
The 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.
Latest episodes

21 snips
May 15, 2025 • 4min
You Must Seed This Habit
Explore the vital role of nurturing a child's curiosity and the magic of encouraging their questions. Discover how patience can transform parenting into a rewarding adventure. With a humorous tale by F. Scott Fitzgerald as a backdrop, learn how to cultivate a thriving 'why child' while navigating the challenges that come with it. This discussion highlights the importance of watering your child's curious spirit, even when you're tired or the questions seem out of place.

8 snips
May 14, 2025 • 5min
It’s Coming Apart In Your Hands
Childhood is fleeting, and every moment spent with your child matters. The discussion emphasizes being present and cherishing these unique experiences. It's a heartfelt reminder to make the most of each day as time slips away. Special items like the Tempus Fugit Medallion are suggested as tools to help parents appreciate the present. Additionally, a nod to great literature like 'Papyrus' highlights the deeper themes of life's transience.

14 snips
May 13, 2025 • 5min
Why Be A Ghost?
Explore the transformative choice parents face: to be a guiding ancestor or a mere ghost in their children's lives. Delve into Winston Churchill's upbringing, revealing how his father's absence influenced his journey. Discover how presence and active participation shape identity and legacy. The conversation blends historical insights with personal anecdotes, urging parents to reflect on the lasting impact of their involvement.

May 12, 2025 • 4min
Do You Give Them This?
Discover the magic of childhood moments that often go unnoticed. The discussion highlights the importance of being fully present with your children, emphasizing how distractions can disrupt genuine connections. Engagement and shared experiences take center stage, proving that time spent together is far more valuable than any material gift. Tune in for insights on nurturing those priceless interactions that shape lasting memories.

64 snips
May 10, 2025 • 26min
10 Reminders to Put Your Kids First
Explore the intricate dance of parenting, where work often pulls families apart. Discover the importance of prioritizing your kids over professional goals. Hear memorable anecdotes from figures like Queen Elizabeth II and Winston Churchill that reveal the sacrifices of parenthood. Uncover why being emotionally present is essential and how societal pressures can distract from meaningful moments. This heartfelt discussion encourages a re-evaluation of what true success looks like in maintaining family bonds.

25 snips
May 9, 2025 • 4min
Remind Them This Over And Over And Over Again
Navigating the tough realities of the world can be a challenge for parents. The discussion centers around instilling resilience in children against social cruelty. Key strategies include protecting their dignity and reinforcing their self-worth. It's all about reminding them of their intrinsic goodness, even in the face of negativity. Parents are encouraged to tinker, create, and innovate in their approach to make their kids stronger.

7 snips
May 8, 2025 • 5min
This Is What You Do
The importance of a parent's unwavering presence is highlighted, illustrating how it shapes a child's resilience. A poignant story of a young boy battling tuberculosis serves as a reminder of the challenges faced in public health. Themes of community support underscore the necessity for parents to stand firm during their child's struggles, emphasizing the profound impact of their involvement in overcoming adversities. It's a heartfelt call to action for all parents to be there when it matters most.

May 7, 2025 • 5min
This Is What They’ll Remember
Explore the importance of being fully present with your children in this thought-provoking discussion. Discover how quality time beats material distractions and learn practical tools to enhance parental engagement. The conversation encourages setting aside phones and embracing genuine interactions, emphasizing that the moments spent together are what children will truly remember. It's a heartfelt reminder of the love and attention kids crave, presenting a chance to strengthen familial bonds.

16 snips
May 6, 2025 • 5min
C’mon, Don’t Do This
The discussion delves into the vital role of encouragement in parenting, highlighting how supportive feedback can bolster a child's self-esteem. Using Winston Churchill's childhood as a case study, the conversation reveals the long-lasting effects of a nurturing environment. It emphasizes that children thrive on affection and support, rather than cynicism. The insights remind parents to focus on building their children's confidence for a brighter future.

7 snips
May 5, 2025 • 4min
Let This Teach You…And Them
Discover the power of literature in parenting and how books can help your children navigate challenges. Gain insights on using stories as a tool for indirect advice and meaningful discussions. Learn how introducing the right books can strengthen family connections and foster communication. This engaging exploration emphasizes literature's role in enhancing both parenting and understanding.