The Via Stoica Podcast

The 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 writings of Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, Seneca, and more, to see how their lessons still guide us today.In this episode, we reflect on a quote by Epictetus, Handbook (Enchiridion), 37:“If you take on a role that is beyond your powers, you not only disgrace yourself in that role, but you neglect the role that you were capable of fulfilling.”Epictetus reminds us to know our limits and live in harmony with our true nature. Trying to play a part that isn’t ours leads to frustration and imbalance. The Stoic lesson here is simple but powerful: fulfillment comes from performing our genuine roles well, not from chasing status or proving ourselves.In this episode, we explore how to recognize when a role no longer fits, how to realign with what truly matters, and why stepping back can sometimes be an act of wisdom rather than failure.If you are looking for more Stoic quotes like this one, visit ⁠viastoica.com⁠, where you’ll find hundreds of authentic Stoic sayings with full references to the original texts.⁠https://viastoica.com/stoic-quotes⁠⁠https://viastoica.com/seneca-quotes⁠⁠https://viastoica.com/epictetus-quotes⁠⁠https://viastoica.com/marcus-aurelius-quotes⁠Make sure to subscribe to The Via Stoica Podcast for new Stoic quote episodes every Friday, and our regular Tuesday conversations and interviews. If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating — it helps us reach more like-minded people.Support the show:🌐 ⁠https://viastoica.com⁠🎓 ⁠https://viastoica.com/stoic-life-coaching⁠👤 ⁠https://viastoica.com/benny-voncken⁠🐦 ⁠https://x.com/ViaStoica⁠📧 Reach us: ⁠info@viastoica.com⁠Produced by: ⁠badmic.com⁠

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.What does it mean to lead yourself, before leading others? In this episode of The Via Stoica Podcast, Benny speaks with Becky Schmooke, founder of Stoic Edge Consulting and Becky’s Mindful Kitchen, and author of Choose the Handle That Holds.Blending Stoic philosophy, modern science, and real-world leadership, Becky helps people transform everyday challenges into opportunities for growth. Her approach isn’t about motivational hype; it’s about practical, lasting change through action-based mindfulness.Together they explore:How Stoicism helps you “choose the handle that holds” when facing obstaclesThe connection between mindfulness, leadership, and self-masteryWhy true leadership is a lifestyle, not a job titlePractical ways to apply Stoic tools in your personal and professional lifeYou can read about this interview here: https://viastoica.com/a-stoic-approach-to-leadership/With humor, vulnerability, and a deep understanding of both philosophy and human behavior, Becky shares insights from her work with organizations across the U.S., from healthcare teams and first responders to the NFL, showing that Stoic principles can empower anyone to live and lead with purpose.Follow Becky’s work here:🌐 beckyschmooke.com💼 linkedin.com/in/becky-schmooke📸 instagram.com/beckyschmooke✉️ substack.com/@beckyschmooke

The 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 writings of Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, Seneca, and more, to see how their lessons still guide us today.In this episode, we reflect on a quote by Marcus Aurelius, Meditations, Book 4, Number 7:“Choose not to be harmed and you won’t feel harmed. Don’t feel harmed and you haven’t been.”Marcus Aurelius reminds us that our sense of being “hurt” depends on our judgment, not the event itself. By removing the thought “I am hurt,” the pain itself disappears. This is a core Stoic idea about emotional freedom: that while we cannot control what others do or say, we can control our response to it.In this episode, we explore how Stoics understood the process of emotion, from first impressions to assent, and how to apply this in daily life. You’ll learn how to pause before reacting, see events for what they are, and gradually weaken the thoughts that lead to anger or distress.If you are looking for more Stoic quotes like this one, visit viastoica.com, where you’ll find hundreds of authentic Stoic sayings with full references to the original texts.viastoica.com/stoic-quotesviastoica.com/seneca-quotesviastoica.com/epictetus-quotesviastoica.com/marcus-aurelius-quotesMake sure to subscribe to The Via Stoica Podcast for new Stoic quote episodes every Friday, and our regular Tuesday conversations and interviews. If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating, it helps us reach more like-minded people.Support the show🌐 viastoica.com🎓 viastoica.com/stoic-life-coaching👤 viastoica.com/benny-voncken👤 viastoica.com/brendan-hogle🐦 twitter.com/ViaStoica📧 Reach us: info@viastoica.comProduced by: badmic.com

