

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

28 snips
Jan 21, 2023 • 1h 10min
Molly Bloom on Turning Down 5 Million Dollars
Molly Bloom, entrepreneur and author known for her high-stakes poker world, reflects on her journey from an Olympic skier to running underground games for the rich and famous. She shares a pivotal moment of choosing integrity over $5 million, emphasizing the importance of personal values and self-reflection. Molly discusses navigating emotions in decision-making, the impact of trusted feedback, and the illusions surrounding success and control. Her story is a journey of resilience, moral courage, and discovering true fulfillment beyond material wealth.

10 snips
Jan 20, 2023 • 13min
It’s Just Happening | Ask Daily Stoic
The discussion revolves around embracing life's adversities as common experiences, not personal failures. It sheds light on Marcus Aurelius' wisdom, offering practical insights from his 'Meditations'. The emotional toll of Stoicism is examined through the lens of military life, showcasing the resilience needed in tough situations. Additionally, the often-overlooked contributions of women in Stoic philosophy are highlighted, advocating for a more inclusive perspective on this ancient wisdom.

Jan 19, 2023 • 7min
Are You In Touch With Your Future? | Wherever You Go, There Your Choice Is
Explore the Stoic take on mortality with humor, as Gandhi lightens a painful moment by contemplating life’s fleeting nature. Delve into timeless wisdom from Marcus Aurelius, reminding us that age is irrelevant when facing death. Discover how personal choices shape our experience in every circumstance, be it luxury or loss. The podcast highlights the crucial role of virtue and decision-making, empowering listeners to embrace their freedom amid life's unpredictability.

Jan 18, 2023 • 57min
Champion Distance Runner Lauren Fleshman on the Power of Sport
Lauren Fleshman, a retired world champion track athlete and co-founder of Picky Bars, dives into her new book, exploring gender dynamics in sports and the power of storytelling. She highlights Stoic teachings on gender equality and discusses the unique challenges faced by female athletes, including body image and mental health. Fleshman emphasizes the importance of inclusivity, empathy, and balancing competitive sports with holistic life pursuits, urging for supportive environments that foster well-being alongside athletic success.

Jan 18, 2023 • 3min
You Know You’ve Made This Mistake
Explore the darker side of human nature as the discussion highlights shocking breaches of trust and morality. It raises the question of how ordinary people often commit wrongs in unremarkable ways. The conversation advocates for self-reflection and encourages a deeper understanding of human fallibility. Emphasizing empathy and forgiveness, it promotes a compassionate approach to mistakes, reminding us that everyone is capable of error.

54 snips
Jan 17, 2023 • 10min
A Person Without Boundaries Is Not a Person | 7 Stoic Keys To Happiness
Explore the intriguing concept of personal boundaries through the lens of Stoicism. Discover how Cato and Marcus Aurelius exemplified self-discipline and emotional resilience. Learn practical strategies to cultivate internal happiness in a world dominated by social media. Uncover seven Stoic principles that guide you toward a virtuous life, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness. This insightful discussion serves as a reminder of how defining yourself through boundaries can lead to true contentment.

19 snips
Jan 16, 2023 • 8min
The Things You Own…Can’t Own You | The Wake Up
Dive into the Stoic view on wealth and possessions, where financial success isn't the enemy, but attachment to material things is. Discover the importance of morning routines that boost your productivity and mindset. Learn about the power of journaling and reflection, essential tools for personal growth and inner peace. This thought-provoking discussion encourages a balanced approach to life, prioritizing virtue over ownership and setting the tone for a successful day.

30 snips
Jan 15, 2023 • 33min
Steven Pressfield on Creating Work That Lasts
Steven Pressfield, the author behind classics like "The War of Art" and "Turning Pro," shares insights from his life as a writer who faced 27 years of rejection before success. He reflects on the value of mentorship, the creative struggle between making art and marketing it, and the importance of committing to a routine. Their conversation highlights how repurposing content can breathe new life into old stories and emphasizes the role of virtuous relationships in personal growth. Pressfield's journey is a testament to resilience in the creative process.

43 snips
Jan 14, 2023 • 1h 4min
Mark Manson and the Catastrophe of Success
Mark Manson, self-help blogger and bestselling author known for books like "Everything Is F*cked," discusses the unexpected downsides of success, calling it a 'catastrophe' that often leads to anxiety and burnout. He shares insights about the need for creative breaks and maintaining a balance between ambition and well-being. Manson also critiques the self-help industry's manipulative tactics, advocating for genuine, actionable advice through his new documentary. Personal preferences in entertainment and the accessibility of philosophical wisdom are emphasized for holistic growth.

17 snips
Jan 13, 2023 • 20min
Don’t Disgrace Yourself | Ask Daily Stoic
Explore the intriguing life of Francis Bacon, who grappled with moral complexities alongside his philosophical brilliance. Discover how Stoicism encourages prioritizing personal choices over external distractions and the folly of trying to predict every outcome. Delve into the nuances of humility in personal growth and the importance of understanding opposing views for deeper learning. This engaging discussion reveals the challenges of ambition and the value of examining diverse perspectives for genuine self-improvement.


