

Einzelgänger
Einzelgänger
Einzelgänger explores a wide range of topics and ideas, with a dose of "as I see it," out of curiosity and creative urge.Einzelgänger is under the supervision of the Dutch Regulatory Media Authority (Commissariaat voor de Media).*Disclaimer: The material provided by Einzelgänger isn't a clinical/medical service or replacement of mental health professionals, nor an academic resource.Disclaimer: This audio project is an independent interpretation of content originally created by Einzelgänger. It was made by a listener who resonates deeply with the channel’s quiet reflections on philosophy, solitude, and self-mastery — and seeks to share that experience in a format suited for stillness, movement, or anything in between. This is not an official production of Einzelgänger, nor is it affiliated with or endorsed by the creator. All rights to the original material remain with Einzelgänger. If you represent the channel and wish to get in touch regarding this adaptation, please feel free to reach out.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 1, 2026 • 15min
TAOISM | The Art of Doing without Doing | Einzelgänger
TAOISM | The Art of Doing without Doing
Taoism for Inner Peace (book): https://einzelganger.co/tao/Have you ever reflected on the word ‘doing’? ‘Doing’ points to performance, achievement, effort. It also implies that there’s a ‘doer’ who engages in ‘doing something’, and that there’s a passive element or ‘the thing that’s being done’.But does it work that way? Is there a separation between the thing that ‘does’ and the thing that’s ‘being done’? Or is the thing that does actually what’s being done and vice versa? Ancient Taoist writers might urge us to think about ‘doing’ (and ‘not doing’) a bit differently than we’re used to. At the root of Taoist philosophy lies the idea of an allencompassing force called Tao, from which all elements of the universe derive.The flow of existence is something we can live by or resist. If we follow the Tao, our lives will be easy. But if we try to resist, our lives will be difficult. When we’re mainly focused on striving and straining, because we’re convinced that only through ‘effort’ we’ll get where we need to be, we may be swimming against the stream.So, what if ‘doing’ isn’t always necessary to get things done? What if many of our actions are a waste of time and energy? What if we can take shortcuts in life if we learn how to embark on the natural course?This video explores the paradoxical art of doing without doing (Taoism), and how we can live life the smart way (TAOISM | The Art of Doing Without Doing).Support the channel:
✔️ PayPal: https://www.paypal.me/einzelgangerco
✔️ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/einzelgangster
✔️ Bitcoin: 3HQnEz1LQ4G6dqN2LdZgzc7qoJjJCyWjTC
(Donated BTC and want in the credits? Send me an email with the amount/address)Purchase my book (affiliate links):
📘 Paperback: https://amzn.to/2RJYfti
💻 Ebook: https://amzn.to/35e23a5Social media:
🖼️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/einzelganger.philosophy/
📰 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/einzelgangerphilosophyMerchandise:
🛍️ Shop: https://teespring.com/stores/einzelgangerstore
🛍️ Merchandise design by Punksthetic Art:
https://www.youtube.com/user/JRStoneart🎵 Music used:
Silent Partner Dinner For One
Jessie Gallagher Spirit of Fire
Jessie Gallagher The Sleeping ProphetCreative Commons (attributions):Lao Tzu statue: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Statue_of_Lao_Tzu_in_Quanzhou.jpg
Pollution: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Pollution_,_time_to_wake_up.jpg
Illma Gore: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Illma_Gore_during_performance_art_piece.png
Clock: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Schaffhausen__Schwabentor__Tower_clock.jpg00:00 Intro
02:18 Are we doing or being done?
05:15 Resisting the flow of nature
08:00 Doing without doing#TAOISM #TAO #LAOTZU
Turn on notifications for the podcast & rate it a 5star for new episodes.
Einzelgänger explores a wide range of topics and ideas, with a dose of "as I see it," out of curiosity and creative urge.
Einzelgänger is under the supervision of the Dutch Regulatory Media Authority (Commissariaat voor de Media).
*Disclaimer: The material provided by Einzelgänger isn't a clinical/medical service or replacement of mental health professionals, nor an academic resource.
