The Daily Stoic Ask Daily Stoic: Ryan and Brett McKay Talk Parenting, Living Through History, and Modern Manliness
Jun 20, 2020
In this discussion, Brett McKay, founder of The Art of Manliness and expert in men's lifestyle, shares his insights on parenting during the pandemic. He emphasizes Stoic principles like justice and resilience as vital tools for modern parents. The conversation touches on evolving notions of manliness, the importance of setting a good example, and the role of literature in teaching children valuable life lessons. They also reflect on the societal shifts reshaping masculinity and the need for open dialogues about values with the next generation.
38:05
Living Through History
- The world is currently experiencing a convergence of systemic issues with lasting impacts.
- This realization evokes a sense of disorientation and the understanding that history isn't always glamorous to live through.
The Road's Impact
- Ryan Holiday reflects on rereading Cormac McCarthy's "The Road" during the pandemic.
- The book's profound message of maintaining hope resonated deeply, especially as a father.
Teaching Stoicism to Kids
- Explain complex topics simply to children, using relatable examples.
- Reinforce lessons through repetition and integrate them into everyday conversations.
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Intro
00:00 • 4min
Embracing Stoic Wisdom in Parenting and Modern Manliness
04:12 • 2min
Parenting Principles in Uncertain Times
06:06 • 3min
War Stories and Parenting Wisdom
08:47 • 13min
Evolving Manliness: Conversations on Modern Masculinity
21:49 • 8min
Societal Shifts and Masculinity
30:05 • 11min
Leading by Example: The Art of Stoic Parenting
40:59 • 2min
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.
The Old Man and the Sea
Ernest Hemingway
The novella tells the story of Santiago, an old Cuban fisherman who has gone 84 days without catching a fish.
Determined to break his unlucky streak, Santiago ventures far into the Gulf Stream, where he hooks a giant marlin.
Over the course of three days, he battles the marlin, showing respect and admiration for the fish.
Despite eventually killing the marlin, Santiago's catch is devoured by sharks on his journey back to shore.
The story highlights Santiago's endurance, his deep connection with nature, and the themes of struggle, dignity, and the indomitable human spirit.
The Road
Tom Stechschulte
Cormac McCarthy
The Road is set in a world that has been devastated by an unspecified cataclysmic event, resulting in the extinction of nearly all life on Earth.
The story follows an unnamed father and his young son as they travel south along the road, carrying their meager possessions and a pistol with only two bullets.
The father, suffering from a worsening respiratory condition, is determined to protect his son from the dangers of their new world, including cannibalistic marauders.
Along their journey, they encounter various survivors, some of whom are cruel and others who show kindness.
The novel explores themes of love, survival, and the preservation of humanity in a world devoid of hope.
Ultimately, the father's health fails, and he dies, but not before ensuring his son's safety with a new family who may offer a chance for a better future.
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.
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.
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.
John Wooden's Family Rules
Not Available
John Wooden
John Wooden was renowned for his Pyramid of Success and life principles, which emphasize integrity, hard work, and personal growth.
His teachings often focus on character development and achieving success through consistent effort and moral values.
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.
Cato’s writings
Cato’s writings
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Cato the Younger
Cato the Younger's writings, though much of them are lost to history, offer valuable insights into his Stoic philosophy and his political views.
His strong adherence to traditional Roman values and his opposition to Julius Caesar made him a significant figure in Roman history.
While his extant writings are limited, they reveal a man of strong moral principles and unwavering commitment to his beliefs.
His legacy continues to inspire those who value integrity and steadfastness in the face of adversity.
Studying his surviving works provides a glimpse into the mind of a prominent Stoic figure and his impact on Roman politics.
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.
Seneca: Epistles
Ad Lucilium Epistulae Morales
Seneca (Lucius Annaeus Seneca)
The Epistles of Seneca, collected in Volumes IV–VI of the Loeb Classical Library, offer a comprehensive insight into Stoic philosophy through personal and ethical reflections.
These letters, written in a relaxed style, explore various moral questions and personal experiences, providing a rich source of Stoic wisdom.
