

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

5 snips
Dec 20, 2025 • 22min
Raise Kids Brave Enough to Ask Questions
Join Kenny Curtis, host and author of the Greeking Out podcast, as he shares insights on raising kids curious about mythology, including favorite myths and lessons learned from stories like Romulus and Remus. Historian Ron Chernow reveals the journey behind his biography of Alexander Hamilton and shares his experiences as a historical advisor for the hit musical. Expect lively discussions on the impact of myths on family and culture, along with fun anecdotes, making this a thought-provoking exploration of storytelling.

11 snips
Dec 19, 2025 • 5min
The Family That Does This Together Stays Together
Discover how family traditions create trust and communication. Shared challenges can strengthen bonds and enhance resilience among family members. Ryan shares inspiring stories, including Theodore Roosevelt's lessons on teamwork through hard walks. As the new year approaches, there's an exciting 21-day Stoic challenge inviting families to grow together. Learn how to join this transformative experience, and start making lasting memories this 2026!

5 snips
Dec 18, 2025 • 5min
It’s Not Too Late To Change Course
Navigating parenting often involves trial and error. Emphasizing that it's never too late to change course, the discussion focuses on the importance of owning mistakes. Parents often struggle to admit errors due to guilt, yet honesty fosters accountability in children. A poignant example involving Andy Kaufman's upbringing illustrates the long-term impact of misguided truths. Ultimately, embracing our flaws and apologizing can strengthen relationships and teach essential lessons.

10 snips
Dec 17, 2025 • 5min
How Are You Challenging Yourself?
Why should kids have all the fun with challenges? The conversation emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning for adults, encouraging parents to sign up for their own growth. Ryan Holiday offers practical ways to embrace new skills and improve health, while drawing on Epicurus to highlight that it's never too late. Plus, a unique New Year challenge invites families to engage together with daily stoic practices. It’s time to elevate yourself and demand the best!

4 snips
Dec 16, 2025 • 4min
They’ll Need Your Encouragement
Explore the challenges of learning new skills and how many give up too soon. Discover the fascinating concept of the Plateau of Latent Potential, where growth is often invisible before success hits. Understand why children need encouragement during their own plateaus and how fathers play a crucial role in recognizing their small achievements. Learn when it's appropriate for kids to quit and how to guide them through tough moments. This insightful discussion offers valuable parenting tools and a sense of community.

Dec 15, 2025 • 4min
You Have to Grow Up
The discussion centers around the transformative journey of parenting and the need for personal growth. Ryan Holiday emphasizes that becoming a parent is not just about responsibilities but a call to maturity. Prioritizing family needs becomes essential as one navigates this new role. The podcast also encourages listeners to embrace community and seek out supportive parenting tools, offering resources for this exciting yet challenging phase of life.

22 snips
Dec 13, 2025 • 14min
Pete Holmes Has a Message for Every Parent
Comedian Pete Holmes, known for his work on HBO's Crashing and the podcast You Made It Weird, dives into the often-unspoken truths about work and family. He challenges the popular excuse of ‘doing it for family,’ suggesting it can mask personal ambition. With a clever Mark Wahlberg analogy, Pete emphasizes the importance of honesty regarding our motivations. The discussion covers balancing career dreams with family needs, highlighting the trade-offs and sacrifices that define modern parenthood.

Dec 12, 2025 • 4min
There’s Nothing Average About Your Family
Ryan Holiday tackles the unsettling statistics about parenting, urging listeners to focus on their proactive role rather than average risks. He highlights how personal commitment and involvement can transform family dynamics, setting them apart from dismal data. The discussion emphasizes that while challenges exist, taking concrete actions to protect your loved ones is key. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their preparedness and strive for excellence in their family life.

Dec 11, 2025 • 4min
It Keeps Things Really Simple
Navigating the chaos of life can be overwhelming, especially for parents. Discover how having children streamlines your priorities and clarifies your purpose. Focusing on essentials like love, health, and education is key to effective parenting. Optional activities take a back seat, emphasizing that doing the basics well leads to the most significant benefits for kids. Embrace simplicity to enhance your parenting journey!

19 snips
Dec 10, 2025 • 5min
Your Kids Deserve This Version of You
Parenting demands personal growth, and embracing change is key to becoming the role model your kids need. The discussion highlights a New Year challenge featuring 21 actionable stoic practices aimed at self-improvement. Procrastination holds parents back from modeling the growth they wish to instill in their children. Listeners are encouraged to take the plunge and sign up for this transformative experience. Change begins with you, and this is the perfect moment to kickstart your journey!


