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
122 snips
Aug 2, 2025 • 1h 12min
Winning Is A Muscle. Build It. | WNBA Legend Candace Parker
In a captivating discussion, WNBA legend Candace Parker shares her insights on the relentless pursuit of greatness. She reveals how winning shapes her worldview and identity, and delves into the emotional highs and lows of competition. Candace reflects on resilience, the importance of teamwork, and managing expectations in sports. Her journey also touches on parenting and the influence of literature, particularly 'The Alchemist,' in shaping her mindset. With her experience and wisdom, she inspires listeners to cultivate a winning mindset in all aspects of life.
340 snips
Aug 1, 2025 • 13min
Why Would It Go Differently For You? | 9 Life-Changing Books
Dive into the surprising realities of dealing with narcissistic figures, drawing lessons from history's powerful personalities. Discover how life insurance can protect your family's future and streamline hiring processes. Uncover transformative reads that inspire personal growth and resilience, including classics like 'The 48 Laws of Power.' Gain insights into effective leadership rooted in Stoic principles while exploring the timeless wisdom of Seneca, encouraging continuous self-improvement through philosophy.
67 snips
Jul 31, 2025 • 14min
There Is Hope Within Despair | Ask Daily Stoic
Exploring the dual themes of despair and hope, ancient Stoics like Seneca and Marcus Aurelius teach us about inner strength and personal agency. A personal story brings joy from simple pleasures into the conversation. The importance of life insurance for families, especially those with young children, is discussed, highlighting common challenges and solutions. Finally, the effort to make Stoic philosophy relevant today reveals the balance between marketing challenges and authentic communication.
53 snips
Jul 31, 2025 • 10min
BONUS | Matthew McConaughey’s Advice on Handling Difficult People
In this intriguing conversation, award-winning actor Matthew McConaughey shares his insights on handling difficult people using Stoic principles. He emphasizes mastering tough conversations with restraint and the strategic management of contentious interactions. McConaughey highlights the power of silence and anticipation in navigating these challenges, fostering emotional well-being. He also reflects on the lessons learned from difficult engagements, showcasing their potential for personal growth and understanding in our daily lives.
187 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 1h 10min
Feelings Are Valid, Reacting To Them Is Not | Dr. Aliza Pressman
In a lively discussion, Dr. Aliza Pressman, a developmental psychologist and parenting expert, shares insights on the importance of self-regulation in emotional management. She emphasizes that feelings are valid, but how we react to them matters more. Aliza addresses the challenges parents face today, advocating for emotional awareness and modeling regulation for children. She encourages finding joy in small moments and highlights the balance between parenting and self-care, ultimately arguing that resilience is cultivated through both support and adversity.
112 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 6min
This Is How To Direct Your Life
Explore the timeless Stoic virtues: courage, temperance, justice, and wisdom. Discover how these principles empower you to navigate life's challenges with strength and clarity. Gain insights through historical anecdotes that highlight their relevance today. Plus, find out about a special limited edition collection of books celebrating these vital teachings.
100 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 9min
Can You Subject Yourself To This? | A Week Without Complaining
Delve into the power of questioning your beliefs and biases to enhance judgment. Discover how challenging personal assumptions can lead to profound growth. Learn from Stoic thinkers like Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius about the importance of avoiding complaints and taking responsibility. Embrace self-reflection and constructive feedback as tools for a stronger character and a richer life. This conversation weaves wisdom from ancient philosophy into practical advice for modern challenges.
109 snips
Jul 28, 2025 • 9min
No One Can Give You This | Check Your Privilege
Explore the pursuit of wisdom through self-directed education, inspired by Stoic figures like Seneca. Discover the importance of taking control of your own learning journey. Dive into discussions on privilege, emphasizing compassion and empathy for those with different backgrounds. Recognize your own advantages while extending understanding to others. This thought-provoking dialogue encourages personal growth and a deeper connection to the Stoic philosophy.
1,333 snips
Jul 27, 2025 • 1h 11min
100 (Stoic) Lessons From Marcus Aurelius
Marcus Aurelius teaches the value of repeated reading for wisdom. Explore resilience and objectivity through his 'Meditations.' Embrace adversity as a path to growth, while emphasizing the importance of living in the present. True success comes from within, independent of external validation. Asking for help is seen as courageous, fostering connection in our lives. The discussions highlight gratitude, character, and our shared existence, encouraging us to face challenges with patience and self-control.
19 snips
Jul 26, 2025 • 11min
BONUS | Jefferson Fisher's Reading List (From Ryan Holiday)
Discover intriguing insights into Abraham Lincoln's impact on American history, focusing on the complexities of his speeches. Unearth the story behind Harper Lee's unfinished narratives and her creative struggles. Explore discussions on innovative nutrition solutions and sleep technologies for well-being. Delve into the artistic aspects of book design while examining accountability in media through Peter Thiel's battle with Gawker. Reflect on memento mori concepts and personal storytelling, highlighting the importance of documenting life’s moments and Stoic virtues.
