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
88 snips
Oct 21, 2025 • 11min
The Moment When This is More Precious Than Gold | Build Up, Don't Tear Down
Wisdom is more valuable than gold during life’s crucial moments. A new book emphasizes that true leadership involves building others up rather than tearing them down. Ryan highlights how effective leaders inspire and persuade, drawing lessons from historical figures. He stresses the importance of cultivating patience and kindness, especially in leadership roles. Practical advice includes staying calm and focusing on results to encourage others. Ultimately, the journey to wisdom and leadership is one of hard work and self-improvement.
93 snips
Oct 20, 2025 • 9min
This Is What You Must Be Chasing | Marks Of The Good Life
Wisdom is more than just being smart or creative; it requires cultivation and application. Historical examples illustrate how wisdom can shape our lives. The importance of virtue is highlighted as a source of meaning, with Stoic principles guiding us toward a meaningful existence. Ryan discusses practical responsibilities, like protecting loved ones, and the idea that true life's meaning is found in our actions. The cardinal virtues are presented as essential for a fulfilling life, inspiring listeners to reflect on their own moral journeys.
446 snips
Oct 19, 2025 • 29min
How Smart People Become Stupid
Why do smart people fall for foolish ideas? Ego and overconfidence can cloud judgment, a trap even the brightest minds can fall into. A lack of humility often prevents effective learning, while burnout can lead to poor decisions. Ryan explores the importance of listening to advisors and maintaining a balanced information diet. Historical networks show how accountability can sharpen judgment. Ultimately, empathy and ongoing effort are vital for cultivating wisdom.
120 snips
Oct 18, 2025 • 49min
Every Great Leader Has THIS Secret Weapon | Les Snead (Los Angeles Rams GM)
Les Snead, General Manager of the Los Angeles Rams and a seasoned NFL executive, shares his insights on leadership and team culture. He introduces the concept of 'panic rules'—principles to maintain clarity during chaos. Snead emphasizes the importance of mentoring, patience in career advancement, and the notion that growth can't be rushed. They discuss the legacy of helping others succeed and the role of reading in shaping leadership. With clever anecdotes and thought-provoking ideas, Snead reveals how great coaches simplify principles for players under pressure.
262 snips
Oct 17, 2025 • 17min
This Is Freedom | 1 Habit That Will CHANGE Your Life
Discover how Stoic wisdom can lead to true freedom. Explore the transformative power of prioritizing sleep for enhanced productivity. Learn about Marcus Aurelius's walking routine, which offered him solace and clarity. Uncover the connection between walking and mental wellness, as well as the impact of picking up trash during walks as a moral act. Delve into the historical significance of walking in fostering creativity and thought, and hear personal anecdotes about the joy of walking with family.
99 snips
Oct 16, 2025 • 6min
BONUS | The One Thing You’ll Regret More Than Failure - Daniel Pink
Regret is a universal theme, linking diverse experiences across 134 countries. Daniel Pink reveals how our regrets often reflect what we truly value: stability, growth, goodness, and love. He discusses common foundation regrets related to money and health, which can undermine long-term stability. Boldness regrets also emerge, highlighting missed opportunities due to fear of taking chances. Interestingly, inaction becomes a more significant source of regret as we age, leaving us to ponder: is failing to act a greater regret than acting?
65 snips
Oct 16, 2025 • 16min
It’s A Brilliant Flash | Ask Daily Stoic
Explore the fleeting nature of life and how Stoicism can create meaning in our short time here. Delve into the importance of daily rituals and healthy choices, like Whole Foods, for family well-being. Discover how Stoic principles bolster mental health and resilience, transforming obstacles into opportunities. Learn about radical acceptance and the power of focusing on what’s within our control. Join an enlightening discussion on how our perceptions shape our experiences and the choices we can make for a more empowering outlook.
57 snips
Oct 15, 2025 • 29min
How Stoic Thinking Built a Super Bowl Team | Les Snead (Los Angeles Rams GM)
In this engaging conversation, Les Snead, General Manager of the Los Angeles Rams, shares insights from his journey in building a Super Bowl-winning team. He discusses his 'panic rules' for calm decision-making during chaos and the importance of aggressive strategies in winning rather than just preventing losses. Snead also reflects on avoiding complacency after success, emphasizing the significance of focusing on individual excellence and long-term goals while filtering out social media noise.
85 snips
Oct 15, 2025 • 3min
This is How You Know It’s Working
Discover the signs that show your Stoic practice is truly taking effect. Fewer arguments, increased self-kindness, and a sense of inner peace indicate progress. Delve into the idea that wisdom is not a destination but a lifelong journey, drawing insights from Seneca and Marcus Aurelius. Ryan Holiday shares practical tips and encouraging thoughts to motivate your Stoic practice, helping you recognize its impact on your daily life.
125 snips
Oct 14, 2025 • 12min
This Answers The Great Unanswered Question | Make Honesty Your Only Policy
The discussion opens with the story of Commodus, revealing the pitfalls of leaders ignoring advice. Ryan emphasizes the importance of mentorship and collaboration for wisdom, citing examples like Lincoln's diverse cabinet. Honesty is presented as a core Stoic principle, with insights from Marcus Aurelius on straightforwardness. The conversation touches on balancing candor with temperance and the value of celebrating friends' successes, highlighting how genuine support strengthens virtue.
