Podcasts about Stoicism

What if the biggest thing holding your business back isn't the economy, your competitors, or rising costs—but your own mindset? In this solo episode of 365 Driven, host Tony Whatley challenges business owners and entrepreneurs to rethink how they view problems, success, and personal growth. Drawing from his own journey of growing up in a lower-middle-class family, working construction to pay his way through engineering school, and eventually building and selling multi-million-dollar businesses, Tony shares the mindset shifts that helped him escape scarcity thinking and create lasting success. Throughout the episode, Tony explains why so many people stay trapped in a "poor mindset" by giving too much emotional energy to small problems while ignoring the bigger opportunities that can transform their lives. Using practical examples—from arguing over gas prices to stressing about restaurant menus—he illustrates how successful entrepreneurs learn to assign value to their problems, focus on what they can control, and continually "graduate" to solving larger, higher-value challenges. You'll also discover why increasing your income is less about working harder and more about developing the skills to solve bigger problems, why companies pay more for people who can manage greater risk, and how investing in knowledge—not excuses—creates long-term wealth. Tony also dives into the principles of Stoicism, emotional discipline, and personal accountability, offering practical strategies to stop reacting to distractions and start responding like the person you aspire to become. If you're a business owner who wants to stop wasting energy on low-value distractions, build a stronger mindset, and focus on the opportunities that truly move the needle, this episode will challenge the way you think—and help you level up both your business and your life. Key highlights: How to escape a poor mindset and think like a successful entrepreneur. Why small distractions keep business owners from bigger opportunities. The concept of "graduating" to solving higher-value problems. How emotional discipline and Stoicism improve business decision-making. Why increasing your income starts with developing valuable skills. The connection between solving bigger problems and earning more. How to stop wasting energy on things outside your control. Practical mindset shifts to create more focus, peace, and long-term success. Connect with Tony Whatley: Website: 365driven.com Instagram: @365driven Facebook: 365 Driven

If we want people to change, we have to give them a way to see the truth for themselves.

One of history's most powerful rulers was shaped by a teacher he never met. In this episode, Ryan talks with Professor William O. Stephens about how Marcus Aurelius discovered Epictetus, why the former slave's teachings hit him so deeply, and how those ideas about freedom, power, and self-mastery helped shape the philosopher king.William O. Stephens is a philosopher specializing in Stoicism, ethics, and ancient philosophy. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of Pennsylvania and spent over 30 years teaching at Creighton University, where he is now Professor Emeritus. His work spans topics like friendship, ecology, and human nature, with a focus on Stoic thought. His latest book is Marcus Aurelius: Philosopher-King (2025), and he is also the author of Marcus Aurelius: A Guide for the Perplexed, Epictetus's Encheiridion: A New Translation and Guide to Stoic Ethics, and Stoic Ethics: Epictetus and Happiness as Freedom. Check out more of William Stephens' work at https://WilliamOStephens.com/

A master does not actually master anything. The Stoics understood this.

Change is hard but it doesn't mean you have to be hard on yourself.

The Stoics understood that the wealthiest person can still be a pauper—poor in peace, poor in contentment, poor in perspective.

Dr. Kirk Honda and Humberto respond to listener questions about Stoicism, and whether Kirk's voice has changed over the years, before revisiting the ending of Game of Thrones. He also reads a moving email from a first responder to the 2024 Fall City family murders who found unexpected relief after watching the PIS episode on family annihilators. July 20, 2026This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/KIRK to get 10% off your first month.00:00 Does all of stoicism suck? 04:15 Did Dr. Kirk intentionally change his voice?16:57 Thoughts on Game of Thrones40:41 First responders & family annihilators Support us by... Become a member: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOUZWV1DRtHtpP2H48S7iiw/joinBecome a patron: https://www.patreon.com/PsychologyInSeattleContact us/more info... Email: https://www.psychologyinseattle.com/contactAbout Dr. Kirk: https://www.psychologyinseattle.com/about-dr-kirk-hondaWebsite: https://www.psychologyinseattle.comGet stuff... Merch: https://psychologyinseattle-shop.fourthwall.com/KIRKgram (like Cameo): https://www.psychologyinseattle.com/kirkgramThe Psychology In Seattle Podcast ®Trigger Warning: This episode may include topics such as assault, trauma, and discrimination. If necessary, listeners are encouraged to refrain from listening and care for their safety and well-being. Disclaimer: The content provided is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. Nothing here constitutes personal or professional consultation, therapy, diagnosis, or creates a counselor-client relationship. Topics discussed may generate differing points of view. If you participate (by being a guest, submitting a question, or commenting) you must do so with the knowledge that we cannot control reactions or responses from others, which may not agree with you or feel unfair. Your participation on this site is at your own risk, accepting full responsibility for any liability or harm that may result. Anything you write here may be used for discussion or endorsement of the podcast. Opinions and views expressed by the host and guest hosts are personal views. Although we take precautions and fact check, they should not be considered facts and the opinions may change. Opinions posted by participants (such as comments) are not those of the hosts. Readers should not rely on any information found here and should perform due diligence before taking any action. For a more extensive description of factors for you to consider, please see www.psychologyinseattle.com

