Person
Every book Arnold Schwarzenegger recommended on podcasts
Arnold Schwarzenegger is an iconic actor, former governor, and author whose appearances on programs like The Daily Stoic and People I (Mostly) Admire highlight a lifelong dedication to physical and mental discipline, utility, and continuous learning. Throughout his podcast discussions, Schwarzenegger reflected on the formative habits of his youth, recalling how a mentor encouraged him and others to carry a book under their arm and read daily, even if limited to a single page, thereby emphasizing education alongside physical training. He also engaged directly with classical philosophy, frequently discussing Marcus Aurelius's Meditations. Schwarzenegger noted how a particular line from the Stoic text—emphasizing that it is a shame for the mind to give up while the body still functions and stressing the importance of finding a way to be useful—resonated deeply with his personal philosophy. Furthermore, he admired the historical practice of dedicating a work to supporters and listing their names, a tradition he sought to emulate in his own writing. In a lighter context, he also referenced the Bible when defending the intense action and violence in his film Terminator against critical backlash. Across these discussions, Schwarzenegger bridges the worlds of physical culture and intellectual discipline, utilizing literature and classical philosophy to reinforce a worldview grounded in purpose, hard work, and continuous self-improvement.
Books recommended by Arnold Schwarzenegger
-
It's a Book!
It's a Book! by Lane Smith is a humorous children's picture book that contrasts traditional reading with modern technology through a dialogue between a monkey and a jackass.
Recommended“He encouraged us to carry a book under our arm and read every day, even if it's just a page.”
Where to get it
-
How to Read the Bible
How to Read the Bible by James L.
Discussed“I said do you have the Bible at home do you let your kids read it I said well you know this is the most violent book there is probably ever been published”
Where to get it
-
Meditations
Meditations by Marcus Aurelius is a collection of personal journals written by the Roman emperor, offering timeless Stoic philosophy on duty, resilience, and self-reflection.
Discussed“Marcus Aurelius’s line resonates: it's a shame for the mind to give up when the body is still going; as long as you're here, find a way to be useful. I appreciate your writing about Marcus Aurelius.”
Where to get it
Books Arnold Schwarzenegger wrote
Appearances
| Episode | Podcast | Date | Books |
|---|---|---|---|
| 122. Arnold Schwarzenegger Has Some Advice for You | People I (Mostly) Admire | 2024-01-06 | 1 |
| Arnold Schwarzenegger On The Power Of Physical And Mental Discipline | The Daily Stoic | 2023-11-14 | 1 |
| Arnold Schwarzenegger On Finding Ways To Be Useful | The Daily Stoic | 2023-10-14 | 3 |
Other mentions (3: passing, ad reads, own books)
“I remember Ted Turner would always say, 'Early to bed, early to rise, work like hell, and advertise.' In my book, I say, 'You know, advertise, sell, sell, sell.'”
“That's why I said in my book, 'Don't listen to the naysayers,' because I realized very quickly anytime you have a vision that is very much out there, people say, 'This is impossible; this can't be done.'”
“That’s a key reason I wrote 'Be Useful': to inspire people to pursue success and achievement without a specific blueprint.”