The Daily Stoic
Daily Stoic | Backyard Ventures
For centuries, all sorts of people—generals and politicians, athletes and coaches, writers and leaders—have looked to the teachings of Stoicism to help guide their lives. Each day, author and speaker Ryan Holiday brings you a new lesson about life, inspired by the thoughts and writings of great Stoic thinkers like Marcus Aurelius and Seneca the Younger. Daily Stoic Podcast also features Q+As with listeners and interviews with notable figures from sports, academia, politics, and more. Learn more at DailyStoic.com.Support the podcast and go deeper with Stoicism by subscribing to The Daily Stoic Premium - unlock ad-free listening, early access, and bonus content (coming soon): dailystoic.com/premium
Episodes
Mentioned books
34 snips
Sep 9, 2023 • 1h 14min
Adrian Grenier On How Turning To Philosophy Saved His Life
Adrian Grenier, the multifaceted actor known for his role in Entourage, discusses the transformative power of philosophy in his life. He reflects on the harsh realities of fame and the rock-bottom moment that spurred his personal growth. Adrian shares his journey to becoming a better father, aiming to break negative cycles from his childhood. He passionately advocates for sustainable living through his projects and emphasizes that farming embodies philosophical principles. Their conversation is a heartfelt exploration of authenticity and human connection.
14 snips
Sep 8, 2023 • 9min
Where Are You Trying To Get Better? | Do Not Be Deceived By Fortune
The relentless pursuit of self-improvement is highlighted through the lens of Tom Brady’s dedication to refining his craft. Personal growth isn’t just for athletes; it’s a universal journey we all share. Seneca’s wisdom sheds light on the dangers of being deceived by fortune and emphasizes the need for resilience in adversity. His reflections from exile serve as a reminder to embrace humility and prepare for life’s unexpected challenges. The pursuit of improvement is a combination of intentionality and philosophical insight.
24 snips
Sep 7, 2023 • 18min
Do You Have This Ability? | Ask DS
Discover the importance of reflection in effective leadership and why action without thought can lead to mistakes. Explore how to balance self-discipline and empathy in relationships. Hear insights on overcoming entrepreneurial hurdles and the quest for individuality. Delve into the emotional complexities of communication and its impact on business. Lastly, learn about the struggle of accepting what you can't control and the vital role of self-compassion in navigating life's challenges.
8 snips
Sep 6, 2023 • 3min
The Only Part Of Your Reputation To Worry About
Explore the paradox of reputation in Stoicism as historical figures like Marcus Aurelius and Cato navigated personal virtue and public perception. Discover how these towering personalities cultivated their reputations while maintaining a Stoic mindset. The discussion highlights the tension between striving for a good name and the Stoic belief of indifference to others' opinions. It’s a fascinating look at the balance between self-discipline and the desire for external validation.
117 snips
Sep 6, 2023 • 1h 17min
Brad Stulberg On Mastering Change With Science And Stoicism
In this discussion, Brad Stulberg, a writer and success coach, dives into his latest work on mastering change. He highlights the scientific underpinnings of our inherent need for change and emphasizes the importance of skillful action based on ancient wisdom. Stulberg introduces the concept of tragic optimism, advocating for resilience by acknowledging life's suffering while maintaining hope. He also explores the fluidity of identity, suggesting that embracing change can foster personal growth and adaptability, ultimately promoting a deeper understanding of ourselves.
27 snips
Sep 5, 2023 • 11min
How Do You Know If You're A Good Leader? | What Marcus Aurelius Learned from His Father About Being a Good Man
In this insightful discussion, Marcus Aurelius, the Roman emperor and revered Stoic philosopher, shares wisdom gleaned from his father about effective leadership. He emphasizes a simple yet profound question: "Do you make people better?" The conversation unfolds around essential leadership virtues like integrity, compassion, and self-reliance. Marcus reflects on how selflessness and a clear conscience shape a truly great leader, inspiring listeners to embrace these qualities to positively influence their teams and communities.
20 snips
Sep 4, 2023 • 8min
Go Out And Live Today | A Hard Winter Training
Labor Day's origins highlight the importance of acknowledging workers' contributions and the necessity of rest. Stoic philosophy agrees, advocating for breaks to rejuvenate the mind. Seneca likened our minds to fertile fields needing care to thrive. The conversation shifts to the concept of 'hard winter training,' emphasizing the value of embracing challenges for mental and physical resilience. Find strength in adversity and transform discomfort into growth. Plus, tips on enhancing nutrition and accessing mental health support easily.
33 snips
Sep 3, 2023 • 35min
What American Legacy Company US Steel Can Learn From Stoicism
Explore the intersection of Stoic philosophy and the steel industry, highlighting how courage can drive success in leadership. Delve into the relevance of Marcus Aurelius's teachings in confronting modern fears and navigating challenges. Discover the importance of discipline and ethical leadership, with historical reflections emphasizing accountability. Learn the value of lifelong learning and how challenges can transform into opportunities for growth, encouraging a mindset inspired by Stoic wisdom.
56 snips
Sep 2, 2023 • 1h 6min
Rainn Wilson On How His Deepest Struggles Led To His Best Roles
Rainn Wilson, the multifaceted actor known for his iconic role as Dwight Schrute on *The Office*, discusses his journey through adversity and how it shaped his career. He reflects on the importance of embracing struggles as a path to growth and wisdom. Rainn shares why he wishes he'd enjoyed his time on *The Office* more, while connecting personal experiences to Stoic and philosophical insights. The conversation also touches on the state of the writers' strike and the need for meaningful work in the arts.
10 snips
Sep 1, 2023 • 8min
In The End It Doesn’t Even Matter | A Strong Soul Is Better Than Good Luck
Ever wonder what really matters in life? This discussion dives deep into the fleeting nature of daily annoyances and how they often fade into insignificance over time. Utilizing Stoic philosophy, it highlights the value of emotional resilience and strength of character. Learn how historical figures like Cato the Younger and Seneca faced challenges, emphasizing mental preparation and discipline. In a world obsessed with luck, the podcast champions long-term resilience as the path to true strength.
