Podcasts about stoics

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

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

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

Pharisees were recognized by their phylacteries. Levites were recognized by their garments. John's disciples were recognized by their baptism. Stoics were recognized by their ascetic lifestyle. Legalists are recognized by what they do not do. What is a Christian to be recognized by? Join us for this episode of Wisdom from Above as Jesus reveals the badge of discipleship.

In this episode, we explore the powerful philosophy of Pantheism—the belief that God is identical with the universe and everything in it. From ancient roots to modern interpretations, we dive deep into how Pantheism connects spirituality, science, and nature in a unified vision of reality.Find me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or through a one-time donation: https://paypal.me/talkreligiondonateAlso check out the Let's Talk Religion Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/0ih4sqtWv0wRIhS6HFgerb?si=95b07d83d0254bSources/Recomended Reading:Chittick, William (1989). "The Sufi Path of Knowledge: Ibn 'Arabi's Metaphysics of Imagination".Chittick, William (1998). "The Self-Disclosure of God: Principles of Ibn al-'Arabi's Cosmology". State University of New York Press.Chittick, William (2005). "Ibn Arabi: Heir to the Prophets". OneWorld Publications.Garrett, Don (1996). "The Cambridge Companion to Spinoza". Cambridge University Press.Gatti, Hilary (ed.) (2002). "Giordano Bruno: Philosopher of the Renaissance". Routledge.Idel, Moshe (1990). "Kabbalah: New Perspectives". Yale University Press.Inwood, Brad (ed.) (2003). "The Cambridge Companion to the Stoics". Cambridge University Press.Levine, Michael P.P. (2014). "Pantheism: A Non-Theistic Concept of Deity". Routledge.McGinn, Bernard. "The Presence of God" Series, in several volumes. Perhaps the best and most comprehensive introduction to Christian mysticism. Published by Crossroad Publishing Co.Scholem, Gershom (1995). "Major Trends in Jewish Mysticism". Schocken Books; Revised edition.Rubenstein, Mary-Jane (2018). "Pantheologies: Gods, Worlds, Monsters". Columbia University Press.Wolfson, Harry Austryn (2014). "The Philosophy of Spinoza: Unfolding the Latent Processes of His Reasoning". Harvard University Press."The Ethics" by Spinoza"Cause, Principle & Unity" by Giordano Bruno Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 292 of The Just Checking In Podcast we checked in with Kyt Lyn Walken. Kyt is a qualified man-tracker and the Founder of her own tracking business, The Way of Tracking. Kyt's father was obsessed with western television and movies and he introduced her to man tracking skills from the age of around 5/6 years old. In 2012/2013 she got into survival skills professionally and found a school to learn how to do it. She underwent three courses in Arizona in the United States, then moved to Virginia to learn from the man who would become her tutor, before finally learning to become an instructor in 2017. After starting her own school, she saw a gap in the market and wanted to provide a bridge between forensic teams in the police and search and rescue. She created a specific programme for search and rescue teams to help put them in the mind of a missing person and what conditions they might have which would impact their behaviour i.e. autism, dementia and alzheimer's. In this episode we discuss her journey into man-tracking, becoming a qualified expert, starting her own business, the three principles of tracking she follows of ‘Identify, Decipher and Follow', as well as how the Stoics and their principles have shaped how she approaches the process of tracking. For Kyt's mental health journey, we discuss the sudden loss of her mother at the start of 2023 from a very aggressive form of cancer and the impact that had on her mental health. As always, #itsokaytovent You can find out more about The Way of Tracking here: https://thewayoftracking.com/ You can follow The Way of Tracking on social media below: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewayoftracking/ You can follow Kyt on social media below: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kytlynwalken/ Support Us: Patreon: www.patreon.com/venthelpuk PayPal: paypal.me/freddiec1994?country.x=GB&locale.x=en_GB Merchandise: www.redbubble.com/people/VentUK/shop Music: @patawawa - Strange: www.youtube.com/watch?v=d70wfeJSEvk

Fear is the most common force keeping golfers—and people—stuck.  But here's the truth: you're not actually afraid of missing the putt, chunking the chip, or topping your drive.  You're afraid of what it means about you.  Of being judged.  Rejected.  No longer welcome.  In this solo episode, I break down the hidden cost of living in fear and the subtle yet life-changing difference between feeling scared and being fearful. I also discuss timeless wisdom from the Stoics, actionable tools to diffuse fear, and a powerful exercise to help you move forward, on and off the course. In this episode, you'll learn… Why “fear” is a survival state—and why it's keeping you stuck The difference between being scared and being afraid The 3 primal fears that still drive modern-day self-sabotage How fear hijacks your imagination and narrows your focus Why standing out—even in a Saturday foursome—can trigger intense fear How to use action as a tool to break free from fear's grip What Tim Ferriss' “Fear-Setting” exercise can teach you about worst-case scenarios Get your pencils ready and start listening.  Resources Mentioned: Dissecting Fear: Understanding the Invisible Force That Shapes Your Game Nerves or Readiness? How to Reframe Your Body's Physical Reaction on (and off) the Golf Course 1-1 High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching: If you're serious about getting out of your own way and playing to your potential, click here to schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call to learn how I can help you make playing to your potential a habit.  High-Performance Hypnosis Guided Audios: Ready to get a taste of hypnosis? Click here to choose from one of my unique hypnosis audios to help you accelerate improvement in a specific area of your game. Click here to read my Ultimate Guide to Golf Hypnosis. Purchase the Wicked Smart Practice Plan Formula: Click here to learn how to practice with intention and what to do to get the most out of your practice sessions to drop your scores - fast. Use the code “salter” at checkout to save 10%. Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my “Play Your Best Round” free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist  Twitter: @parsoverbogeys Key Takeaways: Fear is a state of being; scared is a temporary emotion. Understanding this distinction can unlock courageous action. All fear traces back to three primal drivers: judgment, abandonment, and rejection. Fear hijacks your nervous system and narrows your focus to the worst-case scenario. You don't fear the shot—you fear what it might mean about your worth or belonging. Action is the antidote to fear—it interrupts paralysis and builds self-trust. Avoiding fear feels safe, but it keeps you stuck and drains your energy. Hypnotherapy can help uncover and release the root causes of irrational fear. Key Quotes: “Be scared. You can't help that. But don't be afraid.” – William Faulkner “Fear is a choice. It does not serve you.” “Feeling scared is normal—it means you care.” “Golf is a mirror of your personal development journey.” “Standing out is scary because it threatens your sense of belonging.” “Suffer more often in imagination than in reality.” – Seneca “Avoiding fear keeps you safe. Leaning into fear helps you grow.” Time Stamps: 00:00: Understanding Fear: The Core of Our Challenges 08:14: Types of Fear: The Fear Jar Explained 14:34: The Cost of Fear: Stagnation vs. Growth 23:04: Action Over Fear: Strategies for Overcoming 28:49: Conclusion: Embracing Fear for Personal Growth

