
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

Jan 15, 2025 • 4min
It Won’t Come Easy
Struggle plays a crucial role in children's development, fostering resilience and independence. Parents face challenges watching their kids navigate tough times, but these experiences are essential for growth. A thought-provoking poem highlights the importance of overcoming hardships. Plus, learn how to embrace teachable moments with children as they emerge stronger from adversity. Embrace the journey and discover the transformative power of difficulty!

Jan 14, 2025 • 4min
Speak In This Language
Discover how love can transcend communication barriers between parents and children. The discussion dives into the challenges of understanding at various developmental stages. Practical advice is shared to enhance family connections. Literary insights add depth, emphasizing actions over words. Tune in for enlightening tips on strengthening those precious bonds!

Jan 13, 2025 • 4min
This Is What You’ll Have To Manage
Parenting requires us to trust our instincts and maintain our composure amid chaos. The discussion delves into Rudyard Kipling's poem 'If,' emphasizing its timeless wisdom for both parents and children. Key virtues such as patience and integrity are highlighted as essential for shaping the next generation. This insightful conversation encourages a deeper reflection on the challenges and rewards of raising kids while staying true to one's values.

22 snips
Jan 11, 2025 • 14min
Balancing Presence At Home and Life On The Road | Benj Gershman
Benj Gershman, the bassist for the rock band O.A.R. and a mental health podcast host, shares his journey of balancing a successful music career with family life. He dives into the emotional toll of being away during key moments, the struggle of feeling disconnected from home, and the temptations of accepting more gigs. Benj reflects on the joys and challenges of returning to family after tours, emphasizing the importance of mental health awareness in navigating these complexities.

6 snips
Jan 10, 2025 • 3min
It Can Wait
The discussion highlights the value of prioritizing quality time with children. It stresses how fleeting these moments are and encourages parents to focus on what truly matters. There’s a poignant reminder that distractions can wait, but our kids won't always be around. Practical advice is shared on reclaiming time for meaningful interactions. This insightful dialogue is a call to cherish the present with our little ones.

Jan 9, 2025 • 2min
You Must Be Immune To This
Navigating parenthood today can be a daunting task, especially with societal pressures lurking around every corner. The discussion emphasizes the importance of resisting negativity and maintaining integrity to guide the next generation. It highlights how embodying positive values not only shapes children’s character but also helps parents stay true to themselves amid challenging times. The focus is on fostering resilience and virtue, ensuring that tough situations don’t lead to becoming a negative influence.

10 snips
Jan 8, 2025 • 5min
Why Not Get Better Here?
Dive into the significance of self-improvement in both parenting and personal life. The discussion emphasizes nurturing oneself and managing resources wisely. It sheds light on the common pitfalls of prioritizing superficial online interactions over meaningful relationships. Listeners are encouraged to make a conscious shift based on Stoic philosophy, ultimately aiming to enhance their roles as parents and partners while fostering genuine connections.

Jan 7, 2025 • 4min
What If They Didn’t Have To Prove It?
Imagine a world where kids focus on exploration and creativity instead of chasing trophies. The discussion highlights the importance of unconditional love in parenting. A supportive environment nurtures security and emotional well-being, leading to healthier development. The conversation dives into how joy and curiosity can become powerful motivators for children, reshaping their experiences and encouraging a richer, more fulfilling approach to life.

Jan 6, 2025 • 4min
They Need This To Grow Up
Children thrive when they embrace struggle! The discussion highlights how challenges foster resilience and personal growth. Parents play a vital role by supporting their kids while also allowing them to tackle obstacles independently. A special medallion serves as a reminder to slow down and seize those essential teachable moments. Struggling is not just a hurdle; it’s a pathway to maturity and strength!

Jan 4, 2025 • 14min
Teaching Kids the Powers and Pitfalls of AI | Ryan Holiday
Explore the transformative impact of AI on family life and education. Discover how to engage kids in creative learning through playful activities like unique coloring pages made with AI. Dive into lessons on prompt engineering, emphasizing the balance of creativity and communication. Unpack the ethical considerations and limitations of AI while fostering critical thinking in children. This insightful discussion highlights parenting strategies that harness technology positively.