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on StoicismAI is changing fast, and so are our reactions to it. Some people resist it, others embrace it, and many feel afraid. In this episode of the Via Stoica Podcast, Benny looks at AI through a Stoic lens and asks a simple question: how do we meet rapid change with reason rather than fear?Benny clarifies what today’s “AI” mostly is: tools that predict and generate language, and why labeling it good or bad is our addition, not a fact. From there, he applies core Stoic ideas: AI as an external and therefore an indifferent, the three disciplines as a daily guide, and the need to keep agency over judgment and action. You will hear practical examples of using AI to support your work without outsourcing your voice, along with common risks to watch for, like misinformation, over-reliance, and letting tools set your identity.The episode offers concrete practices: negative visualization to rehearse possible losses or overuse, the view from above to place AI among past waves of change like the internet and mobile phones, and journaling to keep your reason active rather than passive. The goal is not to glorify or demonize AI, but to cultivate wisdom, courage, and self-command while the world shifts around us.If you want a grounded way to use AI as a tool, without letting it use you, this conversation will help you stay steady, thoughtful, and free.Support the show🌐 ⁠https://viastoica.com⁠🎯 ⁠https://viastoica.com/stoic-life-coaching⁠👤 ⁠https://viastoica.com/benny-voncken⁠▶️ YouTube: /viastoica📧 Reach us: ⁠info@viastoica.com⁠🎙️ Produced by: ⁠http://badmic.com⁠

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.In this Stoic Quotes episode, Benny reflects on the words of Seneca from On Providence, section 4:“You are unfortunate in my judgment, for you have never been unfortunate. You have passed through life with no antagonist to face you. No one will know what you were capable of, not even yourself.”Seneca reminds us that trials and obstacles are not punishments but opportunities. Without resistance, we never learn our limits or discover our inner strength. For the Stoics, hardship is the training ground for virtue, a test that sharpens self-knowledge and resilience.Benny explores how this insight connects to the Socratic principle of “know yourself,” the Stoic embrace of adversity as a teacher, and the mindset shift that transforms obstacles from burdens into opportunities for growth. From athletes seeking worthy opponents to Marcus Aurelius’ reminder that “the obstacle is the way,” Stoicism teaches us that challenges reveal what we are truly capable of.Practical ReflectionsWhen facing obstacles, pause and ask: What is this teaching me about myself?Reframe difficulties as tests of character rather than punishments of fate.Remember past struggles you overcame; you are stronger than you imagine.For more, check out this related article on overcoming adversity:https://viastoica.com/stoic-freedomAnd if you’re looking for more Stoic sayings, visit viastoica.com, where you’ll find hundreds of quotes with full references to the original texts:https://viastoica.com/stoic-quoteshttps://viastoica.com/seneca-quoteshttps://viastoica.com/marcus-aurelius-quoteshttps://viastoica.com/epictetus-quotesMake sure to subscribe for more Stoic Quotes episodes every Friday, as well as our Tuesday interviews and longer discussions.Support the showhttps://viastoica.comhttps://viastoica.com/stoic-life-coachinghttps://viastoica.com/benny-vonckenhttps://x.com/ViaStoicainfo@viastoica.comProduced by: badmic.com