This week I reflect on Meditations 4.6 and consider whether Marcus is really writing about death—or if he's reminding himself of the silliness of resisting what naturally unfolds. I explore the Stoic view of fate through the lens of the causal chain and point out where I think Stoicism allows some space for personal agency and emotional response. We also address the human tendency to lament things we cannot change, and I explain why indulging in that lamentation holds us back from our progress toward virtue. In the second half of the episode, I respond to a thoughtful listener question about how to let go of responsibilities when you've taken on too much. We dig into the difference between permanent and elective roles, what Stoicism asks of us when it comes to stepping away from duties, and how to abandon certain roles without abandoning our moral character in the process. “These are natural and necessary results from creatures of this kind, and one who wants this to be otherwise wants the fig-tree not to yield its acrid juice. And in general remember this, that within a very little while both he and you will be dead, and a little after not even your name nor his will be left.” — Meditations 4.6 Join the Practical Stoicism community, the Society of Stoics, at https://community.stoicismpod.com. Members enjoy ad-free episodes, weekly journaling prompts, a membership medallion, and access to regular live calls and discussions. Join today at https://community.stoicismpod.com. Buy my book: https://stoicismpod.com/book Read source material: https://stoicismpod.com/far Subscribe on YouTube: https://stoicismpod.com/youtube Follow me on Bluesky: https://stoicismpod.com/bluesky Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is a replay from The Existential Stoic library. Enjoy! When was the last time you really considered some deep philosophical questions? Questions like: Why does suffering happen? Is there anything wrong with being selfish? Does morality come from within or outside ourselves? In this episode (part 2), Danny and Randy ask and answer additional thought-provoking philosophical questions.   Philosophical Question List used in this episode: 240 Thought-Provoking Philosophical Questions [Sorted By Category] - Homeschool AdventureSubscribe 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  Danny, Randy, and their good friend, Russell, created a new podcast, CodeNoobs, for anyone interested in tech and learning how to code. Listen to CodeNoobs now online, CodeNoobs-podcast, or wherever you get your podcasts.

The Stoics remind you that the point of financial security is to feel secure. The point of plenty is to realize that you have enough. You can't fear losing what you had–there was a time you didn't have it and you survived.

In this episode, I reflect on Meditations 4.5 and Marcus Aurelius' effort to habituate acceptance of death as a natural and necessary part of life. Drawing from Marcus' experiences leading Rome through war and plague, I explore how his preoccupation with death wasn't morbid, but practical—an attempt to remain aligned with Nature and his duty within the Cosmopolis. Death, like birth, is part of the universal order, and Stoicism teaches us that fearing it contradicts the very reason and nature we're trying to live in accordance with. I also answer a listener question about the tension between patience and passivity. When someone wrongs us repeatedly, how do we maintain Stoic endurance without becoming doormats? I break down how context and role-based duties shape what it means to act justly, and I offer practical strategies for staying true to Stoic principles while setting boundaries that honor both ourselves and others. Midlife folks, click here: https://stoicismpod.com/midlife Meditations 4.5 Death is such as generation is, a mystery of nature… not a thing of which any man should be ashamed, for it is not contrary to the nature of a reasonable animal, and not contrary to the reason of our constitution. THREE TAKEAWAYS — Death is neither good nor bad—it's a natural process necessary to life itself. — Stoic practice requires continual habituation, especially around fear and mortality. — Setting boundaries is not un-Stoic when done with reason and care for all parties involved. Join the Practical Stoicism community, the Society of Stoics, at https://community.stoicismpod.com. Members enjoy ad-free episodes, weekly journaling prompts, a membership medallion, and access to regular live calls and discussions. Join today at https://community.stoicismpod.com. Buy my book: https://stoicismpod.com/book Read source material: https://stoicismpod.com/far Subscribe on YouTube: https://stoicismpod.com/youtube Follow me on Bluesky: https://stoicismpod.com/bluesky Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Powerful people can take from you. Yet the Stoics remind us: our character is our own.

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on StoicismIn this episode, Brendan interviews his co-host, Benny Voncken, to explore the personal journey that brought him to Stoic philosophy. From a difficult divorce and battles with alcohol to finding strength through books and reflection, Benny opens up about how Stoicism became his lifeline.You'll hear how a moment of crisis in a hotel room sparked a turning point, how reading Marcus Aurelius and Epictetus shaped his outlook, and how Stoicism helped him set boundaries, let go of people-pleasing, and rediscover his sense of purpose. Benny also reflects on the role of love, teaching Stoic Week, and why Epictetus' blunt wisdom gave him the wake-up call he needed.If you're on your own Stoic path or curious where to begin, Benny's story shows that philosophy isn't just a theory — it's a practical companion for real transformation.Do you have a Stoic story to share? We'd love to feature it.https://viastoica.com/stoic-stories/Support the showwww.ViaStoica.comhttps://viastoica.com/stoic-life-coaching/https://viastoica.com/benny-voncken/https://viastoica.com/Brendan-hogle/https://twitter.com/ViaStoicaReach us: info@viastoica.comProduced by: http://badmic.com

This episode is a replay from The Existential Stoic library. Enjoy! When was the last time you really considered some deep philosophical questions? Questions like: Why does suffering happen? Is there anything wrong with being selfish? Does morality come from within or outside ourselves? In this episode, Danny and Randy ask and answer some thought-provoking philosophical questions.   Philosophical Question List used in this episode: 240 Thought-Provoking Philosophical Questions [Sorted By Category] - Homeschool AdventureSubscribe 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 Danny, Randy, and their good friend, Russell, created a new podcast, CodeNoobs, for anyone interested in tech and learning how to code. Listen to CodeNoobs now online, CodeNoobs-podcast, or wherever you get your podcasts.

