About us
Welcome to Orlando Stoics
Orlando Stoics is an active community of more than 5,000 members, with several meetings held each week. Some events take place in person, while others are held online. All meetings and classes are free.
What Is Stoicism?
Stoicism is a practical school of philosophy founded in Athens around 300 BCE by Zeno of Citium. It teaches that a good life is built upon wisdom, character, and virtue. Stoics seek to live in accordance with nature and reason while practicing courage, justice, self-control, and resilience.
Our discussions draw from ancient Stoic thinkers such as Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius, as well as modern writers and practitioners.
Why Study Stoicism?
In a world of constant stimulation, instant gratification, and endless distraction, Stoicism offers a different way of approaching life. It teaches us to distinguish between what is within our control and what is not, respond thoughtfully rather than impulsively, and preserve our character during difficult circumstances.
We also explore connections between Stoicism and Buddhism, Taoism, Hinduism, Existentialism, Minimalism, psychology, and other traditions concerned with philosophy as a way of life. Our meetings encourage thoughtful questions, respectful disagreement, and in-depth discussion.
What We Do
- Read and discuss ancient and modern works on Stoicism.
- Examine Stoic themes in literature, art, media, and popular culture.
- Compare Stoic ideas with insights from history, religion, psychology, and other philosophical traditions.
Stoicism has influenced people from many different backgrounds, including writers, political leaders, soldiers, activists, and ordinary people seeking to live with greater clarity and purpose. Its appeal lies not in promising an easy life, but in helping us meet life’s difficulties with sound judgment, resilience, and integrity.
Joining the Group
Our group is open to the public, and there are no membership or subscription fees. Because we post new meetings frequently, Meetup notifications may generate more emails than you prefer. You can adjust them by visiting our Meetup page, selecting “You’re a Member,” and then choosing “Group Notifications.” You may turn off the emails and still visit the page whenever you would like to see upcoming events.
Whether you are completely new to Stoicism or have studied it for years, you are welcome to join us.
We hope to see you at an upcoming meeting.
Upcoming events
8
IN-PERSON: Thursday Academics
Panera Bread, 2415 N Orange Ave, Orlando, FL, USIN-PERSON ONLY - The Art Of Happiness by Donald Robinson
This session is designed as a more rigorous and structured exploration of Stoic philosophy for those seeking a deeper, course-level understanding. Moving beyond general discussion, the group will examine Stoic principles in their original context, drawing from primary sources and engaging with the underlying philosophical frameworks.
Participants should expect a more analytical format, including close reading, conceptual breakdowns, and guided discussion focused on ethics, logic, and practical application. While still accessible, this session is best suited for those who are interested in a disciplined study of Stoicism and are willing to engage more critically with the material.
If you have not attended the Saturday sessions, we recommend that you attend the Saturday session before joining this group.READING
Stoicism And The Art Of Happiness by Donald Robinson.Course Material:
- Link to purchase the book: [Amazon.com](https://www.amazon.com/Stoicism-Art-Happiness-perseverance-philosophy-ebook/dp/B073ZLMQ3D?crid=1WHBITPAYP07J&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.NQGMaSnD4hvC0S2NEhxS9y3X2XZnN5SgNUfuSouzxLzx9zd3B2VtqwZvk7wpK0ndakiniaQXX2nsCRfhBEGL3rGKlTGogfd9LKVP_nXGdJ6-HcnjTbKVpUedT3eDwehUKKlRrs85BuBXfWaf6EI6QRPtCWdRYrqLeY0b05j1HVoU9INiCSa1YMK_van_wvenZIq3djVwLpFHTr_WNb9NdTPPx_bpLXnbSCGIQGFgUcE.vShCMXVW9Q0kEZx-q_lh1OBcvHgEiaqG2sxhuBo-m5Y&dib_tag=se&keywords=stoicism+and+the+art+of+happiness+by+donald+robertson&nsdOptOutParam=true&qid=1777832320&sprefix=the+art+of+happiness+by+R%2Caps%2C137&sr=8-1)
- Outlines can be found here.
- We recommend that you read the chapter before showing up. We will read the chapters, at least summaries of each, and go over the core ideas together.
VENUE
The location is Panera Bread, 2415 N Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32804. It's on the FIRST FLOOR of the AdventHealth medical building.
Parking is free. As you drive north on Orange Avenue, you will see the AdventHealth building on the right. Turn right, go 2 blocks, and then turn right again into the parking garage (free parking). Most parking spaces are open; avoid the reserved spaces.
