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
49 snips
Nov 7, 2025 • 10min
This Is The Point of Philosophy | You're Wasting Your Life
Explore the true purpose of philosophy and how Stoicism aims to improve lives. Discover practical ways to apply ancient wisdom in modern settings. Learn about breaking big goals into manageable steps and the importance of daily discipline. Ryan highlights reflection practices from Stoic thinkers to enhance personal growth. The discussion emphasizes staying focused on the process rather than outcomes, urging listeners to act now and make the most of their lives.
52 snips
Nov 6, 2025 • 28min
BONUS | Ryan Holiday Curates a Reading List for Nick Thompson
In this engaging discussion, Nick Thompson, the CEO of The Atlantic and author of The Running Ground, shares his passion for literature. He and Ryan Holiday dive into fascinating book recommendations, from the harrowing true story of Tunnel 29 to Seneca's moral dilemmas with Nero. They explore Kafka's influence on parenting and Murakami's insights on running and writing. The duo also reflects on powerful memoirs dealing with death and the impactful role of journalists. This chat is a treasure trove for book lovers and aspiring writers alike!
68 snips
Nov 6, 2025 • 14min
Take This Seriously | Ask Daily Stoic
Ryan Holiday delves into the transformative power of Stoicism, emphasizing its role in building strong character. He introduces an exciting course on Stoicism, perfect for those eager to deepen their understanding. Listeners learn about GiveWell’s effective donation strategies and how to teach Stoic virtues to children. The conversation touches on applying Stoic principles to community governance and preparing for challenges like the Athens Marathon. The session culminates in audience interactions and Ryan's heartfelt thanks for listener support.
62 snips
Nov 5, 2025 • 38min
Persuasion Expert: "You Can Manipulate Yourself Into Doing Hard Things" | Jay Heinrichs (PT. 1)
Jay Heinrichs, a bestselling author and rhetoric expert, shares intriguing insights on self-persuasion as a tool for personal change. He explains how we often underestimate our ability to influence ourselves and discusses Marcus Aurelius's rhetorical strategies for mindset shifts. Heinrichs emphasizes that reframing goals can replace the need for harsh discipline. He illustrates these concepts using relatable examples like flossing and napping, and highlights how tiny beginnings can lead to significant changes in identity and habits.
68 snips
Nov 5, 2025 • 3min
This Is Not What We Fight For
Explore the proactive nature of Stoics, who were anything but passive thinkers. Dive into how even great minds like Seneca sometimes chased misguided ambitions. Ryan Holiday highlights the tragic side of relentless striving, emphasizing that determination can turn into a flaw. Discover the wisdom in knowing when to stop and what truly matters, steering clear of the insatiable desire for more. This lively discussion redefines what it means to fight for meaningful goals.
44 snips
Nov 4, 2025 • 9min
When The Statues Still Had Paint On Them | The Real Power You Have
Dive into the vivid world of ancient Greece and Rome, where history is alive and colorful, not just dusty relics. Explore how today's choices shape our future and the distinction between fleeting external power and the enduring strength of inner virtue. Discover insights from Stoic thinkers like Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius, who emphasize self-mastery as the ultimate freedom. Reflect on what power you pursue: the external or the profound control within yourself. This thought-provoking discussion inspires a deeper understanding of our present.
113 snips
Nov 3, 2025 • 7min
This is How To Be Smart (Or At Least Not Dumb) | Following The Doctor's Orders
Discover the balance between being smart and avoiding folly. Learn how practical wisdom can help us sidestep fads and grifters. Embrace hardship like a doctor's orders—each challenge is a lesson designed to strengthen us. Reflect on classic Stoic philosophy, particularly insights from Marcus Aurelius, to transform obstacles into opportunities for growth. Tune in for inspiration to cultivate resilience and avoid the traps of superficiality.
148 snips
Nov 2, 2025 • 17min
Everything (And I Really Mean Everything) Is A Chance To Do This
The discussion dives into the profound choices we face: bravery versus fear, selfishness versus selflessness. Insights on interpreting Marcus Aurelius highlight using obstacles not just for success but for cultivating moral character. The podcast explores the four cardinal virtues of Stoicism—courage, discipline, justice, and wisdom. Personal anecdotes illustrate how hardships serve as tests of character. Ryan emphasizes that virtue is a craft to be practiced, guiding us in responding to life's unpredictability.
60 snips
Nov 1, 2025 • 50min
What Did The Stoics Get WRONG? | Nick Thompson (CEO of The Atlantic)
Nick Thompson, CEO of The Atlantic and competitive ultrarunner, dives deep into the synergy between running and Stoicism. He explores how daily disciplines in both running and Stoic philosophy can drive personal breakthroughs. The conversation touches on Marcus Aurelius's fateful decision regarding Commodus, the erosion of expertise in modern society, and the importance of active engagement versus passive acceptance. With insights on adapting in a rapidly changing world, Thompson emphasizes the balance between pushing limits and fostering understanding in journalism.
294 snips
Oct 31, 2025 • 21min
This is the Deads Day | Harsh Truths From The Stoics
Exploring the intersection of Halloween and Día de los Muertos, the discussion delves into how rituals help us confront mortality. Key Stoic principles highlight the importance of humility and the power of saying no, while emphasizing the need for self-acceptance and focusing on what we can control. The conversation encourages readers to seek wisdom through deep reading and journaling, while reminding us to avoid distractions and nurture our growth through challenges. Ultimately, it's about valuing time and integrity over external approval.