It's a good day to be a Geeky Stoics subscriber here on Substack! You all get first access to this week's video conversations with Ryan Holiday of the Daily Stoic. I told you about the trip to Palm Springs, and it was to moderate this panel tackling the differences and overlaps of Stoicism and Objectivism. To recap: Stoicism is ancient Greek and Roman philosophy rooted in self-mastery, emotional regulation, and letting go of things beyond your control. Objectivism took form post-World War II through the philosopher and writer Ayn Rand. It is about self-focus, individual fulfillment, and “rational egoism” or putting yourself first as a matter of rational thought.Ryan Holiday is famed for his books, "The Obstacle Is the Way," "Ego Is the Enemy," "The Daily Stoic," "Stillness Is the Key", “Courage Is Calling” and his new book “Wisdom Takes Work” comes out this fall. Millions of people receive his daily emails and podcasts, and most of what Geeky Stoics does would not exist without his work. It was cool to meet him and ask him some questions about the life well-lived. Thanks for reading Geeky Stoics! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.Some takeawaysHoliday framed freedom as the opportunity for self-discipline. Drawing on figures like Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, and even Eisenhower, he emphasized that inner liberty (freedom from passion, chaos, and internal compulsion) is central to Stoic ethics. Stoicism holds that true freedom is achieved through mastery of the self, rather than simple absence of constraint. In Ryan's books, he has called this “the empire between your ears”. Even a person living in chains cannot be truly forced to vacate their freedom of thought and action. For Stoics, unchecked liberty is a quick road to being enslaved by desire, and so self-restraint is not seen as a limitation but as a form of empowerment.This is an area I tend to strongly agree on. Richards, representing Ayn Rand's Objectivism, defined freedom as freedom from coercion (force or fraud) that threatens one's ability to think, act, and pursue personal happiness. Objectivism prioritizes the individual's rational mind as the highest tool for flourishing, arguing that the pursuit of joy and personal achievement is the purpose of freedom. It's not dismissive of self-discipline, and so Richards emphasized how a person can harm oneself with the pursuit of constant vice. Enjoying the panel discussion? Now check out our 1-on-1 interview with Ryan Holiday about parenting, Hamilton, and philosophyOverlap and Contrast on the panel Both philosophies value rationality, personal responsibility, and civic virtue. However, Stoicism is inward-facing, concerned with moral resilience and inner peace, while Objectivism is outward-facing, focused on creative achievement and individual flourishing.Holiday illustrated Stoic freedom with the example of Epictetus—a slave who, despite literal bondage, enjoyed greater internal freedom than Rome's elite who had to suck up to tyrants to make a living. Richards acknowledged this but argued that Objectivism's strength lies in its systematic approach, beginning with metaphysics and epistemology, and ending in ethics and politics centered on the primacy of the individual. It's very anti-collectivist. That point on collectivism is important because it's perhaps the most pointed area of disagreement. Most Stoics would say that all “goods” must be considered for the whole of a community. Objectivists, or Ayn Rand, did not believe “the public” even exists. Her philosophical focus was on living, breathing things, and she rejected the notion that the disjointed “we” was a thing worthy of acknowledgement. I am alive. The “public” is not. I have interests. The public does not. Stoics don't buy this, especially not Ryan Holiday. Now, go enjoy the discussion and tell us what you thought in the comments below. New on YouTube from Geeky Stoics This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.geekystoics.com

Welcome to Episode 285 of Lucretius Today. This is a podcast dedicated to the poet Lucretius, who wrote "On The Nature of Things," the most complete presentation of Epicurean philosophy left to us from the ancient world. Each week we walk you through the Epicurean texts, and we discuss how Epicurean philosophy can apply to you today. If you find the Epicurean worldview attractive, we invite you to join us in the study of Epicurus at EpicureanFriends.com, where we discuss this and all of our podcast episodes. Today we continue in Part 2 - "Is Pain An Evil?." Last week we focused on Cicero's observations that we can prepare ourselves for bodily pain through exercise and training, a point in which Cicero did not pick out Epicurus as an opponent, and on which the ancient Epicureans would likely have agreed, at least to an extent. This week, Cicero tells us that he is going to leave to the Stoics to argue that pain is not evil, and he himself is going to proceed to talk about his opinion on how to deal with bodily pain, whether you are a soldier or a philosopher. We'll be picking up today with Section XVIII, and we'll see that Cicero focuses his attack on Epicurus' Principal Doctrine 4, and that will give us a great opportunity to explore that doctrine more closely. https://www.epicureanfriends.com/thread/4492-episode-285-the-significance-of-the-limits-of-pain/

The Stoics didn't pretend anxiety didn't exist—they faced it head-on. But instead of fearing uncertainty, they trained their minds to focus on what's within their power. In today's episode, we explore a modern take on the Stoic approach to anxiety, skipping the gloom and leaning into response-based confidence.Key Takeaways:✅ Anxiety stems from trying to control the uncontrollable✅ Stoicism teaches us to shift our focus inward—toward action, not outcome✅ You don't need to imagine disaster to be prepared✅ Visualize how you respond to challenge, not just success✅ Inner stability is built through presence, not prediction Make sure to subscribe and follow me for updates, tips, and more ways to stay in the flow! You can connect with me on:• Instagram: @flow_network__• YouTube: @flow_network__• TikTok: @theflownetwork• LinkedIn Newsletter: Daily Flow Stay tuned for more great content, and as always, stay in the flow!

No one ever became excellent by chance, the Stoics said…so if you want to be courageous and disciplined and ethical, you gotta do the work.

