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
Jan 24, 2021 • 13min
How the Stoics Can Make You A Better Leader
Leadership lessons from Stoic philosophy reveal powerful insights. Marcus Aurelius and Epictetus provide historical context on the responsibilities of leaders. Calmness is essential for navigating challenges effectively. Adaptability and a focus on the collective good are emphasized as key traits of successful leadership. Plus, discover resources like 'Daily Dad' for parenting and 'Redacted Declassified Mysteries' for intriguing historical narratives!
Jan 23, 2021 • 1h 14min
Susan Straight on the Power of Story
Susan Straight, an award-winning author and professor at UC Riverside, shares insights on the transformative power of storytelling. She discusses how personal narratives, particularly those of women, often go unrecorded in history. The conversation explores the joy of writing and the impact of literature on identity and community. Susan reflects on her childhood in Riverside, reminiscing about the influence of place on creativity. She emphasizes how stories shape personal and collective histories, connecting individuals to their roots and to one another.
Jan 22, 2021 • 3min
There Are Only Hard Decisions
Leadership isn’t as simple as it seems; it often involves navigating tough choices. The discussion dives into the complexities leaders face, reflecting on historical figures like Marcus Aurelius. It emphasizes the weight of responsibility that comes with decision-making, showcasing that challenges are rarely straightforward. Expect insights on how to embrace the difficult decisions that shape effective leadership.
Jan 21, 2021 • 6min
You Get Bad Breaks… and Good Ones | A Morning Ritual
Explore how Seneca’s dramatic life—from banishment to power—teaches us about resilience. Discover the importance of morning rituals for clarity and self-reflection. The podcast also emphasizes innovative education tailored to children's unique learning styles, blending Stoic wisdom with practical applications. Learn how to incorporate these insights to navigate life's ups and downs.
Jan 20, 2021 • 2min
All The Rest Is Commentary
Explore the key principles of Stoicism and how they can transform your life. The importance of therapy is discussed, along with barriers that prevent people from seeking help. Discover the teachings of courage, temperance, justice, and wisdom, and learn why embodying these values is essential. This engaging conversation highlights that the essence of philosophy is simple: love thy neighbor as thyself, and everything else is merely commentary.
Jan 20, 2021 • 1h 15min
Mike Duncan On Using the Past to Guide the Future
Mike Duncan, a renowned author and historian, shares insights from his works, including The Storm Before The Storm, and his highly popular podcasts on Roman history. He draws alarming parallels between the decline of the Roman Republic and today's political landscape in America, emphasizing the need for accountability post-January 6th. The discussion also delves into political integrity, contrasting historical figures like Cato with modern leaders. Duncan's analysis highlights how understanding historical cycles can provide lessons for navigating current political complexities.
Jan 19, 2021 • 2min
Wake Up, You’re Fever Dreaming
Explore the intense pull of desire and ambition that drives us to chase promotions, relationships, and possessions. Discover how this relentless pursuit can become a fever dream—an obsession that ultimately leads to disillusionment. Delve into Stoic philosophy to uncover the hidden costs of striving for pleasure and the importance of reevaluating our wants. Reflect on ancient wisdom to awaken from the delusions surrounding our desires, inviting a deeper understanding of what truly matters.
Jan 18, 2021 • 8min
You Are Dying Every Day | The Wake Up
Death reminds us to cherish life. Embracing our mortality can unlock a profound appreciation for each day. Starting your morning with intention shapes a productive mindset. Insights from philosophers like Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius highlight the importance of reducing distractions. Reflective journaling enhances mental clarity, fostering personal growth. These practices encourage a deliberate approach to life, inviting listeners to fully engage with their experiences.
Jan 17, 2021 • 19min
Stoicism's Simple Secret To Being Happier
Discover the Stoic approach to happiness, which prioritizes contentment over the constant chase for pleasure. Learn how focusing on present gratitude and acceptance can lead to a more fulfilling life. Explore the tension between ambition and true happiness, and the importance of celebrating successes rather than fixating on failures. Delve into the creative process, finding joy in creation, and recognize that success does not always equate to happiness, as even high achievers often struggle with mental well-being.
43 snips
Jan 16, 2021 • 1h 1min
Cal Newport On the Art of Time Blocking
Cal Newport, an associate professor at Georgetown University and author of 'Deep Work,' discusses his innovative Time-Block Planner. He delves into the challenges of post-COVID life, emphasizing structured time management as a key to productivity. Newport highlights the importance of distinguishing between planning and journaling, while also advocating for the simplicity of time blocking to alleviate anxiety. He shares insights about personal growth tracking and navigating social dynamics in this evolving landscape. A must-listen for anyone looking to enhance their focus!
