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
32 snips
Feb 24, 2023 • 10min
Take This Seriously…But Not TOO Seriously | The Real Source of Harm
Punctuality reflects both self-discipline and respect for others. It’s intriguing how ancient Stoics like Marcus Aurelius valued time management, yet they practiced self-compassion when they stumbled. The discussion shifts to the perception of harm, emphasizing that it's not others’ actions but our beliefs about them that cause distress. We learn how adversity can lead to significant personal growth, showcasing the power of choice in navigating life's challenges. Embracing the imperfection of our journey is just as important as striving for improvement.
16 snips
Feb 23, 2023 • 10min
They Are Not Your Rivals | Ask DS
Explore the intriguing contrast between Stoicism and Epicureanism, especially their views on pleasure and virtue. Discover how Stoic philosophy serves as an essential guide for modern leadership amidst a culture that often celebrates ego. Delve into the challenges leaders face in managing ego and humility, particularly in social media. The discussion also highlights the importance of learning from history to navigate leadership challenges effectively and promote a healthier organizational culture.
11 snips
Feb 22, 2023 • 3min
You Can’t Turn Away From Things That Are Hard
The discussion revolves around the Stoic approach to adversity. It emphasizes the importance of confronting rather than avoiding hardships. Historical figures showcase how embracing challenges can lead to personal growth. Listeners are inspired to transform difficult experiences into opportunities for development.
Feb 22, 2023 • 1h 4min
Anthony Everitt on Nero, Rome’s Most Misunderstood Emperor
In this engaging discussion, historian Anthony Everitt delves into the life of Emperor Nero, known for his controversial reign in ancient Rome. He explores how Nero's overbearing mother, Agrippina, shaped his moral compass, leading him away from Stoic philosophy. Everitt contrasts Nero with Marcus Aurelius, revealing how familial influences dictated their very different paths. The conversation also touches on Nero's complex legacy, including his persecution of Christians, and poses thought-provoking questions on morality and power in the face of tyranny.
79 snips
Feb 21, 2023 • 47min
Have You Considered This? | 60 Stoic Lessons In 1 Minute Or Less
Explore how personal taste shapes our opinions and the Stoic wisdom behind appreciating individual journeys. Discover practical lessons on self-empowerment, resilience, and the art of detachment, emphasizing personal values over societal judgments. Learn the power of saying no to distractions and the importance of reflection in emotional responses. Delve into the significance of resilience through historical narratives, highlighting how solitude can lead to deeper understanding and fulfillment in life's uncertainties.
23 snips
Feb 20, 2023 • 8min
How To Achieve Things | Reduce Wants, Increase Happiness
Discover the art of focus and concentration in a chaotic world. Explore how ancient Stoics, like Seneca, tackled distractions to achieve greatness. Learn from Epictetus about reducing desires as a pathway to happiness. Reflect on what 'enough' truly means, fostering contentment and gratitude. By tuning out the noise, both external and internal, you can find stillness and success in your life.
19 snips
Feb 19, 2023 • 14min
How to Create Change in Your Life
In this engaging talk, Anthony de Mello, an Indian Jesuit priest and renowned spiritual teacher, shares profound insights from his work, The Way to Love. He emphasizes that true change arises from awareness, not mere effort. Anthony delves into the misconceptions of spirituality, advocating for internal transformation over external techniques. He also discusses the power of non-judgmental awareness, highlighting how self-acceptance fosters genuine growth. Embracing effortless awareness allows us to experience fulfillment in the present moment.
220 snips
Feb 18, 2023 • 1h 9min
Sam Harris on Stoicism and Mindfulness Practice
Sam Harris, a prominent philosopher and neuroscientist, delves into the intersections of Eastern and Western philosophies. He emphasizes how mindfulness practices enhance Stoic principles and discusses the transformative effects of meditation on our emotional well-being. The conversation highlights the importance of ethical decision-making, especially in entrepreneurship, and critiques the negative impacts of social media on mental health. Through sharing personal experiences with psychedelics, Harris underscores the relevance of ancient philosophies for modern personal growth.
15 snips
Feb 17, 2023 • 8min
Just Put It On My Tab | The Enemy of Happiness
Marcus Aurelius faced relentless hardships but used acceptance to find happiness. Embracing adversity can lead to contentment in the present instead of bitterness. The podcast also explores how the constant chase for goals, illustrated by Zeno's paradox, can sabotage true happiness. It encourages listeners to shift focus from external validation to inner peace, highlighting the power of letting go of excessive yearning. By confronting life's challenges with this mindset, we can reclaim our joy.
22 snips
Feb 16, 2023 • 16min
This Isn’t The Way To Practice Detachment | Ask Daily Stoic
Seneca believed that true philosophy isn't about appearances or material renunciation. The conversation contrasts genuine internal peace with superficial signals of detachment. Practical tips for reading ancient texts are explored, offering ways to engage with philosophy more deeply. The conflict between short-term indulgences and long-term virtue is examined through the lens of 'Gladiator.' Finally, listeners are encouraged to experience life fully rather than ticking off a checklist, highlighting mindfulness and environmental awareness.
