The Stoic Path to Actually Living with Massimo Pigliucci

Send us Fan MailAbout the guest:Massimo Pigliucci is a philosopher, author, and professor of philosophy at the City College of New York, known for his work in both evolutionary biology and the modern Stoicism movement. He is the author of numerous books, including the acclaimed How to Be a Stoic and The Quest for Character, which bridge classical philosophy and contemporary challenges. With a background in both science and philosophy, Pigliucci brings a unique interdisciplinary lens to questions of ethics, meaning, and personal development. His work has helped popularize Stoic thought for modern audiences, making timeless ideas both accessible and actionable.Connect with Ryan! https://twitter.com/RyanJAyalaConnect with Us! https://www.instagram.com/alchemists.library/Chapters:00:00 Introduction: What Is Stoicism, Really?00:30 Living According to Nature02:45 Solving Anxiety Through Human Nature05:15 Are Humans Really Different From Animals?07:10 Why Stoicism Feels Practical08:20 The Dichotomy of Control Explained13:25 The Serenity Prayer & Stoicism16:50 The Power of Reframing Your Thoughts18:45 Stoicism & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy22:10 Reacting Differently to Everyday Events24:30 Stoicism Beyond Masculinity28:00 Can You Be Stoic and Political?30:45 Stoicism in Sports & Mental Toughness33:55 Relaxed Concentration in Elite Performance35:20 The Stoic Focus on the Present Moment38:10 How to Be a Stoic in Practice41:30 Cold Showers, Fasting & Stoic Discipline43:40 Are “Mind Tricks” Bad If They Work?45:50 Seneca’s Formula for Dealing With Anger52:00 Preventing Anger Before It Starts54:45 Massimo’s Journey Into Stoicism58:40 Massimo’s Writing Routine & Reading Habits01:02:40 Recommended Books & Final ThoughtsConnect with Us!https://www.instagram.com/alchemists.library/https://twitter.com/RyanJAyala