Podcasts about Stoic

If your New Year motivation didn't make it to February, this episode is for you. Ryan and his business partner and longtime friend, Brent Underwood, talk about how waiting for permission, perfect conditions, or external validation quietly turns into procrastination, even for high performers. They discuss why open-ended ambitions are harder than deadlines, how success can actually make starting new things scarier, and the trap of telling yourself, “I'll get to it later.”Let's not write the year off just yet. The Daily Stoic New Year New You challenge is opening back up for a limited time. Learn more and sign up today at dailystoic.com/challenge.

From corruption to tyranny, the Stoics refused to sit on the sidelines. They tried to change things.

Few writers understand American culture like Chuck Klosterman, which is why he joins Ryan ahead of the Super Bowl to talk about how football reshaped American culture.In this episode, Chuck and Ryan discuss what football really reveals about American culture, power, and the stories we tell ourselves about expertise and control. Chuck shares his observations, strange historical parallels, and personal stories that connect sports to technology, identity, and how monocultures form and eventually fade.

It's always been a dilemma: Why should I be honest when no one else seems to be? Why should I play by the rules when others are so visibly breaking them? Why should I be respectful or kind or fair when nobody else is?

Obstacles, adversaries, pitfalls, and bad luck. It's going to be there. It's going to happen.

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. The Colin McEnroe Show is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode! Subscribe to The Noseletter, an email compendium of merriment, secrets, and ancient wisdom brought to you by The Colin McEnroe Show. Join the conversation on Facebook and Twitter. Colin McEnroe, Dylan Reyes, and Coco Cooley contributed to this show, which originally aired on July 9, 2025.Support the show: http://www.wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When jarred by circumstances, Marcus Aurelius writes, we have to revert back to ourselves. We have to come back to the rhythm. We have to intervene. We can't let the challenges win.Let's not write the year off just yet. The Daily Stoic New Year New You challenge is opening back up for a limited time. Learn more and sign up today at dailystoic.com/challenge.

We have to stay at it. We have to accept the losses that come…without accepting the status quo. We should not give up.

Joe Pappalardo traces the post-service lives of Company F leaders: Scott builds railroads in Mexico while Brooksbecomes a South Texas judge battling alcoholism, establishing the stoic, disciplined template defining the modern Texas Ranger identity and legacy.1904 TEXAS RANGERS

Joe Pappalardo profiles Captain Will Scott, a stoic tactician who utilized undercover operations and deliberate force, contextualizing the Rangers as agents of political change during 1886-87 enforcing barbed wire boundaries against open-range traditions amidst economic shifts and severe weather.DALLAS 1920

Immigration is a complicated issue. Crime is complicated. But this is not complicated.

I am a public philosopher, it is my only job. I am enabled to do this job, in large part, thanks to support from my listeners and readers. You can support my work, keep it independent and online, at https://stoicismpod.com/members Looking for more Stoic content? Consider my 3x/week newsletter "Stoic Brekkie": https://stoicbrekkie.com Musonius Rufus Discourse 12: https://archive.org/details/MUSONIUSRUFUSSTOICFRAGMENTS In this episode, I respond to a candid listener email asking about the Stoic position on sex work. The question is not framed with hostility or judgment, and for that reason I take it seriously. This is not an episode condemning women, sex workers, or anyone's personal choices. It is an attempt to think clearly and Stoically about consent, justice, harm, and choice. I begin by clarifying what the listener is actually asking. He is not asking whether men are wrong to engage sex workers, but whether women selling sex is unjust from a Stoic perspective. That distinction matters. Stoicism is not interested in purity rules or guilt. It is interested in whether actions are chosen rationally, freely, and without injustice. I then address my own bias. I do not like sex work as a practice, largely because I am skeptical that it is ever entirely free from coercion, manipulation, or long-term harm. I make that bias explicit so it can be accounted for rather than hidden. A Stoic answer requires setting personal discomfort aside and asking whether something is unjust, not whether it feels distasteful. To explore the classical position, I turn to Musonius Rufus and his extremely restrictive views on sex. Musonius argues that sex is only justified within marriage and only for procreation. I explain why I find this position impractical, overly rigid, and inconsistent with the rest of Stoic ethics. Stoicism is about rational choice, not outcome fixation, and reducing sex to reproduction ignores human health, intimacy, and context. From there, I outline what Stoicism actually cares about. Sex is unjust only when it involves harm, coercion, deception, addiction, or unfair leverage. If a sex worker is freely choosing her work, has the power to refuse clients, is not being forced by circumstance or threat, and if the client is acting honestly and without deception, then no injustice is clearly present. In that case, there is no Stoic violation simply because money is exchanged. I also stress that moral clarity does not end with permissibility. Just because something is not unjust does not mean it is automatically wise, healthy, or worth repeating. Stoicism asks us to remain attentive to who we are becoming through our choices. Avoiding injustice does not excuse us from remaining pro-social, reflective, and responsible for our future character. I conclude by emphasizing that Stoicism offers very little in the way of sexual rules, but a great deal in the way of ethical reasoning. The question is not whether sex work is “unstoic” in the abstract. The question is always whether a choice is rational, just, non-harmful, and aligned with the kind of person we are trying to become. Listening on Spotify? Leave a comment! Share your thoughts. Podcast artwork by Original Randy: https://www.originalrandy.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bert Kreischer and Ryan continue their conversation about the tension between discipline and indulgence, why Bert sometimes feels better hungover than sober, and the pull of routines built around punishment and excess. Bert talks about quitting drinking, the daily “witching hour,” and why good news can be just as unsettling as bad.Bert Kreischer is a stand up comedian, actor, and podcast host of 2 Bears, 1 Cave. You can watch both his movie The Machine and now his latest show, Free Bert, on Netflix! Follow Bert on Instagram, TikTok, X, and YouTube Bert's new series Free Bert is officially out on Netflix! Watch Here: https://www.netflix.com/title/81696123

