Stoa Conversations: Stoicism Applied

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: stoameditation.com/course“The discipline of assent consists essentially in refusing to accept within oneself all representations which are other than objective or adequate.”In this conversation, Caleb and Michael discuss the discipline of judgement (also called the discipline of assent).It's all about how to think like a Stoic. (01:48) Introduction(07:49) Significance(14:30) Lines from Marcus Aurelius and Epictetus(19:32) The Judge  (22:49) Decomposition(26:43) Basic Mistakes(32:49) Logical Skill(35:43) Changing Behavior(38:39) Suspending Judgement(40:42) Impression vs Lekta(46:55) Helping the Ignorant***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenHave you thought about the Roman Republic today? In this conversation, Caleb speaks with Josiah Osgood, a professor of classics and author of Uncommon Wrath:  How Caesar and Cato’s Deadly Rivalry Destroyed the Roman Republic. They discuss Cato the Younger, Julius Caesar, and the lessons we can take from both men.(02:21) Cato's Rome(07:30) The Young Caesar and Cato(14:21) Populist vs Aristocrat(16:05) When Did He Become Stoic?(18:30) Cato vs Caesar(25:11) Caesar's Life Philosophy(29:49) Did Cato Do the Right Thing?(37:03) What Can We Learn From Caesar(41:49) Was the Republic Worth Saving?(44:56) Should Stoics Always Resist a Tyrant?(50:59) Fabius Maximus – a Roman Model***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenThis conversation covers the key ideas of Buddhism and compares it with Stoicism. This will be the first of many more conversations. We thought it was important to start with a 101.(01:49) Introduction(06:36) The Founding Parable(14:33) The 4 Noble Truths(20:07) The Middle Way(31:39) Buddhist Evolution(40:17) Stoicism vs Buddhism: Similarities(48:10) Stoicism vs Buddhism: DifferencesEpisode 55: Building Stoic MindfulnessEpisode 56: Greg Lopez on Stoicism and Buddhism***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on Maven“If a text is not offensive to anyone, it probably isn't very important.”In this conversation, Caleb speaks with Jeremy Wayne Tate, the Co-founder and President of the Classic Learning Test.The Classic Learning Test is bringing back a focus on educating the whole human person by focusing on the great works and fundamental philosophical questions about how to live.If you check out the CLT author bank you’ll find several Stoic names – which we at Stoa love to see.This conversation focuses on the purpose of education, testing, and how to approach the classics today – all with someone who is in the arena shaping how education is done today.https://www.cltexam.comhttps://twitter.com/JeremyTate41(03:31) Telos and Tests(06:06) Why Go Back To The Classics?(08:17) The SAT(09:09) Elite Education(11:05) The Stoics(12:14) Crucial Questions(16:46) How to Approach the Great Works(20:07) C. S. Lewis***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenDoes Contemporary psychology overlap with Stoic philosophy? In this episode, Michael and Caleb go through Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman. It’s a seminal book in modern cognitive psychology and behavioral economics. Most importantly for our purposes, it’s discussion of two key thinking styles, can deepen one’s knowledge of Stoicism and, potentially, help one think better.(01:21) Introduction(06:35) Book Summary(13:44) Going Deeper(23:21) Anchoring(26:05) Stoic Parallels(37:26) Walking Through The Two Systems(50:24) Takeaways

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on Maven"Happiness, as the goal of life, can be understood as the highest expression of human nature, as encapsulating the chief markers of humanity at its best, namely rationality and sociability."In this conversation, I (Caleb) speak with Chris Gill. We kick off the conversation with topics from his most recent book Learning to Live Naturally: Stoic Ethics and its Modern Significance. It’s no exaggeration to say that Chris Gill is a legend in modern Stoicism so having him on again was a real privilege.Learning to Live Naturally(02:19) Indifferents(10:39) What Grounds Virtue?(16:55) How to Think About Virtues and Nature(26:44) Stoicism and the Natural World(29:43) Stoic Detachment(38:02) Does Stoicism Promote Self-sufficiency?***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenWhat does a Stoic eat?How does a Stoic think about food?That's what Caleb and Michael discuss in this episode.Citing all 4 of the Roman Stoics, they cover how ancient Stoics thought about food and how that can shape our behavior today.