Disclaimer: This audio project is an independent interpretation of content originally created by Einzelgänger. It was made by a listener who resonates deeply with the channel’s quiet reflections on philosophy, solitude, and selfmastery - and seeks to share that experience in a format suited for stillness, movement, or anything in between. This is not an official production of Einzelgänger, nor is it affiliated with or endorsed by the creator. All rights to the original material remain with Einzelgänger. If you represent the channel and wish to get in touch regarding this adaptation, please feel free to reach out.
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Keywords: epictetus, existential crisis, philosophical reflection Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 1, 2026 • 15min
The Man Who Hated The World (Animated Short Story) | Einzelgänger
The Man Who Hated The World (Animated Short Story)
In a dirty prison cell, there lived a man who dedicated his whole life to isolating himself from the world. As opposed to most prisoners, he wasn’t put there against his will. This man voluntarily lived in a prison cell, knowing that he could walk out anytime he wanted. Nevertheless, he never tried.“Why should I?” he told himself every time this annoying voice tried to persuade him to leave. “The world is a disgusting place,” he uttered. “And in here, at least I’m safe”.He was a loner, without a doubt. But he didn’t choose solitude because he loved his own company. He did it because he hated the world.The Man Who Hated The World is a (motivational) short story about a man who suffers from severe existential angst. On top of that, he is tormented by an annoying voice that tries to persuade him to leave his cell. Even though he hates almost everything that the world has to offer, he does like the sea. Unfortunately, he is too scared to go out and visit.Rather, he enjoys the safety of his cell, and his resolve is strengthened by the misery that overcomes the people around him. But is he truly as safe as he thinks he is?Credits:Written by: Einzelgänger
Animation & narration: Einzelgänger
Story editing & advice: Fleur Marie VazMusic used:The Tides Somnolent
Quincas Moreira Mariposa
The 126ers Rage
Myuu Lurking ShadowsSupport the channel:
✔️ PayPal: https://www.paypal.me/einzelgangerco
✔️ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/einzelgangster
✔️ Bitcoin: 3HQnEz1LQ4G6dqN2LdZgzc7qoJjJCyWjTC
(Donated BTC and want in the credits? Send me an email with the amount/address)Purchase my book (affiliate links):
📘 Paperback: https://amzn.to/2RJYfti
💻 Ebook: https://amzn.to/35e23a5Merchandise:
🛍️ Shop: teespring.com/stores/einzelgangerstore
🛍️ Merchandise design by Punksthetic Art:
https://www.youtube.com/user/JRStoneart#shortstory #motivation #socialisolation
Turn on notifications for the podcast & rate it a 5star for new episodes.
Einzelgänger explores a wide range of topics and ideas, with a dose of "as I see it," out of curiosity and creative urge.
Einzelgänger is under the supervision of the Dutch Regulatory Media Authority (Commissariaat voor de Media).
*Disclaimer: The material provided by Einzelgänger isn't a clinical/medical service or replacement of mental health professionals, nor an academic resource.
Disclaimer: This audio project is an independent interpretation of content originally created by Einzelgänger. It was made by a listener who resonates deeply with the channel’s quiet reflections on philosophy, solitude, and selfmastery - and seeks to share that experience in a format suited for stillness, movement, or anything in between. This is not an official production of Einzelgänger, nor is it affiliated with or endorsed by the creator. All rights to the original material remain with Einzelgänger. If you represent the channel and wish to get in touch regarding this adaptation, please feel free to reach out.
