

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

Apr 29, 2020 • 3min
You Will Not Be Made Whole
Life doesn't always reward effort and good behavior. The discussion tackles the harsh realities of facing misfortune, emphasizing resilience and acceptance. Insights from Stoic philosophy encourage listeners to find strength in adversity and redefine their expectations. A unique challenge is introduced to inspire personal growth and a proactive approach to life's difficulties. Embracing loss as an inevitable part of existence can ultimately lead to deeper fulfillment and purpose.

Apr 28, 2020 • 3min
This Is a Critical Strength to Cultivate
Discover how to navigate the challenges that arise when pursuing your unique path in life. The discussion emphasizes the importance of remaining calm and collected in the face of adversity. Stoic wisdom is shared, focusing on forgiveness and personal growth as essential strategies for overcoming negativity. Learn how to deal with doubt, bad advice, and obstacles, both intentional and unintentional, that can derail your journey.

Apr 27, 2020 • 4min
You Have to Care About the Most Vulnerable
In a thought-provoking discussion, the importance of protecting vulnerable populations during public health crises is highlighted. The conversation dives into ethical responsibilities and collective duty, drawing inspiration from Stoic philosophy. Historical examples reinforce why caring for others is not just a choice but a moral obligation. The dialogue also touches on the societal implications of ignoring these responsibilities, making it clear that our actions affect everyone around us.

Apr 26, 2020 • 46min
Daily Stoic Sundays: What Marcus Aurelius Can Teach Frontline Responders During COVID-19
Frontline responders during COVID-19 face unprecedented challenges, and Stoic philosophy offers valuable lessons for resilience. The discussion highlights Marcus Aurelius's leadership during the Antonine Plague, emphasizing collective well-being. Listeners explore how character impacts leadership outcomes and the importance of integrity during crises. Embracing mindfulness and daily routines can enhance mental resilience, while gratitude for responders' efforts is encouraged. The conversation emphasizes practical methods to integrate Stoicism into everyday life for personal and community growth.

Apr 25, 2020 • 60min
Ask Daily Stoic: Ryan Talks Social Media, Social Distancing, and Stoicism with Congressman Mike Gallagher
Ryan speaks with Congressman Mike Gallagher, a prominent figure in global affairs and a representative from Wisconsin. They dive into how to avoid distractions from social media and explore Stoic wisdom in the context of challenges like pandemics. Gallagher discusses maintaining mental composure in politics, the importance of self-reflection, and the struggles of navigating truth in today’s misinformation landscape. This engaging conversation highlights how Stoicism can guide us through modern crises while fostering personal growth.

Apr 24, 2020 • 4min
This Is a Game of Inches
The tale of Zeno, a philosopher who rebuilt his life after losing everything in a shipwreck, is both inspiring and thought-provoking. His journey from anonymity to wisdom teaches us about resilience and incremental progress. The discussion includes modern parallels, like NFL linebacker Ryan Shazier's comeback story. Listeners are encouraged to adopt the Daily Stoic Habits Challenge to cultivate their own habits for success. This blend of historical insights and practical advice makes for a compelling exploration of personal growth.

Apr 23, 2020 • 2min
We All Fall Short
A surprising moment unfolds as Pope Francis, a symbol of kindness, reacts in frustration, reminding us all of human imperfection. Even the greatest figures in philosophy and faith have their flaws and failings. The discussion encourages acceptance of our own mistakes and those of others, emphasizing compassion as a vital response. Learning from missteps becomes a pathway to growth, urging us to embrace our shared humanity. After all, we all fall short sometimes, and it’s okay to offer and accept apologies.

Apr 22, 2020 • 3min
Rage, Rage Against the Dying of the Light
Explore the remarkable life of Cato the Younger, a symbol of defiance who chose death over tyranny. His inspiring resistance to Julius Caesar demonstrates a fierce commitment to principles. The discussion draws parallels to Dylan Thomas's poignant poem about confronting mortality. Tune in to discover how his legacy encourages us to live bravely and authentically in the face of adversity.

Apr 22, 2020 • 38min
Ryan Interviews Brent Underwood, Ghost Town Proprietor
Brent Underwood, a marketing partner and owner of the ghost town Cerro Gordo, shares his unique experiences living in a remote, historical setting. He discusses the challenges and resilience required to thrive in extreme conditions. The conversation touches on the significance of stillness, confronting fears, and the power of presence in modern life. They also reflect on the legacy of the town, exploring the fascinating history of its mining past and urging support for its preservation. A captivating mix of personal growth and history awaits!

Apr 21, 2020 • 4min
We Are What We Repeatedly Do
Explore the concept of arete, the Greek pursuit of human excellence across moral, physical, and spiritual realms. Discover how habits shape our journey toward greatness, as success is rooted in consistent practice. Learn about innovative tools for personal budgeting and HR that streamline life management. Join the Daily Stoic Habits Challenge to make transformative daily changes, fostering both personal and professional growth on your path to excellence.


