Practical Stoicism
Evergreen Podcasts
Stoicism is the pursuit of Virtue (Aretê), which was defined by the Ancient Greeks as "the knowledge of how to live excellently," Stoicism is a holistic life philosophy meant to guide us towards the attainment of this knowledge through the development of our character. While many other Stoicism podcasts focus on explaining Ancient Stoicism in an academic or historical context, Practical Stoicism strives to port the ancient wisdom of this 2300-plus-year-old Greek Philosophy into contemporary times to provide practical advice for living today, not two millennia ago. Join American philosopher of Stoicism Tanner Campbell, every Monday and Friday, for new episodes.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Dec 8, 2025 • 2min
Special Season: 12 Days of Stoic Christmas
In this enlightening discussion, Stoic scholar William O. Stevens shares insights on applying Stoicism during the holiday season. He and host Tanner Campbell explore the necessity of mutual effort for holiday harmony. They stress that virtue is the only true good, diving into Stoic disciplines. With a mix of casual ramblings, they humorously tackle weather indifference and household values, suggesting kindness and neighborliness as key virtues. Tune in for practical tools to navigate the festive season with a Stoic mindset!
12 snips
Dec 5, 2025 • 9min
Heart to heart: we've got to invest in paying attention
Tanner shares insights on managing distractions while striving for Stoic practice. He opens up about feeling inadequate and how confronting personal shortcomings is essential. The conversation emphasizes balancing self-kindness with honest self-assessment. Tanner introduces a journaling platform aimed at fostering consistent reflection and virtue. He highlights the benefits of a weekly practice that has helped him stay focused as a creator and new dad. Listeners are encouraged to commit to their personal growth journey through 2026.
Dec 3, 2025 • 31min
Is AI Slop?
The discussion dives into AI as a tool, emphasizing its potential for good or harm based on our choices. The host critiques the rise of low-quality, profit-driven AI content, contrasting it with responsible capitalism that creates genuine value. He warns against the 'work is a scam' mindset, which can reinforce negative systems. The impact of AI 'justice porn' on social perceptions and the importance of traditions like secular Christmas for cohesion are highlighted. Ultimately, there's a call to act intentionally for a better future.
8 snips
Nov 26, 2025 • 19min
A Stoic Christmas Carol
The discussion centers on A Muppet Christmas Carol as a lens to explore Stoic principles. It highlights how isolation can dull our moral compass, just as it did for Scrooge. The podcast argues everyone has an inherent pull toward virtue, often obscured by past traumas. Scrooge's transformation illustrates it's never too late to shift toward goodness. Observing kindness in others can challenge cynicism, reminding us that the spirit of the holidays can inspire moral change year-round.
4 snips
Nov 21, 2025 • 17min
Growing Into Roles We're Not Good At Yet
Taking on new roles can feel overwhelming, especially when they come all at once. Embracing humility and starting as a student is crucial, as you won’t excel right away. It's important to set realistic expectations based on your development stage. Identifying the simplest tasks in each role helps build confidence. Creating habits shapes your character; who you are now impacts who you'll become. A thoughtful framework guides you through these transitions, reclaiming agency and enhancing growth.
Nov 14, 2025 • 26min
Living Well on a Hot Planet [The COP30]
The discussion centers on COP30 and its implications for everyday individuals facing climate change. Stoicism is explored as a tool for navigating despair and apathy, emphasizing the importance of roles in fostering local action. The host advocates using premeditatio malorum to prepare for climate disruptions and transform grief into constructive actions. Temperance is positioned as essential in a consumption-driven culture, while courage and wisdom are highlighted as guiding principles for effective engagement. The episode ends with a call to take immediate, small actions.
Nov 5, 2025 • 21min
Gender Roles and the Rational Soul
Explore the intersection of gender roles and Stoicism as ancient philosophy meets modern relationships. Delve into Musonius Rufus's belief in virtue as genderless, yet acknowledge his outdated views. Discover how Stoicism encourages just and rational partnerships, breaking free from traditional expectations. The discussion also highlights the importance of role allocation based on capability rather than gender norms, especially in parenting. Finally, learn how mutual care and moral choices define the essence of a Stoic relationship.
Nov 1, 2025 • 60min
The Stoic Blot [with Jason Pack]
Join Jason Pack, a backgammon grandmaster and geopolitical analyst, as he explores how the game mirrors life and leadership. Discover how focusing on the present move can enhance decision-making, while Stoic principles help maintain composure in chaos. Jason reflects on the 'enduring disorder' in global politics, advocating for wise cooperation over nationalistic impulses. He shares insights on emotional control, learning from mistakes, and the importance of strategic thinking, revealing that true courage lies in decisive action when opportunity strikes.
Oct 23, 2025 • 58min
Phi Curious [with Massimo Pigliucci]
Massimo Pigliucci, a philosopher and author known for his work on Stoicism and practical philosophy, shares fascinating insights from his book, Beyond Stoicism. He argues that a blended approach to philosophy offers a richer understanding of life than strict adherence to a single school. The discussion touches on the importance of skepticism, temperance, and reconnecting with nature. Pigliucci also highlights Epicurus' take on the fear of death and previews his upcoming book, How to Be a Happy Skeptic, blending Stoic and skeptical wisdom for modern living.
Oct 15, 2025 • 20min
What Stoicism Teaches About Courage Under Fire
Explore the profound lessons of Stoicism through the lens of María Corina Machado’s courage and sacrifice. Delve into how Stoic courage isn’t about being fearless, but about acting justly amidst fear. Understand the importance of justice as the guiding virtue that shapes moral action. Discover how honors like the Nobel Prize can amplify one’s message without defining virtue. Finally, learn practical exercises to cultivate resilience and a focus on what is truly within your control, emphasizing respectful solidarity in the quest for justice.