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Keywords: stoicism, alan watts, life advice, seneca Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 1, 2026 • 28min
Are the Rich Screwing Us Over? | Marxism Explored | Einzelgänger
Are the Rich Screwing Us Over? | Marxism Explored
Many who read Marx discover that his ideas are terrifyingly relevant to today’s capitalist system. Looking at the inequality it produces, the system seems pretty rigged against the working class… which is most of us. This video explores Marxism.Video: Are the Rich Screwing Us Over? | Marxism ExploredSupport the channel:
✔️ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/einzelgangster
✔️ PayPal: https://www.paypal.me/einzelgangerco
✔️ Bitcoin: 3HQnEz1LQ4G6dqN2LdZgzc7qoJjJCyWjTC
(Donated BTC and want in the credits? Send me an email with the amount/address)🎞️ Animations and thumbnail art by Munkaa:
https://www.youtube.com/user/jus7yPurchase Stoicism for Inner Peace (affiliate links):
📘 Paperback: https://amzn.to/3wB9iHb
💻 Ebook: https://amzn.to/2RdjbKVPurchase Unoffendable (affiliate links):
📘 Paperback: https://amzn.to/2RJYfti
💻 Ebook: https://amzn.to/35e23a5Merchandise:
🛍️ Shop: teespring.com/stores/einzelgangerstore
🛍️ Merchandise design by Punksthetic Art:
https://www.youtube.com/user/JRStoneart#marx #marxism #communism00:00 Intro
02:51 Who was Karl Marx?
05:05 Modes of production: Introduction
05:57 Modes of production: Primitive communism
06:36 Modes of production: Slave society
07:52 Modes of production: Feudalism
09:36 Modes of production: Capitalism
12:38 Capitalism: Introduction
13:08 Capitalism: Exploitation
16:09 Capitalism: Alienation
17:50 Capitalism: Inequality
19:48 Capitalism: Instability
20:49 Theory and reality
Turn on notifications for the podcast & rate it a 5star for new episodes.
Einzelgänger explores a wide range of topics and ideas, with a dose of "as I see it," out of curiosity and creative urge.
Einzelgänger is under the supervision of the Dutch Regulatory Media Authority (Commissariaat voor de Media).
*Disclaimer: The material provided by Einzelgänger isn't a clinical/medical service or replacement of mental health professionals, nor an academic resource.
Disclaimer: This audio project is an independent interpretation of content originally created by Einzelgänger. It was made by a listener who resonates deeply with the channel’s quiet reflections on philosophy, solitude, and selfmastery - and seeks to share that experience in a format suited for stillness, movement, or anything in between. This is not an official production of Einzelgänger, nor is it affiliated with or endorsed by the creator. All rights to the original material remain with Einzelgänger. If you represent the channel and wish to get in touch regarding this adaptation, please feel free to reach out.
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Keywords: buddhist teachings, nihilism, western philosophy, seneca, life advice, schopenhauer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 30, 2026 • 15min
Why Silence is Power | Priceless Benefits of Being Silent | Einzelgänger
Why Silence is Power | Priceless Benefits of Being Silent
The power of silence is versatile. Silence can transcend speech, speak without words, and complement where verbal language is lacking. And keeping silent also has advantages in terms of creativity, mental health, spiritual and religious practice, achieving the upper hand in negotiations, and even as a way to intimidate. This video explores the power of silence, unfolding four priceless benefits of being silent.Video: Why Silence is Power | Priceless Benefits of Being SilentSupport the channel:
✔️ PayPal: https://www.paypal.me/einzelgangerco
✔️ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/einzelgangster
✔️ Bitcoin: 3HQnEz1LQ4G6dqN2LdZgzc7qoJjJCyWjTC
(Donated BTC and want in the credits? Send me an email with the amount/address)🎞️ Animations and thumbnail art by Munkaa:
https://www.youtube.com/user/jus7yPurchase Stoicism for Inner Peace (affiliate links):
📘 Paperback: https://amzn.to/3wB9iHb
💻 Ebook: https://amzn.to/2RdjbKVPurchase Unoffendable (affiliate links):
📘 Paperback: https://amzn.to/2RJYfti
💻 Ebook: https://amzn.to/35e23a5Merchandise:
🛍️ Shop: teespring.com/stores/einzelgangerstore
🛍️ Merchandise design by Punksthetic Art:
https://www.youtube.com/user/JRStoneartCreative Commons (attributions):Buddha painting: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Otgonbayar_Ershuu_Buddha_Painting.jpg
NOS Achtuurjournaal: https://archive.org/details/nosnews20190504
Stille Tocht Amsterdam (NOS): https://archive.org/details/2382574honderdenmensenbijstilletochtinamsterdam
Kranslegging Dam: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Eerste_Krans_door_de_Koning.jpg00:00 Intro
01:59 (1) The quieter you are, the more you hear.
