Citizens of the World: A Stoic Podcast for Curious Travelers
This podcast combines Stoic philosophy with practical communication advice for travelers and global citizens. Host Sarah Mikutel, an American expat in England, shares insights on making the most of life through mindfulness and exploration. Each episode encourages listeners to embrace curiosity and live meaningfully.
Episodes
Dolly Parton: My Stoic Mentor
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’m your host, Sarah Mikutel, a commu
Is Being Late Rude? Cultures Disagree on What Time Is and How to Use It
Do you ever feel like people are too blunt – or not direct enough? Do you live by the clock, or are you free with your schedule? Do you like to cut to the chase and get to work, or do you need to warm up first? These are not just individual preferences – they are cultural norms. In this episode, I explore why we are the way we are, and what happens when different cultures collide.Read the article.
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 of coaching have taught me about fitting in versus standing out, and why it matters for anyone worki
The Wrong Way to Listen
Turns out there’s not just one way to listen – there are four, at least according to the authors of Adaptive Listening: How to Cultivate Trust and Traction at Work.In this episode, I share when to use each level of listening, plus the question you should always ask yourself before opening your mouth. Read the article. Read Adaptive Listening. ***I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel, a communication and mi
Happy People Fall in Love with Strangers More
Love isn't what most people think it is. It’s not a bond between partners or family, according to Dr. Barbara Fredrickson – it’s a micro-moment of positivity that resonates in your body when you connect with someone, even with strangers. And the research is clear: The more of these moments you create, the happier and healthier you’ll be. Read the article.Love 2.0 book***I’m your host, Sarah M
Don't Quit. Try This.
The hardest part of starting something new is feeling like you're failing. Before you quit, try the three ideas in this episode to help you get through this "conscious incompetence" phase. You'll learn how to build lasting confidence, and how to recognize the progress you're already making.Read the transcript.***I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel, a communication and mindset coa
Mind Reading Isn't a Sign of Love
Have you ever thought: “If they really loved me, they’d just know without me having to say it.”But expecting someone to intuit your needs isn’t romantic – it’s magical thinking. In this episode, I talk about why unspoken expectations lead to disappointment, the shift you need to make for real connection, and why clarity is one of the most generous things you can offer in a relationship.Read the tr
I Cried During a Knitting Lesson
I cried in my first knitting class and I didn’t know why – it’s not like I’m emotionally invested in making potholders out of yarn.In this episode, I explore the quiet pressure we put on ourselves without realizing it, and how we can give ourselves more grace.Read the transcript***I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel, a communication and mindset coach. My work is about helping people like you share your v
Feel More at Ease When All Eyes are on You
My guest today, Sunalie, is a warm and gifted journalist – and also a former client of mine.During our time together, she had so many meaningful wins. Hearing about the specific shifts she made will help you strengthen your own confidence and communication skills – including how to feel more at ease when all eyes are on you. Sunalie has been with her partner for over 20 years, but they never got m
Virtuous Procrastination: When ‘Doing Good’ Becomes an Avoidance Tactic
Are you procrastinating more than you think you are? In this episode, I’m talking about virtuous procrastination – the act of avoiding discomfort, uncertainty, or purposeful risk by busying yourself with work that appears responsible, generous, and good. Volunteering. Overcommitting. Over-preparing. It looks admirable, but sometimes it’s just a sneaky distraction from what’s most important to you.
Your Comfort Addiction is Costing You
Comfort can quietly cost you the life you really want. When we play it too safe in the name of avoiding unpleasant thoughts or feelings, we drift away from our values and the things that bring meaning, energy, and connection. The Stoics offer a way back through intentional action, self-inquiry, and showing up with integrity – even when it’s uncomfortable.***I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel, a communic
Get to the Point
We often have something meaningful to say – but the way we say it can get in the way. We overload our listener with backstory, hoping to make them understand, and end up muddying the message instead. In this episode, I explore why this happens and how a small shift in how we speak can make a big difference.***I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel, a communication and mindset coach. My work is about helping
Cut Carrie Some Slack: Stoic Musings on Sex and the City
Carrie Bradshaw used to feel relatable. Now we accuse her of being unhinged.But maybe that says more about us than it does about her.Read the article.***I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel, a communication and mindset coach. My work is about helping people like you share your voice, strengthen your relationships, and have more fun.As an American expat living in the U.K., I value curiosity, courage, and j
The Ultimate Comeback: How to Respond to Insults
We’ve all had those moments where an insult or offhand comment sticks in our head. Hours later, we’re still replaying it, wishing we’d come up with the perfect comeback. But what if the strongest response isn’t a clever line at all?In this episode, I explore what the Stoics – and even a surprising scene from Gladiator 2 – can teach us about handling insults and keeping our peace of mind. You’ll he
You've Changed. Let's Honor That.
