x

75% of people globally want unbiased news (Pew Research) but are concerned they're not getting that.

Get balanced coverage with Symby. See how stories are covered across diverse outlets and spot when one side covers a story the other skips.

PODCAST

Practical Stoicism

Evergreen Podcasts

Stoicism is the pursuit of Virtue (Aretê), which was defined by the Ancient Greeks as "the knowledge of how to live excellently," Stoicism is a holistic life philosophy meant to guide us towards the attainment of this knowledge through the development of our character. While many other Stoicism podcasts focus on explaining Ancient Stoicism in an academic or historical context, Practical Stoicism strives to port the ancient wisdom of this 2300-plus-year-old Greek Philosophy into contemporary times to

society & culture philosophy

All Episodes

20:39

You Might Suck, But You Don't Have To (Meditation 3.16)

Practical Stoicism ·

2025/04/29

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

en

29:08

Stoic Role Ethics and The Limits of Health Worship

Practical Stoicism ·

2025/04/22

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

en

2:09

Hop for the Hospice Fundraiser

Practical Stoicism ·

2025/04/16

Donate here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/caileanThis spring, Cailean is putting on his bunny ears and joining his nursery friends in a very special hopping challenge—Hop for Hospice—to help raise vital funds for Thames Hospice. Cailean is just one year old, but even at this young age, he’s taking his first steps (or hops!) toward making a difference in the lives of others. With your support, every bounce, wiggle, and hop he takes will help ensure that Thames Hospice can continue providing

en

27:11

Context is Everything (Meditations 3.15)

Practical Stoicism ·

2025/04/15

In today’s episode, I take a close look at Meditations 3.15, which reads: “They have not learnt to know the manifold significance of theft, of sowing, of buying, resting, seeing what ought to be done. This depends not on the bodily eye but on another kind of vision.” Marcus is pointing us toward a crucial insight: context matters deeply. Nothing, not even theft or sowing, is always straightforwardly good or bad. I explore how Stoicism teaches us to see beyond the surface of actions and recognize

en

13:58

When Rest & Relaxation Become Vice (Mediation 3.14)

Practical Stoicism ·

2025/04/08

This week, I take a closer look at Meditations 3.14, where Marcus Aurelius encourages us not to “wander from our path any longer.” It’s a meditation you’ve probably heard before, and while some translations simplify it to “put away your books,” I find that framing a little misleading. Books, much like hobbies or relaxation activities, have their place. They support our well-being and our pursuit of Virtue—when used in the right way.In this episode, I unpack what Marcus really means. I talk about

en

13:38

Are You Ready to Act Justly? (Meditations 3.13)

Practical Stoicism ·

2025/04/01

In this episode, I explore Meditations 3.13, where Marcus Aurelius reminds us to keep the principles of Stoicism as close at hand as a doctor keeps their instruments. Our “scalpel” is our rational faculty—our ability to discern what is right and act justly, even when it's hard. When we stay ready in this way, we fulfill our role as rational agents within the whole of Nature.We also dig into what it means to be part of a rational and interconnected universe. Marcus urges us to treat others justly

en

17:46

Is Inner Peace the Goal of Stoicism? (Meditation 3.12)

Practical Stoicism ·

2025/03/25

In this episode, I walk through Meditations 3.12, where Marcus Aurelius claims that if we pursue Virtue with sincerity and without distraction, we will live “the blessed life.” But what does that really mean in Stoic terms? We examine what “blessed” refers to (spoiler: it’s Eudaimonia, or inner peace) and ask whether the Stoics pursued Virtue for its own sake or for the sake of that peace.I argue that Virtue leads to inner peace by removing destructive emotions like anger, fear, shame, and

en

32:37

Understanding Impressions in Stoicism (Meditations 3.11)

Practical Stoicism ·

2025/03/18

In this episode, we explore Meditations 3.11 and its profound insights into how we process and assent to impressions. The Stoics believed that our initial reactions to external events—our impressions—are often flawed, and it’s our responsibility to critically examine them before accepting them as truth. This practice is essential for making rational, virtuous decisions instead of reacting emotionally or impulsively.Marcus Aurelius reminds us that true greatness comes from methodically and

en

18:36

Feed Drop: We spend 98% of what we make—Where is it...

Practical Stoicism ·

2025/03/18

Hey everyone, Tanner here. Today I'm going to share something with you that's a little bit different. This is not an episode. This is what's called a feed drop. A feed drop is when I feature a podcast I think you might like and then you listen to a little bit of it and if you like it you go find out more about it on your own. And this podcast is called Money for Couples. If you have ever found yourself wondering as a couple, where is all our money going? You're definitely not alone. That is

en

23:04

The Illusion of Free Will? (Meditations 3.10)

Practical Stoicism ·

2025/03/11

In this episode, I explore Meditations 3.10, where Marcus Aurelius reminds himself—and us—that we only ever live in the present moment. He urges us to remember three things: life is short, the space we occupy is small, and fame is fleeting. But why does he emphasize this? Because knowing who we are and becoming the best version of ourselves is what truly matters. This discussion dives into the Stoic understanding of determinism and free will. I explore how our choices shape our character over time,

en

29:01

How Environment Shapes Moral Progress (Meditation 3.9)

Practical Stoicism ·

2025/03/04

This episode explores Meditations 3.9, where Marcus Aurelius urges us to revere our rational faculty. In Stoicism, rationality is our greatest gift—it’s the tool that allows us to pursue Virtue, shape our moral character, and ultimately live in accordance with Nature. But how do we cultivate this faculty, especially when our environment doesn’t support moral growth?I discuss how we are shaped by our surroundings, often without realizing it. If we’re immersed in Stoic teachings, the path to moral

en

21:30

What is Stoicism, really?

