Podcasts about Stoic

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

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 In this episode, I respond to a listener question prompted by the loss of a long-lived orchid. The plant did not die from neglect, but from care that was given in ignorance. What was meant to nurture it slowly caused harm. From that story comes a serious Stoic question: when does patience become self-abandonment? When does non-reactivity turn into tolerating conditions that prevent growth? I address a common misunderstanding of Stoicism that treats emotional detachment as a virtue in itself. Stoicism does not teach that we should endure all conditions indefinitely, nor that thriving means being comfortable, happy, or externally successful. To thrive, in the Stoic sense, is to pursue moral excellence. Health, wealth, and calm are not the measure. Character is. I make a distinction between the Stoic sage and the rest of us. A sage could flourish in any environment, but most of us are not sages. Environments shape the range of choices available to us. While our surroundings cannot force us to act viciously, they can limit what just and reasonable options are open to us. Poor environments narrow choice. Better environments expand it. From that, I argue that changing your environment can be a Stoic obligation, not a failure of resilience. If a situation consistently restricts your ability to live out your roles well, whether as a parent, partner, or moral agent, then leaving or changing that environment may be the just choice, provided it is done without abandoning responsibilities or harming others. Stoic endurance is not passive tolerance of harm. It is rational engagement with reality, including the reality that sometimes the right move is to change the soil, not blame the plant. Listening on Spotify? Leave a comment! Share your thoughts. 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.

On today's episode, we continue with part two of Dr. Mark Costes' compelling first presentation at the Music City SCALE 2025 event. In this segment, Dr. Costes delivers a deep dive into key challenges facing today's dental practice owners—employee retention, the nationwide hygiene shortage, and the harsh reality of PPOs. He shares actionable strategies to improve team culture, build loyalty through better leadership, and transform non-producers into practice contributors.   Drawing on Stoic philosophy, he urges owners to focus only on what they can control—systems, leadership, and culture—while tuning out the noise. You'll also hear powerful data on the current state of dentistry, including what's driving turnover, why hygienist supply is critically low, and how to make smarter, data-driven decisions about insurance plans. With rising student debt, longer careers, and stagnating practice profits, Dr. Costes makes a strong case for why mastering business fundamentals is no longer optional—it's essential. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on Stoicism.Where we take a moment to slow down and reflect on what the Stoics can teach us about living with reason and restraint. In this episode, we turn to Seneca and a striking passage from On Anger, Book 3, section 3: “So tell me, will someone call a man sane who, as if caught up in a tempest, does not walk, but is driven along and takes as his master a furious demon?”Seneca uses vivid language to show what anger does to the mind. When anger takes over, we are no longer choosing our actions; we are being carried by them. The Stoic principle at work here is self-command. Anger is not strength, but a loss of inner direction, a momentary madness that blocks reason and leads us away from acting well.This idea connects closely with Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius, who both warn against being ruled by impressions instead of examining them. Through the disciplines of Desire, Assent, and Action, Stoicism teaches us to loosen our attachment to emotional impulses, question the judgments that ignite anger, and respond deliberately rather than react blindly. In everyday life, this means learning to pause when irritation arises, recognizing when emotion is taking the lead, and choosing restraint over release, especially in moments of pressure or conflict.For more, check out this related article with quotes on Stoicism and anger:https://viastoica.com/10-seneca-quotes-on-anger/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

People probably thought Marcus Aurelius was strange. The time he spent alone in his room. The long walks he took by himself. There would be no Meditations without this quiet solitude, but more alarming, there would have been no Marcus Aurelius, either.

What's the difference between self-awareness and self-consciousness? In today's bonus episode, Ryan shares an excerpt from his conversation with high-performance expert Steve Magness on how to spot the difference.