To move forward, sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is pause and take stock of how far you’ve come. Read the article.***I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel, a communication and mindset coach. My work is about helping people like you share your voice, strengthen your relationships, and have more fun.As an American expat living in the U.K., I value curiosity, courage, and joy. A few things I love
Keep Your Eye on the Prize
I finally became a British citizen after years of putting it off – not because I didn’t qualify, but because perfectionism kept slowing me down. In this episode, I share the real reason I delayed, what happened when I shifted my focus from “perfect” to “done,” and revisit how the concept of maximizers vs. satisficers can help you move forward in your life.Read the article (and come say hi on Subst
When ‘No Filter’ Is Just Lazy (and Sometimes Immoral)
Being blunt isn’t the same as being brave. In a culture that idolizes people who “say whatever they think,” we’ve started confusing impulsiveness for honesty, and arrogance for authenticity.But unfiltered speech isn’t just lazy. Sometimes, it’s harmful.In this episode, I explore the difference between courage and carelessness, and how to practice mindful communication without losing your voice or
How to be Remembered
The Science of Connection: Building Bonds Through Small Acts of LoveIn 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? I explore the science of likability, the concept of “Love 2.0,” and why the smallest gestures – eye contact, laughter, a kind word – have long-lasting emotional and health benefits. T
Make It Stick: A Simple Way to Savor Your Wins
What if the real key to growth isn’t pushing harder, but celebrating more?In this episode, I’m sharing why savoring your wins matters – how it rewires your brain, reinforces your identity, and helps you live in alignment with your values.If you’ve been rushing from one goal to the next, this is your invitation to pause, reflect, and really honor the actions you’re taking.***I’m your host, Sarah Mi
Pursuit of Happiness: What It Really Means
What did the Founding Fathers actually mean when they talked about “the pursuit of happiness” – and how can we apply that wisdom to our lives today? This episode is about what real happiness looks like – not the fireworks version, but the kind that comes from gratitude, good character, and being present for the small moments.***I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel, a communication and mindset coach. My wo
It’s Supposed to Suck Right Now
Struggling to start something new because you're afraid of looking foolish? This episode is your permission slip to begin. You’ll learn how Stoic philosophy and growth mindset can help you move through discomfort, let go of perfectionism, and build real confidence – one imperfect step at a time. If you’ve been overthinking or biting your tongue, this conversation will help you shift into acti
Why You'd Rather Lose Than Be Treated Unfairly
What do abandoned mansions in Bucharest have to do with dirty dishes and emotional resentment?In this episode, I explore how our desire for fairness can lead us to self-sabotage — and how Stoic justice asks us to think beyond pride, punishment, and being right.We’ll walk through a real-world example of decades-long property disputes, connect it to the Ultimatum Game in behavioral economics, and lo
The Truth about Mr. Darcy + Nonviolent Communication Tips for Conflict Resolution
Mr. Darcy has been on my mind this week. Not because he’s the fantasy of so many women, but because I finally read Pride and Prejudice, and discovered something shocking (to me) about him. I’d always thought of Mr. Darcy as this tall, brooding, misunderstood character. The fabulously wealthy, handsome man who everyone thinks is a jerk, but secretly has a heart of gold and wants to take care of you
How to Combat Speaking Anxiety with Stoicism: Stoicon 2024 Talk
Last week, I gave one of the lightning talks at Stoicon 2024. The topic: How to Combat Speaking Anxiety with Stoicism.Want to see the video? Head to my Substack 👉 Citizens of the WorldThanks for listening ❤️sarahmikutel.comDo you ever go blank or start rambling when someone puts you on the spot? I created a free Conversation Cheat Sheet with simple formulas you can use so you can respond with
Introducing Citizens of the World (formerly Live Without Borders)
