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
Jun 2, 2021 • 1h 15min
Chris Bosh on Embracing the Process and Staying Present | This Cannot Be Allowed To Happen
Chris Bosh, a two-time NBA champion and author of "Letters To A Young Athlete," shares insights from his journey in basketball and personal growth. He emphasizes the importance of resilience and staying present, drawing from lessons learned through loss and success. Bosh discusses how diverse interests fuel creativity, the value of teamwork in high-pressure situations, and the joy of cherishing everyday moments with family. His reflections inspire a commitment to personal development and finding fulfillment beyond accolades.
Jun 1, 2021 • 3min
Take The Interior Voyage
Explore the profound connection we share with historical figures like Marcus Aurelius. Delve into the transformative power of journaling for self-discovery and emotional clarity. Reflective practices can unlock personal insights and deepen your understanding of yourself. Envision embarking on your own journaling adventure, inspired by the wisdom of a Roman Emperor who resonates through the ages.
May 31, 2021 • 9min
To What Do You Pledge Your Honor? | The View from Above
The discussion dives into the weight of sacred honor, comparing the commitment of the Founders to contemporary challenges. It encourages reflection on personal values and pledges in our lives. Another fascinating angle involves gaining a broader perspective on life's trials, likening it to viewing Earth from above. This shift in viewpoint fosters a deeper understanding of our shared humanity and inspires a greater sense of purpose beyond our daily struggles.
May 30, 2021 • 19min
Seneca on Philosophy and Friendship
Seneca, a renowned Roman Stoic philosopher, shares profound insights into the nature of friendship and the importance of self-sufficiency. He discusses how true happiness comes from within and the essential qualities of genuine friendships, emphasizing loyalty and selflessness over superficial connections. Through personal anecdotes and the correspondence with his friend Lucilius, Seneca illustrates the enriching power of philosophical dialogue and the value of supporting others in times of crisis.
May 29, 2021 • 59min
Charlie Mackesy on the Creative Process and Finding Enough
In this conversation, Charlie Mackesy, the bestselling author of "The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse," shares insights into his creative process and the beauty of finding contentment. He discusses the significance of vulnerability and the courage to seek help, contrasting traditional notions of strength. Mackesy explores the idea of emotional connections, emphasizing that love is expressed through actions rather than words. He also delves into redefining personal success and the pursuit of inner happiness amidst societal pressures, highlighting the true essence of fulfillment.
May 28, 2021 • 3min
This Reminder Hurts, But We Need It
The discussion highlights the stark reality of mortality through captivating historical anecdotes. King Pyrrhus, despite his power, met an unexpected end from a roof tile. Similarly, Harold Holt vanished during a casual swim. These stories serve as a reminder that life is unpredictable and fleeting. The conversation encourages reflecting on our own vulnerability and the importance of acknowledging our limited time. It's a call to embrace the uncertainties of existence and live more meaningfully.
May 27, 2021 • 7min
What You Need To Know About Most People | Sweat the Small Stuff
Discover how to navigate the complexities of human interactions, especially when confronted with negativity. Explore the importance of recognizing the goodness in humanity and focusing on kindness over jealousy and selfishness. Learn about the transformative power of small, consistent actions in achieving personal growth. Drawing on Stoic philosophy, the insights offer a refreshing perspective on cultivating positive habits for a better life.
May 26, 2021 • 1h 2min
Author Candice Millard on the Moments that Define Great Leaders | You Have To Get To The Outside
Candice Millard, a bestselling author known for her biographies of Theodore Roosevelt and Winston Churchill, joins to discuss the defining moments of great leaders. She highlights the significance of understanding historical context and how stepping back can bring clarity. Millard emphasizes the importance of competing with oneself while supporting others and reflects on the parenting dilemmas faced by ambitious leaders. Dive into the complex motivations driving historical figures and the relevance of their legacies in today's world.
May 25, 2021 • 3min
Those Who Read Little, Know Little
Delve into the profound link between reading and wisdom as historical Stoic figures reveal their love for books. Discover the essential role that reading plays in personal growth and how it can shape your perspective. Ryan introduces an engaging 13-day reading challenge to inspire listeners to enhance their reading habits. Embrace this journey and unlock new avenues of learning!
May 24, 2021 • 9min
This Is Why It's So Hard | Practice True Joy
Admitting mistakes can be a tough challenge for anyone, even Marcus Aurelius. The discussion highlights how confusion between our actions and identity can lead to cognitive dissonance. Listeners are urged to embrace humility and truth in reevaluating their beliefs. The podcast also explores Stoic joy, advocating for deeper, more meaningful connections over ephemeral pleasures. It reminds us that true joy stems from kindness and resilience, not materialism.
