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
Nov 7, 2021 • 21min
Courage Is Calling | Going Beyond The Call
In a compelling discussion, the host examines the heroic stand of the 300 Spartans at Thermopylae, emphasizing their courage against overwhelming odds. Themes of self-discovery and bravery resonate as lessons in the face of fear. Insights on the significance of mental health and accessible support are introduced, alongside the enduring impact of love and sacrifice. The podcast also touches on the rich legacy of valor, illustrating how true greatness is defined by acts of selflessness.
Nov 6, 2021 • 1h 3min
Michael Dell on Calculating Risk and Playing Nice But Winning
Michael Dell, Founder and CEO of Dell Technologies, discusses his journey from entrepreneur to industry leader. He emphasizes the importance of balancing self-trust with expert opinions and focusing on what can be controlled. Dell shares insights on navigating success, ethics in business, and the complexities of personal ambition versus familial expectations. He also addresses the challenges of decision-making in health and government and advocates for sustainable practices amid short-term pressures in today’s market.
Nov 5, 2021 • 3min
This is the Struggle
In this episode, the host delves into the art of emotional control, drawing inspiration from Stoic philosophy. A captivating story about a baseball player's graceful handling of a disruptive crowd reveals the power of composure under pressure. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on how Stoicism promotes thoughtful responses to life's challenges, showcasing the profound lessons that sportsmanship can teach us in moments of frustration.
Nov 4, 2021 • 9min
Why Aren’t You Virtue Signaling? | Not Good, Nor Bad
Dive into the paradox of virtue signaling and its impact on modern discourse. Explore the tension between ideals and human behavior, and how acceptance plays a crucial role in navigating life's changes. Discover the importance of embracing reality without the burden of labels, allowing for personal growth. Unpack the complexities of virtue and judgment, and learn how to respond constructively to change. These insights draw heavily from the principles of Stoic philosophy, offering a fresh perspective on navigating ethical discussions.
Nov 3, 2021 • 1h 1min
Dr. Kara Cooney on the Power Strategies of the Ancient World | This Is The Secret To Stoicism
Dr. Kara Cooney, a UCLA professor and Egyptologist, dives into the ancient power tactics explored in her book, The Good Kings. She discusses the balance of short-term and long-term thinking crucial for maintaining power in ancient Egypt. The conversation weaves through historical figures like Akhenaten, touching on how privilege and entitlement shaped leadership dynamics throughout history. Cooney also contrasts ancient governance with modern societal issues, emphasizing the need for integrity and responsible leadership in today's world.
6 snips
Nov 2, 2021 • 3min
If You Stay Ready, You Don’t Have To Get Ready
Readiness is key to navigating life's surprises. Drawing parallels from the NFL, the discussion emphasizes the importance of mental and physical preparation. Stoic philosophy comes into play, underscoring resilience as a result of anticipating challenges. The wisdom shared is a powerful reminder that staying prepared means we can tackle adversity head-on.
Nov 1, 2021 • 11min
It Can Happen To You | Accepting What Is
Discover the importance of preparing for life's uncertainties as Ryan delves into the unpredictability of loss and hardship. Embrace the wisdom of Stoic philosophers like Seneca and Epictetus, learning to accept reality while nurturing gratitude. Explore the balance between acceptance and proactive engagement in life's challenges, urging listeners to reflect critically on Stoic teachings for personal growth. This enlightening discussion underscores that adversity can affect us all, highlighting resilience and acceptance as powerful tools.
Oct 31, 2021 • 11min
Why You Should Re-Read, Not Just Read Books
Discover the power of revisiting classic literature, inspired by thinkers like Seneca and Marcus Aurelius. Learn why rereading can unlock deeper insights and personal growth as our interpretations evolve. Practical tips connect the art of rereading to business efficiency, underscoring the value of thoughtful reading. Through engaging anecdotes, the transformative impact of familiar texts is highlighted, encouraging a lifelong relationship with our favorite books. Dive into the journey of understanding literature like never before!
5 snips
Oct 30, 2021 • 1h 5min
Powerlifter Stefi Cohen on Self-Mastery and Visualizing Negative Outcomes
In this engaging conversation, Stefi Cohen, a 25x world-record-holding powerlifter, discusses her transformative journey from weightlifting to boxing. She shares insights on self-mastery, the gradual shift from great to world-class, and the mental resilience needed to face competition. Stefi emphasizes the importance of understanding when to push forward or step back, exploring the emotional complexities athletes encounter. With a focus on visualization and confronting fears, she encourages intentional living and embracing challenges, ultimately reflecting on the power of perseverance.
Oct 29, 2021 • 3min
What Have You Done?
Explore the importance of evaluating your impact on the world. Reflect on your responsibilities during crises and how you can contribute positively. Dive into the challenges of accessing mental health support, with insights into Talkspace as a helpful resource. This thought-provoking discussion prompts you to consider the actions you can take to create meaningful change.
