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What You'll Learn:Why real leaders don't always have the title—or the powerHow Becky's Stoic-inspired Choose the Handle That Holds became a guidebook for life and leadershipThe difference between authentic vulnerability and oversharingA live demo of STOA: a goal-setting tool you'll want to use immediatelyHow to model leadership for your team, your family, and yourself
In dieser Folge spricht Alex mit Dr. Markus Rüther über den Begriff der Autonomie. Markus Rüther war lange Zeit Co-Host des Stoiker-Podcast und arbeitet jetzt zu Themen der Ethik im Umgang mit KI-Systemen. Diese Episode beschäftigt sich daher mit der genauen Analyse des Autonomie-Begriffs sowie seiner Anwendung auf die Stoa und modernen KI-Systeme. Shownotes: Stoiker-Podcast: http://www.stoikerpodcast.de Markus Rüther: https://www.fz-juelich.de/profile/ruether_m https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Markus-Ruether
Episode Topic: The Case of the Flat Arch New fieldwork at the Sanctuary of the Great Gods on Samothrace reveals flat arches in the Doric frieze of the Stoa, a structure built in the second quarter of the 3rd century BCE. Sam Holzman, Assistant Professor of Art and Archaeology at Princeton University, examines these keystone friezes, which predate similar examples in Italy by over 150 years and highlight a critical moment in ancient structural design, bridging Greek trabeated aesthetics with Roman architectural innovation. Holzman traces this evolution, from cantilever-based devices in Athens to plate-bande construction in late Republican Rome, showcasing the blending of form and function in the ancient Mediterranean.Featured Speakers:Samuel Holzman, Princeton UniversityRead this episode's recap over on the University of Notre Dame's open online learning community platform, ThinkND: https://go.nd.edu/fb23d7.This podcast is a part of the ThinkND Series titled Restoring Reason, Beauty, and Trust in Architecture. Thanks for listening! The ThinkND Podcast is brought to you by ThinkND, the University of Notre Dame's online learning community. We connect you with videos, podcasts, articles, courses, and other resources to inspire minds and spark conversations on topics that matter to you — everything from faith and politics, to science, technology, and your career. Learn more about ThinkND and register for upcoming live events at think.nd.edu. Join our LinkedIn community for updates, episode clips, and more.
Remco Liu-van Dorp vertelt over de basiscursus die hij doceert, De draak in de zuilengang. Een ontmoeting tussen dao en stoa. Deze cursus gaat over de twee levensfilosofieën die Remco heeft bestudeerd en toepast: het daoïsme en het stoïcisme. Beide streven ernaar te leven in harmonie met de natuur. Maar wat is dan die natuur, die werkelijkheid? In de podcast bespreekt Remco de overeenkomsten en verschillen tussen daoïsme en stoïcisme, en wat deze filosofieën hem in zijn eigen leven brengen. De basiscursus De draak in de zuilengang bestaat uit vijf weekenden, die ook los zijn te volgen. Met Remco Liu-van Dorp en gastdocenten Dennis de Gruijter, Benny Voncken, Jan Bor en Yuan Sun.
Er war ein brutaler Feldherr, der Gebiete verwüsten und Gefangene hinrichten ließ. Gleichzeitig beschäftigt er sich mit der Philosophie der Stoa, schrieb Texte über Seelenruhe und Vergänglichkeit. Seine „Selbstbetrachtungen“ machten ihn weltberühmt. In Trier geht jetzt eine Landesausstellung dem Mythos des römischen Kaisers Marc Aurel auf den Grund: War er wirklich der „gute Herrscher“, als der er bis heute gilt? Marie-Christine Werner diskutiert mit Dr. Alexander Bätz – Althistoriker, Universität Konstanz; Dr. Marcus Reuter – Direktor des rheinischen Landesmuseums in Trier; Jula Wildberger – Professor Emerita of Classics an der American University of Paris und Expertin für Stoizismus
De filosoof en leraar Chrysippos, die zich naar verluidt zou hebben doodgelachen, is waarschijnlijk verantwoordelijk voor het feit dat wij het Stoïcisme nu nog kennen. Zijn open houding stond in schril contrast met die van Cleanthes, en maakte dat ook mensen buiten de school over de leer van de Stoa hoorden.Wie was deze man? Waar was hij van overtuigd? En hoe verhoudt zijn filosofie zich tot die van zijn leraren? Je hoort het in deze aflevering!
