
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

4 snips
Feb 4, 2025 • 4min
Where To Find The Reward
Parenting isn't just about waiting for big milestones like graduations or weddings. The joys come from those small, everyday moments that often go unnoticed. Celebrate your child's laughter and growth as daily rewards. Embrace the little victories—these are what truly make the journey worthwhile.

Feb 3, 2025 • 4min
This Is What Completeness Comes From
Explore the beauty of finding fulfillment in everyday parenting moments. Discover how simple interactions and shared laughter can lead to deeper family connections. The conversation challenges traditional views of success and happiness, reminding us that life isn’t just about grand accomplishments. Instead, it's those small, seemingly mundane moments that truly enrich our lives.

7 snips
Feb 1, 2025 • 13min
Living With a Stoic | Ryan and Sam Holiday
Ryan and Sam explore the transformative power of Stoicism in their personal lives, particularly in parenting and marriage. They reflect on how Marcus Aurelius' Meditations have influenced their relationship. The duo shares humorous insights on applying timeless wisdom amidst daily chaos. They discuss navigating the unpredictable nature of parenting, emphasizing adaptability and patience. Additionally, they highlight the importance of emotional intelligence and guiding children through their emotions with a Stoic approach.

Jan 31, 2025 • 4min
Be Ready To Use This
In a chaotic world, the lessons learned from past challenges shine through, especially in parenting. The discussion emphasizes how unique hurdles, such as those posed by the pandemic, can prepare us for future obstacles. Personal experiences become invaluable tools in nurturing our children. A poignant book, 'Phosphorescence,' is mentioned, exploring joy amidst darkness. This episode is a reminder that resilience and understanding are key in guiding both ourselves and our loved ones.

4 snips
Jan 30, 2025 • 3min
They Can Hear You
Children are always listening, absorbing everything from the atmosphere around them. Conversations have a profound impact on their self-esteem and development. Parents should seize this opportunity to express love and pride, influencing their kids positively. By understanding the power of words, we can foster a nurturing environment that helps shape their perspective.

5 snips
Jan 29, 2025 • 5min
Show Them It’s Never Too Late
It’s never too late to reinvent yourself! Discover inspiring stories of individuals who achieved greatness later in life. Embrace a growth mindset and learn why self-encouragement is key. Plus, find out about a personal development challenge to kickstart your journey. Change is possible at any age!

8 snips
Jan 28, 2025 • 4min
Three Rules for Life
Discover three essential life principles inspired by Theodore Roosevelt: Courage, Justice, and Discipline. Learn how these virtues can help instill resilience and integrity in children. The discussion emphasizes facing challenges without hesitation and promoting individuality in a supportive environment. Tune in for valuable insights on parenting that draw from stoic philosophy and the wisdom of an iconic leader.

Jan 27, 2025 • 3min
It’s Happening In Your House Too
Childhood is a whirlwind that often catches parents off guard. The conversation dives into the fleeting nature of these precious years. It emphasizes the importance of cherishing every moment, as children evolve from tiny infants to independent adults in the blink of an eye. The hosts remind us that while we juggle our busy lives, the passage of time is relentless and transformative, urging listeners to be mindful of this beautiful journey.

20 snips
Jan 25, 2025 • 15min
Connect With Them This Way | Ryan Holiday
Explore how diving into your kids' passions can spark your own creativity. Discover the journey of bonding over interests like the musical 'Hamilton,' which combines history and art appreciation. Personal anecdotes illustrate the joy of connecting through shared experiences, enhancing family relationships. The episode emphasizes the importance of engaging with your children's perspectives, fostering a nurturing environment that promotes growth and meaningful conversations.

8 snips
Jan 24, 2025 • 3min
They’re More Important (And You Know It)
The discussion emphasizes the importance of prioritizing time with children, reminding listeners that life's distractions can wait. It highlights that moments spent playing, talking, or simply being present are irreplaceable. The sentiment is clear: quality time is paramount in nurturing relationships with kids.