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
Jan 22, 2026 • 16min
Be Strict with Yourself, Tolerant with Others | Ask Daily Stoic
Explore the Stoic principle of being strict with oneself while remaining tolerant toward others. Discover how philosophy serves as a practical guide for life choices, emphasizing classical virtues like courage and wisdom. Dive into the teachings of contemporary figures like General Mattis, who exemplify Stoic restraint and honor. Learn how to seek out inspiring leaders from history when modern examples fail to meet expectations, reinforcing that wisdom is a habit cultivated through experience and thoughtful choices.
53 snips
Jan 21, 2026 • 8min
Don’t Be a Broken Parable
James Romm, a classical scholar and author known for his insights on Seneca and Roman history, delves into the complexities of moral compromise at Nero's court. He discusses Seneca's regret over his servitude and the troubling choices driven by ambition. The conversation highlights when philosophers must act versus when they risk moral failure, and the dangers of gradual corruption. They explore the contrasting legacies of Marcus Aurelius and Nero, shedding light on the fine line between power and enslavement.
12 snips
Jan 21, 2026 • 57min
The Stoic Question David Mamet Engraved on His Watch
David Mamet, a Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright and screenwriter, shares his insights on craft and discipline. He emphasizes that courage is more vital than talent, revealing that simply delivering lines can be the hardest challenge. Mamet discusses the importance of restraint in performance, the value of simplicity, and how audience feedback sharpens artistic expression. He also explores Stoicism, sharing the question 'What hinders you?' engraved on his watch, urging listeners to confront their obstacles to enhance their creativity and authenticity.
28 snips
Jan 20, 2026 • 8min
These Days You Need Double What It Takes | Reignite Your Thoughts
Modern life requires us to tap into extra resilience, as Ryan Holiday discusses the philosophies of Marcus Aurelius. He emphasizes the importance of pushing through exhaustion and finding deeper reserves when challenges arise. The theme of recommitment after failure is crucial, reminding us that setbacks are not final. Holiday encourages listeners to reignite their thoughts and principles, highlighting that virtue can still be pursued despite life's demands.
29 snips
Jan 19, 2026 • 15min
We Are Falling Short | How George Raveling Was Given the “I Have a Dream” Speech
George Raveling, a former college basketball coach and author, shares his extraordinary experience at the 1963 March on Washington, where he secured Martin Luther King Jr.'s iconic 'I Have a Dream' speech. He reveals how King's ad-libbed passage was inspired by Mahalia Jackson's nudge. Raveling also recounts the secrecy surrounding the original speech, which he hid for decades, and discusses the public's reaction after its unveiling. His plans to display the speech at the National Museum are also highlighted.
141 snips
Jan 18, 2026 • 23min
How Many of These 7 Stoic Traits Do You Have?
Explore seven essential Stoic traits that shaped leaders like Marcus Aurelius. Discover the importance of practical preparation and sound judgment in leadership. Dive into the balance of self-discipline and kindness toward others. Learn how effective listening and modest communication can enhance relationships. Reflect on Stoic bravery as a commitment to justice rather than personal glory. Finally, understand how maintaining character and virtue surpasses the pursuit of power.
98 snips
Jan 17, 2026 • 1h 16min
Stop Waiting To Be Chosen | Adam Skolnick
Adam Skolnick, a writer known for his work with David Goggins and his new novel American Tiger, shares his journey through self-doubt and creativity. He discusses the inspiration behind his novel, touching on underreported stories and unique experiences that shaped his writing. Adam also highlights the importance of seizing opportunities rather than waiting for validation. A fascinating conversation unfolds about the motivations behind extreme pursuits and the impact of environmental activism, making for an engaging and insightful listen.
539 snips
Jan 16, 2026 • 19min
No, Not Later. Now. | How To Read Like A PRO
Discover why taking action now is crucial, as procrastination only complicates tasks. Explore the art of reading: Ryan shares techniques like carrying a book everywhere and annotating margins. He highlights the value of long-form books over fleeting news for true understanding. Insights emerge from rereading classics and engaging with popular literature. Plus, learn to curate a diverse reading list and embrace bookstores for serendipitous finds. Ultimately, the focus is on reading for wisdom and meaningful dialogue with authors.
30 snips
Jan 15, 2026 • 6min
BONUS | Self-Awareness vs. Self-Consciousness: Do You Know the Difference?
In this insightful discussion, high-performance coach Steve Magness explores the crucial distinction between self-awareness and self-consciousness. He highlights how genuine self-awareness, driven by curiosity, empowers decision-making, while self-consciousness, influenced by fear of judgment, hampers performance. The conversation touches on how pressure can lead to overthinking, causing even seasoned performers to falter. Magness emphasizes the dangers of scrutinizing automatic skills, which can disrupt fluidity in execution.
88 snips
Jan 15, 2026 • 15min
This Is An Important Time in Your Life | How Do You Do Hard Things When Life Is Already Hard?
Discover the vital importance of solitude as Ryan Holiday explores how Marcus Aurelius used quiet reflection for creativity and leadership. He contrasts ancient practices with modern life’s distractions. The conversation dives into Stoicism as a lifelong journey, while Ryan offers advice on overcoming overthinking and embracing physical discipline through martial arts. Additionally, he discusses preparing for challenges by training during easier times, emphasizing that doing hard things builds resilience against life’s inevitable hardships.