This is stand alone content by Chris. Something I am doing on youtube, and decided to put them together here for you as well. Instead of  daily drops like I do there. I am putting it here in quarters. This episode series breaks down the first four principles of Miyamoto Musashi's Dokkōdō and translates them into practical guidance for modern men seeking self mastery, emotional regulation, and leadership in their homes and relationships. Through a grounded and direct lens, these principles explore detachment from unhealthy desire, acceptance of reality, freedom from dependence on pleasure or comfort, and humility in perception. This breakdown connects ancient Stoic and Zen philosophy with modern psychology, Adlerian responsibility, and personal accountability, helping listeners understand how internal discipline shapes external outcomes. If you are searching for content on Musashi, the Dokkōdō, masculine growth, self control, or emotional resilience, this episode offers a clear and applicable framework. The first four principles of the Dokkōdō are presented not as abstract philosophy, but as lived standards that expose ego, victim thinking, and reactive behavior. This podcast episode examines how attachment fuels suffering, how resistance to reality creates chaos, and how unchecked desire weakens leadership in marriage, fatherhood, and purpose. By tying Musashi's teachings to journaling, self reflection, and daily decision making, this breakdown challenges men to own their interpretations and take responsibility for their results. Ideal for listeners interested in personal growth, men's work, discipline, and timeless wisdom applied to modern life, this episode serves as both a mirror and a call to action.Disclaimer: We are not professionals. This podcast is opinioned based and from life experience. This is for entertainment purposes only. Opinions helped by our guests may not reflect our own. But we love a good conversation.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/2-be-better--5828421/support.

Our feet will always move in the direction of our focus. So look where you want to go. Stay focused on the path, keep moving forward, one foot in front of the other.

Most productivity advice promises that if you just find the right system, you'll finally catch up. In today's episode, Ryan sits down with Oliver Burkeman who explains why that feeling never arrives and why that is not a personal failure. They discuss the productivity lie that keeps so many people feeling behind every single day, how hustle culture quietly creates anxiety, and why the goal of getting “on top of everything” is impossible. Oliver explains why urgency often makes life worse, not better, how saying no is harder than it should be, and what actually changes when you stop trying to win time and start accepting your limits.Oliver Burkeman is the author of the New York Times bestseller Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals, The Antidote: Happiness for People Who Can't Stand Positive Thinking, and Meditations for Mortals. Follow Oliver on Instagram and X @OliverBurkemanGrab signed copies of Meditations for Mortals and Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman at The Painted Porch: https://www.thepaintedporch.com/

In today's episode I'm talking about a key path to happiness that comes from the great Stoic philosopher, Epictetus, who reminds us about the importance of focusing on what's in our control. I hope you enjoy it! As always you can learn more and connect with me on my website (andystorch.com) or LinkedIn. And you can find my books - Own Your Career Own Your Life and Own Your Brand, Own Your Career - on Amazon.

This episode explores the Stoic art of decatastrophizing—learning to meet fear by stripping events down to what they really are, rather than what our imagination makes of them.From Socrates calmly facing death to Seneca's reminder that we suffer more in imagination than in reality, we see how clarity dissolves panic.The practice isn't denial or blind optimism, but disciplined attention to the present moment. With repetition, the Stoics show, fear loses its grip and the mind regains its power.

In today's episode I'm talking about a key path to happiness that comes from the great Stoic philosopher, Epictetus, who reminds us about the importance of focusing on what's in our control. I hope you enjoy it! As always you can learn more and connect with me on my website (andystorch.com) or LinkedIn. And you can find my books - Own Your Career Own Your Life and Own Your Brand, Own Your Career - on Amazon.

Focus on what you can control. Keep your cool. Do the right thing. Be brave. Because if you're not going to do it now, when will you?

