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
Mar 8, 2021 • 7min
You Will Fight This Battle All Alone | What Expensive Things Cost
Life is often a solitary battle against challenges. The host discusses how societal pressures can cloud our pursuit of virtue and genuine happiness. Instead of chasing expensive possessions, we should prioritize meaningful relationships and experiences. A dive into the true cost of what we value highlights the importance of inner strength and resilience. Plus, the value of staying nourished through balanced nutrition is emphasized, paving the way for a healthier lifestyle.
15 snips
Mar 7, 2021 • 12min
How to Beat Procrastination With Stoicism
Procrastination plagues us all, but Stoicism offers powerful tools to conquer it. By prioritizing difficult tasks and establishing structured routines, we can boost productivity. The teachings of Stoic philosophers like Epictetus and Seneca remind us to focus on what we can control and view resistance as a cue for meaningful work. Every task presents a vital opportunity for growth, urging us to act with urgency and dedication. Dive into actionable strategies to transform your approach and reclaim your time!
10 snips
Mar 6, 2021 • 1h 3min
Allie Esiri On the Power of Poetry and Daily Reads
Allie Esiri, a writer and former actress known for her poetry anthologies like "Shakespeare for Every Day of the Year," dives into the profound influence of poetry on personal growth and mindfulness. She discusses the joys of daily reading rituals and the emotional depth of structured poetic forms. Their chat highlights the importance of diverse poetry, especially from women, and examines the evolving perception of poetry education. Esiri passionately advocates for poetry's relevance today, especially as a source of connection and solace during challenging times.
Mar 5, 2021 • 3min
Success Can Make People Better... Or Worse
Success can shape character in unexpected ways. Marcus Aurelius exemplified how power and philosophy can coexist harmoniously, becoming kinder and more reflective as he ruled. In contrast, Seneca's experience suggests that achievement might lead to moral compromise. This conversation probes the dual nature of success, challenging listeners to consider how their own character is influenced by their accomplishments.
Mar 4, 2021 • 8min
Respect the Man Who Stands Alone | Awareness Is Freedom
Explore the life of Cato, a symbol of courage who stood alone against the tide of popular opinion. Discover the vital importance of living by one's principles and respecting those who do the same. Reflect on personal autonomy and the true nature of freedom, especially in a world filled with conflicting pressures. This journey through history and philosophy encourages listeners to find their convictions and embrace the strength to stand firm, even when faced with adversity.
Mar 3, 2021 • 3min
Keep Doing This—You’ll Always Need It
The discussion revolves around the never-ending pursuit of wisdom and self-improvement through Stoicism. It highlights the commitment to lifelong learning, comparing it to the study of Torah. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on the teachings of historical Stoic philosophers and embrace the journey of personal growth. The central message is clear: your quest for knowledge and understanding continues until your last breath.
Mar 3, 2021 • 55min
Author Ron Lieber on Money and Values
In this insightful discussion, bestselling author and New York Times columnist Ron Lieber dives into the critical Stoic virtue of temperance and its role in financial education for children. He shares innovative strategies for parents to teach values through money management, emphasizing self-discipline and moderation. Lieber challenges traditional views on college and success, urging families to prioritize character over credentials. His approach redefines the financial journey to empower future generations while emphasizing meaningful experiences over societal pressures.
Mar 2, 2021 • 4min
Are You Really That Special?
Delve into the never-ending journey of wisdom, as the pursuit for knowledge is emphasized as a lifelong commitment. Explore the lessons from Marcus Aurelius, who exemplified humility despite his power, reminding us of our shared humanity. Discover how recognizing the ephemeral nature of success can keep our egos in check and foster a deeper understanding of our place in the world. This enlightening discussion encourages listeners to find balance in their aspirations and remain grounded.
Mar 1, 2021 • 7min
Don’t Get Even, Get Justice | Cultivate Indifference
In a time filled with anger, the importance of seeking true justice over revenge is emphasized. Small business owners face tough challenges, and efficient practices are crucial to prevent conflict. The philosophy of Stoicism is discussed, teaching us to embrace resilience and cultivate indifference. Instead of letting external circumstances dictate our emotions, the focus shifts to maintaining inner peace and responding thoughtfully to life’s challenges.
Feb 28, 2021 • 20min
Plutarch on How To Be A Leader
In this discussion, Jeffrey Beneker, a Professor of Classics, brings Plutarch’s wisdom on leadership to life. He highlights the stark contrast between educated leaders focused on their people's welfare versus those motivated by greed. The conversation dives into the importance of justice, virtue, and moral guidance in effective governance. Beneker also explores how leaders can responsibly delegate power, reflecting on historical influences that shaped principled stands, like Muhammad Ali's during the Vietnam War.
