The Via Stoica Podcast
Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism that brings you the ancient wisdom of this philosophy to our modern-day lives. Walking the digital streets, Brice, Brendan, and Benny examine the ancient texts and tools through a current lens. The Stoics teach us to focus on the moment, and that’s how Stoicism should be approached. We have the foundation of the wise minds of the past and now it is our time to find the right application to this philosophy of life.In our weekly episodes, we will dissect a wide range of topics and apply the St...
83. Overcoming Overwhelm: Stoic Tactics for a Chaotic World
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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.
In this episode of The Via Stoica Podcast, Brendan and Benny explore how Stoic philosophy can help us overcome overwhelm and stay grounded in an increasingly chaotic world.
When everything feels out of control—news cycles, obligations, emotions—the Stoics remind us to focus on what is truly within our power. Drawing from the teachings of Epictetus, Seneca, and Marcus Aurelius, we discuss practical tactics to regain clarity, find calm, and act with intention rather than react out...
82. The Stoic Cure for Loneliness: Find peace in solitude
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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.
In this episode of The Via Stoica Podcast, Brice, Brendan, and Benny explore the Stoic cure for loneliness and how solitude can lead to true inner peace.
Drawing from the teachings of Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, and Seneca, we discuss how being alone, when approached with wisdom and intention, is not a burden but an opportunity for growth.
Instead of fearing isolation, the Stoics teach us to cultivate a strong inner life that no external circumstances...
Stoic Quote 7: "Anger, if not restrained, is frequently more hurtful to us than the injury that provokes it."
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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism
Stoic Quotes 7
In the Stoic quotes series, we take a look at what the Stoics said and uncover the wisdom they left behind. We explore famous works of writing from Epictetus, Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, and others.
In this episode, we turn to the Roman Stoic Seneca and examine a widely shared paraphrase based on his work On Anger, Book 1:
“Anger, if not restrained, is frequently more hurtful to us than the injury th...
81. The Stoic Guide to Communication: Say Less, Mean More
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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on Stoicism.
In this episode of The Via Stoica Podcast, Brice, Brendan, and Benny explore how the Stoics approached communication — with clarity, intention, and self-control.
Drawing from the teachings of Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, and Seneca, we unpack timeless Stoic principles that can transform the way you speak and listen. From dealing with misunderstandings to managing emotional conversations, Stoicism offers powerful tools to help you speak less, mean more, and avoid the regret that often comes with reactive words.
How do...
Stoic Quote 6: "If a man knows not to which port he sails, no wind is favorable."
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The Via Stoica Podcast: 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 explore the famous writings from Epictetus, Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, and more.
In this episode, we focus on a quote by Seneca from Letters to Lucilius, Letter 71.3:
“If a man knows not to which port he sails, no wind is favorable.”
Seneca reminds us that without a clear direction in life, no opportunity will...
80. The Stoic Art of Asking Questions: From Curiosity to Clarity
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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.
In this episode of The Via Stoica Podcast, Brice, Brendan, and Benny explore the Stoic art of asking better questions, questions that challenge assumptions, spark self-reflection, and lead to inner clarity. Drawing from the teachings of Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, and Seneca, we discuss how curiosity, when guided by reason and virtue, becomes a powerful tool for personal growth. Whether you’re stuck in a loop of overthinking or looking to deepen your practice, the quality of your questions might just shape th...
Stoic Quote 5: “What harm is there while you are kissing your child to say softly, ‘Tomorrow you will die’.”
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The Via Stoica Podcast: 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 reflect on a striking quote by Epictetus from The Discourses, Book 3, Chapter 24.87:
“What harm is there while you are kissing your child to say softly, ‘Tomorrow you will die’.”
What does it mean to hold both love and...
79. Define Your Enough: A Stoic Roadmap to Inner Peace
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What if the peace you are searching for does not come from adding more to your life, but from realizing how little you actually need?
In this episode, Brendan and Benny explore the Stoic concept of enough—a quiet but powerful idea that sits at the heart of contentment. We live in a culture that constantly tells us to do more, be more, and accumulate more. But the Stoics teach us that peace begins the moment we stop measuring ou...
Stoic Quote 4: That Sort of Person is Bound to Do That
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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.
