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
163 snips
Apr 1, 2025 • 8min
How To Work Through The Unimaginable | What Can Go Wrong...Might
Explore the power of resilience through Stoic philosophy as life throws curveballs. Discover how Marcus Aurelius confronted personal tragedies with wisdom. The concept of 'premeditatio malorum' teaches us to prepare mentally for adversity. This introspective approach encourages perseverance, reminding us that challenges can be stepping stones to growth. Armed with these insights, we can navigate the unimaginable with strength and clarity.
121 snips
Mar 31, 2025 • 9min
Today, You Have Two Choices | You're a Product of Your Training
Explore the power of choice and self-acceptance amidst societal pressures. Discover how personal resilience can shape happiness, even during life's toughest moments. Learn about the dangers of chasing unattainable goals and the importance of setting boundaries. Understand how training and positive habits impact our character and future actions. Finally, dive into the significance of early training and proactive efforts in developing abilities that define us in challenging situations.
98 snips
Mar 30, 2025 • 18min
Win The Day | Tim Ferriss, George Raveling, & Ryan Holiday
Tim Ferriss hosts George Raveling, a basketball icon and author of "What You're Made For," who possesses the original copy of Martin Luther King Jr.’s "I Have a Dream" speech. They dive into George's incredible encounter with Dr. King and the historical significance of the speech. The conversation reveals insights on mentorship, the importance of making thoughtful choices, and strategies for maximizing daily opportunities. Through lessons on self-acceptance and choosing happiness, Raveling inspires listeners to embrace life's gifts.
68 snips
Mar 29, 2025 • 45min
Texas Rangers' Josh Jung: “Win or Lose, It Can’t Wreck You”
Josh Jung, a standout third baseman for the Texas Rangers and former Texas Tech star, discusses the high-pressure world of professional baseball. He shares insights on the mental battles athletes face, emphasizing the dangers of comparison and the power of self-reflection. Jung explores the intersection of Stoicism and sports, highlighting personal growth through embracing challenges. He encourages athletes to appreciate their unique journeys while supporting teammates, ultimately aiming for resilience and a strong mindset in the face of adversity.
90 snips
Mar 28, 2025 • 7min
How Many Examples Do You Need? | This Spring Activity Will Teach You Valuable Stoic Lessons
Discover the emotional depth of Marcus Aurelius as the hosts discuss how vulnerability shows strength, not weakness. Personal stories reveal the joy of familial moments and life’s fleeting beauty. Explore the metaphor of blackberry picking, emphasizing patience and the changing seasons of life. A walk in nature is also highlighted as a way to spark curiosity and connect with the world. Plus, there's an initiative to inspire listeners with daily Stoic wisdom.
83 snips
Mar 27, 2025 • 19min
The Problem Is Within You—And So Is The Solution | Ask Daily Stoic
Explore how happiness is shaped more by mindset than circumstance, as the Stoics teach. Discover the resilience and hope that figures like Marcus Aurelius embodied during tough times. Dive into the intriguing contrasts between Stoicism and Epicureanism, revealing their unique approaches to well-being. Learn how Stoic principles can enhance family life and the importance of storytelling in leadership. Finally, reflect on how historical narratives shape societal values and virtues, inspiring modern leadership.
78 snips
Mar 26, 2025 • 45min
Texas Rangers' Josh Jung: "The Moment You Overthink, You’ve Already Lost"
Professional baseball player Josh Jung joins to discuss the mental game behind athletic success. Known for his remarkable debut home run, Jung shares how self-talk and mindset are crucial for overcoming self-doubt. He highlights the impact of the pitch clock on focus and the significance of maintaining personal routines to combat pressure. Balancing identity and performance is also key, as Jung emphasizes the importance of mental health and distinguishing self-worth from athletic achievements. Get insights on trusting instincts and avoiding the pitfalls of overthinking!
10 snips
Mar 26, 2025 • 3min
Who Will You Emulate?
The conversation dives into the contrasting legacies of Cicero and Cato, two prominent Stoic figures. It examines how Cicero preserved Stoic teachings with eloquence, while Cato exemplified the ideals of Stoicism through his life choices. This comparison prompts deep reflection on the impact of written philosophy versus lived experience. Listeners are invited to consider who they might choose to emulate and what that decision reveals about their own values.
52 snips
Mar 25, 2025 • 9min
This Way Is Not For The Weak | Say No To The Need To Impress
Dive into the power of strength and momentum as we explore how to turn obstacles into opportunities for growth. Discover the pitfalls of seeking validation through social media and why it’s crucial to prioritize self-fulfillment in today's digital world. Learn to embrace self-worth over external approval, with wisdom from ancient philosophers like Marcus Aurelius. Rejecting external validation can lead to a more authentic and fulfilling life, promoting integrity and self-approval over societal judgment.
99 snips
Mar 24, 2025 • 9min
Don’t Let Them Flood You | There is Philosophy in Everything
The discussion begins with the importance of mental health and therapy, emphasizing accessible solutions like virtual therapy. It then dives into history, drawing parallels between Nero's chaotic leadership and contemporary figures, highlighting the need for unity during turmoil. Practical applications of Stoicism come to the forefront, with insights from philosophers like Epictetus, encouraging listeners to live out these teachings daily. Ultimately, the conversation celebrates community and the appreciation of the present moment as key elements of personal growth.