04:40 (2) Silence boosts creativity.
06:33 (3) Silence can send a strong message.
09:50 (4) Silence improves wellbeing#silence #stillness #solitude
Turn on notifications for the podcast & rate it a 5star for new episodes.
Einzelgänger explores a wide range of topics and ideas, with a dose of "as I see it," out of curiosity and creative urge.
Einzelgänger is under the supervision of the Dutch Regulatory Media Authority (Commissariaat voor de Media).
*Disclaimer: The material provided by Einzelgänger isn't a clinical/medical service or replacement of mental health professionals, nor an academic resource.
Disclaimer: This audio project is an independent interpretation of content originally created by Einzelgänger. It was made by a listener who resonates deeply with the channel’s quiet reflections on philosophy, solitude, and selfmastery - and seeks to share that experience in a format suited for stillness, movement, or anything in between. This is not an official production of Einzelgänger, nor is it affiliated with or endorsed by the creator. All rights to the original material remain with Einzelgänger. If you represent the channel and wish to get in touch regarding this adaptation, please feel free to reach out.
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Keywords: buddhism, existentialism, western philosophy, ancient philosophy, seneca, diogenes, self improvement Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 30, 2026 • 16min
Don't Worry, Everything is Out of Control | Stoic Antidotes to Worry | Einzelgänger
Don't Worry, Everything is Out of Control | Stoic Antidotes to Worry
The ancient Stoics aimed to embrace the unpredictability of the future and many other things that are not within the individual’s control. In their writings, the Stoics left us some valuable antidotes that could help us worry less in a universe out of control.Support the channel:
✔️ PayPal: https://www.paypal.me/einzelgangerco
✔️ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/einzelgangster
✔️ Bitcoin: 3HQnEz1LQ4G6dqN2LdZgzc7qoJjJCyWjTC
(Donated BTC and want in the credits? Send me an email with the amount/address)🎞️ Animations and thumbnail art by Munkaa:
https://www.youtube.com/user/jus7yPurchase Stoicism for Inner Peace (affiliate links):
📘 Paperback: https://amzn.to/3wB9iHb
💻 Ebook: https://amzn.to/2RdjbKVPurchase Unoffendable (affiliate links):
📘 Paperback: https://amzn.to/2RJYfti
💻 Ebook: https://amzn.to/35e23a5Merchandise:
🛍️ Shop: teespring.com/stores/einzelgangerstore
🛍️ Merchandise design by Punksthetic Art:
https://www.youtube.com/user/JRStoneartCreative Commons (attributions):https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:The_Death_of_Seneca_MET_DP807754.jpg
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:C%C3%B3rdoba_2015_10_23_2668_(25945264960)_(cropped).jpg
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f5/Bust_of_PseudoSeneca_MET_rl1975.1.843.R.jpg#stoicism #marcusaurelius #worry00:00 Intro
02:28 (1) Being prudent
05:32 (2) Not being a cowardly scout
08:03 (3) Not being a beggar
10:04 (4) Being content with fate
Turn on notifications for the podcast & rate it a 5star for new episodes.
Einzelgänger explores a wide range of topics and ideas, with a dose of "as I see it," out of curiosity and creative urge.
Einzelgänger is under the supervision of the Dutch Regulatory Media Authority (Commissariaat voor de Media).
*Disclaimer: The material provided by Einzelgänger isn't a clinical/medical service or replacement of mental health professionals, nor an academic resource.
Disclaimer: This audio project is an independent interpretation of content originally created by Einzelgänger. It was made by a listener who resonates deeply with the channel’s quiet reflections on philosophy, solitude, and selfmastery - and seeks to share that experience in a format suited for stillness, movement, or anything in between. This is not an official production of Einzelgänger, nor is it affiliated with or endorsed by the creator. All rights to the original material remain with Einzelgänger. If you represent the channel and wish to get in touch regarding this adaptation, please feel free to reach out.