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.Immigration is one of the most polarizing topics of our time, stirring emotions, fears, and debates across nations. But how might the Stoics approach it?In this episode of the Via Stoica Podcast, Benny explores immigration through the lens of Stoic philosophy. Drawing from Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, and the Stoic idea of cosmopolitanism, he unpacks how we might see beyond national borders and labels to recognize each other as fellow citizens of the world.Benny examines the natural movement of people, the fears that immigration often provokes, such as economic competition, cultural change, and security, and contrasts these with Stoic principles of justice, compassion, and role ethics. He reflects on Hierocles’ circles of concern, the Stoic “view from above,” and what it means to treat strangers as kin.Rather than succumbing to fear and division, Stoicism invites us to build understanding through education, dialogue, and shared humanity. Immigration, seen from this perspective, becomes not just a challenge but an opportunity to practice virtue, unity, and wisdom in our global community.If you’ve ever wondered how Stoic philosophy can help us reframe modern debates about borders, culture, and identity, this episode offers a thought-provoking starting point.Support the show🌐 ⁠https://viastoica.com⁠🎯 ⁠https://viastoica.com/stoic-life-coaching⁠👤 ⁠https://viastoica.com/benny-voncken⁠▶️ YouTube: /viastoica📧 Reach us: ⁠info@viastoica.com⁠🎙️ Produced by: ⁠http://badmic.com⁠

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.In this Stoic Quotes episode, Benny reflects on the words of Marcus Aurelius from Meditations, Book 6.16:“And if you can’t stop prizing a lot of other things, then you’ll never be free.”Marcus reminds himself that true freedom is not found in wealth, possessions, or status—but in learning to stop attaching value to what lies outside our control. For the Stoics, freedom means self-sufficiency, tranquility, and being free from the passions that disturb the soul.Benny explores how this insight connects to the Discipline of Desire and the Stoic pursuit of eudaimonia—a flourishing life rooted in reason and virtue. Marcus, despite being emperor of Rome, knew the danger of craving more: it enslaves us to fortune and leaves us restless.Drawing connections to Epictetus’ reminder that only our judgments and actions are truly ours, and Seneca’s warnings about wasted time and attachments, this episode shows how the Stoic path to freedom is inward, not outward.Practical ReflectionsExamine what you prize most in life: are these things truly within your control?Practice gratitude for what you already have, instead of longing for what you lack.Remind yourself that all externals are on loan from fortune—when they leave, your character and choices remain.For more, check out this related article with quotes on freedom:https://viastoica.com/stoic-freedom/And if you’re looking for more Stoic sayings, visit viastoica.com, where you’ll find hundreds of quotes with full references to the original texts:https://viastoica.com/stoic-quoteshttps://viastoica.com/marcus-aurelius-quoteshttps://viastoica.com/epictetus-quoteshttps://viastoica.com/seneca-quotesMake sure to subscribe for more Stoic Quotes episodes every Friday, as well as our Tuesday interviews and longer discussions.Support the showhttps://viastoica.comhttps://viastoica.com/stoic-life-coachinghttps://viastoica.com/benny-vonckenhttps://x.com/ViaStoicainfo@viastoica.comProduced by: badmic.com

What do the Swedish concept of lagom—living with balance and “just enough”—and the philosophy of Stoicism have in common? In this episode of the Via Stoica Podcast, Benny speaks with Kortney Yasenka, licensed clinical mental health counselor, writer, and Stoic practitioner, about how these two traditions can guide us toward a more meaningful and joyful life.Together they explore:Why asking yourself “What is enough?” is central to both Stoicism and LagomHow daily reflection on Stoic quotes can inspire real practice rather than just theoryThe balance between simplicity and fulfillment in modern lifePractical ways to bring more contentment, gratitude, and joy into your everyday routineKortney shares her personal journey, blending modern counseling with ancient wisdom, and offers insights on how both Stoicism and Lagom can help us navigate a world often dominated by excess and distraction.Follow Kortney’s work here:https://yasenkacounseling.com/https://kortneyyasenka.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/kortney-yasenka-lcmhc-0b412a35https://www.instagram.com/swedish_lagom/https://www.instagram.com/kortneyyasenka/

