Best Brendan And Benny Podcasts (2025)

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Stoic Quote: Let Go of Desire — Epictetus on Finding True Satisfaction 8:36

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2d ago8:36

8:36

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 external…

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A Stoic Conversation with Dr. John Sellars: Stoicism Rediscovered Beyond the Buzzword 57:43

2d ago57:43

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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 Commentator…

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Stoic Quote: Change Is Nature’s Way: Marcus Aurelius on Embracing Life’s Flux 7:58

7d ago7:58

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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 w…

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A Stoic Conversation with Dr. Ranjini George: Where Buddhism Meets Stoicism 58:52

10d ago58:52

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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 o…

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Stoic Quote: Seneca on Why Death Makes Life Precious 8:38

14d ago8:38

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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 approac…

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A Stoic Conversation with William C. Spears: Stoicism as a Warrior Philosophy 52:05

17d ago52:05

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A Stoic Conversation with William C. Spears: Stoicism as a Warrior Philosophy In 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, Will…

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Stoic Quote: “For it is you who know yourself, and what value you set upon yourself, and at what rate you sell yourself.” 8:22

21d ago8:22

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The Via Stoica Podcast: Stoic quotes series In the Stoic quotes series, we take a look at what the Stoics said and uncover the wisdom they left behind. We look at the famous writings from Epictetus, Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, and more. In this episode, we turn to a powerful quote from Epictetus, found in the Discourses, that asks us to reflect on sel…

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Stoicism and Happiness: How to Find Joy Beyond Pleasure 27:26

24d ago27:26

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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on Stoicism. Most people spend their lives chasing happiness, but the Stoics had a different approach. In this episode of the Via Stoica Podcast, Benny and Brendan explore the true nature of happiness through a Stoic lens. You’ll learn why fleeting pleasures often leave us feeling empty, and how virtue…

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Stoic Quote: “The world is nothing but change. Our life is only perception.” 8:05

29d ago8:05

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The Via Stoica Podcast: Stoic quotes series In the Stoic quotes series, we take a look at what the Stoics said and uncover the wisdom they left behind. We look at the famous writings from Epictetus, Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, and more. In this episode, we explore a quote cited by Marcus Aurelius in Meditations, but originally attributed to the pre-So…

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Death and Stoicism: The Art of Dying Well and Living Wisely 30:21

1M ago30:21

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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism. What if preparing for death is the key to truly living? In this episode of the Via Stoica Podcast, Benny and Brendan explore the Stoic approach to mortality, not as something to fear, but as a tool to cultivate presence, peace, and purpose. Through personal stories, Stoic reflections, and …

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Stoic Quotes: It's not that we have a brief length of time... 8:45

1M ago8:45

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The Via Stoica Podcast: Stoic quotes series In the Stoic quotes series, we take a look at what the Stoics said and uncover the wisdom they left behind. We look at the famous writings from Epictetus, Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, and more. In this episode, we turn to Seneca and his timeless essay On the Shortness of Life, where he reminds us: “It’s not t…

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A Stoic Conversation with Will Johncock: Beyond the Individual 1:04:58

1M ago1:04:58

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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on Stoicism What happens when Stoicism moves beyond personal development and toward a deeper understanding of our place in the universe? In this thought-provoking episode of the Via Stoica Podcast, Benny speaks with philosopher and author Will Johncock, whose book Beyond the Individual explores Stoicis…

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Stoic Quote: “Difficulties are the things that show what men are.” 8:07

1M ago8:07

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The Via Stoica Podcast: Stoic quotes series In the Stoic quotes series, we take a look at what the Stoics said and uncover the wisdom they left behind. We look at the famous writings from Epictetus, Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, and more. In this episode, we reflect on a powerful quote from Epictetus, Discourses, Book 1, Chapter 24: “Difficulties are th…

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What Is Virtue? A Stoic Guide to Excellence in Character and Action 27:12

2M ago27:12

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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism. What is virtue, and why did the Stoics believe it’s the only true good? In this episode of the Via Stoica Podcast, Benny and Brendan explore the heart of Stoic ethics: the four cardinal virtues of wisdom, justice, courage, and temperance. Learn how these timeless principles can guide your …

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Stoic Quote: If You Seek Tranquility – A Reflection on Doing Less 6:43

2M ago6:43

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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast: Stoic Quotes Series In this episode of the Stoic Quotes Series, we explore a simple yet powerful reminder found in Meditations by Marcus Aurelius: “If you seek tranquillity, do less.” – Democritus, Frg. B.3, quoted in Marcus Aurelius, Meditations, Book 4.24 While the quote originates from Democritus, Marcus builds…