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 fourth episode, we explore a striking reminder from Marcus Aurelius in Meditations, Book 4.6:
“That sort of person is bound to do that. You might as well resent a fig tree for secreting juice. (Anyway, before very long you’ll both be d...
78. Torn by Cognitive Dissonance: Stoic Tools for Inner Alignment
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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on Stoicism
What happens when your actions betray your values? When your thoughts and behavior no longer align, it creates a kind of internal friction that the Stoics understood deeply, what we now call cognitive dissonance.
In this episode, Brice, Brendan, and Benny explore how Stoic philosophy helps us recognize and resolve these inner contradictions. We look at the signs of dissonance, why it feels so unsettling, and what the Stoics teach about living in harmony with what you truly believe.<...
Stoic Quote 3: Suffer More Often in Imagination than in Reality
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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.
In the Stoic quotes series, we take a look at what the Stoics said and uncover the wisdom they left behind. We explore the famous writings of Epictetus, Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, and others.
In this episode, we turn to a powerful insight from Seneca, found in Moral Letters to Lucilius, Book 2, Letter 13.4:
“There are more things, Lucilius, likely to frighten us than there are to crush us; we suffer more often in imagination than in reality.”<...
77. How to Control Anger with Stoicism: Powerful Techniques for Lasting Calm
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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on Stoicism.
In this episode, Brice, Brendan, and Benny revisit one of Stoicism’s most practical challenges: anger. Discover powerful Stoic techniques to control your temper, remain calm under pressure, and master your emotions. Building on foundational Stoic wisdom, we explore deeper strategies to transform anger into clarity and resilience.
If you missed our first deep dive into this topic, make sure to check out Episode 14: "From Fury to Freedom: Stoic Insights on...
Stoic Quote 2: "To stand up straight, not straightened." Marcus Aurelius
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The Via Stoica Podcast: 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. In his Meditations, book 3.5.
"To stand up straight – not straightened."
Self-reliance is an important topic in Stoicism, and Marcus Aurelius often reminds himself of this fact in his personal journal. Without shutting ourselves of...
76. Mastering Impressions: The Stoic Path to Wisdom and Truth
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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on Stoicism.
How often do your first impressions deceive you? According to Stoic philosophy, our initial reactions to people, events, and challenges are not always reliable—but mastering them is key to living with wisdom and clarity. In this episode of The Via Stoica Podcast, hosts Brendan and Benny explore how Stoicism teaches us to examine our impressions before accepting them as truth.
Drawing from the insights of Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius, we’ll uncover practical Stoic techniques to filter emotions, ques...
Stoic Quotes 1: “Do not ask things to happen as you wish...”
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The Via Stoica Podcast: 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 first episode, we look at a quote by Epictetus. In the Handbook, the Enchiridion, the focus is on number 8:
“Do not ask things to happen as you wish, but wish them to happen as they do happen, and your life will go smoothly.”
...
75. The Stoic Guide to Compassion: Strength in Understanding
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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on Stoicism.
The Stoic Guide to Compassion: Strength in Understanding
Can Stoics be compassionate? In this episode, Brendan, Brice, and Benny explore how Stoic philosophy teaches us to practice true compassion—one rooted in wisdom, resilience, and understanding. They break down the difference between passive empathy and active Stoic compassion, share insights from Marcus Aurelius and Seneca, and offer practical strategies to help you cultivate kindness without losing your inner strength.
If you struggle with co...
74. The Stoic Art of Embracing Disappointment: Transform Setbacks into Strength
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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on Stoicism.
In this transformative episode of the Via Stoica Podcast, we explore the profound Stoic approach to life's disappointments. Drawing from the timeless wisdom of Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and Epictetus, discover how the ancient Stoics viewed setbacks not as obstacles, but as opportunities for profound personal growth.
Learn practical techniques to shift your perspective when faced with disappointment, and understand why resistance to what is only deepens our suffering. We'll explore real-world examples of how modern Stoics navigate career setbacks...
73. The Stoic Art of Transforming Expectations: Find Freedom in Acceptance
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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, The Podcast on Stoicism.