Leave an Amazon Rating or Review for my New York Times Bestselling book, Make Money Easy!Check out the full episode: https://greatness.lnk.to/1171Ryan Holiday shares transformative Stoic ideas that individuals can incorporate into their daily lives. Stoicism, an ancient philosophy, offers practical wisdom for achieving personal growth, resilience, and inner peace.Sign up for the Greatness newsletter: http://www.greatness.com/newsletterFor more Greatness text PODCAST to +1 (614) 350-3960 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Send us a textWhat happens when a retired Marine takes the discipline of the military and applies it to faith, fitness, and community? In this episode of The Days Grimm, Paul Linberg returns for round two to share the incredible growth of his mission and the impact it is having on men across the country. After retiring from the Marine Corps, Paul realized the civilian world often lacked the "tribe" mentality essential for growth, leading him to co-found Ruck and Rosary, a program designed to challenge the mind, body, and soul.Paul breaks down the origin of Ruck and Rosary, which combines a five-mile weighted ruck with the five decades of the rosary. This isn't just a workout; it is a structured environment where men discuss the pillars of being a better man, a better husband, and a better father. Paul explains how these "universal truths" are shared through both biblical scripture and the wisdom of Stoic philosophers like Marcus Aurelius, proving that the pursuit of discipline is a timeless human endeavor.A significant portion of this conversation focuses on the power of community in personal transformation. Host Brian  Day shares his own journey of returning to the Catholic church at St. Benedict Cathedral after 25 years, a move directly inspired by the support and brotherhood he found within Paul's rucking group. This episode highlights how a simple invitation to "ruck" can lead to profound spiritual and personal changes.This conversation goes deeper than fitness. Paul opens up about combat experiences, traumatic brain injuries, and the long-term mental health challenges faced by veterans. The group discusses why talking openly, doing hard things together, and building consistent routines can be life-saving, especially for men who struggle to slow down or ask for help.The episode also takes a deep dive into Paul's military history, specifically the events of December 15, 2006, in Ramadi. Paul recounts the harrowing details of a VBIED attack involving a cement truck filled with explosives and the complex ambush that followed. His "Alive Day" story serves as a powerful reminder of the perspective gained through service and the resilience required to keep moving forward when the "RPMs" of life feel overwhelming.Finally, Paul discusses his newest project, The Watch and the War podcast, and how he manages a life filled with family, ministry, and security training. Why podcasting can be therapeutic, and how connecting the right people at the right time can change lives. From stoicism and faith to addiction, discipline, and family priorities, this is an honest, grounded conversation about building a life with purpose after service.Whether you are a veteran seeking a new tribe or someone looking to balance high-intensity life with spiritual peace, Paul's insights on routine and "standing in the breach" offer a compelling roadmap for the modern man.This episode offers real-world insight.no fluff, no shortcuts.KEY TOPICS COVERED:* The origin and mission of the Ruck and Rosary program* Building a resilient tribe after the Marine Corps* Mind, Body, and Soul: The structure of a 5-mile spiritual ruck* Comparing Stoicism and the Gospe[The Days Grimm Podcast Links]- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheDaysGrimm- Our link tree: linktr.ee/Thedaysgrimm- GoFundMe account for The Days Grimm: https://gofund.me/02527e7c [The Days Grimm is brought to you by]Sadness & ADHD (non-medicated)

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.In this episode, we explore why the idea of the Stoic lone wolf is a myth. While modern culture often praises isolation and radical self reliance as strength, the Stoics understood human beings as deeply social by nature. Solitude can restore us, but cutting ourselves off from others slowly erodes purpose and direction.Marcus Aurelius captures this clearly when he writes:“Have you ever seen a severed hand or foot, or a decapitated head, lying somewhere apart from the rest of the body? That is what a person makes of himself when he refuses to accept what happens and cuts himself off from others.”Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 8.34He is not condemning solitude, but reminding us that we flourish only when we see ourselves as part of a larger whole.This episode reflects on the difference between chosen solitude and harmful isolation, the Stoic importance of roles and duties, and why real strength lies in connection, responsibility, and contribution. Stoicism invites us not to withdraw from life, but to take our place in it with reason, kindness, and steadiness.Listen to the full episode now and discover how connection and responsibility can transform the way you think, act, and see your life.Read the related article: https://viastoica.com/why-the-stoic-lone-wolf-doesnt-exist/Support the show

In this episode, Brandon sits down with an educator and school principal, Kyle Sarka, to explore Stoic resilience—not as brute toughness, but as endurance guided by wisdom.The conversation moves fluidly between Stoic philosophy, leadership, fitness, history, and modern life, examining what it really means to persevere when outcomes are uncertain and comfort is abundant.Rather than glorifying suffering for its own sake, this episode argues that resilience is about knowing when to endure, when to adapt, and when to step back—and having the courage to act either way.

