How do you transform trauma into power? In this episode of Stoic Empathy, Shermin Kruse sits down with David Ambroz, a nationally recognized advocate for foster youth and child welfare reform. Once homeless and navigating the foster care system himself, David turned his experiences into a lifelong mission for change, earning recognition from President Obama as an American Champion of Change.

David opens up about his challenging childhood, his mother’s struggles with mental illness, and how those experiences shaped his commitment to advocacy. He and Shermin explore forgiveness as a continuous practice, the role of anger as a force for transformation, and how cognitive and emotional empathy help in navigating personal and systemic challenges.

This conversation is a testament to resilience, radical empathy, and the unwavering pursuit of justice for the most vulnerable.

• How forgiveness can be a daily practice, not a one-time decision.
• Why anger, when properly channeled, can be a tool for change.
• The difference between cognitive and emotional empathy in overcoming trauma.
• How David’s motto “Illegitimi non carborundum” (Don’t let the bastards grind you down) has guided his journey.
• Why creating dorms for foster youth at community colleges is a revolutionary approach to preventing homelessness.

David’s story proves that trauma does not have to define us—but how we respond to it can.

Listen now and subscribe for more insights on Stoic Empathy.

If you’re inspired by this episode, dive deeper into the philosophy of Stoic Empathy with Shermin Kruse’s upcoming book, Stoic Empathy: The Road Map to a Life of Influence, Self-Leadership, and Integrity.

This transformative guide explores the balance between stoicism and empathy, equipping you with tools to regulate emotions, strengthen relationships, and lead with purpose. Packed with personal stories, scientific insights, and practical strategies, this book is a must-read for leaders, changemakers, and anyone looking to navigate life with resilience and compassion.

Now available for presale on Amazon! Secure your copy today and start your journey toward mastering Stoic Empathy.

To learn more about Shermin, visit SherminKruse.com.

This episode is brought to you by Nurturing Wisdom and EpicsPodcast.com.

What does it mean to succeed without losing yourself? In this powerful episode of Stoic Empathy, Shermin Kruse sits down with Dion Dawson, U.S. Navy veteran, social entrepreneur, and founder of Dion’s Chicago Dream, a nonprofit reimagining the fight against hunger.

Dion’s story is one of resilience, purpose, and self-belief—from experiencing homelessness to becoming a national leader in food security. His approach to success is deeply rooted in Stoic philosophy, focusing on controlling what he can (his output) and letting go of what he can’t (the outcome). He likens his work to an archer: aiming, preparing, and releasing—but never obsessing over where the arrow lands.

Dion also shares his Iron Man Social Impact Theory, his commitment to never trading his soul for success, and the importance of internal validation over external approval. With insights drawn from personal struggles, military service, and social impact leadership, Dion reminds us that success isn’t something we obtain—it’s a peak we reach, one day at a time.

• Why defining success by output, not outcome, leads to long-term fulfillment.
• How Dion applies Stoic principles like the dichotomy of control to leadership and impact.
• The power of self-belief and resilience in overcoming obstacles.
• How Dion’s innovative approach to food security is transforming lives.
• Why focusing on contribution over recognition creates deeper, lasting change.

Dion’s story is a testament to persistence, faith in one’s path, and leading with purpose.

Listen now and subscribe for more insights on Stoic Empathy.

If you’re inspired by this episode, dive deeper into the philosophy of Stoic Empathy with Shermin Kruse’s upcoming book, Stoic Empathy: The Road Map to a Life of Influence, Self-Leadership, and Integrity.

This transformative guide explores the balance between stoicism and empathy, equipping you with tools to regulate emotions, strengthen relationships, and lead with purpose. Packed with personal stories, scientific insights, and practical strategies, this book is a must-read for leaders, changemakers, and anyone looking to navigate life with resilience and compassion.

Now available for presale on Amazon! Secure your copy today and start your journey toward mastering Stoic Empathy.

To learn more about Shermin, visit SherminKruse.com.

This episode is brought to you by Nurturing Wisdom and EpicsPodcast.com.