
The What Is Stoicism? Podcast
Using Stoic philosophy to help you (and me): LEARN from the past, PLAN for the future, LIVE in the present. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Latest episodes

Jul 16, 2025 • 5min
Controlling What You Can Gives You Wings
In this episode, we explore the timeless Stoic lesson that true freedom lies in accepting what we can’t control—echoed powerfully in the life and art of Frida Kahlo.Drawing parallels between Epictetus’s teachings and Kahlo’s indomitable spirit, we see how even when life confines our bodies, our will can still soar.👇 👇 👇📻 FOR MORE STOIC AUDIO CONTENTCheck out one of my latest daily Micro Morning Meditations here on Substack:☀️ Micro Morning Meditation: The Quiet Wisdom Of Animalshttps://whatisstoicism.substack.com/p/micro-morning-meditation-the-quiet Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 9, 2025 • 6min
You Can Neither Re-Live Nor Pre-Live
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.👇 👇 👇📻 FOR MORE STOIC AUDIO CONTENTCheck out one of my latest daily Micro Morning Meditations here on Substack:☀️ Micro Morning Meditation: How To Always Get What You Desirehttps://whatisstoicism.substack.com/p/micro-morning-meditation-how-to-always Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 2, 2025 • 5min
Defending Ourselves Against Our Enemies
In this episode, we look at what Stoicism has to say about resisting the urge for revenge and reclaiming our inner freedom.With help from Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, and Diogenes, we examine why retaliation degrades us and how self-mastery is a better path to strength. Instead of reacting impulsively to harm or misfortune, we can learn to respond with integrity, turning adversity into opportunities to build character.👇 👇 👇📻 FOR MORE STOIC AUDIO CONTENTCheck out one of my latest daily Micro Morning Meditations here on Substack:☀️ Micro Morning Meditation: How To Always Get What You Desirehttps://whatisstoicism.substack.com/p/micro-morning-meditation-how-to-always Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 25, 2025 • 6min
So It Goes
In this episode, we dig into the meaning behind Kurt Vonnegut’s famous line “so it goes” and how it’s more than just a catchphrase.Drawing from Slaughterhouse-Five, Stoic ideas, and the book The Courage to Be Disliked, we talk about how accepting what we can’t control can actually help us take better control of what we can.👇 👇 👇📻 FOR MORE STOIC AUDIO CONTENTCheck out one of my latest daily Micro Morning Meditations here on Substack:☀️ Micro Morning Meditation: How To Always Get What You Desirehttps://whatisstoicism.substack.com/p/micro-morning-meditation-how-to-always Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 18, 2025 • 5min
Strong Enough To Ask For Help
Discover the inspiring life of Epictetus, a Stoic philosopher who rose from slavery to find inner strength. The discussion highlights the balance between independence and interdependence, illustrating how Stoicism encourages support from others. Emphasizing the importance of open communication and vulnerability, the podcast reveals that true resilience not only comes from within but also flourishes in connection with our community.

Jun 11, 2025 • 7min
What Is Stoicism?
Dive into the world of Stoicism with a comprehensive overview that unpacks its origins and key principles. Discover how to apply Stoic virtues in daily life for personal growth. Explore the essence of this philosophy, focusing on conquering destructive emotions like rage and envy. It emphasizes control and acceptance as tools for achieving clarity. Most importantly, the discussion reveals how accessible Stoicism is for everyone seeking wisdom and emotional integrity.

Jun 4, 2025 • 5min
Stoic Tools To Help You Wake Up
Dive into the intriguing world of dreams and reality as the hosts examine how illusions can shape our fears. Discover insights from Marcus Aurelius and Anne Lamott on the power of journaling and Stoic reflection. Learn how pre-meditatio malorum can prepare you for life's challenges and deepen your emotional understanding. This exploration will inspire you to wake up to clarity and purpose in your daily life.

May 28, 2025 • 6min
How to Get Out of Your Own Way
Delve into the art of perception and how it influences our emotional landscape. Discover the profound insights of Epictetus and the wisdom of Nan Shepherd as they reveal how reclaiming control over our judgments can liberate us from unnecessary suffering. Journey from childhood envy to a richer, grounded existence by shifting focus from external validation to internal awareness. This insightful discussion encourages embracing the beauty of life beyond societal pressures.

May 21, 2025 • 5min
Building Inner Walls Against Outer Storms
In this episode, we look at the Stoic principle of focusing only on what lies within our control, using the weather as a vivid metaphor for life’s unpredictable externals.Drawing on insights from George Gissing, Epictetus, Seneca, Mac Miller, and even Derren Brown, we reflect on how to maintain inner peace in a world that constantly tempts and tests us.👇 👇 👇📻 FOR MORE STOIC AUDIO CONTENTCheck out one of my latest daily Micro Morning Meditations here on Substack:Micro Morning Meditation: It Might Have Been Otherwisehttps://whatisstoicism.substack.com/p/micro-morning-meditation-it-might Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 14, 2025 • 5min
Stoic Actions for Anxious Minds
This episode explores how anxiety can quietly hold us back from the things that matter most—and how Stoic wisdom offers a path through it.Drawing on insights from Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius, we look at how changing our judgments, not just our circumstances, empowers us to act despite fear and grow stronger in the process.👇 👇 👇📻 FOR MORE STOIC AUDIO CONTENTCheck out one of my latest daily Micro Morning Meditations here on Substack:Micro Morning Meditation: Is It The Thought That Counts?https://whatisstoicism.substack.com/p/micro-morning-meditation-is-it-the Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.