The Strong Stoic Podcast

Life is full of moments when we’re faced with difficult decisions or challenges, and in those moments, we search for something to give us clarity—a guiding principle or phrase that resonates deeply. It’s why many people turn to Stoic philosophy. The works of Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, and Seneca offer timeless wisdom condensed into quotes that help us navigate life’s complexities. But these aren’t just abstract ideas; they’re practical tools for gaining perspective when we need it most.One of the ideas that’s been forming in my mind over time—through reflection on Stoic teachings and personal experience—is this simple phrase:“I do what I think is right, and that’s enough.”It’s a personal mantra I’ve come to rely on. Though rooted in Stoic philosophy, it’s my own spin on ancient ideas about virtue, agency, and inner peace. Let’s explore what it means, why it’s important, and how it can help you live a life aligned with your values.The Strong Stoic Podcast is a raw, honest, and unapologetically deep podcast about philosophy and self-improvement. Join your host, Brandon Tumblin, as he breaks down a wide variety of complex and difficult topics aimed at provoking thought and opening your perspective.This podcast is listener-supported; if you would like to support the Strong Stoic (as well as gain access to exclusive content), you can do so on Patreon or Substack:Patreon: www.patreon.com/brandontumblinSubstack: https://strongstoic.substack.com

“The courage to be happy also includes the courage to be disliked. When you choose to live authentically, you inevitably invite criticism.” — The Courage to Be DislikedIn today’s social media-driven world, the desire to be liked by everyone can become an overwhelming force that shapes our thoughts, actions, and identity. But The Courage to Be Disliked by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga argues that true freedom and happiness come not from being liked but from living authentically — even if it means facing rejection. The book, based on the psychological theories of Alfred Adler, teaches readers how to break free from the chains of external validation and embrace a life rooted in personal values.This episode explores the idea that living a meaningful life requires courage — specifically, the courage to be disliked.The Strong Stoic Podcast is a raw, honest, and unapologetically deep podcast about philosophy and self-improvement. Join your host, Brandon Tumblin, as he breaks down a wide variety of complex and difficult topics aimed at provoking thought and opening your perspective.This podcast is listener-supported; if you would like to support the Strong Stoic (as well as gain access to exclusive content), you can do so on Patreon or Substack:Patreon: www.patreon.com/brandontumblinSubstack: https://strongstoic.substack.com

Life is filled with challenges that often feel like punishments: setbacks, pain, and suffering that can seem unfair or overwhelming. Yet, the quote “What punishments from God are not also gifts?” invites us to reframe how we see these difficulties. Whether attributed to divine will or simply the natural course of life, hardships are opportunities for growth, self-awareness, and transformation.The Strong Stoic Podcast is a raw, honest, and unapologetically deep podcast about philosophy and self-improvement. Join your host, Brandon Tumblin, as he breaks down a wide variety of complex and difficult topics aimed at provoking thought and opening your perspective.This podcast is listener-supported; if you would like to support the Strong Stoic (as well as gain access to exclusive content), you can do so on Patreon or Substack:Patreon: www.patreon.com/brandontumblinSubstack: https://strongstoic.substack.com

Merry Christmas, everyone! This time of year is special, not just for the joy of holiday cheer, family gatherings, and festive feasts, but also for the opportunity it presents: a chance to reset.For many of us, Christmas marks the beginning of a unique stretch of time—those magical days between Christmas and New Year’s.It’s a period where routines blur, responsibilities pause, and indulgence is almost a requirement. While it’s easy to get lost in the rhythm of holiday movies, naps, and too many treats, there’s a deeper value to be found in this pause—a chance to step off the treadmill of life and reset intentionally.The Strong Stoic Podcast is a raw, honest, and unapologetically deep podcast about philosophy and self-improvement. Join your host, Brandon Tumblin, as he breaks down a wide variety of complex and difficult topics aimed at provoking thought and opening your perspective.This podcast is listener-supported; if you would like to support the Strong Stoic (as well as gain access to exclusive content), you can do so on Patreon or Substack:Patreon: www.patreon.com/brandontumblinSubstack: https://strongstoic.substack.com

The Stoic philosophy, while often revered for its emphasis on self-discipline and resilience, also places great importance on being useful to others. As Marcus Aurelius reminds us in Meditations:“If you have talents, do your work as a human being. Do it without fuss or hypocrisy and let your actions be guided by reason and a concern for the well-being of others.”At its heart, Stoicism advocates for service—to society, to our communities, and to the people around us. Yet, this process of being useful doesn’t happen overnight. Before one can be useful, one must become useful.The Strong Stoic Podcast is a raw, honest, and unapologetically deep podcast about philosophy and self-improvement. Join your host, Brandon Tumblin, as he breaks down a wide variety of complex and difficult topics aimed at provoking thought and opening your perspective.This podcast is listener-supported; if you would like to support the Strong Stoic (as well as gain access to exclusive content), you can do so on Patreon or Substack:Patreon: www.patreon.com/brandontumblinSubstack: https://strongstoic.substack.com