Everitt and Ashworth cover Nero's first five years under Seneca and Burrus, noting how Agrippina's death liberated his artistic pursuits while paranoia drove the elimination of rivals including his wife Octavia and stoic aristocrats.

It always feels like the traditional values are slipping away…Maybe they are. Maybe they aren't.

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, where we explore how Stoic wisdom helps us navigate modern life. In this episode, we reflect on Epictetus' reminder:“In a similar way, you too should remind yourself that what you love is mortal, that what you love is not your own. It is granted to you for the present while and not irrevocably, not forever, but like a fig or a bunch of grapes in the appointed season. And if you long for it in the winter, you are a fool.” Epictetus, Discourses, Book 3, Chapter 24.86The message is simple and powerful: everything we enjoy, relationships, possessions, circumstances, is temporary. Suffering arises when we cling to what is gone or long for what is not present. Stoicism teaches us to align our desires with reality, appreciate what is here now, and avoid missing the present moment while chasing something absent.This connects directly with the Stoic disciplines of Desire, Assent, and Action: want only what is within your power, question the judgments that create attachment, and act with gratitude toward what you have today. Practically, this means giving attention to the people around you, appreciating what is in your life now, and remembering that everything we love is given to us only for a time.For more, check out this related article with quotes on Stoic desire and attachment:https://viastoica.com/how-to-practice-the-stoic-discipline-desire/And if you're looking for more Stoic sayings, visit viastoica.com, where you'll find hundreds of quotes with full references to the original texts:https://viastoica.com/stoic-quoteshttps://viastoica.com/marcus-aurelius-quoteshttps://viastoica.com/epictetus-quoteshttps://viastoica.com/seneca-quotesMake sure to subscribe for more Stoic Quotes episodes every Friday, as well as our Tuesday interviews and longer discussions.Support the showhttps://viastoica.comhttps://viastoica.com/stoic-life-coachinghttps://viastoica.com/benny-vonckenhttps://x.com/ViaStoicainfo@viastoica.comProduced by: badmic.com

Sometimes life happens, but here's your second chance. Now is the best time to start being the person you want to be. Let's not write the year off just yet. The Daily Stoic New Year New You challenge is opening back up for a limited time. Learn more and sign up today at dailystoic.com/challenge.