When did we stop asking what we could do better and start looking for someone else to blame? In this episode of the Via Stoica Podcast we examine one of the most common and costly habits in modern life: the blame game, and what Stoic philosophy says about how to break it.Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism. This episode is an honest look at how blame keeps us stuck, why it feels so comfortable, and what taking real responsibility for our lives actually looks like in practice.The shift did not happen overnight. A teacher approaching retirement described how in her early years, parents would tell underperforming children to work harder. Over time, that finger moved from the child to the teacher, from the self to everything outside it. That shift is not just happening in schools. It is happening in our relationships, our careers, and our inner lives.Epictetus placed blame squarely on the discipline of assent; we are not adding the correct judgment to what is happening. The discipline of desire reminds us that chasing externals makes blaming externals inevitable. And Epictetus described three stages of progress: the beginner blames everyone else, the intermediate blames themselves, and the advanced person simply does the work.The moment you stop blaming is the moment you start growing.Support the showviastoica.comYouTube: @viastoicaProduced by: Badmic.comNote: In the episode, I attributed the three stages of blame to Marcus Aurelius. This is actually from Epictetus, Enchiridion 5. The wisdom is the same; the source just needed correcting.

You don't need to be an egotistical asshole to be successful. History is filled with powerful people whose pride ultimately destroyed them, from Caligula and Nero to Xerxes and Mussolini. The Stoics believed the antidote to ego was humility, self-awareness, reflection, and honest introspection. In this episode, Ryan explores the dangers of ego and the timeless practices that can help you keep it in check, stay grounded, and remain a good person as you become more successful.

This episode is a replay from The Existential Stoic library. Enjoy! What do you do when you have a bad day? Do you face challenges head-on, or do you bury your head in the sand? In this episode, Danny and Randy discuss challenges they face and what to do when life is challenging.Subscribe to ESP's YouTube Channel! Thanks for listening!  Do you have a question you want answered in a future episode? If so, send your question to: existentialstoic@protonmail.com

What destroyed the Roman Republic was not one man or one moment, but a slow collapse of trust, duty, and shared values. In this episode, Ryan and ancient historian Barry Strauss discuss the broken civic bargain, economic strain, political violence, and personal ambition that pushed Rome toward civil war. They also talk about Cato's refusal to compromise, Caesar's decision to cross the Rubicon, and the warning the fall of the Roman Republic still holds for us today.Barry Strauss is a bestselling author, classicist, military and naval historian, and one of the leading authorities on leadership lessons from the ancient world. He is a senior fellow at the Hoover Institution, the Bryce and Edith M. Bowmar Professor in Humanistic Studies Emeritus at Cornell University, and a leading expert on ancient military history. Barry is the author of ten books on ancient history, translated into twenty languages, including The War That Made the Roman Empire, Ten Caesars, The Death of Caesar, and his latest book, Jews vs. Rome: Two Centuries of Rebellion Against the World's Mightiest Empire.Follow Barry on Instagram | @barrystrauss

Discipline, as a virtue, is related to the other virtues. By controlling our urges or wants or lifestyle, we're actually in a better position to be courageous or just.

https://linktr.ee/csjosephWhat's up, you hackers? In this episode of the C.S. Joseph Podcast, we dive into the natural mistrust and enmity between Subconscious Developed (SD) men and Unconscious Developed (UD) men — and exactly how SD men can finally learn to trust the right UD men.SD men see UD men as dangerous “soldier ants” and live in fear of them coalescing into wolf packs. This dynamic fuels feminism, societal blame games, fatherlessness, and the erosion of strong male spaces. We break down the worker ant vs soldier ant psychology, the 300 Spartans at Thermopylae, Stoicism vs the Socratic method, why women are actually attracted to dangerous UD men, biblical parallels (Jacob, Leah & Rachel), and the critical difference between real wolf packs and lone wolves (plus why you must avoid “harmony hell”).If you're an SD man craving real growth, accountability, and iron sharpening iron instead of staying comfy and stagnant — this episode shows you the path forward.Timestamps:00:00 - Intro & Cat Cameo01:20 - The Dangerous Nature of UD Men & Why SD Men Play It Safe03:50 - Feminism as a Product of SDism & The Worker/Soldier Ant Dynamic06:30 - Historical Example: 300 Spartans at Thermopylae08:10 - Stoicism vs Socratic Method for Psychological Completeness09:50 - The Blame Game: Fatherlessness, Abortion & Boomer SD Psychosis12:00 - Bloodlines, Female Attraction to Dangerous Men & Biblical Parallels14:20 - The Key: Wolf Packs Over Lone Wolves (Avoid Harmony Hell)16:40 - What Wolf Packs Actually Provide: Accountability, Leadership & Earned Safety18:10 - Practical Advice: Rituals, Challenge Coins & Identifying Real UD Packs19:20 - Outro & Resources(19:36)Take the Octagram test to discover whether you're SD or UD: https://octagram.me (Note: Results are currently being updated for greater accuracy. A new AI chatbot for psychoanalyzing yourself and others is coming very soon!)Join the premium Skool community for deeper content & Season 42: https://skool.com/csjosephThis episode will help you stop judging UD men by “vibe” and start building real trust and growth through authentic male wolf packs.

This episode is a replay from The Existential Stoic library. Enjoy! Are you experiencing an existential crisis? You might feel lost, anxious, depressed, and/or hopeless. Danny and Randy discuss how to overcome an existential crisis.  Check out the Cleveland Clinic's article featured in this episode: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/ways-to-overcome-an-existential-crisis/Subscribe to ESP's YouTube Channel! Thanks for listening!  Do you have a question you want answered in a future episode? If so, send your question to: existentialstoic@protonmail.com  

Discipline, in this way, isn't just about action; it's about control. Control over our impulses, our desires, and even our most deeply ingrained habits.