In dieser Episode sprechen Anne und Alex mit Tino Deckert, der neben einer aktualisierten Gesamtausgabe von Epiktet auch eine aktualisierte Version des Handbuchs von Epiktet herausgegeben hat. Die beiden sprechen mit Tino darüber, welche Gebrauchsanweisung das Handbuch benötigt und welche Hinweise man im Sinne eines Beipackzettels für das Handbuch geben sollte. Im Rahmen dieser Diskussion erfährt man auch, warum das Handbuch nicht das optimale Geschenk für Neueinsteiger in die Stoa ist. Shownotes: Das Handbuch und die Gesamtausgabe von Epiktet von Tino Deckert: https://shop.tredition.com/booktitle/Gespr%3Fche_Fragmente_Handbuch/W-1_162529
In dieser Episode steht der Praxischarakter der stoischen Lebensphilosophie im Vordergrund. Es geht dabei um eine Übung zur stoischen Reflexion zur Vergebung. Vergebung hier verstanden als die Bereitschaft sich selbst zu vergeben. Diese Episode schließt an Episode 41 an, welche sich bereits mit dem Umgang mit eigenen Fehlern beschäftigte. Shownotes: Den Text der Reflexion findet Ihr auf der Website dieses Podcast: https://weg-der-stoa.de/der-stoische-weg-zur-vergebung-fuer-sich-selbst/
In dieser Episode sprechen Anne und Alex über das Thema Empathie bzw. Mitleid. Aufhänger für diese Folge ist die Serie zum Buddhismus, da dort die Fähigkeit zur Empathie und zum Mitleid von großer Bedeutung war. Wie steht es darum aber im Stoizismus? Wird der Stoizismus nicht oft als kalt und distanziert dargestellt? Anne und Alex schauen in dieser Folge daher einmal genauer hin und stellen fest, dass der Stoizismus an dieser Stelle zwar herausfordernd, aber keineswegs kalt ist. Shownotes: Epiktet, Gespräche, Fragmente, Handbuch, Moderne Gesamtausgabe von Tino Deckert (Hrsg.), tredition GmbH, 2021. Seneca, Briefe an Lucilius, Reclam Verlag, 2018.
Could competitive debate actually strengthen your child's faith while building their confidence? Most parents never imagine their quiet kid becoming a national-level debater, but that's exactly what happened in this family. In this inspiring mother-son interview, Alyssa and Thaddeus share their remarkable journey through Stoa (Speech & Debate) and Classical Conversations. Discover how Thaddeus transformed into a persuasive communicator now thriving on Patrick Henry College's varsity mock trial team. Learn how Stoa's Christian approach to speech and debate not only builds communication skills but strengthens biblical worldview, creates lifelong friendships, and prepares students to "speak boldly and change the world for Christ." Whether you're a homeschooling parent wondering if your child could handle public speaking or curious about integrating rigorous academics with character development, this episode reveals the powerful combination of Classical Conversations and competitive speech and debate. This episode of Refining Rhetoric is sponsored by Stoa Christian Homeschool Speech and Debate League https://www.stoausa.org/
Send us a textStrength isn't the absence of weakness—it's how we transform our challenges into growth. In this riveting conversation with leadership coach and author Becky Schmooke, we explore stoic philosophy as a misunderstood yet powerful tool for navigating life's inevitable obstacles.Becky shares her personal journey of using stoicism to overcome a twenty-year battle with bulimia, developing the STOA framework (Success, Targets, Obstacles/Opportunities, Action steps) that now helps everyone from executives to NFL players and first responders navigate high-pressure situations. Far from the emotionless stereotype, stoicism emerges as a practice of emotional awareness without emotional control."Leadership is a lifestyle, not a job title," Becky emphasizes, challenging conventional hierarchies with her SAFE framework that builds genuine capability rather than superficial "show muscles." Her approach transforms organizations from having "a team and a leader" to fostering "a team of leaders"—a critical distinction for environments where split-second decisions matter.The Japanese art of kintsugi—repairing broken pottery with gold—becomes a powerful metaphor for resilience throughout our discussion. When we acknowledge our breaks rather than hiding them, we become stronger precisely where we were once vulnerable. This principle applies powerfully to trauma recovery, offering a path beyond mere survival to genuine transformation.Whether you're leading a team, recovering from trauma, or simply trying to navigate life's complexities with more grace, Becky's practical frameworks provide immediate, actionable insights. Her husband, a fire captain, uses these same principles during emergency calls, demonstrating their real-world effectiveness under pressure.Ready to choose the handle that holds? Join us for this enlightening conversation about stoicism, leadership, and the art of transforming obstacles into opportunities for growth. Find Becky's book "Choose the Handle that Holds" here and connect with her mindfulness retreats at www.beckyschmooke.com.Support the showYouTube Channel For The Podcast