----------
Keywords: seneca, existential crisis, existentialism, nihilism, buddhism, philosophical guidance, solitude Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 30, 2026 • 19min
When Life Hurts, Stop Clinging to It | The Philosophy of Epictetus | Einzelgänger
When Life Hurts, Stop Clinging to It | The Philosophy of Epictetus
Stoicism for Inner Peace (book): https://einzelganger.co/innerpeaceOur very sense of wellbeing is at gunpoint when we cling to the fickle, unreliable outside world. Around two thousand years ago, Stoic philosopher Epictetus observed that people are burdened and dragged down because they tend to care about too many things. His cure, however, is not to stop caring altogether but to care about the right things and stop clinging to anything that doesn’t matter.What matters and doesn’t matter according to Epictetus is bound to the reality of our place as reasonable beings in an everchanging environment. This reality Epictetus makes clear in the underlying tenet of his work: ‘the dichotomy of control.’ Some things are in our control, others not. If we manage to concern ourselves with the things in our control, we are in a position of strength.But if we neglect these things, and focus on what’s not in our control, we are in a position of weakness. Especially when we cling to what’s not up to us, we set ourselves up for a life of suffering. But what are those things that we cling to? And why is it better to let go of them? This video explores the philosophy of Epictetus, and what we, according to him, should focus on to be happy and content, and what we should let go of, and how we do this.Support the channel:
✔️ PayPal: https://www.paypal.me/einzelgangerco
✔️ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/einzelgangster
✔️ Bitcoin: 3HQnEz1LQ4G6dqN2LdZgzc7qoJjJCyWjTC
(Donated BTC and want in the credits? Send me an email with the amount/address)🎞️ Animations by Munkaa:
https://www.youtube.com/user/jus7yPurchase Stoicism for Inner Peace (affiliate links):
📘 Paperback: https://amzn.to/3wB9iHb
💻 Ebook: https://amzn.to/2RdjbKVPurchase Unoffendable (affiliate links):
📘 Paperback: https://amzn.to/2RJYfti
💻 Ebook: https://amzn.to/35e23a5Merchandise:
🛍️ Shop: teespring.com/stores/einzelgangerstore
🛍️ Merchandise design by Punksthetic Art:
https://www.youtube.com/user/JRStoneartMusic used:
VYEN Amber
pATCHES The Joy Definitive
pATCHES Humble ProofreadingCreative Commons (attributions):Epictetus: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Discourses__Epictetus_(illustration_1)_(9021700938).jpg
Epicurus: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Greece_from_the_Coming_of_the_Hellenes_to_AD._14,_page_257,_Epicurus.jpg
Stoa: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Second_floor_detail_Stoa_of_Attalus_Athens.jpg00:00 Intro
01:37 Dichotomy of control
05:04 (1) Stop clinging to objects, people, and power.
09:10 (2) Stop clinging to the opinions of others.
12:08 (3) Stop clinging to outcomes and ideas.#stoicism #epictetus #stoic
Turn on notifications for the podcast & rate it a 5star for new episodes.
Einzelgänger explores a wide range of topics and ideas, with a dose of "as I see it," out of curiosity and creative urge.
Einzelgänger is under the supervision of the Dutch Regulatory Media Authority (Commissariaat voor de Media).
*Disclaimer: The material provided by Einzelgänger isn't a clinical/medical service or replacement of mental health professionals, nor an academic resource.
Disclaimer: This audio project is an independent interpretation of content originally created by Einzelgänger. It was made by a listener who resonates deeply with the channel’s quiet reflections on philosophy, solitude, and selfmastery - and seeks to share that experience in a format suited for stillness, movement, or anything in between. This is not an official production of Einzelgänger, nor is it affiliated with or endorsed by the creator. All rights to the original material remain with Einzelgänger. If you represent the channel and wish to get in touch regarding this adaptation, please feel free to reach out.