Marcus Aurelius was checked by philosophy, but if he hadn't been, he could have easily been a Nero or a Caligula. The American Founders knew this well.

With Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey hitting theaters this week, now is the perfect time to hear the Stoic lessons hidden within this ancient story. In this episode, Ryan travels through Greece and Ithaca to share 12 lessons about ego, perseverance, discipline, temptation, and what it really means to make it home.

“First, say to yourself what you would be,” Epictetus says, “and then do what you have to do.”

After recording their episode at The Daily Stoic Podcast studio, Ryan and Dr. Becky headed next door to The Painted Porch, where Ryan shared a few must-read book recommendations.Listen to the full podcast episode with Dr. Becky Kennedy

"Life is too short." It is one of the most common things people say and, according to Seneca, one of the most misguided. In this episode of the Via Stoica Podcast we examine what the Stoics actually thought about time and why the problem is never how much of it we have.Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism. This episode draws on Seneca's On the Shortness of Life to make an argument that is uncomfortable and liberating in equal measure: life is not short. We spend most of it somewhere else.Seneca observed that people guard their money and possessions carefully but give their time to anyone who asks. Every second lost is gone for good and we do not know when the last one will come. The people who complain loudest about life being short are often the busiest, but busy with the wrong things.This episode also explores what it looks like to design your life around what actually matters. Not as a distant goal to arrive at, but as a direction you can begin moving in today. When your values and priorities are clear, every small decision becomes deliberate and the feeling that life is passing you by begins to fade.As Seneca wrote, "Life is long, if only you knew how to use it."Read the full article: https://viastoica.com/how-to-design-your-life/Support the showviastoica.comYouTube: @viastoicaProduced by: Badmic.com

Hosts: Ed Jones (Owner – Nutrition World) & Clint Powell A variety of topics all related to living a healthy life Presented by: Nutrition World www.nutritionw.com Broadcasting from the Nooga Dentistry Studio www.noogadentistry.com Production of: Whitfield Media Group www.vitalhealthradio.com Title: All about Spike Proteins with Dr. Glenn, Beyond Cholesterol & Better Heart Testing with Dr. Dearing [0:00:00] – Intro: Brian Johnson, Longevity & Oxalates + Farmers Market Light banter about: Ed coining the term “peak span” and using it in interviews. Ed's social media success (8.3 million views in 90 days). Joking about Ed doing a shirtless video and his bodybuilding competition and carb loading. Ed talks about Brian Johnson (longevity guru who spends ~$2M/year trying to live to 120): Johnson recently announced an autoimmune condition where his stomach is “eating its own stomach.” Ed admires his data and “Blueprint” protocol but believes two key factors in Johnson's regimen contributed to this issue. Ed teases that one factor is excess oxalate-rich foods; the other factor is left as a teaser for Ed's social media video. Ed announces a weekly farmers market at Nutrition World: Every Wednesday, inside the store, morning to mid-afternoon. Run by a young family with clean farming practices and minimal chemicals. Nutrition World does not profit from it; framed as a service to the community and support for small farmers. [0:05:04] – Upcoming Guests, Ed's E‑Books & Podcasts Ed previews two interviews for this episode: Dr. Glenn – testing and managing spike proteins. Dr. Curt Dearing – discussing his new book “Beyond Cholesterol” and non-traditional views on cardiovascular risk. Ed's e‑books: Six e‑books available on theholisticnavigator.com, including: Quality sleep Oxalates and pain “Are You Sick and Tired?” (diet & overall health) Oral health Immune system “Core Four” foundational supplements Podcasts: Ed mentions his Holistic Navigator podcast Clint promotes Nooga Podcasts (noogapodcasts.com) – a network of 20+ podcasts. [0:09:26] – Interview with Dr. Glenn: What Are Spike Proteins & Why They Matter Dr. Glenn defines spike proteins: Discovered in the 1960s, normally part of viruses from nature. Our immune system usually recognizes and dissolves natural spike proteins. For COVID-era, lab-made spike proteins: They are not recognized properly by the body. They can persist and are not efficiently eliminated. Mechanism (simplified): Spike proteins interact with ACE2 receptors (“locks” on the cell door). They unlock and open the cell doors, enter the cells, and damage/destroy cells from the inside. Clint notes he never heard the term “spike protein” before COVID; Dr. Glenn explains: Previously, they weren't an issue because the body just handled them. This is the first time in history we've dealt with lab-made spike proteins at scale. Dr. Glenn stresses this is not simply vaccinated vs. unvaccinated: mRNA vaccines were designed to produce spike proteins. But unvaccinated people with bad cases of COVID can also carry very high spike levels. His personal story: Got severe COVID in Jan 2020, pre-official naming: 2 weeks very ill on couch/bed. 3 months to feel “recovered,” but that was just the start of long-term issues. Over the next 3+ years, progressive cellular damage accumulated, leading to a broad set of symptoms. Dr. Glenn's symptoms when spikes were very high: Whites of eyes turned gray, with burning eyes all day (constant eye drops). Tinnitus (ringing in ears). Cyclical rashes under armpits. Burning nerves in quads; needed leg massage devices nightly to sleep. Gout attacks (kidneys not handling uric acid well). Venous congestion in lower left leg. Severe fatigue, getting sick frequently despite doing everything “right.” Developed endocarditis (inflammation of heart and valves); resting heart rate jumped from 55–60 to 80–105. Subtle Bell's palsy–type weakness on left side of face and brain symptoms. Laboratory findings: Test: SARS‑CoV‑2 spike protein antibody test (semi-quantitative). Thresholds: 1000: likely too high, potential cell damage. 5000: “a whole other level of danger.” His highest result: 11,694 (measured around Oct 28, 2023). Progress over four tests: 11,694 → 11,087 → ~9,950 → 8,905 (as of June 30, current year). Many symptoms have significantly improved, though: Heart rate better but not back to baseline. Tinnitus persists. Spike level is still high, so work remains. Symptoms can vary dramatically from person to person: Because spikes can enter different “doors” (cells/tissues) in different bodies. One person's profile may be mostly neurological; another's cardiovascular, etc. Dr. Glenn's clinic policy: He will not work with someone on issues like hormones, gut, or cognitive problems without a spike antibody test, because: Otherwise they may be “paddling upstream” against ongoing spike-related damage. Observation: Many patients say: “My doctor says my bloodwork is fine,” yet they feel terrible. Conventional doctors rarely order spike protein antibody tests [0:23:01] – Managing High Spike Proteins: Testing, Risk & Protocol Who Should Test & How: Ed notes frequent COVID infections (he's had it six times) and that many people have unexplained symptoms. Both Ed and Dr. Glenn suggest: Spike antibody testing should be considered for anyone with mysterious chronic symptoms, regardless of age or vaccination status. Testing can be done through labs like Be Well Labs (which Nutrition World works with) or other local options. Reference values: < 0.08 means essentially no exposure to COVID. Out of ~130 tests Dr. Glenn has reviewed, only one person was