In this episode, I respond to a challenging and emotionally heavy listener question: how can Stoicism claim that only Virtue is Good and only Vice is Evil, even in the face of horrific acts like rape? This isn't a theoretical exercise in cruelty—it's a serious inquiry into Stoic ethical nuance. The heart of the issue is understanding what Stoicism means when it calls something "indifferent," and why it insists that moral value resides not in actions themselves, but in the moral character of the person choosing them. I explain the two definitions of indifferents in Stoicism: one refers to things that don't affect our own character (if we're not the actor), and the other refers to things whose moral value is undefined until context is applied. Through that lens, I show how horrific acts like rape are always unjust—and thus always vicious—not because of the physical actions involved, but because of the context in which they occur. This episode isn't easy listening, but it's essential for any serious student of Stoicism who wants to understand how Stoic ethics holds together even in the hardest moral cases. NO MEDITATION CITED THIS EPISODE THREE TAKEAWAYS — Stoicism distinguishes between actions and contexts; moral value is always determined by context. — Rape is not an indifferent in the moral sense; it is always an act of injustice, and thus always vicious. — Virtue and Vice remain the only true Good and Evil because context—not action—defines moral quality. Join the Practical Stoicism community, the Society of Stoics, at https://community.stoicismpod.com. Members enjoy ad-free episodes, weekly journaling prompts, a membership medallion, and access to regular live calls and discussions. Join today at https://community.stoicismpod.com. Buy my book: https://stoicismpod.com/book Read source material: https://stoicismpod.com/far Subscribe on YouTube: https://stoicismpod.com/youtube Follow me on Bluesky: https://stoicismpod.com/bluesky Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I share a personal story about nearly losing my temper on a train—a moment that reminded me, yet again, how far I am from sagehood and how important continuous attention (prosochē) is in Stoic practice. A long day in London, a rowdy group of teens, and a few minor annoyances were enough to push me near my breaking point. But in reflecting on the moment, I was reminded that even when we slip, our years of practice can still protect us from our worst impulses. I share this story not just to vent, but to illustrate three key ideas: how quickly we can be carried away by impressions when we stop paying attention; how Stoic practice can lower the intensity of our worst moments over time; and how no one is immune to slipping—not even those who teach the philosophy to others. This episode is a reminder that the Stoic path requires vigilance, humility, and honest self-reflection. NO MEDITATION CITED THIS EPISODE THREE TAKEAWAYS — The moment you stop paying attention, indifferents can run away with you. — Stoic training builds internal safeguards that make even your worst moments better than they once were. — Falling short is inevitable—but it's also instructive and necessary for progress. Join the Practical Stoicism community, the Society of Stoics, at https://community.stoicismpod.com. Members enjoy ad-free episodes, weekly journaling prompts, a membership medallion, and access to regular live calls and discussions. Join today at https://community.stoicismpod.com. Buy my book: https://stoicismpod.com/book Read source material: https://stoicismpod.com/far Subscribe on YouTube: https://stoicismpod.com/youtube Follow me on Bluesky: https://stoicismpod.com/bluesky Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There is no mention of what became of the Stoics' wives. We don't talk about the slights and the condescension they would have put up with as the ‘weaker sex.'

Born in 103, he was a philosopher from the Samaritan town of Shechem in Palestine, who had devoted his life to the search for truth, trying many philosophical schools and sources of human wisdom: the Stoics, the Peripatetics, the Pythagoreans and finally the Platonists. One day an old man (whose name and origin are unknown) appeared to him and spoke to him of the Prophets and Apostles who had learned of God not by their own wisdom, but by revelation of God Himself. He read the scriptures and was convinced of the truth of the Faith, but he would not be baptised or call himself a Christian until he had tested all the pagans' arguments against Christianity. To this end he traveled to Rome, where he engaged in debate at philosophical gatherings, impressing all with his wisdom. In Rome he also witnessed the martyrdom of Sts Ptolemy and Lucian; this moved him to write an Apologia for the Christian faith and the Christian people, which he gave to the Emperor Antoninus and the Senate. They were so moved by this document that the Emperor ordered that persecution of Christians should cease.   For the remainder of his life, Justin devoted all his skills to the proclamation of the Gospel and the defense of Christians. To the end of his life, wherever he preached Christ, he always wore his philosopher's garb. In addition to his Apologia, he wrote a number of other learned defenses of the faith.   Eventually he was imprisoned following the false accusations of Crescens, a jealous Cynic philosopher. He died (one source says by beheading, another by poison) in Rome in 167 under the Emperor Marcus Aurelius, successor to Antoninus.

The Stoics knew something we often forget: influence starts before you speak. It's in your energy, your posture, your presence. In today's PT. 2 episode with body language expert Vanessa Van Edwards, she breaks down how to project authentic warmth, gives Ryan tips for navigating social dynamics, and shares how to confidently master the art of saying no.Vanessa Van Edwards is the bestselling author of Captivate: The Science of Succeeding with People, translated into 17 languages, and Cues: Master the Secret Language of Charismatic Communication. More than 70 million people have watched her on YouTube and seen her viral TEDx London Talk.Vanessa is renowned for teaching science-backed people skills to audiences worldwide, including Harvard, SXSW, MIT, and Stanford. Through her engaging workshops and courses, Vanessa shares tangible skills to improve interpersonal communication and leadership. Her science-backed framework helps anyone communicate with confidence.Check out Vanessa' work on her website: scienceofpeople.com Follow Vanessa on Instagram and X: @VVanEdwards and on YouTube: @ScienceOfPeople

