
The 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.
Latest episodes

14 snips
May 31, 2025 • 18min
15 Life-Changing Questions for Parents (In 15 Minutes)
Discover how the questions we ask ourselves can transform our parenting. Explore the profound impact of ordinary moments and the importance of being fully present with our children. Learn about nurturing resilience and viewing children as essential parts of our lives. Dive into the benefits of walking together to strengthen bonds and redefine what success in parenting truly means – prioritizing family connections over traditional achievements.

May 30, 2025 • 4min
You Make Debts Your Children Must Pay
Dive into the profound impact of parental choices on future generations. Uncover the heart-wrenching histories of Theodore Roosevelt and Rudyard Kipling, who faced unimaginable loss. Their stories remind us that our expectations can shape our children's paths. It's a call to reflect on the legacy we create and how it molds the next generation's identity.

9 snips
May 29, 2025 • 5min
It Takes As Long As It Takes
Every child has a unique journey that doesn't conform to societal milestones. The discussion emphasizes the importance of patience and understanding in parenting. Listeners hear personal anecdotes that highlight the diverse paths children take in their development. The host reassures parents to focus on providing support rather than succumbing to anxiety about comparisons. It’s a heartfelt reminder that nurturing a child's individuality is key to their growth.

9 snips
May 28, 2025 • 4min
Everyday A Little Goes Away
Childhood is a continuous journey, not a destination. Emphasizing the importance of living in the moment, the conversation draws on ancient wisdom from Seneca. It encourages parents to cherish each day with their kids rather than fixating on future milestones. This approach fosters deeper connections and appreciation for the fleeting nature of childhood.

12 snips
May 27, 2025 • 5min
Teach Them To Be Tough (But Practical)
This discussion delves into the delicate balance of fostering toughness and practicality in children. It highlights the significance of resilience, using personal stories to underscore essential life skills. Preparing for the future is key, with insights on financial protections like wills and life insurance. The speakers also emphasize the value of allowing kids to face challenges while providing guidance in making smart decisions. The message encourages mindful parenting that nurtures both strength and intellect.

8 snips
May 26, 2025 • 4min
Epithets For Your Kid
What kind of qualities are you nurturing in your child? The discussion delves into defining parenting goals through intentional choices. Inspired by Marcus Aurelius, it highlights the importance of guiding principles in shaping a child's character. Parents are encouraged to think about the specific traits they want to cultivate, emphasizing the power of intentionality in development. Tune in for insights on how to better support your child's journey of self-discovery!

21 snips
May 24, 2025 • 14min
Curious Kids Are Built, Not Born | Ryan Holiday
Explore how long car rides can become exciting learning adventures. Discover the magic of AI articles that spark curiosity about everything from capybaras to historical figures. Dive into the importance of tuning into children's interests, whether it's boats or aircraft carriers, and how museums can inspire meaningful exploration. Learn how thoughtful conversations and modern technology transform everyday moments into educational experiences. This journey in nurturing curiosity emphasizes that curiosity is actively built through engaging and diverse encounters.

4 snips
May 23, 2025 • 5min
They Deserve This Intervention
The discussion centers on guiding teens through their rebellious phases. It emphasizes the power of compassion and understanding over strict discipline. Personal anecdotes illustrate how empathy can help young people navigate their identities. The importance of parental support in fostering growth and learning from mistakes is a key takeaway.

13 snips
May 22, 2025 • 5min
They See Through It All
Explore the delicate balance between work and parenting, and how career choices influence family dynamics. Discover the critical difference between societal definitions of success and what children truly crave—emotional support from their parents. A heartfelt father-son exchange underscores that authenticity in relationships outweighs material achievements. Gain insights on guiding your kids to discover their true selves while nurturing a fulfilling family life.

7 snips
May 21, 2025 • 5min
Where Are You Rushing To?
This discussion emphasizes the importance of cherishing every moment in parenthood, warning against the rush to reach future milestones. It advocates for a mindful approach, encouraging listeners to appreciate the beauty of the present. With insights drawn from literature and personal anecdotes, it serves as a heartfelt reminder that all time can be quality time, urging parents to slow down and savor their journey.