In this engaging episode of the Meditative Prayers podcast, hosted by the insightful Zach Clinton and available on Pray.com, we delve into the meaningful concept of reciprocity within our spiritual community. Along our spiritual odyssey, there are instances when cultivating reciprocity and experiencing the divine give-and-take becomes a central yearning. These moments not only deepen our faith but also rejuvenate our connections, propelling us towards our individual dreams. The steadfast truth endures: guided by the Lord, we inherently possess the capacity to manifest these aspirations, uncovering renewed hope and purpose in our journey. Rooted in sacred scriptures, we embark on an exploration of this transformative human experience. For those seeking guidance in fostering reciprocity on their faith journey, we extend a heartfelt invitation to explore the Pray.com app. By downloading it today, you can embark on a transformative journey of faith and resilience, deeply anchored in the unwavering presence of the Divine. Together, let us wholeheartedly embrace the remarkable potential for reciprocity within us, discovering boundless inspiration and strength during our shared spiritual pilgrimage. Join us in this enlightening episode as we venture toward a profound understanding of cultivating reciprocity in our spiritual aspirations, uncovering the extraordinary sense of fulfillment that resides within each one of us. Embracing the practice of praying before slumber is more than just a routine; it's an avenue to recenter your heart, aligning it with God's purpose. Let Pray.com’s Meditative Prayer be a nightly companion, deepening your bond with the Almighty and settling your spirit for a serene night's rest.Zach Clinton is from the American Association of Christian Counselors, for more information please visit: https://aacc.net/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Karen Kenney Show, I talk about what it feels like to be alive in a world that seems like it's on fire - the grief, fear, anger, overwhelm and helplessness so many people are carrying.I connect the dots between abusive power and how those in power benefit from keeping us exhausted, distracted, and in despair.I also remind us that “they've always killed the helpers” - from Abraham Lincoln and Martin Luther King Jr. to the modern-day helpers in the streets - and why that makes our presence and courage even more necessary, not less.We talk about nervous system regulation, breathing practices, EFT / Tapping, “rest as resistance”, spiritual practices, and Stoic principles like focusing on what is and isn't in our control.I share practical tools for resourcing ourselves so we can be effective helpers instead of burned-out bystanders and I walk through simple ways to calm your body and mind - so you're not operating from fear, but from a more grounded, loving, and powerful place.I wrap things up by inviting you to honestly explore your role and capacity: Are you an ally, an advocate, or an activist? Are you a citizen, reformer, rebel, or change agent?Mostly, I encourage you to ask yourself about your unique talents, experience, and gifts and how they might be used for good right now - “What can I actually do with who I am,, what I know, and what I have?”Whether that's speaking up, donating, organizing, making phone calls, creating art, caring for your neighbors, or quietly holding space.At the heart of it all is a spiritual call: “Please use me. May I be in service to love.” ❤️KAREN KENNEY BIO:Karen Kenney is a certified Spiritual Mentor, Writer, Podcaster and Coach. She's known for her dynamic storytelling, her sense of humor, her Boston accent, and her no-bullshit approach to spirituality, self-development, and transformational work.She's has been a yoga teacher since 1999, and a Thai Yoga Massage practitioner since 2008. She's also a speaker, workshop + retreat leader, and a certified Gateless Writing Instructor. Plus, she's the host and producer of The Karen Kenney Show podcast.KK coaches clients individually in her 1:1 program THE QUEST - and in her personalized HEART-TO-HEART DAYS Coaching via Voxer. She also leads a group program and community called THE NEST.Her down-to-earth approach brings together tools, resources, and stories that coach both the conscious and unconscious mind.She offers a fun and effective combination of Integrative Coaching and Spiritual Mentorship that shifts perceptions, invites self-awareness, and deepens self-knowledge… paired with powerful, science-based pattern interrupts, anxiety-stoppers, and research-backed protocols that train your brain.Her work is designed to foster and encourage independence (instead of co-dependence) and to help people learn to ultimately help and trust themselves!KAREN KENNEY LINKS:

Send us a textEpictetus didn't write books. He ran a school where students lived for years, practicing responses to insults, hardship, and loss. Marcus Aurelius wrote the Meditations as a daily training regimen—the same ideas, over and over, drilling them into his reflexes. Seneca reviewed his day every single night for decades.The Stoics weren't building a library. They were building a gymnasium for the soul.Somewhere along the way, we forgot this. We turned philosophy into content to consume. We read about the exercises instead of doing them.In this episode, I explore what Stoic training actually looked like, why our modern approach would baffle the ancients, and what practice looks like in daily life—not in theory, but in the specific exercises you can start today.Plus: I've been working on something to make this kind of structured practice easier. I'll share more soon.

Bert Kreischer wants to be Stoic. It just doesn't come naturally. In this episode, he talks with Ryan about why Stoicism feels almost impossible for him, why criticism still gets under his skin, his hot take on why Nero may have been a good emperor, and some truly insane stories from his life.Bert Kreischer is a stand up comedian, actor, and podcast host of 2 Bears, 1 Cave. You can watch both his comedy special The Machine and now his latest show, Free Bert, on Netflix! Follow Bert on Instagram, TikTok, X, and YouTube Bert's new series Free Bert is officially out on Netflix! Watch Here: https://www.netflix.com/title/81696123

This is what philosophy is about, what discipline is as a virtue: Doing things you don't want to do.Let's not write the year off just yet. The Daily Stoic New Year New You challenge is opening back up for a limited time. Learn more and sign up today at dailystoic.com/challenge.

