

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

16 snips
Mar 15, 2025 • 25min
Josh Brolin: "I Just Had A Parenting Freak Out"
Josh Brolin, renowned for his roles in classics like No Country for Old Men and the Marvel Universe, opens up about his recent parenting meltdown. He candidly shares how reading parenting literature helped soothe his frustrations. The conversation delves into the complexities of accepting one’s own struggles as a parent, the joys and burdens of balancing family and career, and the lasting impact of childhood experiences on parenting styles. Brolin also reflects on his journey towards sobriety and its transformative power in embracing life's challenges.

8 snips
Mar 14, 2025 • 4min
There Is So Much More Inside You Now
Parenthood can reshape your very being, igniting a profound transformation within. Embracing this change fosters emotional growth and a new perspective on life. The discussion references Hamilton to illustrate how challenges enhance patience and understanding. Discover how caring for others beyond yourself can lead to a richer, more fulfilling existence.

12 snips
Mar 13, 2025 • 5min
Stop Winging This
Discover how intentional living can transform family dynamics into a well-coordinated team effort. The discussion emphasizes the importance of establishing clear roles and shared goals within the household. Learn practical strategies to enhance communication and foster a supportive environment, making family life as purposeful as career planning. Tune in for insights on creating a harmonious family structure!

8 snips
Mar 12, 2025 • 5min
Heed This Reminder
Spring serves as a gentle reminder of how quickly time passes for parents. This discussion emphasizes not settling for complacency in busy routines. Listeners are inspired to embrace the season's growth with the Spring Forward Challenge, a 10-day initiative aimed at enhancing family connections. It's a call to reflect and actively pursue personal and parental growth.

Mar 11, 2025 • 4min
What Will This Experience Give You?
Parenting isn't a walk in the park, but every challenge is a chance for growth. Discover how the struggles you face can lead to powerful lessons and closer family bonds. It's a journey that may not be easy, but it’s definitely rewarding!

Mar 10, 2025 • 3min
Just Give Them A Little More Time
Explore the importance of patience in parenting, emphasizing how each child has their own unique timetable. Discover ways to support your children without pressure, allowing them to develop at their own pace. Learn about practical tools and tips to make parenting smoother and more enjoyable. Embrace the journey of growth, both for your kids and yourself.

14 snips
Mar 8, 2025 • 9min
There Are No Perfect Parents | Reassurance from Richard Reeves and Donald Robertson
Discover the art of being a 'good enough' parent as Richard Reeves and Donald Robertson share insights on parenting boys and managing school-related stress. They emphasize self-forgiveness and emotional regulation, allowing parents to embrace imperfection. Delve into understanding family dynamics and the importance of nurturing relationships, especially during the challenging early years. With valuable advice, this conversation reassures parents that navigating the ups and downs is part of the journey.

Mar 7, 2025 • 4min
Here’s The Joy
Explore how parents can discover joy even when life feels overwhelming. The discussion emphasizes the significance of appreciating children's simple pleasures as a way to navigate the challenges of adulthood. Learn practical tips for shedding burdens and embracing happiness amid responsibilities.

Mar 6, 2025 • 5min
You Can’t Be Afraid
Navigating the journey of parenting can be daunting, especially when faced with the diverse talents and beliefs of our children. Fear can creep in, but it’s crucial not to let it take over. Embracing each child’s unique identity is essential. Creating an atmosphere of love and acceptance not only nurtures their individuality but also strengthens the family bond. Discover how to confidently support your child's journey while celebrating their differences.

17 snips
Mar 5, 2025 • 7min
It Should Be Good, Not Easy
Parenting is a balance between protection and challenge. Exploring the pitfalls of indulgent parenting, historical examples show the risks of shielding children from hardship. Instead, embracing struggle helps foster resilience and character. Insights from Stoic philosophy emphasize the importance of allowing kids to face difficulties for genuine growth. Meanwhile, navigating nutritional choices reveals that not all seemingly ideal products truly benefit children. Encouraging a more nuanced approach to parenting could lead to stronger, more self-aware individuals.