Practical Stoicism ·

2025/02/25

Modern interpretations of Stoicism are often wildly inaccurate, reducing the philosophy to a life hack for suppressing emotions, a tool for productivity-obsessed entrepreneurs, or a justification for toxic masculinity. But do any of these portrayals hold up under scrutiny? In this episode, I break down these misconceptions by turning to the words of ancient Stoic thinkers—Musonius Rufus, Zeno of Citium, and others—who show us that Stoicism is far more profound and ethical than pop culture

en

20:18

Why Stoicism Teaches Us to Be Prepared for Death...

Practical Stoicism ·

2025/02/18

In this episode, I explore Meditations 3.8 and the idea of preparing for death—not as a morbid fascination, but as a necessary step toward living justly and without fear. Marcus Aurelius describes the Stoic sage as someone unshaken by fate, someone who meets the end of life without hesitation or regret. But how does this apply to the rest of us, who are still progressing in our practice?“In the understanding of a man of chastened and purified spirit you will find, no trace of festering wound, no

en

18:24

The Commitment To A Moral Life (Meditations 3.7)

Practical Stoicism ·

2025/02/11

In this episode, I explore Meditations 3.7, where Marcus Aurelius reminds us that nothing should take priority over Virtue. Many misunderstand Stoicism as a philosophy of detachment, resilience, and isolation, but in truth, it is profoundly prosocial. Being a Stoic means fulfilling our roles within the broader human community, not retreating from it. I challenge the popular but misguided idea of Stoicism as a philosophy for lone survivalists, demonstrating how its core teachings—from Zeno to

en

20:49

Stoicism Isn’t Toxic, But Misunderstanding It Can Be...

Practical Stoicism ·

2025/02/04

In this episode, I explore Meditations 3.6 and the challenge Marcus Aurelius presents to those seeking the Good life: is there anything higher than justice, truth, temperance, and fortitude? If we find something greater, we should pursue it wholeheartedly. But if not, then we must commit ourselves fully to Virtue. I also address the common misconception that Stoicism promotes emotional repression or toxic perfectionism. True Stoicism is about disciplined reasoning, self-improvement, and moral

en

11:00

A Stoic’s Guide to Action (Meditations 3.5)

Practical Stoicism ·

2025/01/28

In this episode, Tanner explores Meditations 3.5 by Marcus Aurelius, diving into its core teachings about Stoic ethics and virtuous living. The meditation emphasizes acting with integrity, examining one’s motives, and focusing on moral reasoning rather than outcomes. Tanner reflects on Marcus’s invocation of the “God within” as a call to internalize virtue and gratitude, encouraging listeners to appreciate life, even during adversity. The discussion underscores the Stoic principle of striving for

en

14:04

Are Humans Naturally Selfish? A Stoic Exploration

Practical Stoicism ·

2025/01/21

In this episode, Tanner answers a listener question from Wyatt Bennett: “What does Stoicism say about human nature? Are humans naturally selfish?” Exploring this through the Stoic concept of Oikeiôsis and the Circles of Concern, Tanner explains how our understanding of responsibilities expands as we mature. Starting from self-concern in infancy, we grow to care for family, friends, community, humanity, and even the planet. Tanner challenges Thomas Hobbes’ pessimistic view of human nature, offering a

en

19:08

Choosing Your Counsel and Thoughts Wisely...

Practical Stoicism ·

2025/01/14

In this episode, Tanner explores the rich insights of Meditations 3.4 by Marcus Aurelius, focusing on four main Stoic principles. Marcus warns against wasting time on unnecessary concerns about others, emphasizing opportunity cost and the importance of focusing on appropriate external and internal matters. Tanner also discusses the practice of habituating virtuous thoughts—those we would not be ashamed to express openly—as a step toward moral excellence. The meditation highlights the innate

en

17:00

Death and the Choice to Live Wisely (Meditations 3.3)

Practical Stoicism ·

2025/01/07

In this episode, I reflect on Meditation 3.3 from Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations, exploring its central themes: the inevitability of death, the futility of fearing it, and the Stoic imperative to live well while we can. Marcus reminds us that even the most accomplished and revered figures—be they healers, conquerors, or philosophers—ultimately succumb to mortality. Their stories serve as a humbling reminder of our shared fate and an encouragement to prioritize virtue over fame, power, or fear.Key

en

10:00

The Beauty on Nature's Processes (Meditations 3.2)

Practical Stoicism ·

2024/12/24

In this episode, I discuss Meditation 3.2 from Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations. This meditation reflects on the inherent beauty in all things that align with Nature, even when they might seem imperfect or undesirable to us at first glance. Marcus uses examples such as cracks on a freshly baked loaf of bread or the ripe, oozing fig to illustrate how side effects of Nature’s processes carry their own grace and fascination. I explore two key takeaways: I. Understanding Natural Processes – By studying and

en

292 results

Similar Podcasts

The Daily Horoscope

The Daily Horoscope

The Michael Decon Program

Michael Decon

Kalimera Koveos

Andrea Koveos

The Documentary Podcast

BBC World Service

Smarter leben

DER SPIEGEL