
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

147 snips
Feb 2, 2025 • 12min
Grow A Coaching Tree
Explore the inspiring concept of 'coaching trees' and the legacy of mentorship. Discover how empowering others leads to collective success, with examples from sports and literature. Uncover the profound impact of a coach's influence on Hall of Fame players and future coaches in basketball. Dive into the ripple effect of mentorship, where individual actions spark positive change across generations. True success isn't isolated; it thrives through the growth of those you mentor.

137 snips
Feb 1, 2025 • 56min
Matthew McConaughey LIVE at The Painted Porch
In a lively talk, Matthew McConaughey, an acclaimed actor and author of Greenlights, shares his insights on navigating life’s challenges. He discusses how to deal with difficult people, the metaphor of traffic lights for life's obstacles, and offers advice for those considering major career shifts. McConaughey even clarifies his viral tuna salad recipe, blending humor with wisdom. His reflections on personal growth, caregiving, and the impact of literature add depth to the conversation, making it both entertaining and enlightening.

62 snips
Jan 31, 2025 • 9min
Does It Measure Up? | Philosophy As Medicine Of The Soul
Explore the tension between ambition and daily living, examining the legacies of figures like Alexander the Great and Marcus Aurelius. Discover how prioritizing daily actions can lead to a meaningful legacy. Dive into the comforting role of philosophy in our lives, with insights from Marcus Aurelius that guide us through modern chaos. A call to embark on a 21-day Stoic-inspired challenge encourages listeners to reconnect with timeless wisdom.

74 snips
Jan 31, 2025 • 14min
BONUS: Finding Stillness Amidst The Chaos | Ryan and Samantha Holiday
Samantha Holiday, co-host of The Daily Dad podcast and mother of four, joins her husband Ryan to explore finding stillness while juggling parenting and professional life. They delve into the Stoic concept of 'ataraxia' as a key to tranquility amidst chaos. The couple shares personal experiences on incorporating moments of calm into their busy routines and the importance of mental space over simply free time. They also discuss fostering inner peace in children, highlighting practical approaches for parents seeking balance in today's world.

96 snips
Jan 30, 2025 • 15min
The Time Is Now | Ask Daily Stoic
The hosts tackle the idea that even great leaders like Marcus Aurelius made mistakes, stressing the importance of what we do next. They inspire listeners to embrace change and begin self-improvement through immediate actions rather than procrastination. The conversation then shifts to balancing personal goals with relationships, highlighting how our intensity can affect those around us. Incorporating Aristotle’s notion of moderation, they share insights on how to pursue ambitions without overwhelming ourselves or others.

190 snips
Jan 29, 2025 • 1h 6min
Matthew McConaughey on Family, Fame, and Livin' Authentically
Matthew McConaughey, acclaimed actor and author of *Greenlights*, shares wisdom on living authentically. He discusses balancing the chaos of Hollywood fame with family life, treating choices as experiments rather than fixed paths. McConaughey emphasizes the importance of crafting a meaningful legacy over chasing quick wins. He explores the significance of embracing individuality in creative endeavors and the challenges of personal growth. Finally, he reflects on effective communication and the lasting impact of words in relationships.

23 snips
Jan 29, 2025 • 2min
Have You Tried Asking For This?
Explore the profound wisdom of Stoicism as it encourages embracing reality rather than wishing for a different world. Discover how inner strength and adaptability shape personal growth. The discussion emphasizes valuing virtue and resilience over the need for control, offering insightful perspectives on navigating life's challenges. This conversation invites listeners to reflect on their reactions to circumstances and find empowerment in acceptance.

316 snips
Jan 28, 2025 • 24min
We Forget These Heroes | How To Organize Your Life Like A Stoic Philosopher
Discover the often-overlooked contributions of Stoic women and marginalized figures, showcasing their courage and resilience. Learn daily routines inspired by lesser-known Stoic teachings that can promote organization and productivity. Delve into the importance of mental boundaries, creating an inner citadel for self-sufficiency amidst distractions. Explore how embracing adaptability can help navigate life's impermanence while maintaining focus on essential values. It's a journey through ancient wisdom made relevant for today!

104 snips
Jan 27, 2025 • 9min
You Need This Trait To Live Your Best Life | Focus On The Present Moment
This discussion emphasizes the importance of questioning and being open to change for personal growth. Seneca's insights on adaptability and resilience inspire listeners to stay motivated in their pursuits. The podcast delves into Stoic teachings that highlight the power of living in the present moment. By focusing on now, individuals can eliminate distractions, engage fully in their responsibilities, and cultivate gratitude for their journey. This intersection of philosophy and practical advice unveils paths to a more fulfilling life.

55 snips
Jan 26, 2025 • 16min
Seneca on Master and Slave
Seneca, the renowned Roman philosopher known for his impactful insights on ethics and society, dives deep into the complexities of slavery and freedom. He critiques the dehumanizing effects of slavery, urging a reevaluation of human dignity and the treatment of others. Seneca emphasizes that true freedom comes from breaking personal dependencies. Additionally, he explores the importance of ethical power dynamics, advocating for respect and kindness in leadership, and underscores our shared humanity beyond social status.