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.Support the podcast and go deeper with Stoicism by subscribing to The Daily Stoic Premium - unlock ad-free listening, early access, and bonus content (coming soon): dailystoic.com/premium
Episodes
Mentioned books
251 snips
Aug 27, 2025 • 1h 7min
The Greatest Leader You’ve Never Understood | Doris Kearns Goodwin
Doris Kearns Goodwin, a Pulitzer Prize-winning presidential historian, dives deep into Abraham Lincoln's unique leadership traits. She emphasizes that Lincoln's moral fiber and humility set him apart in political history. The conversation explores how he balanced ethical values with strategy and fostered loyalty within his cabinet. Goodwin also shares her experiences of writing about legendary figures, capturing the emotional journey of transforming history into engaging narratives for future generations.
100 snips
Aug 26, 2025 • 8min
Would You Be Mad At This? | A Cure For Procrastination
Exploring the complexities of human relationships, this discussion reveals how people can inspire and disappoint us simultaneously. It emphasizes the importance of self-control and the urgency of taking action, drawing wisdom from Stoic philosophers. Procrastination is framed as a form of arrogance, urging listeners to embrace courage and self-discipline. The conversation encourages seizing the day and setting realistic deadlines, spotlighting the need for immediate action over delay.
176 snips
Aug 26, 2025 • 4min
BONUS | 8 Life Lessons Ryan Holiday Learned The Hard Way
Life lessons only come through experience, often the hard way. The discussion dives into the virtues of patience and calmness when facing challenges. Decisiveness and valuing input from partners can lead to better decision-making. Trust and managing expectations emerge as crucial themes in personal and professional growth. The importance of continual learning and reading is emphasized as a pathway to understanding these lessons more deeply.
93 snips
Aug 25, 2025 • 10min
You Always Lose When You Lose Your Temper | Respect The Past, But Be Open To The Future
Explore how anger can derail relationships and decision-making, with insights from Seneca on maintaining calm. Learn the transformative power of pausing before reacting to improve emotional management. Discover the delicate balance between honoring tradition while embracing modern innovations, like supplements for well-being. Reflect on how adapting ancient wisdom to contemporary challenges fosters personal growth and evolution.
354 snips
Aug 24, 2025 • 18min
6 Stoic Time Management Techniques From Seneca
Uncover the timeless wisdom of Seneca as he shares six transformative time management techniques. Learn how to confront mortality to prioritize what truly matters. Discover the high cost of wasted time and the need to manage emotional distractions. Embrace the art of saying 'no' to trivialities and focus on meaningful pursuits. Engage in self-reflection to reclaim your time. Ultimately, master the balance between leisure and learning to live a more fulfilling life.
200 snips
Aug 23, 2025 • 54min
Your Character Defines Your Life | General Stanley McChrystal (PT. 2)
Retired U.S. Army General Stanley McChrystal, renowned for his command of Joint Special Operations Command, joins the conversation. He discusses the essence of character in leadership, revealing how true integrity emerges during pivotal moments. Parenting, he asserts, is a crucial arena for instilling values amidst societal pressures. The talk also explores the challenges of decision-making in an age of AI, emphasizing the need for personal accountability while navigating ethical dilemmas. McChrystal shares valuable insights on resilience and the impact of choices throughout life.
260 snips
Aug 22, 2025 • 15min
It’ll Come For You Eventually | How To Read Better (10 Rules From Ryan Holiday)
Discover the poignant narrative of Seneca's life and his connection with Nero, illustrating the weight of personal responsibility. Explore the unpredictability of life through a near-death experience and the importance of preparation. Learn about the habits that define serious readers, emphasizing effort over speed and the value of prioritizing inspiring books. Engage actively with literature through marking and annotating, deepening your understanding of Stoic teachings and their relevance to modern issues.
136 snips
Aug 21, 2025 • 14min
These Are Three Ancient Stoic Secrets | Ask Daily Stoic
Discover three powerful ancient Stoic maxims that promote self-awareness and balance. Learn why preparing for life's uncertainties is crucial, and how supplements like creatine can enhance both physical and cognitive performance. Get an inside look at audiobook recording struggles and upcoming speaking events. Lastly, explore how breaking tasks into manageable pieces can maintain your motivation, emphasizing the Stoic view of prioritizing internal success for personal growth.
230 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 45min
The Hard Truth About Character | General Stanley McChrystal (PT. 1)
In a captivating discussion, retired General Stanley McChrystal shares insights on the essence of character and its crucial role in leadership. He emphasizes that discipline often trumps raw talent and reflects on the challenges leaders face in maintaining integrity. McChrystal also dives into how personal routines shape character, the complexities of making moral choices, and the evolving understanding gained through literature. Ultimately, he urges a thoughtful engagement with history to improve civic life and personal growth.
33 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 3min
Is This Really Worth The Cost?
Exploring the ambition paradox, the discussion reflects on the lives of significant historical figures like Alexander the Great. It poses deep questions about whether our relentless pursuits are really worth the cost, especially when faced with our mortality. The conversation encourages listeners to adopt a more humble perspective on ambition, urging introspection about what legacy we truly wish to leave behind.