What does it mean to live wisely in a loud, distracted, and often reactive world?Ryan Holiday—bestselling author and modern Stoic philosopher—returns to explore how wisdom actually works… not as a theory or a prize of age, but as a daily practice of reflection, humility, and courage.Ryan breaks down why wisdom takes work, how Stoic philosophy applies to modern parenting and leadership, and why the ability to think deeply and act deliberately might be the rarest skill in today's world. This conversation goes beyond ideas — it's about living wisely when life feels anything but quiet.You'll learn:How to treat wisdom as a practice, not an identityWhy wisdom demands both courage and humilityThe key to raising thoughtful kids in a noisy worldHow to find calm and clarity in times of distraction and divisionWhy discernment is the superpower for the age of AI and misinformation__________________________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this captivating episode of the Meditative Prayers podcast, hosted by the insightful Zach Clinton and accessible on Pray.com, we delve into the transformative theme of taking meaningful actions on our spiritual journey—an exploration that deeply resonates within our Christian community. Throughout our pursuit of spiritual growth, there are instances when engaging in purposeful actions and embodying our faith becomes a central aspiration. These moments not only nourish our spiritual journey but also energize our connections, propelling us toward the fulfillment of our individual dreams. The comforting truth remains unwavering: with the Lord as our steadfast guide, we possess the inherent ability to manifest these aspirations, uncovering renewed hope and purpose in our ongoing quest. Drawing profound inspiration from sacred scriptures, we embark on a journey to understand and embody the essence of this transformative human experience. For those seeking guidance in taking meaningful actions to achieve their spiritual aspirations along their faith journey, we extend a heartfelt invitation to explore the Pray.com app. By simply downloading it today, you can commence a transformative journey of faith and resilience, deeply rooted in the unwavering presence of the Divine. Together, let us wholeheartedly embrace the incredible potential for impactful actions within us, finding boundless inspiration and strength during our shared spiritual pilgrimage. We invite you to join us in this enlightening episode as we venture toward a profound understanding of actively pursuing our spiritual aspirations and discovering the extraordinary sense of purpose that resides within each one of us. Embracing the practice of praying before slumber is more than just a routine; it's an avenue to recenter your heart, aligning it with God's purpose. Let Pray.com’s Meditative Prayer be a nightly companion, deepening your bond with the Almighty and settling your spirit for a serene night's rest.Zach Clinton is from the American Association of Christian Counselors, for more information please visit: https://aacc.net/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Acta Non Verba, host Marcus Aurelius Anderson examines one of philosophy's most provocative questions: Was Seneca a hypocrite? Through the lens of Stoic philosophy and Roman history, Marcus explores the dangerous cognitive trap of hypocrisy bias and challenges listeners to examine their own inconsistencies before judging others. Episode Highlights [0:45] The Seneca Question: Was the wealthy Roman philosopher who forced loans on conquered peoples truly living by Stoic principles, or was he a hypocrite? [2:10] Understanding Hypocrisy Bias: How our tendency to judge others' inconsistencies more harshly than our own blinds us to truth and derails meaningful discussions. [6:16] The Marcus Aurelius Paradox: Even the revered philosopher-emperor struggled with anger daily and made questionable decisions like allowing his son Commodus to take power. [7:38] 30-Day Reflection Challenge: Three critical questions to examine your own hypocrisy, how you judge others, and whether imperfect messengers can still deliver truth. Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode reframes Stoicism not as a quest for unreachable perfection, but as a practice of steady progress. Drawing on the ancient idea of the prokoptōn—the one who makes progress—we explore why even Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius saw themselves as students rather than sages. Stoic philosophy, we discover, is less about arriving and more about returning: again and again, to reflection, correction, and effort. To live as a Stoic is simply to desire progress, and to keep good company along the way.

Forget party, forget class, forget any perceived differences: We must speak loudly and with one voice against those who intimidate, those who violate, those who abuse and discriminate. If we're not going to fight for the little guy, for the other, and do what we can for them, who will?

Michael McKee entered his not guilty plea Friday. Silent. Stoic. His attorney did the talking. And if you want to understand what's coming in this case, you need to understand who that attorney is.Diane Menashe defended Dr. William Husel — the Mount Carmel physician accused of murdering fourteen ICU patients with lethal fentanyl doses. She called one witness. One. Husel walked on all fourteen counts. That's the playbook. That's who McKee hired.The prosecution team includes Franklin County Prosecutor Shayla Favor, who has never tried a felony case in her career. She's third chair behind experienced prosecutors, but the optics are impossible to ignore. The heavyweight versus the newcomer. The doctor-defender versus the property code attorney.This episode goes deep on the legal chess match ahead. We break down Menashe's philosophy — why she believes presenting a defense shifts the burden to prove innocence. We examine what the suppressor allegation means for premeditation charges. And we dig into McKee's pattern of vanishing: fake addresses, expired licenses, process servers who couldn't find him for months before the murders.The evidence police have described sounds substantial. But Diane Menashe has beaten substantial before. The question now is whether she can do it again.#MichaelMcKee #SpencerTepe #MoniqueTepe #HiddenKillers #DianeMenushe #TrueCrimePodcast #ColumbusOhio #DomesticViolenceMurder #WilliamHusel #MountCarmelJoin Our SubStack For AD-FREE ADVANCE EPISODES & EXTRAS!: https://hiddenkillers.substack.com/Want to comment and watch this podcast as a video? Check out our YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/@hiddenkillerspodInstagram https://www.instagram.com/hiddenkillerspod/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hiddenkillerspod/Tik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@hiddenkillerspodX Twitter https://x.com/tonybpodListen Ad-Free On Apple Podcasts Here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/true-crime-today-premium-plus-ad-free-advance-episode/id1705422872This publication contains commentary and opinion based on publicly available information. All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Nothing published here should be taken as a statement of fact, health or legal advice.

