The Philosophy of Epictetus: Freedom through Stoic Wisdom
Ep. 106

The Philosophy of Epictetus: Freedom through Stoic Wisdom

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Episode description

In this video we dive deep into the life and teachings of Epictetus, the former slave whose Stoic wisdom still powers modern psychotherapy, leadership, and everyday resilience.

🔹 From Slavery to Sage – Discover how a man born into bondage rose to mentor Roman emperors and inspired generations of thinkers. 🔹 The Core Lesson: The Dichotomy of Control – Learn the simple yet transformative habit of separating what’s up to you from what isn’t, and why it’s the foundation of true freedom. 🔹 Prohairesis – Your Inner Citadel – Explore the Greek concept of volition and how it protects your mind against any external circumstance. 🔹 Practical Exercises – Morning prep, evening review, and the “impression‑judgment‑response” loop you can start using tonight. 🔹 Legacy & Modern Impact – From Marcus Aurelius to CBT, see how Epictetus’ ideas shape leaders, therapists, and everyday people today.

đź’ˇ Why it matters now: In an age of uncertainty, anxiety, and endless distractions, Epictetus offers a timeless toolkit for mental clarity, ethical living, and resilient happiness.

To connect or support check out my gravatar page https://gravatar.com/lyonleshley Check out my library of these lectures translated into 28 languages https://library.leshley.ca/

00:00 - Introducing Epictetus: The Slave Who Taught Freedom 01:40 - Early Life and Enslavement in Nero’s Rome 03:20 - Gaining Freedom and Studying Philosophy 04:22 - Exile to Nicopolis and Founding a School 06:42 - The Dichotomy of Control: Core Stoic Principle 11:46 - Prohairesis: The Inner Citadel and Unconquerable Fortress 14:52 - Modern Application and Practical Exercises 18:09 - Living According to Nature: Virtue and Harmony 22:00 - Welcoming Challenges as Opportunities for Growth 24:35 - Philosophy as Transformation: Character in Action 32:52 - The Enchiridion: A Practical Handbook for Living 36:58 - Tested Under Fire: Stoicism in Extreme Circumstances 41:37 - Distinguishing Real Stoicism from Toxic Misconceptions 50:37 - Enduring Legacy: From Marcus Aurelius to Modern Therapy 58:26 - Modern Relevance: Navigating Uncertainty and Building Resilience 01:08:27 - Ethical Living in a Complex World

“Hello, curious minds! I’m Lyon Leshley, a passionate educator with over 20 years of experience. I am taking full advantage of the AI revolution to provide free education content. At my YouTube, Rumble, and Odysee channels we dive deep into the fascinating worlds of philosophy, history, literature, science, and so much more.”

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Video lectures with subtitles translated into 28 languages are available at https://www.youtube.com/@learn.w.leshley and https://tube.leshley.ca/

No chapters are available for this episode.