SOLVED with Mark Manson A Comprehensive Guide to Stoicism (ft. Ryan Holiday)
Ryan Holiday, bestselling author and advocate for modern Stoicism, explores the roots and relevance of this ancient philosophy. He highlights Stoicism's evolution during crises in Greece and Rome, discussing key figures like Zeno, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius. The conversation delves into the four cardinal virtues—courage, temperance, justice, and wisdom—and their applications today. Ryan also examines Stoicism's overlap with modern psychology, its appeal to younger generations, and the potential for misunderstanding in contemporary contexts.
02:53:39
Stoicism Was Born From Crisis
- Stoicism emerged as a practical response to cultural crisis and instability after Alexander's death.
- It aimed to help people live well amid chaos rather than retreat or theorize abstractly.
Zeno's Shipwrecked Conversion
- Zeno washed up penniless after a shipwreck and found philosophy in Athens.
- He rebuilt his life and started teaching on the Stoa Poikile, which became Stoicism's origin story.
Stoicism Is A Practical Synthesis
- Many Stoic practices were inherited from earlier schools like the Cynics, Plato, and Aristotle.
- Zeno synthesized practical threads into a concise, action-oriented philosophy.
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Intro
00:00 • 3min
Historical Context: Why Stoicism Emerged
02:50 • 4min
Zeno’s Origin Story and the Painted Porch
07:05 • 4min
Stoicism’s Roots: Influences from Other Schools
11:32 • 10min
Stoic Framework: Logic, Physics, Ethics Explained
21:07 • 12min
Successors: Cleanthes and the Practical Turn
33:32 • 4min
Chrysippus Systematizes Stoicism
37:11 • 7min
The Four Cardinal Virtues Overview
43:57 • 3min
Courage: Moral and Physical Commitment
46:56 • 6min
Temperance as Discipline and Balance
53:15 • 12min
Justice: Concentric Circles and Social Duty
01:04:57 • 4min
Wisdom: Discernment, Context, and Judgment
01:08:52 • 17min
Roman Influence: Greece Conquers Rome Culturally
01:25:51 • 7min
Cato the Younger: Stoic Integrity in Politics
01:32:50 • 4min
Choosing Inside or Outside: Seneca’s Dilemma
01:36:42 • 7min
Seneca’s Practices: Negative Visualization and Journaling
01:43:36 • 12min
Epictetus: Freedom Inside Captivity
01:55:50 • 7min
Epictetus’ Core Lessons and Teaching Methods
02:02:51 • 59sec
Marcus Aurelius: Meditations as Private Practice
02:03:50 • 7min
Marcus Aurelius’ Reign: Virtue vs. Political Reality
02:10:50 • 10min
Stoicism’s Long Legacy in Western Thought
02:20:25 • 7min
Modern Resurgence: Stoicism Meets Psychology and Leadership
02:27:11 • 13min
How Stoicism Spread Today and Popular Misuses
02:39:57 • 10min
Stoicism Today: What to Keep and What to Update
02:49:42 • 3min
80/20 Stoicism: Core Practice and Takeaways
02:52:43 • 29sec
Outro
02:53:12 • 28sec
#627
• Mentioned in 37 episodes
Epictetus' Discourses
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Epictetus
Epictetus' Discourses, compiled by his student Arrian, represent a cornerstone of Stoic philosophy.
These teachings emphasize inner freedom, focusing on what we can control—our thoughts and actions—rather than external events.
Epictetus's practical approach to living a virtuous life resonates with readers seeking guidance on managing emotions and navigating life's challenges.
His emphasis on self-awareness and acceptance of what is beyond our control offers a path to inner peace and resilience.
The Discourses remain a valuable resource for understanding and applying Stoic principles in daily life.
#531
• Mentioned in 42 episodes
The storm before the storm
The Beginning of the End of the Roman Republic
Duncan, Michael (Podcaster)
Mike Duncan
This book chronicles the years 146-78 BC, a period marked by the rise of economic inequality, social and ethnic prejudice, and rampant corruption, which ultimately led to the collapse of the Roman Republic.
