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
Jul 26, 2020 • 12min
Daily Stoic Sundays: How Seneca Overcame Stress
Discover how Seneca, the ancient Stoic philosopher, tackled stress in his tumultuous life. Learn about his strategies for confronting fears and maintaining perspective to find emotional control. Explore wisdom from fellow Stoics like Marcus Aurelius and Epictetus, and get inspired to embark on a 14-day challenge to apply these techniques in your life. Dive into how ancient advice can help manage modern-day stressors.
Jul 25, 2020 • 1h 15min
Ryan and Comic Pete Holmes Talk Work-Life Balance and Why Joy Matters
Join comedian and writer Pete Holmes, known for HBO's "Crashing" and his podcast "You Made It Weird," as he chats with Ryan about achieving work-life balance amid chaos. They delve into the importance of personal fulfillment and navigating complex family dynamics. Holmes shares his journey with therapy, the pressure for societal success, and the deeper motivations behind seeking validation. Together, they explore how genuine connections and embracing joy can lead to a more fulfilling life, even against the backdrop of financial anxiety and childhood influences.
Jul 24, 2020 • 3min
Now’s the Time to Sharpen Your Sword
Preparation is vital, as catching up later is often too late. It’s crucial to sharpen your skills during peaceful times rather than waiting for a crisis. Historical and philosophical insights are shared on self-discipline, emphasizing that now is the right time to develop inner strength. The discussion encourages proactive learning and saving, reminding us that idle times should be used for growth and resilience against future challenges.
Jul 23, 2020 • 2min
You Decide the End of This Story
Dive into the story of Admiral James Stockdale and his inspiring resilience in the face of adversity. Discover how he maintained unwavering faith during the toughest moments of his life. The discussion highlights the profound power of perspective and the ability to turn hardships into defining experiences. Learn how acknowledging reality while fostering belief can shape your own narrative. Embrace the idea that you have the power to decide the ending of your own story.
Jul 22, 2020 • 43min
Ask Daily Stoic: Ryan and James Romm Talk Seneca, Nero and Dying Every Day
Ryan talks with James Romm, a professor of Classics at Bard College and author known for his works on Seneca. They delve into Seneca's multifaceted legacy, exploring his role at Nero's court and the moral dilemmas he faced. The discussion highlights the tension between Seneca's ambitions and Stoic beliefs, drawing parallels to modern political leaders. Romm offers insights on mortality and timeless wisdom from Seneca, underscoring how his philosophies remain relevant in navigating contemporary life challenges.
Jul 22, 2020 • 3min
What Else Can You Do?
Discover the rollercoaster of emotions people faced during tough times, from initial eagerness to a slump in motivation. Explore how Stoic philosophy can turn challenges into opportunities for growth. Join a 14-day self-improvement challenge that encourages resilience and perseverance. Tune in for insights on maintaining a positive mindset, even amid uncertainty.
Jul 21, 2020 • 3min
This Is Why You Can’t Care What People Think
In this thought-provoking discussion, the importance of authenticity takes center stage. The speaker highlights Cato's practice of defying conventions, illustrating the courage necessary to prioritize personal choices. Connecting this to modern times, the conversation emphasizes that societal judgments shouldn't dictate our actions, especially during the pandemic. The focus shifts from appearances, like wearing a mask, to the value of inner strength and self-acceptance. Embracing our true selves, regardless of outside opinions, becomes the ultimate act of defiance.
Jul 20, 2020 • 2min
The Good News About Wisdom
Wisdom may not come easily, but it's more accessible than ever before. The importance of commitment in the pursuit of knowledge is highlighted, along with the myriad resources available for learning. There's a focus on building habits to better engage with these teachings. Historical insights into how wisdom has been recorded enrich the conversation, emphasizing that dedication is even more crucial when knowledge is at our fingertips.
5 snips
Jul 19, 2020 • 13min
Daily Stoic Sundays: If You’re Not Seeking Out Challenges, How Are You Going to Get Better?
The discussion centers on the necessity of seeking new challenges to foster personal and professional growth. Drawing from personal experiences in writing a controversial book, the host likens overcoming resistance to weightlifting for the mind. Listeners are encouraged to embrace discomfort as a means of building resilience and character. Ancient Stoic wisdom supports the idea that challenges are opportunities for self-discovery. The episode wraps up with insights on a movie adaptation and a call for listener engagement.
Jul 18, 2020 • 36min
Ask Daily Stoic: Ryan and Dr. Harvey Karp Talk Preparation, Patience, and How to Be a Great Parent
Ryan chats with Dr. Harvey Karp, a pediatrician and inventor of the SNOO Sleep System, recognized for his innovative sleep methods for infants. They discuss the importance of preparation for parenthood and emphasize the need for humility in seeking parenting advice. The conversation highlights the emotional complexities of raising toddlers, advocating for a balance of patience and empathy. Dr. Karp shares insights on navigating toddlerhood and the significance of understanding children's emotions while juggling personal ambitions.