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What is Stoicism? Discovering the True Nature of This Ancient Wisdom 41:46

2M ago41:46

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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on Stoicism What is Stoicism? Is it about suppressing your emotions and becoming a cold, detached thinker? Or is it the path to inner freedom, resilience, and purpose? In this deep-dive episode of the Via Stoica Podcast, Benny and Brendan unpack the true meaning of Stoicism, exploring its origins, key …

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Stoic Quote: Whatever Fate One Man Can Strike – A Lesson from Seneca 7:16

2M ago7:16

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Welcome to The Via Stoica Podcast: Stoic Quotes Series In this episode of the Stoic Quotes Series, we reflect on a striking line found in Seneca’s Consolation to Marcia—originally attributed to the slave philosopher Publius Syrus: “Whatever fate one man can strike can come to all of us alike.” – Publius, quoted in Seneca, Dialogues and Essays, Cons…

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What Is the Stoic Man? Rediscovering Masculinity Through Stoicism 31:12

2M ago31:12

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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, The Podcast on Stoicism. What does it truly mean to be a Stoic man? In today’s episode of the Via Stoica Podcast, Benny and Brendan explore what modern masculinity often gets wrong and how Stoicism offers a powerful alternative. They challenge the cliché of the emotionless, lone wolf and instead present the Stoic …

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What is Stoic Coaching? (And what is it not?) 26:52

2M ago26:52

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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on Stoicism. In this episode of the Via Stoica Podcast, Benny and Brendan take you behind the scenes of Stoic coaching. What exactly is Stoic coaching? Who is it for? And how does it differ from therapy or other forms of coaching? From practical tools and tailored exercises to personal stories of grief…

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Stoic Quote: “First say to yourself, what manner of man you want to be; when you have settled this, act upon it in all you do.” Epictetus 8:05

2M ago8:05

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Finding His Voice among the Stoics: Benny’s Stoic Story 26:53

2M ago26:53

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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on Stoicism In this episode, Brendan interviews his co-host, Benny Voncken, to explore the personal journey that brought him to Stoic philosophy. From a difficult divorce and battles with alcohol to finding strength through books and reflection, Benny opens up about how Stoicism became his lifeline. Yo…

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Stoic Quote: We Have Two Ears and One Mouth, Speak Less 8:05

3M ago8:05

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Why You Should Listen More and Speak Less – Wisdom from Zeno of Citium Stoic Quote Series – Via Stoica Podcast In this episode of the Via Stoica Podcast, we go back to the roots of Stoicism — to Zeno of Citium, the founder of the philosophy. Long before Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and Epictetus, Zeno taught the importance of listening, observation, an…

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How Obstacles Became the Way: Brendan’s Stoic Story 25:53

3M ago25:53

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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on Stoicism In this special episode, co-host Brendan Hogle steps into the spotlight to share his personal Stoic journey — from first discovering The Obstacle is the Way by Ryan Holiday to applying the teachings of Marcus Aurelius during moments of grief, travel, and deep personal challenge. You’ll hear…

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Stoic Quote: "To stop talking about what the good man is like, and just be one." 5:50

3M ago5:50

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The Via Stoica Podcast: Stoic Quotes Series In this episode of the Stoic Quotes series, we explore a powerful reminder from Marcus Aurelius, found in Meditations, Book 10.16: “To stop talking about what the good man is like, and just be one.” Marcus doesn’t leave much room for excuses here. This quote cuts through all pretense and self-image. It ch…

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A Stoic Conversation with Shermin Kruse: How Stoic Empathy Build Better Connections 1:11:24

3M ago1:11:24

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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on Stoicism. In this episode of the Via Stoica Podcast, Shermin Kruse joins us for a deep and personal conversation on how Stoic Empathy can help you lead, connect, and live with greater clarity and compassion. We explore the Stoic roots of emotional intelligence, how to navigate discomfort and tough d…

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Stoic Quote: "There are times when even to live is an act of bravery." 6:32

3M ago6:32

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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism. The Via Stoica Podcast: Stoic Quotes Series In the Stoic Quotes series, we take a look at what the Stoics said and uncover the wisdom they left behind. We look at the famous writings from Epictetus, Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, and more. In this episode, we explore a striking quote from Seneca…

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How to Choose for Yourself: A Stoic Guide to Authentic Decisions 19:39

3M ago19:39

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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism. In this episode of Via Stoica, host Benny Voncken delves into the art of making authentic choices through the lens of Stoic philosophy. Drawing from personal experiences and Stoic teachings, Benny explores how to navigate decisions that align with one's true self, free from external pressu…

