

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

8 snips
Jul 20, 2024 • 12min
How to Teach Your Kids About Ancient Philosophy
Discover how to introduce your kids to ancient philosophy through engaging stories and practical lessons. Explore the core virtues of Stoicism—courage, temperance, justice, and wisdom. Learn the power of experiential learning and how original texts can enrich their understanding. Find out tips for integrating these lessons into daily life, making philosophy accessible and fun for young minds.

Jul 19, 2024 • 5min
Don’t Put This Off
Self-care is crucial for parents, yet it's often neglected. This discussion emphasizes the urgency of prioritizing personal well-being to foster healthier family dynamics. By addressing their own health, parents can better support their loved ones. Delaying self-care can lead to negative consequences, making it vital to take action now.

Jul 18, 2024 • 4min
Let Them Teach You This
Discover how children effortlessly find joy, even in tough times, and learn valuable lessons adults can apply. The discussion encourages embracing a carefree spirit and resilience, highlighting the importance of viewing life through a child's eyes. This perspective on parenting fosters understanding and connection, reminding listeners to celebrate the simple pleasures that often get overlooked.

5 snips
Jul 17, 2024 • 5min
This Is All They Want
Discover the profound impact of parental approval on a child's self-esteem and ambitions. A personal story illustrates how the absence of encouragement can shape confidence and aspirations. Dive into the importance of support in nurturing future generations and the long-lasting effects it can have on their lives.

Jul 16, 2024 • 4min
This Is Something You’ll Regret
Time is fleeting, especially in childhood, making it crucial for parents to express love and support actively. The concept of Tempest Fugit serves as a powerful reminder to cherish every moment. Meaningful connections are essential, urging parents to be present and cultivate deep relationships with their children. This discussion encourages listeners to reflect on their parenting approaches and prioritize quality time with loved ones.

Jul 15, 2024 • 4min
Why You Have To Do Better
Parenting can be a challenging journey, even for the most loving parents. A poignant poem highlights the profound impact of our words and actions on children. The discussion encourages listeners to reflect on their parenting practices and inspires a commitment to improvement and healing within family relationships. It's a reminder that growth is essential for fostering stronger connections with our kids.

Jul 13, 2024 • 15min
Is It Best For Them, Or Best For You? | Ryan and Sam Holiday
Samantha Holiday, co-host of The Daily Dad Podcast and Ryan Holiday's wife, shares her insights on the complexities of parenting. They dive into co-parenting dynamics, balancing work with family life, and the summer routines that keep chaos at bay. The couple candidly discusses parental guilt, emphasizing meaningful presence over grand gestures, and the emotional challenges of travel. Their humorous anecdotes highlight the importance of boundaries and finding harmony between professional aspirations and family well-being.

Jul 12, 2024 • 4min
Instill This Spirit In Them
Explore the importance of instilling strong values in children through the teachings of Marcus Aurelius. Discover how ancient wisdom can guide modern parenting. The discussion emphasizes the challenges parents face in shaping virtuous individuals and the need for exemplary leadership in their upbringing. Parenting becomes a journey of nurturing ideals, drawing from the profound insights of philosophy.

Jul 11, 2024 • 4min
It’s A Bad Calculation
Discover the challenges of managing anger in parenting. The discussion highlights the drawbacks of yelling and offers personal anecdotes alongside psychological insights. Listeners are encouraged to embrace more constructive approaches to frustration. A course on emotional management for parents is introduced, promising a calmer, more positive parenting journey.

Jul 10, 2024 • 3min
What’s Keeping You From It?
Explore the vital need to repair parent-child relationships, as the discussion highlights the impact of open dialogue and forgiveness. A heartfelt example of a mother-daughter conversation underscores the urgency of mending bonds. Time is fleeting, and the podcast encourages listeners to take action to heal before it's too late.