What is the intrinsic link between philosophical inquiry and personal development? How can academic thought and theory be applied well to practical living in the real world?Kieran Setiya is a professor of philosophy at MIT and also the author of a number of books, including Knowing Right From Wrong, Life Is Hard: How Philosophy Can Help Us Find Our Way, and Midlife: A Philosophical Guide.Greg and Kieran discuss how philosophy and self-help have diverged over time and the potential for their reintegration. Kieran explores the practical use of philosophical reflection in everyday life, the evolving view of philosophy from his early academic years to now, the impact of Aristotle's concept of the ideal life on contemporary thought, and the nature of midlife crises including his own. They also touch on topics like the value of choice, future bias, the role of suffering, and the integration of philosophy in early education. *unSILOed Podcast is produced by University FM.*Episode Quotes:Why Aristotle's ideal life isn't always the answer06:58: What am I going to do here and now, in the conditions I'm in—which are always, to some degree, imperfect—right now, maybe particularly challenging for many of us? And it's just not obvious at all. In fact, I think it's not true that the best way to answer the question, "What should I do in my problematic circumstances?" is, well, look at what an ideal life would be and just sort of aim towards that. And that just—it's both impractical and often very bad advice. It's like if someone said, "Well, you don't have any yeast; try to make some bread." You could think, "Well, what's the thing that's going to be most like a regular loaf of bread?" Or you might think, "Yeah, that's not the right thing to aim for here." There's some more dramatic pivot in how I'm going to try to make a kind of bread-like thing. And I think that's a good—a better—analogy for the situation we're in when we try to think about what to do here and now, when ideals like Aristotle's are not really viable.On regret, choice, and the value of missed opportunities21:21: Regret is a function of something that's not at all regrettable. Mainly the diversity of value.Detached wanting and the good enough life38:10: Stoics have this idea that virtue is the key thing for eudaimonia, and nothing else really matters for eudaimonia. But there are all these—what they call—preferred indifferents. So all the other stuff you might want, it's reasonable to want it, but you should want it in a kind of detached, "that would be a bonus" kind of way. And I think, while I'm not a Stoic and I don't think they draw that line in the right way, I think they're right that there is some kind of line here that has to do with sort of moderation and greed. In effect, thinking at a certain point: "If your life is good enough, you look at all the other things you could have," and the right attitude to have to them is something like, "Well, it'd be great if I had that. Sure." But the idea of being angry that I don't, or feeling like "this is unacceptable that I don't" is just not a virtuous — for want of a better word—it's not a reasonable, justifiable response.Show Links:Recommended Resources:AristotleEudaimoniaTelicityArthur SchopenhauerUtilitarianismPlatoJohn Stuart MillReasons and PersonsIris MurdochGuest Profile:KSetiya.netFaculty Profile at MITProfile on WikipediaProfile on PhilPeople.orgHis Work:Amazon Author PageLife Is Hard: How Philosophy Can Help Us Find Our WayMidlife: A Philosophical GuidePractical Knowledge: Selected EssaysKnowing Right From WrongInternal Reasons: Contemporary ReadingsReasons without RationalismSubstack Newsletter

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.The Via Stoica Podcast: Stoic Quotes SeriesIn the Stoic Quotes series, we take a look at what the Stoics said and uncover the wisdom they left behind. We look at the famous writings from Epictetus, Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, and more.In this episode, we explore a striking quote from Seneca's Letters to Lucilius, Letter 78:“There are times when even to live is an act of bravery.”Seneca reminds us that courage isn't only found on battlefields or in grand gestures. Sometimes, simply choosing to keep going, through illness, loss, or emotional struggle, is a deeply Stoic act. This letter was written while Seneca was ill himself, showing that resilience in daily life can be one of the greatest forms of bravery.If you're looking for more quotes like this one, visit viastoica.com, where you'll find hundreds of Stoic sayings with full references perfect for study, reflection, or sharing.Stoic Quotes CollectionSeneca QuotesEpictetus QuotesMarcus Aurelius QuotesSubscribe to the podcast for more short quote episodes and regular Tuesday recordings with deeper conversations and interviews. Leave a rating to help us reach more people drawn to living with wisdom and peace.Support the show

This week, I'm sharing some reflections on habits, a sweet moment with someone dear to my heart, and diving into the work of a true Maester of habits—someone whose insights have deeply shaped the way I approach change, consistency, and results.  Whether you're navigating your health journey, a big life project, or simply trying to find a rhythm that works, this episode is packed with heart and wisdom that I think you'll feel right away. So, grab your walking shoes, your journal, or your coffee, and let's spend a little time together thinking about what it means to build a system that actually works. And as always, I'll leave you with this week's quote to carry with you:“Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to become.” — James Clear Reference Clear, James. Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones. Avery, 2018. Holiday, Ryan. The Daily Stoic Podcast. Interview with James Clear: “James Clear on Getting 1% Better Daily With Stoicism.”  Clear, James. “James Clear on Getting 1% Better Daily With Stoicism.” The Daily Stoic Podcast, hosted by Ryan Holiday.  James Clear & Ryan Holiday Interview LinkYou can watch the insightful conversation between James Clear and Ryan Holiday on YouTube here: James Clear on Getting 1% Better Daily With StoicismLet's go, let's get it done. Get more information at: http://projectweightloss.org

The Stoics didn't just preach wisdom, they commanded attention. They knew how to lead with presence, not just ideas. In this episode, body language expert Vanessa Van Edwards joins Ryan to break down the science of real connection through a Stoic lens. She shares powerful, research-backed strategies to communicate with purpose, project warmth without losing authority, and instantly shift how others see and respond to you.Vanessa Van Edwards is the bestselling author of Captivate: The Science of Succeeding with People, translated into 17 languages, and Cues: Master the Secret Language of Charismatic Communication. More than 70 million people have watched her on YouTube and seen her viral TEDx London Talk.Vanessa is renowned for teaching science-backed people skills to audiences worldwide, including Harvard, SXSW, MIT, and Stanford. Through her engaging workshops and courses, Vanessa shares tangible skills to improve interpersonal communication and leadership. Her science-backed framework helps anyone communicate with confidence.Check out Vanessa' work on her website: scienceofpeople.com Follow Vanessa on Instagram and X: @VVanEdwards and on YouTube: @ScienceOfPeople