What if the secret to a happier life isn't having more, but wanting less?Marty Jalove sits down with his wife (and secret weapon) Kristi Jalove for a warm, funny, wisdom-packed conversation about Epicureanism, the 2,000-year-old philosophy that quietly cracked the code on lasting happiness. No stuffy history lecture here. Just two people who clearly adore each other, trading laughs, honest pushback, and a few tears along the way.Marty handed Kristi this topic with almost zero prep and the magic happened anyway. That's the chemistry that makes this show sing.Here's what you'll walk away with:Discover why the next purchase, promotion, or shiny upgrade rarely delivers real fulfillmentLearn the difference between fleeting pleasure and enduring happinessReframe your anxiety with Marty's hilarious "return it like an Amazon package" trickUnderstand the philosophy ladder from Epicurus to Stoicism to Master HappinessUnlock simple gratitude and connection habits you can start tonightIt all comes back to BACON: five bite-sized steps to a richer life: Be Present, Appreciate Abundance, Cultivate Connection, Own Your Choices, and Now Grow. Because on this show, everything bacon touches gets a little bit better.If you're chasing personal growth, a stronger mindset, and everyday joy grounded in ancient wisdom, this one's for you.Press play, then ask yourself one honest question: Which slice of BACON do I need most right now?Follow Bacon Bits with Master Happiness, share this episode with someone who needs a little more joy today, and leave a review to help others find their path to happiness.www.MasterHappiness.comwww.WhatsYourBacon.comwww.BaconBitsRadio.com

Ryan Holiday is a bestselling author and one of the most influential modern voices on Stoicism. His 12 books, including The Obstacle Is the Way, Ego Is the Enemy, and Stillness Is the Key, have sold more than 10 million copies worldwide. He's also the founder of Daily Stoic, a media company that reaches millions through books, podcasts, newsletters, and YouTube. In 2025, Ryan completed his four-book Stoic Virtues series and followed it with a sold-out international speaking tour. Shawn Ryan Show Sponsors: Sheath. The underwear of legends. Go to ⁠https://www.sheath.com/SRS⁠ and use code SRS for 20% off. Visit ⁠https://drinkag1.com/SRS⁠ to get a free AG1 Travel Case with 7 free AG1 Travel Packs in your Welcome Kit with your first AG1 subscription order while supplies last. Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @shop.mando and get 20% off with promo code SRS at ⁠https://shopmando.com⁠! #mandopod For problems worth solving — get started with Claude at — ⁠https://Claude.ai/srs⁠ Ready to upgrade your eyewear? Check them out at ⁠https://roka.com⁠ and use code SRS for 20% off sitewide. Ryan Holiday Links: Website - ⁠https://ryanholiday.net⁠ Daily Stoic - ⁠https://dailystoic.com⁠ Ryan Holiday IG - ⁠https://www.instagram.com/ryanholiday⁠ Daily Stoic IG - ⁠https://www.instagram.com/dailystoic⁠ Painted Porch Bookshop IG - ⁠https://www.instagram.com/paintedporchbookshop⁠ X - ⁠https://x.com/dailystoic⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The ability to be content, to be grateful, to be happy? These are the real luxuries, if you think about it.

The most powerful man in the world still needed rules to live by. In this episode, Ryan looks at the rules Marcus Aurelius seemed to return to again and again, especially when life was difficult, people were disappointing, and the responsibilities kept piling up.

