

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

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.

Oct 4, 2024 • 3min
Why Go Through The Whole Routine?
Parenting can often lead to unnecessary battles over trivial issues. The discussion emphasizes the importance of embracing fun and spontaneity, drawing on cherished childhood road trip memories. It advocates for reserving resistance for truly significant matters, fostering stronger connections with children. The episode encourages parents to pick their moments wisely and enjoy the journey together.

Oct 3, 2024 • 4min
Help Them Find Whose Children They Are
The discussion dives into the importance of recognizing and embracing children's unique identities. It draws insights from the historical relationship between Benjamin Franklin and his father, showcasing how parents can support their kids on their paths to self-discovery. The episode emphasizes the idea that children can be their own individuals, reflecting the journey of connecting with inspiring figures outside their families.

Oct 2, 2024 • 2min
You’re The Weird One
Explore the importance of unconditional love in parenting. Discover how acceptance can bridge generational gaps, even when lifestyles or beliefs differ. The discussion emphasizes the need for support in fostering strong family relationships. Tune in for insights that inspire a deeper connection with your children.

Oct 1, 2024 • 4min
Challenge Them Like This
Parents are encouraged to create hands-on challenges for their kids to foster resilience and problem-solving skills. Personal stories and historical examples highlight the importance of engaging projects that build toughness. The concept of nurturing tough kids is examined, emphasizing that it's not just about wanting them to be strong, but actively working towards it. These insights aim to inspire a new approach to parenting that empowers children through meaningful experiences.

Sep 30, 2024 • 4min
This Part Is Your Fault
The discussion dives into the crucial role parents play in guiding their children's moral development. It emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and emotional support in navigating this challenging journey. Listeners learn how to help their kids face frustrations and limitations, making them resilient and capable. There's a sprinkle of literary inspiration with a mention of Patrick White's 'The Tree of Man.' Plus, exciting news about an upcoming tour adds a lively touch to the conversation!

5 snips
Sep 28, 2024 • 12min
See It From an Angle of Appreciation | Timm Chiusano
Explore the depths of parenting through a lens of curiosity and appreciation. Discover how communication can be tailored to fit each child's unique sensitivities. Learn the powerful distinction between gratitude and appreciation, and how fostering the latter can enrich family connections. Dive into the transformative impact of recognizing the beauty in children's actions, and find practical tips for establishing healthy habits and mutual support in co-parenting.

Sep 27, 2024 • 3min
What Would You Give Then?
Parenthood is a wild ride, filled with chaos and joy. The discussion emphasizes the importance of embracing the present moment, even when it's messy or overwhelming. It’s a reminder to cherish the noisy, exhausting moments with kids, as they are part of the beautiful chaos of family life. Plus, there's a nod to the transformative power of literature, highlighting how stories can help navigate the ups and downs of parenting.

Sep 26, 2024 • 5min
They Need You (And You Need Them)
Explore the vital link between parenting and societal welfare, emphasizing how our children’s futures are intertwined with others. Delve into the importance of community engagement and the impact of indifference in a diverse world. The conversation is grounded in Stoic philosophy, urging parents to take a broader perspective on raising their kids. It's a call to action for a more interconnected approach to parenting, highlighting that caring for one another is essential for a safe future.

Sep 25, 2024 • 3min
Which Would You Rather Be?
The discussion revolves around the intriguing choice between being imperious or fun-loving, emphasizing the value of nurturing relationships. It delves into Abraham Lincoln's affectionate parenting style, contrasting it with his father's stern demeanor. This exploration highlights how parenting choices shape children's development and underscores the importance of love and pride in family dynamics.