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
861 snips
Dec 31, 2025 • 51min
How James Clear Would Start 2026 If He Were You
Join James Clear, author of the bestseller Atomic Habits, as he shares powerful insights on starting 2026 right. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on systems over goals and explains how adaptable habits can lead to long-term success. Clear discusses the value of small daily improvements and the fresh-start effect, encouraging listeners to design routines that fit their lives. Discover how to use reflection and idle moments to advance projects while avoiding common January pitfalls that keep people stuck.
24 snips
Dec 31, 2025 • 3min
BONUS | Another Year Gone By. What Have You Done?
Reflecting on the past year, the host encourages listeners to confront their disappointments and regrets. With the arrival of a new year, there's a unique opportunity for change and hope. Delving into Marcus Aurelius' 'dead-man exercise,' he inspires clarity around priorities. The message is clear: embrace this second chance and commit to living your best life moving forward. It's a powerful reminder that every new beginning holds the potential for transformation.
31 snips
Dec 31, 2025 • 4min
We Are Training For This
Prepare to toughen up as the discussion dives into the connection between physical training and mental resilience. Historical figures like Seneca and Socrates are referenced, highlighting how they used discipline to strengthen their minds. Anticipate 2026's challenges with a 21-day program designed to increase your discomfort tolerance and confidence. Embrace the tough times as essential training for life's tests. The call to action is clear: start preparing now for your best life ahead!
222 snips
Dec 30, 2025 • 20min
BONUS | 7 Simple Stoic Habits That Will Transform You In 2026
As the year comes to a close, the discussion emphasizes reflecting on accomplishments and setting high expectations for the new year. Journaling is highlighted as a powerful tool for self-reflection, with inspirations from Marcus Aurelius and JFK. Waking up early is promoted as a key habit for intentional living. Seeking challenges, based on Seneca's wisdom, encourages personal growth. The benefits of walking for mental clarity are explored, alongside the importance of generosity and remembering mortality to sharpen priorities.
73 snips
Dec 30, 2025 • 12min
You Don't Have Unlimited Time | What's Up To Us, What's Not Up To Us
Explore the struggle with procrastination and the importance of acting now instead of waiting for the perfect moment. Delve into Seneca's wisdom on valuing time and learn about the 21-day challenge that encourages personal growth starting January 1st. Discover the Stoic concept of what's in our control versus what isn't, emphasizing the power of choice and perception. Finally, reflect on the significance of letting go of the past and focusing on the present for a more fulfilling life.
18 snips
Dec 29, 2025 • 8min
If You Want to Make the World Better, Do This | Give Thanks
Explore the transformative power of self-improvement through Stoicism. Personal growth, Ryan argues, not only enhances your life but also positively impacts society. Discover how small, disciplined actions can lead to greater social good. Get ready for a 21-day challenge starting January 1, where you can commit to being your best self in 2026. Dive into gratitude with insights from Seneca, learning to appreciate even the negatives, and practice thankfulness daily for a profound shift in perspective.
166 snips
Dec 28, 2025 • 18min
The Stoic Way To Survive 2026
Discover how to embrace the new year with Stoic principles centered on courage, discipline, justice, and wisdom. Explore the importance of moral courage and everyday bravery, alongside the power of tackling unpleasant tasks to strengthen willpower. Hear about ambitious goals that push you beyond limits, and why resolutions should benefit the community. Learn from Thomas Clarkson's impactful small actions and the continuous pursuit of wisdom through learning and inquiry. Make 2026 your year for growth!
52 snips
Dec 27, 2025 • 55min
You Could Leave Life Today. What Would You Do Differently?
Join Dr. Laurie Santos, a Yale psychology professor and happiness expert, and grief specialist David Kessler as they explore the Stoic concept of Memento Mori. Laurie shares how being aware of mortality enhances our enjoyment of life, while David maps grief onto the hero's journey, revealing how it can lead to profound meaning. They discuss the pitfalls of obsessing over longevity and highlight how understanding death can enrich our present lives. The conversation is both illuminating and deeply moving, urging us to savor each moment.
75 snips
Dec 27, 2025 • 33min
BONUS | The Book Ryan Holiday Keeps Coming Back To
In an engaging conversation with Shilo Brooks, CEO of the George W. Bush Presidential Center and host of the Old School podcast, Ryan Holiday reveals his deep affection for Walker Percy’s The Moviegoer. They discuss the protagonist Binx's quest for meaning amidst postwar consumerism and distractions like women and work. The dialogue highlights themes of existential emptiness and Percy's notion of 'everydayness.' Ryan also delves into the influences of Catholicism and Stoicism within the novel, offering a rich exploration of purpose.
111 snips
Dec 26, 2025 • 14min
It Doesn’t Take Long to Do This | Mark Manson's Reading List (From Ryan Holiday)
Mark Manson, an author and blogger renowned for his insights on self-improvement, discusses fascinating reads with Ryan Holiday. They explore transformative books like 'Die With Zero' and 'Going Infinite,' offering fresh perspectives on life and leadership. Manson shares intriguing anecdotes from a writers' group and highlights lesser-known favorites, such as a biography of Pontius Pilate. Their chat underscores how books not only influence personal philosophy but also inspire actions for the New Year, pushing for meaningful change.
