The Stoic Handbook with Jon Brooks

Send us a textWhat if the secret to genuine confidence isn't positive affirmations or fake-it-till-you-make-it energy—but five ancient skills the Stoics spent centuries perfecting?In this episode, we explore how clarity of purpose, non-attachment to outcomes, radical authenticity, unshakeable self-worth, and enjoyment of your own company create the kind of confidence that doesn't need external validation.You'll discover:Why clear intentions make you magnetic (and how to develop them)The Stoic practice of releasing outcomes without abandoning effortHow to close the gap between who you are and who you pretend to beWhy self-worth isn't arrogance—it's philosophical truthThe biofeedback loop that shapes your personality when you stop performingThese aren't traits you can fake. They're practices you cultivate. And when you do? You become someone who walks through the world with self-sovereignty—unbothered by rejection, unshaken by external chaos.Stop twisting yourself into shapes that don't fit. Start here.🔥 🧰  Free SPQR Stoic Reset Kit — 5-min audio + 1-page protocol to stop anxiety spirals fast. → stoichandbook.co/toolkit

Ever felt overwhelmed by cravings? Discover how to transform those intense urges into moments of reflection. This podcast reveals how to recognize cravings as mere impressions rather than commands. Learn the power of the pause, and how just one minute can provide clarity. The three insightful tests help evaluate your impulses, leading to smart, mindful choices. Whether it's abstaining or indulging, feel empowered to decide with intention. Embrace the strength of your mind when temptation strikes, and reclaim your freedom!

Adam Rice, an evolution coach, yoga teacher, and shamanic guide, shares insights on embracing masculinity and healing through conscious relating. He discusses how to recognize and manage ego triggers, offering a three-step protocol for conflicts. Adam emphasizes the importance of integrating masculine and feminine energies for true power and intimacy, and shares techniques for conscious communication. He also highlights the role of plant medicines in facilitating personal transformation while promoting community and brotherhood among men.

Send us a textIf “be nicer” hasn’t fixed your toughest conversations, try Nonviolent Communication (NVC) in the wild. Coach Hans Nav Neev shows how to turn trigger moments into clarity, how to stop taking things personally, and why conflict—done well—becomes a portal to connection.What you’ll learnThe OFNR model (Observations, Feelings, Needs, Requests) that actually de-fogs conflictJackal vs. Giraffe ears: hearing judgments vs. hearing needsThe guilt process (“the art of being torn”) to end inner civil warsEnemy images and how to dissolve themWhen to set boundaries (and use protective force)Bridging NVC with BIFF (Brief, Informative, Friendly, Firm) for high‑conflict exchangesTimestamps00:00 Cold open, intentions, how we’ll talk02:40 What NVC is: surface techniques vs. deep worldview05:40 Taking things less personally; the guilt process08:10 Inner work vs. changing the world10:05 The OFNR model explained (Observations–Feelings–Needs–Requests)13:15 Practicing OFNR + the floor exercise14:50 Hardest skill: observations without interpretations (Krishnamurti)16:20 Anger = story about the event (not the event)18:30 Jackal vs. Giraffe ears (with props)21:20 Chronic “jackal mode,” boundaries, and dignity24:40 Needs, requests, and withdrawing from harmful dynamics26:30 Needs vs. rationalizations; congruence28:00 Language: “need” vs. “value/prefer”; needs as “frequencies”31:10 Family impact, social ripple of communication33:20 Trusting conflict; repair vs. rug-sweeping35:20 Intergenerational trauma; “enemy images”39:10 Avoiding the “obnoxious giraffe” (NVC police)41:30 Stoicism link: embody, don’t preach44:10 External validation; “seeds grow in the dark”45:50 Where NVC applies; protective use of force49:10 BIFF for high-conflict exchanges; bridging to NVC53:20 Filtering vs. entrenched relationships56:20 “Warm bath of empathy” and relationship risks59:30 Practice in low‑stakes settings first1:02:00 Resources and Insight Timer courses1:04:30 Two mantras: it’s never personal; guess the need1:06:40 Empathic guessing as a question (not a label)1:08:50 Measuring progress; conflict may rise first1:10:00 Positive gossip; humility as embodiment1:15:20 Self-image, overcorrection, and growth1:18:50 Vulnerability as success1:21:40 Beginner’s mind in communication1:24:10 Sensitivity with equanimity1:25:06 Rosenberg’s “tragic expression”; the third compassionate voice1:27:20 Metta vs. Tonglen; Michael Taft guidance1:30:27 Wrap-up, thanks, next stepsGuest: Hans Nav Neev — NVC coach and Insight Timer teacher with practical courses and tracks. Insight Timer (teacher page)https://insighttimer.com/hansvanv1Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/nondualcommunication/Website (bio + offerings)https://www.nondualcommunication.net/bio--Host: Jon Brooks — The Stoic Handbook (stoicism + practical tools). • Site: https://stoichandbook.co • Newsletter (Nous): nous.xyz • YouTube: youtube.com/jonbrooksIf this helped, follow the show, share the episode with a friend, and join the newsletter for weekly tools.🔥 🧰  Free SPQR Stoic Reset Kit — 5-min audio + 1-page protocol to stop anxiety spirals fast. → stoichandbook.co/toolkit