You went to school. You worked hard. You sacrificed. You got really good at what you do. And yet…despite this success, this track record, this leverage you have, your life is so backwards.

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3875: Maneesh Sethi explores how eliminating modern distractions and radically shifting his environment unlocked levels of focus he didn't know he had. By living in a cave without technology, he discovered that productivity, clarity, and purpose aren't about willpower, they're about creating the right context. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://www.theminimalists.com/maneesh/ Quotes to ponder: "Minimalism, at its root, is more than just throwing away everything that you own. It's about learning to thrive, not survive, but thrive, regardless of your circumstances." "Success isn't about being 'on' all the time, it's about focusing for intense bursts of time, and then disengaging." "You have to create a self-reinforcing context that makes it impossible to fail." Episode references: Eben Pagan - The Snacking Society (via GetAltitude archive): https://ebenpagantraining.com Seneca - Letters from a Stoic: https://www.amazon.com/Letters-Stoic-Penguin-Classics/dp/0140442103 Hack The System: https://www.hackthesystem.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us a textStart your day with the most powerful Stoic distinction: what is up to you, and what is not.In this 6-minute guided morning practice, you'll gently identify a current worry, feel where it lives in your body, and release everything outside your control. Through clear teaching, visualization, and a simple daily intention, you'll cultivate calm agency and resilience—no matter what the day brings.Perfect for anyone who wakes up with racing thoughts, anxiety about outcomes, or a desire to respond rather than react. Epictetus' timeless wisdom, delivered in a modern, practical way.Return daily to strengthen the habit.

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3875: Maneesh Sethi explores how eliminating modern distractions and radically shifting his environment unlocked levels of focus he didn't know he had. By living in a cave without technology, he discovered that productivity, clarity, and purpose aren't about willpower, they're about creating the right context. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://www.theminimalists.com/maneesh/ Quotes to ponder: "Minimalism, at its root, is more than just throwing away everything that you own. It's about learning to thrive, not survive, but thrive, regardless of your circumstances." "Success isn't about being 'on' all the time, it's about focusing for intense bursts of time, and then disengaging." "You have to create a self-reinforcing context that makes it impossible to fail." Episode references: Eben Pagan - The Snacking Society (via GetAltitude archive): https://ebenpagantraining.com Seneca - Letters from a Stoic: https://www.amazon.com/Letters-Stoic-Penguin-Classics/dp/0140442103 Hack The System: https://www.hackthesystem.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hot takes alert! Does the study of Kabbalah, Tarot, and other esoteric traditions have a place in modern Freemasonry, or is it, as our guest argues, a "big stupid distraction from one's actual Masonic work"? We sit down with WB Bull Garlington, author of the provocative white paper "Messoterica." Listen as Bro. Bull makes the brutal case that the modern obsession with esoterica is nothing more than “a waste of time.”Show notes and links: Join us on Patreon. Start your FREE seven day trial to the Craftsmen Online Podcast and get instant access to our bonus content! Whether it's a one time donation or you become a Patreon Subscriber, we appreciate your support.Visit the Craftsmen Online website to learn more about our next Reading Room event, New York Masonic History, and our Masonic Education blog!Follow the Craftsmen Online Podcast on Spotify.Subscribe to the Craftsmen Online Podcast on Apple Podcasts.Follow Craftsmen Online on YouTube, hit subscribe and get notified the next time we go LIVE with a podcast recording!Yes, we're on Instagram.Get our latest announcements and important updates in your inbox with the Craftsmen Online Newsletter.Email the host, RW Michael Arce! Yes, we will read your email and may even reach out to be a guest on a future episode.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/craftsmen-online-podcast--4822031/support.Follow the Craftsmen Online Podcast on Spotify.Subscribe to the Craftsmen Online Podcast on Apple Podcasts.Follow Craftsmen Online on YouTube, hit subscribe and get notified the next time we go LIVE with a podcast recording!Yes, we're on Instagram.