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Stoic Quote: “Enable my mind to adapt itself to whatever comes to pass.” 6:27

3M ago6:27

6:27

The Via Stoica Podcast: Stoic Quotes Series In the Stoic Quotes series, we take a look at what the Stoics said and uncover the wisdom they left behind. We look at the famous writings from Epictetus, Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, and more. In this episode, we reflect on a powerful line from Epictetus in The Discourses: “Enable my mind to adapt itself to …

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A Stoic Conversation with Anya Leonard: Classical Wisdom for a Better Present 45:22

3M ago45:22

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Send us a text Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on Stoicism. In this episode of the Via Stoica Podcast, Brendan and Benny sit down with Anya Leonard, co-founder of Classical Wisdom, to explore how ancient philosophy continues to shape the modern world. From the dusty ruins of antiquity to today’s digital forums, Anya brings a fresh, a…

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Stoic Quote: "The best revenge is not to be like that." Marcus Aurelius 6:33

4M ago6:33

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Send us a text Welcome to The Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism. The Stoic Quotes series. In the Stoic quotes series, we take a look at what the Stoics said and uncover the wisdom they left behind. We look at the famous writings from Epictetus, Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, and more. In this episode, we look at a quote by Marcus Aurelius from …

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Stoic Quote: “The wise man is content with himself.” - Seneca 7:42

4M ago7:42

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Send us a text Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism. In the Stoic Quotes series, we explore timeless insights from the ancient Stoics and break them down into simple, practical lessons. Drawing on the works of Seneca, Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius, and others, we reflect on how these teachings still apply today. In this episode, …

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Overcoming Overwhelm: Stoic Tactics for a Chaotic World 26:43

4M ago26:43

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Send us a text Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism. In this episode of The Via Stoica Podcast, Brendan and Benny explore how Stoic philosophy can help us overcome overwhelm and stay grounded in an increasingly chaotic world. When everything feels out of control—news cycles, obligations, emotions—the Stoics remind us to focus …

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The Stoic Cure for Loneliness: Find peace in solitude 20:44

4M ago20:44

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Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism.In this episode of The Via Stoica Podcast, Brendan and Benny explore the Stoic cure for loneliness and how solitude can lead to true inner peace.Drawing from the teachings of Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, and Seneca, we discuss how being alone, when approached with wisdom and intention, is no…

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Stoic Quote: "Anger, if not restrained, is frequently more hurtful to us than the injury that provokes it." 9:27

4M ago9:27

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Send us a text Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism Stoic Quotes 7 In the Stoic quotes series, we take a look at what the Stoics said and uncover the wisdom they left behind. We explore famous works of writing from Epictetus, Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, and others. In this episode, we turn to the Roman Stoic Seneca and examine a …

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Stoic Quote: "If a man knows not to which port he sails, no wind is favorable." 5:03

4M ago5:03

5:03

Send us a text The Via Stoica Podcast: Stoic Quotes Series In the Stoic quotes series, we take a look at what the Stoics said and uncover the wisdom they left behind. We explore the famous writings from Epictetus, Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, and more. In this episode, we focus on a quote by Seneca from Letters to Lucilius, Letter 71.3: “If a man knows…

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Stoic Quote: “What harm is there while you are kissing your child to say softly, ‘Tomorrow you will die’.” 9:09

5M ago9:09

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Send us a text The Via Stoica Podcast: Stoic quotes series In the Stoic quotes series, we take a look at what the Stoics said and uncover the wisdom they left behind. We look at the famous writings from Epictetus, Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, and more. In this episode, we reflect on a striking quote by Epictetus from The Discourses, Book 3, Chapter 24.…

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Define Your Enough: A Stoic Roadmap to Inner Peace 30:14

5M ago30:14

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Send us a text Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on Stoicism What if the peace you are searching for does not come from adding more to your life, but from realizing how little you actually need? In this episode, Brendan and Benny explore the Stoic concept of enough—a quiet but powerful idea that sits at the heart of contentment. We liv…

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Stoic Quote: That Sort of Person is Bound to Do That 8:46

5M ago8:46

8:46

Send us a text Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism. In the Stoic quotes series, we take a look at what the Stoics said and uncover the wisdom they left behind. We look at the famous writings from Epictetus, Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, and more. In this fourth episode, we explore a striking reminder from Marcus Aurelius in Medita…

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Stoic Quote: Suffer More Often in Imagination than in Reality 8:20

5M ago8:20

8:20

Send us a text Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism. In the Stoic quotes series, we take a look at what the Stoics said and uncover the wisdom they left behind. We explore the famous writings of Epictetus, Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, and others. In this episode, we turn to a powerful insight from Seneca, found in Moral Letters to…

