

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

8 snips
Jul 31, 2024 • 3min
This Ain’t No Sin
In tough times, gratitude is crucial for finding joy. Embracing small pleasures and human connections can illuminate even the darkest moments. The discussion emphasizes appreciating the gift of life and seizing each day as a reminder of our mortality. A powerful medallion serves as a tangible symbol of this wisdom, encouraging reflection on life's transient nature.

4 snips
Jul 31, 2024 • 34min
Patrick Dempsey on Ethical Dilemmas, Being of Service, and Embracing Stoicism
Patrick Dempsey, renowned actor and race car driver, shares insights on ethical dilemmas and the importance of service with a focus on community contributions. He reflects on how the entertainment industry shapes societal values and emphasizes personal integrity in everyday decisions. Dempsey also discusses his embrace of Stoicism, illustrating how its principles affect both his acting career and racing. The conversation highlights the relevance of ancient wisdom in modern life, encouraging listeners to navigate challenges with composure.

19 snips
Jul 30, 2024 • 14min
How Much Sad Do You Think You Have? | 10 Stoic Tips For Handling Rude People
Explore the depths of sadness faced by Stoic thinkers like Seneca, and discover how cultivating inner strength can guide you through tough times. Learn practical strategies to deal with rudeness and negativity, helping you stay true to your values. The podcast highlights the value of embracing frustrating encounters as opportunities for personal growth. Gain insights on navigating criticism with dignity, setting boundaries, and fostering patience in challenging relationships. It's all about transforming adversity into wisdom!

5 snips
Jul 29, 2024 • 9min
We Really Screwed This Up, Didn’t We? | A Week Without Complaining
Explore the decline of virtue in today’s cynical world and discover how historical figures like Cicero and Aristotle can inspire a revival. Learn to embrace personal responsibility by shifting from a complaint-driven mindset to proactive solutions. Dive into Stoic teachings on accountability and the power of choice in shaping your emotional landscape. A no-complaint challenge awaits, encouraging you to own your thoughts and actions for greater resilience.

5 snips
Jul 28, 2024 • 12min
Seneca on Practicing What You Preach
In this insightful discussion, Seneca, the renowned Roman Stoic philosopher, emphasizes the importance of aligning actions with words. He delves into the challenges of living authentically and the necessity of practicing what one preaches. Seneca also reveals how embracing poverty can lead to genuine relationships and self-worth that transcends material possessions. His reflections encourage self-reflection and consistent application of philosophical principles in daily life, making Stoicism a practical guide for personal growth.

Jul 27, 2024 • 43min
Olympic Kickoff | Gold Medalist Dominique Dawes, Michael Phelps' Coach Bob Bowman, and Basketball Icon George Raveling
Join Olympic gold medalist Dominique Dawes, who shares her journey as one of the 'Magnificent Seven' and what it means to compete at the highest level. Bob Bowman, Michael Phelps’ coach, recounts tales from epic Olympic moments and reveals his training philosophies. Legendary basketball coach George Raveling discusses the crucial relationships in sports and his influence on Michael Jordan's partnership with Nike. Together, they offer insights on resilience, mental focus, and the true essence of sportsmanship.

11 snips
Jul 26, 2024 • 10min
No One Escapes This | When Good Men Do Nothing
Delve into the moral imperative of taking action, especially in times of crisis. Explore the consequences of complacency and how historical decisions resonate today. The discussion emphasizes Stoic virtues like justice, urging listeners to embrace criticism and reflect on their moral responsibilities. Therapy is highlighted as a crucial tool for growth and resilience. Historical examples remind us of the dangers of inaction in the face of injustice, prompting a call to proactive engagement in societal challenges.

13 snips
Jul 25, 2024 • 17min
Everyone (And Everything) Is Like A River | Ask DS
Explore the timeless wisdom of Marcus Aurelius and how it relates to personal growth through the metaphor of rivers. Discuss the ever-changing nature of existence and the impact of different translations on our understanding. Dive into the sacrifices and challenges leaders face, while balancing present joy with future aspirations. Reflect on redefining success by prioritizing personal impact over professional accolades. Discover the transformative power of context in ancient texts and how it shapes our motivations.

Jul 24, 2024 • 2min
Are You Allowed To Cry?
Explore the intriguing intersection of Stoicism and emotional expression. The discussion challenges the misconception that Stoics are emotionless, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability. Drawing on Marcus Aurelius's insights, listeners are encouraged to embrace their humanity and the healing power of crying. This episode reminds us that being tough doesn't mean suppressing emotions; instead, it advocates for emotional release as a path to better mental health.

18 snips
Jul 24, 2024 • 1h 13min
Stoicism for Turbulent Times (and Divisive Politics) | History of Rome Podcaster Mike Duncan on Political Parallels
In this engaging discussion, Mike Duncan, author of "Storm Before the Storm" and host of "The History of Rome," draws parallels between Roman history and today's tumultuous political landscape. He delves into the normalization of political violence, urging introspection and accountability among leaders. The conversation explores the decline of the Roman Republic and systemic issues that echo in modern politics, highlighting the importance of resilience and Stoicism in navigating chaos. Duncan emphasizes learning from history to foster unity and political integrity.


