The Daily Stoic Austin Kleon on Fueling Artistic Ambition
Austin Kleon, a renowned writer and artist known for his bestselling books, dives into the nuances of creativity with Ryan. He discusses the importance of hobbies in fueling artistic ambition and reflects on how societal pressures can make us feel machine-like. The conversation highlights the evolution of music as a communal experience, the challenges of modern creative expression, and the complexities of fame. Kleon also shares insights on engaging children through storytelling, emphasizing playfulness in nurturing a love for art and literature.
01:00:47
Sunrise Dilemma
- Ryan Holiday experienced a beautiful sunrise while swimming but questioned whether to capture it or stay present.
- He chose to keep swimming, prioritizing the experience over the photo.
Savor the Moment
- Austin Kleon suggests we shouldn't interrupt experiences to capture them, as observation changes the experience.
- He suggests savoring a moment instead of trying to preserve it if the idea isn't crucial.
Audiobook Limitations
- Austin Kleon listened to C.S. Lewis's autobiography while driving.
- He found it difficult to "underline" key passages, highlighting a drawback of audiobooks.
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Intro
00:00 • 2min
The Importance of Showing Up in Artistic Endeavors
01:42 • 3min
The Art of Living and Creating
04:19 • 17min
Authenticity and Influence in Music History
21:40 • 3min
The Evolution of Music and Creativity
25:00 • 17min
The Challenge of Artistic Ambition and Effective Hiring
42:24 • 2min
The Pursuit of Authenticity in Fame and Literature
44:22 • 20min
Creative Parenting: Engaging Kids Through Story and Play
01:04:22 • 3min
Steal like an artist
10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative
Austin Kleon
This book, which began as a speech given by Austin Kleon to college students, expands into a manifesto for creativity.
It outlines ten transformative principles such as 'Steal like an artist' (honoring, studying, and transforming ideas), 'Don’t wait until you know who you are to start making things,' and 'Use your hands' (emphasizing physical work).
Kleon argues that creativity is not original but builds on what came before, and he provides practical tips and inspiring concepts for artists, writers, musicians, and anyone generating creative work.
Big Magic
Elizabeth Gilbert
In 'Big Magic', Elizabeth Gilbert delves into the mysteries of creativity, encouraging readers to live more creative and fulfilling lives.
The book is divided into six parts: Courage, Enchantment, Permission, Persistence, Trust, and Divinity.
Gilbert argues that creativity is an essential part of human nature and that it requires courage to accept and overcome fears.
She emphasizes the importance of persistence, trust in the creative process, and the need to separate creativity from the pressure of making a living.
Through personal anecdotes and insights from other artists, Gilbert demystifies the creative process and inspires readers to pursue their passions with curiosity rather than fear.
Surprised by Joy
C.S. Lewis
The Odyssey
Homer
The Odyssey, attributed to Homer, is an ancient Greek epic poem that tells the story of Odysseus, king of Ithaca, and his ten-year journey home after the Trojan War. The poem explores Odysseus's encounters with various mythical creatures, divine interventions, and natural challenges.
Upon his return to Ithaca, he must confront the suitors who have been vying for his wife Penelope's hand in marriage.
With the help of his son Telemachus and the goddess Athena, Odysseus devises a plan to defeat the suitors and reclaim his throne.
The poem is a reflection on human nature, loyalty, and the consequences of one's actions, and it remains a crucial component of ancient Greek literature and Western cultural heritage.
Show Your Work!
Austin Kleon
In 'Show Your Work!
', Austin Kleon provides a manifesto for succeeding as any kind of artist or entrepreneur in the digital age.
The book emphasizes the importance of generosity over genius, getting 'findable' by using the network, and self-discovery through sharing your creative process.
It offers ten transformative rules for being open, generous, brave, and productive, including chapters on sharing something small every day, engaging with your audience, and the etiquette of sharing online.
The book is filled with illustrations, quotes, stories, and examples to inspire and guide readers in their creative journeys.
Amusing Ourselves to Death
Public Discourse in the Age of Show Business
Neil Postman
In this book, Neil Postman argues that the contemporary world is more akin to Aldous Huxley's 'Brave New World' than George Orwell's '1984'.
Postman contends that television's emphasis on entertainment has led to a decline in rational discourse and the trivialization of politics, education, and religion.
He contrasts the print-based culture of the 19th century with the televisual culture of the 20th century, highlighting how the medium of television inherently promotes incoherence and triviality, turning serious information into a form of entertainment.
Steal like an artist
10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative
Austin Kleon
This book, which began as a speech given by Austin Kleon to college students, expands into a manifesto for creativity.