(01:56) Intro(05:06) Musonius Rufus on Food(14:05) The Social Role of Food(19:09) Seneca on Food(24:53) Mythbusting(28:00) What Should Other People Eat?(33:00) Context Context (35:29) Implications***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on Maven“Iron sharpens iron”In this conversation, Michael speaks with Gregory Sadler. Greg is the Founder and President of ReasonIO, a company dedicated to making resources of contemporary and classical philosophy available and accessible to non-philosophers. I first encountered Greg through his popular YouTube channel, which has hundreds of videos breaking down the thinking of philosophers ranging from Epictetus and Seneca to Hegel and Hume.In this conversation, we cover challenges to the Stoics from a range of philosophers – each criticism should sharpen your picture of Stoicism.(02:04) Greg's Story(06:37) What Attracted Greg to Stoicism?(13:28) Hegel on the Stoics(25:12) Nietzsche’s Challenge(33:36) William James on Stoicism(43:39) Experimentation(46:00) Shifty Stoicism(48:15) Neo-Aristotelian Arguments***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenThe best skiers don’t study ancient skiers. The best physicists don’t turn to Ancient Greece in order to push their field forward. So why should philosophers look back at the work of the ancients?In this episode, Caleb and Michael wrestle with that question. Their answers may surprise you.(02:11) The Argument Against Studying Ancient Philosophy (07:00) Who is Actually Doing Philosophy Today?(16:27) Mining for Diamonds(25:00) The Motivational Force of Philosophy(28:17) Communion with the Ancients(32:08) Caleb on Why He Studies Ancient Philosophy(35:55) An Aside on Organs***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on Maven“The central theme of Seneca’s tragedies is how to endure a world in which there is no justice, no safety, no guarantees—political or divine—of human dignity.”For this episode, I went to Sonoma County, California to speak with the poet Dana Gioia.Seneca was a brilliant philosopher and statesman, but not many know he was also a world-class playwright. Dana Gioia is changing that.Our conversation focuses on Dana’s translation of Seneca’s The Madness of Hercules but also covers Dana’s story, Stoicism, and much more.https://danagioia.com/https://www.wisebloodbooks.com/store/p131/seneca-the-madness-of-hercules-translate-by-dana-gioia.html(02:19) Dana's Story(13:29) Choosing Art Over Material Success(19:30) Seneca Enters the Picture(32:02) The Madness of Hercules(38:25) The Value in Seneca's Violence(44:44) Reading The Play(51:21) Reading vs Listening vs Seeing(57:59) Bacchus(59:55) Seneca the Playwright vs Seneca the Philosopher(01:07:31) Seneca on Anger(01:14:26) Stoicism Today(01:21:11) Fasting(01:29:05) Final WordsNote: I had use backup audio for 1:02 to 1:08. You’ll notice a slight decline in audio quality for those 6 minutes.***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on Maven"They say that love is an effort to form a friendship because of an impression of beauty in young persons at their prime..."In this conversation, Caleb and Michael talk about the Stoics on eros and romantic love. First, they cover how the Stoics saw the nature of romantic love. Then, they look at what advice they have for us today. Finally, they end on the topic of heartbreak.(01:35) Introducing Love(05:36) Erotic Love(20:18) Friendship(27:00) Stoic Advice for Modern Relationships(30:39) Knowing How To Say The I(36:59) Role Ethics  (41:24) The Stoics on Heartbreak***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenIn this conversation, Caleb speaks with Dr. Randolph Nesse.Randolph is the author of Good Reasons for Bad Feelings: Insights from the Frontier of Evolutionary Psychiatry. His work focuses on answering fundamental questions like why humans get sick and why we experience anxiety from an evolutionary perspective.This is an essential conversation for understanding the nature of negative emotions. We touch on why we get anxious, what we can do about it, why we may not want to become less anxious, the role of advice, and, of course, the insights of the Stoics.https://www.randolphnesse.com/***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on Maven“Must I be wasting my time sitting in a corner when I might have been crowned at Olympia?”In this conversation, we discuss failure, how to avoid it, and how to deal with it when it happens. We end by revealing personal experiences with failure.“And what advantage does a wrestler gain from his training partner? The greatest.”