

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

Jun 30, 2020 • 2min
It’s Not Over Until It’s Over
The discussion revolves around the importance of perseverance during ongoing challenges, particularly in the wake of COVID-19. It highlights the courage and wisdom demonstrated globally in overcoming adversity. Historical struggles, like those faced during the Spanish flu, are referenced to emphasize resilience. The speaker reminds us not to let our guard down too soon and reflects on the Stoic belief that fortune can be deceptive. This insight underlines the need for continuous effort as we navigate life's unpredictable challenges.

Jun 29, 2020 • 3min
You Need to Have a Vision
Discover the transformative power of having a clear vision to conquer life's challenges. Explore how historical figures like Arnold Schwarzenegger and Marcus Aurelius used their visions to achieve greatness. This insightful discussion encourages listeners, especially graduates, to define their own paths and navigate the inevitable obstacles ahead. It's a motivational reminder that a strong vision can guide you through adversity!

Jun 28, 2020 • 9min
Daily Stoic Sundays: How to Feel Like You Have Enough
Ryan dives into the Stoic wisdom on finding satisfaction in life regardless of external achievements. He argues that true happiness comes from within, not from material success. Notable examples, like Tiger Woods, illustrate the need for inner peace amidst external pressures. The discussion also highlights the impact of parental influence on mindset, urging self-reflection to break free from inherited unhealthy habits. Ultimately, it’s a journey toward personal growth and contentment.

12 snips
Jun 27, 2020 • 41min
Ask Daily Stoic: Ryan and Jessica Lahey Talk Parenting, the Process of Writing, and How to Fail Gracefully
Jessica Lahey, a New York Times bestselling author and experienced educator, delves into the art of parenting in this engaging discussion. She emphasizes the importance of allowing children to experience failure as a crucial part of their growth. The conversation also navigates the delicate balance between protecting children and letting them face challenges independently. Lahey shares insights on writing impactful books and practical parenting, drawing from her experiences in education and writing, including her forthcoming work on substance abuse prevention.

Jun 26, 2020 • 7min
They Still Hide Money In Books
A young boy learns a profound lesson about knowledge and ignorance from his grandmother. She shares an impactful story about how slave masters hid their money in books, knowing that the oppressed wouldn’t open them. This sparks a discussion on the moral duty of reading and the importance of literacy as a means to overcome oppression. Personal anecdotes highlight the transformative power of literature, urging everyone to appreciate and engage with books that can reshape perspectives.

Jun 25, 2020 • 3min
It Keeps Coming and Won’t Stop Coming
An isolated retreat turns into a survival challenge as Brent Underwood finds himself snowed in a ghost town during the pandemic. With dwindling supplies and no running water, he faces unexpected hardships that test his resilience. A sudden health crisis forces him to make a daunting two-hour drive to the nearest clinic. This gripping tale reveals the unpredictability of life and the strength found in adversity.

Jun 24, 2020 • 3min
Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop, Should Stop
Delve into the perplexing ending of Homer's Odyssey, where Odysseus does the unexpected after finally returning home. Explore the tension between relentless pursuit and the need for contentment. Learn how our endless desires can blind us to the joys of the present moment. Discover insights on how to embrace stillness in a chaotic world. This episode encourages reflection on what truly matters after achieving our long-sought goals.

Jun 24, 2020 • 29min
Ask Daily Stoic: Ryan and Lauryn and Michael Bosstick (The Skinny Confidential) Talk Stoic Morning Routines and How to Manage Your Life in Quarantine
Lauryn and Michael Bosstick, co-founders of The Skinny Confidential, share their journey of using Stoicism to succeed in the lifestyle and wellness industry. They discuss the importance of creating intentional morning routines to enhance mental clarity, especially during quarantine. The Bossticks highlight how they navigate productivity challenges in a virtual world while setting boundaries to prioritize essential tasks. Their insights blend personal anecdotes with Stoic principles, offering practical advice for anyone looking to thrive in uncertain times.

Jun 23, 2020 • 3min
This Is Your Fight
Indifference is a silent killer in our society, and it's time to confront that reality. Personal responsibility is crucial in combating injustice; ignoring problems only makes them worse. The conversation urges listeners to engage and participate in activism, reminding us that everyone has a role to play in fostering change. You'll be inspired to take action, realizing that this fight for justice truly belongs to all of us.

Jun 22, 2020 • 3min
Life is Overwhelming. Or Is It?
Life can feel overwhelmingly chaotic, with recent events echoing this sentiment. The discussion highlights how significant historical figures, like Seneca and Marcus Aurelius, approached such turmoil. Emphasis is placed on cultivating resilience through a Stoic mindset. Listeners are encouraged to confront life's challenges with a new perspective, questioning whether it's truly overwhelming or just part of the human experience. The conversation offers tools to navigate through the chaos.


