
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.Listen to The Daily Stoic on the Wondery App or wherever you listen to your podcasts. You can listen early and ad-free on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial by visiting wondery.com/links/the-daily-stoic/ now.
Latest episodes

16 snips
Jun 8, 2025 • 15min
One Day Can Be A Whole Life | Ryan Holiday
Discover how a chaotic day with kids can transform into unexpected moments of joy. Through personal anecdotes, the discussion highlights the value of savoring everyday experiences. Learn to embrace the present while navigating life's uncertainties, emphasizing positivity and Stoic philosophy. Enjoy insights on parenting inspired by Stoic teachings and the art of balancing personal and professional life, all while remembering the little things that make each day meaningful.

67 snips
Jun 7, 2025 • 46min
If They Control Your Attention, They Control YOU | Chris Hayes (PT. 2)
Chris Hayes, Emmy Award-winning host and bestselling author, delves into the dark side of our attention-driven society. He discusses how virtue signaling has morphed into vice signaling, exposing the unraveling ethics in journalism. The dangers of misinformation are highlighted as Hayes critiques the superficiality of modern media consumption. He also addresses the cognitive decline caused by digital distractions and the shifting boundaries of acceptable behavior in politics, prompting listeners to reflect on personal ethics versus public expectations.

260 snips
Jun 6, 2025 • 35min
Why Are You Surprised? | 12 Stoic Strategies on How To Stop Caring What People Think
Explore the essence of Stoic philosophy through the lens of historical figures like Diogenes and Cato, who embodied authenticity against societal judgment. Discover a woman's inspiring journey into nursing, defying parental expectations. Reflect on a Roman emperor's insights into criticism and the fleeting nature of fame, emphasizing the importance of focusing on quality work. Learn to value opinions wisely and distinguish between what is within your control and what isn’t, fostering personal growth and resilience.

73 snips
Jun 5, 2025 • 12min
Do Not Let This Miracle Go To Waste | Ask Daily Stoic
Explore the extraordinary odds of existence and the miracle of life itself! Learn to embrace the present through the Stoic principle of Memento Mori, encouraging each of us to make meaningful choices. Dive into the pitfalls of superficial discussions in media and the vital need for critical thinking. Navigate parenting in a digital world with Stoic wisdom, shaping our children's futures. Lastly, analyze the stark differences between philosophers like Marcus Aurelius and Nero, warning against the perils of personality-driven power in modern politics.

12 snips
Jun 4, 2025 • 2min
This Is Why We Do It
Discover how Stoic philosophers like Cleanthes and Socrates embraced discomfort to build resilience. Learn about Marcus Aurelius's preference for a hard mattress and Seneca's regular practice of poverty. These historical figures challenge us to confront life's adversities head-on, demonstrating that enduring discomfort can lead to greater strength and fortitude.

128 snips
Jun 4, 2025 • 39min
If They Control Your Attention, They Control YOU | Chris Hayes (PT. 1)
Chris Hayes, Emmy Award-winning host of All In with Chris Hayes and bestselling author, discusses the alarming ways media influences our attention in the digital age. He uncovers how misinformation can prey on our desires, complicating our understanding of reality. The conversation dives deep into the responsibilities of media, the intricate relationship between technology and human creativity, and the ongoing challenges of maintaining mental health amidst a saturated information landscape. Reflecting on history, Hayes emphasizes the need for philosophical insights in navigating these modern dilemmas.

28 snips
Jun 3, 2025 • 8min
Who Was The Tough One? | Role Models
Discover the untold stories of Stoic women and the challenges they faced in a patriarchal society. Explore the hidden strength of figures like Marcus Aurelius and his wife Faustina, and how personal mentors shape our character. Reflect on the themes of heritage and legacy, considering the influential figures that inspire you. This insightful conversation encourages listeners to ponder the legacies they want to leave behind.

134 snips
Jun 2, 2025 • 11min
This Is How You Become Well-Read | Plato's View
Explore the deep value of reading beyond just surface-level understanding, inspired by thinkers like Marcus Aurelius and Plato. Discover how a shift in perspective, akin to astronauts witnessing Earth from space, reveals the interconnectedness of humanity. The discussion emphasizes the transformative power of travel and humility in enhancing our appreciation for life and others. Dive into the wisdom of Stoicism to enrich your experiences and broaden your outlook on the world.

338 snips
Jun 1, 2025 • 28min
When Everything Feels Unpredictable, Hold Onto This
Explore the timeless wisdom of Stoicism to navigate chaos in personal and professional lives. Discover how obstacles can be reframed as opportunities for resilience and growth. Learn the importance of self-reflection, proactive decision-making, and embracing uncertainty. Understand how adaptability can empower you to face life's challenges, while acknowledging your own endurance fosters confidence for the future.

236 snips
May 31, 2025 • 52min
The Stoic’s Playbook For INSTANT Charisma | Vanessa Van Edwards (PT. 2)
Vanessa Van Edwards, bestselling author and body language expert, dives into the secrets of instant charisma. She explains how charisma begins with energy and presence, before you even speak. Learn to navigate social dynamics, master the art of saying no, and the importance of authenticity in communication. Vanessa also discusses historical examples of pivotal conversations that sparked change, plus the significance of personal boundaries in forging genuine connections. With practical tips, she equips listeners to engage confidently in any social setting.