(01:57) Introduction(10:40) How To Avoid Failure(21:54) How To Deal With Failure(27:50) Contemplating Adversity(34:52) Failure as Practice(40:06) Failure as Indifferent(44:46) Free for All(48:53) Personal Failure***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenCatherine Wilson is a Professor of Philosophy, currently at the City University of New York. She is the author of How to Be an Epicurean: The Ancient Art of Living Well, which covers Epicureanism, an ancient philosophy, as a way of life.In this conversation Michael and Catherine cover the basics of Epicureanism, a philosophical alternative to Stoicism based on minimizing the painful experiences of yourself and others, while maximizing enjoyment. They also discuss the contrasts between Stoicism and Epicureanism, including the idea that Stoicism is a tool for stress management, while Epicureanism is a tool for stress avoidance.This conversation is a must for anyone interested in expanding their knowledge of Hellenistic philosophy, or anyone interested in ancient philosophies of life besides Stoicism.(01:33) Stoicism vs Epicureanism(03:45) Convention vs Nature(10:13) Epicurean Altruism(20:35) The Garden(25:17) Back to Convention(29:11) Intellectual Pleasure(30:49) Stoicism vs Epicureanism, Revisited***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenIn this conversation, we review Ryan Holiday and Stephen Hanselman’s Lives of the Stoics, focusing on their accounts of the big three Roman Stoics: Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius. This is a great episode for getting a sense of the lives of key figures we talk about.Stoicism Applied course(02:54) Introduction(08:39) Seneca the Striver(24:00) Epictetus the Free Man(37:16) Marcus Aurelius the Philosopher King ***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenToday’s Stoic revival is the second one. The first resurgence of Stoicism actually happened during the Renaissance.In this podcast, David Fideler and I discuss what Modern Stoics today can learn from the Renaissance Humanists.It’s a conversation that touches on history, education, and virtue ethics. It should be of interest to anyone who wants to increase the influence of Stoicism on society.https://www.davidfideler.com/https://therenaissanceprogram.com/(02:24) Introduction(08:35) The Birth of the Renaissance(15:37) What Made Florence Great(17:49) Stoics in the Rennaissance(26:57) Stoic Exercises(30:25) Other Influences(32:44) What Modern Stoics Can Takeaway From the Humanists(38:54) Reinventing Education(46:10) Where to Learn More

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on Maven“You are mortal.” So whispered the slaves of triumphant Roman generals as they celebrated their return in a glorious parade.In this episode we discuss memento mori: Remembering the fact that you will die in order to live well.We discuss the Stoic view of death and why they argued that one should always keep death in mind. We end by summarizing the benefits and risks of memento mori exercises so that you can translate Stoic philosophy into real practice.(02:16) Introduction(08:37) Memento Mori(17:49) Face Death to Pursue Knowledge(22:07) Overcoming Death(27:08) You Are Free(32:30) How to Practice(39:04) Summarizing the Benefits(42:55) Risks ***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenIn this conversation, Caleb speaks with the investor, author, and philosopher Michael Gibson.You’ll hear why Michael thinks novelists are the successors of Plato, what some of the key entrepreneurial virtues he looks for are, how a philosopher like him ended up managing a sizable venture capitalist fund, and what his criticisms are of Stoicism in Silicon Valley. So I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did and do check out his most recent book: Paper Belt on Fire – as it has a number of gems we don’t even begin to touch on.https://www.1517fund.com/(09:29) Redesigning Academic Philosophy(19:34) The Meaning of Polytropon(23:18) Do Founders Need a Life Philosophy?(26:38) Does Virtue Pay?(31:54) Virtue Ethics in Entrepreneurship(33:55) Stoicism and Silicon Valley(50:22) A Role Model***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenIn this conversation, Michael and Caleb talk about philosophy graduate school. We discuss the good, bad, and interesting. You’ll learn why we think it’s awesome, but fewer people should go to graduate school and whether we’d do the experience again.