Ep. 286 - Stoicism, Christianity, and Sports w/Dr. Michael Tremblay

Oct 24, 2025

Dr. Michael Tremblay, a Stoic philosopher and black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, explores the fascinating intersection of Stoicism, sports, and Christianity. He delves into the teachings of Epictetus, emphasizing athletic metaphors to illustrate Stoic principles. The discussion highlights how athletes embody resilience, reframe adversity, and practice virtues in daily life. Tremblay also connects virtuous living to Christian ethics, providing insightful comparisons and practical applications for embracing Stoicism in one's existence.

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INSIGHT

Epictetus As The Tough Coach

Epictetus is a Roman Stoic who rose from slavery to found a school and teach philosophy as practical training.
His tone is tough, like a no-nonsense coach whipping privileged students into moral shape.

INSIGHT

Happiness As Flourishing

Ancient philosophy treated philosophy as a way of life aiming for eudaimonia, flourishing or a blessed life.
Happiness is judged by whether someone lived a great life, not by momentary pleasure.

INSIGHT

Virtue Is The Core Good

Stoics identify the good life with virtue (arete): excellence in being human.
They claim virtue alone secures happiness even amid severe external suffering.

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Grab a copy of issue one of my new philosophical science fiction & fantasy magazine here: https://www.etsy.com/shop/ParkerZines In episode 286 of the Parker's Pensées Podcast, I'm joined once again by my friend, Dr. Michael Tremblay. This time we try to get into his paper on stoicism and sports but I continually derail us into talking about Christianity and Stoicism. Consider supporting this podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/parkersettecase→ Grab a ParkNotes exclusive "Study and Think Deeply" leather cover and Leuchtturm1917 a6 from Murdy Creative Co. here: Check out https://murdycreative.co/PARKERNOTES and use promo code PARKERNOTES at check out for 10% off your entire order!! → Paper Republic is offering a 30% off discount on their voyager bundles for my audience (this isn't an affiliate link, so I don't make commission on your purchase but I figured it'd be nice to get you a discount anyways!). Check them out and use PARKERPR30 for the 30% off: https://www.paper-republic.com/en-us/collections/bundles→ More Sponsors/Discounts Grab a Field Notes notebook or memo book wallet like the one from the video from my affiliate link here to support my work and use promo code FNPARKER10 for 10% off your entire order: https://fieldnotesbrand.com/products/daily-carry-leather-notebook-cover?aff=44Grab a Lochby field journal and use promo code PARKNOTES at checkout for 10% offhttps://www.lochby.com/parknotesGrab a Saddleback Leather medium Moleskine/Leuchtturm1917 cover from my affiliate link here to support my channel: https://saddlebackleather.com/leather-moleskine-cover-medium/?ktk=d0pac01BLWJmZWY1MmZiYTFiMail me something cool here:Parker Settecase 1940 N Municipal Way Unit # 369Round Lake, IL 60073You can find the notebooks and pens I like here on my Amazon Storefront page or in the sponsored links below:→My Amazon Storefront https://www.amazon.com/shop/parkerspensees/list/UPGTZW0UNTTN?ref_=cm_sw_r_apann_aipsflist_aipsfparkerspensees_P1F6N9TD2HE0FYHF5C70&language=en_US→ Parker's Pensées Podcast:if you're into philosophy, theology, or both, you're going to love my podcast, Parker's Pensées, where I talk with some of the world's best philosophers and theologians about their work. Check it out here: https://youtube.com/@ParkersPensees → GearCamera: https://amzn.to/3OcSIXRLens: https://amzn.to/3OcSIXRMic: https://amzn.to/3DEYz360:00 - Stoicism and the New Testament 9:38 - Who is Epictetus? 17:03 - What is Stoicism? (10 core ideas)42:43 - Stoicism and Sport | Lessons for Life