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.In this Stoic Quotes episode, Benny reflects on the words of Seneca from his essay On the Shortness of Life. Seneca challenges the common complaint that life is too brief, reminding us instead that: “Life is long, if only you know how to use it.”Rather than blaming nature for giving us too little time, Seneca argues that the problem lies in how we waste it—chasing externals, worrying about the future, or clinging to the past. Benny unpacks how this insight shifts our perspective: life is not about how many years we get, but how we live each present moment with awareness and virtue.Drawing connections with Marcus Aurelius’ reflections on time and Epictetus’ call to focus only on what is in our control, this episode explores how attention and presence transform the quality of our days. By treating each moment as if it could be our last, we discover that we already have enough time, if we live it well.You’ll hear how slowing down gives life a deeper richness, why attention is a form of love, and how letting go of legacy and haste brings us closer to peace. Seneca’s reminder still speaks to us today: a fulfilled life is not measured by its length, but by the way we choose to use it.Perfect for anyone reflecting on time, meaning, and how to live more intentionally with Stoic wisdom.For more, check out this related article with quotes on how to use our time best:🔗 https://viastoica.com/10-seneca-quotes-on-time/And if you’re looking for more Stoic sayings, visit viastoica.com, where you’ll find hundreds of quotes with full references to the original texts:🔗 viastoica.com/stoic-quotes🔗 viastoica.com/marcus-aurelius-quotes🔗 viastoica.com/epictetus-quotes🔗 viastoica.com/seneca-quotesMake sure to subscribe for more Stoic Quotes episodes every Friday, as well as our Tuesday interviews and longer discussions.Support the show🌐 viastoica.com🌐 viastoica.com/stoic-life-coaching🌐 viastoica.com/benny-voncken🐦 /viastoica📩 Reach us: info@viastoica.comProduced by: badmic.com

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on Stoicism.In this episode of the Via Stoica Podcast, Benny explores the Stoic Discipline of Assent, the practice of choosing how we respond to impressions, rather than being led by impulse or unexamined opinions.In an age of fast judgments, social media scrolls, and reactive emotions, this discipline gives us a way back to clarity. Stoicism teaches that when something happens, we don’t have to accept what our emotions or impressions tell us immediately. With assent, rejection, or withholding judgment, we can learn to meet life with presence, wisdom, and truth.Drawing on Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius, and Zeno, Benny walks through the stages of assent: noticing first impressions, pausing, investigating what’s really going on, then either approving, rejecting, or suspending judgment. You’ll discover how this discipline helps with emotional regulation, clearer decision-making, healthier relationships, and a more grounded view of what’s true.If you’ve ever felt dragged along by rush judgments or upset by your immediate reactions, this episode will show you tools and practices to slow down, check your impressions, and act from virtue.For more on this topic, see the full guide:👉 https://viastoica.com/how-to-practice-the-stoic-discipline-of-assent/Support the show🌐 https://viastoica.com🎯 https://viastoica.com/stoic-life-coaching👤 https://viastoica.com/benny-voncken▶️ YouTube: /viastoica📧 Reach us: info@viastoica.com🎙️ Produced by: http://badmic.com

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.In this Stoic Quotes episode, Benny reflects on the words of Michel de Montaigne, the 16th-century French philosopher who pioneered the personal essay. In his famous essay To Philosophize Is to Learn How to Die, Montaigne reminds us that the purpose of philosophy is not abstract speculation, but preparation for the ultimate change: death.Drawing from Cicero and Plato, Montaigne writes that true philosophers are always practicing how to die, because in facing death, we learn how to live. Benny explores how this idea connects with Stoic thought: Marcus Aurelius’ meditations on constant change, Epictetus’ reminder that death can find us at any moment, and the Stoic practice of using mortality as a guide to live with clarity and purpose.In this episode, you’ll hear how contemplating death reduces fear, why practicing small farewells prepares us for life’s biggest transition, and how journaling about mortality can help us live more gratefully in the present. Montaigne and the Stoics alike show us that learning to die well is inseparable from learning to live well.Perfect for anyone reflecting on death in philosophy, exploring Montaigne’s essays, or seeking Stoic practices to cultivate peace and presence in daily life.You can also check out this post to learn more about how Marcus Aurelius reflected on death:🔗 https://viastoica.com/20-marcus-aurelius-quotes-on-death/In the Stoic Quotes series, we uncover timeless wisdom from Seneca, Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius, and even later thinkers like Montaigne, exploring what they meant then and how we can live it today.If you are looking for more quotes like this one, visit viastoica.com, where you’ll find hundreds of Stoic sayings with full references to the original texts.🔗 viastoica.com/stoic-quotes🔗 viastoica.com/marcus-aurelius-quotes🔗 viastoica.com/epictetus-quotes🔗 viastoica.com/seneca-quotesMake sure to subscribe for more quote episodes every Friday, as well as our Tuesday interviews and longer Stoic discussions. Leave a comment if you have thoughts or questions; we might feature them in a future episode.Support the show🌐 viastoica.com🌐 viastoica.com/stoic-life-coaching🌐 viastoica.com/benny-voncken🐦 /viastoica📩 Reach us: info@viastoica.comProduced by: badmic.com

