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
Jan 29, 2020 • 2min
How You Look At Things Matters
Perspective is everything, especially in challenging times. The podcast highlights how a shift in viewpoint can transform chaos into beauty, like seeing a traffic jam as a stunning light display. It contrasts alarming news with the broader scope of history, encouraging listeners to adopt a Stoic mindset. Embrace obstacles as opportunities and choose your focus wisely. As Epictetus noted, each situation offers two handles; find the one that empowers you. Life's hues are painted by our thoughts—what color will you choose today?
Jan 28, 2020 • 3min
You Have To Be Kind To Yourself
Discover the delicate balance between kindness and Stoic discipline. Self-improvement isn't about self-punishment; it thrives on compassion. Historical Stoics remind us to befriend ourselves, acknowledging that growth comes from a positive inner dialogue. Explore how being hard on yourself can hinder trust and wisdom. Ultimately, true progress blossoms from a foundation of self-love.
Jan 27, 2020 • 2min
Stop Freaking Out. None of This Is New.
In a world rife with crises, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Yet, history shows us that these challenges are not new; they've occurred throughout time. The podcast delves into how figures like Marcus Aurelius and Seneca faced similar issues, reminding us to gain perspective. By zooming out, we can see that many worries are unfounded and often distract us from addressing deeper problems. The Stoics encourage us to focus on what truly matters, reminding us that life is too short to waste on unnecessary anxiety.
Jan 25, 2020 • 9min
Ask Daily Stoic: How can I get my partner interested in Stoicism?
Discover how to inspire your partner to explore Stoicism without being forceful. Learn the art of leading by example while nurturing your relationships. Embrace the beauty of growth that stems from adversity, illustrated by personal anecdotes like a transformative bicycle accident. Explore relatable strategies to introduce Stoic principles tailored to your partner's personality, ensuring that the timeless teachings resonate on a personal level. Uncover the power of introspection and positivity in overcoming challenges together.
Jan 24, 2020 • 3min
You Must Think The Thing You Cannot Think
Explore the profound insights on parenting and the unthinkable fear of loss. The discussion reveals how acknowledging the fragility of life can transform your approach to parenthood. Ancient philosophers like Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius emphasize cherishing every moment with your children. By facing the harsh realities of existence, parents are inspired to live mindfully and embrace gratitude. This thought-provoking reflection urges listeners to appreciate the present and recognize the unpredictability of life.
Jan 23, 2020 • 4min
You Have To Learn Something From Everyone
Dive into the wisdom of the Stoics and their belief in learning from everyone around us. Marcus Aurelius credits those in his life for valuable lessons, while Seneca emphasizes studying both successes and failures. Discover how Epictetus reminds us that self-righteousness can blind us to these teachings. Reflect on the importance of seeking virtues even in those we might initially judge harshly. The journey of self-improvement and understanding is rooted in the lessons that others, great and small, can offer.
14 snips
Jan 22, 2020 • 4min
A Good Morning Creates A Good Life
Explore the Stoic belief in morning rituals as a pathway to empowerment and peace. Discover how even a few minutes of movement can invigorate your body and mind. Embrace mindfulness to cultivate original thoughts instead of defaulting to screens. The discussion emphasizes that winning the morning lays the groundwork for a fulfilling day, encouraging listeners to adopt transformative strategies for their daily routines.
Jan 21, 2020 • 3min
Do It Because It’s Right. Not So They’ll Like You
The discussion dives into the human craving for external validation and how it can distract us from our true selves. Historical reflections, especially from Marcus Aurelius, highlight the futility of seeking approval from others who may not respect themselves. The podcast emphasizes prioritizing personal integrity and acting on one's principles, rather than chasing fleeting likes. Ultimately, it's about freeing oneself from the desire to impress, allowing for virtuous actions driven by genuine intentions.
Jan 20, 2020 • 3min
Everything is Figureoutable
Life throws challenges our way, from motivational struggles with employees to the complexities of family dynamics. Embracing a 'figureoutable' mindset allows us to tackle these problems as opportunities for growth. Drawing on Stoic philosophy, there's a powerful reminder that each obstacle we face can lead to progress. The podcast emphasizes taking action one step at a time and encourages patience and determination in finding solutions. Remember, if there's a will, there's a way!
Jan 18, 2020 • 10min
Ask Daily Stoic: The Stoic Response to Getting Your House Burgled, and more
The discussion dives into how Stoicism shapes responses to loss and adversity, particularly through the lens of personal experiences like a burglary. Exploring the importance of emphasizing the common good over seeking approval, the speakers reflect on historical inspirations from Marcus Aurelius. There's a thoughtful examination of resilience, highlighting how challenges can foster personal growth and a deeper appreciation of life's fleeting nature. The episode weaves together philosophical insights with relatable anecdotes, offering a rich perspective on navigating life's complexities.
