
The Daily Stoic
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.
Latest episodes

Jul 9, 2025 • 3min
It Does Make Sense
The discussion brings to light how people's beliefs and actions can seem baffling but often make sense from their perspective. It emphasizes the power of empathy and understanding in navigating a complex world. Instead of judgment, it advocates for compassion by recognizing that everyone has unique experiences shaping their views. The conversation prompts listeners to reflect on how to engage more thoughtfully with differing opinions.

42 snips
Jul 9, 2025 • 1h 8min
Your Worldview Is Only as Wide as Your Curiosity | Chet Garner
Chet Garner, the creator and host of the Emmy-winning travel show 'The Daytripper,' joins the conversation to share insights on expanding your worldview through travel. They emphasize how local adventures can spark curiosity and broaden perspectives. Chet recounts humorous and nostalgic moments from his travels, discussing the cultural richness of Texas. They delve into the significance of understanding diverse cultures and the importance of teaching kids about history's complexities. Laughter and anecdotes make this a lighthearted exploration of adventure.

109 snips
Jul 8, 2025 • 8min
How The Powerless Become Powerful | Don't Look For The Third Thing
Explore how personal empowerment can transform feelings of powerlessness into strength. Discover the dynamic relationship between Emperor Hadrian and a former slave philosopher, showcasing unexpected wisdom. Delve into the importance of selfless goodness with insights from Marcus Aurelius, emphasizing the joy of performing good deeds without the desire for recognition. This enlightening discussion sheds light on self-command and the practical application of Stoic philosophy in everyday life.

49 snips
Jul 7, 2025 • 9min
Forget Your Dreams. Do This Instead. | Our Duty To Learn
Explore the transformative ideas of Epictetus, who taught that true fulfillment comes from accepting life as it is. Emphasis is placed on learning practical skills over chasing dreams. Discover how classic literature can provide moral lessons for personal growth. The discussion highlights the importance of applying knowledge meaningfully and using it as a tool for self-improvement. Embrace gratitude and perseverance as essential virtues in overcoming challenges. Dive into the richness of Stoic philosophy for a more enriched life.

144 snips
Jul 6, 2025 • 19min
The 3-Step Formula for Difficult Conversations
Jefferson Fisher, a Texas board-certified personal injury attorney and communication expert, shares his insights on handling tough conversations. He outlines a practical 3-step formula for effective dialogue, emphasizing the importance of active listening and empathy. Fisher tackles the challenges of communicating with difficult people, drawing on Stoic principles. He also discusses balancing assertiveness with compassion, explaining how to manage belittling remarks by understanding their underlying motivations. This conversation is packed with strategies to empower listeners in conflict situations.

337 snips
Jul 5, 2025 • 41min
You’re Not Wasting Time, You’re Wasting Your Life | Rutger Bregman (PT. 2)
Join historian and bestselling author Rutger Bregman as he challenges the conventional pursuit of success. He discusses how chasing the wrong goals can lead to a wasted life and emphasizes the importance of realigning our work with meaningful impact. Bregman argues for the necessity of taking action on neglected global issues like health crises and climate change. With a framework of moral ambition, he inspires listeners to engage deeply in activism and embrace altruism, fostering a culture of true societal change.

219 snips
Jul 4, 2025 • 25min
There Is No Freedom Without This (or Rather, Without These) | 8 Stoic Strategies To Beat Procrastination
Explore how Stoic principles empower us to conquer procrastination through discipline and self-awareness. Discover the vital link between freedom and virtue, urging us to uphold moral integrity. Learn practical strategies for routine building and maintaining focus that propel personal growth. Delve into the urgency of living fully, emphasizing the value of striving for personal excellence. Finally, grapple with the balance between effort and perfectionism, encouraging a bold commitment to tasks without the fear of failure.

53 snips
Jul 3, 2025 • 11min
This Too Is Always Yours (And Can’t Be Taken) | Ask Daily Stoic
Discover what truly belongs to you, regardless of external circumstances. Embrace the present moment and cultivate emotional well-being through practical Stoic insights. Explore the essential qualities of resilient leadership and the balance between ambition and contentment. Delve into the power of intrinsic motivation and the transformative effects of mentorship, emphasizing personal pride over external validation. This journey through Stoicism offers a refreshing perspective on life’s challenges and personal growth.

84 snips
Jul 2, 2025 • 5min
This Is How The Impossible Became Possible
Discover the remarkable journey of Epictetus, from slavery to becoming a legendary philosopher. Learn how his teachings shaped Marcus Aurelius and continue to inspire resilience today. This podcast dives deep into the transformative power of Stoic philosophy, focusing on personal mastery and understanding what we can control. Embrace practical insights to apply these timeless lessons in your life and inspire real change all around you.

258 snips
Jul 2, 2025 • 46min
You’re Not Wasting Time, You’re Wasting Your Life | Rutger Bregman (PT. 1)
Rutger Bregman, a Dutch historian and bestselling author, delves into the deeper meaning of work and success. He challenges the value of prestigious careers that may offer little societal benefit. Bregman highlights the significance of moral ambition and how true impactful work often defies societal norms. Through historical examples, he illustrates how individual actions can lead to massive change, emphasizing that what truly matters is contributing to the greater good, not just climbing the corporate ladder.