The Via Stoica Podcast

Send us a textWelcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on StoicismStoic Quotes 7In 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 that provokes it.”While Seneca does not say these exact words, this modern phrasing captures a central Stoic insight: that our emotional overreactions—especially anger—can do more lasting damage to us than the original insult or injury. In On Anger, Seneca carefully explains how unchecked rage distorts reason, harms judgment, and often leads us to regret the very actions we take when consumed by it.We unpack the original ideas behind this paraphrased quote and explore practical ways to apply this Stoic principle in everyday life. How can we cultivate restraint instead of retaliation? And why did the Stoics see anger as a form of temporary madness?If you are looking for more quotes like this one, visit viastoica.com, where we’ve collected hundreds of Stoic sayings, all referenced and ready for use in your personal study or writing:🔸 Seneca Quotes 🔸 Epictetus Quotes 🔸 Marcus Aurelius Quotes 🔸 All Stoic QuotesMake sure to subscribe to the podcast for more quote episodes and our regular Tuesday recordings and interviews. Leave a rating if you enjoy the show—it helps us reach more like-minded seekers.Support the show 🌐 ViaStoica.com 🧭 Stoic Life Coaching 👥 Meet the Coaches:https://viastoica.com/benny-voncken/https://viastoica.com/Brendan-hogle/https://viastoica.com/Brice-noble/ 🐦 Follow us on Twitter 📬 Reach us: info@viastoica.com🎙️ Produced by: badmic.comSupport 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

Send us a textThe 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 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 truly help us. This episode dives into what it means to define your purpose, why drifting aimlessly is dangerous, and how clarity of intent gives power to your actions. We reflect on how Stoic philosophy can help you set your internal compass, even when the world around you is in constant motion.You can read our article with some practice related to this quote here: https://viastoica.com/stoic-guidance-on-finding-direction/If you are looking for more quotes like this one, visit viastoica.com, where we’ve collected hundreds of Stoic sayings. All include references so you can explore them further or use them in your own writing and practice.Stoic Quotes CollectionSeneca QuotesEpictetus QuotesMarcus Aurelius QuotesMake sure to subscribe to the podcast for more quote episodes and our regular Tuesday recordings and interviews. If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating—it helps us reach more like-minded people.Support the showwww.ViaStoica.com Stoic Life Coaching Meet Benny Voncken Meet Brendan Hogle Meet Brice Noble Follow us on Twitter Reach us: info@viastoica.comProduced by: badmic.comSupport 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

Send us a textThe 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 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 loss in the same breath? Epictetus challenges us to practice presence by remembering impermanence—not as a cold exercise, but as a way to love more deeply. In this episode, we explore how this ancient idea can shift our modern experience of connection, attachment, and grief.If you are looking for more quotes like this one, visit viastoica.com, 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.https://viastoica.com/stoic-quotes/https://viastoica.com/seneca-quotes/https://viastoica.com/epictetus-quotes/https://viastoica.com/marcus-aurelius-quotes/Make sure to subscribe to the podcast for more quote episodes or our regular Tuesday recordings and interviews. Also leave a rating, as this helps us reach more like-minded people.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

Send us a textWelcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on StoicismWhat 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 our lives by external gains and start asking what is truly essential.Together, we unpack how the ancient Stoics like Seneca and Epictetus approached the question of desire, and how their insights can help us draw a clear line between what we want and what we need. We also offer practical tools for defining your own version of enough so you can stop chasing and start living with greater clarity, freedom, and peace of mind.If you feel like you are always on the move but never arriving, this conversation will help you pause, reflect, and begin charting your own Stoic roadmap to inner peace.Want help defining your enough and applying Stoicism to your own life? Book a free one-on-one coaching call with us here: https://viastoica.com/free-consultation/—If this episode resonated with you, take a moment to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. It helps others find the podcast and supports our mission to bring practical Stoicism to more people around the world.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

Send us a textWelcome 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 death – death and soon forgotten.)”What can we learn from this image of the fig tree and the inevitability of death? Marcus helps us confront the absurdity of holding onto resentment when people act according to their nature. Just as we don’t curse a fig tree for producing figs, we shouldn't waste our energy wishing others were different. And in the end, does it even matter? We are reminded of the shortness of life — and that we, and those who wrong us, will soon be gone and forgotten.This is a powerful practice in accepting human behavior, releasing judgment, and keeping a wider perspective on what really matters.If you are looking for more quotes like this one, visit viastoica.com — 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:https://viastoica.com/stoic-quotes/https://viastoica.com/seneca-quotes/https://viastoica.com/epictetus-quotes/https://viastoica.com/marcus-aurelius-quotes/Make sure to subscribe to the podcast for more quote episodes or our regular Tuesday recordings and interviews. Also leave a rating, as this helps us reach more like-minded people.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

Delve into the wisdom of Seneca as we explore how our imagination amplifies fears beyond reality. Discover practical strategies to differentiate between thought and fact. Gain insights into staying present and reducing anxiety about the unknown. This enlightening discussion will help you tackle life's challenges with Stoic clarity.

Discover the wisdom of Marcus Aurelius as he emphasizes the importance of self-reliance in his quote, 'To stand up straight, not straightened.' Unpack how inner strength and personal virtue lead to true contentment. Learn why relying on external factors can hinder your peace and happiness. This engaging discussion inspires listeners to take initiative and cultivate resilience in their lives.

Discover how initial impressions can be misleading as hosts explore Stoic philosophy's take on perception. Learn to assess sensory experiences like marks on clay, distinguishing between genuine needs and passing whims. The discussion emphasizes separating neutral impressions from subjective judgments to foster emotional balance. Dive into the importance of logic over emotion, and see how reflection can sharpen intuition and self-awareness. This journey through Stoicism reveals practical techniques for clarity and wisdom in everyday life.

Send us a textThe 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 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.”How can we live a peaceful and content life with everything happening around us? Most of the time this goes against our wants and desires, that's why this is a key lesson Epictetus wants to give to his students.If you are looking for more quotes like this one, visit viastoica.com, 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.https://viastoica.com/stoic-quotes/https://viastoica.com/seneca-quotes/https://viastoica.com/epictetus-quotes/https://viastoica.com/marcus-aurelius-quotes/Make sure to subscribe to the podcast for more quote episodes or our regular Tuesday recordings and interviews. Also leave a rating, as this helps us reach more like-minded people.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

Send us a textWelcome 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 philosophy practitioner who bridges the gap between ancient wisdom and modern living. Known online as "The Stoic Mom," she brings a fresh perspective to practical philosophy while balancing her roles as a mother of two daughters and an accomplished academic. With degrees from Harvard College and Stanford University, Meredith's work spans both technical and philosophical realms – from science and technology communications to exploring how Stoic principles can enhance parenting and personal growth.As a personal and professional development coach grounded in Stoic principles, Meredith helps clients navigate life's challenges with practical wisdom. Her writing has appeared in prestigious publications including Newsweek, The San Francisco Chronicle, and Stanford Business. Through her popular blog "The Stoic Mom" (now on Substack) and social media presence, she continues to build a community around mindful parenting and practical philosophy.Find Meredith's insights and join her philosophical journey on social media platforms @thestoicmom, where she regularly shares wisdom on applying Stoic principles to modern family life and personal development.Read our comprehensive book review on Beyond Stoicism here: https://viastoica.com/beyond-stoicism/Don't forget to subscribe to the Via Stoica Podcast wherever you get your podcasts and leave us a rating to help more people discover these valuable conversations about practical philosophy and modern Stoicism. Your support helps us continue bringing you thoughtful discussions with leading voices in the Stoic community.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