In dieser Folge schließen Yesche, Anne und Alex ihren Durchgang durch den Buddhismus als Lebensphilosophie mit einem Blick auf das Konzept der buddhistischen Weisheit ab. Im Gespräch zeigen sich dabei sehr spannende Ähnlichkeiten in der Konzeption und den Auswirkungen der Weisheit zwischen dem Buddhismus und dem Stoizismus. Shownotes: Website von Yesche Regel: https://paramita-online.de Yesche Regel auf YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoETeEU-czRAKXftQsBc2iw
In dieser Folge setzen Anne, Yesche und Alex ihren Dialog über den Vergleich der buddhistischen mit der stoischen Lebenspraxis an Hand des achtfachen Pfades des Buddha fort. Der achtfache Pfad teilt sich dabei in die drei Bereiche Mediation, Ethik und Weisheit. In dieser Episode sprechen die drei über die ersten beiden Themenblöcke des achtfachen Pfades und zwar die Meditation und die Ethik. Die Diskussion der Weisheit bleibt der letzten Folge in dieser kurzen Serie zum Buddhismus vorbehalten. Shownotes: Website von Yesche Regel: https://paramita-online.de Yesche Regel auf YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoETeEU-czRAKXftQsBc2iw
In dieser Folge sprechen Anne und Alex mit Yesche Udo Regel, einem Buddhismus-Experten aus Bonn. Yesche Regel praktiziert den Buddhismus seit mehr als 40 Jahren und war 20 Jahre lang ordinierter buddhistischer Mönch. Anne und Alex sprechen in dieser Episode mit ihm über seinen Lebensweg und die vier edlen Wahrheiten des Buddhismus. Das Gespräch wird in den nächsten Episoden fortgesetzt. Shownotes: Yesche Regel bietet in seinem Institut in Bonn regelmäßig Kurse zur buddhistischen Lebenspraxis an. Sein Institut heißt "paramita" und findet sich hier: https://paramita-online.de
In dieser Folge stellt Alex in Ergänzung zur stoischen Morgenreflexion aus Episode 43 eine stoische Abendreflexion vor. Diese orientiert sich in ihrem Aufbau an der Morgenreflexion, soll den Übenden aber für eine tiefergehende abendliche Reflexionspraxis öffnen und vorbereiten.
In this episode, Michael Tremblay and Caleb Ontiveros explore Aristotle's ethics, focusing on his doctrine of virtue as the golden mean. They break down how Aristotle's view differs from Stoicism—from his three-part soul to his idea that virtues are skills developed through practice. Learn why Aristotle saw courage as a balance between cowardice and rashness, why feeling the right emotions matters as much as doing the right thing, and how this ancient framework applies to modern life.The conversation unpacks key concepts from Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics: habituation, the role of pleasure in virtue, and why context matters in ethical decisions.(08:29) Aristotelian Happiness(10:47) Parts of the Soul(12:44) The Kinds of Virtues(14:04) Virtue as Skill(18:39) Habituation(19:42) The Golden Mean(26:07) Good Reason For Bad Feelings(28:24) Meaning of Virtue(31:37) Self-Reinforcing Virtue(35:31) What the Golden Mean Means(45:02) Key Ideas For Practice(48:03) Differences with Stoicism*** Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it's a free download): https://stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Check out our Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@stoaphilosophyThanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/
Der römische Philosoph Seneca gibt in seinen Schriften viele praktische Anweisungen, wie wir uns in die Lebenskunst der Stoa einüben können. Entnommen aus: Yves Bossart "Ohne Heute gäbe es morgen kein Gestern. Philosophische Gedankenspiele", Wilhelm Heyne Verlag, München 2018
In this final exploration of Cicero's "On Ends," Michael and Caleb break down Book V, where Cicero reveals his own philosophical sweet spot – an Aristotelian-Platonic approach that challenges both Stoicism and Epicureanism.Against a backdrop of ancient Athens, Cicero's characters debate the core question: What makes a truly good human life? They navigate the middle path between Stoic rigidity (where virtue alone brings happiness) and Aristotle's elitism (where external goods are required).(01:53) Awesome Beginning(07:10) What's Our Purpose?(26:09) Supreme Happiness(31:55) Cicero's Objection(40:39) Summary***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it's a free download): https://stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Check out our Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@stoaphilosophyThanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/