In this enlightening episode of Via Stoica, we delve into the Stoic perspective on expectations and their profound impact on our happiness. Through the wisdom of ancient Stoics like Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius, discover how our preconceptions shape our experience of reality and learn why transformation, rather than control, leads to true peace.
Explore practical Stoic techniques for becoming aware of your expectations and understanding their root causes. We'll examine how modern Stoics navigate workplace challenges, relationships, and personal...
72. A Stoic Conversation with Meredith Alexander Kunz: Wisdom from a Stoic Mom beyond Stoicism and parenting
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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on Stoicism.
Join us for an insightful conversation with Meredith Alexander Kunz, co-author of "Beyond Stoicism" alongside Massimo Pigliucci and Gregory Lopez. In this episode, we explore the intersection of Stoic philosophy and modern parenting, the vital role of women in Stoicism, and examine the current state of Stoic practice. Meredith shares her unique perspective on applying ancient wisdom to contemporary challenges, particularly in family life and personal development.
Meredith Alexander Kunz is a Silicon Valley-based writer, communications leader, and Stoic...
71. A Stoic Conversation with Massimo Pigliucci: From How to be a Stoic to Beyond Stoicism
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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.
Join us for a profound exploration of Stoic philosophy with Massimo Pigliucci, as we journey from his groundbreaking work "How to Be a Stoic" to his latest philosophical evolution in "Beyond Stoicism."
Massimo Pigliucci is a professor of philosophy at the City College of New York and a leading voice in modern Stoicism.
As a philosopher and scientist with a Ph.D. in Evolutionary Biology, he brings a unique perspective to ancient wisdom, making complex philosophical concepts...
70. The Stoic's Guide to Love: Ancient Teachings for Deeper Connections
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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on Stoicism.
In this special Valentine's Day episode, hosts Brendan and Benny explore the timeless intersection of Stoic philosophy and love. Discover how ancient wisdom can transform your approach to modern relationships, from building deeper connections to navigating the complexities of romantic partnerships.
Journey through the ancient Greek concepts of love - from Eros (passionate love) to Philia (deep friendship), Philautia (self-love), and Agape (unconditional love). Our hosts examine how these distinct forms of love align with Stoic principles and enrich...
69. Why Stoicism Matters Today: Timeless Tools for Modern Life
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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, The Podcast on Stoicism.
In this compelling episode, hosts Brendan and Benny explore why Stoic philosophy has become more relevant than ever in our fast-paced, digital world. Discover how ancient principles are helping tech leaders, entrepreneurs, and everyday people navigate modern challenges with greater resilience and clarity.
From managing digital overwhelm to building meaningful relationships in an increasingly virtual world, our hosts break down practical Stoic tools that you can apply immediately. Learn how figures like Marcus Aurelius faced similar challenges to our...
68. Stoicism and Decision Making: Ancient Solutions for Modern Choices
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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.
In this episode of Via Stoica, hosts Brice and Benny dive deep into the ancient Stoic art of decision-making. Discover how philosophers who lived 2,000 years ago can help you navigate today's complex choices with clarity and wisdom.
Learn powerful techniques from Marcus Aurelius on maintaining perspective during difficult decisions, Epictetus's framework for focusing only on what you can control, and Seneca's practical strategies for reducing decision fatigue.
Whether you're facing career changes, relationship challenges, or daily choices...
67. Stoicism and Physical Training: Building Mental and Physical Strength
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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on Stoicism.
In this powerful episode of Via Stoica, hosts Brice and Benny explore the profound connection between Stoic philosophy and physical training. Discover how ancient Roman and Greek philosophers approached bodily discipline as a pathway to mental fortitude and spiritual growth.
Delve into the Stoic perspective on exercising for the right reasons - not for vanity or social status, but for developing resilience, self-discipline, and character. Learn how Marcus Aurelius viewed physical training as a laboratory for practicing virtues and...
66. A Stoic Conversation with Michael McGill: A Deep Dive into Real Modern-day Stoicism
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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on Stoicism.
In this enlightening episode of The Via Stoica Podcast, we welcome Michael McGill, a passionate Stoic practitioner and advocate for living a life rooted in ancient wisdom. Michael dives deep into his personal journey with Stoicism, sharing how it helped him navigate life’s challenges and embrace adversity with strength and clarity.
