

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 1, 2020 • 4min
From The Past, We Are Able To Tell The Future
Imagine losing modern knowledge, yet still thriving on the wisdom of ancient philosophers like Marcus Aurelius and Seneca. This discussion highlights how timeless truths can illuminate our understanding of the present and guide our future. Drawing on historical insights, the conversation emphasizes the importance of learning from the past rather than getting lost in contemporary distractions. As history can teach us invaluable lessons, embracing the knowledge of wise minds can better prepare us for the challenges ahead.

Mar 31, 2020 • 4min
How a Few Can Help The Many
Dive into the legendary tale of the 300 Spartans, who stood valiantly against overwhelming odds to protect their homeland. Explore the themes of sacrifice and selflessness that resonate through history, illustrating how the courage of a few can safeguard the many. The discussion draws poignant parallels between ancient bravery and contemporary challenges, urging listeners to embody Stoic virtues like wisdom and justice for the greater good.

Mar 30, 2020 • 3min
These Are The Three Most Important Words of Wisdom
The podcast delves into timeless wisdom from the Beatles and Marcus Aurelius about the art of letting go. It emphasizes the power of choosing not to be bothered by things outside our control. Marcus’s humorous reflections on everyday annoyances remind us to confront issues directly or simply let them be. Listeners are invited to join a 14-day challenge to foster growth and find peace in acceptance. It's a thought-provoking exploration of how to maintain tranquility amid life's frustrations!

Mar 29, 2020 • 9min
Daily Stoic Sundays: Should I Watch The News
The discussion tackles the impact of news consumption on personal productivity and focus. It advocates for prioritizing self-improvement and creativity over constant news engagement. The hosts explore the balance between staying informed and civic participation, challenging common beliefs about news and democracy. They emphasize the value of historical context and suggest classic literature for deeper insights. Meanwhile, the conversation highlights the dangers of misinformation and the importance of discerning fact from spin in today's media landscape.

Mar 28, 2020 • 4min
Alive Time or Dead Time. What Will It Be?
Feeling stuck? It's a universal experience, whether due to age, military service, or unexpected circumstances like a pandemic. The discussion emphasizes the importance of making the most of your time, highlighting the difference between 'alive time' and 'dead time.' Inspiring examples from history show how great minds like Isaac Newton and Shakespeare turned their confinement into creativity, reminding us that obstacles can be stepping stones to growth and opportunity if we choose how to react.

Mar 28, 2020 • 19min
Ask Daily Stoic - How Do I Use Stoicism To Fend Off Negativity?
Dive into the transformative power of Stoicism as practical tools are shared to tackle daily negativity. A personal story highlights the emotional journey of relocating a library, emphasizing the value of books for growth. Learn from the inspiring resilience of a baseball player navigating challenges. Discover how focusing on what we can control can help us manage emotions better, along with strategies for cultivating resilience and fostering a positive mindset through Stoic principles.

Mar 27, 2020 • 3min
When Things Are Tough, Remember This
Life can feel like a constant downpour of challenges, as inspired by sayings across cultures. The Stoics teach us to brace for adversity through mental preparedness, recognizing that troubles often come in clusters. While we can’t control the rain, we can choose our response and how we navigate the storm. Emphasizing proactive measures, the podcast encourages listeners to build their metaphorical roofs before the rain hits. With wisdom from Epictetus and a humorous nod to astronaut Chris Hadfield, it reminds us that our reactions define our resilience.

Mar 26, 2020 • 3min
No One Escapes This Law
Explore the timeless Stoic adage, 'Character is fate,' and how it shapes our destinies. The discussion reveals how bad character inevitably leads to self-destruction, while honesty fosters trust and collaboration. Learn why corrupt leaders fail and how egotism blinds individuals to essential truths. The conversation links historical examples to modern-day issues across various sectors, advocating for integrity as a foundational principle for genuine success.

Mar 25, 2020 • 5min
We All Have Flaws… What Matters is What We Do With Them
Jeannie Gaffigan shares her journey as a control freak who faced a life-altering health crisis. After a brain tumor diagnosis and complex surgeries, she learned to shift her perspective on life's little annoyances. Embracing imperfection, she highlights how acknowledging flaws can lead to growth. Her story emphasizes self-awareness and the Stoic philosophy of managing impulses, proving that embracing vulnerabilities can strengthen our resilience and enrich our lives.

Mar 24, 2020 • 5min
You Can Seize This Moment
During a time when many are isolated, there's a focus on transforming challenges into opportunities for growth. A 14-day challenge encourages listeners to engage in personal development and community service. HR management tips for small businesses highlight the importance of effective strategies amid uncertainty. The discussion also introduces supportive resources and tools, aiming to enhance resilience and productivity during difficult times.