(01:31) Our Academic Stories(07:45) Logic in the Academy(12:52) Getting Paid $$$(18:15) Custodians of Civilization(21:33) Surrounded by Serious People(24:09) Bad Business(28:56) Too Many Graduate Students(33:33) A Culture of Perfection(36:56) Philosophies of Life(42:21) The Obsession about Prestige(48:23) Making Graduate School Better(52:10) Would You Do Graduate School Again?***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenIn this discussion, Caleb speaks with Leo Konstantakos. Leo a veteran, professor of international relations and co-author of Being Better: Stoicism for a World Worth Living In. We cover how Leo came to see Socrates in a different light, Stoicism in ancient Sparta, and how the ancients viewed justice differently. We also lightly spar over whether someone can or should call themselves Stoic today.Leo has a unique cut on many of these issues and a clear love for the Stoic tradition, check it out.Being Better(02:03) Introduction(02:48) Seeing Socrates in a New Light(05:26) Rediscovering Stoicism(10:01) Stoicism in Sparta(16:18) Justice in the Ancient World(25:11) Can You Be Stoic Today?(41:53) Opposing Heroes***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenHow do you live in an uncertain world?In this episode Caleb and Michael talk about the life philosophy of Skepticism. Skepticism was one of the Stoic’s rival philosophical. Michael and I discuss what skepticism is, what living like a skillful skeptic looks like, and our impressions of the philosophy.(01:15) Introduction(04:22) What is Skepticism?(12:37) Questioning Skepticism(23:29) Skeptic Ethical Exercises(31:53) Areas of Agreement with the Stoics(35:56) Disagreements between the Stoics and Skeptics(43:13) Is Skepticism Self-refuting?(49:09) The Ancient Stoic Response(54:02) Summing Up***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenIn this conversation, Caleb speaks with Michael McGill. They discuss Michael's story, Roman history, and how Michael applies Stoic philosophy to his life. It’s a great look at how anyone can take lessons from Greco-Roman philosophy and use them in work, family life, and hobbies in a positive and energetic way.https://twitter.com/mcgillmd921(02:46) Introduction(04:34) How Stoicism Shows Up In Michael's Life(10:56) What Lost Stoic Do You Want To Read?(13:21) Roman History(19:23) Cicero(22:12) Time Management(26:06) Cato the Younger(31:38) Role Models and Anti-Models(35:39) Introducing Others To Stoicism(43:06) Advice for Creators(47:57) Busts***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenThe Stoics thought anyone could be happy in any situation.This is because virtue is the only good and it is obtainable by anyone.But why did the Stoics think virtue was the only good?That’s what Caleb and Michael discuss in this conversation. They frame the discussion around objections to that idea from Scott Aikin, William Stephens, and Massimo Pigliucci (all past Stoa Conversations guests).Epictetus’s Encheiridion: A New TranslationVirtue cannot be the ultimate good(02:51) Why This Matters(09:04) What is Virtue?(17:45) The Objection(26:31) Response: Stoic Move I(31:59) Response: Stoic Move II(39:43) The Practical Upshots***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenIn this conversation, Caleb speaks with Brittany Polat.She’s has done excellent work teaching and promoting the ideas of Stoicism through her books, blog, and Stoicare, so we’re always happy to have her on. In this conversation, we talk about what we can learn from monasteries, how to think about Stoicism & accountability, what Epictetus believed about the Cynics, and the Stoic attitude towards beauty.Stoicism for Humans(01:41) Introduction(03:11) Ethical Development(09:15) Determinism and Accountability(16:55) Learning From Medieval Monks(21:19) Medieval Monks on Meditation(29:40) Beauty(33:39) Epictetus on the Cynics(38:54) Devotion(42:56) Learning To Live Naturally***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenIn this podcast, Michael Tremblay discusses everything you should know about ancient Stoicism in 1 hour. Consider it a Stoic speed run.(01:54) Introduction(04:46) The History(13:48) Stoic Ethics(19:35) Psychological Claims(26:49) Stoic Epistemology(33:09) Stoic Metaphysics(42:05) Stoic Exercises(52:09) Objections(56:58) Last Challenge***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenIn this conversation, Caleb speaks with Spencer Klavan. Spencer is a classicist, author of How to Save the West, and host of the Young Heretics podcast.Spencer argues that we face five crises and how we respond to them determines who we are as individuals and society. These crises pertain to reality, body, meaning, religion, and regime.We discuss these challenges, Classical accounts of virtue, and whether Stoicism has what it takes to answer the predicament we're in.Gateway to the StoicsHow to Save the West(00:32) Spencer's Story(06:59) Career and The Hero's Journey(11:12) Recovering The Good(16:55) The Unitary Nature of Virtue(30:30) How to Save The West(35:00) When was the West at its Best?