Duncan explores how men like Marius, Sulla, and the Gracchi brothers set new precedents that undermined the traditional principles of the Republic, leading it towards destruction.
The book also draws parallels between the decline of the Roman Republic and contemporary political issues, highlighting the importance of maintaining democratic norms and addressing social and economic inequalities.
#1169
• Mentioned in 24 episodes
Seneca's Letters
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Seneca
Seneca's 'Letters from a Stoic' is a collection of personal letters offering philosophical guidance and reflections on life.
Written to his friend Lucilius, these letters cover a wide range of topics, including virtue, happiness, death, and the importance of living in accordance with nature.
Seneca's writing style is engaging and accessible, making complex philosophical ideas understandable to a wider audience.
The letters provide practical advice and encouragement for navigating life's challenges and cultivating inner peace.
Their enduring relevance stems from their timeless wisdom and their focus on personal growth and self-improvement.
#170
• Mentioned in 95 episodes
Nicomachean Ethics
Aristotle
The Nicomachean Ethics is Aristotle's most renowned work on ethics, focusing on the science of the good for human life.
The text is divided into ten books and discusses the concept of eudaimonia, often translated as 'happiness' or 'flourishing,' which is achieved through living a virtuous life.
Aristotle argues that eudaimonia is an activity of the soul in accordance with virtue, emphasizing the importance of reason, moral virtues, and the pursuit of excellence.
The work also explores the division of the soul, the role of rationality in human life, and the ultimate goal of human activity, which is to achieve happiness through virtuous actions and a complete life.
#8
• Mentioned in 380 episodes
The obstacle is the way
Ryan Holiday
In 'The Obstacle Is the Way', Ryan Holiday presents a framework for turning obstacles into successes.
Drawing from the philosophy of Stoicism and the writings of Marcus Aurelius, Holiday outlines three disciplines: perception, action, and will.
He illustrates these principles with historical anecdotes from figures such as John D. Rockefeller, Amelia Earhart, Ulysses S. Grant, and Steve Jobs.
The book emphasizes the importance of perception in shaping one's response to obstacles, the need for intentional and creative action, and the cultivation of will to persist through challenges.
Holiday argues that by adopting these Stoic principles, individuals can transform their obstacles into opportunities for growth and success.
#3
• Mentioned in 870 episodes
Meditations
Marcus Aurelius
Meditations is a series of private writings composed by Marcus Aurelius, one of Rome's greatest emperors, as he struggled to understand himself and make sense of the universe.
Written between 170 and 180 CE while on military campaigns, this work combines Stoic philosophy with personal observations on leadership, duty, mortality, and human nature.
Through twelve books of intimate thoughts never intended for publication, Marcus Aurelius explores themes of self-improvement, resilience in the face of adversity, and living virtuously while accepting what cannot be changed.
#4840
• Mentioned in 7 episodes
Cato
A Tragedy
Joseph Addison
Written in 1712, 'Cato: A Tragedy' by Joseph Addison explores themes of individual liberty, government tyranny, and personal integrity through the story of Marcus Porcius Cato Uticensis.
The play was highly influential during the American Revolution, symbolizing virtue and patriotism.
It weaves Stoic philosophy throughout its narrative, highlighting Cato's unwavering commitment to his principles.
#39
• Mentioned in 207 episodes
Ego is the Enemy
Ryan Holiday
In *Ego Is the Enemy*, Ryan Holiday delves into the concept of ego and its detrimental effects on personal and professional success.
The book is divided into three sections: Aspiration, Success, and Failure, each offering valuable lessons and perspectives.
Holiday draws on a vast array of stories and examples from literature, philosophy, and history, featuring figures such as George Marshall, Jackie Robinson, Katharine Graham, Bill Belichick, and Eleanor Roosevelt.
These individuals achieved great success by conquering their own egos, and their strategies and tactics are presented as models for readers.
The book emphasizes the importance of staying grounded, continually learning, and embracing a mindset of growth rather than letting ego hinder development.
#35
• Mentioned in 219 episodes
Discipline is Destiny
The Power of Self-Control
Ryan Holiday
In 'Discipline is Destiny', Ryan Holiday explores the Stoic virtue of self-discipline, drawing on historical figures and contemporary examples to illustrate its transformative power.