You can park on the first floor and walk outside, or park on the third floor of the garage and use the air-conditioned bridge to walk to the building.TIME
The meeting is from 6 pm to 8 pm. Please show a little earlier so that everyone can get started on time.ZOOM LINK
Since the meeting is in-person only, no Zoom link is available.GUESTS
No guest. Each person must signup directly.COURTESY
This group enjoys open-minded, respectful conversations. We don't talk over each other. If we differ in our opinions, then "we agree to disagree". The long-term goal is to improve our minds via group discussions. Our group does NOT discuss religion or politics.4 attendees
IN-PERSON: Reason Not to Worry (Stoic Saturdays)
Panera Bread, 2415 N Orange Ave, Orlando, FL, USThis is our IN-PERSON Stoic discussion and reading (no Zoom link available). We meet every 2 weeks on Saturdays.
READING
# Reasons Not to Worry: How to Be Stoic in Chaotic Times
In this thoughtful and approachable book, journalist Brigid Delaney spends a year exploring how Stoic philosophy can be applied to modern life. Blending personal experience with humor and reflection, she turns to ancient thinkers like Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius to help answer some of life’s most persistent questions—how to find peace, handle uncertainty, and focus on what truly matters.
Rather than presenting Stoicism as abstract theory, Delaney tests its ideas in real time. She compares her own tendencies—impatience, anxiety, and a fast-paced modern lifestyle—with the Stoic emphasis on reason, acceptance, and control. Through this process, she examines how ancient wisdom can be used to navigate everyday challenges, from stress and insecurity to grief and decision-making.
The result is a practical and often humorous exploration of how to live more deliberately. By learning to let go of what cannot be controlled, reflect on what is important, and approach life with greater awareness, Delaney shows how Stoicism can help restore a sense of balance and perspective—even in uncertain or chaotic times.Book Club Format
- Link to purchase the book: Amazon.com
- Read the current chapter of the book before the next meeting
- Write down your thoughts, questions, and concerns, or highlight certain sections of the book you would like to read aloud.
- We will go around the room, and everyone will have a chance to discuss the chapter and ask questions.
- Meaningful application and final discussion.
Outlines will be provided. We recommend that you read the chapter before showing up. We will read the chapters, at least summaries of each, and go over the core ideas together.
SCHEDULE
04-25-2026: Chapter 1 - How to Be Mortal
05-09-2026: Chapter 2 - How to Work Out What Matters
05-23-2026: Chapter 3 - How to Cope with Disaster
06-06-2026: Chapter 4 - How to Be Relaxed
06-20-2026: Chapter 5 - How to Be Good
07-04-2026: Chapter 6 - How to Be Untroubled
07-18-2026: Chapter 7 - How to Be Calm
08-01-2026: Chapter 8 - How to Be Moderate
08-15-2026: Chapter 9 - How to Be on Social Media
08-29-2026: Chapter 10 - How to Be Happy with What You’ve Got
09-12-2026: Chap 11 & 12 - How to Beat FOMO, Comparisons & Anxiety
09-26-2026: Chap 12 & 13 - Beat Anxiety, How To Grieve
10-10-2026: Chapter 13 - How to Grieve
10-24-2026: Chapter 14 - How to Die + EpilogueVENUE
The location is Panera Bread, 2415 N Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32804. It's on the FIRST FLOOR of the AdventHealth medical building.
Parking is free. As you drive north on Orange Avenue, you will see the AdventHealth building on the right. Turn right, go 2 blocks, and then turn right again into the parking garage (free parking). Most parking spaces are open; avoid the reserved spaces.
You can park on the first floor and walk outside, or park on the third floor of the garage and use the air-conditioned bridge to walk to the building.
TIME
The meeting is from Noon to 2 PM. No worries if you're late... It's better to be late than not show up. Also, we take a break halfway in the meeting for refreshment and a bathroom break.
ZOOM LINK
Since the meeting is in-person only, no Zoom link is available.
GUESTS
If you want to invite a guest, please ask them to RSVP separately. We have a limited number of seats in the room.
COURTESY
This group enjoys open-minded, respectful conversations. We don't talk over each other. If we differ in our opinions, then "we agree to disagree". The long-term goal is to improve our minds via group discussions. Our group does NOT discuss religion or politics.
5 attendees
Past events
1766
