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
Mar 15, 2022 • 3min
Are You Better or Worse?
Dive into the power of self-examination and personal growth. Reflect on how challenges, like the Antonine Plague, can shape character. Engage in a critical assessment of the past two years and evaluate if experiences have made you better or worse. Explore insights from Marcus Aurelius on courage and justice to inspire your journey.
10 snips
Mar 14, 2022 • 11min
So, How Did You Do? | Think About It from the Other Person’s Perspective
COVID-19 has reshaped our world, prompting deep reflection on personal growth and adaptability. Exploring strategic empathy, the discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding different viewpoints in fostering better relationships. Historical examples, like the Kennedy administration during the Cuban Missile Crisis, showcase how empathy can impact diplomacy and personal development. By cultivating a stoic mindset, the podcast encourages listeners to embrace their journeys and enhance their interactions with others.
8 snips
Mar 13, 2022 • 12min
9 Stoic Rules For A Better Life (From Marcus Aurelius)
Explore how to take control of your happiness with nine actionable rules from the legendary Marcus Aurelius. Delve into the Stoic principles of courage, wisdom, and self-discipline that can transform obstacles into growth opportunities. Learn to embrace life's challenges with a proactive mindset and find purpose through good character and community involvement. Reflect on the idea of memento mori to better appreciate life's fragility and act with intention every day.
Mar 12, 2022 • 1h 9min
Roosevelt Montás on Socrates and the Universality of the Classics
Roosevelt Montás, Director of the Freedom and Citizenship Program at Columbia University and author of "Rescuing Socrates," shares his transformative journey sparked by discovering a copy of Socrates. He delves into how classical texts blur racial and class lines, emphasizing their universal relevance today. Montás highlights the importance of philosophical inquiry for youth, the interconnectedness of ancient thinkers, and how classical ideas have fueled modern civil rights movements. He advocates for diversifying the literary canon to include marginalized voices.
Mar 11, 2022 • 3min
Do The Little Thing, It’s All The Matters
Discover why small actions can lead to significant change in personal and community life. Learn how Stoic philosophy values these meaningful gestures over grand political efforts. Uncover the challenges small businesses face when hiring and how LinkedIn Jobs can streamline the recruitment process. Dive into the benefits of AI tools for writing job descriptions, empowering business owners in their search for the perfect candidates. It's a reminder that every little step counts!
6 snips
Mar 10, 2022 • 9min
You Don’t Get To Learn By Trial and Error | Find Yourself a Cato
Discover the power of learning from others' experiences as a shortcut to personal growth. Embrace the concept of having a guiding figure—a 'Cato'—to navigate ethical choices. Explore how reflecting on your personal heroes can elevate your decision-making standards. Dive into inspiring historical examples that motivate accountability and behavior change. This insightful session encourages you to engage with the teachings of Stoic philosophy while applying them in real-life challenges.
4 snips
Mar 9, 2022 • 1h 26min
Elliot Ackerman on Writing, Military Service, and Polarization | People Do Well When They Can
Elliot Ackerman, an acclaimed author and former Marine, shares insights from his life and writing journey. He discusses how military service influences creativity, emphasizing the psychological complexities involved. Ackerman delves into the consequences of polarization in society, linking it to his experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan. He also sheds light on the importance of empathy in storytelling and the moral dilemmas faced by soldiers. With a focus on resilience amid chaos, his reflections on duty and personal growth resonate deeply.
Mar 8, 2022 • 3min
What Would You Do More Of?
Consider how you truly want to spend your time. Embrace the powerful reminder of memento mori, which urges you to confront your mortality. By reflecting on life's urgency, prioritize your passions and make the most of each moment. This discussion draws on the wisdom of Marcus Aurelius, encouraging a meaningful approach to life.
Mar 7, 2022 • 8min
What Would You Do Less Of? | What Expensive Things Cost
Discover the powerful practice of Memento Mori and its importance in daily life. Delve into the hidden costs of time and the emotional toll of material possessions. Reflect on how our pursuits can shape our happiness and relationships. Personal anecdotes highlight the need to prioritize what truly matters, encouraging a shift from material attachments to meaningful connections. Join the conversation on living intentionally and evaluating what you could do less of!
Mar 6, 2022 • 14min
8 Ways To Make Courage A Habit (From The Stoics)
Dive into the power of courage as a practice rooted in Stoic philosophy. Discover how everyday challenges can be reframed as tests of bravery. Listen to inspiring stories, including one woman's journey to become a nurse, as she embraces her true calling against societal expectations. Explore historical examples of heroism that show bravery in both grand and small moments. Learn practical exercises to cultivate daily courage and understand why it's the cornerstone of a wise life.