Live Without Borders is now called Citizens of the world 🎉 This podcast will continue to share how we can thrive through Stoic wisdom, better communication, and global exploration – so why change the name? I explain it all in this episode. Love, Sarahsarahmikutel.comDo you ever go blank or start rambling when someone puts you on the spot? I created a free Conversation Cheat Sheet with simple
Roadtrip through Turkey: Bursa, Ephesus, Pamukkale, and More
Welcome, fellow citizen of the world. Today we are roadtripping through Turkey with my friend Michelle Warner-Martin. Michelle recently roadtripped across Turkey through:BursaEphesusPamukkaleKonyaIstanbul Adana Mersin CappadociaAnd she’s here to highlight the incredible experiences you can when traveling across Turkey. Michelle is a wedding photographer, which allows her to travel in the off seaso
Conflict: 4 Stoic Solutions for Managing Difficult Conversations
Why do we get angry? How can we challenge our immediate reactions? And what's the best way to articulate our feelings without passive aggression or a blow-up? In this episode, you'll learn four Stoic tips to turn potential conflicts into opportunities for personal growth and stronger relationships.Do you ever go blank or start rambling when someone puts you on the spot? I created a
Find the Good in this Very Moment
Travel can be restorative, fun, and, in my opinion, it’s the greatest form of diplomacy there is. Because we get to know people as individuals rather than stereotypes. We develop deeper connections as true citizens of the world. We experience life.Yet travel and trading countries is not a magic pill for happiness. There is no perfect place, and wherever we go, we take our problems with us.I’m read
4 Best Tips to Communicate with Intent and Impact (Stoic style)
Our intentions don’t always line up with our outcomes, and misunderstandings lead to anger, sadness, frustration, and conflict. In this episode, I’ll talk about intent vs impact, which is more important, and how to effectively and ethically communicate your intentions. Of course, I’ll be weaving in the timeless wisdom of the Stoics.Hi, I’m Sarah Mikutel, your communication and mindset coach, an En
Overcome Your Fear of Public Speaking with Stoic Psychology
Introvert Emergency Kit Click here if you're ready to become a less anxious, more charismatic public speaker.When it comes to public speaking, what exactly are you afraid of? Most people I talk to don’t explore their fears at all – and this makes them worse. The thought of public speaking brings up such uncomfortable feelings that they try to ignore them or stuff them down – which is why they
Plovdiv, Bulgaria: Insider Travel Tips on What to See, Do, and Savor
Want to come to Bulgaria with me? For real. My friend Zlatina (who's also today's guest) and I are bringing a small group here for an authentic Balkan experience in May. This is not some naff bus tour. We're inviting a max of 10 world travelers to join us to explore Bulgaria's hidden gems (as well as its most culturally significant sites).Get on the waitlist now so you get pri
How to Stop (Negative) Self-Comparison and Increase Your Confidence
We often hear how negative self-comparisons can be, especially when it comes to social media. But what if we could use comparison as a force for good? A tool to help us grow and flourish at work and in our personal lives? Great news, we can! Today you’ll learn how to stop negatively comparing yourself to others and start measuring your progress in healthier and more productive ways. Plus, you’ll
Self-Mastery: How to Transform Your Life by Taking Control
Have you ever wondered why the richest countries on Earth consistently rank so high in anxiety and depression? Research says this is because we’re so overstimulated by instant gratification that our brains never feel satisfied and become increasingly unhappy in the quest for more. We’re literally addicted to pursuing pleasures that will never satisfy us.The cure to this man-made misery? Self-contr
When You're Interrupted, Do This
Ever been cut off mid-sentence and feel a whirlwind of emotions – frustration, anger, embarrassment? Why do we take interruptions so personally, and how can we handle them with grace?I'm your host, Sarah Mikutel, and in this episode, I dive into effective communication and mindset strategies that will help you be seen and heard. By the end, you'll be equipped to handle interruptions con
(Encore) Bridging the Past and Present: How WWII Values Inspire Purposeful Living
What do courage and resilience truly mean?As the anniversary of D-Day approaches, I reflect on the incredible bravery of the 'Greatest Generation' during World War II, drawing inspiration from my visits to historic locations such as Auschwitz and Churchill's War Rooms in London. From blackouts to rationing, the everyday experiences of European civilians during WWII serve as a testam
