
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 6, 2025 • 7min
The Most Beautiful Model For A Perfect Life
Discover how everyday Stoicism shapes practical parenting with insights from personal stories. A touching tribute to father figures highlights the value of self-reliance and compassion. Get ready for Father's Day with thoughtful gift ideas, including special editions of classic Stoic literature. Plus, explore hands-on summer activities that foster creativity and learning in kids, inspired by innovative KiwiCo kits. Embrace the wisdom of relatable role models in the journey of fatherhood.

7 snips
Jun 5, 2025 • 3min
It’s A Part Of Life
In this heartfelt discussion, the importance of resilience is emphasized for children's development. Drawing on ancient wisdom, the conversation encourages parents to prepare their kids for life's inevitable challenges. Strategies for fostering coping skills are shared, making it a profound journey into parenting. With Father’s Day in mind, the episode resonates deeply with both dads and aspiring fathers.

16 snips
Jun 4, 2025 • 3min
It Doesn’t Matter If It’s True
This discussion emphasizes the importance of stories over mere facts in teaching life lessons. It highlights how myths and fables can convey deeper ethical insights, particularly for children. Engaging narratives become powerful tools for imparting wisdom and principles, nurturing a sense of humanity and understanding in young minds.

4 snips
Jun 3, 2025 • 2min
Transcend This Bitter Math
The conversation explores the sacrifices and changes that come with parenthood and marriage. Insights from a mother highlight the importance of balancing partnerships while nurturing personal growth. It emphasizes that losing oneself isn't a necessity and encourages parents to inspire their children by maintaining their own aspirations. Valuable lessons learned through these life transformations are shared, paving the way for a thoughtful discussion on identity and fulfillment within the family dynamic.

Jun 2, 2025 • 4min
This Is The Real Quality Time
Discover the incredible importance of being truly present in parenting. Meaningful connections with children far outweigh material gifts. The discussion highlights how genuine attention fosters feelings of safety and love. It emphasizes that quality time spent together creates lasting memories, enriching both the parent-child bond and the overall family experience.

98 snips
May 31, 2025 • 18min
15 Life-Changing Questions for Parents (In 15 Minutes)
Discover how the questions we ask ourselves can transform our parenting. Explore the profound impact of ordinary moments and the importance of being fully present with our children. Learn about nurturing resilience and viewing children as essential parts of our lives. Dive into the benefits of walking together to strengthen bonds and redefine what success in parenting truly means – prioritizing family connections over traditional achievements.

May 30, 2025 • 4min
You Make Debts Your Children Must Pay
Dive into the profound impact of parental choices on future generations. Uncover the heart-wrenching histories of Theodore Roosevelt and Rudyard Kipling, who faced unimaginable loss. Their stories remind us that our expectations can shape our children's paths. It's a call to reflect on the legacy we create and how it molds the next generation's identity.

14 snips
May 29, 2025 • 5min
It Takes As Long As It Takes
Every child has a unique journey that doesn't conform to societal milestones. The discussion emphasizes the importance of patience and understanding in parenting. Listeners hear personal anecdotes that highlight the diverse paths children take in their development. The host reassures parents to focus on providing support rather than succumbing to anxiety about comparisons. It’s a heartfelt reminder that nurturing a child's individuality is key to their growth.

12 snips
May 28, 2025 • 4min
Everyday A Little Goes Away
Childhood is a continuous journey, not a destination. Emphasizing the importance of living in the moment, the conversation draws on ancient wisdom from Seneca. It encourages parents to cherish each day with their kids rather than fixating on future milestones. This approach fosters deeper connections and appreciation for the fleeting nature of childhood.

12 snips
May 27, 2025 • 5min
Teach Them To Be Tough (But Practical)
This discussion delves into the delicate balance of fostering toughness and practicality in children. It highlights the significance of resilience, using personal stories to underscore essential life skills. Preparing for the future is key, with insights on financial protections like wills and life insurance. The speakers also emphasize the value of allowing kids to face challenges while providing guidance in making smart decisions. The message encourages mindful parenting that nurtures both strength and intellect.