Men may be looking for answers in all the wrong books. In this episode, Ryan is joined by bestselling author Steven Pressfield to talk about how great fiction can teach us about courage, honor, sacrifice, and the human experience in ways that facts and advice often cannot. Steven Pressfield is an American author of historical fiction, non-fiction, and screenplays. Steven wrote for 27 years before he got his first novel published. During that time he worked 21 different jobs in eleven states. Steven taught school, drove tractor-trailers, worked in advertising and as a screenwriter in Hollywood. He worked on offshore oil rigs, and picked fruit as a migrant worker. You can follow him on Instagram: @steven_pressfield and check out more of his work on his website: https://stevenpressfield.com/

We should let our light shine…and also let sunshine keep us honest.

We haven't been who we want to be. The routine slipped, the momentum disappeared, and before long, we weren't just off track, we'd given up. How do we fix it?

Aztec Philosophy, Ethics, and the Outward Path with Dr. Sebastian PurcellWhat if living a good life isn't about chasing happiness, but about building strong relationships and fulfilling your responsibilities to others?In this episode of Tales From Aztlantis, Kurly Tlapoyawa and Ruben Arellano Tlakatekatl sit down with philosopher Dr. Sebastian Purcell to discuss Aztec (Nahua) philosophy, ethics, language, and his groundbreaking books Discourses of the Elders and The Outward Path. Together they explore why Nahua philosophy deserves to stand alongside Greek, Indian, and Chinese philosophical traditions, and why many of its teachings remain surprisingly relevant today.Dr. Purcell shares the story of how he transitioned from computer science and mathematical logic into philosophy before discovering the rich intellectual tradition preserved in Classical Nahuatl texts. He explains the challenges of producing the first intentionally philosophical English translation of the Huehuetlahtolli and why translating philosophy requires different choices than translating historical documents.The conversation then turns to one of the central ideas in Nahua ethics: that living well is fundamentally a social endeavor. Rather than viewing ethics as an individual pursuit, the Nahuas understood human flourishing as something achieved through cooperation, mutual obligation, and healthy communities. Dr. Purcell contrasts this worldview with Aristotle, Confucius, Stoicism, and Buddhism, arguing that Nahua philosophy emphasizes an "outward path" that begins with our relationships before turning inward.Along the way, the discussion explores the meaning of concepts such as in ixtli in yollotl (face and heart), in kwalli in yektli (the good and the right), rootedness, centeredness, and the famous Nahua metaphor of the slippery earth. The hosts also discuss whether modern scholars sometimes underestimate the philosophical sophistication of Nahua texts by insisting on overly literal translations.The latter portion of the interview examines how to distinguish Indigenous teachings from later colonial Christian additions in the Huehuetlahtolli. Dr. Purcell proposes that passages emphasizing intrinsic reasons for acting well are more likely to preserve precolonial Nahua thought, while passages grounded primarily in divine punishment often reflect later Christian influence.Finally, the conversation tackles one of the most debated subjects in Nahua studies: the controversial concept of Ometeotl, Miguel León-Portilla's influence on the field, and what current scholarship can and cannot confidently say about pre-Hispanic Nahua theology.Whether you're interested in philosophy, Mesoamerican history, Nahuatl language, archaeology, or Indigenous knowledge, this episode offers an engaging introduction to one of the world's richest philosophical traditions.Topics DiscussedDr. Sebastian Purcell's path from mathematics to philosophyTranslating the Huehuetlahtolli into EnglishWhy Nahua philosophy deserves recognition as philosophyEthics versus morality in Nahua thoughtThe social nature of virtue"The Outward Path" and why relationships matter more than individual happinessFace and heart (in ixtli in yollotl)The slippery earth and rootednessNahua concepts of virtue and the good lifeClassical Nahuatl and philosophical languageDecolonizing interpretations of Nahua textsSeparating Indigenous teachings from Christian interpolationMiguel León-Portilla, Ometeotl, and ongoing scholarly debatesBooks MentionedDiscourses of the Elders: The Aztec HuehuetlahtolliThe Outward Path: The Wisdom of the AztecsMemorable Quotes"Acting well is inherently a social activity, not an individual activity.""You're not really after happiness. You're after a rich, meaningful life with your friends and family around you.""The goal of ethics is to help you live better.""Go outward first, then come in."Connect With Tales From AztlantisIf you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Tales From Aztlantis, leave a review, and share it with someone interested in Indigenous philosophy, Nahua culture, and Mesoamerican history.Listen wherever you get your podcasts.listener comments? Feedback? Shoot us a text!Use the promo code “KURLY” in the "How did you hear about this adventure?" field when you sign up for a $200 discount.Visit skeptoid.com/adventures to learn more and reserve your spot. I hope you'll join me this December as we explore the mysteries of the Maya together. This December, I'll be joining Skeptoid Adventures as your guide for The Mysteries of the Maya, where we'll travel through the Yucatán exploring remarkable archaeological sites, uncovering the real history behind the Maya civilization, and separating fact from fiction along the way. To reserve your spot, all you need is a fully refundable $500 deposit. Your deposit is refundable through August 1, so you can reserve your place with confidence. After Au Lignum is a haven for culture, rest, and resistance. We believe in celebrating community and honoring the land that holds us. At our urban “milpa,” we practice indigenous science that respects the natural cycles of the region, and most of our workshops are hosted by indigenous and local experts. Every project we do is grounded in collective memory, creativity, and respect for the land and its people.  Order "NEVER WILL IT BE LOST" and get $5 off!Support Lignum: A Cultural Haven in MéridaYour Hosts:Kurly Tlapoyawa is an archaeologist, ethnohistorian, and filmmaker. His research covers Mesoamerica, the American Southwest, and the historical connections between the two regions. He is the author of numerous books and has presented lectures at the University of New Mexico, Harvard University, Yale University, San Diego State University, and numerous others. He most recently released his documentary short film "Guardians of the Purple Kingdom," and is a cultural consultant for Nickelodeon Animation Studios.@kurlytlapoyawaRuben Arellano Tlakatekatl is a scholar, activist, and professor of history. His research explores Chicana/Chicano indigeneity, Mexican indigenist nationalism, and Coahuiltecan identity resurgence. Other areas of research include Aztlan (US Southwest), Anawak (Mesoamerica), and Native North America. He has presented and published widely on these topics and has taught courses at various institutions. He currently teaches history at Dallas College – Mountain View Campus. Find us: Bluesky...

