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
178 snips
Sep 25, 2025 • 14min
You Are Never Excused From This | Ask Daily Stoic
Exploring the timeless relevance of the Four Stoic Virtues—justice, temperance, wisdom, and courage—highlights their importance in living a fulfilling life. Marcus Aurelius serves as an example of lifelong learning, emphasizing that education is a continuous responsibility. The discussion also reveals insights into defining justice through Stoic lenses and the origins of these virtues. Plus, the announcement of an upcoming book invites listeners to delve deeper into the wisdom required for personal growth.
191 snips
Sep 24, 2025 • 39min
Fix Your News Diet NOW (Before It Breaks Your Brain) | John Avlon (PT. 1)
John Avlon, a seasoned journalist and historian known for his work at CNN and The Daily Beast, discusses the importance of a balanced news diet in today’s chaotic media landscape. He emphasizes the value of local journalism and shares insights from Abraham Lincoln, highlighting leadership, empathy, and the necessity of humor in politics. Avlon examines how history repeats itself and the role of optimism in pro-democracy movements, urging listeners to confront history rather than erase it.
48 snips
Sep 24, 2025 • 2min
There’s No Such Thing As A Bad Thing
Explore the idea that there are no inherently bad things—only the meaning we assign to them. Ryan Holiday shares insights on reframing misfortune into opportunities for growth and service. Dive into how our responses shape our experiences and the power of perspective in overcoming setbacks.
270 snips
Sep 23, 2025 • 28min
BONUS | 12 Stoic Lessons from The Odyssey
Explore timeless wisdom from The Odyssey, where mentorship and perseverance intertwine. Discover how the sirens reflect modern temptations, urging us to stay committed like Odysseus. Dive into the lessons learned from his pacts and the importance of our experiences in shaping Stoic understanding. Ryan critiques the violence of Odysseus' return, highlighting the moral insights literature offers. Join for a captivating discussion that connects ancient tales to contemporary life through a Stoic lens.
84 snips
Sep 23, 2025 • 8min
We Need More of These People | Pain Is Self-Inflicted Harm
Explore the timeless virtues of Stoicism—justice, temperance, wisdom, and courage—as keys to a fulfilling life. Discover how quiet virtue can often surpass public accolades in embodying Stoic principles. Learn from the insights of Seneca and Napoleon on managing panic through preparation and the importance of planning. This discussion serves as a reminder that inner strength and resilience can lead to effective responses in challenging situations. Embrace Stoicism as a guide for daily living.
148 snips
Sep 22, 2025 • 9min
It’s Not Extraordinary | No Pain, No Gain
Greatness is built through daily, incremental efforts, not overnight success. Embrace challenges like sparring partners to grow strength and resilience. Stoic wisdom emphasizes the importance of consistency and discipline in achieving virtues. Plus, there's a sneak peek at Ryan's upcoming book, highlighting that wisdom truly takes work. Dive into these insights to start your day empowered!
127 snips
Sep 21, 2025 • 18min
You Have To Earn THIS | Ryan Holiday Live In London
Exploring the true nature of wisdom, Ryan Holiday emphasizes that it's not something one simply possesses. He discusses the rigorous journey towards acquiring wisdom, highlighting the importance of lifelong learning, mentorship, and self-reflection. The podcast also addresses the limitations of AI in understanding human wisdom. With insights on practical practices like reading and questioning, Ryan encourages listeners to actively engage in their pursuit of this elusive virtue.
94 snips
Sep 20, 2025 • 48min
The NFL Idols America Obsesses Over | Seth Wickersham (PT. 2)
Seth Wickersham, a renowned sports journalist and bestselling author, explores the complex psyche of NFL quarterbacks. He dives into the heavy parental pressure on young QBs and the necessity of fierce self-belief, often clashing with coaching styles. Seth reveals how the competitive edge can lead to isolation and mental health struggles, citing examples like Warren Moon and Eli Manning. The discussion also touches on the hidden burdens of commitment, Tom Brady's off-season demands, and the post-career identity crisis faced by many elite players.
166 snips
Sep 19, 2025 • 23min
Can You Return With Honor? | Why You Need To Do Something Hard EVERY SINGLE DAY
Explore the concept of returning with honor through the lens of Stoicism. Hear inspiring stories of resilience from POWs, including James Stockdale, and learn how historical figures like Marcus Aurelius embodied this ideal. Delve into why embracing difficulty is vital for personal growth, from cold plunges to rigorous training. Discover how facing hard challenges builds mental toughness and character, encouraging a mindset that thrives in adversity.
147 snips
Sep 18, 2025 • 14min
This Is How The Weak Beat The Strong | Ask Daily Stoic
Discover how the underdogs outsmart their stronger opponents through intelligence and strategy. Hear historical examples that showcase the triumph of the weak over the strong. Delve into the notion that true wisdom requires effort and stress. Ryan shares insights from his recent talk and offers practical journaling tips, including a simple one-line-a-day method. Join in for thought-provoking discussions that connect ancient Stoic principles to modern life.