In this episode of Practical Stoicism, I unpack Meditations 4.4, where Marcus Aurelius reflects on the shared nature of human reason and its connection to a universal law. While Marcus builds a case for a kind of Stoic cosmopolitanism—where all rational beings are part of one commonwealth—I explore how this can inform our understanding of decentralized morality and Natural Law. I also contrast Stoic justice with religious or centralized legal frameworks, and explain why Stoicism's moral reasoning demands more personal responsibility and attentiveness to context. Later in the episode, I answer a listener question about standing for justice in a polarized world. I argue that recognizing our limitations is a crucial part of ethical living. We can't do everything, and pretending otherwise often causes more harm than good. Justice, from a Stoic perspective, begins with self-awareness and grows outward, rooted in reason and tempered by our roles and capacities. Meditations 4.4 If mind is common to us all, then also the reason, whereby we are reasoning beings, is common… and thence, from this common City, is derived our mind itself, our reason and our sense of law, or from what else? THREE TAKEAWAYS — Stoic justice is grounded in Natural Law, not dogma or divine command. — We must reason within our roles and limits, not pretend to be omnipotent. — Our shared reason connects us to a universal moral framework—but that framework still depends on individual effort and context. Join the Practical Stoicism community, the Society of Stoics, at https://community.stoicismpod.com. Members enjoy ad-free episodes, weekly journaling prompts, a membership medallion, and access to regular live calls and discussions. Join today at https://community.stoicismpod.com. Buy my book: https://stoicismpod.com/book Read source material: https://stoicismpod.com/far Subscribe on YouTube: https://stoicismpod.com/youtube Follow me on Bluesky: https://stoicismpod.com/bluesky Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode OverviewThis week, I consider the Stoic philosophy of Marcus Aurelius' Meditations and Epictetus' Enchiridion, part of Ted Gioia's Humanities List (link below!). Moving from Greek dramas to 2nd-century Roman Stoics, we first talk about the move from Greek lit to Roman, how the mindset and history will impact what we read. I cover Marcus Aurelius and Epictetus in depth, mention Admiral Stockdale (a modern Stoic) and end the episode with Rudyard Kipling's poem "If." Marcus Aurelius' MeditationsMeditations, the private journal of a Roman emperor, emphasizes self-focus, humility, and inner peace. Key takeaways include: Focus on your own mind and skills, not others' actions or opinions. Embrace nature to cultivate curiosity and appreciation for the world. Accept life's brevity and smallness, acting virtuously without expecting rewards. Find peace within, not in external escapes like vacation homes. Hold pleasures loosely to achieve contentment in the present moment.I note the surprising modernity of Aurelius' advice but question its contradictions, like the futility of life versus the call to virtue.Epictetus' EnchiridionEpictetus, a former slave turned philosopher, offers a direct, practical guide in The Enchiridion. I prefer Epictetus' straightforward style, finding it more relatable than Aurelius' introspections. Highlights include: Distinguish what harms the body from what affects the will—Epictetus' own lameness adds poignancy to this teaching. Know your limits and operate fully within them, committing wholeheartedly to your purpose. Avoid excess in speech, laughter, or indulgence, embracing simplicity.Consider the parallels to Biblical teachings like Colossians 3:17.Reflections and ChallengesI don't love Stoicism, as I think it sacrifices deep love and beauty. But there's no doubt that its ideals have a place in society--Stockdale and Kipling both reflect that. Translation struggles (George Long's arcane 1877 version versus Gregory Hays' readable Meditations) and time management issues due to travel delayed this week's reading. Classical music (Haydn's Symphonies 45, 94, and 104) enriched the experience, though I skipped the art.What's NextNext week, I explore Suetonius' Twelve Caesars with Mozart's symphonies and Italian art by Botticelli and Caravaggio. Subscribe to follow the journey! LINKSTed Gioia/The Honest Broker's 12-Month Immersive Humanities Course (paywalled!)My Amazon Book List (NOT an affiliate link)Haydn's Surprise SymphonyAdmiral James StockdaleSpencer Klavan (Modern Classicist)CONNECTTo read more of my writing, visit my Substack - https://www.cheryldrury.substack.com.Follow me on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cldrury/ LISTENSpotify -

Viktor Frankl once wrote, “Those who cannot find a deep sense of meaning distract themselves with pleasure.” It's a quote that resonates deeply within the Stoic tradition. The Stoics, much like Frankl, warned against the unmoderated pursuit of indulgence. Pleasure, entertainment, materialism—these things are not inherently wrong, but when used to fill a void of meaning, they become distractions. And distractions, by their nature, pull us away from our true purpose.Yet, there's an intriguing inversion of this quote—one that opens the door to deeper reflection. Chris Williamson, host of Modern Wisdom, proposed it: “Those who cannot find a deep sense of pleasure distract themselves with meaning.” At first glance, this seems to oppose Stoic thought. But when we dig deeper, we find that it holds an important truth for those of us on the path of self-improvement.This podcast is listener-supported; if you would like to support the Strong Stoic (as well as gain access to exclusive content), you can do so on Patreon or Substack:Patreon: www.patreon.com/brandontumblinSubstack: https://strongstoic.substack.com

Today's episode of Talk-It-Out Radio is preempted by special programming for KPFA's 2025 Spring Fund Drive. C.S. Soong speaks with Emersonian scholar and teacher Mark Matousek about his book Emerson, the Stoics, and Me: Timeless Wisdom for Living an Authentic Life. To support our mission and receive the book Emerson, the Stoics, and Me as a thank-you gift, please donate here or call (800) 439-5732 (800-HEY-KPFA).   The post Special Spring Fund Drive Programming: Mark Matousek on Emerson and Living an Authentic Life appeared first on KPFA.

