

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

7 snips
Sep 5, 2025 • 4min
Can You Give Them This?
 Discover how nurturing a child's intellectual curiosity can lead to extraordinary achievements, with insightful anecdotes about the Wright brothers. Learn about the financial dynamics of podcast production and the importance of advertisements in delivering quality content. Plus, find out about ad-free listening options that enhance your experience. It's a blend of parenting wisdom and behind-the-scenes insights! 

7 snips
Sep 4, 2025 • 6min
Is This Fixing Anything?
 Parents often find their children's corner-cutting and irresponsibility frustrating. This discussion encourages a calm approach to respond effectively and strengthen connections. The concept of pausing before reacting is highlighted, drawing from ancient wisdom to promote thoughtful responses in stressful moments. Listeners are introduced to a tool that helps instill this practice, reminding them that a moment of reflection can lead to better outcomes in parenting. 

22 snips
Sep 3, 2025 • 6min
This Is Why We Teach History
 Explore the complexities of teaching history, from its darker aspects like racism and colonialism to the empowerment it can bring to future generations. Discover how understanding the past, including poignant stories like that of Emmett Till, can inspire kids to advocate for justice. Plus, learn about making meaningful career choices and utilizing resources to maximize your impact. Dive into these thought-provoking topics that challenge and inspire. 

17 snips
Sep 2, 2025 • 4min
Why Do You Think It Will Be Worth It?
 Explore the sacrifices ambitious parents make while chasing success. The discussion delves into whether these sacrifices strengthen family bonds or lead to regret. Historical examples illuminate the complexities of ambition versus family life, prompting introspection about priorities. Join a community that offers essential parenting tools and support, making the journey a little easier. 

4 snips
Sep 1, 2025 • 4min
Why Did You Expect Anything Else?
 The discussion dives into the often unrealistic expectations parents have about their children and the parenting journey. It encourages embracing the chaos and challenges, viewing them as essential for growth rather than failures. Listeners are reminded that parenting is a messy, unpredictable adventure, and finding community and support can make all the difference. 

Aug 30, 2025 • 16min
Talking About Taylor Swift Turned Into a Parenting Lesson | Ryan and Sam Holiday
 Dive into the quirky blend of Taylor Swift, parenting, and the creative grind! Discover how the pressures of public recognition turn family outings into fun competitions. The hosts humorously critique media obsessions while reflecting on the balance of intrinsic motivation versus external expectations. As they prepare for book launches, they share heartfelt insights on how parenting reshapes their views on success. It's a lively chat about juggling creativity and family life—all through the lens of pop culture! 

5 snips
Aug 29, 2025 • 4min
Isn’t This What We Want Ourselves?
 The discussion highlights the struggle children face in finding their place and self-worth. It emphasizes the importance of parental support and continuous learning. Drawing inspiration from Marcus Aurelius and Eleanor Roosevelt, the conversation underscores how nurturing guidance can profoundly impact a child's confidence. Ultimately, it stresses the responsibility parents have in affirming their children's value, especially during tough times. 

13 snips
Aug 28, 2025 • 6min
We Have To Do This For Them
 Discover how to ignite curiosity in children by drawing inspiration from the Wright brothers' innovative spirit. Learn the significance of nurturing their interests without the pressure of profitability. Explore the essential role of mentorship in building resilience and critical thinking skills. This discussion also highlights the latest insights from The Stoic Virtues series, linking timeless wisdom to effective parenting strategies. It’s all about fostering a love for exploration and growth in the next generation! 

7 snips
Aug 27, 2025 • 5min
Who Decides Who Gets What?
 Navigating the balance between work and family can be a daunting task for parents. Insights from a community of fathers highlight practical strategies for prioritizing family life. The discussion centers around effective time management and the ultimate gift of parenting tools. Listeners will find inspiration in the shared experiences, making it easier to achieve a harmonious work-life balance. 

12 snips
Aug 26, 2025 • 5min
Yelling Doesn’t Undo It, You Know
 Explore the importance of pausing before reacting when parenting. Discover how thoughtful communication fosters trust instead of resorting to yelling. Learn that guiding your children through their mistakes creates a more meaningful connection. Delve into practical tools that enhance parenting skills and nurture creativity. 


