Episode · The Daily Stoic · 2026-09-29
Books mentioned on You Should Be In The Thick of It | How Oprah Discovered Stoicism
How are you making your impact felt? How are you bringing your beliefs—and virtues—into the world?
Books mentioned, in the order they came up
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Go Gentle
Go Gentle by Maria Semple is a contemporary novel heavily inspired by the practical philosophy of Stoicism.
Recommended“Well, if you've read Maria Semple's new book, Go Gentle, it's this novel inspired by Stoicism.”
Where to get it
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The Obstacle Is the Way
The Obstacle Is the Way by Ryan Holiday is a popular self-improvement book that draws on ancient Stoic philosophy to teach readers how to turn everyday trials, hardships, and setbacks into triumphs.
Discussed“Now, when I read Obstacle is the Way, I was struck by how simple the idea is and yet how radical it also becomes when you actually try to live it.”
Where to get it
Other mentions in this episode (3) — ad reads, self-promotion and passing references, never counted
Own book Lives of the Stoics
“Tell the story in lives of the Stoics.”
Own book The Obstacle Is the Way
“I remember my book, The Obstacles Away, made its way through professional sports.”
Own book The Obstacle Is the Way
“So anyway, somehow Oprah went from Maria to my books. And I know she went to my books because as we were talking, I could see Oprah's marked up copy of The Obstacle is the Way.”