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 17, 2020 • 3min
When It Comes To Family, We Have To Be Kind
Explore the power of kindness in family relationships, inspired by Marcus Aurelius and Cato. Delve into how love and forgiveness triumph over rigid judgments, even for those who don’t meet our standards. Reflect on whether it’s Stoic to treat loved ones differently and the complexities of familial ties. With historical anecdotes and a touch of Bruce Springsteen, the discussion emphasizes the delicate balance between acceptance and responsibility in our closest relationships.
Jan 16, 2020 • 2min
All We Can Do Is Propose
Life is full of surprises, and plans often go awry. A Stoic perspective emphasizes accepting these changes, viewing them as opportunities rather than setbacks. The idea of 'amor fati'—loving one's fate—teaches us to embrace whatever comes our way. Resilience and adaptability become our greatest tools as we navigate the unpredictable nature of existence. Instead of clinging to our original intentions, we can shift our focus to how we choose to respond to life's twists and turns.
Jan 15, 2020 • 4min
You Win Some, You Lose Some
Winners and losers are part of life, especially in politics. The podcast dives into historical figures like Cato and Cicero, who faced defeats yet remained resilient. It highlights Zeno's humorous take on financial loss and how Stoics maintain perspective. Modern examples, like Mitt Romney, remind us that personal identity isn't solely defined by victories. Emphasis is placed on resilience, determination, and the importance of moving forward when faced with setbacks.
Jan 14, 2020 • 3min
We Are All Equal At The End
The podcast delves into the profound reflections of Marcus Aurelius on mortality, using Alexander the Great as a striking example. It highlights the idea that no matter one's power, death is the ultimate equalizer. A mysterious theory regarding Alexander’s demise suggests he may have suffered from Guillain-Barre Syndrome, shedding light on the painful and terrifying nature of his last days. This serves as a humbling reminder to embrace life with virtue, acknowledging our shared humanity and inevitable fate.
Jan 13, 2020 • 3min
The Kind of Opportunity You Should Always Say Yes To
Explore the Stoic view on travel, where escapism is frowned upon in favor of purposeful exploration. The podcast highlights historical figures like Marcus Aurelius and Seneca, emphasizing that true retreats come from introspection, not constant movement. Travel isn’t just about sights; it can be a journey of personal growth and learning. Join in as the discussion unveils how these ancient philosophers balanced their worldly experiences with a commitment to deeper understanding.
Jan 11, 2020 • 10min
Ask Daily Stoic: January 11, 2020
In a thought-provoking discussion, the hosts delve into balancing ambition with Stoic principles. They emphasize the importance of focusing on personal effort instead of the uncontrollable outcomes of life. Reflections on memento mori inspire listeners to live authentically and embrace uncertainty. It's a compelling exploration of how ambition can coexist with Stoicism.
Jan 10, 2020 • 3min
You Don’t Get To Not Care
Explore the tension in Stoicism between accepting fate and exercising personal agency. Delve into the dilemma of remaining detached while fulfilling civic duties. Reflect on how disengagement from societal issues can lead to greater suffering for vulnerable populations. Hear the poignant reminder from Pericles about the necessity of commitment in the face of injustice. The discussion emphasizes that personal peace shouldn't come at the expense of collective responsibility, especially in the face of global crises.
Jan 9, 2020 • 3min
Here’s an Important Power You Have
Explore the profound concept of 'the ask' and how it influences our reactions. Discover how to shift your perspective, avoiding offense and anger at requests. Reflect on Epictetus' teachings, emphasizing that our judgments shape our feelings. Realize you hold the power to respond calmly, whether by accepting, declining, or ignoring a request. Learn to navigate social pressures with a rational mindset, choosing to let go of unnecessary upset.
Jan 8, 2020 • 2min
Where Are They Now?
This discussion dives into the fleeting nature of fame, drawing parallels between contemporary celebrities and historical figures like Marcus Aurelius. It reveals how even the most famous eventually fade into obscurity or meet their end, challenging our perceptions of legacy. The hosts reflect on how stories of fame often miss the grim realities of mortality, emphasizing that regardless of success, fate is relentless. This thought-provoking conversation urges listeners to consider the reality behind the glamorous narratives.
Jan 7, 2020 • 3min
Try This Secret Roman Party Trick
Dive into the wild world of ancient Roman parties, where moderation was key! Discover how they famously watered down their wine, viewing it as a symbol of balance. Learn about the drink preferences of notable figures like Seneca and Socrates, and reflect on the value of mixing things up in your own life. What vices could you 'water down' for a happier, more controlled existence? This episode reminds us to embrace moderation in a fun and relatable way!