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on Stoicism.In this episode of the Via Stoica Podcast, Benny explores the Stoic Discipline of Action, the practice of living with justice, fairness, and responsibility in our interactions with others.In a time where social media and digital life can make us feel more isolated and divided than ever, Stoicism reminds us that we are social beings, connected to one another and to nature itself. Far from being about retreating inward, the Discipline of Action asks us to step outward, to recognize our roles, fulfill our duties, and act with justice for the common good.Drawing on Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius, and the broader Stoic tradition, Benny unpacks how role ethics, cosmopolitanism, and the idea of concentric circles can help us understand our place in the world. You’ll hear practical ways to apply this discipline, from asking “What is my role here?” in difficult situations, to weighing the fairness of your choices not only for yourself but for those around you.If you’ve ever wondered how to align your actions with virtue and contribute to a better society, this episode will guide you toward practicing the Stoic Discipline of Action in daily life. For more on this topic, see the full guide:👉 ⁠https://viastoica.com/how-to-practice-the-stoic-discipline-action/⁠Support the show🌐 ⁠https://viastoica.com⁠🎯 ⁠https://viastoica.com/stoic-life-coaching⁠👤 ⁠https://viastoica.com/benny-voncken⁠▶️ YouTube: /viastoica📧 Reach us: ⁠info@viastoica.com⁠🎙️ Produced by: ⁠http://badmic.com⁠

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.In this Stoic Quotes episode, Benny reflects on Epictetus’ teaching from the Handbook (Enchiridion 23):“If it ever happens that you turn to external things in the desire to please some other person, realize that you have ruined your scheme of life. Be content then with being a philosopher in everything; and if you wish also to be seen as one, show yourself that you are one, and you will be able to achieve it.”Epictetus reminds us that chasing approval from others comes at the cost of our own integrity. When we shape our lives around external opinions, we compromise the only thing that is truly ours—our character. Instead, the Stoic path asks us to be satisfied with living according to virtue and reason, regardless of how others may see us.In this episode, Benny unpacks how people-pleasing undermines freedom, why approval is an unstable foundation for peace, and how journaling and self-reflection can help us become our own witness. You’ll hear how Stoic philosophy offers a way to step away from external validation and return to the inner compass of virtue.Perfect for anyone exploring Epictetus’s quotes on approval, the Stoic discipline of desire, and the challenge of staying true to your own principles in a world full of opinions.You can also check out this post to learn more about the background of this quote: https://viastoica.com/how-to-live-as-a-stoic-philosopher/In the Stoic Quotes series, we uncover timeless wisdom from Seneca, Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius, and more—exploring what they meant then and how we can live them today.If you are looking for more quotes like this one, visit viastoica.com, where you’ll find hundreds of Stoic sayings with full references to the original texts.🔗 viastoica.com/stoic-quotes🔗 viastoica.com/epictetus-quotes🔗 viastoica.com/marcus-aurelius-quotes🔗 viastoica.com/seneca-quotesMake sure to subscribe for more quote episodes every Friday, as well as our Tuesday interviews and longer Stoic discussions. Leave a comment if you have thoughts or questions—we might feature them in a future episode.Support the show🌐 viastoica.com🌐 viastoica.com/stoic-life-coaching🌐 viastoica.com/benny-voncken🐦 /viastoica📩 Reach us: info@viastoica.comProduced by: badmic.com