Discover the hidden gems of Stoic philosophy in this exploration of Epictetus' fragments - those powerful passages preserved by other philosophers but lost from his main works.Caleb and Michael unpack these concentrated nuggets of wisdom, from the surprising idea that we should value people by their capacity to help friends rather than harm enemies, to the famous "persist and resist" maxim that captures the essence of Stoic emotional management.Learn why terrible people are already punished by their own character, how to judge humans by their true virtue rather than superficial success, and why no one is truly free without mastering themselves.(00:00) MT: Fragments (05:18) Fragment 7: Helping Friends vs. Harming Enemies (10:43) Fragment 10: The Clean Jar - Approaching Philosophy Properly (16:19) Fragment 10: The Famous "Persist and Resist" Maxim (19:31) Fragment 13: Why Bad People Are Their Own Punishment (25:39) Fragment 18: Judging Humans by Their True Excellence (28:41) Fragment 17: The Banquet of Life (31:29) Fragment 20: Becoming Resilient to Emotions (37:04) Fragment 26: A Soul Carrying a Corpse (39:39) Fragment 35: True Freedom Through Self-Mastery***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it's a free download): https://stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Check out our Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@stoaphilosophyThanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/
In this episode, Michael Tremblay explores Epictetus' radical approach to anger and forgiveness. Discover why the Stoics believed we should pity rather than punish those who harm us, and how this ancient wisdom offers a practical path to emotional freedom in your daily life. Through Epictetus' teachings, learn the liberating power of seeing wrongdoers as victims of their own confusion.***Download the Stoa app (it's a free download): https://stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/
Michael and Caleb dive into classic philosophical thought experiments to uncover Stoic solutions to impossible choices. From the infamous Trolley Problem to the Happiness Machine, they examine how Stoicism's focus on virtue, context, and roles provides a unique framework for moral decision-making.Unlike utilitarian or rule-based ethics, the Stoic approach emphasizes character over consequences, yet remains practical when facing life's hardest choices. This thought-provoking conversation challenges modern assumptions about ethical reasoning while revealing surprising Stoic positions on torture, self-sacrifice, and artificial pleasure.(01:57) Trolley Problem(14:35) Do Stoics Endorse Torture?(20:31) Happiness Machine(24:24) Utility Monster(27:14) Euthyphro Dilemma(35:53) Sinking Ship(40:59) Prisoner's Dilemma(46:11) Omelas Child(53:59) Takeaways***Download the Stoa app (it's a free download): https://stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/
Today on The New Mason Jar, Cindy and Dawn have a veteran homeschool mom, Hailey White, and her daughter Vivien on the show to talk about speech and debate from a Charlotte Mason perspective How Hailey first learned about Charlotte Mason and her ideas What were Vivien's impressions of her education? How did the Whites become involved with Christian homeschooling speech and debate? How did participating in speech and debate influence Vivien's homeschool experience? What is the value of joining a Stoa club, and how does it work? What about concerns about the competitive nature of tournaments? Is there a benefit for students who don't initially seem interested in public speaking? To view the full show notes for this episode, please visit our website at https://thenewmasonjar.com/109.
Caleb and Michael break down Book IV of Cicero's "On Ends" - his powerful critique of Stoic ethics.Discover why Cicero believed the Stoics fell short by prioritizing virtue alone while dismissing external goods. Is Stoicism just playing word games with what's "good" versus "preferred"? Would the perfect Stoic and the perfect Aristotelian behave the same way? This episode tackles the core tensions in ancient ethics that are relevant for modern life.(03:22) Cicero's Perspective(07:51) Weak Arguments(08:44) Powerful Argument #1 – Stoicism Wasn't New(16:16) Powerful Argument #2 – We Have A Body(22:22) Powerful Argument #3 – The Dilemma(33:27) Defending Stoicism from #3(48:30) Taking On Argument #2 ***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it's a free download): https://stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/
On this episode of Anchored, CLT's Brand Marketing Manager Taryn Boyes is joined by Aryanna Highfill and Kate Creecy to discuss their experience participating in the National Home School Speech and Debate League, STOA. They discuss the array of skills STOA helped them develop, dive into how it shaped their high school experience, and share how it prepared them for their college years and beyond. They also discuss how to approach the competitive aspect of speech and debate.
