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
May 3, 2021 • 9min
This is the Mindset For Life | Show, Don’t Tell
Explore the beauty of life's constant changes and the never-ending cycle of tasks that shape our days. Learn about the importance of patience in self-improvement, inspired by Epictetus, and the need to let thoughts develop before sharing them. Delve into a historical moment marked by a famous boxer's fight for principles amidst civil rights struggles, showcasing the strength of conviction in the face of adversity. Each topic invites reflection and inspires actionable insights for personal growth.
May 2, 2021 • 15min
Quintilian on How to Tell a Joke
In this episode, Quintilian, an Ancient Roman rhetorician and author, shares timeless secrets from his work on oratory and humor. He dives into the intricate relationship between humor and effective delivery, emphasizing its emotional depth. Listeners will discover the subjective nature of humor in public speaking, as he reflects on orators like Cicero. Quintilian also explores the nuances of wit and the challenge of teaching humor. Get ready to unlock the art of making people laugh while captivating any audience!
7 snips
May 1, 2021 • 1h 3min
Classics Scholar Robin Waterfield on Translating Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations - Pt.2
Robin Waterfield, a British classical scholar and translator renowned for his expertise in ancient Greek philosophy, discusses his new annotated translation of Marcus Aurelius’ 'Meditations.' He shares insights into the challenges of translating such a personal work meant for self-reflection. Waterfield explores key Stoic concepts and emphasizes the relevance of Aurelius' teachings in today’s world. He also reflects on the interplay of fame, rationality, and social justice within Stoicism, shedding light on the philosophy's impact on modern issues.
Apr 30, 2021 • 5min
The More You Learn, The Less You Know
Delve into the intriguing paradox of knowledge: the more you learn, the more you realize how little you truly know. Explore the continuous journey of embracing humility through Stoicism and the importance of awareness about one’s own ignorance. Discover 'Stoicism 101', a dynamic new course designed to deepen your understanding of Stoic principles with engaging content and community support. It's a perfect opportunity for personal growth and meaningful insights into ancient philosophy for modern life.
Apr 29, 2021 • 9min
Enjoy It While You Have It, Don’t Miss It When You Don’t | Washing Away the Dust of Life
The discussion revolves around embracing loss and finding perspective through the lens of Aesop's fable, urging listeners to value what they have. There’s a focus on the indifferent nature of events deemed 'bad', highlighting the importance of adopting a Stoic mindset. Exploring the vastness of existence, the conversation digs into existential questions and encourages a broader perspective on our lives. Additionally, a new Stoicism course is introduced, offering practical insights to help listeners navigate their daily challenges.
Apr 28, 2021 • 60min
Classics Scholar Robin Waterfield on Translating Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations - Pt.1 | There’s Only One Path To Greatness
In this conversation with Robin Waterfield, a distinguished British classical scholar and translator, the discussion dives deep into his new annotated translation of Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations. They explore the historical context of Marcus's life and the nuances between high and low philosophy. Waterfield emphasizes the impact of annotation for readers, and the relevance of Stoicism in daily life. The dialogue also reveals how Marcus navigated personal struggles and leadership challenges, offering powerful insights for modern readers.
Apr 27, 2021 • 7min
Life is School. School Is For Life
Explore the wisdom of ancient Stoic philosophy, as Marcus Aurelius demonstrates that learning never stops, even in old age. Discover how lifelong education shapes personal growth and wisdom. The introduction of a structured Stoicism 101 course offers a unique opportunity to dive into these principles with live sessions and daily content. Embrace the idea that cultivating knowledge and resilience is a lifelong journey, allowing you to navigate life's challenges with confidence.
Apr 26, 2021 • 10min
Your Shoulders Are Made of Ivory | The Freedom of Contempt
Marcus Aurelius wasn't born extraordinary, yet he left a lasting legacy—how? The discussion explores his methods for overcoming doubt through a Stoic mindset. Listeners learn to distinguish reality from illusion, reducing the grip of superficial desires. A rational perspective on wealth and status reveals the roots of jealousy, encouraging a deeper appreciation for life beyond appearances. The insights and teachings remind us that true freedom lies in our ability to reshape thoughts and embrace resilience.
Apr 25, 2021 • 29min
Sextus Empiricus on How to Keep an Open Mind
Sextus Empiricus, an Ancient Greek skeptic, shares insights on the art of skepticism and how it fosters an open mind. He discusses his five modes of skepticism, emphasizing how they can lead to tranquility by suspending judgment. The conversation explores the nuances of human experience and perception, revealing how these differences shape conflicting values. Empiricus also delves into the tension between myth and morality, exposing the complexities that arise from diverse belief systems and ethical perspectives.
Apr 24, 2021 • 1h 4min
YouTubers Sam and Colby on Fame and Practicing Memento Mori
In a captivating conversation, YouTube sensations Sam Golbach and Colby Brock explore their journey from early Vine fame to becoming a ghost-hunting duo with over 4 million YouTube subscribers. They delve into the reflections on fame's pressures and the profound practice of memento mori, emphasizing living intentionally. The duo shares insights on creating authentic content, overcoming personal challenges, and the intimate creator-audience relationship in the digital age. Their anecdotes weave together humor, philosophy, and the importance of making every moment count.
