

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

Jul 10, 2025 • 4min
This Puts It All In Perspective
Explore the power of gratitude in parenting, especially during challenging times. Discover how maintaining perspective can enhance resilience and comfort. The discussion emphasizes recognizing both your own struggles and those of others, fostering a sense of community and support. It's all about the tools you need to navigate the ups and downs of parenthood.

Jul 9, 2025 • 5min
This Is Our Responsibility
Parenthood can feel daunting, but it’s a shared journey filled with challenges every generation faces. The discussion emphasizes embracing love and connection rather than dwelling on differences among parents. Listeners are encouraged to equip themselves with valuable parenting tools and find community support to navigate their roles. It’s all about growing together, creating a positive legacy, and not repeating the past mistakes of previous generations.

7 snips
Jul 8, 2025 • 5min
We Must Cultivate This Skill
Explore how modern parenting parallels the challenges faced in ancient Rome, particularly the battle for mindfulness. Delve into the importance of being fully present in your child's life, drawing inspiration from Stoic philosophy. This episode emphasizes emotional and mental availability, showcasing how it strengthens bonds with children in an age full of distractions.

9 snips
Jul 7, 2025 • 4min
This Is What They (And We) Forget
The discussion dives into how nostalgia often clouds our perception of parenting today. Emphasis is placed on engaging kids with creative summer activities, particularly through innovative KiwiCo kits. The importance of living in the present and fostering connections with children takes center stage, reminding parents to value the now rather than romanticize the past. It's an insightful conversation on the balance between reflection and active parenting.

15 snips
Jul 5, 2025 • 14min
"I Wish I Had Been More Patient" | Ryan Holiday
In a heartfelt reflection, Ryan shares a touching experience of teaching his son to ride a bike, emphasizing the importance of patience. He highlights how rushing can rob both parents and children of meaningful connections. The discussion delves into the value of appreciating each moment and creating a stress-free environment to foster bonds. Personal stories illustrate the joys of letting kids progress at their own speed, reminding us that true parenting rewards come from simple, shared experiences.

6 snips
Jul 4, 2025 • 5min
They’re Not Missing Anything
The discussion emphasizes trusting today's youth as they navigate their lives. It highlights the importance of mindful phone usage and productive engagement with technology. The speakers advocate for a supportive approach to parenting, encouraging listeners to equip their children with essential tools and a strong community for growth.

Jul 3, 2025 • 5min
Do You Back Them Up?
Explore the vital role of unconditional love in parenting. Learn how supporting your children's beliefs, even when they differ from your own, can nurture their bravery. Hear a compelling story about a well-known figure who backed his daughter’s activism, showcasing the importance of standing together in the face of opposition. Discover practical tools and a community to empower your parenting journey!

Jul 2, 2025 • 4min
You Owe Them This
Discover how resilience in children isn’t just inherited but cultivated through intentional parenting. The discussion emphasizes the importance of communicating major life changes to kids, inspired by Rudyard Kipling’s experiences. Learn how providing clear explanations helps children adapt and thrive amidst adversity. Equip yourself with valuable parenting tools and connect with a supportive community to enhance your family's journey.

8 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 6min
They’ll Get It Somewhere
The discussion centers around the vital role of parental affection in a child's emotional development. Without adequate love and validation, children may seek security elsewhere, which can lead to negative outcomes. Insights are drawn from the life of Clementine Churchill, showcasing how lacking affection can shape a child's future. The episode emphasizes the importance of nurturing and supporting kids to ensure they feel valued and enough.

12 snips
Jun 30, 2025 • 4min
Stop Questioning Yourself Like This
Navigating parenting can be challenging, and self-doubt often creeps in. The podcast encourages parents to step back and embrace their unique styles. It emphasizes the importance of teaching financial literacy to children without adding stress. By fostering a supportive community and utilizing parenting tools, fathers can significantly impact their kids' financial awareness. Discover how modern fatherhood is transforming and what it means for today’s families.