
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

230 snips
Feb 26, 2025 • 1h 1min
Austin Kleon on Fueling Artistic Ambition
Austin Kleon, a renowned writer and artist known for his bestselling books, dives into the nuances of creativity with Ryan. He discusses the importance of hobbies in fueling artistic ambition and reflects on how societal pressures can make us feel machine-like. The conversation highlights the evolution of music as a communal experience, the challenges of modern creative expression, and the complexities of fame. Kleon also shares insights on engaging children through storytelling, emphasizing playfulness in nurturing a love for art and literature.

82 snips
Feb 25, 2025 • 7min
The Young Think There Is Always Tomorrow | The Smoke And Dust Of Life
Life is uncertain, and tomorrow is never guaranteed. The discussion emphasizes the youthful illusion of endless time, urging listeners to seize the moment. It highlights the urgency of living meaningfully today rather than deferring goals to an uncertain future. Drawing on Stoic philosophy, particularly Marcus Aurelius, the conversation inspires a focus on present actions and meaningful living. Personal stories enhance the message that every day is an opportunity, and procrastination can lead to missed chances in life.

248 snips
Feb 24, 2025 • 8min
Is This Really An Obstacle? | Reduce Wants, Increase Happiness
The discussion emphasizes how we define our obstacles and our power over them. Insights from Epictetus highlight the role of perception in shaping our experiences. By reframing narratives, we can reduce our desires and, in turn, enhance our happiness. Practicing moderation is presented as a key to true fulfillment. It's a thought-provoking exploration of how mindset influences our path to contentment.

833 snips
Feb 23, 2025 • 41min
How Ryan Holiday is Preparing For The Next Four Years
As chaos looms in the years ahead, timeless Stoic wisdom offers guidance on staying strong. Parenting and journaling emerge as tools for personal growth and accountability. Content creators are urged to engage positively and maintain ethical standards amidst turmoil. Rising above disappointment and embracing physical discipline is key to resilience. Reflecting on historical upheavals encourages a focus on what we can control, empowering individuals to foster meaningful connections and uplift their communities.

45 snips
Feb 22, 2025 • 51min
Lamb of God’s Randy Blythe on Conquering Inner Demons and Memento Mori (PT. 2)
Randy Blythe, the lead singer of Lamb of God and author of "Just Beyond the Light," opens up about his transformative experience in a Czech prison. He discusses how this shaped his outlook on life and mortality. The conversation touches on the importance of living meaningfully in a world that can feel nihilistic. Blythe also challenges the tortured artist stereotype, emphasizing clarity over suffering in creativity. He reflects on the complexities of passion and the emotional struggles musicians face, urging listeners to embrace gratitude and personal growth.

172 snips
Feb 21, 2025 • 12min
Yes It’s Radical (Even A Little Crazy) | The MOST Important Stoic Lesson For Crazy Times
Explore how pushing beyond comfort zones can foster true justice in society. Discover the Stoic balance between self-interest and altruism, illustrated through Hierocles' concentric circles. Delve into the importance of active compassion in confronting societal injustices, especially regarding immigration. The discussion emphasizes individual responsibility in making ethical choices that align with the common good. It's a deep dive into moral courage during complex times.

187 snips
Feb 20, 2025 • 19min
We Are All In Debt | Ask Daily Stoic
Debt isn't just financial; it can also signify moral and intellectual influences from mentors. Explore how acknowledging these debts fuels personal growth. Delve into the importance of integrating Stoicism and classic literature into modern education, blending historical wisdom with current challenges. The discussion extends to our interconnected responsibilities toward the environment and family. Ultimately, success is redefined through meaningful relationships, and gratitude is expressed for the audience that fosters these enriching conversations.

70 snips
Feb 19, 2025 • 45min
Lamb of God’s Randy Blythe on Conquering Inner Demons and Memento Mori (PT. 1)
Randy Blythe, the lead singer of Lamb of God, opens up about his journey through heavy metal and Stoicism. He shares his struggles with ego and personal growth while managing fame. The music icon reflects on overcoming addiction and finding joy in fan interactions. Blythe connects the roots of heavy metal culture with emotional expression and identity, discussing the genre's evolution alongside personal anecdotes. His new book, 'Just Beyond the Light,' highlights his quest for inner peace and leaving a positive impact on the world.

28 snips
Feb 19, 2025 • 2min
Investigate Yourself First
Dive into the world of self-reflection and its vital role in today’s chaos. Discover how Stoic philosophy, especially the insights of Seneca, fosters personal growth and self-awareness. Learn to cut through distractions and cultivate a clearer inner vision. This exploration brings a fresh perspective on managing life’s complexities with wisdom and intention.

140 snips
Feb 18, 2025 • 8min
Can You Do It Even When You Don’t Want To? | Cultivate Indifference
Discover how discipline becomes essential when faced with challenges and waning motivation. The host shares personal stories that inspire mental resilience to push through discomfort. Dive into the Stoic philosophy of embracing indifference, learning how acceptance of varied circumstances can strengthen your resolve. Explore insights from notable Stoic thinkers to cultivate a mindset that thrives amidst adversity.