Salzburg: Mozart, The Sound of Music, and Much More
In a few days I’m headed to Salzburg, Austria for my friend’s birthday (We need more of these kind of trips! Destination parties should go beyond weddings. Do you agree?)And that’s why today I’m speaking with Vivien Conacher, a trained opera singer from Sydney who now lives in Salzburg.From Mozart's birthplace and Sound of Music locations to the historic fortress and breweries, discover the m
When You Think People Are Judging You
Have you ever noticed how our thoughts and reactions can create unnecessary stress, or cultivate empathy and understanding for others?On a recent flight to Florida, I was reminded of the power of perception and emotional resiliency.I share the story of passengers clapping after a smooth landing, the reactions of those around me as a father rushed to exit the plane, and how the simple words of a ch
Choose a Life Philosophy
Do you have a philosophy that you live your life by?My guest today thinks you should — and so do all the Stoics who came before her.I’m speaking with Brittany Polat, author of Tranquility Parenting: A Guide to Staying Calm, Mindful, and Engaged and Journal Like a Stoic: A 90-Day Stoicism Program to Live with Greater Acceptance, Less Judgment, and Deeper Intentionality. She’s also a steering commi
Cambridge, England: Explore the Best of this University City from Punting to Pubs
Today, we’re exploring the picturesque city of Cambridge, England, home — or at least temporary home — of some of the world’s greatest minds across the centuries. Cambridge is known for its prestigious university, beautiful architecture, and punting — and if you’re not sure what that is, you’ll know by the end of this episode. I’m back with tour guide Sib Jackson, who’s here to share insider tips
How to Start Over
What happens when life upends you? Things seem to be running smoothly, then all of a sudden you lose your job, someone walks out on you, you graduate, you retire. Some big shift happens — now what?Do you ruminate about the past, or do you honor it and reflect on how to move forward?My guest today chose the latter. Sib Jackson is a German living in England as a Cambridge tour guide, amongst other f
Food of the Italian Islands: Sicily, Sardinia, and Beyond
Get ready to be transported to the sun-soaked beaches, charming coastal villages, and rolling hillsides of Sicily, Sardinia, and beyond. Katie Parla is back and just published her third book: Food of the Italian Islands. Katie’s an American who has been living in Rome for about 20 years as a food and beverage writer, culinary guide, and cookbook author.We will be diving deep into the cultural and
Make More Meaningful Connections (Oikeiosis)
What would life be like if we felt more happy connections with people on a regular basis? How can we embrace the wider world and bring people closer to us, even if for a few moments at the seaside? OikeiosisStoics believe we are all citizens of the world, part of one global community. This is Stoic cosmopolitanism. The Stoic philosopher Seneca said: “Our relations with one another are like a stone
The Key to the Good Life: Who You’re With on the Journey
Harvard researchers have been studying what makes people happy for decades. Since 1938, they’ve been following the same people, and then their families, to learn more about what makes a good life. This is the longest-running study of its kind involving hundreds of people across different walks of life. JFK was even involved when he was a student. So what did they discover in this happiness survey?
Sign Up Now: Goal-Setting Workshop Jan 14
I’m hosting a 2023 Goal-Mapping Workshop on Jan. 14. It’s free and a replay will be available for a few days after if you register in advance. This isn’t a lecture – it’s a very interactive session. You’ll:Create a vision for your year that aligns with your values and prioritiesBreak down your big goals into manageable tasks that don't overwhelm youDevelop a plan of action to stay on track an
Keep Your Commitments: The Real Reason People Won’t Change
Around January 1, we set goals that we intend to keep. But most of us break these vows before the month is over – why? What’s the real reason people won’t change? And how can we use Stoicism and modern psychology to start?To truly be free and move forward, we need to cultivate helpful thoughts and let go of unhelpful ones. This is how we become resilient and learn to flow with life instead of figh
Auld Lang Syne: What It Means and Why It Matters
