

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

Apr 15, 2024 • 5min
How Many Are Left?
This discussion dives into the essential role of sleep in parenting, highlighting how it affects decision-making. It also emphasizes teaching children resilience and adaptability in the face of life's challenges. Personal stories illustrate how struggles can foster growth, showcasing that every setback can be a new opportunity. The insights encourage parents to foster a mindset in their kids poised for overcoming obstacles.

Apr 13, 2024 • 19min
Getting Your Kids To Put Their Shoes On | Ryan and Sam Holiday
Samantha Holiday, co-host of The Daily Dad Podcast and wife of Ryan Holiday, shares relatable insights on parenting's chaotic side. They humorously recount struggles like getting kids dressed and managing morning routines, revealing the clash between parents’ urgency and kids’ autonomy. Samantha highlights the importance of communication and flexibility in co-parenting while navigating unexpected messes and emotional transitions. The conversation is a delightful mix of laughter and wisdom, showcasing the beautifully chaotic journey of raising children.

Apr 12, 2024 • 3min
You Must Seed This Habit
Explore the power of curiosity in children and the importance of nurturing a 'Why Child.' Inspired by F. Scott Fitzgerald's insights, the discussion emphasizes fostering an inquisitive spirit, encouraging kids to explore the world around them. This approach not only broadens their understanding but also challenges parents to engage thoughtfully with their children's questions. Dive into the value of curiosity as a tool for lifelong learning and personal growth.

Apr 11, 2024 • 3min
Are You Building This?
Discover the importance of building emotional connections in parenting. The discussion highlights how criticism can harm relationships with children. It emphasizes the need for trust and understanding to enhance communication. Learn strategies for creating a supportive environment that nurtures youth's development.

Apr 10, 2024 • 5min
You Have to Give Them Access
Explore the power of literature in children's lives and how it shapes their creativity. Learn how parents can inspire independent thinking by exposing kids to diverse stories and challenging ideas. The discussion highlights Jane Austen's upbringing as a prime example of nurturing a love for reading and critical thought. Encouraging access to literature opens doors for young minds, fostering imagination and growth.

5 snips
Apr 9, 2024 • 3min
You’re Not Trying To Raise Well-Behaved Kids
Delve into the philosophy of parenting that prioritizes raising well-adjusted adults over just well-behaved kids. Explore the importance of nurturing emotional regulation and mature values in children. Discover how focusing on the long-term development of your child can reshape your parenting approach. This thought-provoking discussion challenges societal expectations and encourages a deeper look at what it means to be a responsible parent.

7 snips
Apr 8, 2024 • 4min
Never Wish For Less Time
This discussion focuses on the fleeting nature of parenthood. It emphasizes the importance of cherishing every moment with children rather than wishing for future milestones. Personal anecdotes illustrate the nostalgia and beauty of each stage in a child’s life, urging parents to savor their time together. The message is clear: every phase brings its own joy, and appreciation is key to enjoying the journey.

13 snips
Apr 6, 2024 • 11min
Morgan Housel and Ryan Holiday on Raising Well Adjusted Children And Being Prepared
Discover the essential goal of parenting: raising well-adjusted adults capable of tackling life's hurdles. The hosts unpack the importance of resilience, arguing that facing failure is crucial for personal growth. They share personal anecdotes and co-parenting tactics while highlighting the balance between children's happiness and parental boundaries. The conversation dives into fostering creativity away from screens and understanding that love doesn’t mean control. Tune in for insights that redefine what it means to raise capable kids!

6 snips
Apr 5, 2024 • 5min
These Are The Best Times
Discover the power of building joyful morning rituals with your children. Explore how playful interactions can strengthen family bonds, inspired by Douglas MacArthur's practices. Dive into strategies for creating engaging routines that set a positive tone for the day. Emphasize simplicity and fun as essential components of family life.

Apr 4, 2024 • 3min
Try Not To Be This
Dive into the profound impact fathers have on their children's growth. The discussion highlights how negative traits can be inherited from one generation to the next. It emphasizes the importance of self-awareness in parenting to break these harmful cycles. By focusing on positive development, fathers can foster confidence and resilience in their kids. This thought-provoking conversation encourages listeners to reflect on their parenting strategies and the legacy they choose to pass on.