

The Daily Dad
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 16, 2024 • 4min
Make Sure They Are Reading This Stuff
Explore the vital role of reading in shaping children's character and moral compass. Delve into how exposing them to impactful literature can elevate their thinking and empathy. Learn about the transformative power of stories through historical examples, like the early reading habits of Abraham Lincoln. Plus, discover recommendations for books that introduce young minds to Stoicism, promoting resilience and virtue. Join a thought-provoking conversation about nurturing a love for literature that challenges and inspires.

Oct 15, 2024 • 5min
You Never Know
Life is fleeting, and cherishing every moment with loved ones is essential. The discussion highlights the importance of generosity in parenting, using historical figures like Abraham Lincoln as examples. It introduces the concept of Memento Mori to remind listeners of life’s brevity. The podcast encourages reflecting on mortality to appreciate quality time spent with family, making every interaction meaningful.

Oct 14, 2024 • 2min
You Must Forgive
Forgiveness plays a pivotal role in effective parenting. It’s essential for parents to respond with love and understanding when children inevitably make mistakes. The conversation emphasizes the importance of unconditional love and support, helping to guide kids through life’s challenges, even when they create their own messes. This compassionate approach fosters a strong parent-child relationship that endures through trying times.

9 snips
Oct 12, 2024 • 18min
Seize Every Moment With Them (While You Can) | David Kessler
David Kessler, a grief and loss expert, shares his deeply personal journey following the sudden death of his son. He discusses how this tragedy has redefined his perspective on parenting and the importance of being present. Kessler encourages parents to embrace their vulnerabilities and to cherish every moment with their children. He emphasizes that personal growth can emerge from grief, and he provides insights into transforming sorrow into meaningful experiences, reminding us of the fragility of life and the necessity of living fully.

Oct 11, 2024 • 3min
It’s Piling Up
Time slips away quickly, especially with loved ones. The urgency to be present with family is emphasized, reminding us how valuable those moments are. Distractions abound, but embracing the now can lead to cherished memories. This heartfelt conversation encourages listeners to treasure time spent with children, highlighting its irreplaceability.

Oct 10, 2024 • 3min
They’ve Always Been Like That
This discussion dives into the timeless frustrations of parenting and the perceived entitlement of children throughout history. Surprisingly, feelings of being overwhelmed by demanding kids aren’t new; they’ve always existed. The conversation encourages parents to see these challenges as crucial parts of their journey, reminding us that every generation faces similar hurdles. A thought-provoking look at how parenting struggles transcend time!

Oct 9, 2024 • 3min
These Are Your Priorities
Explore why many parents struggle to prioritize family time over spending. The discussion dives into the contradictions of outsourcing childcare while focusing on household upkeep. It encourages a reevaluation of financial choices to foster closer connections with loved ones. By delegating non-essential tasks, parents can create more opportunities to bond with their children, ultimately leading to more meaningful family experiences.

Oct 8, 2024 • 4min
What They’ll Remember Is This
Anxiety can feel overwhelming, but it's important to remember we have the power to change our reactions. The focus is on creating a loving and calm environment for children, shaping their long-term memories. Parental emotional presence plays a crucial role in child development, encouraging acceptance and mindfulness. Discover effective tools to combat anxiety and foster positive experiences for your little ones.

Oct 7, 2024 • 4min
They Can’t Help It
Discover the timeless parenting lessons from historical figures like Abraham Lincoln and his journey with his son. Embrace the idea that kids will be kids, no matter the challenges they bring. The discussion emphasizes the importance of patience and understanding as parents navigate the ups and downs of raising teenagers. Learn how to keep perspective and cherish these fleeting moments.

6 snips
Oct 5, 2024 • 18min
A Few of Our Favorite Things | Ryan and Sam Holiday
Sam Holiday, co-host of The Daily Dad and Ryan Holiday's wife, shares her insights on mindful parenting and the impact of consumerism. They discuss the advantages of using wagons over strollers for travel with kids, alongside product recommendations. Sam reflects on embracing vintage fashion for comfort and sustainability, highlighting plans to sell vintage band t-shirts. They also emphasize the importance of minimizing waste and making intentional choices about possessions, promoting a more sustainable approach to parenting.