What does Auld Lang Syne mean and why is its message so important?Find out in this episode. Also, Happy New Year! What are your intentions for this year? https://sarahmikutel.com/Do you ever go blank or start rambling when someone puts you on the spot? I created a free Conversation Cheat Sheet with simple formulas you can use so you can respond with clarity, whether you’re in a meeting or jus
This Is Your Second Chance: Stay Present For It
It’s that time of year when we encourage each other to slow down, appreciate what we have, and be present with others. But how do we stay in the moment when our minds keep drifting to what’s happening next week, or what occurred 10 years ago? That’s what this episode is about. sarahmikutel.comDo you ever go blank or start rambling when someone puts you on the spot? I created a free Conversati
Ghana: Must-Have Travel Experiences
Today I’m continuing my conversation with Dr. Chocolate Kristy Leissle. an American who now lives in South Africa.Kristy, author of Cocoa and co-founder of the Cocoapreneurship Institute of Ghana, spent four years living in that country. In this episode, she shares why this part of Africa is so special to her and what we should see and do when we visit Ghana on our travels. sarahmikutel.com❤️Do y
Chocolate: The Politics, Economics, and Cultures of the Cocoa-Chocolate Trade
Chocolate. Lots of us love it. Where does it come from? Who makes it? And how can we be ethical consumers of chocolate? I want the answer to be easy — like, just by such-and-such chocolate bar. But the answer is more complicated than that. Today I’m speaking with cocoa and chocolate scholar (and lover of chocolate) Dr. Kristy Leissle, an American who now lives in South Africa.Kristy, aka Dr. Choco
How to Talk to People Who Drive You Crazy: 5 Stoic Practices
Chances are this holiday season you'll have to talk to at least one person who drives you bananas. But what if this doesn't have to stress you out? What if you could have a good conversation? What if this could be your least angst-filled holiday yet? It can be! Here are five ancient Stoic techniques (backed up by modern psychology) to manage your anger and anxiety when talking to people
Stand for Something (When It’s Easier to Join the Mob)
On a recent trip, I learned that the last so-called witch to be executed in Scotland died in 1727.Of course, there are still people being tortured, killed, and scapegoated around the world today. But we’re more likely to be involved in hanging people on social media.sarahmikutel.comDo you ever go blank or start rambling when someone puts you on the spot? I created a free Conversation Cheat Sh
How to Love Doing the Hard Thing: Stoic Discipline and Eudaimonia
On a recent trip to Scotland, I ate well, I drank well -- didn’t so much sleep well. But I enjoyed just the right amount of indulgence for me on a trip. This kind of happiness is hedonia. Hedonic pleasure is about, well, pleasure. Comfort. Satisfaction. What feels good in the moment. Pleasure coming from external things. A massage after a long day. A bite of flourless chocolate cake. Sprawling out
Starting a Business Abroad: The First Question You Need to Ask Yourself
We’re back with Christine Job, an American business strategist in Spain and host of “Flourish in the Foreign,” a podcast that celebrates and elevates the voices Black women who are thriving abroad.In this mini-episode, Christine shares the first steps to consider if you want to build a business abroad.We’re jumping right into the conversation, where Christine is discussing how her own business has
Walking Spain's Camino de Santiago
Have you ever felt like you’ve hit a brick wall in life? Burned out. Not sure what to do next. This happened to our guest today and she’s here to share how walking the Camino de Santiago, a 500-mile trek across Spain, helped her rediscover her spark. I’m talking to Christine Job, a business strategist and host of “Flourish in the Foreign,” a podcast that celebrates and elevates the voices Black wo
It Doesn’t Have to Upset You
You know when you’re traveling and you see families fuming in the airport or no longer speaking to each other at dinner? Chances are, one of them, or multiple people, blew something out of proportion and are still reacting to it. Why does this happen? How can we be more emotionally resilient, that is, more Stoic, and enjoy a more smoothly flowing life? Let’s dive into why things don’t have to upse
The Best of Buenos Aires, Argentina