It outlines ten transformative principles such as 'Steal like an artist' (honoring, studying, and transforming ideas), 'Don’t wait until you know who you are to start making things,' and 'Use your hands' (emphasizing physical work).
Kleon argues that creativity is not original but builds on what came before, and he provides practical tips and inspiring concepts for artists, writers, musicians, and anyone generating creative work.
Keep Going
10 Ways to Stay Creative in Good Times and Bad
Austin Kleon
In 'Keep Going', Austin Kleon offers ten simple yet profound rules to help creative individuals stay inspired, focused, and true to themselves.
The book emphasizes the importance of daily routines, disconnecting from the world to connect with oneself, and finding inspiration in everyday life.
It also delves into themes such as the value of tidying up, the importance of fresh air, and the need to leave things better than you found them.
The book is filled with motivational quotes, anecdotes, and artwork, making it a unique and inspiring read for anyone looking to sustain their creative journey.
Montaigne's Essays
Montaigne's Essays
Michel de Montaigne
Montaigne
Stefan Zweig
This biography by Stefan Zweig delves into the life and philosophy of Michel de Montaigne, a Renaissance French statesman and philosopher.
Zweig, who was living in exile in Brazil during World War II, found solace in Montaigne's writings and drew parallels between Montaigne's turbulent times and his own.
The book discusses Montaigne's unique upbringing, his public life, and his retreat to a tower to write his famous 'Essais'.
Zweig admires Montaigne's commitment to individual freedom and his ability to maintain his moral and spiritual independence in the face of societal chaos.
The biography is as much about Montaigne as it is about Zweig's own reflections on freedom, tolerance, and the human condition during times of turmoil.
Seneca's Works
Seneca's Works
Seneca the Younger
Newspaper Blackout
Austin Kleon
Newspaper Blackout is a unique collection of poems by Austin Kleon, created by eliminating unwanted words from newspaper articles with a permanent marker.
The book includes original poems by Kleon, submissions from readers, and an appendix on how to create your own blackout poetry.
It has been praised for its innovative approach to poetry and has inspired a movement in blackout poetry across the internet.
Abraham Lincoln's Works
Abraham Lincoln's Works
Abraham Lincoln
Joan Didion's Works
Joan Didion's Works
Joan Didion
Blaise Pascal's Works
Blaise Pascal's Works
Blaise Pascal
J.J. Redick's Works
J.J. Redick's Works
J.J. Redick
David Foster Wallace's essay on talk radio hosts
David Foster Wallace's essay on talk radio hosts
David Foster Wallace
Charles Dickens' works
null
Charles Dickens
While not a single book, Charles Dickens's novels are collectively considered some of the greatest works of English literature.
His works, including "Oliver Twist," "Great Expectations," and "A Tale of Two Cities," are known for their vivid portrayal of Victorian society, their social commentary, and their memorable characters.
Dickens's narrative style is characterized by its humor, pathos, and social realism.
His novels explore themes of poverty, social injustice, and the human condition, and their enduring appeal lies in their timeless exploration of human experience.
Dickens's influence on literature and culture is undeniable, and his works continue to be widely read and studied.
Mark Twain's Works
Mark Twain
Elon Musk
Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future
Ashlee Vance
This book is an authorized biography that delves into the life of Elon Musk, from his tumultuous childhood in South Africa to his rise as a visionary entrepreneur in Silicon Valley.
Ashlee Vance captures Musk's journey through his various ventures, including PayPal, SpaceX, Tesla, and SolarCity.
The book examines Musk's unique personality, his insatiable drive, and his ability to thrive through hardship.
It also explores the broader context of American innovation and the challenges of global competition, positioning Musk as a contemporary amalgam of legendary inventors and industrialists like Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, and Steve Jobs.
Biblical
Rob Halford
In 'Biblical: Rob Halford's Heavy Metal Scriptures', Halford shares his opinions, memories, and anecdotes about every aspect of rock and roll, from tours and tattoos to riffs and riders.
The book is structured around a biblical theme, offering a unique perspective on the history and culture of heavy metal.
It serves as both an encyclopedia and a manifesto, providing readers with a behind-the-scenes look at the music industry.
Four Thousand Weeks
Time Management for Mortals
Oliver Burkeman
In 'Four Thousand Weeks', Oliver Burkeman offers a contrarian approach to time management by focusing on the finite nature of human life.
Assuming an average lifespan of 80 years, the book calculates that we have approximately 4,000 weeks to live.
Burkeman argues against the modern fixation on productivity and efficiency, instead advocating for embracing the limits of time and prioritizing what truly matters.