In this compelling episode of the Meditative Prayers podcast, hosted by the insightful Zach Clinton and available on Pray.com, we delve into the profound theme of cultivating patience on our spiritual journey—an aspect that deeply resonates within our Christian community. Along the path of faith, there are moments when exercising patience, rather than seeking immediate accomplishment, becomes a paramount desire. These moments not only enrich our faith but also strengthen our relationships, propelling us toward our individual dreams. The comforting truth endures: with the Lord as our unwavering guide, we possess the innate ability to exercise patience, finding renewed hope and purpose in our journey. Drawing profound inspiration from sacred scriptures, we embark on an exploration of this transformative human experience. For those who seek guidance in nurturing patience along their path of faith, we extend a heartfelt invitation to explore the Pray.com app. By simply downloading it today, you can embark on a transformative journey of faith and resilience, deeply rooted in the unwavering presence of the Divine. Together, let us wholeheartedly embrace the incredible potential for patience within us, finding boundless inspiration and strength during our shared spiritual pilgrimage. We invite you to join us in this enlightening episode as we venture toward a profound understanding of cultivating patience on our spiritual journey and discovering the extraordinary sense of fulfillment that resides within each one of us, guided by the insightful Zach Clinton. Embracing the practice of praying before slumber is more than just a routine; it's an avenue to recenter your heart, aligning it with God's purpose. Let Pray.com’s Meditative Prayer be a nightly companion, deepening your bond with the Almighty and settling your spirit for a serene night's rest.Zach Clinton is from the American Association of Christian Counselors, for more information please visit: https://aacc.net/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism. In this episode, I'm joined by Jason Nelson, author of A Balm for Your Soul: Six Seeds for Happiness, for a calm and honest conversation about happiness, burnout, and what it really takes to live well.Jason shares his journey from corporate life in London to a slower, more intentional way of living, shaped by reflection, practice, and self-trust. Together, we explore his six seeds of happiness, self-care, self-mastery, boundaries, kindness, relationships, and connection, and how closely they align with Stoic philosophy. We talk about people pleasing, impostor syndrome, emotional awareness, and why being kind is not the same as being nice. This episode is a reminder that happiness is not a destination, but a daily practice rooted in honesty, courage, and care for yourself and others.A few reflections you can take from this episode:Pause before reacting and examine what you are feeling.Notice where boundaries are missing, especially in familiar relationships.Pay attention to which connections nourish you and which drain you.Reflect at the end of the day with reason and kindness, not judgment.Listen to the full episode and explore how Stoic wisdom and lived experience come together to support a happier, steadier life.You can read the related article on Via Stoica: https://viastoica.com/a-stoic-conversation-with-jason-nelson/You can follow Jason here: IG: @iamjasonnelsonAnd you can find the book here: Amazon: https://amzn.to/44Fh1XhSupport the showhttps://viastoica.comhttps://viastoica.com/stoic-life-coachinghttps://viastoica.com/benny-vonckenYouTube: @viastoicainfo@viastoica.comProduced by: badmic.com

Not everyone regulates themselves the same way.Some people measure their actions by character. Others measure by consequences. In this episode, we explore the difference between internal and external regulation, why Stoics tend to be internal regulators, and why that can quietly lead to rumination and burnout if left unchecked.We cover:Why not everyone thinks the way you doHow internal regulation drives growth—and sufferingWhen reflection stops being usefulA simple Stoic method to close the rumination loopBeing internally regulated is a strength—but only if you know when to move on.

You're tired. You're busy. It would be easier to stay home...It's the perfect excuse. Unless, of course, you are disciplined.Let's not write the year off just yet. The Daily Stoic New Year New You challenge is opening back up for a limited time. Learn more and sign up today at dailystoic.com/challenge.

