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
Jul 22, 2021 • 6min
Perfect Is Not The Goal | No One Has A Gun To Your Head
Exploring the path of self-improvement, the discussion emphasizes that perfection is not the ultimate goal. Instead, listeners are encouraged to focus on making small, meaningful changes in daily life. The power of choice is highlighted, with moral decisions shaping our character and encouraging personal growth. Literary and biblical references deepen the understanding of free will and the importance of intentions in ethical decision-making. This episode inspires introspection and the pursuit of continuous development over unattainable ideals.
Jul 21, 2021 • 1h 19min
Author Phillip Barlag on Roman History’s Lessons for Modern Life | This is Where Your Temper Will Take You
Phillip Barlag, an expert on Roman history and leadership, dives into the life of Emperor Nero and contrasts it with Commodus’s reign. He reveals fascinating insights on how anger and power shaped their leadership styles and explores the moral implications of their actions. Barlag also discusses Marcus Aurelius's unexpected rise and the lessons modern leaders can draw from these historical figures. Through anecdotes and philosophical reflections, the conversation unveils the intricacies of human behavior and power dynamics in both ancient and contemporary contexts.
Jul 20, 2021 • 2min
Keep Returning Home
Exploring the transformative power of returning home, the discussion delves into the emotional experiences tied to revisiting one's roots. It highlights how personal growth coexists with familiar settings that seem unchanged. Listeners are encouraged to embrace Stoic philosophy to navigate the challenges of life's constant transformations. The conversations reflect on the balance between nostalgia and personal evolution, reminding us that while places may remain the same, we are always moving forward.
Jul 19, 2021 • 10min
You Don’t Need To Be So Reachable | Practice Gentleness Instead of Anger
Dive into the tension between constant digital connectivity and the need for stillness. Explore ancient wisdom that champions gentleness over anger, emphasizing the power of self-control in modern life. Hear anecdotes that illustrate how patience and calm responses can forge stronger relationships. Reflect on your own technology habits and consider simpler communication methods for a more intentional approach.
Jul 18, 2021 • 17min
10 Pieces of Life Changing Wisdom From the Stoics
Dive into the timeless wisdom of Stoicism with ten powerful principles that can reshape your life. Discover 'memento mori' and 'amor fati,' embracing each moment as an opportunity for growth. Learn how Marcus Aurelius managed his emotions, stressing the significance of composure amidst chaos. Explore the disciplined routines that led to excellence, demonstrating the Stoic belief in consistent action and character. This insightful journey reveals how these ancient teachings remain profoundly relevant today.
Jul 17, 2021 • 1h 22min
NFL Cornerback Jeff Okudah on Achieving Greatness
NFL cornerback Jeff Okudah, known for his stellar time at Ohio State and his journey with the Detroit Lions, shares insights on managing expectations and overcoming the mental challenges of professional sports. He delves into the importance of reading and how it transforms one's perspective, emphasizing books like 'The Alchemist.' Okudah also discusses the significance of resilience, especially when facing injuries and criticism, and how he uses Stoic principles to navigate the pressures of being a top draft pick.
Jul 16, 2021 • 2min
Can You Handle This?
The discussion dives into the emotional turmoil of facing criticism after doing the right thing. It explores the challenges small businesses encounter during hiring and highlights LinkedIn Jobs as a solution. The conversation emphasizes resilience and self-control when confronting life's adversities, offering philosophical insights that inspire listeners to navigate their struggles with strength and grace.
Jul 15, 2021 • 7min
There's Two Ways To Go | Doing The Right Thing Is Enough
The podcast dives into the crucial theme of navigating difficult choices, using historical examples to highlight the struggle between acceptance and resistance. It emphasizes the importance of standing firm for one's values, even in the face of overwhelming odds. Listeners are encouraged to prioritize integrity and act according to personal beliefs rather than seeking external validation. With a focus on the value of doing the right thing for its own sake, it inspires introspection and commitment to one's principles.
Jul 14, 2021 • 1h 15min
Dave Asprey on Fasting and Optimizing Your Life | You Just Had A Scare
Dave Asprey, founder of Bulletproof and a bestselling author, dives deep into the art of fasting and optimizing life. He discusses the transformative benefits of intermittent fasting, including enhancements in physical and mental performance. Asprey shares practical strategies for mastering fasting and maintaining metabolic flexibility. He also explores how modern abundance challenges our instincts and emphasizes the importance of temperance. Listeners can learn how balancing dietary practices can lead to meaningful experiences and improved well-being.
Jul 13, 2021 • 3min
Criticism is Loud, Respect is Quiet
Navigating through a sea of opinions, the discussion illustrates how loud criticisms often drown out the quiet respect from the majority. Listeners are encouraged to stay true to their values despite external negativity. Drawing on Stoic philosophy, the conversation emphasizes the importance of tuning out dissent in pursuit of personal growth. It reminds us that the supportive voices may be silent, but they hold incredible power.
