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
Oct 4, 2019 • 3min
Every Day is a Bonus
Discover the transformative power of treating each day as a bonus. Inspired by Seneca, the discussion emphasizes reflecting on mortality to foster gratitude and presence in everyday life. Learn how this mindset can lighten burdens and shift focus from trivial worries to appreciating each moment. With a nod to Memento Mori, the conversation also introduces a new signet ring design that symbolizes this philosophy. Embrace the idea that every morning is an opportunity, enhancing your daily experiences!
5 snips
Oct 3, 2019 • 3min
What Is Luck and What Is Not
This discussion explores the fascinating tension between hard work and luck in achieving success. It highlights how outlier accomplishments often require both, challenging the notion of a pure meritocracy. The conversation emphasizes the Stoic perspective of focusing on what we can control—our actions—rather than external validation from accolades or recognition. It also brings to light the randomness of life, illustrating that brilliant minds can fail while less deserving individuals can soar. Ultimately, it encourages listeners to find fulfillment in their personal efforts.
Oct 2, 2019 • 3min
How To Always Be Well
Dive into the ancient wisdom of Stoic philosophy as it connects to modern well-being. A charming exchange between friends highlights the idea that true wellness comes from engaging with philosophy. Learn how legendary Stoics like Marcus Aurelius and Cato found strength in their beliefs during adversity. The discussion urges us to embrace philosophical practices as a path to cultivate resilience and mental clarity, no matter the chaos of life.
5 snips
Oct 1, 2019 • 4min
This Is The Key To The Good Life
Explore the concept of stillness as crucial for a fulfilling life. Influential thinkers like Marcus Aurelius and Buddha demonstrate how mental clarity helps navigate challenges. The podcast connects historical examples of leaders and artists who found power in peace. Discover the various cultural interpretations of stillness, from upekkha to aequanimitas. Understanding this tranquility can enhance your ability to hit targets, overcome obstacles, and lead effectively in a chaotic world.
5 snips
Sep 30, 2019 • 3min
The Kind of Politics You Should Study
Modern politics often feels overly simplistic and polarized, with outrage dominating discussions. The call to action is to revisit historical wisdom, particularly the insights of Thucydides. By examining past leaders and ethical dilemmas, we can cultivate virtues like wisdom and courage in our political conversations. The lessons from history are timeless and can guide us through the complexities of today's world.
5 snips
Sep 27, 2019 • 3min
Just Don’t Make Things Worse
The discussion begins with Zeus lamenting how humans blame the gods for their suffering. It explores the unfairness of life and how misfortunes are often out of our control. Stoicism teaches us that while bad things happen, we should avoid compounding our problems through folly. The story of Odysseus serves as a perfect example of how cleverness can lead to unnecessary trouble. Ultimately, it's a reflection on the importance of resilience and not making our challenges worse.
Sep 26, 2019 • 4min
Planting Trees In Shade We’ll Never Know
Discover the heartwarming story of Ken Watson, who left gifts for his young neighbor, embodying foresight and kindness. The discussion critiques modern politics, highlighting how short-term thinking among the elderly impacts future generations. Reflecting on Stoic philosophy, it emphasizes the importance of planting metaphorical trees for the benefit of those who come after us. It’s a call to action for listeners to consider their legacy and the responsibilities they hold towards a better future.
Sep 25, 2019 • 4min
Put Everything In the Calm and Mild Light
Explore timeless wisdom as a famous quote from George Washington reveals how serenity shapes our perspective. Discover how the calmness of mild philosophy can guide us through life's challenges. The exceptional customer service of Alaska Airlines serves as a modern example of applying Stoic principles, reminding us of the importance of maintaining composure. Tune in for insights that blend historical philosophy with contemporary experiences.
6 snips
Sep 24, 2019 • 4min
You Must Tame Your Temper
Explore the age-old struggle with anger and how it affects our lives. Discover Stoic insights on questioning our emotional responses and the common triggers of anger. Learn about practical strategies for mastering your temper, turning damaging outbursts into opportunities for growth. Hear about famous figures like Marcus Aurelius grappling with this universal human challenge, and how the wisdom of the Stoics can guide our journey toward greater emotional control.
4 snips
Sep 23, 2019 • 3min
What To Learn From History
Exploring the darkest moments in history reveals a frightening truth about human nature. The podcast discusses Seneca's reflections on vulnerability, reminding us that we are all subject to fate's whims. It emphasizes the importance of humility; we often overestimate our safety and significance. Historical atrocities, like decimation, serve as stark reminders of our fragility. Ultimately, understanding our past is crucial for building resilience in the face of life’s uncertainties.
