

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

41 snips
Nov 15, 2025 • 12min
A Surprising Perspective On Parenting From A Billionaire
Self-made billionaire Robert Rosenkranz shares his insights on parenting, emphasizing that success doesn't change what children truly need. He discusses the importance of presence over wealth and offers a Stoic perspective on parenting—acknowledging limited control over adult children's choices. Rosenkranz stresses the significance of providing possibilities rather than imposing expectations, urging parents to embrace their children’s individuality for stronger relationships. His unique take on ambition and experience sparks a thought-provoking conversation.

Nov 14, 2025 • 4min
You’re Going To Stick With That?
Parenting can feel overwhelming in a rapidly changing world. It challenges long-held beliefs and demands growth. Ryan Holiday shares a powerful example from Dwayne Wade's supportive journey with his daughter Zaya. This highlights the importance of evolving as a parent. Discover how embracing change can foster a healthier relationship with your children. Tune in for insights on navigating these generational shifts.

Nov 13, 2025 • 4min
You Shouldn’t Expect Anything Different
Explore the dynamics of parenting expectations and why we often feel surprised by our children's behavior. Discover how embracing the natural, noisy, and messy actions of kids can lead to more patience and understanding. Get insights from Epictetus on aligning expectations with reality, emphasizing love and encouragement over frustration. Learn about what children truly need from their parents and how to cultivate a supportive environment for growth.

6 snips
Nov 12, 2025 • 5min
You Are Not a Bad Parent
Parents often struggle with overwhelming self-criticism. Discover why it’s common to feel like you're not measuring up. Embrace the notion that occasional mistakes don’t define your parenting. Ryan Holiday shares a Stoic perspective to help reshape how we view ourselves. Plus, learn about a supportive community where parents can connect and share resources. It's a journey towards understanding and encouragement!

Nov 11, 2025 • 4min
Reflect On Yourself First
The discussion begins with a thought-provoking look at why kids often appear selfish, uncovering common challenging behaviors. It emphasizes the importance of parents reflecting on their own flaws instead of immediately blaming their children. The host urges listeners to adopt empathy and self-reflection to improve parenting. Innovative resources and community support are also highlighted as vital tools for personal growth in parenting. A must-listen for parents seeking to enhance their approach!

14 snips
Nov 10, 2025 • 4min
This Skews Our Perspective
Explore the anxieties that modern parents face in an increasingly uncertain world. Discover how childhood memories can inspire hands-on learning with your kids. Unpack how risk perception can distort reality, fueling unnecessary fears. Learn the critical balance between vigilance and overprotection. Hear advice on safety practices that allow for peace of mind and reassurance for diligent parents. Embrace the idea that following guidelines can transform worries into confident parenting.

16 snips
Nov 8, 2025 • 13min
Our Kids Are Outsmarting Us | Ryan and Sam Holiday
Parents share amusing tales of kids calling out their little white lies, showcasing unexpected social smarts. Quick spellers and cultural quizmasters, children often leave parents struggling to keep up. The challenge of parenting neurodivergent kids is tackled with practical book recommendations. There's a mix of pride and ego when kids outsmart their parents, revealing both their growth and parents' vulnerabilities. The stress of unequal sleep duties is also a hot topic, as nightly parenting duties weigh heavily on one partner.

7 snips
Nov 7, 2025 • 5min
You Have to Be More Careful Now
Becoming a parent transforms the game, demanding more intentionality in every aspect of life. Journaling plays a crucial role, offering a way to capture thoughts and build a legacy. The focus on health, habits, and energy management becomes essential as responsibilities increase. Listeners are encouraged to adopt structured parenting tools and join a supportive community. This insightful discussion inspires reflection on how to navigate the challenges of parenthood with greater care.

4 snips
Nov 6, 2025 • 3min
It Would Be Weird If This Didn’t Happen
Parenthood inevitably shifts your focus and productivity. It's a normal evolution that even experienced creators experience. Cameron Crowe shares how fatherhood transformed his writing process and priorities. Embrace the changes as gifts that bring structure and community to your life. Dive into the journey of redefining success through the lens of parenting!

20 snips
Nov 5, 2025 • 4min
It’s About Learning How to Live
Philosophy isn't just for scholars; it's essential for parents navigating life’s challenges. Stoicism, in particular, provides practical tools for courage, discipline, and purpose in parenting. Join the upcoming Stoicism 101 course to explore these concepts together as a family. Embrace the gift of parenting with a strong support community and structured learning. Discover how ancient wisdom can enhance modern parenting!


