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
76 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 1h 5min
The Deadly Cost of Honor in The Wild West | Bryan Burrough
Bryan Burrough, bestselling author and Texas Monthly editor, dives into the complex world of the Wild West. They unravel how honor culture fueled gunfights, reflecting a society where violence was commonplace. Discover the allure of outlaws and the myths surrounding figures like Wyatt Earp, straddling the line between heroism and vigilantism. The conversation reveals how small disputes often escalated into gunfights, challenging our notions of virtue versus performative strength in the rugged frontier.
69 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 5min
It Asks This Of You
The Stoics believed that excellence isn’t stumbled upon; it requires effort. The discussion highlights the Four Stoic Virtues: Justice, Temperance, Wisdom, and Courage, all essential for leading a fulfilling life. Listeners learn about the ethical challenges and interconnected nature of these virtues. The speaker also teases insights from an upcoming book titled 'Wisdom Takes Work,' promising a deep dive into the practical applications of Stoic philosophy.
69 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 8min
Put The Suitcase Away | Try The Other Handle
Travel can be both enlightening and disorienting, requiring a mental reset when returning home. Discover the benefits of decluttering your mind and embracing positive perspectives. Learn how choosing the right approach in parenting and leadership can transform relationships, illustrated by George Washington's famous cherry tree story. This discussion emphasizes honesty, trust, and the power of perspective in overcoming challenges. Tune in for wisdom that applies to everyday life!
86 snips
Jun 9, 2025 • 10min
We Must Battle These Two Vices | Solve Problems Early
Explore the vices of vanity and anger through the lens of Stoicism. Learn why addressing personal weaknesses early on is crucial and how ancient wisdom can shape modern leadership. Discover the value of self-awareness in recognizing triggers before they escalate into larger issues. Emphasize the importance of making choices aligned with your values, while acknowledging the impact of external influences. Tune in for practical insights on leading a balanced and fulfilling life.
118 snips
Jun 8, 2025 • 15min
One Day Can Be A Whole Life | Ryan Holiday
Discover how a chaotic day with kids can transform into unexpected moments of joy. Through personal anecdotes, the discussion highlights the value of savoring everyday experiences. Learn to embrace the present while navigating life's uncertainties, emphasizing positivity and Stoic philosophy. Enjoy insights on parenting inspired by Stoic teachings and the art of balancing personal and professional life, all while remembering the little things that make each day meaningful.
183 snips
Jun 7, 2025 • 46min
If They Control Your Attention, They Control YOU | Chris Hayes (PT. 2)
Chris Hayes, Emmy Award-winning host and bestselling author, delves into the dark side of our attention-driven society. He discusses how virtue signaling has morphed into vice signaling, exposing the unraveling ethics in journalism. The dangers of misinformation are highlighted as Hayes critiques the superficiality of modern media consumption. He also addresses the cognitive decline caused by digital distractions and the shifting boundaries of acceptable behavior in politics, prompting listeners to reflect on personal ethics versus public expectations.
505 snips
Jun 6, 2025 • 35min
Why Are You Surprised? | 12 Stoic Strategies on How To Stop Caring What People Think
Explore the essence of Stoic philosophy through the lens of historical figures like Diogenes and Cato, who embodied authenticity against societal judgment. Discover a woman's inspiring journey into nursing, defying parental expectations. Reflect on a Roman emperor's insights into criticism and the fleeting nature of fame, emphasizing the importance of focusing on quality work. Learn to value opinions wisely and distinguish between what is within your control and what isn’t, fostering personal growth and resilience.
86 snips
Jun 5, 2025 • 12min
Do Not Let This Miracle Go To Waste | Ask Daily Stoic
Explore the extraordinary odds of existence and the miracle of life itself! Learn to embrace the present through the Stoic principle of Memento Mori, encouraging each of us to make meaningful choices. Dive into the pitfalls of superficial discussions in media and the vital need for critical thinking. Navigate parenting in a digital world with Stoic wisdom, shaping our children's futures. Lastly, analyze the stark differences between philosophers like Marcus Aurelius and Nero, warning against the perils of personality-driven power in modern politics.
14 snips
Jun 4, 2025 • 2min
This Is Why We Do It
Discover how Stoic philosophers like Cleanthes and Socrates embraced discomfort to build resilience. Learn about Marcus Aurelius's preference for a hard mattress and Seneca's regular practice of poverty. These historical figures challenge us to confront life's adversities head-on, demonstrating that enduring discomfort can lead to greater strength and fortitude.
247 snips
Jun 4, 2025 • 39min
If They Control Your Attention, They Control YOU | Chris Hayes (PT. 1)
Chris Hayes, Emmy Award-winning host of All In with Chris Hayes and bestselling author, discusses the alarming ways media influences our attention in the digital age. He uncovers how misinformation can prey on our desires, complicating our understanding of reality. The conversation dives deep into the responsibilities of media, the intricate relationship between technology and human creativity, and the ongoing challenges of maintaining mental health amidst a saturated information landscape. Reflecting on history, Hayes emphasizes the need for philosophical insights in navigating these modern dilemmas.
