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
18 snips
Aug 9, 2022 • 13min
This is All It’s Good For | 3 Stoic Mantras To Build Your Life On
Dive into the world of Stoicism as it explores the significance of reading and the relentless human pursuit of knowledge and recognition. Discover how classic teachings can be applied to modern life, including the wisdom of embracing challenges through 'memento mori' and 'amor fati.' This conversation highlights the importance of character in finding meaning amidst struggles while encouraging resilience and personal growth. Tune in to learn how to transform life's impermanence into opportunities for excellence.
Aug 8, 2022 • 9min
You Can’t Resent Them | What Little Wins Can You Find
Explore how integrity forms the backbone of effective leadership through Stoic philosophy. Delve into the lessons of Marcus Aurelius on discipline and self-control. Discover the power of celebrating small victories on your journey to larger goals. Learn how consistent efforts can lead to significant personal growth over time, transforming your perspective on progress. Embrace the mindset that every little win counts in striving for greatness.
4 snips
Aug 7, 2022 • 21min
Aristotle on How to Tell Story
In this enlightening discussion, Aristotle, the Ancient Greek philosopher and scientist, dives into the art of storytelling. He emphasizes its pivotal role in communication and thought, drawing from his work in Poetics. Aristotle unpacks the nuances of various poetic forms—epic, tragic, and comedic—highlighting character representation and moral implications. He also explores how storytelling and poetry evolve through history, revealing humanity’s innate talent for imitation and expression. This conversation is a treasure trove of wisdom for writers and readers alike.
Aug 6, 2022 • 1h 10min
John Barry on the Great Influenza and the Value of Truth
John M. Barry, a prize-winning author renowned for chronicling the 1918 influenza pandemic and the Great Mississippi Flood, shares deep insights on pandemic responses. He draws parallels between past and present public reactions, emphasizing the need for truth and community service. Barry discusses how crises reveal human character, stressing the role of empathy amid societal indifference. He also reflects on resilience in New Orleans post-Katrina, advocating for effective communication in public health as a cornerstone of collective well-being.
12 snips
Aug 5, 2022 • 13min
Life is a Team Sport | Ask Daily Stoic
Discover how teamwork is essential for personal achievement as it serves a greater good, inspired by a college football player's perspective. Dive into the rich dialogue between Stoicism and Epicureanism as ancient philosophers explore their interconnectedness. Learn practical Stoic strategies for managing anger, emphasizing self-control, reflection, and the power of pausing before reacting and journaling to navigate emotions effectively.
8 snips
Aug 4, 2022 • 9min
Trust Your Prep List | No Blame, Just Focus
Trusting your preparation can make all the difference in chaotic moments, as routine and self-improvement keep you grounded. Historical figures like Nelson Mandela exemplify resilience, showcasing how dignity and forgiveness are vital when facing adversity. The power of Stoicism is emphasized, urging listeners to reflect on life’s fleeting nature. Remembering Memento Mori inspires a meaningful existence, reminding us to embrace inner strength even in hardship.
4 snips
Aug 3, 2022 • 4min
The Earth Is Big And Has Room For Everyone
Explore the intricate responsibilities small business owners face, especially in managing human resources with streamlined tools. Delve into humanity's richness, balancing the good and bad, as inspired by the Odyssey and Marcus Aurelius. Discover techniques to transform anger and achieve serenity, alongside engaging discussions of historical themes that illuminate the human experience. A journey through personal integrity and emotional mastery awaits!
Aug 3, 2022 • 1h 4min
Molly Jong-Fast on Generational Trauma and Cancel Culture
Molly Jong-Fast, a contributing writer at The Atlantic and host of The New Abnormal, dives into the depths of generational trauma and its implications on parenting. She discusses how cancel culture shapes societal dynamics and the moral panic surrounding it. The conversation weaves through the emotional challenges of motherhood, creativity under pressure, and the complexities of fostering hope in children during crises. Molly emphasizes navigating these turbulent times with acceptance, personal responsibility, and the potential for positive change.
4 snips
Aug 2, 2022 • 12min
Don’t Just Be Tough, Be Practical | 7 Stoic Stories To Guide You Through Life
Discover how Stoicism can guide you through life's challenges with practical wisdom. Learn to embrace adversity, control your reactions, and recognize what 'enough' truly means for happiness. The impact of small acts of courage shines through historical examples, illustrating the power of integrity. Explore decisive actions from the past and their outcomes, highlighting resilience as a key to overcoming obstacles. Unite these timeless lessons with engaging stories that inspire listeners to navigate chaos with strength and purpose.
6 snips
Aug 1, 2022 • 8min
Your Weakness Can Be Your Strength | A Week Without Complaining
Uncover how embracing perceived weaknesses can lead to unique strengths, especially in sports. Discover the inspiring story of Tony Hawk and how limitations sparked creativity in his skateboarding journey. Delve into Marcus Aurelius' teachings on the importance of a no-complaint mentality, highlighting self-control and personal responsibility. Learn how challenges can transform into opportunities for growth with Stoic wisdom guiding your mindset.