(39:11) Crises(44:11) Is Stoicism Enough?***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenWe discuss one of the most important Stoic ideas: Role ethics.This is a decision making framework from the Stoic philosopher, Epictetus. It’s a challenge to live a meaningful life by performing the roles you’ve been assigned and the roles you’ve chosen with excellence. We talk about the different kinds of roles we should occupy according the Stoics and how these roles provide a direction for life.(01:54) Why Role Ethics Matters(09:11) What Role Ethics Is(11:36) What Are My Roles?(13:18) The Role of Human Being(18:00) Specific Roles(23:54) Relationships(35:29) Chosen Roles(42:23) Role Ethics and Career Choice(48:49) Outstanding Questions***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenIn this conversation Caleb speaks with Greg Lopez. Greg is a practicing secular Buddhist and Stoic. He’s also the co-author, with Massimo Pigliucci, of A Handbook for New Stoics. They discuss Greg’s struggle to combine the two philosophies, and different accounts of mindfulness.Greg's Stoicon 2020 talk(02:12) Buddhism and Stoicism(12:25) Daily Practice(16:05) Varieties of Mindfulness(21:20) Stoic Mindfulness(33:13) The Notion of Self (38:21) Karma(42:45) Eclecticism***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenIn this episode, Caleb and Michael discuss mindfulness and Stoicism. They start by covering two central definitions of modern mindfulness, move to comparing those accounts with Stoic mindfulness, and end by talking about different ways to become more mindful.(05:47) What is Mindfulness?(15:52) Stoic Mindfulness(26:12) Comparing Mondern Mindfulness & Stoic Mindfulness(33:27) What's The Purpose of Mindfulness?(37:10) How to Build Mindfulness***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: https://www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podRemember – if you try it and find it useful, but truly cannot afford Stoa, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenIn this conversation Caleb speaks with Will Johncock, the philosopher, sociologist and author of Beyond the Individual: Stoic Philosophy on Community and Connection. Will’s work highlights the deeply social aspect of Stoicism and offers an essential frame for thinking about our own lives, the lives of the people around us, and our world. Will reminds us that we share our nature with the world and people around us. This provides a source of meaning and guidance.https://willjohncock.com/(03:28) The Individual and Social Aspects of Stoicism(07:54) Being Social(13:38) Rationality in the Universe(18:59) Egoism(29:52) Autonomy Culture(36:17) Virtue(38:58) The Problem of Evil(42:56) Moral Luck(46:58) History or Life Philosophy?***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podIf you try the Stoa app and find it useful, but truly cannot afford it, email us and we'll set you up with a free account.Listen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenThey say that if you’re not angry, you’re not paying attention. The Stoics don’t agree with that. In their view, anger is always bad. If you’re angry, you’re not seeing things as they are.Caleb and Michael discuss why you’d think that in this conversation. It’s grounded in Seneca’s On Anger. Enjoy.(02:09) Introduction(06:57) What Is Emotion(12:55) What Is Anger(24:13) Why Defenses For Anger Do Not Work(24:47) But Vengeance Is Justified(34:16) But Anger Is Useful(43:20) My Anger Is Controllable(46:31) If You're Not Angry, Something Is Wrong With You***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podListen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenIn this conversation, Caleb speaks with Chris Gill. It is one of the best explanations from a scholar who regularly interacts with practitioners.This episode was released previously on the Stoa App. We’re currently running an annual special for our membership in the month of June: https://stoameditation.com/We discuss the Stoic virtue, the idea of indifference, the Stoic view of emotions, and how to be happy.