Most People Miss This in Marcus Aurelius' Meditations | The Everyday Stoic
Why do so many people tell you to skip Book One of Meditations? In this episode, William challenges that advice and dives deep into why the first chapter of Marcus Aurelius’ writings might be the most profound. Far from being a simple list of thank-yous, Book One is a blueprint for modeling virtue - an ancient Stoic exercise that teaches us how to learn from everyone around us.William unpacks how Marcus used real people—from his grandfather to mentors and beyond—to shape his moral compass and how we can do the same. From the passion of Steve Irwin to the compassion of Fred Rogers, we explore how modern examples can become our own "purple threads," guiding us toward a better self.This episode is a guide to practical stoicism, reflective journaling, and character modeling - showing how Meditations is more than a diary; it’s a manual for becoming who you wish to be.
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The Stoic Answer to Suffering - What to Do When You Feel Broken | The Everyday Stoic
Are you facing hardship, grief, or overwhelming challenges? In this episode, William explores how Stoic philosophy reframes suffering—not as punishment, but as a path to personal greatness.Drawing from the ancient myth of Hercules and timeless Stoic metaphors, William shows how adversity is life’s greatest teacher. Learn why the Stoics saw every painful trial as a gift, how to find strength through suffering, and why accepting pain is essential to personal growth.Whether you’re navigating grief, battling setbacks, or simply feeling lost, this episode offers grounded wisdom to help you rise above. Remember: your pain has a purpose, and your character is forged in the fire of difficulty.
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Stoicism Can Turn Chaos Into Calm - How it Helps Me as a New Parent | The Everyday Stoic
In this episode, William shares how discovering he was going to be a father in 2023 led him down an unexpected yet transformative path. Guided by Stoic principles, William reflects on how the ancient philosophy has helped him navigate the emotional highs and lows of raising a child. From sleepless nights to milestones, he explores how Stoicism encourages us to embrace the full spectrum of parenting - seeing the chaos and beauty as two inseparable sides of the same coin.Rather than chasing perfection or succumbing to the pressures of judgment and social media, William emphasizes the importance of presence. This episode is a Stoic meditation on acceptance, resilience, and what it truly means to be a good parent. Whether you’re a parent, soon-to-be, or simply care for others, this reflection offers grounded wisdom to help you stay steady, present, and kind through it all.
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Stoicism and God | The Everyday Stoic
In one of the most frequently asked episodes yet, William dives deep into the age-old question: Do the Stoics believe in God? Whether you're religious, spiritual, agnostic, or atheist, this episode of The Everyday Stoic brings clarity to Stoicism’s stance on the divine, the cosmos, and the human soul.William explores how early Stoics like Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius spoke of God, fate, and Zeus not as separate religious deities, but as personifications of universal reason. More importantly, he explains how Stoicism isn’t a religion, but a philosophy of living according to nature and virtue.Learn how the Stoic path invites everyone—regardless of faith—to recognize the divine spark within, live with purpose, and become a better person. If you've ever wondered, Can I be Stoic and religious? Can I be an atheist and still follow Stoicism?—this episode is for you.
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5 Spartan Rules For Mental Toughness | The Everyday Stoic
In this episode, we uncover the powerful connection between the Stoics and the Spartans - two ancient schools of thought united by discipline, resilience, and an unshakable will. Discover how Marcus Aurelius and other Stoic thinkers were inspired by Spartan ideals, and how you can channel that same strength in your own life.William explores five key Spartan rules that forged mental toughness - rules that still apply in our modern world of distractions and comfort. Through stories of harsh training, ancient wisdom, and personal insight, you’ll learn how Stoic and Spartan values intersect to create a mindset built for adversity.
The Everyday Stoic is hosted by William Mulligan, Author of the book "The Everyday Stoic : The Simple Rules for a Good Life". He is also widely recognised as one of the Mulligan Brothers a network of social pages and films with the missions of inspiring change around the world.
Ireland