Of course, it was too good to be true. When University of Michigan professor Scott Hershovitz heard his young son screaming for a “philosopher,” he should have known there was some mistake.
“Hank, Hank!” Scott called out, “I am a philosopher, what do you need?” Hank, unimpressed, shot back, “You’re not a philosopher… there’s something stuck in my teeth!”
No child thinks they need a philosopher. In fact, most adults don’t either. Yet, no matter our age, we all have problems. Some problems just require a flosser… while others need a bit of wisdom.
In the ancient world, however, people actually did seek out philosophers. When Zeno washed up in Athens after a shipwreck, he heard a story about Socrates and famously asked, “Where can I find a man like that?” Philosophy, after all, is supposed to be about more than abstract ideas—it’s about living wisely. Philosophers, at their best, are the ones who help us do just that.
Marcus Aurelius, in his Meditations, didn’t aspire to be a “pen and ink philosopher.” He wanted to be someone who lived by his philosophy—someone who solved problems, modeled virtue, and was a reliable guide for others.
And what role in life demands philosophy more than parenting? It calls on us to be wise, just, disciplined, and brave. It requires us to be rational, even when we’re running on no sleep. Parenting asks us to keep the bigger picture in mind and to learn from the wisdom of those who have walked this path before us.
Philosophy—especially Stoicism—isn’t just theory. It’s practical, useful, and applicable in modern struggles we engage with daily. It challenges us, but it also helps us rise to meet life’s challenges. It makes us dependable, a source of strength for others. Philosophy offers meaning, direction, and purpose—it’s not just abstract questions, but real counsel for how to live well.
That’s why we study it. That’s why we practice it, together, every day. And it’s why we created Stoicism 101: Ancient Philosophy for Your Actual Life. It’s built around these timeless principles to help you navigate your own life—whether you’re dealing with something stuck in your teeth or something much bigger.
It’s an awesome, accessible, and practical two-week deep dive into Stoic lessons, habits, and history that every parent (and even older kids) can benefit from. We’re teaching the Stoic secrets to success, resilience, and productivity, as well as how a Stoic masters their emotions (something useful for both parents AND kids!).
The course includes 2 live Q&As with Ryan Holiday where you can ask all your Stoicism-related questions. And you will have access to a private discussion board to ask questions, share thoughts, and interact with other people taking Stoicism 101.
Why don’t you join us?
This LIVE course begins in just THREE days on MONDAY, OCTOBER 28TH. Head here to sign up today!