(01:32) Defining Stoicism(06:34) Indifferents(09:06) Social and Ethical Development(11:48) Emotional Development(21:20) Practice vs Theory(25:23) Epictetus's Advice(28:25) 3 Disciplines(37:02) Grounding Virtues(42:02) Stoic Exercises(44:34) Open QuestionsSubscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podListen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenToday, we talk about the View from above. It’s the one of the most popular Stoic practices for generating a sense of calm, perspective, and purpose.What it is, how to practice it, and the risks associated with the practice. We also touch on the importance of consuming art and how you can use art to get into a Stoic mental state.Arvo Pärt6 Ways to Practice the View from Above(03:23) The View From Above(16:48) How to Practice(24:39) Philosophically Grounding the Exercise(30:31) View From Above In Art(34:53) Risks***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podListen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenThis is our 50th episode! Thank you for listening and supporting Stoa Conversations. If you’d like to support the show, please subscribe, leave a review, and share an episode with a friend. Also, send a note to [email protected]. We read and respond to every single one.This episode is with Dr. Marcus Hedahl. Marcus turns the tables and asks Caleb Ontiveros about his article, Stoicism For Me But Not For Thee. They each discuss how to talk to irrational and non-Stoic people.Stoicism For Me But Not For TheeMarcus Hedahl on Stoic Happiness(03:01) Stoicism for Me(16:28) Blaming Others(19:18) Pluralism?(20:55) Inviting Others to Stoicism(31:57) Why Do We Want Others to be Stoic(33:52) Groaning With Others(40:43) Pity and Empathy

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenMichael and Caleb discuss…Jordan Peterson. In a previous episode, we covered 12 Rules for Life. Jordan Peterson is a controversial political and cultural figure – but in that discussion, we put all that aside.In this discussion, we bring it all back.We cover what we see as Peterson’s virtues and vices in this conversation and how they impact his work. We discuss soldier mindset, audience capture, beauty, and neuroticism. Peterson is a role model for us, but also, an anti-model. This was a useful discussion for clarifying what we find valuable from the man, what we don’t, and how that shapes what we want to do with Stoa.(01:49) Introduction(03:44) The Good(12:29) Don't Apologize to the Mob(18:39) The Bad(27:58) Soldier Mindset(45:31) Outstanding Questions(49:07) Conclusionhttps://stoameditation.com/blog/12-rules-for-life/***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podListen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenIn this conversation, Michael Tremblay speaks with Gordon Marino. Gordon is a professor of philosophy at St. Olaf's College and a specialist in existentialism.In this conversation, they speak about existentialism and in particular the work of Kierkegaard. They discuss the idea of authenticity and human's capacity for self-deception. Towards the end of the podcast, Gordon's experience as a boxing coach and how his athletic journey relates to existentialism.This podcast will of value to anyone who wants to learn more about approaches to philosophy as a way of life that differ from Stoicism.Gordon on Twitter(01:41) What Is Existentialism?(04:37) Authenticity(08:26) Emotions in Existentialism(12:18) How Should We Live?(14:07) Wait - Who Is Kierkegaard?(25:48) The Role of Faith(30:16) Obedience(30:54) Sport and Coaching***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: https://www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podListen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenIn this episode, Caleb and Michael discuss the Socrates and the Socratic method.The Socratic method is the core philosophical technique. So, it's essential to understand.Caleb and Michael start start by giving an initial background on Socrates and then move to discussing the strengths and risks of Socratic questioning.(01:28) Introduction(04:17) Who Was Socrates?(12:13) Socrate’s Historical Impact(14:31) The Socratic Method(29:35) The Method As A Tool of Ethical Improvement(39:25) Pros of the Socratic Method(48:59) The Risks of the Socratic Method