The book draws on insights from ancient and contemporary philosophers, psychologists, and spiritual teachers to help readers construct a more meaningful life by accepting and working within the constraints of time.
It addresses issues such as the efficiency trap, the pitfalls of convenience culture, and the importance of living in the present while acknowledging the unpredictability of the future.
The War of Art
Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles
Steven Pressfield
In 'The War of Art', Steven Pressfield identifies the internal force of 'Resistance' that hinders creative endeavors.
The book is divided into three sections: 'Resistance: Defining the Enemy', 'Combating Resistance: Turning Pro', and a final section that discusses the role of the muses and the battle between the Self and the Ego. Pressfield provides practical advice on recognizing and overcoming resistance, emphasizing the importance of professionalism, discipline, and continuous work in achieving creative success.
Why We're Polarized
Howard W. French
Antonio M. Jaime
Luis Miller
Ezra Klein
In 'Why We're Polarized,' Ezra Klein argues that America’s political system is polarizing due to the merging of partisan identities with racial, religious, geographic, ideological, and cultural identities.
The book explores how these merged identities have led to a dysfunctional political system and traces the feedback loops between polarized political identities and institutions.
Klein also discusses the role of media and psychological factors in exacerbating polarization, providing a comprehensive analysis of the current state of American politics.
Leo Tolstoy's works
null
Leo Tolstoy
Leo Tolstoy's works are renowned for their psychological depth, realism, and exploration of moral and philosophical themes.
His novels, such as "War and Peace" and "Anna Karenina," are considered masterpieces of world literature.
Tolstoy's writing often delves into the complexities of human relationships, the search for meaning, and the impact of social and historical forces on individual lives.
His profound insights into the human condition and his masterful storytelling have earned him a place among the greatest novelists of all time.
His works continue to be studied and appreciated for their literary merit and enduring relevance.
Cracked
Putting Broken Lives Together Again
Drew Pinsky
In this book, Dr. Drew Pinsky shares intimate and often shocking stories of his patients struggling with emotional trauma, sexual abuse, and various forms of chemical addiction.
Pinsky immerses himself passionately in his work, providing a unique look into the world of addiction and recovery.
The book exposes the true scope and severity of addiction, a nationwide epidemic, through powerful vignettes and personal insights from Pinsky's decades of treating addiction.
More Than Words
How to Think About Writing in the Age of AI
John Warner
In 'More Than Words', John Warner argues that generative AI programs like ChatGPT should not replace human writing.
He posits that writing is a process of thinking and feeling, essential to human communication and self-expression.
Warner critiques the current state of writing instruction, suggesting that many assignments can be done by machines and do not challenge students to engage in the real work of writing.
The book calls for a reevaluation of our relationship with writing in the age of AI, emphasizing the unique value of human writing as a creative and embodied process.
Confess
Rob Halford
The dead ladies project
Jessa Crispin
In 'The Dead Ladies Project', Jessa Crispin embarks on a journey to find inspiration and connection by retracing the steps of influential figures like William James, Rebecca West, and Igor Stravinsky.
The book blends personal narrative with literary analysis, offering a unique perspective on identity, creativity, and the search for meaning.
Leadership In Turbulent Times
Doris Kearns Goodwin
In this book, Doris Kearns Goodwin examines the leadership skills of four U.S.
presidents through their experiences during significant crises.
The book is organized into three parts: the early days and ambitions of each president, their overcoming of significant early obstacles, and their leadership strategies during their presidencies.
Goodwin delves into how each president—Lincoln during the Emancipation Proclamation, Theodore Roosevelt during the coal strike, Franklin Roosevelt during his first 100 days, and Lyndon Johnson during the Civil Rights Act—demonstrated unique leadership qualities that enabled them to surmount challenges and make significant impacts on the nation.
Band People
Band People
Franz Nicolet
Woke, Inc.
Vivek Ramaswamy
In this book, Vivek Ramaswamy critiques the modern woke-industrial complex, arguing that it divides people by mixing morality with consumerism.
He reveals how America’s elites exploit innermost insecurities by selling cheap social causes and skin-deep identities.
The book begins as a critique of stakeholder capitalism and ends with an exploration of what it means to be an American today, offering a path forward that promotes unity and a more free and prosperous society.
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.
The Rose That Grew From Concrete
Tupac Shakur
This book offers a glimpse into Tupac's sensitive side through his poetry, which explores themes of love, social justice, and personal growth.
Written during his teenage years, these poems provide insight into his complex thoughts and emotions.
They Call Me Supermensch: A Backstage Pass to the Amazing Worlds of Film, Food, and Rock'n'Roll
Shep Gordon
In this engaging memoir, Shep Gordon recounts his life from humble beginnings to becoming a respected figure in show business.
