Diogenes the Cynic a predecessor to Stoicism and Alexander the Great were cut from very different cloths, but when Alexander the Great came to Diogenes their supposed meeting gave us one of the most legendary favors ever asked for of a king.

Bruce recaps his time in his hammock and in nature. We discuss the shocking revelations that Bruce unearthed during Bruce-Con, his annual conference of just himself.

We go in depth about opinions, the Stoic views on opinions as expressed by Marcus Aurelius and their inability to affect the world around us. Just as Bruce's opinions about the sun's presence (annoyance or affection) didn't change the sun's positioning in the sky, so our opinions don't affect the things in the world, nor do other's opinions of us need to affect us.

Join us in this episode as we present a reading of Book 3 from Marcus Aurelius' "Meditations." This chapter offers profound insights into the fleeting nature of life, the importance of living according to reason and nature, and the virtues of self-discipline and simplicity. Marcus reflects on the inevitability of death and encourages embracing the present moment. He emphasizes the need for inner tranquility through rational thinking and the alignment of one's actions with the natural order. Listen in as we explore these timeless stoic teachings and how they can inspire a virtuous and fulfilling life.

This week we dive into Book 2 of Meditations by Marcus Aurelius, we begin with Justin’s current sparing partner for equanimity, namely his Kia catching on fire. Then we move into the acronym: M.O.M.A which breaks down the four main ways that Marcus discusses that the soul can do violence to itself.

But, because we don’t dwell on the negative, we then move into B.E.T.R. Which is the remedy to soul violence.

All of that work helps prepare us to live in cooperation with others and we discuss the beauty of Interdependence. For the Stoic Reimagining we introduce you to the quirky yet powerful “Benjamin Franklin Effect.”

As part of our Meditations Series we are reading George Long's translation of Meditations by Marcus Aurelius in an Audiobook format.

In Book 2 of "Meditations," Marcus Aurelius delves into Stoic philosophy, emphasizing acceptance of death, the impermanence of life, and the pursuit of inner peace through rationality and virtue. He discusses the importance of mindfulness, fulfilling one's duties, and understanding our interconnectedness with others. This book serves as a guide to living a meaningful life by focusing on personal growth, self-awareness, and gratitude. It's timeless wisdom on navigating life's challenges with grace and resilience.

Next week we'll be back with our regular format to discuss themes from this chapter.

How do you go from getting a knee surgery to qualify to going to the Olympics in less than 12 months?

In honor of Book 1 of Meditations this week we are talking about some of the heroes in our lives and what we've learned from them. Bruce chronicles the story of watching his friend become an Olympian and Justin recounts an authority figure he actually respects (who would've guessed?)

Then for our Stoic reimagining we take you into the show of "Dear Marcus" where a clueless radio show host David Monroe helps (or tries to help) everyday people with their Stoic challenges.

Stick around for the whole show! It's a good one.

This week we explore the Meditations by Marcus Aurelius Book 1, and in the words that Justin says at the book club that Bruce wasn't invited to, "What a Chapter!" We pull apart 11 different phrases from the first chapter of what we would like to be.

We discuss the forgotten art of learning from the best in other people, and how to find joy in learning from other people's virtues. Then as a treat at the end of the episode for our Stoic Reimagining we share with you some exotic outtakes of some of the more experimental versions we tried of reading Meditations...

As part of our Meditations Series we are reading George Long's translation of Meditations by Marcus Aurelius in an Audiobook format. Next week we'll be back with our regular format to discuss themes from this chapter.

30 episodes in and we are finally ready to officially introduce you to Marcus Aurelius himself. In this episode we give you a bio of Marcus's life from beginning to end so that you can have a better understanding of who he was and why he wrote the Meditations.

This episode kicks off "Meditations" series, where we will start by reading you a chapter from The Meditations and then on the next episode we will explore themes and takeaways.

We also explain why The Meditations is a book that has maintained relevance for close to two thousand years, and how to get the most out of reading it.

At the end we debunk some of the funny (and bizarre fake history) that we found while researching Marcus. As well as debunking a Steve Jobs letter that he supposedly wrote at the end of his life.