Send us a textWhen your child’s “No!” sparks your own surge, this guided reset helps you find your soft voice again. We begin with 4–6 breathing to settle the nervous system, set a one‑line intention, and repeat the cue phrase “Good kid, tricky moment.” Then we practice holding two truths—kind and firm—so you can keep connection first and offer clear guidance once the charge is gone. You’ll choose one calm sentence or boundary, visualize setting the shaken “snow globe” down, and close with a simple, honest repair script you can use later: “I’m sorry I snapped. I’m on your side.”Use this any time the day feels heavy—before pick‑up, after a meltdown, or when you want to stop the spiral and lead with steadiness. For parents and caregivers of kids of any age. If this helps, share it with a fellow parent who could use a calm reset today.🔥 🧰  Free SPQR Stoic Reset Kit — 5-min audio + 1-page protocol to stop anxiety spirals fast. → stoichandbook.co/toolkit

Send us a textEnd your day with this calming Stoic meditation designed to help you unwind, reflect, and sleep deeply. Drawing on ancient Stoic wisdom, you'll be guided through mindful presence, a gentle nightly review, acceptance of the day, and a cosmic perspective to let go of stress and reconnect with peace. Blending reflection, gratitude, and timeless philosophy, this practice is perfect for ending the day with clarity, calm, and inner stillness.🔥 🧰  Free SPQR Stoic Reset Kit — 5-min audio + 1-page protocol to stop anxiety spirals fast. → stoichandbook.co/toolkit

Discover the power of Stoic philosophy through guided meditation. Dive into morning practices that promote clarity and inner calm. Embrace acceptance and cultivate gratitude while rising above daily worries. Experience the beauty of simple moments and strengthen your mindset with affirmations and deep breathing techniques. This journey into mindfulness is perfect for anyone looking to reflect and find strength in everyday challenges.

Discover how Stoicism can reshape your emotional responses and help you stay calm in any situation. Learn to manage feelings in proportion to events, highlighting that your perspective is key. The principles of consistency and daily practice are emphasized for lasting change. Erick shares personal insights on overcoming anger, showcasing the power of shifting your mindset. With quotes from Stoic philosophers, this engaging summary offers practical wisdom for emotional resilience.

Explore techniques to navigate anxiety using Stoic principles. Discover a calming breathing exercise that helps you regain control in chaotic situations. Embrace the empowering mantra, 'I am the pilot, not the turbulence,' as a tool for inner peace. This practical approach can be applied anywhere, turning moments of stress into opportunities for calm reflection.

Discover how to embrace life's highs and lows with the Stoic philosophy of amor fati, or 'love of fate.' This discussion breaks down the concept, encouraging a proactive acceptance of all experiences for personal growth. You'll hear inspiring quotes and real-world examples that illustrate how to adopt this mindset. Learn actionable strategies to enhance your resilience and find inner peace, transforming your perspective on every twist life throws your way.