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Keywords: life advice, meaning of life, personal growth, seneca, taoism, existentialism, buddhism Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 28, 2026 • 23min
Life advice society doesn't want you to hear... | Einzelgänger
Life advice society doesn't want you to hear...Einzelgänger explores a wide range of topics and ideas, with a dose of "as I see it," out of curiosity and creative urge.Einzelgänger is under the supervision of the Dutch Regulatory Media Authority (Commissariaat voor de Media).*Disclaimer: The material provided by Einzelgänger isn't a clinical/medical service or replacement of mental health professionals, nor an academic resource.Disclaimer: This audio project is an independent interpretation of content originally created by Einzelgänger. It was made by a listener who resonates deeply with the channel’s quiet reflections on philosophy, solitude, and self-mastery - and seeks to share that experience in a format suited for stillness, movement, or anything in between. This is not an official production of Einzelgänger, nor is it affiliated with or endorsed by the creator. All rights to the original material remain with Einzelgänger. If you represent the channel and wish to get in touch regarding this adaptation, please feel free to reach out.
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Keywords: stoicism, taoist wisdom, mental health philosophy, existentialism, schopenhauer, buddhist teachings, existential crisis, ancient philosophy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 28, 2026 • 17min
Why Simplicity is Power | Priceless Benefits of Being Simple | Einzelgänger
Why Simplicity is Power | Priceless Benefits of Being Simple
Simplicity is the quality of being uncomplicated, which is beneficial in many areas. By being simple, whether in our thinking, desires, or how we arrange our stuff and furnish our living spaces, we can declutter our minds and focus on what truly matters-leading to clarity, peace, and fulfillment in our lives.Video: Why Simplicity is Power | Priceless Benefits of Being SimpleSupport the channel:
✔️ PayPal: https://www.paypal.me/einzelgangerco
✔️ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/einzelgangster
✔️ Bitcoin: 3HQnEz1LQ4G6dqN2LdZgzc7qoJjJCyWjTC
(Donated BTC and want in the credits? Send me an email with the amount/address)🎞️ Animations and thumbnail art by Munkaa:
https://www.youtube.com/user/jus7yPurchase Stoicism for Inner Peace (affiliate links):
📘 Paperback: https://amzn.to/3wB9iHb
💻 Ebook: https://amzn.to/2RdjbKVPurchase Unoffendable (affiliate links):
📘 Paperback: https://amzn.to/2RJYfti
💻 Ebook: https://amzn.to/35e23a5Merchandise:
🛍️ Shop: teespring.com/stores/einzelgangerstore
🛍️ Merchandise design by Punksthetic Art:
https://www.youtube.com/user/JRStoneart#simplicity #simplify #minimalism00:00 Introduction
02:30 Inner peace & mental clarity
05:35 Freedom from rampant consumerism
08:44 Resisting the Achievement Society
Turn on notifications for the podcast & rate it a 5star for new episodes.
Einzelgänger explores a wide range of topics and ideas, with a dose of "as I see it," out of curiosity and creative urge.
Einzelgänger is under the supervision of the Dutch Regulatory Media Authority (Commissariaat voor de Media).
*Disclaimer: The material provided by Einzelgänger isn't a clinical/medical service or replacement of mental health professionals, nor an academic resource.
Disclaimer: This audio project is an independent interpretation of content originally created by Einzelgänger. It was made by a listener who resonates deeply with the channel’s quiet reflections on philosophy, solitude, and selfmastery - and seeks to share that experience in a format suited for stillness, movement, or anything in between. This is not an official production of Einzelgänger, nor is it affiliated with or endorsed by the creator. All rights to the original material remain with Einzelgänger. If you represent the channel and wish to get in touch regarding this adaptation, please feel free to reach out.