The book emphasizes that discipline is the foundation upon which other virtues such as courage, justice, and wisdom depend.
Holiday argues that self-control is essential for personal triumph and fulfillment, and he provides engaging stories and practical advice on how to cultivate discipline in a world filled with distractions and temptations.
The book also cautions against the perils of extravagance and hedonism, stressing the importance of balance and self-mastery in achieving success and happiness.
#99
• Mentioned in 134 episodes
Lives of the Stoics
The Art of Living from Zeno to Marcus Aurelius
Ryan Holiday
Stephen Hanselman
This book presents the fascinating lives of twenty-six ancient Stoics, from Zeno to Marcus Aurelius, organized in digestible mini-biographies.
It vividly brings to life the stories of key Stoic philosophers, such as Seneca, Epictetus, and Cicero, and demonstrates how their philosophies shaped their actions and legacies.
The authors intertwine historical context with philosophical insights, making the book both educational and entertaining.
It shows how Stoic principles can be applied to modern life, emphasizing virtues like Courage, Justice, Temperance, and Wisdom.
#922
• Mentioned in 29 episodes
Republic
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Plato
Plato's Republic is one of his most famous works, a philosophical dialogue exploring justice, ideal societies, and the nature of reality.
It features the allegory of the cave, a powerful metaphor for the limitations of human perception and the pursuit of knowledge.
The dialogue delves into various forms of government, analyzing their strengths and weaknesses, ultimately advocating for a philosopher-king to rule the ideal state.
The Republic also examines the tripartite soul, proposing that reason, spirit, and appetite must be harmonized for individual and societal well-being.
Its enduring influence on political philosophy and ethics makes it a cornerstone of Western thought.
#249
• Mentioned in 72 episodes
Wisdom Takes Work
Ryan Holiday
What does it actually mean to live like a Stoic? In this wide-ranging conversation with bestselling author and modern Stoicism evangelist Ryan Holiday, we unpack the origins of Stoic philosophy, why it exploded during turbulent times in ancient Greece and Rome, and how its principles—like courage, temperance, justice, and wisdom—still apply in a world filled with chaos, anxiety, and uncertainty. From shipwrecked merchants to emperors journaling their fears, this episode explores why some of the most powerful figures in history turned to Stoicism not just for answers—but for survival.
We also dig into how Stoicism overlaps with modern psychology, why it’s gaining traction among young men, and whether its rising popularity is being misunderstood or misused. If you’ve ever wondered whether Stoicism means being emotionless, if it’s compatible with ambition, or if it actually makes you a better person, this episode is your one-stop masterclass.
Order Ryan Holiday’s new book, Wisdom Takes Work: https://www.amazon.com/Wisdom-Takes-Work-Repeat-Virtues/dp/0593191730
We also put together a free companion guide for this episode with all the takeaways, references, and tools to help you get your sh*t together once and for all. Download it here: https://solvedpodcast.com/stoicism
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Produced by Drew Birnie Research by Zenya Giatzoglou, Katherine Wei, & Gage Greer Edited by SJ van Breda Director of Photography Jess Choi Thumbnail by Jonathan Sippel
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
02:49 Setting the Scene: Ancient Greece After Alexander
06:44 The Story of Zeno: Founder of Stoicism
13:58 The Four Stoic Virtues
44:20 Virtue 1: Courage
53:17 Virtue 2: Temperance (Discipline)
1:05:01 Virtue 3: Justice
1:08:51 Virtue 4: Wisdom
1:25:51 Roman Conquest and the Spread of Stoicism
1:33:10 Cato the Younger: The Stoic Martyr
1:39:06 Seneca: The Conflicted Philosopher
1:55:50 Epictetus: The Slave Philosopher
2:07:28 Marcus Aurelius: The Philosopher Emperor
2:20:18 Stoicism Through History
2:32:45 Stoicism and Modern Psychology
2:41:09 The Modern Stoicism Revival
2:50:06 Final Thoughts and Recommendations
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