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3875: Maneesh Sethi explores how eliminating modern distractions and radically shifting his environment unlocked levels of focus he didn't know he had. By living in a cave without technology, he discovered that productivity, clarity, and purpose aren't about willpower, they're about creating the right context. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://www.theminimalists.com/maneesh/ Quotes to ponder: "Minimalism, at its root, is more than just throwing away everything that you own. It's about learning to thrive, not survive, but thrive, regardless of your circumstances." "Success isn't about being 'on' all the time, it's about focusing for intense bursts of time, and then disengaging." "You have to create a self-reinforcing context that makes it impossible to fail." Episode references: Eben Pagan - The Snacking Society (via GetAltitude archive): https://ebenpagantraining.com Seneca - Letters from a Stoic: https://www.amazon.com/Letters-Stoic-Penguin-Classics/dp/0140442103 Hack The System: https://www.hackthesystem.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The year ahead is unknown, but one thing you can control is how you show up. In this episode, Ryan breaks down 26 timeless Stoic rules you can rely on when things feel overwhelming, chaotic, or out of your control.

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 In this episode, I revisit Seneca, a Stoic who often gets dismissed because of his wealth and his close relationship with Nero. I argue that these compromises do not disqualify him as a Stoic, and that he may, in fact, have been one of the most Stoic Roman thinkers precisely because he was aware of his flaws and struggled against them. I introduce and reflect on Seneca's letter On Crowds, focusing on his warning that being around the wrong people can quietly undo our moral progress. Seneca admits that he often returns home worse than when he left, more indulgent, more ambitious, and more cruel, simply because he has been among others. I connect this to modern experiences of habit, addiction, and relapse, especially how difficult it is to maintain self-control when surrounded by people who excuse or celebrate the very behaviors we are trying to leave behind. I discuss how habits are formed through repetition, how crowds can weaken our resolve by offering permission and comfort, and why leaving unhealthy environments often comes at the cost of strained relationships. I also emphasize that anyone who has successfully changed a destructive habit deserves real admiration, because reversing habituated behavior requires extraordinary effort. Finally, I qualify Seneca's position. While crowds driven by vice and groupthink are dangerous, not all crowds are. What we should avoid are antisocial and unjust groups, not communities of people sincerely trying to improve. The goal is to surround ourselves with those who want our moral progress and to be that person for others who are earlier on the path. Listening on Spotify? Leave a comment! Share your thoughts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most people think manipulation only works on other people. That belief is exactly what makes it dangerous. In this episode, Ryan sits down with historian and human behavior expert Rebecca Lemov to talk about what actually happens when people are pushed, pressured, or slowly pulled into systems of control. From prison camps and cults to propaganda and social pressure, they discuss how people break in ways that still feel rational, why belonging can override reason, and why almost everyone believes they are immune right up until they are not.Rebecca Lemov is a historian of science at Harvard University. Her research explores data, technology, and the history of human and behavioral sciences.

Marcus Aurelius wrote about how the philosopher is one with their weapon—like a boxer, more than a swordsman. A boxer just clenches their fist. A fencer has to pick something up. Through repetition, through absorption, we're trying to fuse ourselves with our philosophy.

You probably wish you didn't have to. Of course, you didn't want it to happen. It would be nicer if things went as planned. As we've said before, this is what we trained for!