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.
Roman Honor
The Fire in the Bones
Carlin Barton
Carlin A. Barton's 'Roman Honor: The Fire in the Bones' delves into the complex emotional and spiritual life of ancient Romans, examining how sentiments of honor influenced their sense of self and society.
The book draws from both ancient writings and contemporary theories to provide a nuanced understanding of Roman history and its relevance to modern codes of honor.
The art of manliness
Brett McKay
This book provides practical advice on survival skills, social skills, and character development, drawing from classic gentlemen like Benjamin Franklin and Theodore Roosevelt.
It covers topics such as shaving, being a perfect houseguest, fighting like a gentleman, and raising resilient kids.
The spartan way
Joe De Sena
In 'The Spartan Way', Joe De Sena outlines a lifestyle based on the ten Spartan Core Virtues, which include self-awareness, commitment, passion, and grit.
The book aims to help readers overcome obstacles and achieve peak performance in life by adopting these timeless principles.
It provides mental conditioning to boost workout routines and life approaches, focusing on eliminating excuses and achieving goals.
No book found with this title
Tom Nichols
Tom Nichols has written about Donald Trump's masculinity in articles, but there is no book with this title.
Nichols is a prominent author and commentator on political and international affairs.
Cicero's Philosophical Works
A Collection of His Major Philosophical Treatises
Marcus Tullius Cicero
Cicero's philosophical writings introduced Latin audiences to the ideas of the Stoics, Epicureans, and other schools of the post-Aristotelian period.
His works, such as 'De Re Publica' and 'De Legibus', focus on political philosophy and the creation of a Latin philosophical vocabulary.
Cicero's philosophy emphasizes skepticism and critical inquiry, challenging dogmatic approaches to knowledge.
Eisenhower's Decision Matrix
A Concept for Prioritization
Dwight D. Eisenhower
The Eisenhower Decision Matrix is a time management framework that helps individuals prioritize tasks by categorizing them into four quadrants based on their urgency and importance.
It was popularized by Stephen Covey in 'The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People' and is widely used for personal and professional productivity.
To Be or To Do
To Be or To Do
A Philosophical Concept by John Boyd
John Boyd
John Boyd's concept of 'To Be or To Do' reflects his philosophy on life choices, where individuals must decide between striving for personal success or contributing meaningfully to society.
This concept is central to his broader strategic and philosophical ideas.
The Polar Bear Expedition
James Carl Nelson
The Polar Bear Expedition recounts the story of 5,000 American soldiers who fought against the Red Army in northern Russia during the Russian Civil War. The book provides a detailed and gripping narrative of this lesser-known chapter in American history.
Nelson draws on firsthand accounts to paint a vivid picture of the harsh conditions and heroic efforts of the soldiers involved.
The Warrior Monk Philosophy of Trainer Cus D'Amato
The 5 Strategies That Turned Mike Tyson Into a World Champion
Brett McKay
This book delves into the strategic principles of Cus D'Amato, a renowned boxing trainer, who transformed Mike Tyson into a world champion.
It highlights D'Amato's approach to mental toughness, training routines, and overcoming fear, offering insights applicable beyond boxing.
The book outlines five key strategies that contributed to Tyson's success.
In today’s episode, Ryan and Brett McKay, founder of The Art of Manliness (https://www.artofmanliness.com/), talk about being a parent in the age of COVID-19, the changing definition of manliness, and more.
Sign up for The Stoic Parent, Daily Stoic’s newest course, today: http://dailystoic.com/parenting
Brett McKay is founder and editor-in-chief of The Art of Manliness, the massive men’s lifestyle website with over 10 million monthly page views. For over six years, Brett has published articles about how to be a strong, conscious, thoughtful man in the modern age. Brett lives in Oklahoma with his wife and children.
This episode is brought to you by LinkedIn Jobs. LinkedIn Jobs is the best platform for finding the right candidate to join your business. And right now, LinkedIn is helping companies like yours find the essential workers that they need in these trying times. Visit http://linkedin.com/stoic to post your healthcare or essential job for free, or to post another job for your business.
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