Don’t cry for me, Argentina…Sorry, the Evita soundtrack loops in my head when thinking about this South American favorite.Today we are headed to Buenos Aires and friend of the show, Becky Gillespie, is here to share her city favorites.Becky, a digital nomad and host of The School of Travels podcast, has been returning to Argentina for log stretches of time since 2008. In this episode, you’ll learn
Best of Santiago, Chile
The best of Santiago, Chile! I’m continuing my conversation with Steph Dyson, author of the travel book Moon Chile. Today we’re focussing on her favorite travel recommendations for Santiago, Chile, including where to go to:listen to jazzenjoy fine dining without the fine dining priceslearn more about Chilean history and indigenous culturesand more…including how much it costs and the residency situ
Chile Guide: Wine, Patagonia, and Restorative Tourism
We're traveling to Chile today!You may know that part of Patagonia is in Chile, but did you know you can also find 7,000-year-old mummies here? This country is filled with surprises, and there is something for everyone, from surfing and skiing to beaches and hot springs. There are more than 40 national parks, six UNESCO sites, and plenty of award-winning wine. I’m joined by Steph Dyson, a tra
Sicily Food Tour: Scoglitti, Palermo, and More
Imagine this: It’s summer and you’re relaxing on a white sandy beach in Sicily surrounded by culinary delights. Let’s make this dream come true! I’m joined by Carmel Ruggeri, the Italian-Australian who founded Sicilian Food Tours. Her family comes from Scoglitti, a hidden gem of a seaside town that I definitely want to visit the next time I’m on the island. In this episode, Carmel will tell us abo
How to Move to Rome for a Few Months
In 2008, I quit my job and moved to Rome. There was no AirBnB or Instagram. My apartment didn't even have internet! In this episode, I'm sharing a diary of sorts from my time back then. I'm also sharing what I'd do now if I moved to Italy. You'll learn about how to find an apartment in Rome, why language schools aren't the best place to actually learn a language, plus
Travel in 2022
Now is the time to book your summer travel (or winter if you live somewhere like Australia).So where are you headed?My friend and travel buddy Michelle Warner Martin joins me today to talk about what travel has been like for us over the last two years during covid; what the travel scene is like now; and which trips we're excited about in 2022. Michelle is a fantastic photographer whom I trave
May Your Heart Grow Three Sizes Today
How to cultivate loving kindness during the holiday season (and all year!)❤️Hello! I'm your host, Sarah Mikutel. But the real question is, who are you? Where are you now and where do you want to be? Can I help you get there?Visit sarahmikutel.com to learn how we can work together to help you achieve more peace, happiness, and positive transformation in your life.Book your Enneagram typing ses
Goals! How to Achieve Your New Year’s Resolutions
“Putting things off is the biggest waste of life,” Seneca says, “it snatches away each day as it comes, and denies us the present by promising the future. The greatest obstacle to living is expectancy, which hangs upon tomorrow and loses today.” Seneca, On the Shortness of Life.Most of us don’t follow through on our New Year’s Resolutions because we treat them like wishes and not goals. Ideally, i
How to Live More Courageously Part 2
Quick reminder in case you need it…Even if you don’t feel like a particularly courageous person, you’ve acted bravely at some point in your life. Maybe you stood up for someone. Traveled solo. Moved abroad. Said no. Admitted when you were wrong. Jumped out of a plane. Cried in front of someone. You have what it takes to show up courageously every day, but that doesn’t just magically happen. Here a
How to Live More Courageously Part 1
We live in an age of cowards. Of people going along with the crowd because it’s the easy thing to do. It feels safer to throw stones at the other side than it does to stand for something positive and hopeful. There’s risk in questioning things and seeking other perspectives, whereas joining in the mob costs us nothing (except perhaps our character).But maybe things have always been this way. It’s
The History of Thanksgiving (Encore)
Back by popular demand...Happy Thanksgiving, U.S. listeners! This year about 54 million Americans will travel more than 50 miles during Thanksgiving, and most of these people will be driving, estimates AAA. However, it’s a myth that the day before Thanksgiving is the busiest travel day of the year (that honor actually goes to several weekends throughout the summer). But that’s not the only Thanksg
How Long Will You Wait Before You Demand the Best for Yourself?
