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
May 8, 2020 • 3min
Can You Help Others First?
In challenging times like a pandemic, Stoicism encourages us to resist the urge to focus solely on ourselves. Instead, it calls for heroic selflessness and prioritizing the well-being of others. Listeners are inspired to act with courage, self-discipline, justice, and wisdom. Performing acts of kindness becomes not just an option but a moral imperative. Embracing these values can lead to a more compassionate and connected community.
May 7, 2020 • 3min
There Is Only One Person to Listen To
Explore the struggle of balancing public opinion with personal integrity as illustrated by Marcus Aurelius. Discover how he viewed praise and criticism as mere noise, urging listeners to focus on self-acceptance instead. A notable musician’s journey emphasizes the importance of tuning into your inner voice for true self-improvement. This thought-provoking discussion challenges you to find peace by dismissing external validation and embracing your own path.
May 6, 2020 • 54min
Ask Daily Stoic: Ryan and Robert Greene Talk Plagues, Politics, and Polarization
In a thought-provoking discussion, Robert Greene, renowned author of The 48 Laws of Power, shares his insights with Ryan about the connections between historical pandemics and today's challenges. They explore leadership lessons from figures like Pericles, emphasizing rational decision-making during crises. Greene delves into the personal and political effects of polarization, advocating for self-reflection as a way to combat emotional biases. Their conversation also touches on the need for accessible therapy and innovative strategies to engage younger voters.
May 6, 2020 • 3min
Now Is The Time For Structure
Explore how embracing structure can transform chaotic times into opportunities for growth. The discussion highlights the importance of routine and discipline, drawing wisdom from Stoic philosophers like Marcus Aurelius and Seneca. Learn practical ways to cultivate resilience and navigate life's challenges effectively. It's a call to harness Stoic practices to create a sense of stability in an unpredictable world.
May 5, 2020 • 3min
It’s Important to Have Reminders
The podcast delves into the historical debate among Stoic philosophers regarding the use of reminders. Some believed they undermined true wisdom, while others saw their value. The discussion highlights the modern parallels with how sports teams use motivational phrases to boost focus and discipline. Ultimately, it champions reminders as effective tools for personal growth and staying on the right path.
May 4, 2020 • 2min
Yours Is Not to Reason Why
Dive into the world of Stoic philosophy, where embracing uncertainty is key to personal growth. Discover how focusing on your own actions can help you navigate life’s complexities without getting distracted by others. Delve into the wisdom of Marcus Aurelius and learn the importance of personal responsibility in shaping your responses. This episode challenges you to prioritize what matters most and to cultivate resilience amid chaos.
May 3, 2020 • 8min
Daily Stoic Sundays: All You Need Are a Few Small Wins Every Day
Success is rarely achieved in a single leap; it unfolds daily with small wins. Everyday habits can compound into significant accomplishments, as impressive outcomes often mask the labor behind them. By focusing on incremental improvements, listeners can cultivate their character and achieve long-term goals. The insights extend into practical advice for small business owners, emphasizing the importance of streamlined HR processes to free up time for growth. Embrace the journey of daily success, one small step at a time!
May 2, 2020 • 43min
Ask Daily Stoic: Ryan and NBA Legend Pau Gasol Talk Books, Basketball, and Stoicism
Pau Gasol, a two-time NBA champion and renowned advocate for female coaches, joins Ryan for a thought-provoking conversation. They dive into Pau’s extensive reading habits, influenced by Phil Jackson, and how fiction shapes his perspective. The duo explores the vital role of Stoicism in overcoming adversity and the power of quotes in sports. Pau passionately discusses the importance of female coaches in basketball, linking it to broader themes of discrimination and resilience, making for an inspiring dialogue around personal growth and equality.
May 1, 2020 • 5min
You Do the Math
Listeners are confronted with the stark reality that countless people live obliviously close to death due to statistics. The discussion emphasizes the urgency of life and the importance of staying vigilant, particularly in the face of ongoing health crises. It encourages embracing mortality as a catalyst for meaningful living. The Daily Stoic Habits Challenge is introduced as a way to cultivate positive habits while acknowledging life’s transience, urging everyone to make the most out of each moment.
Apr 30, 2020 • 2min
In the End, It’s Nothing
Explore the fleeting nature of fame and power through Marcus Aurelius' insights. Discover how external accolades pale in comparison to the value of character and virtuous actions. The discussion emphasizes the importance of nurturing inner worth, reminding listeners that true accomplishment comes from within, not from the adulation of crowds.