As a real modern-day Stoic, Michael talks about how Stoicism helps him as a father and husband, a CIO, and life in general. We learn how he di...
65. Beyond Resolutions: Stoic Principles for Meaningful Year-End Reflection
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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.
In this insightful episode of the Via Stoica Podcast, Brendan and Benny challenge conventional New Year's wisdom by exploring the deeper Stoic approach to year-end reflection. Moving beyond simple resolutions, your hosts dive into ancient philosophical principles that can transform how you evaluate your past year and plan for the future.
Through their characteristic blend of humor and practical wisdom, Brendan and Benny break down the fundamental Stoic practices for meaningful self-assessment. Learn why traditional resolutions often fail, and...
64. Holiday Expectations vs Reality: Stoic Tools for Authentic Celebration
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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism
In this festive episode of the Via Stoica Podcast, hosts Benny and Brendan dive deep into the gap between holiday expectations and reality through the lens of ancient Stoic wisdom. Discover how the teachings of Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and Epictetus can transform your approach to the festive season, helping you find genuine joy amidst the chaos.
Drawing from their own experiences and Stoic principles, Benny and Brendan explore practical techniques for managing family dynamics, social obligations, and the pressure...
63. A Stoic Conversation with Eric Weiner: The Socrates Express and Ben & Me
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In this engaging episode of The Via Stoica Podcast, we sit down with Eric Weiner, celebrated author, philosopher, and former NPR foreign correspondent in Asia and the Middle East, to explore his fascinating take on philosophy and its role in modern life. Best known for his books The Socrates Express: In Search of Life Lessons from Dead Philosophers and The Geography of Bliss: One Grump’s Search for the Happiest Places in the World, Eric brings a unique blend of wit, depth, and storytelling to the conversation.
We dive into the in...
62. From Stress to Serenity: Stoic Techniques for Managing Pressure
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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.
In this episode of The Via Stoica Podcast, titled "From Stress to Serenity: Stoic Techniques for Managing Pressure," we explore how Stoic philosophy can help you stay composed in the face of life’s demands. Discover practical Stoic tools to manage stress, cultivate inner peace, and turn pressure into an opportunity for growth.
We’ll discuss time-tested strategies from Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and Epictetus to help you navigate challenges with clarity and resilience. Whether you’re dealing with w...
61. How to Invest Like a Stoic: Understand Wealth and Financial Freedom
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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.
What does it mean to invest like a Stoic? In this episode, we explore how timeless Stoic principles can guide your financial decisions, helping you build wealth and achieve financial freedom with clarity and purpose. Discover how detachment from emotions, disciplined action, and a focus on what truly matters can transform the way you approach investing.
We'll discuss the Stoic mindset for navigating market volatility, avoiding impulsive decisions, and staying resilient during economic uncertainties. Learn how key Stoic teachings...
60. The Stoic Reserve Clause: A Path to Calm and Steady Progress
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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.
In this episode, we explore the Stoic Reserve Clause—one of the most powerful but often overlooked aspects of Stoic philosophy. Learn how this concept helps you set goals without becoming overly attached to the outcome, allowing you to maintain peace of mind even in the face of uncertainty.
The Stoic Reserve Clause teaches us that while we have control over our actions, we don’t always have control over the results. By adopting this mindset, you can make stea...
59. A Stoic Guide to Suffering: Transforming Pain into Growth and Wisdom
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In this episode of The Via Stoica Podcast, we dive into one of life’s most challenging aspects: suffering. Guided by timeless Stoic wisdom, we’ll explore how to not only endure pain but use it as a powerful force for personal growth and deeper wisdom. Discover how Stoic principles can help transform your perspective on hardship, turning setbacks into opportunities for resilience and self-discovery.
We’ll break down key Stoic teachings from thinkers like Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and Epictetus, who viewed suffering as a natural part of life and a vital...
58. What is Sympatheia? Exploring the Stoic Idea of Universal Connection
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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.
In this episode, we dive into the Stoic concept of sympatheia—a powerful idea of universal connection that reminds us of our shared bond with all humanity and nature. Rooted in Stoic cosmopolitanism, sympatheia teaches us to see ourselves as part of a larger whole, fostering empathy, compassion, and a sense of purpose in a world that often feels fragmented.