In both Stoicism and Buddhism, there's a strong emphasis on being fully present. The idea of living in the moment is often associated with Buddhist teachings, but the Stoics share this perspective, though framed through their unique lens. For them, the moment you are in right now is the only thing that truly exists.The past? It’s unchangeable; the ink is already dry. The future? Unwritten and unknowable, no matter how much energy we spend dreaming or worrying about it. The Stoics encourage us to live fully in the present.Yet, here’s the twist: Stoicism also emphasizes the importance of self-reflection—an act that involves revisiting the past and contemplating how we might respond differently in the future. At first glance, this might seem contradictory. How can you live in the moment while also reflecting on what has already happened?The answer lies in balance.The Strong Stoic Podcast is a raw, honest, and unapologetically deep podcast about philosophy and self-improvement. Join your host, Brandon Tumblin, as he breaks down a wide variety of complex and difficult topics aimed at provoking thought and opening your perspective.This podcast is listener-supported; if you would like to support the Strong Stoic (as well as gain access to exclusive content), you can do so on Patreon or Substack:Patreon: www.patreon.com/brandontumblinSubstack: https://strongstoic.substack.com

I recently found myself exploring a bookstore. I made my way to the philosophy section, as I usually inevitably do. However, when I picked up a newly released Stoic book, I asked myself: What good is reading this really going to do for me? For someone who loves philosophy and learning, it felt like heresy to question the value of reading. But over time, I’ve realized something: reading can sometimes be an escape. A distraction disguised as productivity.We fall into a trap where consuming ideas feels like progress. But the real work—the transformation—happens when we take what we learn and implement it in our lives.The Strong Stoic Podcast is a raw, honest, and unapologetically deep podcast about philosophy and self-improvement. Join your host, Brandon Tumblin, as he breaks down a wide variety of complex and difficult topics aimed at provoking thought and opening your perspective.This podcast is listener-supported; if you would like to support the Strong Stoic (as well as gain access to exclusive content), you can do so on Patreon or Substack:Patreon: www.patreon.com/brandontumblinSubstack: https://strongstoic.substack.com

In a world that constantly screams "more," minimalism whispers, "enough." Minimalism challenges the pervasive narrative of consumerism—one that equates happiness with accumulation. It asks us to pause, reflect, and consider the cost of this endless chase for wealth, possessions, and status.The Stoics, philosophers of simplicity and clarity, would find much to agree with in this modern movement. They understood that the relentless pursuit of external achievements can leave us feeling overwhelmed, trapped, and, ironically, empty. By embracing minimalism, we align ourselves with a philosophy that values inner peace over external abundance.Find this episode on:https://linktr.ee/Strongstoic The Strong Stoic Podcast is a raw, honest, and unapologetically deep podcast about philosophy and self-improvement. Join your host, Brandon Tumblin, as he breaks down a wide variety of complex and difficult topics aimed at provoking thought and opening your perspective.This podcast is listener-supported; if you would like to support the Strong Stoic (as well as gain access to exclusive content), you can do so on Patreon or Substack:Patreon: www.patreon.com/brandontumblinSubstack: https://strongstoic.substack.com

In recent years, the term "Practical Stoicism" has gained traction. It suggests a philosophy rooted in real-world application rather than abstract ideals. While Stoicism itself is inherently practical, emphasizing values that anyone can apply to life’s ups and downs, the renewed focus on "practical" Stoicism reflects a shift. It bridges ancient Stoic thought with modern life, which is steeped in complexity, ambiguity, and moral gray areas. Practical Stoicism is not about adhering rigidly to ideals but learning to navigate life’s intricate terrain with a flexible, thoughtful approach to virtue.Find this episode on:https://linktr.ee/Strongstoic The Strong Stoic Podcast is a raw, honest, and unapologetically deep podcast about philosophy and self-improvement. Join your host, Brandon Tumblin, as he breaks down a wide variety of complex and difficult topics aimed at provoking thought and opening your perspective.This podcast is listener-supported; if you would like to support the Strong Stoic (as well as gain access to exclusive content), you can do so on Patreon or Substack:Patreon: www.patreon.com/brandontumblinSubstack: https://strongstoic.substack.com

As we approach the aftermath of the 2024 U.S. presidential election, this discussion offers insights into how Stoic philosophy can guide us through the intense partisanship often seen in today’s political landscape. This reflection, rooted in Stoicism, invites us to consider our responsibilities not only as citizens of our nations but also as members of a broader human community.Find this episode on:https://linktr.ee/Strongstoic The Strong Stoic Podcast is a raw, honest, and unapologetically deep podcast about philosophy and self-improvement. Join your host, Brandon Tumblin, as he breaks down a wide variety of complex and difficult topics aimed at provoking thought and opening your perspective.This podcast is listener-supported; if you would like to support the Strong Stoic (as well as gain access to exclusive content), you can do so on Patreon or Substack:Patreon: www.patreon.com/brandontumblinSubstack: https://strongstoic.substack.com