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
Feb 10, 2021 • 4min
What Did the Stoics Think About Politics?
Explore the intriguing intersection of Stoicism and politics. Discover why the Stoics believed in civic duty and the importance of moral integrity in governance. Learn how ancient wisdom guides us to demand virtue from our leaders. The conversation emphasizes the need for engagement in today’s political landscape, highlighting that apathy is not an option. Dive into how Stoic principles can empower us to navigate modern challenges with clarity and purpose.
Feb 10, 2021 • 1h 2min
Amelia Boone On Excellence and Endurance
Amelia Boone, a four-time world champion obstacle racer and attorney, shares her unique insights on balancing careers and the emotional challenges athletes face. She discusses the importance of structure and the role of Stoicism in managing emotions, especially during the pandemic. Amelia emphasizes the value of confronting feelings rather than suppressing them, and highlights the significance of seeking support and building community. Her journey reveals how endurance sports mirror deeper life challenges, encouraging listeners to embrace vulnerability.
Feb 9, 2021 • 3min
No, The World Is Not Conspiring Against You
It's easy to feel like the world is against you, especially when embarking on important endeavors. This discussion dives into the frustrations of dealing with incompetence and negativity around us. Drawing inspiration from Marcus Aurelius, it emphasizes the power of personal accountability. Instead of blaming external factors, the focus should shift towards self-improvement and resilience. Ultimately, it's a call to channel energy into becoming better, rather than fixating on the flaws of others.
Feb 8, 2021 • 8min
There Is Nothing Beneath the Philosopher | Suspend Your Opinions
Explore the journey of small business owners facing HR challenges, as practical tools blend with Stoic wisdom for a smoother week ahead. Dive into the philosophy of acceptance, where suspending opinions leads to inner peace. Discover how the resilience of thinkers like Musonius Rufus and Marcus Aurelius molds our approach to adversity. It’s a refreshing take on improving oneself amidst life's complexities!
Feb 7, 2021 • 11min
How To Use Stoicism To Control Your Anger
Discover how Stoicism offers powerful tools for managing anger through practical wisdom from historical figures like Marcus Aurelius and Seneca. Learn to accept responsibility for your emotions and reshape your narratives for emotional resilience. The podcast emphasizes the importance of empathy and gratitude in transforming anger, highlighting how understanding human imperfections can alleviate frustration. It also provides strategies for effective emotional control, especially for leaders, to navigate life's challenges with greater calm.
Feb 6, 2021 • 1h 3min
Jonathan Church On Terminal Cancer and Making Peace with Fate
In a profound conversation, economist and writer Jonathan Church shares his journey after a brain cancer diagnosis. He reveals his unexpected emotional reaction, switching from dread to acceptance as he explores mortality through the lens of Stoicism. The discussion highlights the importance of emotional resilience and critiques societal notions of toxic masculinity. Church also tackles complex topics like microaggressions and white fragility, advocating for open dialogue in a polarized world. His insights remind us to focus on what we can control amidst life’s uncertainties.
Feb 5, 2021 • 2min
Is This What You Spend Your Life For?
Explore the haunting themes in a novel about the rise of fascism and how it reflects on our pursuits. The discussion turns to the true cost of our ambitions and the importance of valuing time wisely. Are we chasing fleeting wealth or seeking deeper meaning in life? This thought-provoking analysis invites listeners to reflect on their priorities and the essence of a fulfilling life.
Feb 4, 2021 • 7min
You Don’t Have To Do This Anymore | On Being Invincible
In a revealing moment from a Taylor Swift documentary, the struggle with self-criticism takes center stage, prompting a discussion on breaking harmful thought patterns. The conversation dives deep into Stoic philosophies, emphasizing the importance of proactive self-talk and emotional resilience. Listeners are encouraged to embrace positive change and maintain composure when faced with challenges, drawing inspiration from public figures. It's a powerful exploration of overcoming negativity and cultivating inner strength.
Feb 3, 2021 • 1h 3min
Bryan Doerries On the Power of Greek Tragedy and Seneca’s Plays
Bryan Doerries, founder of Theater of War and advocate for using ancient Greek plays in healing, discusses the transformative power of theater. He emphasizes how Greek tragedies can help service members and veterans process trauma, bridging traditional literary elitism with personal experience. Doerries connects Stoicism and suffering to highlight the universality of struggles while encouraging a more relatable approach to these works. He also explores the ethical dimensions of theater, illustrating its potential as both a healing tool and a platform for social commentary.
Feb 3, 2021 • 2min
The Highway Don’t Care
This discussion dives into the harsh realities we face, emphasizing that safety and good intentions don't shield us from life's indifference. The host encourages listeners to confront the uncertainty of existence. There's a spotlight on the importance of therapy as a tool for resilience, highlighting how it can be an accessible pathway to healing. Ultimately, it drives home the message of embracing life's unpredictability with awareness and strength.
