

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

Sep 24, 2024 • 3min
Why Does Anyone Care?
Discover the profound impact of unconditional love in parenting. Learn how criticism and high expectations can harm children's self-esteem. This discussion encourages reflection on parenting styles to foster healthier family relationships. Embrace love and support to help your children thrive.

Sep 23, 2024 • 4min
Show Them This Strength
Exploring the power of vulnerability, the discussion emphasizes the importance of asking for help in parenting. It highlights how parents can model this strength for their children, fostering open conversations about challenges. The insights encourage listeners to view seeking assistance not as a weakness, but as a vital life lesson.

Sep 21, 2024 • 12min
Don't Forget to Stick to the Facts
Parents often let anxiety cloud their judgment, but the key is to stick to the facts. Historical figures like Marcus Aurelius and Abraham Lincoln faced similar challenges, emphasizing the need for realistic thinking. By focusing on factual perspectives, parents can combat catastrophizing and nurture their children's well-being. Emphasizing patience and observational wisdom, the discussion encourages thoughtful decision-making in the chaos of parenting. It's a reminder that sometimes, just pausing can lead to better choices.

Sep 20, 2024 • 3min
Don’t Cut It Short (If You Don’t Have To)
Cutting family time short isn't always necessary; it's often driven by distraction. The podcast emphasizes cherishing every moment with loved ones. It warns against the anxiety of busyness that can rob us of meaningful experiences. A cautionary tale about Pierre Curie illustrates the importance of prioritizing time with family. By valuing these fleeting moments, we can transform ordinary time into extraordinary memories.

6 snips
Sep 19, 2024 • 5min
Don’t Let Them Tell You This
Discover the importance of maintaining a balance between parenting and professional life. The discussion highlights how honoring family commitments can lead to greater fulfillment. Learn about the value of discipline and protecting your personal life as keys to success. Plus, there’s a touch of inspiration from poet Diane de Prima's choices, reminding us that all time can indeed be quality time. This journey into personal dedication is a reminder that every aspect of life can harmoniously coexist.

Sep 18, 2024 • 4min
What’s In Your Greatest Hits?
What would your personal greatest hits list look like? The discussion dives into how our words influence children's self-worth and perceptions of love. It highlights the importance of nurturing communication styles and advocates for a shift towards more positive affirmations in our interactions with kids. Tune in for insights on reflecting and reshaping how we connect with the younger generation.

Sep 17, 2024 • 4min
This Is How To Explain Things
Storytelling reigns supreme in parenting as a powerful teaching tool. The discussion emphasizes how sharing relatable anecdotes can make complex concepts clearer for children. Instead of traditional lecturing, illustrating lessons through stories not only captures kids' attention but also instills important values. It's all about showing rather than telling—making learning engaging and memorable!

Sep 16, 2024 • 3min
It’s Brave Of Them
The podcast explores the vital role of nurturing individuality in children. It emphasizes the importance of encouraging kids to embrace their unique interests, like a child with a passion for fashion. A relatable story illustrates how parental support can empower kids to be true to themselves, even when faced with societal pressures. It's a heartfelt reminder that bravery in self-expression should be celebrated.

Sep 14, 2024 • 14min
What Works For One Kid May Not Work For The Other | Ryan and Sam Holiday
Parenting two kids means two distinct personalities and styles. The hosts humorously reflect on how their own traits mirror their children’s unique behaviors. They navigate the complexities of childhood friendships and how early experiences shape adult relationships. Communication quirks add a lighthearted twist, while personal anecdotes highlight the challenges of balancing introversion and extroversion in parenting. The conversation is filled with insights on how adaptability is key in nurturing their kids' individuality.

Sep 13, 2024 • 5min
What Will You Do With 72 Seasons?
Dive into the concept of '72 seasons,' emphasizing the fleeting nature of childhood and its developmental impacts. The discussion encourages parents to recognize their vital role through each phase. Personal anecdotes bring the metaphor to life, prompting reflection on quality time spent with children. Discover how to make the most of these precious moments and create lasting memories, reminding us that every season counts.