

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

259 snips
May 2, 2025 • 22min
If You Want A Reason To Live Pt. II | 12 Stoic Choices To LEVEL UP Your Life TODAY
Life can be dark, but small joys are everywhere. Discover the importance of conscious choices and the impact of walking on mental clarity. Embrace kindness as a fundamental virtue that can transform communities. Reflecting on mortality can inspire urgency in living well. Join a thriving community to share in the wisdom of Stoicism and explore the evolution of business ideals through real-world examples.

48 snips
May 1, 2025 • 13min
What Is It For If Not This? | Ask Daily Stoic
Explore the relationship between courage and fear, emphasizing the importance of acting decisively. Discover how Stoicism serves as a communal practice, inviting dialogue and connection. Hear engaging stories about classical virtues and their relevance to today's youth. Delve into the challenges of loyalty versus ethics, reflecting on the moral complexities of decision-making. Finally, consider why evaluating the impact of actions is crucial, urging a shift from profit to accountability in our lives.

46 snips
Apr 30, 2025 • 3min
Can You Imagine?
Explore the unseen burdens that each person carries in their lives. Delve into the poignant losses experienced by historical figures like Marcus Aurelius, shedding light on the emotional weight of their tragedies. This reflection encourages a deeper empathy towards others, reminding us of our shared human experience and the quiet battles we all endure. Tune in for insights that foster compassion amidst the struggles we encounter.

135 snips
Apr 30, 2025 • 1h 12min
Ed Helms on History’s Greatest Screw Ups
Ed Helms, the talented actor known for his roles in "The Office" and "The Hangover," joins to share his passion for history's greatest screw-ups, or SNAFUs. He dives into humorous tales of engineering fails, including notorious disasters that went hilariously wrong. Ed explores how history can provide a therapeutic escape, reflecting on the absurdities of past blunders and the lessons they teach us. Further, he discusses the importance of resilience and how personal struggles can fuel creative expression, all while keeping the conversation lighthearted and engaging.

231 snips
Apr 29, 2025 • 7min
You Have To Win The Morning! | Show, Don't Tell
Starting your day with intention is key to gaining control over the chaos that follows. By embracing a morning routine, you can set a positive tone and develop habits that lead to success. Delve into the teachings of Marcus Aurelius, who underscores the importance of action over mere knowledge. This conversation also highlights the value of introspection and patience in personal growth, encouraging you to nurture your thoughts like a plant before bringing them to light.

68 snips
Apr 28, 2025 • 9min
What's It All For? | Wants Make You A Servant
In a deep dive into the nature of desire, the discussion focuses on how waiting for a future moment can undermine our present actions. Historical figures like Cicero and Seneca serve as examples of the urgency needed in our choices. The podcast highlights the importance of personal autonomy and discourages excessive desires that lead to dependency. It encourages listeners to embrace contentment and gratitude as pathways to true freedom, reminding us that acting with courage today shapes our futures.

91 snips
Apr 27, 2025 • 11min
Seneca’s Warning | The Quiet Corruption of the Soul
This discussion highlights how we often overlook deeper flaws within our souls, much like ignored physical ailments. Seneca's insights reveal the importance of acknowledging personal vulnerabilities and the nature of human suffering. The conversation encourages self-reflection and intertwines philosophy with personal growth, illustrating how wisdom can lead to transformative change. Listeners are prompted to embrace philosophical inquiry as a vital tool for overcoming life's challenges and enhancing self-awareness.

111 snips
Apr 26, 2025 • 1h 11min
Leadership Lessons from Gen. Dan Caine | 9/11 Pilot to Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
Dan Caine, a retired Air Force Lieutenant General and the 22nd Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, shares gripping insights from his career. He discusses his experience as one of the first pilots on 9/11 and the essential traits of effective leaders. Caine emphasizes adaptability, continuous learning, and open communication in leadership roles. He highlights how ordinary individuals can display extraordinary courage in crises and the importance of cultivating morning routines for personal growth and productivity.

113 snips
Apr 25, 2025 • 45min
Encourage Yourself Like This | Are Women MORE Stoic Than Men?
Explore the personal struggles of Marcus Aurelius and his intimate reflections that inspire greatness. Learn how the virtues of influential women challenge misconceptions about Stoicism and gender stereotypes. Discover stories of resilient women who have quietly shaped the philosophy throughout history. Delve into the essential role of Aurelius's mother and other remarkable women in the development of Stoic thought. The podcast aims to elevate the often-overlooked contributions of women to the legacy of Stoicism.

59 snips
Apr 24, 2025 • 19min
It Can Change Your Life | Ask Daily Stoic
Discover how Marcus Aurelius' 'Meditations' can profoundly influence your life. Explore the timeless principles of Stoicism and their connection to modern self-improvement and relationships. Delve into the historical context of Stoicism during chaotic times, emphasizing the importance of maintaining values and resilience amidst societal turmoil. Get ready to rethink your perspective and join a live Q&A on these life-changing concepts!