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
Mar 23, 2020 • 3min
The World Is Trying To Teach You
Life can change in an instant, as the economy reminded us recently. Drawing inspiration from Seneca, the discussion emphasizes vigilance during prosperous times. Complacency can lead to shock when adversity strikes. Embracing life's unpredictability is crucial for preparation. The importance of heeding life's lessons, even amidst good fortune, is highlighted as a way to navigate future uncertainties.
Mar 22, 2020 • 9min
Daily Stoic Sundays: You Don’t Control What Happens, You Control How You Respond
Tune in to explore the essence of Stoic philosophy, focusing on what we can control versus what we cannot. Learn how to navigate challenges by responding wisely to the ongoing pandemic. Embrace courage, self-discipline, and justice as you apply Stoic principles to your daily life. Discover the importance of personal responsibility in shaping your reactions, and find constructive ways to contribute to community safety. This insightful discussion offers tools for resilience and wisdom during uncertain times.
Mar 21, 2020 • 26min
Ask Daily Stoic: Keeping Calm About Coronavirus
Explore the parallels between the Antonine Plague and today’s health crisis, highlighting resilience and community support. Discover how embracing adversity can lead to joy, drawing inspiration from Thomas Edison’s story. Learn to view obligations as opportunities for personal growth and happiness, showcasing the power of acceptance. Dive into the importance of self-discipline during tough times, with practical advice on managing fear and prioritizing communal safety while helping others.
Mar 20, 2020 • 3min
You Should Always Find Something to Learn
Embrace the wisdom of Stoic philosophy by staying open to learning from others. Recognize that different perspectives can offer invaluable insights and shortcuts. Cato the Elder and Epictetus remind us that assuming we know it all is a path to folly. Personal growth comes from appreciating diverse experiences, even when we think we’re right. Every interaction has the potential to teach us something new, so keep your mind flexible and avoid the trap of condescension.
Mar 19, 2020 • 3min
This Is One Thing You Must Not Do
Explore how Stoics like Marcus Aurelius mastered emotional control and suggested that not having an opinion can be empowering. Discover their approach to handling rudeness and cruelty without succumbing to anger. Learn how they reframed offensive remarks and saw the greater character of the critic. The discussion emphasizes the importance of composure and choosing not to escalate negativity, ultimately urging you to control your emotions and focus on your essential tasks.
Mar 18, 2020 • 12min
When the System Breaks Down, Leaders Stand Up
The podcast delves into the art of leadership during crises, emphasizing how effective leaders respond with clarity and decisiveness. It draws connections between the ancient Antonine Plague and modern challenges, highlighting Marcus Aurelius's compassionate leadership. Listeners explore Stoic insights on mortality and civilization's fragility. Themes of humility, kindness, and the importance of making meaningful choices in difficult times resonate throughout, offering timeless wisdom for navigating uncertainty.
Mar 17, 2020 • 4min
Your Obstacles Are Trying To Teach You Something
Life presents numerous obstacles, but what if they’re actually opportunities in disguise? The discussion emphasizes embracing adversity to foster personal growth. Historical figures illustrate how resilience can transform challenges into valuable lessons. Not avoiding hardship, but welcoming it—this is the essence of a fulfilling life. Every uncomfortable situation holds a chance for discovery, transforming despair into a moment of triumph. Obstacles can indeed teach us, making life’s difficulties part of our journey.
Mar 16, 2020 • 4min
We Need You To Be Bold
Reflecting on the Ides of March, the discussion reveals how Julius Caesar's ambition led to his dramatic downfall and the subsequent chaos in Rome. It questions whether individuals can truly alter the course of history. The conversation shifts to modern times, emphasizing the need for courage amid societal passivity. Listeners are encouraged to embrace boldness and draw inspiration from historical figures. Stoic philosophy plays a key role, urging everyone to confront challenges with resilience and determination.
Mar 15, 2020 • 9min
Daily Stoic Sundays: Four Strategies for Reading Better
Discover the power of rereading classic literature and how it deepens your understanding as you grow. Explore strategies to engage more profoundly with your reading, transforming each book into a conversation rather than just a one-time experience. Learn about the importance of active rereading and personal integration of knowledge to enhance your literary journey. Plus, find exciting offers on a reading course and an ebook that dives into Stoic wisdom.
Mar 14, 2020 • 27min
Ask Daily Stoic: Austin Kleon
Austin Kleon, the author behind "Steal Like an Artist," joins the discussion to share wisdom on creativity and self-discovery. He humorously recounts a road rage incident, illustrating how patience can transform our responses to anger. The conversation digs into the pitfalls of self-deception and the challenges of hiring in small businesses, promoting journaling as a remedy. Kleon also discusses balancing parenting with literature, emphasizing the importance of nurturing creativity in both children and adults.
