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
61 snips
Nov 4, 2025 • 9min
When The Statues Still Had Paint On Them | The Real Power You Have
Dive into the vivid world of ancient Greece and Rome, where history is alive and colorful, not just dusty relics. Explore how today's choices shape our future and the distinction between fleeting external power and the enduring strength of inner virtue. Discover insights from Stoic thinkers like Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius, who emphasize self-mastery as the ultimate freedom. Reflect on what power you pursue: the external or the profound control within yourself. This thought-provoking discussion inspires a deeper understanding of our present.
126 snips
Nov 3, 2025 • 7min
This is How To Be Smart (Or At Least Not Dumb) | Following The Doctor's Orders
Discover the balance between being smart and avoiding folly. Learn how practical wisdom can help us sidestep fads and grifters. Embrace hardship like a doctor's orders—each challenge is a lesson designed to strengthen us. Reflect on classic Stoic philosophy, particularly insights from Marcus Aurelius, to transform obstacles into opportunities for growth. Tune in for inspiration to cultivate resilience and avoid the traps of superficiality.
160 snips
Nov 2, 2025 • 17min
Everything (And I Really Mean Everything) Is A Chance To Do This
The discussion dives into the profound choices we face: bravery versus fear, selfishness versus selflessness. Insights on interpreting Marcus Aurelius highlight using obstacles not just for success but for cultivating moral character. The podcast explores the four cardinal virtues of Stoicism—courage, discipline, justice, and wisdom. Personal anecdotes illustrate how hardships serve as tests of character. Ryan emphasizes that virtue is a craft to be practiced, guiding us in responding to life's unpredictability.
74 snips
Nov 1, 2025 • 50min
What Did The Stoics Get WRONG? | Nick Thompson (CEO of The Atlantic)
Nick Thompson, CEO of The Atlantic and competitive ultrarunner, dives deep into the synergy between running and Stoicism. He explores how daily disciplines in both running and Stoic philosophy can drive personal breakthroughs. The conversation touches on Marcus Aurelius's fateful decision regarding Commodus, the erosion of expertise in modern society, and the importance of active engagement versus passive acceptance. With insights on adapting in a rapidly changing world, Thompson emphasizes the balance between pushing limits and fostering understanding in journalism.
272 snips
Oct 31, 2025 • 21min
This is the Deads Day | Harsh Truths From The Stoics
Exploring the intersection of Halloween and Día de los Muertos, the discussion delves into how rituals help us confront mortality. Key Stoic principles highlight the importance of humility and the power of saying no, while emphasizing the need for self-acceptance and focusing on what we can control. The conversation encourages readers to seek wisdom through deep reading and journaling, while reminding us to avoid distractions and nurture our growth through challenges. Ultimately, it's about valuing time and integrity over external approval.
34 snips
Oct 30, 2025 • 14min
Do You Have That Dog In You? | Ask Daily Stoic
Explore the courage of Diogenes and how Stoics confront power with honesty. Discover the importance of authenticity in relationships while balancing social norms. Tune in for insights on the difference between wisdom and intelligence, emphasizing the need for self-awareness. Ryan also discusses the flow of speaking from the heart versus the head, all while inviting listeners to join upcoming live events and a special Stoicism course.
74 snips
Oct 30, 2025 • 9min
BONUS | Seeking External Validation is RUINING Your Life - Dr. Rangan Chatterjee
Dr. Rangan Chatterjee, a physician and author known for his health wisdom, dives into the pitfalls of seeking external validation. He explains how chasing approval can lead to losing authenticity and outlines the three ingredients of lasting happiness: alignment, contentment, and control. Rangan highlights the dangers of addictive habits stemming from internal fractures and shares practices for fostering authentic self-expression, ultimately showing that embracing who you are brings both relief and sustainable joy.
172 snips
Oct 29, 2025 • 57min
The Habit That Changes EVERYTHING | Nick Thompson
Nick Thompson, CEO of The Atlantic and author of The Running Ground, shares insights from his journey as a competitive runner. He discusses how running became a mental-health practice that nurtures resilience and discipline. Nick reflects on his complicated relationship with his father and how daily running helped him to build structure amidst chaos. The conversation delves into the importance of habits in parenting and the unique endurance that can develop with age, making a case for running as a life-altering ritual.
69 snips
Oct 29, 2025 • 4min
It’s A Thinking Person’s Game
Life’s complexities demand thoughtful wisdom to navigate emotional challenges. Ryan Holiday argues that true understanding isn't given but earned through effort. He shares insights from his new book, stressing the importance of Stoicism in daily decisions. By tackling everyday dilemmas, he highlights how Stoic principles can lead to a more fulfilling life. It’s a journey of personal growth and reflective thinking, reminding us that wisdom requires dedication.
152 snips
Oct 28, 2025 • 11min
It Can Make You Great | Accepting What Is
Discover the unique virtues of Marcus Aurelius, including restraint and compassion, that set him apart as a leader. Explore how Stoicism provides practical tools for mastering emotions and achieving meaningful goals. The discussion contrasts the Stoic ideal of acceptance with the modern serenity prayer. Learn from Epictetus about wishing for events to be as they occur and question whether unconditional acceptance of injustice is ever appropriate. Find out how to balance acceptance with the drive for progress in your life.