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Stoic Quote: "To stand up straight, not straightened." Marcus Aurelius 9:39

5M ago9:39

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Send us a text The Via Stoica Podcast: Stoic quotes series In the Stoic quotes series, we take a look at what the Stoics said and uncover the wisdom they left behind. We look at the famous writings from Epictetus, Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, and more. In this episode, we look at a quote by Marcus Aurelius. In his Meditations, book 3.5. "To stand up st…

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Mastering Impressions: The Stoic Path to Wisdom and Truth 32:46

6M ago32:46

32:46

Send us a text Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on Stoicism. How often do your first impressions deceive you? According to Stoic philosophy, our initial reactions to people, events, and challenges are not always reliable—but mastering them is key to living with wisdom and clarity. In this episode of The Via Stoica Podcast, hosts Brend…

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Stoic Quotes: “Do not ask things to happen as you wish...” 10:18

6M ago10:18

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Send us a text The Via Stoica Podcast: Stoic quotes series In the Stoic quotes series, we take a look at what the Stoics said and uncover the wisdom they left behind. We look at the famous writings from Epictetus, Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, and more. In this first episode, we look at a quote by Epictetus. In the Handbook, the Enchiridion, the focus i…

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A Stoic Conversation with Meredith Alexander Kunz: Wisdom from a Stoic Mom beyond Stoicism and parenting 1:02:47

6M ago1:02:47

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Send us a text Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on Stoicism. Join us for an insightful conversation with Meredith Alexander Kunz, co-author of "Beyond Stoicism" alongside Massimo Pigliucci and Gregory Lopez. In this episode, we explore the intersection of Stoic philosophy and modern parenting, the vital role of women in Stoicism, and …

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A Stoic Conversation with Massimo Pigliucci: From How to be a Stoic to Beyond Stoicism 1:17:55

7M ago1:17:55

1:17:55

Send us a text Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism. Join us for a profound exploration of Stoic philosophy with Massimo Pigliucci, as we journey from his groundbreaking work "How to Be a Stoic" to his latest philosophical evolution in "Beyond Stoicism." Massimo Pigliucci is a professor of philosophy at the City College of New…

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The Stoic's Guide to Love: Ancient Teachings for Deeper Connections 28:50

7M ago28:50

28:50

Send us a text Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the Podcast on Stoicism. In this special Valentine's Day episode, hosts Brendan and Benny explore the timeless intersection of Stoic philosophy and love. Discover how ancient wisdom can transform your approach to modern relationships, from building deeper connections to navigating the complexities o…

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Why Stoicism Matters Today: Timeless Tools for Modern Life 30:28

7M ago30:28

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Send us a text Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, The Podcast on Stoicism. In this compelling episode, hosts Brendan and Benny explore why Stoic philosophy has become more relevant than ever in our fast-paced, digital world. Discover how ancient principles are helping tech leaders, entrepreneurs, and everyday people navigate modern challenges with …

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Beyond Resolutions: Stoic Principles for Meaningful Year-End Reflection 29:26

8M ago29:26

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Send us a text Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism. In this insightful episode of the Via Stoica Podcast, Brendan and Benny challenge conventional New Year's wisdom by exploring the deeper Stoic approach to year-end reflection. Moving beyond simple resolutions, your hosts dive into ancient philosophical principles that can tr…

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Holiday Expectations vs Reality: Stoic Tools for Authentic Celebration 26:41

8M ago26:41

26:41

Send us a text Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism In this festive episode of the Via Stoica Podcast, hosts Benny and Brendan dive deep into the gap between holiday expectations and reality through the lens of ancient Stoic wisdom. Discover how the teachings of Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and Epictetus can transform your approac…

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How to Invest Like a Stoic: Understand Wealth and Financial Freedom 32:38

9M ago32:38

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Send us a text Welcome to the Via Stoica Podcast, the podcast on Stoicism. What does it mean to invest like a Stoic? In this episode, we explore how timeless Stoic principles can guide your financial decisions, helping you build wealth and achieve financial freedom with clarity and purpose. Discover how detachment from emotions, disciplined action,…

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A Stoic Guide to Suffering: Transforming Pain into Growth and Wisdom 23:47

9M ago23:47

23:47

Send us a text In this episode of The Via Stoica Podcast, we dive into one of life’s most challenging aspects: suffering. Guided by timeless Stoic wisdom, we’ll explore how to not only endure pain but use it as a powerful force for personal growth and deeper wisdom. Discover how Stoic principles can help transform your perspective on hardship, turn…