Donald is a writer, cognitive-behavioural psychotherapist and trainer. Donald specializes in teaching evidence-based psychological skills, and known as an expert on the relationship between modern psychotherapy (CBT) and classical Greek and Roman philosophy. He is the author of the book "How to Think Like a Roman Emperor: The Stoic Philosophy of Marcus Aurelius" and is also the president of the new Plato Academy Centre in Athens.  We chat about all things stoicism! In this, the first of three parts, we get an insight into Donalds background, his work relating to Stoicism, Plato's relevance in Gnostic texts and of course Marcus Aurelius! The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius offer a remarkable series of spiritual reflections and exercises developed as the emperor struggled to understand himself and make sense of the universe. While the Meditations were composed to provide personal consolation and encouragement, Marcus Aurelius also created one of the greatest of all works of philosophy: a timeless collection that has been consulted and admired by statesmen, thinkers and readers throughout the centuries.  Whilst many of his reflections and ways to live life were based on the teachings of earlier philosophers from the Socratics to the early Stoics, Marcus Aurelius strove to live his life by the principles of his philosophy and in his Meditations articulated those views in a way that remains one of the greatest books of wisdom to have graced the Earth. Presented by Adam Bates Become a Patreon and gain access to exclusive content (including Adam's own Meditations!) as well as enabling me to dedicate more time to giving you more content! https://www.patreon.com/stoicismformodernlife If you enjoy this show you will also love my other shows in related areas! Firstly, Jamie Keeling and I have the (From Socrates to Marcus Aurelius) Stoicism for Modern Life Podcast which you can access here: https://link.chtbl.com/b-UmKJGW Then for the Psychology, Human Behaviour and Mental Health with Adzfitness show the place where you will soon find the content touched on in this episode: https://link.chtbl.com/aaPy3vQh Thank you all for your continued support and valuing the content! Update Description