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
Aug 12, 2020 • 47min
Ask Daily Stoic: Ryan and Author Rich Cohen On How to Succeed When Everyone’s Against You
Rich Cohen, a best-selling author and editor known for his diverse subjects ranging from Jewish gangsters to the Rolling Stones, shares intriguing insights on navigating success amid adversity. He discusses the changing perceptions of historical figures and the complexities of heroism. The conversation dives into the intersection of Stoicism and religion, emphasizing resilience, and explores the creative process in writing, likening it to a boxing match. Cohen highlights the importance of embracing failures on the path to success, underscoring perseverance as a key to achievement.
Aug 12, 2020 • 3min
This Is Not a Drill
The hosts dive into the misconception of our seemingly easy lives over the past few decades. They discuss how recent global crises have shattered this illusion and pushed us to confront harsh realities. Emphasizing the importance of Stoic virtues like courage and wisdom, they explore how to effectively navigate adversity in challenging times. It’s a call to wake up and face the complexities of the present, pushing for a deeper understanding of resilience.
Aug 11, 2020 • 3min
This Is How It Will Feel
Exploring the lives of iconic Stoics, the discussion dives into their ambitions and the expectations they faced. It highlights the anticlimactic nature of achievement, showing that external accolades often fail to bring true fulfillment. Personal insights blend with historical lessons, emphasizing the importance of finding peace beyond worldly success. Reflecting on the struggles of notable figures like Zeno and Seneca, the conversation reveals profound truths about the pursuit of desire and the essence of happiness.
Aug 10, 2020 • 4min
You Must Run War Games
Dive into the ancient wisdom of Stoic philosophy, focusing on the critical exercise of 'premeditatio malorum.' Discover how this practice helps us prepare for unexpected disasters, from wars to pandemics. The discussion highlights real-world examples from organizations like HEB and AT&T, showcasing proactive strategies that help navigate crises. Learn how preparing for challenges can empower you to face life's unpredictabilities with resilience!
Aug 9, 2020 • 12min
Daily Stoic Sundays: The Daily Stoic, August 9
Discover the charm of a family RV trip during a pandemic, highlighting joy in simple moments. Dive into Stoic wisdom with Marcus Aurelius on managing emotions and anxiety. Explore the balance of superficiality and deep thought, illustrated with a flight delay metaphor. Also, check out a premium leather cover edition and learn about Muhammad Ali's principled stance during the Vietnam War. Engage with philosophy that resonates with everyday life challenges!
Aug 8, 2020 • 40min
Ask Daily Stoic: Ryan and Writer S.C. Gwynne Discuss the Great Stories and Leaders of the American Civil War
Join Ryan as he chats with S.C. Gwynne, a bestselling author known for captivating narratives on the American Civil War. They delve into the harsh realities of the war's final year, highlighting the shift from Union restoration to Black liberation. The duo compares iconic leaders like Lincoln and Grant, discussing their complex legacies. They also tackle the contentious issue of Civil War monuments and explore the metaphor of crossing a river as a reflection on mortality and peace, revealing the deep emotional weight behind these historical themes.
Aug 7, 2020 • 3min
You Should Understand This by Now
Human behavior often reveals its flaws during challenging times. Ignorance, fear, and pain can drive people to act irrationally. The discussion emphasizes the importance of responding with calmness and maintaining personal values even when faced with hostility. Historical philosophies are brought into the mix to remind us of the power of understanding and compassion in moments of crisis.
Aug 6, 2020 • 3min
There’s Always Been a Darkness on the Edge of Town
The discussion highlights the enduring presence of societal challenges, such as political instability and economic downturns. It emphasizes that struggles like poverty and pain are not new; they merely shift over time. The need for compassion and interconnectedness is stressed as essential for collective healing. By recognizing these ongoing issues, we can better understand and navigate the darkness that has always been part of the human experience.
Aug 5, 2020 • 3min
Will You Be Proud of This?
Dive into the profound thoughts of Marcus Aurelius, who valued integrity over fame. The discussion highlights how true legacies are crafted through our actions in pivotal moments. It emphasizes responding to challenges with honor, rather than chasing posthumous recognition. Reflect on how your own choices define your character and influence your legacy in today’s world.
Aug 5, 2020 • 47min
Ask Daily Stoic: Ryan and Sportswriter Kate Fagan Talk About Stoicism in Sports
In this engaging discussion, sportswriter Kate Fagan shares her insights on the intertwining issues of physical and mental health in sports. A former college basketball player and author of the bestselling 'What Made Maddy Run,' she emphasizes the often overlooked mental struggles athletes face. The conversation highlights societal pressures on young athletes and the need for a culture shift in college sports. Fagan also discusses the barriers to therapy and the importance of authenticity in sports media, making a compelling case for prioritizing mental wellness.