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on Stoicism.In this episode of the Via Stoica Podcast, Benny explores the Stoic Discipline of Desire, one of the three core disciplines that guide us toward a calmer and more meaningful life.In a world where everything we want is just a buy button away and social media constantly tempts us to compare ourselves with others, Stoicism offers a way out. Instead of chasing external goals like wealth, status, or possessions, the Stoics teach us to redirect our desires inward, toward virtue, peace of mind, and harmony with nature.Drawing from Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius, and later Roman Stoics, Benny explains why unchecked desire leads to anxiety and dissatisfaction, and how suppressing or redirecting desire can create true freedom. You’ll hear about practical Stoic exercises such as pausing before impulses, practicing gratitude, journaling about wants and aversions, and realigning your goals with virtue.If you’ve ever wondered how to stop craving more and start living with enough, this episode will give you the tools to begin. For more on this topic, see the full guide:👉 https://viastoica.com/how-to-practice-the-stoic-discipline-desire/Support the show🌐 https://viastoica.com🎯 https://viastoica.com/stoic-life-coaching👤 https://viastoica.com/benny-voncken▶️ YouTube: /viastoica📧 Reach us: info@viastoica.com🎙️ Produced by: http://badmic.com

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on Stoicism.In this Stoic Quotes episode, Benny reflects on Epictetus’ words from Discourses 3.9:“You too should drop your desire. Do not covet many things and you will get what you want.”For Epictetus, the path to freedom and peace begins with the discipline of desire. We often chase after externals — wealth, success, recognition — only to find ourselves restless and unsatisfied. The more we want, the less content we feel. But when we align our desires with what is truly up to us, namely virtue and right action, we discover lasting satisfaction.In this episode, Benny unpacks how Epictetus connects unchecked desire to frustration, anger, and fear, while showing that virtue is the only secure object of desire. You’ll hear how the Stoics distinguished between healthy wishes and destructive passions, and why letting go of unnecessary wants is the key to freedom.Perfect for anyone exploring Epictetus’s quotes on desire, the Stoic discipline of desire, and practical philosophy for living a more grounded life.In the Stoic Quotes series, we explore timeless wisdom from Seneca, Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius, and more — discovering what they meant then and how we can live them today. In this episode, Benny connects Epictetus’ insight to the daily struggle of ambition, the need for role clarity, and the courage to choose virtue over externals.If you are looking for more quotes like this one, visit viastoica.com. We have hundreds of Stoic sayings with full references, so you can find them in the original texts or use them in your own reflections.🔗 viastoica.com/stoic-quotes🔗 viastoica.com/epictetus-quotes🔗 viastoica.com/marcus-aurelius-quotes🔗 viastoica.com/seneca-quotesMake sure to subscribe for more quote episodes every Friday, as well as our Tuesday interviews and longer Stoic discussions. Leave a comment if you have thoughts or questions — we might feature them in a future episode.Support the show🌐 viastoica.com🌐 viastoica.com/stoic-life-coaching🌐 viastoica.com/benny-voncken🐦 /viastoica📩 Reach us: info@viastoica.comProduced by: badmic.com

