Using Ancient Wisdom to Thrive in the Modern World

How do we not just survive, but thrive in an age of constant change and overwhelming information? While the ancients certainly didn’t have all the answers, they did have some pretty powerful ideas—ideas that remain strikingly relevant today. Join me as we take a fresh, practical look at wisdom from Ancient Athens to Ancient China—not as abstract theory, but as a toolkit for navigating modern life. This talk is all about making these ideas work for you, offering fresh insights into how we see ourselves and our place in the world. We’ll examine why curiosity alone isn’t enough—it’s the application of wisdom that truly shapes our lives. We’ll challenge the Stoic idea that we can only control our thoughts and actions, arguing that we also have a role in shaping our immediate surroundings. We’ll explore the Hindu notion that the external world is a reflection of our inner state, and we’ll rethink discipline—not as rigid self-denial, but as an act of self-love, through the lens of Confucian benevolence (Ren) and Daoist self-knowledge. If you’re looking for new ways to approach life with clarity, purpose, and resilience, this talk is for you. Expect big questions, fresh perspectives, and—most importantly—ideas you can actually use.