

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

121 snips
Apr 24, 2025 • 49min
BONUS: This Is The Stoicism Talk The Navy Banned (Ryan Holiday At The U.S. Naval Academy)
The speaker discusses a canceled lecture at the Naval Academy, emphasizing the danger of censoring controversial ideas. They explore the philosophy that obstacles can lead to personal growth, using historical examples like James Stockdale. The importance of reading for intellectual development and resisting censorship is highlighted. Leadership requires questioning norms and committing to lifelong learning. The talk also encourages the armed forces to embrace philosophy, while promoting hydration as key for maintaining focus and clarity.

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!

153 snips
Apr 23, 2025 • 1h 3min
Why We Treat The Body Rigorously | Bonnie Tsui
Bonnie Tsui, a journalist and author known for her works on swimming and muscle, joins the discussion to explore the critical link between physical fitness and mental resilience. They delve into how muscle memory can enhance cognitive function and how Stoic philosophy emphasizes the discipline of the body to enrich the mind. Bonnie shares insights on embracing physical challenges, fostering curiosity, and the holistic benefits of movement, illustrating how a rigorous approach to the body can lead to greater life satisfaction and personal growth.

46 snips
Apr 23, 2025 • 4min
Before You Get Angry Today, Listen To This
Explore the fascinating connection between Stoicism and emotional resilience. Discover how a tattoo inspired by Marcus Aurelius helps an actor manage anger and frustration. The discussion emphasizes the importance of applying Stoic principles in daily life. Celebrating the birthday of Marcus Aurelius, the podcast encourages listeners to engage with his classic work, Meditations, and find harmony in collaboration rather than conflict. Tune in for a refreshing take on navigating emotions through ancient wisdom.

56 snips
Apr 22, 2025 • 10min
It’s The Most Empowering Thing | The Freedom Of Contempt
Explore the challenges of tough conversations and the importance of personal growth. Discover how Marcus Aurelius' 'Meditations' encourages resilience through the concept of 'The Freedom of Contempt,' urging a shift from luxury to meaningful living. Celebrate listener milestones as gratitude flows, and dive into the world of intriguing medical mysteries. This engaging discussion emphasizes the power of Stoic philosophy in navigating life's ups and downs.

38 snips
Apr 22, 2025 • 21min
BONUS: Celebrate Earth Day The Stoic Way | Living In Accordance With Nature
Celebrate Earth Day by discovering how Stoic philosophy advocates living in harmony with nature. Reflect on personal stories from swimming in beautiful springs and the emotional challenges of hunting. Learn about the importance of preserving our ecosystems and how animal companionship fosters gratitude. Delve into the life cycles experienced on farms, revealing profound lessons on mortality. This exploration highlights the connection between nature and happiness, urging listeners to embrace the wisdom found in the great outdoors.

71 snips
Apr 21, 2025 • 10min
This Is How To Live Well | Don't Let Your Attention Slide
Discover how the wisdom of Marcus Aurelius informs our approach to living and dying with grace. Explore the urgent need for focus in a world filled with distractions. Personal stories illustrate the costs of losing concentration and the crucial role boundaries play in preserving engagement. Celebrate the podcast's milestone of over 30 million downloads and look ahead to new discussions about idealism versus commercial success in the world of Whole Foods. Embrace gratitude as a key element in enhancing your life.

79 snips
Apr 20, 2025 • 12min
BONUS: How Rory McIlroy Fueled His Comeback with Stoicism
Rory McIlroy's recent Masters victory highlights his incredible comeback, fueled by Stoic principles. The discussion emphasizes mental resilience and the power of focusing on personal responses to challenges. It also delves into how embracing failure can be a catalyst for growth and the importance of digital minimalism for athletes. Additionally, themes of finding balance and appreciating the journey rather than just the accolades underscore the value of pursuing one's passion with purpose.

71 snips
Apr 20, 2025 • 17min
The Moment Ryan Holiday's Life Changed Forever
Explore how Marcus Aurelius’s teachings can transform modern life. Dive into Ryan's personal journey with 'Meditations,' sparked during a trip to Brazil. Discover the timeless wisdom of this historical giant and how his insights resonate with today’s challenges. Learn about the power of self-reflection and personal growth through Stoic philosophy. Plus, get tips on staying hydrated while traveling!

93 snips
Apr 19, 2025 • 53min
Meditations Isn’t Just for Philosophers
Jennifer Baker, a Professor specializing in Stoicism, shares fascinating insights into Marcus Aurelius' 'Meditations'. She reveals its timeless relevance, connecting its wisdom to modern struggles. The discussion highlights how Stoicism emphasizes emotional control rather than suppression, illustrating its application in leadership roles. Personal stories shed light on resilience in the face of grief and ethical dilemmas, showcasing how ancient philosophy can guide contemporary decisions and enhance personal growth.