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Keywords: philosophical reflection, taoist wisdom, taoism, personal growth, western philosophy, existential crisis, nihilism, life advice Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 27, 2026 • 15min
The Closer We Get, The More We Hurt | The Hedgehog’s Dilemma | Einzelgänger
The Closer We Get, The More We Hurt | The Hedgehog’s Dilemma
Once upon a time, a group of hedgehogs faced the cold winter. As they were feeling cold, they decided to move closer to each other and share bodily warmth. Unfortunately, as soon as they crawled together, they hurt each other with their sharp spines. And thus, the hedgehogs moved away from each other again, as the cold weather was more tolerable than being hurt by the spines.The hedgehog story (coined by Arthur Schopenhauer) shows the tragic dilemma of human relationships: due to feelings of loneliness and isolation, we seek closeness with others, but the closer we become, the more likely we seem to get hurt (and hurt others).Video: The Closer We Get, The More We Hurt | The Hedgehog’s DilemmaSupport the channel:
✔️ PayPal: https://www.paypal.me/einzelgangerco
✔️ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/einzelgangster
✔️ Bitcoin: 3HQnEz1LQ4G6dqN2LdZgzc7qoJjJCyWjTC
(Donated BTC and want in the credits? Send me an email with the amount/address)🎞️ Animations and thumbnail art by Munkaa:
https://www.youtube.com/user/jus7yBook: Loose! (affiliate links):
📘 Paperback: https://amzn.to/3QVfrqM
💻 Ebook: https://amzn.to/3qStDX0Book: Stoicism for Inner Peace (affiliate links):
📘 Paperback: https://amzn.to/3wB9iHb
💻 Ebook: https://amzn.to/2RdjbKVBook: Unoffendable (affiliate links):
📘 Paperback: https://amzn.to/2RJYfti
💻 Ebook: https://amzn.to/35e23a5Merchandise:
🛍️ Shop: teespring.com/stores/einzelgangerstore
🛍️ Merchandise design by Punksthetic Art:
https://www.youtube.com/user/JRStoneart#socialisolation #schopenhauer #loneliness00:00 Intro
01:11 Keeping distance
04:50 Attraction & repulsion
07:35 What are the options?
08:13 Option 1
09:26 Option 2
10:52 Option 3
Turn on notifications for the podcast & rate it a 5star for new episodes.
Einzelgänger explores a wide range of topics and ideas, with a dose of "as I see it," out of curiosity and creative urge.
Einzelgänger is under the supervision of the Dutch Regulatory Media Authority (Commissariaat voor de Media).
*Disclaimer: The material provided by Einzelgänger isn't a clinical/medical service or replacement of mental health professionals, nor an academic resource.
Disclaimer: This audio project is an independent interpretation of content originally created by Einzelgänger. It was made by a listener who resonates deeply with the channel’s quiet reflections on philosophy, solitude, and selfmastery - and seeks to share that experience in a format suited for stillness, movement, or anything in between. This is not an official production of Einzelgänger, nor is it affiliated with or endorsed by the creator. All rights to the original material remain with Einzelgänger. If you represent the channel and wish to get in touch regarding this adaptation, please feel free to reach out.
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Keywords: epictetus, solitude, mindfulness, life advice, existential crisis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 24, 2026 • 2min
Why we prefer being alone... despite feeling lonely | Einzelgänger
Why we prefer being alone... Despite feeling lonely
People generally agree that seeking close relationships is the solution when suffering at the hands of loneliness. We seek friendships to fill in the empty hole we’ve been experiencing. We join groups and clubs just to be around people - to feel the warmth of a community. But people tend to ignore the miseries accompanying these close relationships. When we consider the pain that goes together with closeness, it’s no surprise that many friendships result in fighting, and romantic relationships often fall apart dramatically. When dealing with others, we risk being betrayed, insulted, and abandoned.#loneliness #loner #alone
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Einzelgänger explores a wide range of topics and ideas, with a dose of "as I see it," out of curiosity and creative urge.
Einzelgänger is under the supervision of the Dutch Regulatory Media Authority (Commissariaat voor de Media).
*Disclaimer: The material provided by Einzelgänger isn't a clinical/medical service or replacement of mental health professionals, nor an academic resource.
Disclaimer: This audio project is an independent interpretation of content originally created by Einzelgänger. It was made by a listener who resonates deeply with the channel’s quiet reflections on philosophy, solitude, and selfmastery - and seeks to share that experience in a format suited for stillness, movement, or anything in between. This is not an official production of Einzelgänger, nor is it affiliated with or endorsed by the creator. All rights to the original material remain with Einzelgänger. If you represent the channel and wish to get in touch regarding this adaptation, please feel free to reach out.
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Keywords: diogenes, modern philosophy, self improvement, philosophical guidance, mental health philosophy, solitude, buddhism Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices


