The Camino Stoic

In this closing episode of The Camino Stoic, Eric walks the final stretch of the Via de la Plata through Galicia and reflects on what the journey has taught him. From moss-draped forests and quiet villages to the calm arrival in Santiago de Compostela, he shares the emotional and philosophical lessons of finishing a thousand-kilometer pilgrimage. Along the way, Eric explores Stoic principles lived...

In this special extended episode of The Camino Stoic, Eric is joined by fellow pilgrim Angelo, a multilingual doctor and seasoned Camino walker. Together they reflect on the unique character of the Via de la Plata, the challenges of solitude, and the lessons learned when reality doesn’t match expectations. Their conversation weaves through memorable encounters, moments of deep self-reflection, and...

As Eric crosses the vast plains of Castile and León, the journey begins to shift. Santiago is no longer just a distant idea—it’s a presence on the horizon. In this episode, he reflects on how the changing landscape invites deeper thought, and how the long walk prepares not just the body, but the mind. Drawing from Stoic principles—Amor Fati, voluntary discomfort, self-discipline, reflection, and e...

In this episode, Eric walks through Extremadura, where the days bring more clouds than sunshine and just enough rain to keep things interesting. He explores how we handle life’s unpredictable moments, big or small, and why Stoicism teaches us to accept whatever weather — literal or emotional — comes our way. With muddy paths, damp gear, and quiet country roads as his backdrop, Eric reflects on the...

This episode dives into how facing challenges — whether it’s the blazing sun, long climbs, or life’s everyday struggles — can actually bring us closer to inner peace. Eric shares reflections on how embracing discomfort isn’t about suffering for its own sake, but about building the kind of strength and perspective that makes real freedom possible. It’s a look at how nature, effort, and simple routi...

On the Camino, discomfort is inevitable—blisters, bad weather, no beds, and yes… snoring. In this episode, Eric explores Amor Fati, the Stoic principle of loving one’s fate. Not just tolerating the unpredictable, but embracing it fully. Through the shared realities of albergue life and the daily surprises of pilgrimage, Eric reflects on how the Camino becomes a living classroom for this powerful i...

In this episode, Eric leaves the bustling streets of Seville and begins the slow process of settling into the rhythm of the Camino. As the urban landscape gives way to quiet trails, he reflects on the Stoic idea of accepting what we cannot control and the mental shift that comes with the early days of pilgrimage. The journey has begun—and the road is already teaching. The Camino Stoic is written a...

In this first episode of Via de la Plata Eric Vendley shares the deeply personal story behind his decision to leave behind three decades in Germany—selling his business, his home, and a complex life—to walk the 1,000km Via de la Plata Camino in Spain. As he journeys through sunlit landscapes, Eric dives into Stoic philosophy, seeking clarity, simplicity, and a more intentional way of living. Wheth...

Episode 5 - Summary: How can Stoic philosophy support us in our daily struggles? In this reflective episode, Eric explores four common life situations—uncertainty, anger, solitude, and setbacks—and shows how each of the Stoic virtues can guide our responses. With personal insights from the Camino de la Plata and practical applications, this episode offers a compass for navigating life with steadin...

Episode 4 - Temperence: In today’s world of constant distraction, instant gratification, and overconsumption, the Stoic virtue of Temperance can feel like an ancient relic. But what if it’s exactly what we need to reclaim balance, presence, and peace? In this episode of The Camino Stoic, Eric guides us through the final cardinal virtue—temperance—drawing insights from the Camino de Santiago and th...

Episode 3 - Justice: In this third episode of The Camino Stoic, we explore the Stoic virtue of justice—or dikaiosýnē—and why the Stoics considered it the highest of all virtues. Justice isn't about grand declarations; it's found in the everyday decisions we make when no one is watching. Whether it's giving up a bunk for an injured pilgrim, sharing water in the heat, or listening with patience when...

Episode 2 – Courage: The Quiet Strength to Keep Walking In this second episode of The Camino Stoic, we explore the Stoic virtue of courage—not as fearlessness, but as the moral strength to do what’s right, even when fear, fatigue, and doubt are present. Stoicism calls this kind of bravery andreia—a steady inner resilience that helps us move forward through difficulty, uncertainty, and discomfort....

Episode 1 - Wisdom: In the very first episode of The Camino Stoic, Eric sets the tone for a journey into the heart of Stoic philosophy—grounded not in abstract theory, but in the lived, dusty, footsore experience of walking a very long way. Drawing on his 2024 pilgrimage along the 1,070 km Via de la Plata from Seville to Santiago de Compostela, Eric connects the Stoic virtue of wisdom to the real...

Welcome to The Camino Stoic — a podcast where ancient philosophy meets the long, dusty road. In this short trailer, host Eric shares the inspiration behind the show: a 1,000-kilometer pilgrimage along Spain’s Via de la Plata camino, guided by the principles of Stoic wisdom. Discover what to expect from upcoming episodes, and how walking with intention can lead to greater clarity, resilience, and p...