

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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

62 snips
Jul 16, 2025 • 4min
Will You See What Everyone Else Missed?
Discover how Epictetus, a lesser-known Stoic philosopher, can transform your life if you delve into his teachings. Learn about his significant influence on notable figures like Marcus Aurelius. The podcast offers insight into a new guide designed for personal growth and self-reflection. Plus, there's an exciting opportunity for a live Q&A with Ryan Holiday, where he unpacks the relevance of Epictetus' philosophy in today's world. Don't miss out on using ancient wisdom for modern change!

86 snips
Jul 15, 2025 • 9min
Do You Have This Too? | Practice Gentleness Instead of Anger
Dive into the intriguing blend of resilience and affection in Stoic philosophy. Discover how figures like Marcus Aurelius showed that toughness doesn’t exclude warmth. Explore the transformative power of kindness and gentle responses over anger, and learn practical ways to cultivate gentleness in your daily life. By reflecting on personal experiences, you can foster compassion during challenging interactions and promote better mental health. It's a refreshing perspective that shows how gentleness can be a strength.

153 snips
Jul 14, 2025 • 10min
Only The Wise Are Free | A Little Knowledge Is Dangerous
Explore how ignorance enslaves us, emphasizing the Stoic virtues of Justice, Temperance, Wisdom, and Courage for living our best lives. Discover the importance of lifelong learning and intellectual humility to avoid the pitfalls of arrogance. Hear personal anecdotes reflecting on the Dunning-Kruger effect and the need for a student mindset. Unveil the idea that true freedom comes from wisdom, not status, while pre-ordering a unique collector's edition set celebrating these timeless lessons.

78 snips
Jul 13, 2025 • 12min
Seneca Explains The Art of Argument
Seneca critiques the art of sophistry, warning that clever arguments can distract from what truly matters in life. He emphasizes the importance of seeking genuine truths over superficial praise. The conversation dives into distinguishing real virtues from deceiving vices, encouraging listeners to understand moral complexities. Additionally, it challenges the obsession with trivial pursuits, urging a focus on meaningful experiences. This philosophical journey showcases Seneca’s wisdom on living a life grounded in authenticity and virtue.

330 snips
Jul 12, 2025 • 1h 7min
Think About Death. Science Says You’ll Be Happier. | Dr. Laurie Santos
Dr. Laurie Santos, a Yale professor and happiness expert, dives into the profound impact of contemplating mortality on our happiness. She discusses how embracing the idea of 'memento mori' can enhance our appreciation of life. The conversation covers the balance of negative and positive visualizations, Stoic virtues for living fully, and personal anecdotes that foster resilience. By focusing on gratitude and meaningful connections, Santos showcases how philosophical insights can lead to greater joy in everyday moments.

67 snips
Jul 11, 2025 • 21min
Can You Play Ball Like This? | Stoic Tips For Navigating Change & Disruption
Explore the power of Stoic philosophy in overcoming life's hurdles, drawing wisdom from Epictetus. Discover the metaphor of athletes and how catching life's 'ball' can teach us resilience and grace. Learn to navigate change with moral integrity and a commitment to virtue, even in chaos. Embrace the transient nature of life, using disruptions as opportunities for growth. Reflective journaling and a proactive mindset are key to alleviating anxieties and fostering personal development in uncertain times.

70 snips
Jul 10, 2025 • 13min
Do You Know The Favorite Of Your Favorite? | Ask Daily Stoic
Discover the profound legacy of Epictetus and how he shaped the philosophy of Marcus Aurelius. Engage in a memorable discussion about bravery in parenting and the importance of exposing kids to varied career paths. Learn how to embrace life's challenges with Stoic wisdom, turning adversity into growth opportunities. Plus, hear about practical tools for personal finance management and nutritious meal solutions that can enhance your lifestyle. Dive into these insightful topics that blend philosophy with everyday living!

4 snips
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.

115 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.

125 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.