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, The Podcast on Stoicism.In this episode of The Via Stoica Podcast, Benny speaks with Dr. John Sellars, one of today’s leading scholars of Stoicism and the history of philosophy. Dr. Sellars is Reader in the History of Philosophy at Royal Holloway, University of London, Associate Editor for the Ancient Commentators on Aristotle series at King’s College London, and a founding member of both Modern Stoicism and the Aurelius Foundation. He has authored and edited numerous works, including Stoicism (recently revised), Stoicism and Emotion, and The Cambridge Companion to Marcus Aurelius.Our conversation traces Dr. Sellars’ journey from his early fascination with science and politics to his lifelong study of ancient philosophy. We explore how the Stoics carried forward the legacy of Socrates in a way that feels both practical and deeply human, and why their materialist, empiricist outlook resonated more with him than Plato’s metaphysical idealism. Dr. Sellars reflects on how philosophy has shaped his own life, from changing his views on free will to cultivating a “big picture” perspective that keeps ego and ambition in check.The discussion ranges widely: from common misconceptions about Stoicism, such as that it is unemotional, politically disengaged, or only for men, to the role of community in mental health, and the tension between Stoic determinism and ideas of God, providence, and nature. We also dive into Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations, examining why the book endures, how Marcus grappled with death and difficult people, and why we should see him not as a perfect sage but as a flawed human being struggling to live well.Dr. Sellars also shares insights into his ongoing projects, including new research on Stoicism and leadership (with Justin Stead of the Aurelius Foundation), and his work with psychologists at Royal Holloway testing Stoic practices in peer-reviewed studies on resilience, anxiety, and anger.Whether you are new to Stoicism or looking to go deeper into its history and modern applications, this episode offers both scholarly depth and practical wisdom for living a good life.You can find Dr. Sellars’ books, including the revised edition of Stoicism and The Cambridge Companion to Marcus Aurelius, through major booksellers. To learn more, visit the Aurelius Foundation or the Center for the Study and Application of Stoicism at Royal Holloway.Support the show⁠https://viastoica.com⁠https://viastoica.com/stoic-life-coaching⁠https://viastoica.com/benny-voncken⁠https://viastoica.com/brendan-hogle⁠https://x.com/ViaStoica⁠info@viastoica.com⁠Produced by: ⁠http://badmic.com

Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.In this Stoic Quotes episode, Benny reflects on Marcus Aurelius’ reminder from Meditations 7.18:“Frightened of change? But what can exist without it? What’s closer to nature’s heart?”Change is constant — from the rise and fall of empires to the daily challenges in our own lives. Marcus wrote these words while facing war, plague, and political turmoil, reminding himself that change is not something to resist but the very pulse of nature itself.Discover how the Stoics saw change not as an enemy but as the natural order of things. Learn how this view can help you face uncertainty with courage, accept the inevitability of loss, and meet each moment with wisdom and strength. Perfect for anyone exploring Marcus Aurelius' quotes on change, the Stoic view of nature, and practical philosophy for adapting to life’s challenges.In the Stoic Quotes series, we uncover timeless wisdom from Seneca, Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius, and more — exploring what they meant then and how we can live them today. In this episode, Benny connects Marcus’ insight on change to Stoic physics, the cycle of renewal in nature, and the courage to face the unknown with dignity.If you are looking for more quotes like this one, visit viastoica.com. We have hundreds of Stoic sayings with full references, so you can find them in the original texts or use them in your own work.🔗 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 for more quote episodes every Friday, as well as our Tuesday interviews and longer Stoic discussions. Leave a comment if you have thoughts or questions — we might feature them in a future episode.Support the show🌐 www.ViaStoica.com🌐 https://viastoica.com/stoic-life-coaching/🌐 https://viastoica.com/benny-voncken/🐦 /viastoica📩 Reach us: info@viastoica.comProduced by: http://badmic.com