The Via Stoica Podcast: Stoic Quotes SeriesIn the Stoic Quotes series, we take a look at what the Stoics said and uncover the wisdom they left behind. We look at the famous writings from Epictetus, Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, and more.In this episode, we reflect on a powerful line from Epictetus in The Discourses:“Enable my mind to adapt itself to whatever comes to pass.”This quote points to the heart of Stoic resilience — the ability to remain grounded and flexible no matter what life throws our way. Epictetus reminds us that peace is not found in control over events, but in the power to adjust our minds to them.If you're interested in more quotes like this one, visit viastoica.com, where you'll find hundreds of Stoic sayings, each fully referenced and ready to use for study or inspiration.Stoic Quotes CollectionEpictetus QuotesSeneca QuotesMarcus Aurelius QuotesSubscribe to the podcast for more short quote episodes and our regular Tuesday recordings with deeper conversations and interviews. A rating or review helps us reach more listeners interested in living with clarity and virtue.Support the show

PendingIn today's episode of Practical Stoicism, I explore Meditations 4.3, a passage that, while often celebrated, carries the potential for self-abuse if misunderstood. Marcus Aurelius reflects on the desire to escape daily life by retreating into nature—something he admits he feels compelled to do himself. But rather than criticize that impulse, I suggest we reframe it: needing a retreat isn't weakness, it's part of the process of becoming better. While a sage might retreat into their mind, we Prokoptôns might genuinely need to retreat physically from time to time—and that's not failure, it's reality. Growth doesn't happen on command. It takes time, rest, and humility. Meditations 4.3Men look for retreats for themselves, the country, the sea-shore, the hills; and you yourself, too, are peculiarly accustomed to feel the same want. Yet all this is very unlike a philosopher, when you may at any hour you please retreat into yourself... The Universe is change, life is opinion. THREE TAKEAWAYS — The urge to escape isn't a weakness, it's a sign of being human—and sometimes necessary for moral progress. — Perfection isn't the goal; striving for better while accepting your limitations is. — If seashore retreats help you grow, they're not indulgences—they're tools for becoming a better person. Join the Practical Stoicism community, the Society of Stoics, at https://community.stoicismpod.com. Members enjoy ad-free episodes, weekly journaling prompts, a membership medallion, and access to regular live calls and discussions. Join today at https://community.stoicismpod.com. Buy my book: https://stoicismpod.com/book Read source material: https://stoicismpod.com/far Subscribe on YouTube: https://stoicismpod.com/youtube Follow me on Bluesky: https://stoicismpod.com/bluesky Grab the app: https://qotd.tannercampbell.net/ Follow me on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/tannercampbell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There's something strangely reassuring about knowing people were wrestling with the similar issues we struggle with over 2,000 years ago — even if they wore togas and wrote with a chisel.   Donald Robertson is a cognitive-behavioral psychotherapist, acclaimed author of How to Think Like a Roman Emperor, and one of the world's leading voices on Stoicism. He's also the founder of the Plato's Academy Centre in Athens, and a founding member of the Modern Stoicism nonprofit.   On this pod, we talk about the wisdom literature and how it can help with emotional distress; specifically, the idea of Stoics as ancient psychotherapists. Donald explains how Stoicism wasn't just a philosophy of life, but also a clear system of psychotherapy in ancient Greek and Roman thought.   Some episode highlights: How shifting definitions shape our understanding of mental illness On the paradox of growth through adversity Struggle and transformation Experiential wisdom Fortune and the bitch goddess of success Stoicism as an ancient psychotherapy The philosophical roots of cognitive therapy On anger, and the art of self-mastery (Seneca, Galen) On Worry and rumination Marcus Aurelius  Stoicism's broader vision On the “view from above” and the liberation of perspective How time expansion mitigates worry The complex relationship of thoughts and emotions The core proposition of both Stoicism and CBT How complaining signals resistance to reality Acceptance and the dichotomy of control How to reconnect with what's essential in a noisy world   This isn't motivational fluff; it's a toolkit for anyone who's ever gotten tangled in their own head.    

The Stoics remind us that everything has its compensation…if we choose to see it, if we choose to welcome it.

They are who they are. Stop expecting them to be anything else.

Send us a textWelcome to The Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.The Stoic Quotes series.In the Stoic quotes series, we take a look at what the Stoics said and uncover the wisdom they left behind. We look at the famous writings from Epictetus, Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, and more.In this episode, we look at a quote by Marcus Aurelius from Meditations, Book 6.6:“The best revenge is not to be like that.”What do we do when someone wrongs us? For Marcus Aurelius, the answer isn't retaliation—it's transformation. In this reflection, we explore the Stoic view on revenge, how to rise above resentment, and what it means to preserve your character when others lose theirs.If you are looking for more quotes like this one, visit viastoica.com, where we have pages of hundreds of Stoic sayings. All are accompanied by their references so you can find them or use them in your own writings.

You might prove a point in an argument, but what will you lose in the process? In today's episode, Jefferson Fisher and Ryan talk about the art of handling arguments, drawing on wisdom from the Stoics, Jefferson's real-world legal practice, and Abraham Lincoln's legendary diplomacy. They discuss why being "right" isn't always worth the cost, how to stay grounded in the age of social media outrage, and the importance of knowing your “Alamo,” the hill you're actually willing to die on. Jefferson Fisher is one of the most respected voices on communication and arguments in the world. He is a Texas board certified personal injury attorney and law firm owner of Fisher Firm. Millions of people and some of the world's leading brands come to Jefferson for advice and practical strategies to communicate more effectively. Grab a signed copy of Jefferson's book, The Next Conversation: Argue Less, Talk More, at The Painted Porch! Follow Jefferson on Instagram and X @Jefferson_Fisher, on YouTube @JeffersonFisher and on TikTok @JustAskJefferson

Mark Matousek discusses his book “Emerson, the Stoics, and Me: Timeless Wisdom for Living an Authentic Life.” The post Fund Drive Special: Emerson and the Stoics appeared first on KPFA.

The world needs unbending, courageous people. It needs people who day to day do what's right, not what's expedient.

For the Stoics, riches weren't evil but attachment to them was. In Part 2 of their conversation, self-made billionaire Robert Rosenkranz and Ryan dive into the power of living within your means, mastering your mindset, and finding deeper purpose in your work. They discuss how your upbringing influences your relationship with money, why detachment leads to true freedom, and what really defines success.Robert Rosenkranz became a self-made billionaire as a pioneer in private equity, multi-strategy hedge funds, and the insurance industry. He launched the acclaimed NPR program, Open to Debate, funded Impetus Grants to extend human healthspans, and is founding an innovative cultural institution in New York to showcase immersive work at the intersection of visual art, sound, music, and technology.

