The What Is Stoicism? Podcast

In this discussion, the spotlight shines on Julius Canus, a philosopher celebrated for his unwavering calm in adversity, as highlighted in Seneca's essay, 'On Tranquility of Mind.' The podcast delves into Canus's extraordinary ability to maintain tranquility, even amidst death. Listeners are encouraged by his resilience, illustrating that if Canus can remain serene under extreme stress, we, too, can find peace in our everyday challenges. This exploration of Stoic philosophy offers valuable insights into acceptance and inner strength.

Cleanthes, a Greek Stoic philosopher and former boxer, shares his remarkable journey from the ring to the realm of philosophy. Despite facing poverty, he worked nights as a water-carrier to support his studies. His life exemplifies humility and the values of simple living. The discussion dives into poignant anecdotes that reflect his resilience, emphasizing how his humble beginnings shaped his Stoic legacy. Listeners will gain inspiring insights into perseverance and the essence of true wisdom.

In this enlightening discussion, Paconius Agrippinus, a philosopher celebrated by Epictetus, shares powerful anecdotes from his life that embody Stoic resilience. Listeners explore how Agrippinus faced Emperor Tiberius's challenges with unwavering virtue. The conversation also highlights his dialogue with Florus, emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself amid societal pressures, including the allure of Emperor Nero's spectacles. Through these stories, the essence of courage and moral integrity in Stoicism takes center stage.

Dive into the poignant lessons from Seneca's letter to Marcia, emphasizing personalized comfort in grief. Explore a tale of two mothers, contrasting Octavia's endless sorrow with Livia's celebration of memory, prompting reflection on different mourning responses. Discover the art of embracing joy amid grief, advocating for a balanced expression of sorrow while cherishing memories with virtue and gratitude. These insights offer timeless wisdom on resilience in the face of life's challenges.

Discover how a golden retriever named Tina embodies resilience and positivity, transforming neglect into a lesson for us all. Explore the intriguing dialogue about dogs as true philosophers, showcasing their innate wisdom in distinguishing friends and foes. This discussion encourages a reflection on simplicity and gratitude, highlighting how animals can teach profound life lessons.

A reading of the fourth book of Marcus Aurelius's twelve-book work.📻 FOR MORE STOIC AUDIO + EMAIL CONTENTCheck out What Is Stoicism? on Substack:https://whatisstoicism.substack.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

☀️ Micro Morning Meditations: https://whatisstoicism.substack.com/subscribe----"For the morning is the youth of the day, when everything is bright, fresh, and easy of attainment; we feel strong then, and all our faculties are completely at our disposal.Do not shorten the morning by getting up late, or waste it in unworthy occupations or in talk; look upon it as the quintessence of life, as to a certain extent sacred."—Schopenhauer, Our Relation to Ourselves Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Explore the Stoic idea of aligning life with the natural order of the universe. Discover how our capacity for reason plays a crucial role in achieving virtue and fulfillment. Learn practical exercises to enhance critical thinking and decision-making, promoting a mindful approach to everyday challenges. This insightful discussion offers ways to integrate Stoicism into your daily routine and truly live in accordance with nature.

Desire can cloud our perception, making us feel discontented by focusing on what we lack. Drawing on Italo Calvino's 'Invisible Cities,' the discussion highlights the importance of recognizing our current blessings. Chasing external possessions often leads to dissatisfaction, so embracing a Stoic mindset can guide us toward self-mastery. This approach encourages a reevaluation of our desires, ultimately fostering true contentment and a more meaningful existence.

Dive into the concept of the Stoic Sage as a beacon of virtue and personal growth. Discover how historical figures like Cato and Marcus Aurelius serve as role models for embodying Stoic principles. The discussion emphasizes striving for progress rather than perfection, encouraging practical application of ancient wisdom in modern life. Reflect on how to navigate challenges with the guidance of these Stoic icons and enhance your ethical development.