For many people, religion is a source of comfort — but what happens when it becomes a source of fear, shame, or lifelong anxiety? In this episode, author Cassandra Brandt shares her deeply personal journey through religious indoctrination, purity culture, and the hidden mental health consequences that followed her into adulthood.Cassandra unpacks the emotional toll of being raised in an evangelical Christian environment: fearing the end times as a child, internalizing guilt as a spiritual obligation, and believing mental illness was a sign of demonic influence. She explains how these messages shaped her anxiety, self-worth, relationships, and even her sense of identity.Listener takeaways The mental health impact of purity culture on girls and women why religious trauma is often dismissed — and why that's dangerous how religious indoctrination can create lifelong anxiety, guilt, and shame Through honesty and courage, Cassandra highlights the often ignored reality of religious trauma — what it looks like, why it's misunderstood, and why so many people struggle to talk about it without being dismissed as “anti-religion.” She also shares how therapy, education, and new philosophies helped her rebuild her life, develop healthier relationships, and raise her daughter without fear-based teachings.Whether you've experienced religious trauma or want to understand someone who has, this candid conversation sheds light on an uncomfortable but essential mental health topic.“Millions of people find peace in religion. I'm not trying to throw the baby out with the bathwater. But fundamentalist evangelical theology can truly and genuinely hurt people emotionally and intellectually when it's done in this fire and brimstone sort of way, especially toward children. You can tell a child a thousand sweet stories about Jesus, but the one that's going to stick out in their head is the one that you tell them about the hell that they're going to if they don't believe. Some children won't experience sleepless nights and terror about eternal damnation. Some adults won't experience trauma later. But others will.” ~Cassandra Brandt, religious trauma survivor Our guest, Cassandra Brandt is an author, advocate, and aspiring Stoic based in rural Arizona. A steelworker prior to a spinal cord injury in 2015, Cassandra now writes full time, blogging for disability publications and writing for literary magazines. Her multiple books are available on Amazon. Cassandra speaks against ableism and for equity, and believes in the rights of animals and our obligation to the Earth. She writes about deconstruction from religion, utilizing philosophy and what it means to be human. Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe is also the host of the "Inside Bipolar" podcast with Dr. Nicole Washington. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can't imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com. Please like, follow, subscribe, and share! Spread the word about this great free resource. Thank you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After recording in-studio, Mel Robbins and Ryan Holiday headed to the Bastrop Opera House for a live conversation and audience Q&A. They discuss the biggest misconceptions about the Let Them Theory, why Stoicism isn't about suppressing feelings, and how self-control is really about creating space between what you feel and how you respond. Mel also opens up about how learning to pause changed her relationships, her parenting, and her sense of peace after years of living on edge.Mel Robbins is the creator and host of the award-winning The Mel Robbins Podcast, one of the most successful podcasts in the world, and a #1 New York Times bestselling author. The Let Them Theory was the top selling book of 2025 according to Publisher's Weekly, with +7 million copies sold within nine months of its release date. It is on pace to have the best non-fiction book launch of all time. She is also the author of the multimillion-copy-selling The 5 Second Rule, The High 5 Habit, and seven #1 audiobook releases on Audible.

As Marcus would say, we can't be satisfied with just “getting the gist” of things we read. Read deeply. Read repeatedly.