In this episode of Intelligence Squared, financier, philanthropist, and author Robert Rosenkranz joins host Bill Browder for a thought-provoking conversation on how ancient wisdom can power modern achievement. Drawing from his latest book, The Stoic Capitalist, Rosenkranz explores how Stoic philosophy—rooted in ideas from 300 BC—can be applied to create a life of accomplishment, fulfillment, and impact in today's fast-paced world. ---- If you'd like to become a Member and get access to all our full ad free conversations, plus all of our Members-only content, just visit intelligencesquared.com/membership to find out more. For £4.99 per month you'll also receive: - Full-length and ad-free Intelligence Squared episodes, wherever you get your podcasts - Bonus Intelligence Squared podcasts, curated feeds and members exclusive series - 15% discount on livestreams and in-person tickets for all Intelligence Squared events  ...  Or Subscribe on Apple for £4.99: - Full-length and ad-free Intelligence Squared podcasts - Bonus Intelligence Squared podcasts, curated feeds and members exclusive series … Already a subscriber? Thank you for supporting our mission to foster honest debate and compelling conversations! Visit intelligencesquared.com to explore all your benefits including ad-free podcasts, exclusive bonus content and early access. … Subscribe to our newsletter here to hear about our latest events, discounts and much more. https://www.intelligencesquared.com/newsletter-signup/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If wealth meant fulfillment instead of finances, how rich would you be? In today's episode, Sahil Bloom, entrepreneur and author of The 5 Types of Wealth, joins Ryan to unpack how they balance ambition and fulfillment. They discuss the concept of having “enough”, their definitions of being wealthy, what we can learn from the Stoics about living a rich life, and more. Sahil Bloom is the owner of SRB Holdings, the managing partner of SRB Ventures, and author of The 5 Types of Wealth: A Transformative Guide to Design Your Dream Life. He holds a master's in public policy and a bachelor's in economics and sociology from Stanford University, where he was also a four-year member of the Stanford baseball team.You can follow Sahil on Instagram and X @SahilBloom Sign up for Sahil's newsletter here: https://www.sahilbloom.com/newsletter

In this episode I have a Trump-esque hair day, but, more importantly, we will close out Book 3 of Meditations by working through Meditation 3.16, which challenges us to recognize that there's nothing supernatural about goodness. Our bodies, impulses, and rational faculties are the same as those of the worst villains and even the simplest beasts. What sets the good person apart is their commitment to making Virtuous choices — embracing Fate, preserving their rational mind, and acting Justly. I offer a little tough love in this episode, reminding us all that our moral failings are our responsibility alone. Then, after the break, I answer a listener question: Should a Stoic rebel against a corrupt government if it can help a revolution? We explore how Stoics can participate in revolutions Justly, choosing roles that align with their nature and skills, always guided by reason rather than emotion. MEDITATION QUOTED:"Only this remains unique to the good person: that they love and embrace all that fate weaves for them. And also that they do not soil or disturb the divine presence seated in their breast, but instead work to preserve it. They do this by not speaking lies, and by acting justly rather than unjustly. And if anyone disbelieves that we live in these ways, we are not vexed by them nor do we turn against them, nor do we turn from our path toward the end of life — to which we must work to arrive pure, peaceful, comfortable with Fate, and ready to depart." — Meditations 3.16 THREE TAKEAWAYS: — We are not made good by nature, but by conscious choice. — Moral failings are not caused by external circumstances, but by voluntary decisions. — Stoic involvement in revolution must be rational, Just, and aligned with one's natural roles. LINKS: Go ad-free: https://stoicismpod.com/members Order my book: https://stoicismpod.com/book Source Text: https://stoicismpod.com/far Follow me on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/tannerocampbell.bsky.social Follow me on YouTube: https://stoicismpod.com/youtube Stoicism QOTD App: https://qotd.tannercampbell.net Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"The body should be treated more rigorously, so that it may not be disobedient to the mind." — Seneca In today's episode, Ryan sits down with Bonnie Tsui - author, swimmer, surfer - to unpack the deep connection between our muscles and mental resilience. They dive into everything from the intelligence of muscle memory, what the ancient Stoics knew about strength that we've forgotten, how exercise can actually bulk up your brain, and much more. Bonnie Tsui is a journalist, New York Times contributor, swimmer, surfer, and the author of American Chinatown: A People's History of Five Neighborhoods, Why We Swim, and now On Muscle.

Happy Earth Day! Let today be a reminder of how the Stoics looked to nature as a guide for living wisely and well.

This episode clears up confusion around Stoic indifferents, especially when it comes to fitness and health. I revisit last week's topic of context and explain why outcomes—like physical strength or general health—have nothing to do with Virtue. Drawing on Epictetus' concept of the hegemonikon, I explore how only our choices fall within the domain of moral responsibility. I also address the common misconception that Stoics should always pursue fitness and strength, showing that what is appropriate must be determined by context and our various roles. Finally, I simplify the concept of the Stoic God as the rational, ordering quality of the Universe that makes life possible and worth aligning with. “We do not choose the outcomes of our choices, thus outcomes of choices reflect nothing of our Virtue – because we did not AND CANNOT choose them.” Join the Practical Stoicism community, the Society of Stoics, at https://community.stoicismpod.com. Members enjoy ad-free episodes, weekly journaling prompts, a membership medallion, and access to regular live calls and discussions. Join today at https://community.stoicismpod.com. Buy my book: https://stoicismpod.com/book Read source material: https://stoicismpod.com/far Subscribe on YouTube: https://stoicismpod.com/youtube Follow me on Bluesky: https://stoicismpod.com/bluesky Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Stoics weren't just leaders and philosophers, they were also parents, spouses, and friends who experienced joy, who fell in love, who cherished the beauty of the world around them.

We must all see the pursuit of philosophy as both a mental and physical exercise. Mens sana in corpore sano—a strong mind in a strong body.

The best Stoics did not simply accept the awfulness of their times or participate in the corruption. So how did they fight it? How did they get revenge on the bad guys?