
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
Apr 3, 2020 • 3min
You Have One Job Today
In this enlightening discussion, the focus pivots around timeless wisdom from Rudyard Kipling’s poem 'If'. It highlights the vital lessons of resilience and integrity for parenting. Emphasis is placed on how these virtues can shape a child's character. The conversation encourages fathers to incorporate these principles into daily life, reinforcing the importance of maintaining composure and courage in the face of challenges. It's an inspiring call to cultivate strength in the next generation.
Apr 2, 2020 • 4min
What You’re Doing Is Important
Navigating fatherhood today can be a minefield of expectations and stereotypes. Modern dads are challenged to break free from outdated notions of masculinity and embrace their vital role in shaping future generations. The discussion delves into the confusion many feel, from societal pressures to extreme viewpoints on parenting. Blake Masters shares an uplifting perspective, expressing pride in being a father and emphasizing the positive impact dads can have. It's a refreshing take on the joys and responsibilities of raising children in today's world.
Apr 1, 2020 • 3min
Imagine What This Is Like For A Kid
Exploring the complexities of parenting, the discussion reflects on how adult perspectives can alter the perception of childhood experiences. It highlights the dual challenge of understanding one's own parents while considering the emotional landscape of children living in the present. Listeners are prompted to confront their flaws and consider how their own behaviors impact their kids. The conversation serves as a reminder that childhood perceptions of normalcy are shaped by parental actions, making self-reflection essential for growth.
Mar 31, 2020 • 3min
Here’s The Only Silver Lining
In challenging times, the importance of family shines through. Listeners are reminded to cherish moments spent together, whether playing games or watching movies. The fragility of stability makes us appreciate our loved ones even more. It's an opportunity to strengthen relationships and create lasting memories. Focus on what truly matters amidst the chaos, as this period can be a chance to reconnect and embrace the present.
Mar 30, 2020 • 2min
Tell Them of Cincinnatus
Discover the captivating tale of Cincinnatus, the Roman general who prioritized duty over power, saving his country before returning to his farm. Explore the timeless impact of this legend on figures like George Washington and the lessons we can glean about leadership and virtue. The discussion emphasizes the significance of storytelling in instilling courage and inspiration in children, contrasting it with today's more trivial narratives in children's literature.
Mar 27, 2020 • 3min
Your Job Is To Keep Them Safe
In times of crisis, fathers are reminded of their primal role to keep their children safe. The discussion highlights the importance of balancing physical protection with ethical leadership. They delve into the necessity of maintaining health and safety protocols during pandemics and other emergencies. The conversation also critiques societal complacency towards leadership and character flaws, urging a reassessment of what truly matters for the next generation. The themes inspire listeners to prioritize both safety and moral integrity.
Mar 26, 2020 • 3min
You Have To Help Them Discover This
Explore how pivotal moments shape passion and success in life. Discover the profound impact of parental guidance on children's journeys to find their interests. Through intriguing stories, like Einstein's compass gift and Martha Graham's dance inspiration, learn the importance of exposure to diverse experiences. Emphasize curiosity, luck, and openness in nurturing your child's exploration of possibilities. It’s about introducing serendipity—helping kids see what they love and where their talents may lie.
Mar 25, 2020 • 3min
Nobody Wins in a War of Attrition
Explore the intriguing comparison between parenting and historical battles. Discover how traditional confrontations with children often lead to stalemates, rather than resolutions. Learn about the importance of empathy and creativity in parenting, promoting rapport over force. Uncover strategies to connect with kids on a deeper level and navigate challenges with a more thoughtful approach.
Mar 24, 2020 • 2min
If They Don’t Get It From You, Where Will They?
Fathers play a crucial role in their children's emotional security, providing safety, love, and a sense of worth. When these foundational needs go unmet, kids may seek validation from unhealthy influences. The discussion dives into the balance between guidance and compassion, highlighting the risks of being overly critical or strict. It emphasizes that if children don’t receive support at home, they might look for it in dangerous places. Understanding this dynamic is essential for fostering healthier relationships and better outcomes.
Mar 23, 2020 • 3min
It Is Always Scary To Do This
The podcast dives into the universal fears of fatherhood amid a tumultuous world. It highlights how every generation has faced uncertainty, whether through wars, pandemics, or societal issues. Listeners are reminded that parenting has always come with challenges and that perseverance is key. The discussion encourages embracing these fears while fostering resilience in children and maintaining gratitude for the present. It's a conversation about courage, history, and the unending worries of being a dad.