with Donald about his book: “How to Think Like Socrates” and the continued relevance of Socratic philosophy for modern life and mental wellbeing. In this conversation, they explore: — Why Socrates was a “street philosopher” who brought philosophy into everyday life — How Socratic questioning can build cognitive flexibility and soften rigid thinking — The link between wisdom and emotional wellbeing that underpins cognitive therapy — Why clarifying values matters for living a meaningful life — How ancient philosophical practices can be applied to modern psychological challenges And more. You can learn more about Donald's work at http://donaldrobertson.name. — Donald is a writer, cognitive-behavioural psychotherapist and trainer. He is one of the founding members of the Modern Stoicism nonprofit, and the founder and president of the Plato's Academy Centre nonprofit in Athens, Greece. Donald specializes in teaching evidence-based psychological skills, and known as an expert on the relationship between modern evidence-based psychotherapy and classical Greek and Roman philosophy. His work is highly interdisciplinary, combining philosophy, history, and psychology. He was born in Irvine, Scotland, and grew up in Ayr. He worked as a psychotherapist for about twenty years in London, England, where he had a clinic in Harley Street, and ran a training school for therapists. He emigrated to Canada in 2013 and began focusing more on writing and consultancy. He now divides his time between Greece and Canada. Donald is an experienced public speaker. His therapy practice specialised for many years in helping clients with social anxiety and self-confidence issues. His work, and that of his colleagues, has often featured in the media of different countries, including Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, the BBC, etc. --- Interview Links: — Donald's website - http://donaldrobertson.name — Donald's books - https://amzn.to/4bwfdUY

What is the Daoist concept of wu-wei? Is wu-wei similar to any concepts from Western philosophy? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss the Daoist concept of wu-wei or effortless action.Thanks to listener Jon B. for suggesting this topic! 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 

This episode is a replay from The Existential Stoic library. Enjoy! Why do you feel depressed, anxious, or unhappy? Do we have control over our emotions? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss whether we are responsible for our emotions.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 

Are you lonely? Do you find it hard to meet people and make new friends? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss friendship in the age of distractions.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

Do you lie to yourself? Do you make up reasons to justify your actions? What does it mean to be honest with yourself? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss being honest with oneself.Thanks to listener Eli for suggesting this topic! 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

This episode is a replay from The Existential Stoic library. Enjoy! If we are living in a simulation, would you be able to tell? Would your sense of right and wrong change if you knew everything is a lie? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss what we know and whether everything we know is a lie.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

This episode is a replay from The Existential Stoic library. Enjoy! Do you wish things went faster? Does it take too long to learn something new or master a new skill? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss why everything is so slow.  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

This episode is a replay from The Existential Stoic library. Enjoy! Do you care too much? Do you struggle with anxiety or depression? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss the subtle art of not giving a f*ck.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

This episode is a replay from The Existential Stoic library. Enjoy! Do you find it hard to be positive? Do you wish you were happy, joyful? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss tips for how to be joyful.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

Are you chasing perfection? Are you trying to be your ‘ideal self'? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss the ‘ideal self' trap and how to deal with it. 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

Are you depressed? Do you know why you are depressed? Does being civilized cause depression? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss whether being civilized causes depression and what we can do about it.  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

This is the recording of my short presentation and the Q&A at the second Conversations With Modern Stoicism event, hosted in June 2025 by Phil Yanov. Asked to give a short and provocative presentation about an issue that arises in the everyday applications of Stoicism, we decided on the topic of grief and grieving I first discuss what we can call a "standard Stoic take" on grief, which they understand as belonging to the broader emotional category of pain or distress, and therefore being something bad for us. We then look briefly at some of the treatments of grief and grieving in Epictetus and Seneca. Texts mentioned in this talk: Marcus Aurelius' Meditations - https://amzn.to/3osPFNF Epictetus' Discourses and Enchiridion - https://amzn.to/37G6bE0 Seneca's Letters - https://amzn.to/3dZQrNk Cicero's Tusculan Disputations - https://amzn.to/3L1WoxY

Are you stuck? Do you feel lost? Have you hit a plateau? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss how to respond to plateaus in life. 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

Send us a textEver feel like you're drifting through life without a clear moral compass? The ancient Stoics had an answer: four timeless virtues that can transform how you handle stress, make decisions, and find meaning.In this episode of Stoic Handbook, Jon Brooks breaks down wisdom, courage, justice, and temperance – the four cardinal virtues that philosophers like Marcus Aurelius and Epictetus used to navigate everything from personal anxiety to leading empires.You'll discover:Wisdom: How to see reality clearly and focus on what you can control (with a modern work deadline example)Courage: Why acting on your principles matters more than physical bravery (plus the truth about Stoic tattoos!)Justice: How treating others fairly becomes the source of all other virtuesTemperance: The art of balance in a world of excess and distractionJon shares practical daily exercises, modern examples, and explains why these 2,000-year-old principles are more relevant than ever in our chaotic world. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, seeking clarity, or just want to be a better human, this episode gives you a framework that actually works.Perfect for: Anyone new to Stoicism, people struggling with emotional resilience, or philosophy enthusiasts looking for practical wisdom.Resources mentioned: Marcus Aurelius' Meditations, Epictetus' Enchiridion, Modern Stoicism website

Are you having an existential crisis? Do you know what you believe? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss how we can live even when we don't know what to believe.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

Do you lash out at others? Does it feel like the world is full of idiots? Are you constantly arguing and stressed? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss what it really means to pick your battles.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

This episode is a replay from The Existential Stoic library. Enjoy! Many of us chastise ourselves for our errors, berate ourselves for our failures, and generally use overly critical self-talk. Discover how to change your relationship to yourself with positive self-talk.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  

This episode is a replay from The Existential Stoic library. Enjoy! Are there things you don't do because you think you're not good enough? Do you keep working at a job you hate simply because you're afraid of pursuing something new? Do you feel constrained by social pressures, beliefs, and obligations? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss how to stop limiting yourself. Free yourself from limiting beliefs and start living your best life. 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 

This episode is a replay from The Existential Stoic library. Enjoy! Do you struggle to build good, healthy relationships? Do you wish it was easier to make friends and meet people? Do you want strong, lasting relationships? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss tips for how to build relationships.  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 

The Existential Stoic podcast is now in its sixth season. Should we continue doing the podcast? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss what they'll do with the podcast. 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

This episode is a replay from The Existential Stoic library. Enjoy! How often do you spend time in nature? Is technology distracting you from experiencing the world around you? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss the role of nature in our lives.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