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
4 snips
Oct 18, 2019 • 3min
You Must Learn How To STOP
Explore the wisdom of Seneca on managing emotional reactions in stressful situations. Learn the importance of the space between stimulus and response, as highlighted by Viktor Frankl. Discover Tara Swart's innovative technique for emotional control called 'STOP,' which encourages you to fully experience overwhelming feelings before regaining composure. Mastering emotional regulation not only helps in personal interactions but also enhances mindfulness in everyday life.
4 snips
Oct 17, 2019 • 4min
What’s Bad For The Hive Is Bad For The Bee
Explore the timeless wisdom of the ancient Greeks and Romans, who argued that individual success is deeply tied to community well-being. Delve into the idea that a flourishing society benefits everyone, echoing modern discussions about inequality. Reflect on the Stoics' belief in our roles within a larger community and the need for connection. Discover how principles like 'what's bad for the hive is bad for the bee' remain relevant today, urging us to foster a sense of togetherness in challenging times.
Oct 16, 2019 • 4min
Time is a Flat Circle
The discussion explores how Marcus Aurelius's thoughts resonate with the themes of Ecclesiastes, emphasizing the cyclical nature of life and history. It reflects on how human experiences—eating, drinking, fighting—remain unchanged through time. The idea that 'time is a flat circle' highlights our repetitive discoveries and lessons. Stoic philosophy and Biblical wisdom intertwine to reveal that the challenges we face are not new, but rather echoes of the past, inviting us to recognize the eternal patterns in our lives.
4 snips
Oct 15, 2019 • 2min
This is How Dumb Anger Is
Anger can lead us to act ridiculously, like kicking a vending machine or shouting at inanimate objects. The discussion draws on ancient philosophy to highlight the absurdity of seeking revenge. It’s amusing yet insightful, showcasing how anger blinds us to its foolishness. Instead of channeling anger into destructive behavior, we’re encouraged to address the root problems. The podcast cleverly illustrates how we often end up punishing ourselves while trying to get even with the world around us.
5 snips
Oct 14, 2019 • 4min
Anyone Can Strive for Virtue
The discussion highlights the common misconception that Stoicism is a male-centric philosophy. A wellness influencer shares insights on how anyone, regardless of gender, can embrace Stoic virtues like perseverance and resilience. The conversation calls for a broader acceptance of Stoicism, emphasizing its universal principles that apply to everyone's journey. It challenges listeners to focus on personal growth and becoming the best version of themselves, transcending gender barriers.
4 snips
Oct 11, 2019 • 3min
Never Stop Trying To Get Better
The podcast dives into the philosophy of relentless self-improvement, drawing insights from ancient thinkers like Diogenes and Marcus Aurelius. It highlights the importance of never easing off the pursuit of personal growth, regardless of age. Listeners are reminded that even in later years, one can still work to overcome anxieties and flaws. The discussion encourages embracing challenges, staying committed to values, and striving for betterment every single day—because it’s never too late to keep pushing towards the finish line.
Oct 10, 2019 • 2min
Tomorrow Will Have Suffering In It
Life is inevitably filled with suffering, and the podcast dives into its many forms, from illness to loss. It emphasizes the need for mental preparedness and resilience, reminding listeners to embrace the reality of hardship. Stoic wisdom guides the discussion, encouraging us to strengthen our minds against life's challenges. By confronting the possibility of future suffering, we can better equip ourselves to handle whatever comes our way. This thought-provoking exploration invites listeners to face life's trials head-on.
Oct 9, 2019 • 3min
You Must Carve Out Time For Quiet
Explore the profound insights of Blaise Pascal on our struggle to find quiet moments, revealing how even the most powerful seek distractions to escape boredom. Discover how Marcus Aurelius set an example by carving out time for solitude and self-reflection amidst his responsibilities. This journey into silence encourages listeners to embrace introspection as a path to personal growth and inner peace, shedding light on the tools available to cultivate tranquility in our chaotic lives.
7 snips
Oct 8, 2019 • 3min
What a Terminal Diagnosis Changes
What if you were told you had a terminal illness? This thought-provoking discussion dives into how such a diagnosis can shift our perspectives on life. Jonathan Church shares his powerful experiences with brain cancer and how Stoicism has guided him through. Instead of despair, he finds purpose in reading, writing, and reflection. Embracing mortality transforms our approach to happiness and productivity. It's a conversation about finding meaning and mindfulness, even in the shadow of death.
Oct 7, 2019 • 3min
What Are We Fighting About, Really?
The discussion dives into the emotional weight of grudges and the triviality of many conflicts we engage in. It draws from Bruce Springsteen’s lyrics, emphasizing how we often fight over nothing substantial. Reflecting on the wisdom of Marcus Aurelius, the hosts urge listeners to examine their anger and the need to be right. They explore how holding onto grievances can lead to loneliness and unhappiness, while reminding us of life's fleeting nature and the importance of letting go to foster deeper connections.
