

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

Aug 30, 2025 • 16min
Talking About Taylor Swift Turned Into a Parenting Lesson | Ryan and Sam Holiday
Dive into the quirky blend of Taylor Swift, parenting, and the creative grind! Discover how the pressures of public recognition turn family outings into fun competitions. The hosts humorously critique media obsessions while reflecting on the balance of intrinsic motivation versus external expectations. As they prepare for book launches, they share heartfelt insights on how parenting reshapes their views on success. It's a lively chat about juggling creativity and family life—all through the lens of pop culture!

5 snips
Aug 29, 2025 • 4min
Isn’t This What We Want Ourselves?
The discussion highlights the struggle children face in finding their place and self-worth. It emphasizes the importance of parental support and continuous learning. Drawing inspiration from Marcus Aurelius and Eleanor Roosevelt, the conversation underscores how nurturing guidance can profoundly impact a child's confidence. Ultimately, it stresses the responsibility parents have in affirming their children's value, especially during tough times.

6 snips
Aug 28, 2025 • 6min
We Have To Do This For Them
Discover how to ignite curiosity in children by drawing inspiration from the Wright brothers' innovative spirit. Learn the significance of nurturing their interests without the pressure of profitability. Explore the essential role of mentorship in building resilience and critical thinking skills. This discussion also highlights the latest insights from The Stoic Virtues series, linking timeless wisdom to effective parenting strategies. It’s all about fostering a love for exploration and growth in the next generation!

6 snips
Aug 27, 2025 • 5min
Who Decides Who Gets What?
Navigating the balance between work and family can be a daunting task for parents. Insights from a community of fathers highlight practical strategies for prioritizing family life. The discussion centers around effective time management and the ultimate gift of parenting tools. Listeners will find inspiration in the shared experiences, making it easier to achieve a harmonious work-life balance.

11 snips
Aug 26, 2025 • 5min
Yelling Doesn’t Undo It, You Know
Explore the importance of pausing before reacting when parenting. Discover how thoughtful communication fosters trust instead of resorting to yelling. Learn that guiding your children through their mistakes creates a more meaningful connection. Delve into practical tools that enhance parenting skills and nurture creativity.

10 snips
Aug 25, 2025 • 4min
This Is What They Were Thinking
This discussion dives into the fascinating world of children's impulsive behavior. It highlights how these actions are tied to their developmental stages, urging parents to understand and appreciate their kids' emotional instincts. The conversation emphasizes the importance of providing the right tools and support for children's growth. Overall, it's a valuable insight into parenting, offering a fresh perspective on the ups and downs of raising young minds.

12 snips
Aug 23, 2025 • 14min
Every Question Is an Invitation — Accept It | Ryan Holiday
A child’s innocent question about Godzilla sparks a fascinating dialogue on complex topics like intellectual property. The conversation delves into making intricate ideas digestible for young minds while highlighting the importance of engaging with children creatively. Humor and life lessons surface as parents navigate the balance between fun and serious discussions, exploring the ethical stakes in creativity. Ultimately, it’s a heartwarming reminder of the joy and value in deep conversations with our children.

6 snips
Aug 22, 2025 • 5min
Would You Do It Again?
Explore the emotional challenges of parenting and the moments we all regret. Learn about the transformative power of pausing before reacting in difficult situations. Discover a unique medallion designed to help parents cultivate thoughtful responses. Delve into how taking a moment can create clarity and positively impact your family dynamics.

5 snips
Aug 21, 2025 • 4min
Is Your Ego Distracting You From This?
The discussion tackles how ego can cloud our judgment in parenting and daily life. It emphasizes the necessity of self-reflection and encourages listeners to confront their own egos instead of just pointing out others'. Real-life examples showcase the impact of ego on relationships, promoting personal growth as a solution. The podcast also hints at resources for enhancing parenting skills and a supportive community.

5 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 5min
It’s Not As Important As You Tell Yourself
Explore the delicate balance between ambition and family. Learn from historical figures who regretted sacrificing personal relationships for success. Discover why the most important moments often come from time spent with loved ones. Shift your focus from chasing accolades to cherishing meaningful connections. This discussion inspires a reassessment of what truly holds value in our lives.