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
29 snips
Mar 6, 2025 • 13min
How To Keep Hope Alive | Ask Daily Stoic
The power of hope shines as it can be as simple as being present for someone in need. Balancing quitting and perseverance takes center stage, with insights on knowing when to step back for self-care. The inspiring journey of a former NBA player highlights the profound impact of kindness on resilience. Spring symbolizes growth and renewal, leading to the introduction of an uplifting challenge. Finally, critiques of Stoicism reveal its complexities and the importance of merging resilience with the wisdom of knowing when to let go.
99 snips
Mar 5, 2025 • 43min
George Raveling on Defying The Odds and Changing The Game of Basketball Forever (PT. 1)
Ryan Holiday chats with George Raveling, a legendary figure in basketball and civil rights. George shares captivating stories from his unique journey, including his interactions with presidents and his pivotal role in basketball's evolution, particularly with Nike. He reflects on his experiences mentoring iconic athletes and the importance of journaling in shaping his perspective. Listeners will be enthralled by tales of his unexpected stewardship of Dr. King's 'I Have a Dream' speech, showcasing a life dedicated to breaking barriers and inspiring change.
7 snips
Mar 5, 2025 • 3min
Is That Still Allowed?
Explore the life of Agrippinus, a Stoic who defied tyranny during Nero's reign. Discover how his emphasis on individuality relates to modern societal pressures. The conversation encourages listeners to embrace their true selves, advocating for authenticity in a conformist world. Stand out and stand up, even when facing adversity!
56 snips
Mar 4, 2025 • 9min
Will You Seize This Reminder? Or Let It Pass? | What Expensive Things Cost
Explore the emotional toll of material ownership and how costly possessions can weigh us down. Reflect on what truly brings happiness rather than burdening ourselves with things that disrupt peace. Challenge yourself to declutter both your mind and your environment, striving for a more fulfilling life. Spring is the perfect time to rethink your routines and assumptions, ultimately becoming the person you aspire to be.
67 snips
Mar 3, 2025 • 10min
It’s Given Us More Of Ourselves | (Dis)integration
Adversity unlocks hidden strengths we never knew we had. Embracing challenges through the lens of 'amor fati' can transform obstacles into fuel for growth. The podcast highlights the importance of self-awareness in maintaining personal integrity amid life’s chaos. Compartmentalization can lead to disintegration, so it’s vital to live authentically. It encourages taking time for self-reflection, emphasizing that true fulfillment comes from aligning our values with our actions.
110 snips
Mar 2, 2025 • 12min
Seneca on Worldliness and Retirement
Seneca, a renowned Roman Stoic philosopher, shares his profound insights on stepping back from societal pressures to attain true fulfillment. He emphasizes the importance of retirement as a means of finding peace away from the chaos of fame and wealth. Through his wisdom, Seneca critiques materialism and advocates for nurturing genuine friendships, suggesting that true happiness lies in intentional living. This wisdom resonates deeply with modern challenges, offering a timeless guide for those seeking a simpler, more contented life.
62 snips
Mar 1, 2025 • 1h 2min
Rising from Ashes | John Vaillant on Building Resiliency From Destruction
John Vaillant, acclaimed author of works like Fire Weather and The Tiger, joins to discuss how crises and natural disasters can ignite creativity and resilience. He shares the significance of wildfires in personal and ecological regeneration, and reflects on the emotional highs and lows of his Pulitzer nomination. The conversation dives into the impacts of modern communication on personal expression and the necessity of embracing uncertainty in creative endeavors. Vaillant’s insights on leadership and adaptability further underscore the transformative power of challenges.
44 snips
Feb 28, 2025 • 54min
[BONUS]: Ernest Green From The Little Rock Nine | A Black History Month Reflection on Courage
Ernest Green, one of the Little Rock Nine, shares his remarkable journey as the first African American to graduate from Little Rock Central High School. He reflects on the courage required to confront systemic racism and the emotional challenges faced during desegregation. Green emphasizes the need to embrace uncomfortable truths in history and advocates for education as a means to dismantle segregation. He discusses the economic costs of racism and expresses hope for a more inclusive future, reminding us of the power of storytelling in shaping societal change.
303 snips
Feb 28, 2025 • 28min
Get Over This Bogus Notion | How To Journal Like A Stoic Philosopher
Exploring the importance of emotional expression, the discussion challenges traditional masculinity by highlighting the power of vulnerability. Journaling emerges as a key tool for spiritual resilience, offering practical tips to build a reflective habit. The transformative impact of journaling is underscored, encouraging meaningful questioning for deeper self-awareness. Finally, the episode advocates for regular engagement with journaling, drawing inspiration from Stoic greats like Marcus Aurelius to foster personal growth and a sense of community.
82 snips
Feb 27, 2025 • 14min
Every Day Could Be The Final Quarter | Ask Daily Stoic
Life is fleeting, and every day should be cherished. A transformative experience can shift our perspective on what truly matters. Stoic philosophy plays a vital role in shaping resilient leaders, especially in times of crisis. Historical figures showcase the power of Stoicism during their darkest moments. The pandemic highlighted the necessity of resilience and growth, encouraging self-reflection through practices like journaling. Embracing adversity can lead to profound personal change.