Living like a Stoic is about getting the little things right. In this episode, Michael Tremblay discusses 7 Stoic habits you can start today to build a more thoughtful, resilient, and Stoic you.(01:25) Thinking Well(14:24) Living Philosophically(17:58) Preparing for Adversity(30:15) Summary***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it's a free download): https://stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/
Worthaus 12 – Tübingen: 18. Mai 2024 von Prof. Dr. Udo Schnelle.
In this episode of Stoic Conversations, Caleb and Michael break down Book III of Cicero's On Ends - the definitive ancient defense of Stoic ethics.Discover why the Stoics believed virtue alone is sufficient for happiness, and how they justified their unique system of values. Follow along as they unpack Stoic moral development, from our earliest instincts to the cultivation of wisdom.On Ends Book I: The EpicureansOn Ends Book II: Against The Epicureans(05:53) Overview Of The Book (09:34) Moral Development (26:46) Stoicism Defended (28:08) Morality is the Only Good (38:01) Indifferents (54:57) Awesome Lines***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it's a free download): https://stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/
Seneca's brutal play "Medea" reveals what happens when rage takes control. A betrayed wife, an indecisive husband, and a tragic ending that challenges Stoic ideals. In this episode, Caleb and Michael analyze Seneca's bloody retelling of the Medea myth - where passion overcomes reason with devastating consequences.Dana Gioia on Seneca and The Madness of Hercules (Episode 74)(04:28) Historical Background (06:43) The Story of Medea's Revenge (17:08) Character: Fortune Takes Wealth, Not Spirit(21:27) Not Just a Moment's Madness (26:36) How Anger Warps Reality (33:44) Satisfying Madness(36:02) The Intoxication of Rage (38:41) What's Up With Jason?(46:03) Seneca's Court Experience (50:43) Brutal Ending: "There Are No Gods" (58:57) OutroDownload the Stoa app (it's a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/
Caleb and Michael take on Book II of Cicero's On Ends. In this books Cicero goes off against the Epicureans. What do you think?On Ends Book IAristippus: The Philosopher Who Mastered Pleasure(02:43) Different Kinds Of Pleasure(16:34) Turning AgainstThe Stoics(18:02) Ranking Pleasures(24:40) Epicurean Rebranding?(30:55) Epicureans Ignore Virtue(34:28) Utilitarianism(38:18) Topsy Turvy Value Systems(46:50) Do Epicureans Lie?(48:17) Is Happiness Up To You(56:08) Michael's Takeaway***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it's a free download): https://stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/
In this episode, Michael talks with Erick Cloward, the host of the Stoic Coffee Break Podcast. Erick talks about his journey into Stoicism, his recent use of Amor Fati, and how to have difficult conversations, especially with those you politically disagree with.(08:49) How Stoicism Makes A Difference (16:33) Amor Fati (31:03) Amor Fati And Politics (39:33) Hard Conversations (56:06) Bringing People Together (01:02:19) Learn More***Download the Stoa app (it's a free download): https://stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/
Epictetus tells us the chief task of philosophy is just one thing: Make proper use of impressions. In this episode, Michael Tremblay does a deep dive into what this means, how we can do it, and why, for Epictetus, it is the most important thing there is.*** Download the Stoa app (free): https://stoameditation.com/podFor those who find the app valuable but face financial constraints, email us for a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music: https://ancientlyre.com/
In 45 BC, amid the turmoil of the Roman Civil War, Cicero wrote one of philosophy's most important works on the meaning of life. This episode unpacks Book I of "On Ends," exploring the clash between Epicurean pleasure-seeking and Stoic virtue.(01:14) Meeting Cicero(06:18) Latin over Greek (11:40) On Ends Core Debates (16:03) Cicero attacks(20:44) Why Pleasure isn't Everything (27:28) The Epicurean Response (31:29) Must Virtue Produce Something More? (46:53) The Epicurean View of Community (53:38) The Epicurean sage***Download the Stoa app (it's a free download): https://stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/
Caleb and Michael discuess teacher of Diogenes and the grandfather of Stoicism. Before there were Stoics arguing about virtue, there was Antisthenes. A warrior turned philosopher who studied under Socrates.(02:40) Antisthenes The Man(07:32) Cynicism(12:42) How To Become Cynical(21:27) Virtue is Action(23:58) Socratic Influence(27:02) Antisthenes in Action(29:38) Death(34:34) Irreverance(36:09) The Point of Philosophy(39:08) Cynicism and Stoicism***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it's a free download): https://stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Check out our Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@stoaphilosophyThanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/
Dr. Iain Lampert interviews Elaine Csoros Krussow. Elaine is currently a licensed mental health provider in Minneapolis, Minnesota. While in IPDA, Elaine competed for Union University where she was a team officer for two of her three years on the circuit. During that time, Elaine saw a variety of success including multiple final rounds, speaker awards, 2nd place overall in season long results, and advancing to outrounds at the national level twice. Prior to college, she competed in the home school forensic league STOA for six years and saw competitive success in all forms of debate and nine speech categories. Despite the accolades from competing, Elaine views her biggest win as the friendships she was able to develop in the debate community.