Janus is the Roman god of beginnings and endings, transitions and passageways, doorways and duality, amongst several other things. And he was one of my favorite sculptures in my town’s art Triennial this year, formally known as the Creative Folkestone Triennial 2021. High up on the East Cliff, in a little park overlooking the ocean, stood this massive head of Janus, who’s typically portrayed with
Montevideo, Uruguay: South American Style with a European Flair
Ever thought about visiting Uruguay? This small nation between Argentina and Brazil isn’t well known to people outside the region, and Karen Higgs is trying to change that.Home to the world’s longest carnival — it lasts 40 days each year — Uruguay is a laid back country with a European flair. You’ll walk around plenty of colonial and art deco buildings as candombe music drums in the streets. You’l
Emotions: How They’re Made & How to Master Them
Where do these emotions come from? What are emotions? How can we cultivate healthy emotions that improve our own wellbeing, and thereby our positive impact on the world? That’s what I want to talk about today.Here's a little taste...Most people think emotions run their lives, but, in her popular Ted Talk, Dr. Lisa Feldman Barrett, says that, “Emotions are not what we think they are...They are
How to Manage Your Mind
Most of our suffering comes from thoughts that we let run wild in our brains. We spend a lot of time each day rehashing different conversations and situations in our mind, and we think that we’re just reviewing facts. But we’re not. We’re reflecting on our own points of view, assuming what others think, worrying about the future, and ruminating about the past.The ancient Stoics understood that our
Tbilisi, Georgia: What to Eat, Drink, & Do as a Traveler, Expat, or Nomad
Lately, I have been obsessed with the country of Georgia, and if you like beaches, mountains, charming old towns, wine regions, and off-the-beaten path places, then you might become obsessed with this former communist state, as well.Emily Lush certainly did. She’s an Australian writer and photographer who moved to Georgia after falling in love with its history, culture, textiles, and architecture,
Summer Break + Special Announcement
It’s my 10-year anniversary in England, and I want to give you a gift. But first, a story. In ancient Rome, when generals rode in on chariots during military processions -- triumphant, everyone cheering -- someone stood behind the general to whisper, 'Hominem te esse memento. Memento mori,' which translates as 'Remember, you are mortal. Remember you will die.' It was a recurrin
Are You a Citizen of the World? (Plus Pompeii History!)
In this episode, I am back with my friend Kai Whiting, co-author of the book Being Better: Stoicism for a World Worth Living In. Kai is a researcher and lecturer in sustainability and Stoicism currently living in Lisbon, Portugal.If you’re into ancient ruins, you will love the beginning of our interview, where Kai talks about the research he conducted in Pompeii. And then we spend a lot of the con
Cancel Culture, or Conversation Culture: What Really Helps Society?
As a listener of this podcast, you’ve already heard me talk about how the ancient philosophy of Stoicism offers guidance on how we can live the good life in the modern world. How to be less stressed. How to be a better listener. How to be more productive. But Stoicism is about more than improving ourselves on an individual level, it’s about improving our communities and being an active member of s
Wild Camping: What to Know Before You Go
Do you enjoy camping? I was a campground manager in a state forest for two years when I was in college, and I never slept there. I like sleeping in beds.But…occasionally someone convinces me to go camping and when that happens, I always have a good time. In the last episode, my guest Kathi and I talked about the Scottish Isles you need to visit. Today Kathi is back to talk about Wild Camping. What
Island Hopping In Scotland: Tiree, Islay, Treshnish, and More!
Did you know that Scotland has around 790 islands? One has been compared to Hawaii; another is famous for its whisky; another is the perfect place to take photos of puffins.And we’ll be talking about all of them today!One of my favorite previous guests is back to take us on a Scottish island hopping adventure.I’m joined by Kathi Kamleitner, whom you heard on the Glasgow episode. Kathi hosts the po
Cheap Flights! Get the Best Airfare Through Serendipitous Travel
What’s the cheapest flight you ever got? It felt kind of thrilling to get that deal, didn’t it? Set your trip off on the right foot?Today I’m joined by Scott Keyes of Scott’s Cheap Flights. He’s got a new book out called Take More Vacations, which discusses his travel philosophy and also all his best tips on how to find the cheapest airfare, best accommodation prices, and more. But this isn’t just
Flying: What You Need to Know about Travel in 2021
All right, travel is back! Or we’re getting there.As more people get vaccinated against covid-19, more countries are opening up — and the rules for flying are frequently changing.My guest today is Scott Keyes of Scott’s Cheap Flights, and he’s got his finger on the pulse of everything airfare. He’s here to tell us what we need to know before booking or boarding our next flight.Hello! I'm your
Czechoslovakia: Post-Communist Expat Adventures
Czechoslovakia doesn’t exist anymore. But it did when my American friend moved there in the early 1990s. Today, we tend to think of Europe as being one of the most free regions of the world. Pro-human rights. It can be difficult to imagine how many Central and Eastern Europeans lived under Communism until the revolutions of 1989.The Communist regime in Czechoslovakia was brutal until the people ki
Design Your Ideal Day
Today I am back with my friend Stephen Warley to continue our conversation on life skills that matter. In this episode we get more into the specifics about how to live a good life. A simple life. One that will give you more energy and inner peace. Stephen shares what his days look like, and hopefully this will inspire you to consider what your ideal day would look like, and how to start living it.
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