Dolly never got defensive, never needed the last word, and knew exactly who she was. Based on how she lived her life, she seems like the type of person to ask: “What's the right thing to do?” Now I'm using “What would Dolly do?” as the question to guide my life – I may even tattoo this! Here are three reasons I chose Dolly Parton as my Stoic mentor. *** I’ ... Show More
Mar 2026
Jantelagen: What a Swedish Flatmate Taught Me about Fitting In versus Standing Out
There's an unwritten rule in Swedish culture called the Law of Jante: Don't think you're special. Don't stand out. Blend in. It’s the opposite of American individualism – and both sides have a shadow. In this episode, I explore what a Swedish flatmate, living in Italy, and years ... Show More
11m 29s
May 2025
How to Get Out of Your Own Way
In this episode, we explore how our judgments—not external events—shape our emotional world, from a child’s toy envy to ancient Stoic parables and the quiet wisdom of Nan Shepherd.Using Epictetus’s insights and Shepherd’s meditative reflections, we examine how reclaiming control ... Show More
5m 36s
Oct 2024
Don't care more about others than yourself
<p>This really spontaneously recorded episode of young, confused and well-read is all about comparison, inner confidence and learning to find peace within yourself so your personal struggle doesn't hurt others. Sometimes I have a lot of thoughts in my head and today, I felt like ... Show More
26m 51s
<p>The Science of Connection: Building Bonds Through Small Acts of Love</p><p><br/></p><p>In this episode, I share a brief moment with my nephew that opened up a bigger question: How do we create the kind of presence that people remember? </p><p><br/></p><p>I explore the science ... Show More