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
6 snips
Feb 13, 2022 • 21min
Seneca on Despising Death
Seneca, a renowned Roman Stoic philosopher, shares profound insights on the nature of death and the importance of living in the present. He argues that worrying about future troubles only distracts us from today’s joys. By embracing mortality, Seneca illustrates how historical figures like Cato demonstrated remarkable courage in confronting death. He encourages acceptance, resilience, and gratitude for life, advocating for a mindset that defies fear and cultivates strength in the face of life's inevitable challenges.
5 snips
Feb 12, 2022 • 1h 4min
Jon Ronson on Empathy, Culture Wars, and Finding Community
Jon Ronson, an acclaimed writer and documentary filmmaker, shares insights on empathy amidst the chaos of culture wars and online shaming. He discusses the delicate balance between compassion and the pursuit of truth, emphasizing the need for connection in our fragmented society. The conversation also explores the complexities of cancel culture, journalistic ethics, and the impact of social media on public discourse. Ronson's unique perspective brings a fresh understanding of human behavior and the challenges we face in today's polarized landscape.
Feb 11, 2022 • 2min
Don’t Let Your Virtues Become This Vice
Delve into the fine line between virtue and vice as the discussion highlights the perils of pride. Discover the significance of pursuing personal growth purely for its own sake, rather than seeking external validation. The conversation encourages listeners to embrace humility and remain grounded on their self-improvement journey. It's a thought-provoking exploration of how our best intentions can sometimes lead to unintended consequences.
Feb 10, 2022 • 9min
The Most Temporary and Illusory State | Anger is Bad Fuel
Discover the fleeting nature of happiness and the unexpected challenges of life. The discussion delves into the pitfalls of using anger as a motivator, highlighting how it can damage relationships. Drawing on insights from Seneca and Michael Jordan, it emphasizes the importance of love and curiosity over resentment. Personal reflections reveal the destructiveness of anger and encourage healthier emotional responses for lasting fulfillment. Embrace a stoic mindset to navigate life's emotional hurdles effectively.
16 snips
Feb 9, 2022 • 1h 9min
Matthew B. Crawford on Practical Philosophy and Shop Class as Soulcraft | This is The Opinion To Care About
In this conversation, Matthew B. Crawford, a writer and research fellow known for his book *Shop Class as Soulcraft*, discusses the significance of practical philosophy in daily life. He highlights the contrast between hands-on craftsmanship and dry academic philosophy. They delve into our collective fear of death and unhealthy risk avoidance, making a case for embracing real-life challenges. Additionally, Crawford reflects on modern society's obsession with safety and the decline of authentic community interactions amidst the rise of digital connections.
Feb 8, 2022 • 3min
Here’s A Way To Get Some Timeless Stillness
Discover the importance of finding stillness in your life amid chaos. Explore the ancient tradition of Roman baths as havens of tranquility and their modern-day equivalents. Learn about the evolution of water access and its crucial role in our well-being. This discussion encourages listeners to tune out distractions and cultivate focus, enhancing both mental and physical health.
7 snips
Feb 7, 2022 • 9min
Losing Your Temper Is a Luxury | Suspend Your Opinions
Managing anger is crucial for clear communication and decision-making. Listeners learn that minor annoyances often trigger frustration, while major crises can elicit calmness. Adopting Stoic principles, like suspending opinions, fosters emotional regulation and personal growth. The discussion also highlights the importance of emotional detachment during heated debates, promoting inner peace in conflicting discussions. Embracing these strategies can lead to a more composed and fulfilling life.
Feb 6, 2022 • 15min
7 Stoic Lessons From An Abandoned Ghost Town (Cerro Gordo)
Discover profound insights from an abandoned ghost town as the journey highlights themes of beauty, mortality, and the art of living. Dive into the harsh realities faced by miners, reflecting on gratitude for modern comforts. Explore the importance of resilience and finding the right talent in business. Embrace the transient nature of possessions and the courage to pursue dreams despite challenges. Finally, learn the value of taking immediate action towards goals, inspired by Stoic philosophy.
Feb 5, 2022 • 1h 8min
X Mayo on Discipline, Christianity, and Practicing Stoicism in Hollywood
X Mayo, a talented actor, writer, and Emmy-nominated comedian, discusses the intricate balance between discipline and passion. She shares her journey from a strict Christian upbringing to embracing Stoicism, highlighting how resilience helps navigate the unpredictable entertainment industry. X explores the alignment of Stoic principles with modern Christianity and emphasizes self-love and authenticity. She humorously reflects on the challenges of maintaining a comedic voice in today's chaotic social media landscape while celebrating the importance of humor as a coping mechanism.
Feb 4, 2022 • 4min
Have A Near-Death Experience Every Morning
Explore how contemplating mortality can spark a meaningful life. Historical figures provide insights on embracing near-death experiences. Learn the power of the Memento Mori coin as a daily reminder to focus on what truly matters. This encourages reflection and intentional living, pushing you to confront life's fleeting nature. Transformative practices like reading obituaries foster a deeper appreciation for life and motivate you to act with purpose.
