The Daily Stoic BONUS | The Book Ryan Holiday Keeps Coming Back To
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Dec 27, 2025 
In an engaging conversation with Shilo Brooks, CEO of the George W. Bush Presidential Center and host of the Old School podcast, Ryan Holiday reveals his deep affection for Walker Percy’s The Moviegoer. They discuss the protagonist Binx's quest for meaning amidst postwar consumerism and distractions like women and work. The dialogue highlights themes of existential emptiness and Percy's notion of 'everydayness.' Ryan also delves into the influences of Catholicism and Stoicism within the novel, offering a rich exploration of purpose.
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Bookstore Origin Story
- Ryan Holiday recounts owning and running The Painted Porch bookstore and how he recommends The Moviegoer often.
- He reread the book before appearing on Old School to discuss its Stoic themes and personal impact.
Treat Reading Like Work
- Treat reading like a job and schedule dedicated time to it rather than expecting it to happen accidentally.
- Carve consistent daily habits so reading becomes a disciplined part of life.
Reading Is Conversation With The Dead
- Ryan frames reading as conversing with the dead and learning from past minds to avoid painful trial-and-error.
- He credits Zeno's origin story to show books let you live multiple lives and gain wisdom quickly.