Freedom isn't about having enough money to do what you want. It's about wanting what you can actually control. In this episode, Michael breaks down Epictetus's radical handbook chapter 14, revealing the four key principles of Stoic desire – and why wanting the wrong things makes us slaves to circumstance.***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it's a free download): https://stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Check out our Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@stoaphilosophyThanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/
The ancient Stoics never used the term "metacognition," but this modern psychological concept illuminates the core of their philosophy. Michael and Caleb explore how the Stoic emphasis on examining our thoughts—what psychologists now call metacognition—is central to both Stoic theory and practice. They unpack why the Stoics saw this capacity for mental self-reflection as divine, how it distinguishes humans from animals, and why mastering it is essential for living well. A practical discussion for anyone interested in training their mind the Stoic way.(04:53) Metacognition in Stoicism(10:11) Metacognition as Philosophy(24:37) Judgement in Stoicism(27:05) Metacognition in Practice(41:31) Takeaways***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it's a free download): https://stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Check out our Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@stoaphilosophyThanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/
Ancient and modern Stoics aren't just thinkers - they are runners too. In this episode, Caleb explores how the simple act of running illuminates core Stoic principles about pain, perception, and perseverance. ***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it's a free download): https://stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Check out our Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@stoaphilosophyThanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/
Meet ancient Greece's original hedonist. Unlike later philosophers who preached asceticism, Aristippus embraced luxury, courted kings, and still kept his freedom. A student of Socrates who chose pleasure over asceticism, he founded a school of thought that spread through generations of his family. This conversation explores how Aristippus balanced the pursuit of pleasure with self-mastery, challenging both the austerity of his critics and our modern assumptions about ancient philosophy.(05:11) Wining And Dining (15:29) Desire and Risk (21:49) You Need Philosophy (25:42) The Cyrenaics (36:38) Respect Aristippus's Consistency(41:54) His Daughter and Rejecting Social Convention***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it's a free download): https://stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/
In this episode, Michael and Caleb explore Meditations 4.49-51, where Marcus Aurelius discusess resilience, misfortune, death, and simplicity. Be like a promontory against crashing waves.(01:09) 49, Section 1(08:20) 49, Section 2(11:21) It's Not Things Themselves That Harm Us(15:44) Powerful Phrases(17:45) Stoicism Is For Everyone(21:21) 50(33:39) 51***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it's a free download): https://stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/
Goodhart's Law says: when a measure becomes a target, it ceases to be a good measure. But if that's true, how should we measure our philosophical progress? In this episode, Michael Tremblay wrestles with this question.***Download the Stoa app (free): https://stoameditation.com/podFor those who find the app valuable but face financial constraints, email us for a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music: https://ancientlyre.com/
et these tested Stoic strategies pull you out of bed and back into life's beauty. Michael and Caleb explore ancient wisdom for reconnecting with meaning through nature, duty, and proper thinking.(00:47) Set Up(04:33) Crisis in Thinking(10:29) Finding Purpose(19:18) Beauty(26:59) Play With Time(38:43) Be Gentle(42:08) Summary *** Download the Stoa app (free): https://stoameditation.com/podFor those who find the app valuable but face financial constraints, email us for a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music: https://ancientlyre.com/
No one chooses to be wrong. This core Stoic teaching, inherited from Socrates, shaped how ancient philosophers viewed human behavior and mistakes. In this episode, Caleb explores why the Stoics believed people only do what they think is best – even when those choices seem obviously wrong to others.The episode tackles challenging questions: How do addictions and bad habits fit into this framework? What does this mean for personal responsibility? And most importantly, how can we use this ancient insight to better understand ourselves and others?Read this letterVideo animation of this letter***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it's a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/
Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional. In this episode, we explore a powerful Buddhist concept that mirrors Stoic wisdom: the Second Arrow. The first arrow is the pain life throws at us - rejection, loss, failure. The second arrow? That's the one we shoot at ourselves through our reactions, stories, and judgments. Michael Tremblay discusses the Buddhist parable of the second arrow and what it means for practicing Stoics.***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it's a free download): https://stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/
Author and Podcaster Noah Rasheta explores the parallels between Buddhism and Stoicism with Michael Tremblay.Whether you're seeking practical wisdom or philosophical insight, this conversation offers tools for living more skillfully – regardless of which tradition resonates with you.From handling grief and identity to achieving wisdom, we uncover where these philosophies converge and diverge.Noah breaks down core Buddhist concepts like the three poisons (desire, aversion, and ignorance) and the practice of mindful awareness, and Michael talks about how these ideas map onto Stoic ideas about reflection and living according to nature. He shares personal stories about losing his business identity and finding peace during difficult parenting moments.Whether you're seeking practical wisdom or philosophical insight, this conversation offers tools for living more skillfully – regardless of which tradition resonates with you.(01:24) The Goal Of Life(13:11) Judging Ourselves(19:23) Habitual Responses(25:04) The Middle Way(30:44) Identity(43:37) Wisdom(54:00) Practice***Download the Stoa app (it's a free download): https://stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/
Caleb and Michael discuss Stoic epistemology—how to think well, avoid ignorance, and form justified beliefs. They explore the importance of skepticism, setting realistic standards for truth, and cultivating expertise to navigate complex decisions.(00:00) Common Sense(04:54) Default To Skepticism(09:38) Criterion of Truth(18:31) Common Sense(29:10) Building Confidence Through Expertise (35:01) Epistemic Reserve Clause(42:27) Takeaways***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it's a free download): https://stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/
Caleb Ontiveros makes the case that Stoicism is more intuitive than you might think. He argues that if minor setbacks don't ruin our lives, why should major ones? This episode explores how Stoic ideas about virtue, happiness, and adversity align with our deepest intuitions about living well.***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it's a free download): https://stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/
Bryan Caplan, economist and bestselling author, discusses practical wisdom from modern economics and ancient philosophy.He argues against medicalization of human behavior, champions personal agency, and reveals why appeasement often beats confrontation. Caplan shows how lessons from economics can serve as self-help and why creating a "social bubble" – the modern version of an Epicurean garden – might be the smartest way to navigate modern life.The conversation spans Epicurean and Stoic perspectives on death, social obligations, and the thinker Thomas Szasz.Self-Help Is Like a VaccineThe Myth of the Rational VoterCaplan on Szasz***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it's a free download): https://stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/
Michael and Caleb explore how understanding ourselves as our faculty of choice—not our bodies, possessions, or reputation—transforms our approach to life's challenges. Learn how clarifying what we are (and aren't) guides self-improvement and decision-making, unlocks insights in Stoic theory, and ultimately leads to a more tranquil existence.(06:10) Why It Matters Who We Are(09:30) What Are We?(16:28) You Are Not Your Thoughts (24:25) Personal Identity And Indifferents(30:29) Solving What Is Up To You(34:34) So How Do We Live?(43:22) We Really Really Cannot Be Harmed By Others***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it's a free download): https://stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/
Why Epictetus tells us to compare our suffering to others. This simple exercise can help you in times of crisis. Join Michael as he breaks down Epictetus's Handbook 26.***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it's a free download): https://stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Lynda Sloneker, President of StoaUSA, a Christian homeschool speech and debate league. They are also joined by Lynda's daughter, Alyssa. They discuss Stoa's history and mission and how it has personally impacted Alyssa's journey as a college student. They talk about debating with kindness and charity and the benefits of debating that extend beyond future career options. They conclude by discussing how debate has changed in light of the current political climate and how Stoa is working to fix what has been broken.