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
5 snips
Mar 18, 2025 • 19min
Feed Drop: We spend 98% of what we make—Where is it all going
A couple grapples with their finances, struggling to understand where their high income disappears. Amid credit card debt, they realize their differing financial perspectives are causing tension. The discussion dives deep into the emotional weight of financial responsibilities and the necessity for a shared vision. They analyze spending habits and confront escalating costs, like utilities and insurance, all while dreaming of a financial future together. The journey highlights the importance of proactive money management and communication in relationships.
Mar 11, 2025 • 22min
The Illusion of Free Will? (Meditations 3.10)
Delve into the profound teachings of Marcus Aurelius as he urges us to embrace the present moment. Explore essential truths about life's brevity and our limited control over fame and fate. Unpack the intriguing interplay between free will and determinism, illustrated by metaphorical shapes that reflect our habits. Learn that focusing on personal character development is key, rather than trying to control the uncontrollable. Recognize your limitations and cultivate virtue in your daily choices.
7 snips
Mar 4, 2025 • 28min
How Environment Shapes Moral Progress (Meditation 3.9)
Explore the vital role of rational judgment in shaping moral character, influenced heavily by our surroundings. Discover how Stoicism warns against early indoctrination and emphasizes a supportive environment for ethical growth. Delve into parenting challenges, focusing on leading by example rather than imposing beliefs. Gain insights on fostering moral progress even in unsupportive settings, highlighting the power of mentorship and community in navigating ethical dilemmas. Embrace the journey toward Virtue with practical steps and open-mindedness.
9 snips
Feb 25, 2025 • 21min
What is Stoicism, really?
Discover the profound truths of Stoicism beyond its common misinterpretations. Ancient thinkers reveal that it's not a cold philosophy focused on indifference, but rather a guide to living a life of virtue and moral excellence. Learn about the importance of emotional reasoning and the balance between caring for what you can change and accepting what you cannot. This exploration invites both men and women to pursue a meaningful life aligned with nature, emphasizing that Stoicism is about contributing positively to the world.
Feb 18, 2025 • 19min
Why Stoicism Teaches Us to Be Prepared for Death (Meditations 3.8)
The discussion dives into the necessity of preparing for death as a pathway to living justly and fearlessly. Insights from Marcus Aurelius reveal how a true Stoic sage navigates life unshaken by fate. With a firefighter analogy, the speakers emphasize the importance of fulfilling our duties despite fears. The exploration of Stoic sagehood highlights the quest for personal growth rather than perfection. Ultimately, embracing mortality is presented as a means to lead a more meaningful life and engage with community.
6 snips
Feb 11, 2025 • 18min
The Commitment To A Moral Life (Meditations 3.7)
Marcus Aurelius's teachings highlight that virtue must always take precedence in our lives. Contrary to popular belief, Stoicism is not about isolation; it thrives on community and social responsibility. The discussion stresses the importance of leading a moral life through self-reflection and ethical choices. Embracing nature's harmony and prioritizing moral integrity, the conversation encourages listeners to act virtuously for its own sake. Ultimately, it's about staying true to oneself while engaging meaningfully with the world.
9 snips
Feb 4, 2025 • 20min
Stoicism Isn’t Toxic, But Misunderstanding It Can Be (Meditations 3.6)
Explore Marcus Aurelius's challenge of pursuing higher virtues like justice and truth. Discover how true Stoicism emphasizes disciplined reasoning and moral alignment, debunking myths of emotional repression. Learn that striving for virtue is not just noble, but essential to personal and societal well-being. Uncover the distinction between authentic Stoicism and its toxic misinterpretations, highlighting that the journey toward ideals is valuable—even if perfection is unattainable.
19 snips
Jan 28, 2025 • 11min
A Stoic’s Guide to Action (Meditations 3.5)
The discussion revolves around the teachings of Marcus Aurelius, emphasizing the importance of acting with integrity and self-examination. Listeners are encouraged to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, fostering gratitude along the way. It highlights the Stoic belief in focusing on motives over outcomes, suggesting that anyone can attain virtue through earnest effort. The conversation invites reflection on internal values, urging individuals to stand upright and remain true to themselves, regardless of external influences.
6 snips
Jan 21, 2025 • 14min
Are Humans Naturally Selfish? A Stoic Exploration
The discussion dives into whether humans are intrinsically selfish, using the Stoic idea of Oikeiôsis to illuminate our evolving responsibilities. It contrasts self-centeredness in infancy with the eventual care for broader circles, including family and community. Through this lens, the complexity of human nature is explored, emphasizing that moral growth is a dynamic process. The episode critically examines Hobbes' bleak view of humanity, suggesting that rationality may lead to altruism over time, amidst a universe that operates beyond individual inclinations.
Jan 14, 2025 • 18min
Choosing Your Counsel and Thoughts Wisely (Meditations 3.4)
Dive into Marcus Aurelius' insightful teachings on the importance of avoiding unproductive thoughts about others. Explore how every choice comes with opportunity costs, urging a focus on personal growth and meaningful connections. Discover methods for cultivating virtuous and honest thoughts to enhance moral integrity. Delve into the concept of Stoic reasoning, emphasizing the need to align choices with virtue and justice, and learn the significance of carefully selecting whose counsel to heed.