He shares stories of working with icons like Alice Cooper, Jimi Hendrix, and Groucho Marx, and is credited with inventing the concept of the celebrity chef.
The book provides a humorous and heartfelt account of his adventures in music, film, and food.
Tank Sinatra's Works
Tank Sinatra's Works
Tank Sinatra
Joshua St. Pierre's book on cheap talk
Joshua St. Pierre's book on cheap talk
Joshua St. Pierre
John Steinbeck's works
null
John Steinbeck
John Steinbeck's novels are known for their social realism, exploration of themes of poverty, social injustice, and the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity.
His works, such as "The Grapes of Wrath" and "Of Mice and Men," are considered classics of American literature.
Steinbeck's vivid portrayal of characters and his ability to evoke empathy for the marginalized have earned him a place among the most influential writers of the 20th century.
His works continue to be studied and appreciated for their literary merit and enduring relevance.
Steinbeck's novels offer valuable insights into the social and economic conditions of his time.
Can I Say: Living Large, Cheating Death, and Drums, Drums, Drums
Gavin Edwards
Travis Barker
In this memoir, Travis Barker shares stories about his rise to fame with Blink-182, his personal struggles with addiction, and his recovery from a near-fatal plane crash.
The book offers insights into his life as a musician, father, and survivor, reflecting on themes of rock stardom, fatherhood, death, loss, and redemption.
Teaching As a Subversive Activity
Charles Weingartner
Neil Postman
Notable Works of Malcolm Gladwell
A Collection of Influential Books
Malcolm Gladwell
Malcolm Gladwell is celebrated for books like *The Tipping Point*, *Blink*, *Outliers*, *David and Goliath*, *Talking to Strangers*, and *The Bomber Mafia*.
His writing often delves into how small actions can lead to significant changes and how societal norms influence individual success and interactions.
Nikolai's Memoirs
Nikolai
No specific information available.
Robert Greene's Notable Works
A Collection of Influential Books on Power and Strategy
Robert Greene
Robert Greene is celebrated for his insightful books on power dynamics, strategic thinking, and human nature.
His notable works include 'The 48 Laws of Power', 'The Art of Seduction', 'The 33 Strategies of War', 'The 50th Law', 'Mastery', and 'The Laws of Human Nature'.
These books offer practical advice and historical examples to navigate complex social landscapes and achieve personal mastery.
Kurt Vonnegut's Works
A Collection of Notable Novels and Essays
Kurt Vonnegut
Kurt Vonnegut's works are renowned for their satirical and imaginative exploration of human society, technology, and the consequences of war.
His novels, such as 'Slaughterhouse-Five', 'Cat's Cradle', and 'Player Piano', are celebrated for their unique blend of humor, science fiction, and social commentary.
Vonnegut's writing often critiques modern society while maintaining a deep empathy for humanity.
No book found
Dov Charney
Dov Charney is a prominent figure in the fashion industry, having founded American Apparel and later Los Angeles Apparel.
However, there is no record of him publishing a book titled 'Dove Charney's Works'.
Lane Baton's Works
Lane Baton
No information available.
John Hay's Works
Biographies and Literary Contributions
John Milton Hay
John Hay was a prominent figure in American politics and literature.
He co-authored a ten-volume biography of Abraham Lincoln with John George Nicolay, which significantly shaped Lincoln's historical image.
Hay's writings also include poetry and other literary works.
White Line Fever
The Autobiography
Lemmy Kilmister
Janiss Garza
White Line Fever is Lemmy Kilmister's autobiography, offering a raw and entertaining account of his life as the frontman of Motörhead.
The book is filled with stories of excess, humor, and insights into the music industry.
It captures Lemmy's unapologetic spirit and his enduring love for rock 'n' roll.
Austin Kleon joins Ryan to talk about unleashing creative energy, the power of hobbies, and why he believes we’ve been trained to be machine-like in today’s world. Austin talks about the driving force behind ambition, the culture of "cheap talk," and much more.
Austin Kleon is a writer, author, artist, speaker, and blogger. He is most known for his five New York Times bestselling books Steal Like An Artist:10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative, Show Your Work!, Keep Going, Steal Like An Artist Journal, and Newspaper Blackout.
You can follow his work at austinkleon.com, Instagram @austinkleon, and Twitter @austinkleon.
📚 Grab signed copies of Austin Kleon’s books, Steal Like An Artist:10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative, Show Your Work!, Keep Going, at The Painted Porch: https://www.thepaintedporch.com/
🎥 Check out Austin Kleon's previous episode with Ryan Holiday: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cniB5Wa0jV0
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