

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

May 17, 2024 • 4min
It’s Ok To Have Conditions
Parenting is a balancing act of support and setting conditions. A heartfelt bike ride reflects on the fleeting nature of childhood. The speaker connects this to a famous skateboarder's relationship with his father, illustrating how expectations shape experiences. It's a candid exploration of the challenges and joys of guiding children while allowing them to grow.

May 16, 2024 • 5min
You Can Do This
Explore the vital role of resilience and responsibility in parenting. Hear about Bill Russell's challenging childhood and how it shaped his character. Discover valuable lessons in self-reliance and hard work that can empower parents to guide their children through hardships. Get inspired to embrace the ups and downs of raising kids!

May 15, 2024 • 4min
It’s Simple (But Also Out of Their Hands)
Dive into the rich world of parenting as the host reflects on a memorable bike ride with their son. They discuss the fleeting beauty of childhood moments and the importance of quality time. Drawing inspiration from the Wright brothers, the conversation highlights the need for supportive parenting and empathy, especially towards those navigating their own challenges. It's a heartfelt exploration of connection and understanding in family life.

May 14, 2024 • 3min
It Works, Just Not How You Think
Discover the profound impact of parenting styles on children's emotional well-being. The discussion dives into the complexities of parent-child dynamics, drawing insights from Franz Kafka's reflections on his own father. It highlights the importance of empathy and love, while cautioning against the pitfalls of harsh parenting. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that reveals how nurturing relationships shape healthier futures.

May 13, 2024 • 3min
This is Out To Get Them
Parents are grappling with the challenges of raising kids in a digital world dominated by algorithms. This discussion highlights the critical role of parental guidance in helping children explore diverse interests. It emphasizes the importance of encouraging a broad range of experiences, rather than allowing them to be shaped by narrow online influences. It's a call to action for parents to actively participate in their children's digital consumption.

May 11, 2024 • 18min
Create Your Own Parenting Legacy | Adrian Grenier
Explore the complexities of co-parenting with personal insights on health and mutual support. Delve into how father figures can shape career ambitions and identity. Reflect on breaking generational patterns of fatherhood and the importance of empathy. Compare the contrasting parenting styles of athletic legends like Tiger Woods and Roger Federer, revealing how pressures and support impact success. Finally, discover how leading by example can instill values in children, emphasizing authenticity over societal validation.

May 10, 2024 • 4min
You Can’t Get Around This Math
Discover the crucial importance of prioritizing quality time with your children over social engagements. The discussion highlights how neglecting family interactions can impact relationships and personal growth. It encourages parents to reflect on their commitments and make necessary changes for a better balance in life. Dive into the thought-provoking insights that challenge conventional parenting dynamics.

May 9, 2024 • 4min
The Important Thing Is That You Do This
Discover the vital importance of courage in parenting. Learn how instilling bravery shapes character and makes teachings on morality truly effective. Insights from C.S. Lewis provide a thought-provoking lens on raising resilient children. Plus, explore tips for prioritizing mental health and well-being in your parenting journey!

May 8, 2024 • 4min
What Would You Do More Of?
Explore the importance of cherishing moments with your children, as the discussion emphasizes nurturing daily interactions. Personal stories reveal how quickly kids grow, highlighting the need to prioritize meaningful activities. It's a heartfelt reminder for parents to engage fully, ensuring that precious time isn't lost amid life's chaos.

May 7, 2024 • 4min
This Is Your Main Job
Dive into the ups and downs of parenting as the discussion emphasizes the importance of letting children face challenges. Embracing struggles is portrayed as a vital part of their growth, striking a perfect balance between support and fostering independence. A touching letter from Thomas Edison's wife adds a historical perspective, illustrating the timeless relevance of these themes. Explore how nurturing resilience can shape better futures for our kids.