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
Feb 10, 2020 • 3min
It Takes What It Takes
Discover the secrets behind greatness as the discussion reveals how dedication and hard work shape success. From inspiring stories of historical figures to insights from sports legends like Vince Carter, the emphasis is on setting clear goals and committing to the necessary habits. Learn the straightforward truth that achieving your dreams is about doing what it takes, no matter the challenge. This engaging dialogue underscores the timeless wisdom of Stoic philosophers in the pursuit of personal excellence.
Feb 8, 2020 • 15min
Ask Daily Stoic: Can You Be Informed Without Cable News?
Ryan shares insights from James Stockdale's resilience as a POW and the strength of a stoic mindset. He discusses the challenges of staying informed without traditional news, advocating for literature and history as deeper sources of knowledge. The podcast emphasizes reading influential texts to better understand human behavior and ethical responses to bullying. It highlights Stoic principles encouraging defense of the vulnerable, inviting listeners to engage and submit questions for future discussions.
Feb 7, 2020 • 3min
You Still Have Time. You Have So Much Time.
Dive into the life of Seneca, who faced immense challenges like tuberculosis and exile yet emerged as a powerful philosopher and politician. His journey reminds us that it’s never too late to chase our dreams, no matter the setbacks. Embrace change and resilience, as the idea that you still have time to remake your life resonates throughout. This discussion encourages listeners to overcome feelings of being too late or having bad luck—there's always room to grow and achieve.
Feb 6, 2020 • 4min
You Must Look Beneath The Surface
Explore the captivating interplay between anger and vulnerability as rooted in Stoic philosophy. Discover Seneca’s insights on how actors channel emotions like anger, revealing the deeper feelings beneath the surface. Learn how acknowledging rather than suppressing these emotions can lead to personal growth. The podcast blends historical perspectives with modern healing practices, offering a roadmap for understanding and managing anger in our lives.
Feb 5, 2020 • 4min
If Everyone Is Woke, Then No One is Awake
The discussion delves into the vital emergence of social justice awareness. It highlights how Stoic principles like kindness and fairness align with this movement. The conversation also warns about the dangers of radicalization and self-righteousness within activist circles. Examples illustrate the unintended consequences of well-meaning actions, such as the backlash against a bakery and the effects of the #MeToo movement. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking exploration of empathy in activism and the balance between justice and due process.
Feb 4, 2020 • 3min
It’s Better To Share
The podcast delves into the intriguing world of Roman emperors and the ruthless quest for power. It contrasts their often violent actions with the extraordinary decision of Marcus Aurelius to share his authority with his stepbrother, Lucius Verus. This rare partnership highlights the strength found in collaboration and the notion that sharing responsibilities can lead to better outcomes. Listeners are encouraged to reconsider their own views on power, realizing that someone else's success can indeed enhance their own lives.
Feb 3, 2020 • 2min
You Must Win The Morning!
Explore the timeless struggle of rising early as depicted by Marcus Aurelius. Discover how he transformed the challenge of getting out of bed into a philosophy for success. Winning the morning is framed as essential for conquering the day ahead. Emphasis is placed on establishing effective routines, nurturing good habits, and tackling important tasks without delay. By embracing discomfort, we unlock the potential for personal and professional triumph.
Feb 1, 2020 • 17min
Ask Daily Stoic: How Do I Deal With Long Term Problems?
Discover the journey of completing a manuscript on Stoic philosophers and the value of constructive criticism. Explore how emotional control can transform challenges into opportunities for growth, enriched by Marcus Aurelius' wisdom. Delve into the philosophical intersections between Stoicism and Christianity, highlighting practical strategies for resilience. Learn how adjusting your perspective on long-term problems can spark significant personal development, and gain insights into managing anger effectively.
Jan 31, 2020 • 3min
Shine On, You Crazy Diamond
The Stoics have always embraced their quirks and individuality. Zeno’s unconventional begging and Cleanthes’ laborer facade highlight their refusal to conform. Cato walked barefoot in ragged clothes, while Seneca practiced poverty despite his wealth. Marcus Aurelius wrote philosophy as the gladiatorial games raged below him. The teachings of Epictetus stress the importance of seeming strange in pursuit of wisdom. The daring example of Agrippinus showcases the value of independent thinking over societal norms.
Jan 30, 2020 • 4min
If You Don’t Read, You’re Functionally Illiterate
General James Mattis emphasizes the vital role of reading and historical knowledge in effective leadership. Drawing parallels with Stoic warriors, he argues that failing to learn from the past can lead to ethical failures and dire consequences. Mattis stresses that true education isn't just a luxury; it's a necessity for making informed decisions. Ignoring this responsibility, whether in warfare or business, is not only foolish but could also be harmful to others. Listening to seasoned voices and learning from history is portrayed as a moral obligation.
