Let me introduce myself: I’m Alex, the podcast editor behind The Via Stoica Podcast and founder of Badmic.com. But before I became the “invisible hand” shaping the show’s sound, I was just another person drowning in the chaos of modern life. This isn’t just a story about how Stoicism changed me—it’s about how this podcast became my unexpected teacher, my therapy, and ultimately, my purpose.
From Audio Engineer to Stoic Student: My Unlikely Journey
When Brice, Brendan, and Benny first approached me to edit their podcast, I thought it’d be another job—cutting ums, smoothing silences, and making voices sound crisp. But as I sat in my studio, headphones on, listening to their conversation about Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations, something shifted.
The hosts weren’t just talking about Stoicism; they were arguing, laughing, and wrestling with it.
Sometimes I pause the edit. Here are three flawed humans using ancient philosophy to navigate modern meltdowns. Suddenly, my job feel less like technical work and more like curating wisdom.
Editing Stoicism: Cutting the Noise, Finding the Signal
Stoicism, I’ve learned, is about discerning what’s essential. Editing this podcast taught me the same skill.
Early on, I’d obsess over making every episode “perfect”—removing every breath, every stumble. Then Benny said off-air: “Alex, leave the humanity in. A pause isn’t a mistake; it’s someone thinking.” That hit me like a Stoic revelation.
Now, when I edit, I channel Epictetus: “We have two ears and one mouth so we can listen twice as much as we speak.” I listen for the substance beneath the noise. That time Brendan’s voice cracked discussing grief? I left it in. These aren’t errors—they’re proof these ideas are lived, not just lectured.
Why I Want You to Hear the “Mistakes”
In our hyper-polished world, The Via Stoica Podcast stands out because it’s real. When you hear:
- A coffee cup clinking during a profound moment
- Benny forgetting Seneca’s name (again)
- The hosts’ genuine “aha!” silences
…that’s me, choosing authenticity over perfection. As Marcus Aurelius wrote: “Waste no time arguing what a good podcast should sound like. Make one.”
Your Invitation to the Journey
Editing this podcast didn’t just teach me Stoicism—it taught me editing is Stoicism. Both are about:
- Cutting the unnecessary
- Focusing on what serves the greater good
- Embracing imperfection as part of growth
So whether you’re a listener or a fellow creative, I challenge you:
- Start Small: Try their “Stoic Quotes Series”—I edited those to feel like wisdom snacks.
- Embrace the Mess: Next time you fail, ask: “What would Brice, Brendan, or Benny say here?” (Spoiler: “Keep going.”)
- Find Your Tribe: Join their X. Yes, even editors lurk there
Brice, Brendan, Benny—and yes, Me, the editor stitching their voices into coherence—aren’t gurus. They’re guides—fellow travelers who’ve found light in Stoicism and want to share it. As Marcus Aurelius wrote: “Waste no more time arguing what a good person should be. Be one.” This podcast doesn’t just argue about Stoicism; it embodies it.
🚀 Ready to Transform Your Life? Here’s Your Starting Point:
- First-Time Listener? Try the “Stoic Quotes Series”—bite-sized episodes packed with wisdom.
- Need Calm? The “Control Anger” episode is a game-changer.
- Join the Conversation: Follow them on YouTube for live Q&As.
Stoicism won’t erase life’s storms. But as this podcast taught me, it’ll help you dance in the rain—or at least face it with unshakable calm.
What’s your Stoic story waiting to be written? 🌟
P.S. If this resonated, tag someone who needs Stoic grit in their life. And remember—as the hosts (and their editor) say— “Wisdom isn’t a destination. It’s the path.”
Alex, Editor at Badmic.com & Reluctant Stoic