Through practical examples and ancient wisdom, we explore how sympatheia can help you feel more connected, develop a global mi...
57. Donald J. Robertson on How to Think Like Socrates
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The Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism, welcomes back Donald J. Robertson, who joins us again. This time we're talking about Socrates, relating to his new book: How to Think Like Socrates.
Donald Robertson is a psychotherapist and an expert in CBT, he's an international speaker, and the author of multiple books, such as The Philosophy of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Stoicism and the Art of Happiness, How to Think Like a Roman Emperor, Verissimus, Marcus Aurelius The Stoic Emperor, and How to Think Like Socrates.
In this ep...
56. Stoicism vs. Ego: Practical Tools to Keep Your Ego in Balance
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In this episode of The Via Stoica Podcast, we explore one of the greatest challenges in life—managing the ego. Drawing on timeless Stoic teachings, we discuss how to recognize the subtle ways ego can distort your thinking and affect your decisions. Learn how Stoic principles like humility, self-awareness, and rational thinking can help you keep your ego in check and maintain inner peace.
We'll dive deep into practical tools from Stoic philosophers like Marcus Aurelius and Epictetus, showing how their wisdom can guide you to live a more grounded and fu...
55. Boost Your Motivation with Stoic Philosophy: Cultivate Consistent Growth
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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.
In this episode, we explore how Stoic philosophy can be a powerful tool to fuel your motivation and keep you on the path of consistent growth. Drawing on ancient Stoic teachings, we break down how focusing on what’s within your control, practicing discipline, and maintaining a sense of purpose can help you stay motivated, even when faced with setbacks or distractions.
Whether you're striving for progress in your career, fitness, or personal development, Stoicism offers practical strategies to ov...
54. Broicism vs. Stoicism: Beyond the Stereotypes to Real Stoic Practice
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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on Stoicism.
In this episode, we dive into the growing conversation around Broicism and how it contrasts with true Stoic philosophy. Broicism, often associated with a shallow form of toughness and hyper-masculinity, misses the essence of what Stoicism truly teaches.
We break down the core principles of Stoicism, such as cultivating inner peace, wisdom, and resilience, while also addressing how Broicism distorts these ideas. Stoicism is not about suppressing emotions or appearing strong on the outside—it's about mastering your inner wo...
53. Overcoming Anxiety with Stoicism: Mindset Shifts for Lasting Peace
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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on Stoicism.
In this episode, we explore how Stoicism can help you overcome anxiety and cultivate lasting peace. Titled "Overcoming Anxiety with Stoicism: Mindset Shifts for Lasting Peace," we dive deep into practical Stoic strategies that transform your mindset in the face of worry, fear, and uncertainty. Learn how to navigate life’s challenges with calm, clarity, and inner strength by applying ancient Stoic wisdom to modern-day anxiety.
We’ll discuss key Stoic principles, such as the dichotomy of cont...
52. Stoic Ethics with Brittany Polat and Christopher Gill: Bringing Morality Back
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Welcome to The Via Stoica Podcast.
On this special episode, number 52, we are joined by two amazing guests: Brittany Polat and Christopher Gill. Two impactful voices in the Modern Stoic world.
Christopher Gill is an Emeritus Professor of Ancient Thought at the University of Exeter, UK, following earlier appointments at Yale, Bristol, and Aberystwyth Universities. He has published many books and articles on ancient philosophy, especially Stoicism. He is one of the founders of Modernstoicism.com
Brittany Polat holds a PhD in Applied Linguistics but is currently...
51. Stoic Forgiveness: Healing, Letting Go, and Finding Strength in Adversity
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In this episode of The Via Stoica Podcast, we explore the transformative power of Stoic forgiveness. Forgiveness is not about forgetting or excusing wrongs but about freeing yourself from the emotional burdens of anger, resentment, and pain. Stoicism offers timeless wisdom on how to heal from past wounds, let go of grudges, and find strength in adversity.
We’ll dive into how Stoic thinkers like Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and Epictetus viewed forgiveness. Their teachings offer a clear path to emotional resilience, helping us release negative emotions that weigh us down. By ap...
