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
45 snips
Feb 18, 2024 • 9min
Preparation Makes You Brave | Courage is Calling
Explore how courage is intricately linked to preparation and training. Discover personal stories from athletics that showcase the importance of diligent practice. Learn how facing fears through repeated actions builds true bravery. Gain insights from the Roman army on overcoming challenges in high-pressure situations. Plus, find inspiration in transforming your home into an Airbnb for personal growth and confidence. Embrace the journey of readiness to tackle life’s adversities!
63 snips
Feb 17, 2024 • 1h 4min
Mick Mulroy on the Beauty of Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations and the Collective Need For Philosophy
Mick Mulroy, a former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense and CIA officer, explores the enduring relevance of Stoicism, particularly through Marcus Aurelius’ 'Meditations.' He discusses the simplicity and challenges of practicing Stoic philosophy today. The conversation highlights essential traits we seek in modern leaders and emphasizes the importance of self-reflection. Mulroy also connects ancient wisdom to contemporary issues, showcasing how Stoicism can provide clarity and resilience amidst societal complexities.
13 snips
Feb 16, 2024 • 8min
They Felt This Weight | Don't Make Things Harder Than They Need To Be
The discussion challenges the misconception of Stoicism as merely dark or depressing, revealing the deep personal grief that shaped its philosophers. It emphasizes how Marcus Aurelius and Seneca's writings reflect their profound losses. The conversation then shifts to the dangers of conditional happiness, critiquing the relentless pursuit of future achievements at the expense of present joy. Lastly, it examines the balance between ambition and contentment, highlighting the importance of self-acceptance and mental well-being in navigating life's challenges.
13 snips
Feb 15, 2024 • 14min
Do This. It’s Enough. | Ask Ds
Dive into the wisdom of John Adams and Marcus Aurelius, emphasizing humility and lifelong learning. Discover the struggle content creators face in staying authentic while meeting commercial demands. Unpack the challenges of navigating untapped market opportunities and understanding consumer hesitations. Amidst the complexities of life and business, the timeless lesson emerges: doing the right thing and pursuing virtue is always the best path forward.
4 snips
Feb 14, 2024 • 1h 21min
Colin Elliott On The Art Of Navigating Lessons From History To The Modern World
Colin Elliott, an Assistant Professor in History at Indiana University and expert on the Roman Empire, shares intriguing insights on societal responses to pandemics. He draws parallels between the Antonine Plague and modern-day COVID-19, critiquing responses and advocating for a science-driven approach. Elliott emphasizes the importance of leadership during crises, reflecting on Marcus Aurelius's Stoic philosophy and its relevance today. The conversation also highlights historical injustices and the need for accountability as we navigate future public health challenges.
9 snips
Feb 14, 2024 • 3min
Get Narrow Before Life Does
The discussion highlights how great Stoic philosophers valued relationships in their final moments. A personal story from a comedian reveals a life-altering experience that shifted her focus from ambitions to family. The realization that, in the face of mortality, what truly matters are the loved ones around us becomes a poignant theme. It's a reminder to prioritize meaningful connections over societal measures of success.
59 snips
Feb 13, 2024 • 17min
Don’t Let It Change You | How To Actually Be Happier In 2024 (According to the Stoics)
Explore the remarkable life of Cato, a model of integrity against societal corruption. Discover how cultivating true happiness through Stoic principles involves focusing on what we can control and nurturing virtues. Learn the wealth in desiring less and embracing gratitude, along with how humor can offer relief in life's absurdities, as illustrated by the comical tale of Chrysippus. The conversation also emphasizes simplicity and acceptance as pathways to lasting happiness, especially in challenging times.
11 snips
Feb 12, 2024 • 9min
You Are An Artist (Whether You Know It Or Not) | Watch Over Your Perceptions
Unleash your inner artist by embracing life’s challenges! Mikel Jollett shares how painful experiences can spark creativity and inspire artistic expression. Delve into Stoic philosophy's wisdom on managing perceptions and finding inner peace amidst chaos. Discover the power of focus and discipline in a world full of distractions, as you learn to guard what truly matters. Transform your struggles into something meaningful and start your journey towards personal growth!
109 snips
Feb 11, 2024 • 17min
How To Plan Your Day Like Marcus Aurelius
In this engaging discussion, voice actor Michael Reid sheds light on the daily habits of Marcus Aurelius, the last of the Five Good Emperors. They dive into how early rising, embracing responsibilities, and journaling can transform modern life. Insights reveal the power of negative visualization and the importance of finding stillness amid chaos. Listeners can learn to view everyday spaces as opportunities for creativity and income. This exploration of Stoic principles offers a practical roadmap for mastering your day with purpose.
5 snips
Feb 10, 2024 • 58min
Author Evelyn McDonnell On Joan Didion’s Life and Legacy (Pt 2)
Evelyn McDonnell, a writer and journalism professor, dives deep into Joan Didion's remarkable life and legacy. She discusses how Didion's personal tragedies shaped her writing, demonstrating the transformative power of art in expressing grief. The conversation also explores the challenges Didion faced navigating motherhood and public life, revealing the intricate dynamics of parenting under societal expectations. Additionally, they examine Didion's resilience through her educational journey and emphasize the importance of critiquing power, championing underrepresented voices.