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenThis conversation will help you think more deeply about the nature of  rhetoric.Caleb Ontiveros speaks with the political scientist Rob Goodman. You may recognize his name from the book Rome’s Last Citizen, which he wrote with past Stoa Conversations guest, Jimmy Soni. He's also the author of Words on Fire: Eloquence and Its Conditions. We discuss ancient Romans, current politics, risk, and rhetoric.(02:03) Introduction(03:56) Who was Cicero?(07:00) Cicero & Cato the Younger(19:53) Rhetoric(29:50) Responsibilities of the Audience(32:57) Politics as Spectators(36:43) Politics as Conflict(39:13) Why Rome?*** Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podListen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenIn this conversation, Michael and Caleb discuss Ryan Holiday’s book The Obstacle Is the Way. They cover the good, bad, and provocative. Both argue that it’s practically inspiring even if philosophically shallow. Michael argues that in a real sense, it’s not a Stoic book. Caleb pushes back – a little.(05:30) Protreptic Philosophy(11:44) The Necessity of Popularization(14:35) Stoicism as An Operating System(19:00) Motivational Power(22:01) Shallow Stoicism(31:16) Holiday Didn't Understand Stoicism(33:32) Muddling Through Stoic Theory(41:38) The Cognitive Theory of Emotions(47:03) The Spiritual Aspect of Stoicism(48:54) 3 Disciplines(53:43) Meditations 5 20***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podListen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenWhat is happiness?In this discussion, Caleb speaks with Marcus Hedahl, a philosophy professor at the US naval academy.They discuss happiness, its subjective versus objective nature, the meaning of life, what we can and can't reframe, and much more.It's an excellent conversation for understanding Stoicism, beginning with its account of happiness.(09:59) The Nature of Happiness(13:57) Is Happiness Something One Can Search For?(22:43) The Happiest Person Marcus Knows(26:36) The Stoic View of Harm(29:11) Stoics Do Not Judge(43:08) Is A Longer Life Better?***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: https://www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podListen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenAre things really right or wrong? Is morality objective? In this conversation, Caleb gives three arguments for thinking that it is. Michael questions each one. Along the way, they discuss the Stoic response to skepticism, why this issue matters, and how the ancient Stoics grounded their picture of the good life.(06:51) What is Moral Realism?(16:12) The Argument from Intuition(26:47) The Argument from Practical Reason(40:12) Epistemic Realism***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podListen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenIn this conversation, Michael Tremblay speaks to David Fideler about Seneca. They cover how the Stoic philosopher provided valuable guidance for how to live today. David’s book Breakfast with Seneca serves as the launching point for the discussion.(03:04) Facing the Mob(09:06) Cosmopolitanism(20:03) Authenticity(24:42) Confronting Death(29:21) Experiencing Grief(34:25) Cosmic Gratitude(41:28) Deep vs Shallow Stoicism***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podListen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenOne of the best ways to understand what Stoicism is and contemporary  Stoic debates is learning about Aristo of Chios.Today, we’re having debates over the place of physics and logic in Stoicism and the place of Stoic advice today. Well, Aristo challenged the Stoics on these issues hundred of years ago.In this episode, Michael and Caleb talk about what he had to say, how the orthodox Stoics responded, and what they have to say about the issues themselves.(02:12) Introduction(09:17) The Rejection of Logic and Physics(18:50) Rejecting Preferred Indifferents(32:20) Rejecting PreceptsRelated episodesConversation on Traditional Stoicism with Chris FisherConversation with Massimo PigliucciConversation on Six Stoicisms***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podListen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenIn this episode, Caleb speaks with Hampus Jakobsson. Hampus is a venture capitalist and serial entrepreneur. He is currently a general partner at Pale Blue Dot. We talk about Stoicism and entrepreneurship. It’s a practical discussion centering on how to use Stoicism as a tool to accomplish your goals. You’ll get a number of tactics you can use to solve problems, build habits, and hear how a leading investor and entrepreneur thinks. https://hajak.se/(00:36) Hampus on Stoicism(03:47) Playing A Single Player Game(07:35) Identity(11:48) What's Holding You Back(14:24) Identity(21:43) Caring What Other's Think(28:50) Quitting(36:31) Misconceptions About Companies(43:56) Role Models***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podListen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenIn this episode, Michael and Caleb review Jordan Peterson’s book 12 Rules for Life.We each pick out 1 idea we believe is true, 1 false, and 1 provocative. There’s a lot to say about this controversial book. Both of us think it has a number of life-changing lessons, but also gets important things wrong.(04:29) Hierarchy and Feedback Loops(15:49) Tell the Truth(23:55) Clean More Than Your Room(36:03) Too Much Freud(45:25) The Centrality of Myth(56:49) Sacrifice***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podListen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenThis conversation is with Tanner Campbell., the founder of Practical Philosophy and host of the Practical Stoicism Podcast.Tanner specializes in bringing Stoicism to a broad audience in a way that is practical and accessible. In this episode, he and Michael Tremblay how to navigate our roles and responsibilities as Stoics, Tanner's journey from being skeptical of Stoicism to a Stoic advocate, and Tanner's relationship with the Stoic God as the former host of an atheism podcast.(01:16) Introduction(10:40) Podcast as Practice(22:55) The Difference That Stoicism Makes(36:10) Virtue Signaling(38:37) How Do You Know What Your Roles Are?(48:14) Common Pitfalls (50:29) Popularizing Stoicism(01:01:39) Traditional Stoicism***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podListen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenAre you even Stoic if you don't take ice-baths, fast, or regularly underdress?Michael and I discuss why the Stoics argued for voluntary suffering – but also what they said about how it should be practiced. We then debate whether one should show off and share how  we practice voluntary suffering in our own lives. (03:18) What is Voluntary Suffering?(07:31) Why You Should Train Your Body(19:51) Stoic Warnings(38:59) Summarizing(41:31) How We Practice Voluntary Suffering***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podListen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenIn this conversation, Michael speaks with Julia Galef, author of The Scout Mindset.Julia is a modern advocate for what the Stoics argued: improving our reason and learning to pursue the truth. Michael and Julia discuss her arguments for the scout mindset as compared to the soldier mindset. (01:28) Scout Mindset(10:25) The Case For Scout Mindset(21:50) Sophism(28:37) True vs Fake Scout Mindset(38:06) Choosing Reasoning Processes(41:15) Epistemology(46:36) What Does This Mean For The Good Life?***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podListen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenWhy do you do things you know you shouldn’t? The ancient term for doing what you knew wasn’t best for was akrasia or weakness of will. Plato and Aristotle believed in it. The Stoics did not. What this means and why it matters for us today is the subject of this episode.(01:04) What is Weakness of Will(11:54) Plato on Weakness of Will(22:22) Aristotle(28:44) The Stoics(36:31) The Early Stoic Solution(41:27) Epictetus and Weak Beliefs(49:14) Nonreflective Judgments(53:18) Practical Upshot***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podListen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/

Want to become more Stoic? Join us and other Stoics this October: Stoicism Applied by Caleb Ontiveros and Michael Tremblay on MavenIn this episode, I speak with Emily Austin. Emily is the professor of philosophy at Wake Forest University and she's also the author of Living for Pleasure, which is an introduction to the ancient philosophy of Epicureanism, and that's what we'll be focusing on today.Ancient Stoics, like Seneca, found a lot of wisdom in Stoicism’s philosophical rival, we can do the same today. We talk about Stoicism’s ancient rival, whether it makes sense as a philosophy today, and what the Epicurean life would look like.(01:30) What is Epicureanism?(08:11) Misinterpreting Epicureanism(12:09) Epicureanism vs Utilitarianism(15:52) What makes Epicureans different(29:09) Does Epicureanism defeat itself?(35:03) Living the Epicurean life(40:21) Why aren't we happy all the time(42:27) Learning how to die(49:40) Takeaways***Subscribe to The Stoa Letter for weekly meditations, actions, and links to the best Stoic resources: https://www.stoaletter.com/subscribeDownload the Stoa app (it’s a free download): stoameditation.com/podListen to more episodes and learn more here: https://stoameditation.com/blog/stoa-conversations/Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations: https://ancientlyre.com/