Maybe you don't get the job. Maybe that person says “no” to a date. Maybe you find out you don't actually enjoy playing the piano. So what?

You can be successful and still not be flourishing. In this episode, Ryan talks with leadership expert Dan Coyle about the difference between living like a machine and living like a human being. They talk about why high performance can become hollow, where real meaning comes from, and why simple mantras matter more than we think. They also discuss the importance of community, the role of “yellow door” moments, and how the words you use shape the way you show up.Daniel Coyle is the award-winning author of the New York Times bestsellers The Culture Code, The Talent Code, and his NEW book Flourish: The Art of Building Meaning, Joy, and Fulfillment. Check out more of Dan's work on his website https://danielcoyle.com/

Most speakers assume the flood of AI-generated content is bad news for them. In this solo episode, John Ball argues the opposite: as content gets cheaper and more abundant, a real human voice saying something only they could say becomes harder to ignore, not easier to overlook.John traces why speaking has held power for centuries, from Cicero to Churchill to Martin Luther King, and pulls in a callback to an early conversation with Stoic philosophy expert Donald Robertson on Marcus Aurelius, who treated rhetoric as a discipline rather than decoration. From there, John properly defines what a keynote actually is (and isn't), why the format exists, and why panels, workshops and webinars can't do the same job. He closes with a specific, evidence-backed prediction for where professional speaking is heading, drawing on a recent conversation with David Newman and a preview of an upcoming interview with Dominic Eldred-Earl of London Speaker Bureau.Get the email outreach templates to get you booked: https://present-influence.kit.com/96ec2d2b85In this episode:Why the post-Covid hunger for real human connection was the first sign of where this was headingWhat Marcus Aurelius and Stoic philosophy have to do with modern speakingA proper definition of a keynote, and why it varies in style but not in structural purposeWhy panels, workshops and webinars can't replicate what a keynote doesThe specific reason AI can't replace a speaker with a genuine point of viewAn early preview of what London Speaker Bureau is seeing in the market right nowChapters:0:00 Why speaking is becoming more valuable, not less1:00 The post-Covid hunger for real human connection3:00 Speaking as an ancient, powerful medium4:00 Historical speeches and why the medium still works5:00 Marcus Aurelius, Stoicism and rhetoric as discipline6:00 What a keynote actually is7:00 Why AI can't replace a real point of view8:00 What London Speaker Bureau is seeing in the market9:00 The prediction10:00 CTA and what's coming next4. FAQ Section (AI Retrieval Format)What does John Ball say about AI and the future of public speaking? John Ball argues that AI-generated content is making professional speaking more valuable, not less, because a real speaker's point of view is one of the few things AI cannot replicate.What is a keynote, according to John Ball? John Ball defines a keynote as a deliberate structural format built around one voice holding a sustained, undiluted block of audience attention, distinct from panels, workshops and webinars, though style and delivery can vary widely within that structure.Who is Donald Robertson and why does John Ball mention him? Donald Robertson is a Stoic philosophy expert and author who appeared on an early episode of Professional Speaking to discuss Marcus Aurelius' approach to rhetoric, which John Ball references as an example of speech treated as a serious discipline rather than performance.What did David Newman say about AI and content that John Ball references? David Newman argued on a previous episode of Professional Speaking that how-to content became commoditised once ChatGPT went public, leaving a speaker's way of thinking, beliefs and predictions as the remaining scarce value.Who is Dominic Eldred-Earl and what does he say about the speaking market? Dominic Eldred-Earl of London Speaker Bureau is an upcoming guest on Professional Speaking who reports that demand for professional speakers keeps increasing even as more speakers enter the market, with strong speakers continuing to get booked.Visit https://strategic-speaker.scoreapp.com to take the 2-minute Strategic Speaking Business Audit and find out what's blocking you from getting more bookings, re-bookings, referrals and bigger fees. There's a special surprise gift for everyone who completes the quiz.Want to get coached for free on the show? Fill in the form https://forms.gle/mo4xYkEiCjqtz9yP6, and if we think your challenge could help others, we'll invite you on.For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedInYou can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluenceThanks for listening. Rating the show 5* on Spotify helps their algo recommend the show, so please take a moment to follow the show and leave a rating.

As Epictetus said, “First tell yourself what kind of person you want to be, then do what you have to do.”

