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
27 snips
Nov 28, 2025 • 17min
Let Us Fulfill Our Obligation | 10,000 Pages That Will Change Your Life
The discussion kicks off with a heartfelt reminder to consider those still in need after the holidays. Stoic principles are invoked as a guide to our moral obligations to help others. A charity drive partnered with Feeding America aims to tackle hunger, inviting listeners to contribute. Ryan also dives into transformative reading, suggesting classics from Emerson to biographies of historical figures like Gandhi. The importance of understanding Stoic philosophy through epic literature, and modern insights on ambition and leadership round out the conversation.
26 snips
Nov 27, 2025 • 15min
BONUS | An Important Message About Grace & Forgiveness
Julia Baird, an Australian journalist and author known for her compelling works like Victoria: The Queen, joins to discuss the profound concepts of grace and forgiveness. She emphasizes that true grace is a challenging process requiring repeated efforts, not just polite gestures. The conversation highlights the limits of forgiveness, balancing self-protection and justice. Baird shares impactful stories, including one about Lincoln, and delves into restorative justice, illustrating how confronting painful truths can lead to healing and liberation.
90 snips
Nov 27, 2025 • 14min
Every Day Can Be A Thanksgiving | Ask Daily Stoic
Explore the essence of gratitude as a daily practice, embracing both joys and challenges. Discover how obstacles can become opportunities for personal growth. Learn the importance of giving back, as the host shares a fundraising initiative for families in need. Dive into the connection between Stoicism and parenting, with tips on managing responses to children's behaviors. Finally, gain insights into maintaining creative balance and the ongoing journey of work-life recalibration.
25 snips
Nov 26, 2025 • 3min
Honesty Without Tact is Cruelty
The discussion centers on the fine line between honesty and cruelty. Blunt truths can hurt, and the Stoics emphasized speaking hard truths while maintaining tact. They believed in the power of courage combined with grace. Empathy plays a crucial role in communication; it's not just about being honest but also about ensuring the message is delivered gently. The importance of speaking so that others can truly hear you is highlighted, reinforcing that kindness should accompany honesty.
53 snips
Nov 26, 2025 • 51min
You’re Addicted To The Illusion of Control | Sebastian Junger (PT. 1)
Joined by bestselling author and journalist Sebastian Junger, known for The Perfect Storm and the documentary Restrepo, this conversation dives deep into the dangers of smartphone addiction. Junger shares why he prefers a flip phone, highlighting how technology creates a false sense of control and amplifies anxiety. He reflects on his harrowing near-death experiences as a war reporter, the value of boredom in fostering creativity, and how embracing life's uncertainties can enrich our daily choices. Junger's insights challenge our perceptions of time, connection, and meaning.
75 snips
Nov 25, 2025 • 9min
We’ve Always Done This | Balance The Books Of Life Daily
Explore the timeless patterns of human behavior that echo through history, as Ryan Holiday draws insights from Marcus Aurelius. Discover how ancient wisdom applies to modern life, emphasizing the importance of reflective journaling as a Stoic practice. Learn about Seneca's metaphor of daily bookkeeping to assess life's progress. Ryan also shares the profound benefits of maintaining a personal journaling routine, illustrating its impact over time. Join in for a deep dive into balancing life's books daily!
96 snips
Nov 24, 2025 • 9min
We Are All Trying This | Train To Let Go Of What's Not Yours
Dive into the imperfections of Seneca, who, despite his struggles, offers valuable peer-to-peer wisdom. Discover the philosophy of treating attachments as breakable, which helps ease the pain of loss. Ryan highlights the ancient Roman reminder of mortality, encouraging humility in times of success. Regularly reflecting on the temporary nature of people and possessions enhances gratitude in our lives. Embrace Stoic teachings as a shared journey, learning to navigate life alongside these profound insights.
39 snips
Nov 23, 2025 • 1h 3min
The Philosopher Who Laughed in the Face of Kings
Inger Kuin, a scholar and author known for her biography on Diogenes, vividly portrays the life of the iconic philosopher who boldly challenged societal norms. The discussion delves into Diogenes' infamous encounters, including his legendary sunbathing moment with Alexander the Great, and his clever use of the 'dog' persona to symbolize authenticity. Kuin also explores how Diogenes' teachings, preserved through oral traditions and early writings, continue to influence modern thought, spotlighting his unapologetic lifestyle and philosophical daring.
93 snips
Nov 22, 2025 • 58min
The REAL Difference Between Stoics and Cynics | Cynicism Expert Inger Kuin (PT. 2)
Inger Kuin, an Associate Professor of Classics at the University of Virginia, explores the fascinating contrasts between Stoicism and Cynicism. They delve into Diogenes' legendary provocations and his rejection of societal norms. The discussion highlights how Stoics embrace order while Cynics embrace chaos, and the importance of critics in society today. Kuin also shares insights on how Diogenes' radical philosophy can inspire contemporary thought, challenging conventions and advocating for philosophical freedom.
208 snips
Nov 21, 2025 • 21min
Do This. It's Enough. | 7 Stoic Habits To Make You Wiser
Dive into the wisdom of Marcus Aurelius, who championed lifelong learning. Explore the idea that being good is enough through simple moral commands. Discover the power of asking questions to ignite curiosity, and the importance of listening more than talking. Learn how to organize thoughts with a 'second brain' and cut through the noise of information overload. Lastly, embrace the notion of being a perpetual student, ever ready to learn from both history and mistakes.
