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
May 14, 2023 • 15min
The Life Of Chrysippus
Chrysippus, a revered Greco-Phoenician Stoic philosopher, is the focal point as his life and impact are examined. The discussion reveals his journey from athlete to a master of dialectics and writing. Anecdotes illustrate his character, including his humorous interactions with students and a complex perspective on authority. The podcast also reflects on the enduring relevance of Stoic philosophy today and hints at exciting new ventures, blending historical insights with modern interpretations.
22 snips
May 13, 2023 • 1h 12min
MMA Legend Frank Shamrock On Conquering The Ego and Developing Honor
In this engaging conversation, Frank Shamrock, the first UFC Middleweight Champion and MMA pioneer, opens up about his journey from a challenging foster care upbringing to becoming a legendary fighter. He delves into the intersection of Stoic virtues and the Warrior Code, emphasizing the importance of humility, honor, and the management of ego. Sharing stories on mentorship, the transformative power of martial arts culture, and the ethical dilemmas faced by athletes, Frank encourages listeners to embrace personal growth through genuine connection and integrity.
22 snips
May 12, 2023 • 9min
What Gets The Best Part of Your Day? | Kindness Is Always The Right Response
The podcast dives into the significance of how we start our days, urging intentionality over distractions. It explores the transformative power of kindness, particularly in hostile situations, drawing from historical civil rights figures. The discussion also highlights responding to negativity with compassion, encouraging listeners to reflect on personal encounters and choose constructive dialogue over retaliation. Emphasizing Stoic wisdom, it inspires a focus on meaningful connections and self-improvement.
8 snips
May 11, 2023 • 12min
Do You Make Time For this? | Ask DS
Jimmy Carter believed in carving out time for reflection, even as president. The discussion emphasizes the importance of morning routines and how they enhance mental clarity. It dives into using anger as a constructive tool and the value of understanding differing perspectives. The conversation also tackles the balance between gratitude and ambition, urging listeners to embrace their responsibilities while recognizing personal growth opportunities. Plus, there's a humorous look at philosophy's role in navigating technology and decision-making.
54 snips
May 10, 2023 • 1h 14min
Gretchen Rubin On The Power Of Exploring Your Senses
Gretchen Rubin, a renowned author and expert on happiness and habits, shares her insights from her latest book, emphasizing the significance of sensory exploration. She discusses how our perceptions shape our reality, the joy found in rereading beloved books, and the beauty of appreciating everyday moments. Her reflections on personal growth and the transformative power of routine resonate throughout the conversation. Rubin also delves into the nuances of soundscapes and the importance of embracing life's imperfections, providing listeners with a fresh perspective on mindfulness.
12 snips
May 10, 2023 • 2min
When Is The Last Time You Challenged Yourself?
Exploring the dangers of getting too comfortable, the discussion reveals how a ‘velvet rut’ can trick us into stagnation. By embracing challenges and confronting adversity, listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own growth. The wisdom of Stoic philosophy shines through, advocating for the importance of stepping outside comfort zones to achieve true fulfillment. It's a call to action to recognize when convenience hinders personal development.
36 snips
May 9, 2023 • 20min
The Personal Is Universal | Short Stoic Lessons From All Of Ryan Holiday's Books
Explore how personal experiences in art resonate universally, echoing the wisdom of 'Meditations'. Discover a writer's transformative journey, moving to New Orleans to pursue dreams while reflecting on growth through twelve books. Unpack the intricate dynamics of media manipulation and the importance of awareness. Learn how Stoicism shapes modern marketing by prioritizing creativity and moral responsibility. Finally, embrace self-love as a core metric for growth, advocating kindness over guilt in the pursuit of personal fulfillment.
7 snips
May 8, 2023 • 9min
This Is A Great Pleasure | We Are A Product Of Our Habits
Discover the pivotal role of justice according to Marcus Aurelius, as it serves as the foundation for all other virtues. Explore the significance of habits in shaping our identities and personal growth. Uncover effective strategies for cultivating positive habits while overcoming negative ones. The conversation also touches on a meaningful fundraising effort for families in Rwanda, emphasizing community well-being as a critical aspect of Stoic philosophy.
32 snips
May 7, 2023 • 46min
Ryan And Guy Raz On Controlling Only What You Can
Guy Raz, an NPR host and author renowned for his podcast 'How I Built This', joins Ryan to explore Stoic wisdom in everyday life. They chat about the importance of controlling what one can, especially in unpredictable situations. The duo delves into kindness through a Stoic lens, reflecting on Marcus Aurelius’ teachings. They also tackle personal growth, discussing how meaningful actions surpass mere achievements. Lastly, they highlight the need for mindfulness in media consumption to enhance overall well-being.
262 snips
May 6, 2023 • 1h 23min
Kevin Kelly On The Courage It Takes To Live Your Own Life
Kevin Kelly, a pioneer in technology and culture, shares insights from his book, "Excellent Advice for Living." He discusses the courage to lead an authentic life, emphasizing vulnerability and self-reflection. The conversation covers the significance of mentorship and the emotional impact of photography in preserving memories. Kelly also addresses the challenges in the publishing industry and the importance of individuality in a competitive world. Finally, he reflects on time, legacy, and embracing mortality to appreciate life more deeply.
