Meditations: A Stoic Podcast

In Episode 2 of Star Trek: Strange New Thoughts, we explore the Star Trek: The Next Generation episode "Tapestry" (S06E15), examining its themes of identity, regret, and the choices that shape our lives, through the philosophy of Søren Kierkegaard. When Q gives Captain Picard the opportunity to revisit a pivotal moment from his past, Picard is forced to confront the relationship between...

Star Trek: Strange New Thoughts explores episodes of Star Trek through the lens of history’s most influential philosophers, examining the timeless questions of morality, politics, and human nature. In this episode, we examine “The Drumhead” (Season 4, Episode 21) through the philosophical perspectives of Immanuel Kant and Jeremy Bentham. Hosted by Jared Poirier and Deven Kay.

In this episode, we explore Marcus Aurelius’ practice of Philosophy, comparing him to thinkers like Marx & Nietzsche, who founded schools of thought and challenged societal norms. We consider perspectives from scholars like Michael Sugrue, Gregory Hayes, and Benjamin Hendrickx. We examine Aurelius’ contributions to Roman law and politics, his personal philosophy, and his ability to embody Stoi...

In this episode of Meditations: A Stoic Podcast, we delve into Book XI of Marcus Aurelius' Meditations, exploring themes of change, manliness, and cultivating a tranquil mindset. We discuss the cyclical nature of the universe, the relationship between art and nature, and how Stoicism teaches us to avoid unnecessary anger. We reflect on how Stoic principles apply today, urging listeners to focu...

In this episode of Meditations: A Stoic Podcast, we explore Marcus Aurelius' Meditations Book X, diving into Stoic philosophy and its relevance today. Key topics include the transience of life, mindfulness, and living according to nature. Marcus reflects on the pursuit of goodness and the struggle to cultivate the right mindset. The episode encourages listeners to focus on their own actions ra...

In this episode of Meditations: A Stoic Podcast, we explore Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations Book IX, reflecting on Stoic principles that shaped his life and can shape ours today. We delve into the importance of aligning desires with what we control, managing expectations, and adopting a long-term mindset. Aurelius emphasizes the value of progress, the impermanence of life, and the role of perspective...

In this episode of Meditations: A Stoic Podcast, we explore Book VIII of Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations, focusing on how Stoic wisdom can help us navigate life’s challenges. From dealing with worry and pleasure to embracing the present moment, Marcus teaches us to avoid unnecessary anxiety and to live with greater virtue. We’ll reflect on powerful metaphors and Stoic principles that are just as rele...

In this episode of Meditations: A Stoic Podcast, we dive into Book VII of Marcus Aurelius' Meditations. We explore Stoic ideas on pain, change, and living with purpose. Marcus emphasizes that pain is temporary and should not control us, while reminding us that evil has always existed and change is natural. He encourages living with integrity, regardless of recognition. Listeners are prompted t...

In this episode of Meditations: A Stoic Podcast, we explore Marcus Aurelius' Meditations Book VI, focusing on Stoic ideas of impermanence, authenticity, and acceptance. Aurelius teaches us not to take life too seriously and to embrace the journey. Key ideas include the importance of doing the work you're meant to do, accepting the world’s impermanence, and recognizing that everything is in...

In this episode of Meditations: A Stoic Podcast, we delve into Marcus Aurelius' Meditations Book V, exploring Stoic principles and their relevance to today. Key themes include living harmoniously with others, dealing with societal challenges, and accepting obstacles as opportunities for growth. We discuss political systems, universal tolerance, and the Stoic view on self-discipline and communi...

In this episode of Meditations: A Stoic Podcast, we explore Marcus Aurelius' Meditations Book IV, focusing on the Stoic principle that the soul, not the body, is of utmost importance. We delve into Aurelius' reflections on fate and how life’s hardships — such as war, illness, and personal loss — shaped his philosophy. We discuss the Moirai (Fates) and how accepting what life brings is key to Stoic...

In this episode of Meditations: A Stoic Podcast, we explore Book III of Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations, focusing on the themes of gratitude, death, and devotion to a higher power. The hosts discuss historical and philosophical figures such as Hippocrates, Alexander the Great, and Socrates. The episode emphasizes the value of selflessness, the fleeting nature of life, and the importance of applying p...

In this episode of Meditations: A Stoic Podcast, we delve into Book II of Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations, focusing on his reflections during the Marcomannic Wars. The episode covers Stoic teachings on death, fate, and the soul, with Marcus emphasizing acceptance of life’s challenges and the inevitability of death. We explore Stoic views on the divine, the soul’s immortality, and how to live in harmo...

In this episode of Meditations: A Stoic Podcast, we explore Marcus Aurelius' Meditations Book I, diving into his life as a Roman Emperor and his adoption of Stoic philosophy. The episode covers Stoicism’s core principles — resilience, emotional control, and virtue — and reflects on how Aurelius applied these lessons from his mentors. Key themes include the importance of duty, personal responsi...