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
Feb 15, 2023 • 5min
How To Be Free
Explore the profound impact of Ruby Doris Smith's life and her thoughts on inner freedom. Discover how freedom is more than a legal concept; it's a conscious choice shaped by self-discipline. The podcast encourages listeners to find their own path to inner liberation, even amidst societal obstacles. The principles rooted in Stoic philosophy invite reflections on achieving true freedom from within.
52 snips
Feb 15, 2023 • 56min
Massimo Pigliucci on Why Virtue Matters
In this discussion, Professor Massimo Pigliucci explores insights from his book on leadership, drawing lessons from Socrates and Alcibiades. He highlights the tension between virtue and pragmatism, suggesting that effective leaders must integrate both moral excellence and practical skills. The conversation dives into the historical dynamics of mentorship and the ideals of figures like Marcus Aurelius and Gandhi, advocating for the need to embed ethical considerations in education to prepare future leaders. Humor’s role in philosophy is also examined, emphasizing its potential to uncover deeper truths.
13 snips
Feb 14, 2023 • 16min
The Right Time Is Right Now | The Virtue That Made Marcus Aurelius So Great
Procrastination is the enemy of progress, and the time to act is now! Explore how Marcus Aurelius embraced the Stoic philosophy to seize the moment, inspired by his mentor Antoninus Pius. Their impactful relationship highlights the virtues of discipline, humility, and self-control. This exploration serves as a motivating reminder that the right time to make a change is always at hand!
17 snips
Feb 13, 2023 • 9min
How To Become Rich | Watch Over Your Perceptions
Explore the intriguing conversation between Kurt Vonnegut and Joseph Heller about the essence of wealth. Heller's response about having 'enough' highlights the wisdom of contentment over material gains. The dialogue leads to a reflection on Stoic teachings, emphasizing the significance of managing perceptions to achieve inner peace. Discover how clarity amidst chaos can redefine our understanding of true wealth and tranquility.
35 snips
Feb 12, 2023 • 20min
How to Enjoy Life Fully
In this insightful discussion, Anthony DeMeo, an Indian Jesuit priest and psychotherapist, shares his meditations on love and awareness. He delves into how our societal programming can skew our understanding of love and happiness. DeMeo emphasizes breaking free from attachments that foster negative emotions and urges listeners to find true joy within themselves. He explores the mind's functions, revealing how to reframe emotional responses and detach from external validation, leading to a more fulfilling life.
82 snips
Feb 11, 2023 • 1h 7min
Dr. Samantha Boardman on Turning Stress in Strength
Dr. Samantha Boardman, a New York-based Positive Psychologist and author of 'Everyday Vitality,' discusses transformative approaches to stress. She emphasizes that stress can be reframed as a catalyst for strength and resilience. With insights on building a 'delight muscle' to appreciate everyday joy, she promotes small habits that can enhance well-being. The conversation also touches on overcoming fears related to therapy and the power of personal narratives in finding strength through adversity.
15 snips
Feb 10, 2023 • 10min
How To Handle A Bad Call | Anger is Bad Fuel
Explore the fallout from a controversial Super Bowl decision made by Pete Carroll, and how he handled the media storm with accountability. Discover why relying on anger is a poor long-term strategy and how embracing responsibility can lead to growth. Learn about healthier motivators like love and fascination as alternatives to anger, backed by historical examples and personal anecdotes. This blend of sports history and leadership insights offers valuable lessons for anyone navigating challenges.
9 snips
Feb 9, 2023 • 9min
What Will This Cause? | Ask Daily Stoic
Life often throws us curveballs, prompting questions like 'Why me?' instead of the more productive, 'What will this cause?' This discussion dives into how we can transform grief into purpose, especially in the face of deep loss. It highlights the importance of resilience, particularly for young people, and illustrates practical applications of Stoic wisdom. Learn how personal stories and self-education can empower us to turn adversity into strength.
Feb 8, 2023 • 3min
Turn To This Friend Constantly
Susan Orlean shares the enchanting impact of libraries, particularly during the Los Angeles Public Library fire. She reflects on the solitude found in empty spaces filled with countless voices from books. The discussion touches on how reading philosophical texts in tranquil environments fosters wisdom. It highlights the unique companionship literature provides, turning pages into loyal friends that guide us through life's complexities.
9 snips
Feb 8, 2023 • 1h 7min
John Hendrickson on Embracing Disability with Stoicism
In this conversation, John Hendrickson, an author and Senior Editor at The Atlantic, shares his journey with stuttering and its profound impact on his life. He discusses how Stoic philosophy helped him embrace his challenges and open up about his experiences. The conversation emphasizes resilience, the importance of mindful communication, and the strength found in vulnerability. John illustrates how perceived weaknesses can transform into sources of empowerment, inspiring listeners to confront their own struggles and find growth amid adversity.
