Dr. Scott Waltman & Kasey Pierce: Stoicism for the Modern Mind

Thoughts on Record: Podcast of the Ottawa Institute of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

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In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Scott Waltman and Kasey Pierce coauthors, along with Trent Codd, Ed.S of The Stoicism Workbook - to explore how ancient Stoic philosophy can offer powerful tools for managing today’s challenges. From emotional resilience and anxiety to self-compassion and values-driven living, we unpack how timeless Stoic principles can help you navigate stress, uncertainty, and personal growth.

Whether you’re a mental health professional, a fan of philosophy, or just someone looking for practical ways to feel more grounded, this conversation brings Stoicism down to earth—with insights that align closely with many therapeutic frameworks.

We discuss:

• What Stoicism is and why it’s still relevant
• The Stoic approach to emotional resilience and anxiety
• The difference between values and virtues
• How to apply Stoic practices in daily life
• Building tolerance for discomfort and uncertainty
• Transforming self-criticism into self-compassion
• Socratic questioning as a tool for insight and change
• Embracing acceptance without falling into complacency
• Cultivating wisdom and living in alignment with what matters most

Scott Waltman, PsyD, ABPP, is a clinician, international trainer, and practice-based researcher. His interests include evidence-based psychotherapy practice, training, and implementation in systems that provide care to underserved populations. He is president-elect of both the Academy of Cognitive & Behavioral Therapies and the International Association of Cognitive Behavioral Therapies. He is board certified in Behavioral and Cognitive Psychology from the American Board of Professional Psychology. Dr. Waltman, worked as a CBT trainer for one of Dr. Aaron Beck’s CBT implementation teams in the Philadelphia public mental health system. He is a practicing Stoic and the first author of The Stoicism Workbook: How the Wisdom of Socrates Can Help You Build Resilience and Overcome Anything Life Throws at You.

Kasey Pierce is a writer and Stoicism columnist from the metro Detroit area. She has contributed as a freelance content editor for Donald Robertson's “Verissimus” (St. Martin’s Press) and serves as the editor of Tim LeBon's “365 Ways to Be More Stoic” (John Murray Press). Kasey recently coauthored “The Stoicism Workbook” with CBT practitioners Scott Waltman and R. Trent Codd. Additionally, she is the. communications director for Plato’s Academy Centre, a nonprofit in Athens, Greece, dedicated to promoting philosophy as a way of life. Kasey's passion lies in making the intersection of Stoic philosophy and cognitive behavioral therapy accessible to everyday people, using relatable examples and humor to enhance understanding and application.

https://www.instagram.com/socraticmethodcbt/

https://www.instagram.com/kcdwrites/

www.trentcodd.com