Podcasts about Stoic

In this letter, Seneca critiques sophistical argumentation, highlighting how it exercises wit without purpose and distracts from the essentials of living a good life. Today's episode is an excerpt from The Tao Of Seneca produced by Tim Ferriss' Audio. Get the free PDF at tim.blog/seneca

The most misunderstood Stoic practice is Memento Mori - remember you will die. Dr. Laurie Santos, an expert on the science of happiness, joins Ryan to share the research behind why thinking about your mortality is proven to increase happiness. Dr. Laurie shares how to balance negative and positive visualizations for a fulfilling life, the Stoic practices that she swears by, and practical applications of Stoic and Buddhist teachings. Dr. Laurie Santos is an expert on the science of happiness and the ways in which our minds lie to us about what makes us happy. Her Yale course, “Psychology and the Good Life,” teaches students how the science of psychology can provide important hints about how to make wiser choices and live a life that's happier and more fulfilling. The class became Yale's most popular course in over 300 years, with almost one out of four students enrolled. Her course has been featured in the New York Times, NBC Nightly News, The Today Show, GQ Magazine, Slate and O! Magazine. The online version of the class—The Science of Well-Being on Coursera.org—has attracted more than 4 million learners from around the world. A winner of numerous awards both for her science and teaching, she was recently voted as one of Popular Science Magazine's “Brilliant 10” young minds, and was named in Time Magazine as a “Leading Campus Celebrity.” Listen to Dr. Laurie's podcast, The Happiness Lab, where she shares the latest scientific research on what it means to be truly happy. Check out more of Dr. Laurie's work at DrLaurieSantos.com and follow her Instagram @LaurieSantosOfficial, X @LaurieSantos, and on YouTube and TikTok @DrLaurieSantos

Announcing The Classical Society - https://theclassicalsociety.comPart 2 of 3 of Caesar's Civil War series. After his lightning conquest of Italy, Caesar faces his greatest challenge yet as Pompey masses a vast army in Greece. In this episode:Caesar's second dictatorship and revolutionary reforms in Rome—citizenship grants, debt relief, and restoration of the proscribedThe dangerous winter crossing of the Adriatic, splitting his forces against Pompey's naval supremacyThe siege of Dyrrhachium and Caesar's ambitious 17-mile circumvallation to trap PompeyThe catastrophic defeat that nearly ended Caesar's career—his worst loss yetThe brilliant strategic retreat showcasing the iron discipline of Caesar's veteransYoung Curio's tragic death in Africa, highlighting Caesar's reliance on inexperienced lieutenantsThe fateful convergence at Pharsalus as both armies march into ThessalyThe decisive moment when Caesar's hidden fourth line shattered Pompey's cavalry chargeThe fall of the Roman Republic as 15,000 Romans died by Roman swordsCaesar's own account reveals a commander pushed to his absolute limits, saved only by the loyalty of soldiers who would "rather eat tree bark than let Pompey slip through our fingers." The battle that destroyed the old Republic hinged on a single morning's decisions, proving that world history sometimes turns on the choices of one man in command. As Caesar stood over the carnage at Pharsalus, he reportedly said: "This is what they chose. After so many deeds in the service of my country, they would have me, Julius Caesar, condemned as a criminal, unless I sought the protection of an army."Works Cited: Gareth Sampson, The Battle of Pharsalus Matthias Gelzer, Caesar: Politician and Statesman James Froude, Caesar: A Sketch, Raaflaub (ed.) Landmark Caesar. (Affiliate links - support the show!) Thanks to our sponsor, Ai Labs. Visit austinlab.ai to chat with a team member about custom Agentic AI power solutions for your SMB to Enterprise level business.  Powered by Shokworks.Also Thanks Dr. Richard Johnson, the Crassus to this Caesar series!

Win or lose, what matters, the Stoics believed, was that we tried. That we did our best.

Send us a textActs 17:16-21Now while Paul was waiting for them at Athens, his spirit was provoked within him as he saw that the city was full of idols. So he reasoned in the synagogue with the Jews and the devout persons, and in the marketplace every day with those who happened to be there. Some of the Epicurean and Stoic philosophers also conversed with him. And some said, “What does this babbler wish to say?” Others said, “He seems to be a preacher of foreign divinities”—because he was preaching Jesus and the resurrection. And they took him and brought him to the Areopagus, saying, “May we know what this new teaching is that you are presenting? For you bring some strange things to our ears. We wish to know therefore what these things mean.” Now all the Athenians and the foreigners who lived there would spend their time in nothing except telling or hearing something new.Support the show

It's rather sad—almost sacriligeous—that more people don't know who shaped Marcus's philosophical worldview.

Send us a textEnd your day with this calming Stoic meditation designed to help you unwind, reflect, and sleep deeply. Drawing on ancient Stoic wisdom, you'll be guided through mindful presence, a gentle nightly review, acceptance of the day, and a cosmic perspective to let go of stress and reconnect with peace. Blending reflection, gratitude, and timeless philosophy, this practice is perfect for ending the day with clarity, calm, and inner stillness.Free SPQR Stoic Reset Kit — 5-min audio + 1-page protocol to stop anxiety spirals fast. → stoichandbook.co/toolkit

In this Mere Mortals book review, I tackle Right Thing, Right Now by Ryan Holiday, the third in his Stoic Virtue series. It's a slower, deeper, more reflective book centred on justice, the virtue that's hardest to sell and hardest to live by. I share why this wasn't my favourite read, but why it might be the most meaningful one for the long game of life.00:00 – Intro & Context on the Stoic Virtue Series 00:30 – Book Stats: Length, Release Date, Structure 01:13 – Theme of Justice & Ryan's Intentions 02:00 – Why Justice Isn't a Popular Topic 02:56 – How This Book Differs from Others in the Series 04:04 – Tone, Chapter Layout & Personal Reflections 04:39 – Breakdown of the 3 Sections: Me, We, All 05:18 – A Slower, More Reflective Reading Experience 06:24 – Ryan's Personal Notes & Writing it for His Kids 07:12 – Why Justice Becomes More Important with Age 07:55 – Final Thoughts & Rating (7.5/10) 08:13 – Who This Book is For (and Not For) 09:01 – Recommendations & Legacy Focus 09:19 – Political Themes & Why Some Might Not Enjoy It 10:00 – Closing Comments & Call to Action Connect with Mere Mortals:Website: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/Discord: https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReUTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/meremortalspodsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcasts/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcast Connect with Mere Mortals:Website: https://www.meremortalspodcasts.com/Discord: https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReUTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/meremortalspodsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcasts/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcastsValue 4 Value Support:Boostagram: https://www.meremortalspodcasts.com/supportPaypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcast

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast: Stoic Quotes SeriesIn this episode of the Stoic Quotes Series, we explore a simple yet powerful reminder found in Meditations by Marcus Aurelius:“If you seek tranquillity, do less.”– Democritus, Frg. B.3, quoted in Marcus Aurelius, Meditations, Book 4.24While the quote originates from Democritus, Marcus builds on it with a distinctly Stoic perspective. Instead of withdrawing from life like the Epicureans, Marcus teaches us to do what is essential—what the logos of a social being requires—and to do it well.In this episode, we explore the balance between minimalism and duty, and how practicing focused action leads to clarity and peace. If you're feeling overwhelmed, this quote offers a path back to simplicity and purpose.For more authentic Stoic quotes, visit viastoica.com, where each quote is verified and referenced so you can use it in your own writings or daily reflections.Browse our quote collections:viastoica.com/stoic-quotesviastoica.com/seneca-quotesviastoica.com/epictetus-quotesviastoica.com/marcus-aurelius-quotesSubscribe to hear more quote episodes every Friday and full-length interviews and reflections every Tuesday. If this helped you, please leave a review—it helps us reach more people on the Stoic path.www.viastoica.comviastoica.com/stoic-life-coachingviastoica.com/benny-vonckenviastoica.com/brendan-hogletwitter.com/viastoicaReach us: info@viastoica.comProduced by: badmic.com

You can't expand your perspective if you never step out of your bubble. In today's episode, Ryan sits down with Chet Garner, host of The Daytripper, to explore how traveling, even just one town over, can completely change the way you see the world. They talk about why you don't need to leave the country (or even your own state) to gain a new perspective, how the Stoics thought about travel in the ancient world, and how to use everyday adventures to raise more curious, open-minded kids.Chet Garner is the creator, producer, and host of "The Daytripper", an 11-time Emmy-Award winning travel show airing on PBS stations across the country.You can check out Chet's show The Daytripper on PBS and his videos on YouTube @TheDaytripperTV . Follow Chet on Instagram @ChetTripper and see more at thedaytripper.com

It drives you nuts—the things some people believe and do and say. But here's the thing: It does make sense. It makes sense to them.

Lately the ancient philosophy of Stoicism is having a bit of a resurgence. This hour we learn about the philosophy, why people are drawn to it, and how to live like a Stoic. Plus, we look at how Stoicism appears in music. GUESTS: Massimo Pigliucci: The K.D. Irani Professor of Philosophy at the City College of New York. He is the author of books including Beyond Stoicism: A Guide to the Good Life with Stoics, Skeptics, Epicureans, and Other Ancient Philosophers, How to Be a Stoic: Using Ancient Philosophy to Live a Modern Life, and Nonsense on Stilts: How to Tell Science from Bunk. He also writes the Substack “Figs in Winter: Stoicism and Beyond.” Melinda Latour: Associate Professor of Musicology at Tufts University. She is author of The Voice of Virtue: Moral Song and the Practice of French Stoicism, 1574-1652. She is also editor of The Relentless Pursuit of Tone: Timbre in Popular Music. Support the show: http://www.wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Stoic philosophers understood something timeless about human nature: we spend much of our lives outside the present moment.We worry about the future, regret the past, and overlook the only time we ever truly possess—now.Among the Stoics, Seneca in particular had a clear warning: do not waste time.

Why is self-command and self-knowledge so elusive? How can we find it? Well, Epictetus can show us the way, as he did for Marcus and Hadrian and countless others over the centuries.

In Episode 318 of Through a Therapist's Eyes, we explore the enduring appeal - and potential pitfalls - of Stoicism in today's world. While its core virtues of courage, temperance, wisdom, and justice offer a resilient framework for navigating life's challenges, misapplying Stoic techniques can lead to emotional suppression, social withdrawal, or an unhealthy reliance on self-control. Join us as we reflect on the deeper purpose behind Stoic practices like negative visualization and journaling, ask how they've helped (or hurt) in real-life situations, and consider how to strike a healthy balance between emotional awareness and rational virtue. Tune in to see Stoicism Through a Therapist's Eyes.

You may find yourself struggling with certain emotions or having poor reactions to things – anger, for example. You can treat the symptom. Meditation, anger management techniques, deep breathing. Marcus Aurelius had a long list of anger management tools, and using them isn't a bad thing.But as a Stoic, you must dig deeper. You must ask: what is the underlying cause here?This podcast is listener-supported; if you would like to support the Strong Stoic (as well as gain access to exclusive content), you can do so on Patreon or Substack:Patreon: www.patreon.com/brandontumblinSubstack: https://strongstoic.substack.com

The key to life, Epictetus said, was not to dream for things to be a certain way but to dream for them to be the way they were. To be grateful that you had the fate you had.

Twitter Space 28 June 2025In this episode, I engage with the X community to explore universally preferable behavior (UPB) and ethics. We discuss mentorship's role in personal development for young men, particularly regarding challenges from single motherhood and perceptions of authority. I critique Stoic philosophy for its lack of practical applicability and advocate for UPB as a rational ethical framework. Emphasizing the relational nature of truth and morality, I encourage listeners to reflect on their own moral landscapes. I conclude by inviting them to access my free resources at freedomain.com for further insights on ethics and personal responsibility.FOLLOW ME ON X! https://x.com/StefanMolyneuxGET MY NEW BOOK 'PEACEFUL PARENTING', THE INTERACTIVE PEACEFUL PARENTING AI, AND THE FULL AUDIOBOOK!https://peacefulparenting.com/Join the PREMIUM philosophy community on the web for free!Subscribers get 12 HOURS on the "Truth About the French Revolution," multiple interactive multi-lingual philosophy AIs trained on thousands of hours of my material - as well as AIs for Real-Time Relationships, Bitcoin, Peaceful Parenting, and Call-In Shows!You also receive private livestreams, HUNDREDS of exclusive premium shows, early release podcasts, the 22 Part History of Philosophers series and much more!See you soon!https://freedomain.locals.com/support/promo/UPB2025

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on StoicismWhat is Stoicism? Is it about suppressing your emotions and becoming a cold, detached thinker? Or is it the path to inner freedom, resilience, and purpose?In this deep-dive episode of the Via Stoica Podcast, Benny and Brendan unpack the true meaning of Stoicism, exploring its origins, key concepts, and modern relevance. From virtue ethics and emotional mastery to the dichotomy of control and living in accordance with nature, they guide you through the heart of this ancient philosophy with clarity and personal insight.Learn how Stoicism is not about becoming emotionless or selfish, but about becoming the kind of person who improves themselves and contributes meaningfully to the world.

Looking for practical strategies to deal with difficult people? In today's episode, communication expert Jefferson Fisher shares a 3-step process for navigating conflict, especially when kindness and empathy no longer work.Jefferson Fisher is one of the most respected voices on communication and arguments in the world. He is a Texas board certified personal injury attorney and law firm owner of Fisher Firm. Millions of people and some of the world's leading brands come to Jefferson for advice and practical strategies to communicate more effectively. Follow Jefferson on Instagram and X @Jefferson_Fisher, on YouTube @JeffersonFisher and on TikTok @JustAskJefferson

Send us a textWe're onto a brand new book the Enchiridion (or 'the Handbook') this book was written by a former slave to help other reach inner freedom. For this series we're reading the whole chapter every day and looking to understand the principles from real world experience. This week we explored Epictitus's first rule for inner freedom. And... had some fun along the way... Listen to Justin ace a stoic spelling quiz! The dichotomy of control is maybe the most central tenet of Stoicism. But this week we're taking it much deeper than we have before. It's easy to forget how to say a word once in a while... Have you ever seen somebody struggle for more than 2 minutes to pronounce a word that they claim they "know"? Get ready!Desert Island Discs Part 2 we bring on Bruce Peck as this weeks guest. Which tracks will he choose? Which book? And which luxury item? Why does he try to cheat this game and rob it of its original purpose? All valid questions and all except the last one will be answered!

You're not here to impress, you're here to make a difference. In this PT. 2 episode, historian and bestselling author Rutger Bregman sits down with Ryan for a deep dive into what a meaningful life actually looks like and why so many people end up wasting their one shot at it. They talk about how easy it is to chase the wrong goals, why real impact often goes unnoticed, and how to realign your work with what truly matters.Rutger Bregman is a Dutch historian and author. His latest book Moral Ambition: Stop Wasting Your Talent and Start Making a Difference was released in April 2025. ‍‍In 2024, Rutger co-founded The School for Moral Ambition, a non-profit organization inspired by his latest book, Moral Ambition. The initiative helps people to take the step toward an impactful career.‍Follow Rutger on Instagram and X | @RutgerBregman

The American experiment—based as it was on individual liberty—was built on the necessity of virtue and honor. A people freed from the tyranny of government, they understood, still needed to be checked by their own morality, philosophy and religion.

There is something that can't be taken from us by even the strongest strong man or the most unlucky of external events.

Tune in to hear:What are anti-goals and why are they often just as, if not more, powerful than goals?What does the prospect theory of behavioral economics have to say about the uniquely motivating power of a villain?Why do humans have asymmetrical risk preferences and what does this reveal about human nature?What did famous investor Charlie Munger mean by his famous quote “invert, always invert?”What is the Stoic exercise of “Premitatio Malorum” and how can it be used in everyday life?LinksThe Soul of WealthOrion's Market Volatility PortalConnect with UsMeet Dr. Daniel CrosbyCheck Out All of Orion's PodcastsPower Your Growth with OrionCompliance Code: 1754-U-25176

Welcome to The Via Stoica Podcast: Stoic Quotes SeriesIn this episode of the Stoic Quotes Series, we reflect on a striking line found in Seneca's Consolation to Marcia—originally attributed to the slave philosopher Publius Syrus:“Whatever fate one man can strike can come to all of us alike.”– Publius, quoted in Seneca, Dialogues and Essays, Consolation to Marcia, 9This quote is part of a powerful letter Seneca wrote to a grieving mother who had lost her son in battle. He reminds us that suffering is not reserved for the few—it's part of the shared human experience. In this episode, we explore how to use this truth not as a source of despair, but as a source of preparation, connection, and compassion.We'll break down the quote, put it in its historical context, and offer Stoic practices to help you reflect on loss, unpredictability, and the strength found in solidarity.If you're looking for more wisdom like this, visit viastoica.com, where you'll find hundreds of authentic Stoic quotes—each verified and referenced so you can trust and use them.Browse our quote collections:viastoica.com/stoic-quotesviastoica.com/seneca-quotesviastoica.com/epictetus-quotesviastoica.com/marcus-aurelius-quotesMake sure to subscribe for future quote episodes and our regular Tuesday interviews and reflections. And if this episode helped you, please leave a review—it helps us reach more people on the Stoic path.www.ViaStoica.comviastoica.com/stoic-life-coachingviastoica.com/benny-vonckenviastoica.com/brendan-hogletwitter.com/ViaStoicaReach us: info@viastoica.comProduced by: badmic.com

n this episode, we talk about a feeling that hits us all at some point — when your work goes unnoticed, and you start to question if it's even worth it. Manuel shares how this moment has happened to him (more than once), and why the Stoic reminder to rely on our own judgment — not on reputation — can shift everything. Key Takeaways:✅ Everyone faces moments when their message feels ignored.✅ External recognition is unreliable — inner clarity is not.✅ Creating from authenticity brings freedom, not pressure.✅ True power is trusting your perspective, not chasing applause. Make sure to subscribe and follow me for updates, tips, and more ways to stay in the flow! You can connect with me on:• Instagram: @flow_network__• YouTube: @flow_network__• TikTok: @theflownetwork• LinkedIn Newsletter: Daily Flow Stay tuned for more great content, and as always, stay in the flow!

What Epictetus learned in his fascinating life—beginning in slavery and culminating in a legacy as one of the most influential philosophers of all time—was simple, profound, and enduring. It's why countless Roman families sent their children to learn from Epictetus at his school in Nicopolis. And that's why we're spending this month doing a deep dive into Epictetus—because if reading him changed Marcus Aurelius' life, how might he change yours?

You could be doing anything with your life…so why are you choosing this? Historian and bestselling author Rutger Bregman joins Ryan to question everything we tend to believe about success, work, and impact. They discuss why many “prestigious” careers might actually be pointless, how a few regular people pulled off one of the biggest moral wins in history, and why meaningful work rarely looks like what society celebrates.Rutger Bregman is a Dutch historian and author. His latest book Moral Ambition: Stop Wasting Your Talent and Start Making a Difference was released in April 2025. ‍‍In 2024, Rutger co-founded The School for Moral Ambition, a non-profit organization inspired by his latest book, Moral Ambition. The initiative helps people to take the step toward an impactful career.‍Follow Rutger on Instagram and X | @RutgerBregman

This summer has been, for me, the summer of beauty.What I mean by that is, this summer in my household, we have focused on making our home beautiful. Painting. Lawn care. Home decorations. Feng shui, if you will. It's not that we were negligent of these things in the past—though you can listen to my earlier reflections on lawn care and decide for yourself—but this year, we've paid extra attention to them.And it got me thinking: what role does beauty play in a Stoic life?This podcast is listener-supported; if you would like to support the Strong Stoic (as well as gain access to exclusive content), you can do so on Patreon or Substack:Patreon: www.patreon.com/brandontumblinSubstack: https://strongstoic.substack.com

Seneca practiced poverty. Marcus Aurelius mentally rehearsed being criticized and misunderstood. Why did they put themselves in these uncomfortable positions?

Becky Schmooke is a mom, speaker, author, and leadership coach who blends mindfulness, stoic philosophy, and a whole lot of humor to help us lead others well by first leading ourselves. Her work empowers others to live with intentionality, rather than reactivity.  Today's conversation dives into what real leadership looks like, how to turn obstacles into opportunities, and how to practice the kind of presence that creates change. Leadership isn't about a title—it's about the small choices we make every day to learn, grow, and help those around us. Connect with Becky: beckyschmooke.com Read Choose the Handle That Holds: A Guide to Living, Leading and Owning the Moments That Matter   As always, I'd love to hear from you! Subscribe, leave a review, or follow PG-ish on IG @pgishparenting, or you can always find me at www.pgishparenting.com.

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, The Podcast on Stoicism.What does it truly mean to be a Stoic man?In today's episode of the Via Stoica Podcast, Benny and Brendan explore what modern masculinity often gets wrong and how Stoicism offers a powerful alternative. They challenge the cliché of the emotionless, lone wolf and instead present the Stoic man as someone rooted in virtue, self-awareness, and social responsibility.From the myths of toxic strength and emotional suppression to the practical application of Stoic role ethics, this conversation gets to the heart of what it means to lead, to feel, and to grow with integrity.You'll hear personal reflections on masculinity, mistakes, and identity, as well as practical Stoic insights from Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and Epictetus.Topics covered:Common misconceptions about Stoicism and masculinityWhy emotional intelligence is a Stoic strengthHow compassion and kindness are core Stoic valuesWhy inner resilience matters more than outward powerRole ethics and the path to purposeWhat real courage looks like in everyday lifeWhy being a Stoic man means being a steady example, not a dominant force

Our lives are unpredictable. We are at the mercy of so many forces.

What if life's biggest challenges weren't roadblocks, but invitations to grow stronger and feel more alive? Learn how ancient Stoic wisdom can help you reframe adversity, build emotional strength, and find calm in the chaos. Discover why becoming a “thankaholic” might be the key to lasting joy and how preparing for hard times can actually make you happier.Join Matt and guest William B. Irvine for this powerful episode of Good Mood Revolution, and unlock the tools to turn setbacks into breakthroughs.0:00 Intro5:26 Reframing Setbacks As Stoic Challenges15:05 Biggest Cost Of Setbacks20:22 Choosing Humor Over Victimhood25:32 Equanimity As Life's Ultimate Goal30:12 The Five Second Rule For Anger35:33 Closing Thoughts And ResourcesResources Mentioned:

Join the Something For Everybody Community on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/AaronMachbitz - Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/SomethingForEverybody - Start transforming your life today & download this FREE guide.

Thanks for watching and listening!Gordon introduces stoicism as a philosophy focused on controlling one's thoughts, actions, and reactions, particularly highlighting Marcus Aurelius' teachings and Ryan Holiday's modern interpretation. He explores how stoicism helped him during his personal recovery and shares a specific quote from Meditations that influenced his perspective on self-love and the importance of focusing on personal goals rather than seeking external validation. Gordon relates these Stoic principles to his experiences in running and business, encouraging listeners to base their sanity on personal efforts rather than external opinions and recommending Ryan Holiday's work for further exploration of Stoicism.Thanks again!

When we think of great Stoic figures like Marcus Aurelius, Cato, and Epictetus, we tend to focus solely on the individual, their perspective, their observations. But how did these brilliant thinkers treat those around them?Read this article here: https://dailystoic.com/6-stoic-tips-to-being-a-great-friend/

Is AI the end of creativity, or the beginning of a new artistic era? Rick Rubin returns for PT. 2 of his conversation with Ryan about how AI is reshaping creativity and why the real art still lies in the choices we make. They discuss the beauty of unexpected results, the difference between AI generating and iterating, timeless wisdom of the Tao Te Ching, and much more. Rick Rubin is a renowned American record producer and the co-founder of Def Jam Recordings, founder of American Recordings, and former co-president of Columbia Records. He has produced albums for a wide range of acclaimed artists, including the Beastie Boys, Run-DMC, Public Enemy, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Metallica, Audioslave, Rage Against the Machine, and Johnny Cash. He has won nine Grammys and has been nominated for 12 more. He has been called “the most important producer of the last 20 years” by MTV and was named on Time‘s list of the “100 Most Influential People in the World”. Check out Rick's latest project The Way of the Code: https://www.thewayofcode.com/Grab copies of Rick's book The Creative Act: A Way of Being at The Painted Porch | https://www.thepaintedporch.comCheck out Rick's podcast Tetragrammaton Follow Rick on Instagram and X @RickRubin

For all the stupidity, for all the disasters, for all the noise and uncertainty, this is actually one of the least bad moments to ever exist.

Sometimes the answers we're chasing in business and life have already been written—centuries ago. In this solo episode, Darius Mirshahzadeh dives deep into four timeless quotes by the Stoic philosopher Epictetus, exploring how ancient wisdom still holds power in modern life. Recorded from an Airbnb in Barcelona, Darius shares personal insights and stories on choosing uplifting relationships, living in alignment with purpose, breaking negative patterns, and redefining what true wealth really means. Whether you're navigating business partnerships or personal transformation, this is a philosophical deep-dive that will leave you asking the right questions about your life. In this episode, Darius will discuss: (00:00) Introduction and Context of Stoicism (02:27) The Importance of Uplifting Relationships (05:40) Devoting Life to Progress (08:25) Learning from Books and Applying Knowledge (11:02) Understanding Wealth and Wants Sponsored by: Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com. Huel: Get Huel today with this exclusive offer for New Customers of 15% OFF with code GREATNESS at https://huel.com/GREATNESS (Minimum $75 purchase). IDEO U: Enroll today and get 15% off sitewide at ideou.com/greatness.  ExpressVPN: Secure your online data today with ExpressVPN. Go to expressvpn.com/darius. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS. Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.  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

Why should a Stoic let the awfulness of the world make them feel awful? Why would we let someone else's darkness cast a shadow on our own life?

You don't have to be at the summit to start leading. In this episode, I sit down with author and leadership coach Becky Schmooke to talk about healing, self-leadership, and what it really means to take control of your life. Becky shares her 20+ year journey with an eating disorder and how her recovery—alongside her work in Stoic philosophy—inspired her to write Choose the Handle That Holds. We talk about redefining leadership (hint: it's not a job title), communicating clearly with your team and loved ones, and choosing the harder, healthier path—especially when it's uncomfortable. Whether you're managing a team, navigating recovery, or just trying to show up more fully in your life, this episode will leave you thinking deeply—and laughing just as much.   Tune in to hear: Becky's eating disorder journey and how it shaped her leadership work The Stoic philosophy that helped her finally recover during COVID How to choose the “handle that holds” when life feels out of control The leadership myths that keep entrepreneurs stuck Tools for communicating better with your team, your partner, and yourself   Connect with Becky: Instagram: @beckyschmooke Website: https://www.beckyschmooke.com/ Order your copy of Choose the Handle That Holds   Connect with Deanna: Instagram: @dietitiandeanna and @online.entrepreneur.academy Want my help and strategies to have $30, $50 or $100K launches of your online program? Apply to OEA Scale

