This week I'm joined by Professor Matthew Sharpe, National Head of School of Philosophy at ACU and co-author of 'Philosophy as a Way of Life: Philosophy as a Way of Life: History, Dimensions, Directions'.
Stoicism is a philosophy that's been around for more than 2,000 years, but its lessons feel more relevant today than ever. In this conversation, we unpack the practical ideas that have helped shape the way I think about adversity, anxiety, relationships and living a meaningful life.
We dive into the foundations of Stoicism, where it came from, why it has stood the test of time, and how simple daily practices can help us stop worrying about the things we can't control. Whether you're completely new to Stoicism or you've already picked up Meditations, I think you'll take something valuable away from this conversation.
We talk:
What Stoicism actually is (and the biggest misconceptions about it)
The simple question that can help stop overthinking
Why strength of character matters more than money, status or success
How to focus on what you can control and let go of what you can't
Why adversity is essential for growth and resilience
The Stoic exercises that can improve your mindset every day
How Marcus Aurelius used Stoicism to lead through crisis
The "two goals" framework that can change the way you approach work and life
Why seeking validation from others will never lead to lasting happiness
How reflecting on your day can help you become a better version of yourself
Professor Matthew Sharpe's Stoicism reading list:
Meditations — Marcus Aurelius
Enchiridion (The Manual) — Epictetus
The Inner Citadel — Pierre Hadot
How to Think Like a Roman Emperor — Donald Robertson
If this episode resonates with you, share it with someone who might need to hear it.
Like the ep? Share the ep! Review the ep!
Hit the NEW Dyl & Friends feeds below:
Dyl & Friends New Spotify Feed
Dyl & Friends New Apple Podcasts Feed
Stoicism is a philosophy that's been around for more than 2,000 years, but its lessons feel more relevant today than ever. In this conversation, we unpack the practical ideas that have helped shape the way I think about adversity, anxiety, relationships and living a meaningful life.
We dive into the foundations of Stoicism, where it came from, why it has stood the test of time, and how simple daily practices can help us stop worrying about the things we can't control. Whether you're completely new to Stoicism or you've already picked up Meditations, I think you'll take something valuable away from this conversation.
We talk:
What Stoicism actually is (and the biggest misconceptions about it)
The simple question that can help stop overthinking
Why strength of character matters more than money, status or success
How to focus on what you can control and let go of what you can't
Why adversity is essential for growth and resilience
The Stoic exercises that can improve your mindset every day
How Marcus Aurelius used Stoicism to lead through crisis
The "two goals" framework that can change the way you approach work and life
Why seeking validation from others will never lead to lasting happiness
How reflecting on your day can help you become a better version of yourself
Professor Matthew Sharpe's Stoicism reading list:
Meditations — Marcus Aurelius
Enchiridion (The Manual) — Epictetus
The Inner Citadel — Pierre Hadot
How to Think Like a Roman Emperor — Donald Robertson
If this episode resonates with you, share it with someone who might need to hear it.
Like the ep? Share the ep! Review the ep!
Hit the NEW Dyl & Friends feeds below:
Dyl & Friends New Spotify Feed
Dyl & Friends New Apple Podcasts Feed

