

The Daily Dad
Daily Dad
The audio companion to DailyDad.com’s daily email meditations on fatherhood, read by Ryan Holiday. Each daily reading will help you find the wisdom, inner strength, and good humor you need in order to be a great dad. Learn from historical figures and contemporary fathers how to do your most important job. Find more at dailydad.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 21, 2025 • 4min
This Is Your Advantage Now
Parenthood can cut career time, but it also offers unexpected advantages. A new sense of urgency and clearer priorities emerge when raising a family. Parents learn to set stronger boundaries, saying no to distractions to protect family time. This journey fosters resilience and enhances time management skills. Embrace the tools and community available to thrive in this role, transforming challenges into strengths for both parents and children.

Nov 20, 2025 • 3min
Do You Need To Be Doing This Right Now?
Kids might seem rude or entitled, but their behavior often signals a need for attention. Parents are encouraged to rethink their priorities and focus on being present. By putting down distractions like phones, caregivers can reconnect and respond better to their children's needs. This fresh perspective can transform parenting dynamics, fostering deeper relationships.

Nov 19, 2025 • 4min
Embrace What Your Family Is In This Moment
Reflect on the power of old photos to foster patience and compassion in parenting. Embrace the reality of a home that's lively and lived-in, drowning out the pressure for perfection. Parenting is messy, and that's okay! Discover how accepting imperfections can lead to a more joyful family life. Tune in for insights that celebrate the beautiful chaos of raising kids.

Nov 18, 2025 • 5min
They Are Jealous of You
In this episode, the discussion emphasizes the beauty and rarity of parenting despite its challenges. A notable reflection from Bob Odenkirk highlights how parenting can provide daily purpose and meaning. The host urges listeners to cherish each moment and not rush through this fleeting phase of life. It’s a stirring reminder to embrace the messiness of parenting, as many would trade anything to relive those precious years.

12 snips
Nov 17, 2025 • 4min
They Just Need You to Do This
Parents face the reality of their children experiencing sadness, heartbreak, and failure. Understanding that tears are simply facts can lighten the emotional burden. Instead of reacting defensively, listening is key to helping kids process their feelings. Exploring family stories can create meaningful connections and memories. Join a community for valuable parenting tools and insights. Embrace the journey of parenthood with empathy and support.

41 snips
Nov 15, 2025 • 12min
A Surprising Perspective On Parenting From A Billionaire
Self-made billionaire Robert Rosenkranz shares his insights on parenting, emphasizing that success doesn't change what children truly need. He discusses the importance of presence over wealth and offers a Stoic perspective on parenting—acknowledging limited control over adult children's choices. Rosenkranz stresses the significance of providing possibilities rather than imposing expectations, urging parents to embrace their children’s individuality for stronger relationships. His unique take on ambition and experience sparks a thought-provoking conversation.

Nov 14, 2025 • 4min
You’re Going To Stick With That?
Parenting can feel overwhelming in a rapidly changing world. It challenges long-held beliefs and demands growth. Ryan Holiday shares a powerful example from Dwayne Wade's supportive journey with his daughter Zaya. This highlights the importance of evolving as a parent. Discover how embracing change can foster a healthier relationship with your children. Tune in for insights on navigating these generational shifts.

Nov 13, 2025 • 4min
You Shouldn’t Expect Anything Different
Explore the dynamics of parenting expectations and why we often feel surprised by our children's behavior. Discover how embracing the natural, noisy, and messy actions of kids can lead to more patience and understanding. Get insights from Epictetus on aligning expectations with reality, emphasizing love and encouragement over frustration. Learn about what children truly need from their parents and how to cultivate a supportive environment for growth.

6 snips
Nov 12, 2025 • 5min
You Are Not a Bad Parent
Parents often struggle with overwhelming self-criticism. Discover why it’s common to feel like you're not measuring up. Embrace the notion that occasional mistakes don’t define your parenting. Ryan Holiday shares a Stoic perspective to help reshape how we view ourselves. Plus, learn about a supportive community where parents can connect and share resources. It's a journey towards understanding and encouragement!

Nov 11, 2025 • 4min
Reflect On Yourself First
The discussion begins with a thought-provoking look at why kids often appear selfish, uncovering common challenging behaviors. It emphasizes the importance of parents reflecting on their own flaws instead of immediately blaming their children. The host urges listeners to adopt empathy and self-reflection to improve parenting. Innovative resources and community support are also highlighted as vital tools for personal growth in parenting. A must-listen for parents seeking to enhance their approach!