What if reality doesn't fully exist unless you're paying attention to it? In this episode of The Box of Oddities, Kat and Jethro tumble headfirst into some of the strangest intersections of consciousness, physics, philosophy, and fatal laughter. We explore the unsettling ideas of nuclear physicist Thomas Campbell, whose “My Big TOE (Theory of Everything)” proposes that reality itself may function more like a simulation—rendered only when observed, driven not by matter, but by consciousness itself. Is the universe a data stream? Are we avatars logged into a system designed to test our choices? And if so… who's running the server? From the science-backed work at the Monroe Institute to concepts like entropy, intent, and consciousness as the fundamental building block of existence, this episode breaks down Campbell's mind-bending claims in clear, conversational terms—without robes, chanting, or cosmic fluff. Then, just when things couldn't get stranger, we pivot to a surprisingly lethal topic: can laughter actually kill you? From ancient Stoic philosopher Chrysippus allegedly laughing himself to death over a fig-eating donkey, to documented modern cases involving heart conditions triggered by uncontrollable laughter, we trace the real medical risks behind “dying laughing.” Along the way, we examine historical reports, modern diagnoses like Long QT syndrome, and why comedy may be safer in moderation (or at least while seated). Plus, we serve up a classic Thing in the Middle featuring some of the world's most delightfully pointless “capitals,” including hubcaps, snowshoe baseball, lost luggage, jump rope, and barbed wire. It's an episode that asks big questions, delivers strange truths, and reminds us that no matter how serious philosophy gets, sometimes a donkey can still take you out. If you enjoy thought-provoking mysteries, odd history, consciousness theories, dark humor, and the weird edges of science—this one's for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join me for part 10, the final chapters, of a reading and discussion of Meditations, one of the most influential works of Stoic philosophy, by Marcus Aurelius – Roman Emperor and philosopher. In this series we'll explore the core tenants of Stoicism, examining its emphasis on virtue, reason, and acceptance. Exclusive Content and Ways to Support: Support me on Substack for ad-free content, bonus material, personal chatting and more! ⁠https://substack.com/@monicaperezshow⁠ Become a PREMIUM SUBSCRIBER on Apple Podcasts for AD FREE episodes and exclusive content! True Hemp Science: ⁠https://truehempscience.com/⁠ PROMO CODE: MONICA Find, Follow, Subscribe & Rate on your favorite podcasting platform AND for video and social & more... Website: ⁠https://monicaperezshow.com/⁠ Substack: ⁠https://substack.com/@monicaperezshow⁠ Rumble: ⁠https://rumble.com/user/monicaperezshow⁠ Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/MonicaPerez⁠ Twitter/X: @monicaperezshow Instagram: @monicaperezshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

They knew that life was tough. They knew that a fragile person would not survive. But does that mean the Stoics were unfeeling? Utterly disconnected? Harsh and invulnerable?

Seneca believed wisdom comes from focusing on one small idea each day, something simple you can sit with and let make you better.

Again and again, the Stoics pored over the same texts. So the ideas could take firm hold. So they could be absorbed. So it could become muscle memory, infused into their DNA.

This podcast is supported entirely by you, the listener. Without your patronage, none of this is possible. Become a patron of my work for as little as $0.50/week here: https://stoicismpod.com/members -- In this episode I reset Practical Stoicism back to its foundations and begin a new chapter for the show by returning to the classical texts themselves. I explain why this version of the podcast will move deliberately across the Stoic corpus rather than reading a single work straight through, drawing from Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, Epictetus, Musonius Rufus, and, where possible, the early Greek Stoics like Zeno of Citium, Chrysippus, and Cleanthes. From there, I focus on Meditations 2.1, one of the most concise and powerful passages in Meditations, using George Long's translation. I explain why Marcus is so often misunderstood, why he should be read as a deeply committed practitioner rather than a philosophical instructor, and why Meditations was never meant to teach Stoicism to anyone but Marcus himself. We then unpack what Marcus is really doing in this meditation: preparing himself to meet difficult people, refusing to moralize or dehumanize them, and grounding his response in the Stoic claim that ignorance of good and evil (virtue and vice) is the root of wrongdoing. I explain why, in Stoicism, there is only one good and one evil, how this reframes resentment and anger, and why Marcus sees hostility toward others as fundamentally anti-social and contrary to Nature. The episode closes by showing how Stoicism combines sympathy, personal responsibility, and moral resolve, and why caring for others is not optional if one is genuinely pursuing virtue. This is not a philosophy of withdrawal or toughness for its own sake, but a demanding ethical system aimed at producing better human beings. Key takeaways from this episode include: Why Meditations is a private practice document, not a Stoic instruction manual, and how misunderstanding this leads to shallow readings How Meditations 2.1 reveals the Stoic view that vice is ignorance, not malice, and why this matters for how we treat others Why Stoicism is fundamentally pro-social, and why turning away from others undermines the pursuit of virtue itself If you'd like to provide feedback on this episode, or have question, you may do so as a member. Email sent by non-members will not be answered (though they may be read). This isn't punitive, I just cannot keep up. Limiting access to members reduces my workload. You're always invited to leave a comment on Spotify, member or not. Thanks for listening and have a great day! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After recording the podcast, Ryan and Mel Robbins walked next door to The Painted Porch to talk books. Head to Ryan Holiday's YouTube Channel to watch the video of him giving Mel Robbins book recommendations at The Painted Porch: https://www.youtube.com/@RyanHolidayOfficial