In this compelling episode of the Meditative Prayers podcast, hosted by the insightful Dr. Tim Clinton and accessible on Pray.com, we delve into the profound theme of embracing honesty in our spiritual journey—an aspect that resonates deeply within our Christian community. Throughout our pursuit of spiritual growth, there are moments when being truthful and transparent becomes a paramount desire. These moments not only enhance our faith but also strengthen our relationships, propelling us toward our individual dreams. The comforting truth remains unwavering: with the Lord as our steadfast guide, we possess the innate ability to embrace honesty, discovering renewed hope and purpose in our journey. Drawing profound insights from sacred scriptures, we embark on an exploration of this transformative human experience. For those seeking guidance in cultivating honesty along their path of faith, we extend a sincere invitation to explore the Pray.com app. By simply downloading it today, you can embark on a transformative journey of faith and resilience, deeply rooted in the unwavering presence of the Divine. Together, let us wholeheartedly embrace the incredible potential for honesty within us, finding boundless inspiration and strength during our shared spiritual pilgrimage. We invite you to join us in this enlightening episode as we venture toward a profound understanding of embracing honesty in our spiritual journey and discovering the extraordinary sense of truth that resides within each one of us.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pain and hardship are part of life. From ancient Greece and Rome to now, people have faced plagues, wars, illness, and loss. The question has never been how to avoid it, but how to endure it and find meaning through it. In today's episode, Ryan shares practical Stoic methods that have been tested for centuries to help reduce anxiety, anger, and stress, build real resilience, and become stronger when life gets hard.

I am a public philosopher, it is my only job. I am enabled to do this job, in large part, thanks to support from my listeners and readers. You can support my work, keep it independent and online, at https://stoicismpod.com/members Looking for more Stoic content? Consider my 3x/week newsletter "Stoic Brekkie": https://stoicbrekkie.com The Iris Council: https://iriscouncil.com In this episode, I focus on the Stoic virtue of Justice and why it matters so urgently right now. Justice, in Stoicism, is not about legality or compliance with the law. It is about fairness. When we confuse what is legal with what is just, we risk excusing serious wrongdoing simply because it has been ratified by those in power. I explain why laws themselves can be unjust, especially when they are created or enforced by leaders who are not acting as protectors and benefactors of their people. If a law is out of alignment with what is fair, then the injustice lies with the law, not with those who recognize its unfairness. This is where Stoicism demands courage rather than passive acceptance. To ground this discussion, I turn to Musonius Rufus and his lecture On That Kings Too Should Practice Philosophy. Musonius argues that rulers must study philosophy because only philosophy teaches justice, self-control, courage, and rational judgment. A good king must be a good person, and a good person, by necessity, is a philosopher. Leadership without moral wisdom is not merely flawed; it is dangerous. I then broaden the lens to our responsibility as Stoics. Stoicism is not withdrawal or indifference. It is rational engagement with the world. The Cardinal Virtues work together: courage enables just action, temperance guides when to act, justice clarifies what is fair, and wisdom grounds us in our role as social beings. Leaders who divide humanity into “our kind” and “not our kind” fail this test of justice, regardless of what the law permits. Finally, I argue that our response to unjust leadership must itself be just. That requires self-examination. Before judging leaders, we must be capable of judging ourselves. A society that does not understand goodness cannot expect just leaders, and leaders drawn from such a society will reflect that confusion. What we need is not blind obedience or reckless outrage, but a serious moral recalibration rooted in Stoic philosophy. Listening on Spotify? Leave a comment! Share your thoughts. Podcast artwork by Original Randy: https://www.originalrandy.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this compelling episode of the Meditative Prayers podcast, led by the esteemed Dr. Tim Clinton and available on Pray.com, we delve into the profound theme of upholding integrity in our spiritual pursuits—a topic that deeply resonates within our Christian community. Throughout our spiritual journey, there are moments when maintaining our integrity and staying true to our values becomes a paramount aspiration. These moments not only enrich our faith but also fortify our relationships, propelling us toward our individual dreams. The reassuring truth remains constant: with the Lord as our unwavering guide, we possess the innate ability to uphold our integrity, discovering renewed hope and purpose in our journey. Drawing profound inspiration from sacred scriptures, we embark on an exploration of this transformative human experience. For those who seek guidance in preserving their spiritual integrity along their path of faith, we extend a heartfelt invitation to explore the Pray.com app. By simply downloading it today, you can embark on a transformative journey of faith and resilience, deeply rooted in the unwavering presence of the Divine. Together, let us wholeheartedly embrace the incredible potential for integrity within us, finding boundless inspiration and strength during our shared spiritual pilgrimage. We invite you to join us in this enlightening episode as we venture toward a profound understanding of upholding our spiritual integrity and discovering the extraordinary sense of purpose that resides within each one of us. Embracing the practice of praying before slumber is more than just a routine; it's an avenue to recenter your heart, aligning it with God's purpose. Let Pray.com’s Meditative Prayer be a nightly companion, deepening your bond with the Almighty and settling your spirit for a serene night's rest.Zach Clinton is from the American Association of Christian Counselors, for more information please visit: https://aacc.net/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You've seen Jaimie Alexander as the tough, unstoppable character on screen, but what was happening off camera tells a completely different story. In this episode, Ryan sits down with actress Jaimie for one of the most honest conversations she's ever shared publicly. She opens up about a near-death experience, years of hidden alcoholism, and the moment she realized the life she was pushing through wasn't sustainable anymore. Jaimie also talks about how Stoic philosophy became a grounding force in her recovery, how curiosity helped replace fear, and more. Jaimie Alexander is known for her role as Lady Sif in the Marvel Cinematic Universe films Thor (2011), Thor: The Dark World (2013), and Thor: Love and Thunder (2022), as well as the television series Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Kyle XY, and Blindspot.Follow Jaimie on Instagram @JaimieAlexander and subscribe to her Substack called "In The Hallway"

