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
Oct 21, 2020 • 4min
Don’t Listen to the Complicit
Dive into the intriguing parallels between ancient Rome and today's political climate. Explore the moral dilemmas faced by figures like Cato, who stood against tyranny, contrasted with those who sought comfort in complicity. Discover why personal integrity matters now more than ever. The conversation encourages active engagement in politics, reminding listeners of the importance of informed voting. It's a timely reflection on the dangers of shifting blame and the vital role we play in shaping our governments.
Oct 20, 2020 • 2min
If You Want to Feel Better, Do This
Struggling with frustration and fear? Discover how shifting your focus from yourself to helping others can unlock true happiness. The podcast delves into the wisdom of Stoic philosophy, illustrating that acts of kindness not only benefit those around you but also bring inner peace. Historical insights, practical steps for well-being, and transformative reflections invite you to embrace a life of service. Tune in for a refreshing take on elevating your emotional state by prioritizing the well-being of others!
Oct 19, 2020 • 3min
It’s About Crossing One Thing Off After Another
Addiction can be a tricky foe, often leading to one bad habit being replaced by another. The discussion focuses on how to break these cycles using the principles of Stoic philosophy. Instead of just quitting, it’s about developing resilience and making small, mindful changes. Emphasizing the importance of persistence, listeners are encouraged to confront deeper issues like procrastination, anxiety, and temper as part of their journey to self-improvement.
Oct 18, 2020 • 1h 8min
Ryan Speaks with Kevin Rose at the Commonwealth Club
In a thought-provoking discussion, Kevin Rose, founder of Digg and a tech investor, joins Ryan Holiday to delve into his latest work, *Lives of the Stoics*. They explore the practical applications of Stoic teachings from ancient philosophers like Seneca and Marcus Aurelius. The conversation highlights the importance of gratitude and resilience during adversity, transformation of anger into empathy, and the intersections of Stoicism and Zen Buddhism. The duo emphasizes how these timeless lessons can enhance modern living.
Oct 17, 2020 • 52min
Ferkat Jawdat - Fighting Against Chinese Repression
Ferkat Jawdat, a passionate Uyghur activist, shines a light on the Chinese government's brutal repression of the Uyghur people in Xinjiang. He shares his heart-wrenching journey from personal loss to advocacy, emphasizing the urgent need for global awareness and action. Jawdat discusses the historical context of Uyghur oppression, the chilling realities of detention camps, and the moral responsibilities that nations like the U.S. have in confronting these injustices. His compelling narrative calls for empathy and collective responsibility to uplift marginalized voices.
Oct 16, 2020 • 3min
How Much White Space Do You Have?
Success doesn't equal busyness; embracing 'white space' in life is essential for true fulfillment. Drawing on the teachings of Marcus Aurelius and Seneca, the discussion emphasizes the value of quality over quantity in commitments. Reflection and stillness can lead to personal power and happiness. Being overloaded isn't a badge of honor, but rather a sign of overcommitment. It's time to rethink how we measure success and prioritize moments of peace.
Oct 15, 2020 • 3min
Always Be Humble and Kind
Exploring the profound lessons of Stoic philosophers, the discussion emphasizes the virtues of humility and kindness. It highlights how these principles can lead to a more fulfilling life, even in today's fast-paced world. Through the lens of popular culture, listeners are encouraged to embrace compassion in their daily interactions. Additionally, the podcast shares inspiring insights from a songwriter who created her own mantra, further illustrating the power of living by these core values.
Oct 14, 2020 • 2min
It All Depends on How You Look at It
Explore the intriguing contrast between Seneca and Napoleon's views on exile on Corsica. Discover how Seneca sees his time as suffering while Napoleon romanticizes his connection to his homeland. This discussion highlights the profound impact perspective has on shaping our experiences. Learn how a shift in viewpoint can transform challenging situations into opportunities for growth.
Oct 14, 2020 • 51min
MLB’s Eric Byrnes - How to Keep Going When Your Body Wants to Quit
In this intriguing discussion, Eric Byrnes, a former MLB star and endurance athlete, shares his insights on resilience and perseverance. He reflects on the mental toughness required for both sports and personal challenges, emphasizing the importance of pushing beyond limits. Byrnes also opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of professional baseball and the harsh realities athletes face. With a focus on genuine happiness, he highlights the value of meaningful experiences over material wealth, offering a fresh perspective on finding joy in life.
Oct 13, 2020 • 4min
Don’t Let Anger Make You Mean
Navigating the frustrations of life can be tough when reality doesn't meet expectations. The discussion centers on the common disappointments we face, from delayed flights to mishaps with deliveries. It emphasizes the importance of managing anger and refraining from taking it out on others. By adopting Stoic principles, listeners are encouraged to foster kindness and self-awareness, ultimately improving personal growth and relationships. It's a reminder that anger is natural, but how we handle it is what truly matters.