In this episode of The Via Stoica Podcast, Benny and Brendan speak with Dr. Ranjini George, a writer, teacher, and scholar who bridges the worlds of East and West. Formerly an Associate Professor of English at Zayed University in Dubai, and now teaching Creative Writing and Arts & Humanities at the University of Toronto, Dr. George brings decades of experience exploring the overlap between philosophy, literature, and lived practice.We trace her journey from growing up in India and Kenya, to teaching in Oman and Dubai, to immigrating to Canada, where she began weaving meditation, Buddhism, and Stoicism into her teaching and writing. Dr. George shares how Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations and Thich Nhat Hanh’s writings became constant companions, how Donald Robertson’s How to Think Like a Roman Emperor deepened her Stoic path, and why she believes both traditions offer a daily, practical way to train the mind.The conversation explores where Buddhism and Stoicism align, in mindfulness, compassion, and resilience, and where they diverge. We talk about journaling as a form of self-inquiry, the importance of suffering “intelligently,” and what it means to pursue meaningful work without being consumed by comparison or self-cherishing. Dr. George also reflects on her books Through My Mother’s Window and her works-in-progress, Blue Flowers and Miracle of Flowers, and how storytelling itself can be a philosophical act.Whether you are drawn to Buddhism, Stoicism, or simply the search for a good life, this episode offers insight into building your own philosophy of life with compassion, wisdom, and presence.You can explore Dr. Ranjini George’s novel excerpt on Modern Stoicism: https://modernstoicism.com/blue-flowers-novel-excerpt-by-ranjini-george/You can also find her teaching at the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies: https://learn.utoronto.caSupport the showhttps://viastoica.comhttps://viastoica.com/stoic-life-coachinghttps://viastoica.com/benny-vonckenhttps://viastoica.com/brendan-hoglehttps://x.com/ViaStoicainfo@viastoica.comProduced by: http://badmic.com

Life is precious because it ends. In this Stoic Quotes episode, Benny reflects on one of Seneca’s most powerful lines from Consolation to Marcia:“Life, it is thanks to death that you are precious in my eyes.”Discover how the Stoics saw death not as something to fear, but as the reason we should live fully. Learn how this view can help you approach life with urgency, gratitude, and virtue — making the most of the time you have now. Perfect for anyone exploring Seneca's quotes on death, the Stoic view of mortality, and practical philosophy for living well.In the Stoic Quotes series, we explore timeless wisdom from Seneca, Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius, and more — uncovering what they meant then and how we can live it today.In this episode, Benny unpacks why the Stoics believed death adds value to life, weaving in Seneca’s insights, Epictetus’ advice, and even a lyric from Pearl Jam’s I Am Mine. You’ll hear practical reflections on living according to nature, fulfilling your roles well, and meeting the end of life — whenever it comes — with peace and dignity.If you are looking for more quotes like this one, visit viastoica.com. We have hundreds of Stoic sayings with full references, so you can find them in the original texts or use them in your own work.🔗 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 for more quote episodes every Friday, as well as our Tuesday interviews and longer Stoic discussions. Leave a comment if you have thoughts or questions — we might feature them in a future episode.Support the show🌐 www.ViaStoica.com🌐 https://viastoica.com/stoic-life-coaching/🌐 https://viastoica.com/benny-voncken/🐦 https://twitter.com/ViaStoica📩 Reach us: info@viastoica.comProduced by: http://badmic.com

A Stoic Conversation with William C. Spears: Stoicism as a Warrior PhilosophyIn this episode of The Via Stoica Podcast, Benny and Brendan speak with William C. Spears, active duty U.S. naval officer, submarine commander, and author of Stoicism as a Warrior Philosophy. From the depths of nuclear-powered submarines to the halls of the Pentagon, William shares how Stoicism became a moral framework and mental toolkit for navigating high-stakes, high-pressure environments.We explore his path from discovering Epictetus through Admiral James Stockdale, to writing a book that bridges the gap between ancient philosophy and modern military service. William unpacks what he means by “warrior” and “warrior philosophy,” why Stoicism is more than emotional suppression, and how its principles can strengthen leadership, resilience, and ethical decision-making in the armed forces.The conversation also delves into just war theory, the mental health benefits of Stoic practice, and the misconceptions, both in and outside the military, about what it means to live by Stoic principles. Whether you’re in uniform, leading a team, or seeking a way to stay grounded in turbulent times, this episode offers a clear-eyed perspective on applying ancient wisdom to modern challenges.You can connect with William at his website https://williamcspears.com or on X/Twitter via @WilliamCSpears.Support the showhttps://viastoica.comhttps://viastoica.com/stoic-life-coaching.comhttps://viastoica.com/benny-vonckenhttps://viastoica.com/brendan-hoglehttps://x.com/ViaStoicainfo@viastoica.comProduced by: http://badmic.com