In this captivating episode of the Meditative Prayers podcast, hosted by the insightful Dr. Tim Clinton and accessible on Pray.com, we delve into the profound theme of cultivating diligence in our spiritual journey—an endeavor that deeply resonates within our Christian community. Along the path of faith, there are moments when fostering diligence and maintaining steadfast commitment becomes a paramount desire. These moments not only enrich our faith but also invigorate our relationships, propelling us toward our individual dreams. The reassuring truth remains constant: with the Lord as our unwavering guide, we have the innate ability to cultivate diligence, discovering renewed hope and purpose in our journey. Drawing deep inspiration from sacred scriptures, we embark on an exploration of this transformative human experience. For those who seek guidance in cultivating diligence along their path of faith, we extend a heartfelt invitation to explore the Pray.com app. By simply downloading it today, you can embark on a transformative journey of faith and resilience, deeply rooted in the unwavering presence of the Divine. Together, let us wholeheartedly embrace the incredible potential for diligence within us, finding boundless inspiration and strength during our shared spiritual pilgrimage. We invite you to join us in this enlightening episode as we venture toward a profound understanding of cultivating diligence in our spiritual journey and discovering the extraordinary sense of purpose that resides within each one of us. Embracing the practice of praying before slumber is more than just a routine; it's an avenue to recenter your heart, aligning it with God's purpose. Let Pray.com’s Meditative Prayer be a nightly companion, deepening your bond with the Almighty and settling your spirit for a serene night's rest.Zach Clinton is from the American Association of Christian Counselors, for more information please visit: https://aacc.net/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Part 3 of 3 of the Life of Julius Caesar. Did Caesar want to be a King? A god? What was his vision for Rome? Was there a way he could have prevented his assassination? In this episode:Caesar returns to Rome His TriumphsHis Reforms His Clemency His Final War in Spain; the Batle of MundaThe Octavius QuestionThe Plots, Dreams, Portents, The men he trusted; the men who betrayed him 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.And check out Warlords of History podcast here!

January is January. A slump is a slump. They're not fun, but neither are they the whole world…or forever.

In this captivating episode of the Meditative Prayers podcast, hosted by the insightful Dr. Tim Clinton and accessible on Pray.com, we delve into the profound theme of cultivating a spirit of service—an endeavor that deeply resonates within our Christian community. Throughout our spiritual journey, there are moments when engaging in acts of service and contributing to the well-being of others becomes a paramount desire. These moments not only enrich our faith but also strengthen our relationships, propelling us toward our individual dreams of making a positive impact. The reassuring truth remains constant: with the Lord as our steadfast guide, we have the innate ability to realize these aspirations, discovering renewed hope and purpose in our journey. Drawing deep inspiration from sacred scriptures, we embark on an exploration of this transformative human experience. For those who seek guidance in serving others and nurturing their spiritual aspirations along their path of faith, we extend a heartfelt invitation to explore the Pray.com app. By simply downloading it today, you can embark on a transformative journey of faith and resilience, deeply rooted in the unwavering presence of the Divine. Together, let us wholeheartedly embrace the incredible potential for service within us, finding boundless inspiration and strength during our shared spiritual pilgrimage. We invite you to join us in this enlightening episode as we venture toward a profound understanding of serving others and discovering the extraordinary sense of fulfillment that resides within each one of us. Embracing the practice of praying before slumber is more than just a routine; it's an avenue to recenter your heart, aligning it with God's purpose. Let Pray.com’s Meditative Prayer be a nightly companion, deepening your bond with the Almighty and settling your spirit for a serene night's rest.Zach Clinton is from the American Association of Christian Counselors, for more information please visit: https://aacc.net/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's important to remember that Stoicism isn't about judging other people. It's not a moral philosophy you're supposed to project and enforce onto the world. No, it's a personal philosophy that's designed to direct your behavior.

