How does a man born into slavery become the mentor of emperors and the architect of inner freedom? In this episode, we explore the life of Epictetus (c. 50 – c. 135 AD), a Greek Stoic philosopher whose teachings on self-discipline remain vital nearly two millennia later.

We trace his origins in Hierapolis, where he received the name Epictetus—literally meaning "acquired"—and served a wealthy secretary to the Emperor Nero in Rome. Despite his low social status and a physical disability, he obtained a passion for philosophy, studying under the Stoic Musonius Rufus before eventually gaining his manumission.

Key topics in this episode include:

• The Exile: How Emperor Domitian’s banishment of philosophers led Epictetus to establish his influential school in Nicopolis, Greece.
• The Dichotom ...