
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
Jun 10, 2021 • 3min
What Are You Even Fighting About?
Family conflicts are inevitable, from sibling squabbles to spousal disagreements. Explore why many fights are over trivial matters like shoes or tattoos. Discover the importance of effective communication and the power of a heartfelt apology. Learn how prioritizing relationships over petty disputes can strengthen family bonds. Embrace the idea that not every argument is worth the energy, and focus on what truly matters.
Jun 9, 2021 • 3min
You Must Adjust Accordingly
In this discussion, the importance of adaptability in parenting takes center stage. It highlights the need for open-mindedness as a way to embrace inclusivity and diversity. Personal anecdotes reveal how integrating works by female authors can enrich a child's education. The conversation encourages fathers to continually question and evolve their views, showcasing the positive impact of such reflections on family dynamics.
Jun 8, 2021 • 3min
This is What You Wanted
Parenting brings a mix of joy and nostalgia that can be hard to navigate. The discussion highlights the emotional conflicts surrounding milestones like crawling. While you eagerly anticipate growth, you'll soon miss the simplicity of a stationary little one. Embracing these challenges helps parents cherish those fleeting moments in early childhood.
Jun 7, 2021 • 3min
It's Ok For Your Kid To Be Affected
When it comes to parenting, the fear of negative experiences can hold kids back. Embracing challenges is crucial for building resilience and empathy. The discussion challenges the norm of overprotection, arguing that setbacks are essential for growth. Plus, there's excitement over a beautiful limited edition of a book that encapsulates these life lessons. Perfect timing for a thoughtful Father's Day gift!
Jun 5, 2021 • 1h 1min
Charlie Mackesy on the Importance and the Power of Kindness
Charlie Mackesy, author of the beloved book "The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse," discusses the transformative power of kindness and self-love. He explores the rarity of true contentment, contrasting it with superficial success. The conversation delves into the importance of vulnerability and the strength of asking for help, as well as unique ways fathers can express love beyond words. Mackesy also highlights the joy of storytelling, emphasizing its profound impact on children and the nurturing of essential life lessons.
Jun 4, 2021 • 3min
Who Should Make Who Proud?
The discussion dives into the complexities of pride in parenting. It challenges the idea that children should always strive to make their parents proud. Instead, it emphasizes the importance of parents earning their children's respect through their actions. This shift in perspective not only fosters accountability but also highlights the role modeling that parents must undertake. The conversation invites listeners to reconsider their motivations and the dynamics of pride in relationships.
Jun 3, 2021 • 3min
Don't Miss The Reminders
Parents often overlook the little moments that signify their child's growth, like haircuts and new shoes. These seemingly mundane tasks are reminders to pause and appreciate the fleeting nature of childhood. It's a call to be present and cherish each milestone, underscoring the importance of deep connections as time slips away. Embracing these moments can enrich the parent-child relationship, creating lasting memories amidst everyday life.
Jun 2, 2021 • 4min
Is It Really As Bad As You Say?
This discussion delves into the mindset of hyper-vigilant parents, revealing how their obsession with success can lead to unnecessary stress. It highlights the often-overlooked privileges that fuel this anxiety. The conversation encourages a shift towards a calmer parenting style, promoting a more supportive environment where children can thrive and enjoy their childhood despite societal pressures.
Jun 1, 2021 • 3min
Where Do They Learn To Judge?
In this episode, the host dives into how seemingly casual remarks can profoundly influence children's views on judgment and kindness. Discussions range from offhand comments about spending habits to jokes about celebrity appearances. The emphasis is on the lessons parents inadvertently teach through their attitudes and conversations. The importance of fostering open-mindedness and compassion in children is highlighted, urging listeners to be more mindful of their daily words and interactions.
May 31, 2021 • 2min
This Makes It Harder
The discussion highlights the power of being fully present with children. It warns against the distractions of multitasking, emphasizing that attentive parenting can turn mundane moments into memorable experiences. The host shares insights on reducing frustrations and building stronger emotional connections, making the journey of parenthood more enriching.