Be wary whom you go to work for. Moral compromises add up and eventually destroy you.

David Mamet is one of the most influential writers of the last half-century, so when he talks about craft, discipline, and courage, it's worth listening. In this episode, David joins Ryan to talk about acting, writing, Stoicism, and why most people make things far more complicated than they need to be. David breaks down his blunt philosophy on performance and life, why courage matters more than talent, why “just saying the words” is often the hardest part, and the Stoic question he literally engraved on his watch. David Mamet won a Pulitzer Prize for Glengarry Glen Ross and first broke through in the 1970s with plays like American Buffalo and Sexual Perversity in Chicago. He's also written and directed films including House of Games, The Spanish Prisoner, and Heist, and wrote the screenplays for The Verdict and The Untouchables. Most recently, David released the film Henry Johnson and published the novel Some Recollections of St. Ives: A Novel.

We can train. We can prepare. This will not be enough. Because more will be expected of us still, more will be piled onto our plates.

Today is Martin Luther King Jr. Day here in America. It's worth taking a minute today to consider one particularly brilliant and inspiring part of King's approach to civil rights.

Ever feel stuck trying to figure out what you want when something deeper is stirring inside you? I spent the last week going through a personal transformation that reminded me of something most coaches get backwards. Awareness isn't the result of getting clear. It's what comes first. Before you can have clarity, confidence, or any breakthrough you're chasing, you have to become painfully aware of what's already shaping your life. Until you accept what you discover, you can't move forward. This episode walks you through why awareness beats everything else and what happens when you stop resisting it. Featured Story Saturday night at 8 p.m., I found myself trapped. Not physically, but mentally locked. I was trying to figure out why I felt blocked, why I wasn't happy showing up the way I wanted to. Every time I tried to move forward, something held me back. But when I thought about changing directions, I had freedom. So I gave in and followed the feeling for eight days. You heard some of it through the podcast. Then Friday morning at 10:45, I ended up somewhere I never planned to go. Within two minutes, I had three conversations that blew my mind. That's when everything clicked. Important Points Awareness precedes clarity, confidence, and every single breakthrough you think you need to make real progress in life. Until you accept what you discover about yourself, you can't move forward no matter what you try to change or fix. Freedom and options require a peaceful base first: money in the bank, good relationships, fitness, and health. Memorable Quotes "Until you become aware, you ain't got nothing. Awareness precedes everything that matters in your entire life." "You never get the freedom and options you want until you build a peaceful base underneath you and get it solid." "Nobody likes going through transformation until you get done with it and finally see what's on the other side." Scott's Three-Step Approach Pay constant attention to your thoughts, judgments, and actions like you're shining a flashlight inside yourself. Observe what opinions you're forming about events and whether they come from reality or just your own anxious mind. Accept what you discover about yourself because resisting it is the only thing that keeps you trapped and stuck. Chapters 0:04 - Why the theme song came back after goodbye 2:18 - Eight days of being trapped and breaking free 4:31 - What awareness isn't (and why coaches lie) 6:20 - Stoic awareness and cultivating inner freedom 8:47 - The painful magic of transformation moments Connect With Me Search for the Daily Boost on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify Email: support@motivationtomove.com Main Website: https://motivationtomove.com YouTube: https://youtube.com/dailyboostpodcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/heyscottsmith Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/motivationtomove Facebook Group: https://dailyboostpodcast.com/facebook Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, you'll hear about 7 traits that the Stoics actually lived by, and why they shaped leaders we're still learning from 2,000 years later.

From writing with David Goggins to working alongside Rich Roll, Adam Skolnick's success didn't make imposter syndrome disappear. In this episode, Adam opens up to Ryan about his path as a writer, the years of underreported stories and side gigs, how self-doubt still shows up, and the unbelievable true story that inspired his new novel American Tiger. Adam Skolnick has written about travel, adventure sports, human rights and the environment for outlets like The New York Times, Outside, Lonely Planet, ESPN, BBC, and Men's Health. He is best known as the ghostwriter and audiobook narrator for David Goggins memoirs Can't Hurt Me and Never Finished. He is also the author of One Breath - Freediving, Death and the Quest to Shatter Human Limits and now his debut novel, American Tiger, is officially out. Check out Adam's new novel American Tiger and follow him on Instagram @AdamSkolnick

Now is for certain. Later is a lie. It's only going to get harder the longer you wait.