Would the Stoics agree with Mel Robbins' Let Them Theory? In today's episode, Mel Robbins sits down with Ryan to look at The Let Them Theory through a Stoic lens. They discuss what Marcus Aurelius would really say about letting go, where acceptance becomes strength, and why so much of our stress comes from fighting things that were never in our control to begin with. Ryan and Mel talk about jealousy and comparison, why letting go does not mean giving up, and learning how to protect your energy. Mel Robbins is the creator and host of the award-winning The Mel Robbins Podcast, one of the most successful podcasts in the world, and a #1 New York Times bestselling author. The Let Them Theory was the top selling book of 2025 according to Publisher's Weekly, with +7 million copies sold within nine months of its release date. It is on pace to have the best non-fiction book launch of all time. She is also the author of the multimillion-copy-selling The 5 Second Rule, The High 5 Habit, and seven #1 audiobook releases on Audible.Tune into The Mel Robbins Podcast on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify Follow Mel Robbins on Instagram and TikTokPick up a signed copy of The High 5 Habit by Mel Robbins at The Painted Porch: https://www.thepaintedporch.com/Grab a copies of Mel Robbins' other books: The Let Them Theory and The 5 Second Rule It's not too late to join The Daily Stoic New Year New You challenge! Learn more and sign up today at dailystoic.com/challenge.

Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, Food for Thought podcast remains listener-supported. To support this work and receive perks and exclusive engagement, please consider becoming paid subscriber (but don't go anywhere if you're a free subscriber)!Welcome to 2026—and to the 20th anniversary year of Food for Thought! I'm kicking off the new year with an episode about stretching our comfort zones through small, intentional practices that help us live with more clarity, resilience, and purpose.In this episode, I explore:* Why the idea of “doing hard things” isn't new at all—and how it's rooted in Stoic philosophy* What thinkers like Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius actually meant by hardship (hint: it wasn't suffering for suffering's sake)* How we can manifest this ancient practice in our modern lives* Why trends like cold plunges miss the point if we focus only on promised (and alleged) health benefits* How Dry January fits perfectly into this framework—not as a detox or moral stance, but as an experiment in awareness, habit, and choiceI also reflect on looking back at 2025—what I learned, what I practiced, what I shared with you—and why I still believe that setting intentions (whether for 24 hours or 365 days) is a powerful way to orient our lives.If you're feeling curious about:* Doing something different this year* Letting go of what's familiar just long enough to learn from it* Or giving yourself a gentle nudge instead of a total overhaul…this episode is for you.

What about if, instead of fighting against the current, we fought instead “to be the person that philosophy tried to make us?”Make 2026 the year where you finally bring yourself closer to living your best life. No more waiting. Demand the best for yourself. Sign up for The Daily Stoic New Year New You challenge at dailystoic.com/challenge.

2025 is dead and gone. Who we were in 2025 is dead and gone. Here we are, lucky enough to rise again in 2026. A year not guaranteed to anyone. No more waiting. Demand the best for yourself. The Daily Stoic New Year New You challenge begins January 1, 2026. Learn more and sign up today at dailystoic.com/challenge.