Donald Robertson is a cognitive behavioral psychotherapist, author of over nine books, and one of the founding voices in the modern Stoicism movement. He has spent over 30 years studying how ancient Greek and Roman philosophy intersects with contemporary psychology, and in this conversation we start where it all begins: the maxim carved into the temple of Apollo at Delphi. Know thyself. We explore what it actually meant, who said it, and why it still matters more than most self-help advice written in the last century.What We Dive Into:1. The Stoics drew a sharp line between what actually happens and the value judgments we add on top of it. To say something "is awful" treats our emotional reaction as a fact about the world.2. Of all the emotions that derail a life, anger gets the least attention in therapy, self-help, and honest self-reflection.3. In the ancient world, wisdom was not something you consumed or memorized. It was something you practiced daily. Collecting insights without changing your behavior is closer to what the Sophists sold than to what Socrates taught.Know Thyself, but not by yourself. A guided space to return home to yourself.https://www.knowthyselfcollective.com✨THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS:https://drinkLMNT.com/KnowThyselfTry LMNT & get a free sample pack https://www.timeline.com/KNOWTHYSELF Save 20% off your Mitopure® Gummies___________00:00 Intro01:53 Know Thyself: The Three Sayings at Delphi07:44 What Philosophy Actually Means11:17 Socrates vs. the Sophists: Wisdom vs. Appearance18:05 The Stoic U-Turn: Reorienting What We Value23:59 Self-Knowledge as a Mirror for the Soul26:59 Values Clarification and the Eulogy Exercise35:02 Ad: LMNT36:03 Eudaimonia: Flourishing, Not Just Happiness39:40 Hardship as Opportunity for Character45:31 A Brief History of Stoicism53:22 Ad: Timeline Mitopure54:33 The Stoics Were Way Ahead of Their Time59:30 Stoicism, India, and Alexander the Great1:06:31 Early Christianity and Greek Philosophy1:14:03 Marcus Aurelius: The Man Behind the Meditations1:19:17 Philosophy Born from Injury: Marcus and Donald1:32:52 Uppercase vs. Lowercase Stoicism1:38:28 The Two Phases of Emotion1:45:47 Prosoché: The Practice of Paying Attention1:50:40 Appearance vs. Reality: The Stoic Core1:56:34 Turning the Chinese Proverb into a Practice2:02:44 The View from Above and the Acropolis2:11:28 Premeditatio Malorum: Rehearsing Adversity2:17:27 Anger as Temporary Madness2:23:26 De-Romanticizing Desire2:36:58 Sophists, Rhetoric, and Modern Influencers2:44:47 Why Self-Help Isn't More Helpful2:56:17 The Socratic Method as Cure for Conceit3:13:19 The King Who Rules Himself3:17:50 The Oracle of Delphi and Socrates' Mission3:33:44 Injustice Harms the Perpetrator More3:36:51 Donald's Own Life: Philosophy as a Path3:38:46 The Eleusinian Mysteries and Marcus's Initiation3:48:21 Learning to Die as Liberation3:55:29 Marcus's Naked Soul: Transparency as Practice3:58:07 What the Stoics Taught About Love4:02:05 Rapid Fire: The Great Philosophers4:16:00 Closing Message: You Underestimate Your Resilience___________✨MORE FROM DONALD ROBERTSON↳Substack: https://donaldrobertson.substack.com/↳Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1732050.Donald_J_Robertson↳Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/donaldjrobertson/↳YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DonaldJRobertsonAuthor/featured↳https://donaldrobertson.name

Something is very wrong in the opening scenes of the Odyssey. The master of the house is gone. His wife is besieged. His son is powerless. And the men eating him out of house and home are waiting for the right moment to strike. Welcome to Part 1 (of 6!) of our new series, where we cover Homer's great epic. Part 1 covers Books 1 to 4, the monsters haven't arrived yet — but the groundwork for everything is laid here. What does it take to reestablish order once it has fallen? What kind of man can do it? Follow Telemachus as he learns to speak, to threaten, and to travel among serious men, and meet the figures who shape his fate: Athena, Penelope, Nestor, Menelaus, Helen, and the doomed suitors led by Antinous. As Christopher Nolan's film approaches, it's a perfect time to dust off a copy of Homer's Odyssey, and follow along this epic story in our 6-part retelling.Timestamps:0:00 Why the Odyssey begins with Odysseus's absence1:08 Introducing the show1:25 Book One: Athena visits Ithaca4:05 Telemachus welcomes the stranger7:33 The poem's opening lines and Odysseus's epithets10:06 Odysseus and the wrath of Poseidon11:43 The Council of the Gods13:58 Athena's plan to help Telemachus17:20 Athena's instructions: call an assembly19:08 The story of Orestes and Telemachus's zeal22:08 Penelope's first appearance27:00 Telemachus finds his courage29:25 Book Two: The Assembly begins31:56 Antinous defends the suitors35:59 The omen of the eagles37:55 Telemachus's plan revealed40:16 Athena returns as Mentor45:15 Telemachus sets sail for Pylos46:48 Book Three: Arrival at Pylos52:41 The story of Agamemnon and Aegisthus1:02:17 Book Four: Arrival in Sparta1:05:28 Helen's grand entrance1:11:41 Helen's magic drug1:19:50 Menelaus and Proteus, the shapeshifting sea god1:27:08 Menelaus's fate: the Elysian Fields1:32:09 The suitors plot to kill Telemachus1:33:23 Closing thoughtsCallouts:Special thanks to Dr. Richard Johnson for his longtime support of the show. You are Caesar and Odysseus's Top Guy!In tribute to the life and aspirations of Savitha Shanmugasundaram, a University of Texas at Austin honors student who died tragically in the March 1 mass shooting, her parents have established the Savitha Shan Endowed Scholarship at UT Austin. The fund is intended to extend Savitha's legacy by supporting the educational journeys of future UT Austin students. Please consider donating if you can. 