What if AI isn't replacing creativity, but expanding it in ways we've never seen before? Rick Rubin joins Ryan to discuss the mysterious nature of using AI throughout the creative process. They talk about what vibe coding is, why structure can unlock freedom, and revisiting ancient philosophy to uncover new insights.Rick Rubin is a renowned American record producer and the co-founder of Def Jam Recordings, founder of American Recordings, and former co-president of Columbia Records. He has produced albums for a wide range of acclaimed artists, including the Beastie Boys, Run-DMC, Public Enemy, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Metallica, Audioslave, Rage Against the Machine, and Johnny Cash. He has won nine Grammys and has been nominated for 12 more. He has been called “the most important producer of the last 20 years” by MTV and was named on Time‘s list of the “100 Most Influential People in the World”.

Stress, anxiety, and concern don't exist outside us but within us—which means we have the power to do something about it, too.

A Note from James:Man, what a fascinating career Robert Rosenkranz has had—multi-billionaire, involved in virtually every part of finance and American industry. He wrote a book called The Stoic Capitalist, and what really stands out is how he's actively applied stoic principles to achieve immense success throughout his career. Even from a young age, stoicism played a crucial role, guiding him through critical business decisions. It's a real pleasure speaking with Robert—an American icon.Episode Description:James welcomes Robert Rosenkranz, author of The Stoic Capitalist: Advice for the Exceptionally Ambitious, to discuss how applying stoicism's timeless principles helped him navigate pivotal career decisions and financial challenges. Robert candidly shares his experiences—from early high-stress deals to launching a private equity firm where he risked his entire net worth—and explains why stoic philosophy remains essential for rational decision-making in business and life. The conversation highlights how embracing uncertainty and questioning assumptions can lead to clarity and resilience in a constantly changing world.What You'll Learn:How to differentiate between rational risks and emotional fears in critical decisions.Strategies for recognizing and overcoming cognitive distortions like catastrophizing.Practical applications of stoicism in modern investing and entrepreneurship.Insights into adapting to rapid technological changes, particularly AI.The importance of spousal support and personal relationships in career success.Timestamped Chapters:[00:00] Introduction to Robert Rosenkranz[02:00] The First Major Deal and Stoic Principles[05:00] Risk and Rational Decision Making[09:00] The Role of Biographies and Early Influences[12:00] The Importance of Spousal Support[28:00] Stoicism and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy[34:00] Exploring Financial Trends and Technology[35:00] The Impact of Artificial Intelligence[36:00] Addressing Fears and Job Displacement[37:00] Adapting to Technological Change[44:00] The State of the US Economy[48:00] Investment Strategies and Market Behavior[54:00] Stoicism and Its Influence on Investing[57:00] The Role of Social Media in Society[63:00] Reflections on Public Service and Education[67:00] Conclusion and Final ThoughtsAdditional Resources:The Stoic Capitalist by Robert RosenkranzHow to Think Like a Roman Emperor by Donald RobertsonThe Obstacle Is the Way by Ryan Holiday"The Smoot-Hawley Tariff and the Great Depression" - The EconomistOpen to DebateOur Sponsors:Pack up and go even further with the Defender 110. Learn more at LandRoverUSA.com/DefenderHead to rugiet.com/JAMES and use code JAMES to get 15% off today!Secure your online data TODAY by visiting ExpressVPN.com/ALTUCHERSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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

Coming to terms with pain and setbacks and unfairness is critical to moving forward, to affecting change, to being a leader, to basic happiness.

“Always do right. This will gratify some people and astonish the rest.” - Mark TwainIn this powerful talk, Ryan explains why justice is the true measure of leadership. This is a call to do the right thing, not because it's easy or profitable, but because it's the only thing that truly lasts.