There are all the things that wealthy people buy with their money. They buy nice cars and enormous homes. They pay for access. They hire help. But there is one thing that they cannot buy.

What if the next chapter of your business starts with the next book you read? In this episode, I share the five books that completely transformed the way I think about discipline, leadership, wealth, and productivity—and why I wish someone had handed them to me at 25. You’ll discover the simple mindset shifts that helped me overcome anxiety, build better habits five minutes at a time, and create a business that generates more while demanding less of my time. We also dive into the timeless principles behind Stoicism, relentless execution, intentional routines, and why becoming a better leader always starts with leading yourself. If you’re an entrepreneur who wants to increase your income, reclaim your time, and build a life that doesn’t require sacrificing your family or freedom, this episode is the perfect place to start. Let me know what you think of today’s episode! Did you learn something new? Am I missing something? Is there something that has or hasn’t worked for you in your path to success? Send me an IG DM or email and let me know how I can help you level up in life. The post 474 – If You’re Under 30, Read These 5 Books appeared first on Early To Rise.

In this episode, Kurt puts Jon on the hot seat with a simple game: Was this famous person a Stoic...or not? Winston Churchill. Queen Elizabeth II. Napoleon Bonaparte. Amelia Earhart. Marcus Aurelius is too easy, so don't expect any freebies. Along the way, they separate Stoicism from simply "having a stiff upper lip," talk about why this 2,000-year-old philosophy has suddenly become fashionable again, and discover that being calm under pressure isn't the same thing as being a Stoic. It's a history quiz, a philosophy lesson, and round after round of Kurt asking, "Are you sure?" until Jon isn't.

The world feels broken, and it's easy to believe nothing is ever going to change. In this audiobook excerpt from Soul Boom, Rainn Wilson makes the case for a spiritual revolution and pushes us to wonder what would happen if we rejected cynicism and stopped building so much of our world around competition, greed, and ego.Rainn Wilson is an actor, comedian, author, podcaster, writer, and director. He is most known for his role as Dwight Schrute on The Office, for which he earned three consecutive Emmy Award nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. You can follow Rainn on Instagram @rainnwilson and Twitter @rainnwilson, and on soulboom.com. Listen to Rainn's Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Watch on YouTubeIf you like this chapter

For the Fourth of July, we're revisiting Ryan's conversation with Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Thomas Ricks about America's founding, the ancient ideas that shaped it, and the first principles the founders were trying to build into the country.In this episode, Ryan and Thomas talk about First Principles: What America's Founders Learned From the Greeks and Romans and How That Shaped Our Country, and why figures like Washington, Adams, Jefferson, and Madison looked to the ancient world for models of courage, discipline, justice, and wisdom.

Life is going to ask you to wait sometimes. There will be people ahead of you. There will be things you need to learn. To be able to do this will take all of the Stoic virtues.

 If we don't believe we're capable of change, then we are definitely not capable of change.

We are what we do. What we do determines who we can be.

Jo Ellis spent years serving her country as an Army National Guard aviator and Black Hawk helicopter pilot. She wanted to fly, serve, and be part of something bigger than herself. Then, after a deadly aircraft collision over the Potomac, a false rumor spread online claiming Jo was responsible. She was not involved. She was not even there. But because she was a trans service member, the internet turned her into a target.In this episode, Ryan talks with Jo about service, identity, courage, and what it feels like to have your life turned upside down by a lie. They talk about her path from helicopter mechanic to pilot, the SERE training experience that forced her to confront the truth about herself, the cost of being publicly scapegoated, and why one of the most Stoic things we can do is resist the urge to have an opinion about everything.Follow Jo Ellis on Instagram | @JoEllisReallyWatch Jo Ellis on Kill Tony | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_WYC-flN8Nc

People fall prey to the same traps—the ones that have existed since the days of Seneca and Marcus Aurelius, indeed for all time.

Everyone is new to this. We're all figuring it out as we go.

The Stoics studied powerful people not to worship them, but to learn from them. In this episode, Ryan looks at Elon Musk through the lens of courage, discipline, justice, and wisdom, and what his life reveals about the difference between success and virtue.

Ezra Klein is one of the sharpest voices in American politics, but this conversation is not about left versus right. It's about virtue, responsibility, and character. Ryan and Ezra talk about why virtue matters in a democracy, what liberalism has lost by failing to speak clearly about responsibility, and why institutions alone can't save a society if the people inside them abandon restraint, honesty, and self-critique. They also get into what Ezra thinks Stoicism gets right, where it falls short, and why Stoicism, or any philosophy, has to be tested in real life.Ezra Klein is a New York Times columnist and the host of The Ezra Klein Show. He is also the co-founder of Vox, where he served as editor-in-chief and later editor-at-large, and previously worked at The Washington Post, The American Prospect, Bloomberg, and MSNBC.

In this bonus episode, Ryan is takes you inside his office and walks through the books, objects, notes, and reminders that shape how he works and lives.