

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

Nov 25, 2023 • 16min
Ryan and Sam On Reflecting Through Parenting And Solving The Problem
Samantha Holiday, co-parent and co-host, joins Ryan Holiday for an insightful discussion on the intricacies of parenting. They tackle the importance of intentional conversations and shared values, especially in challenging times. The couple reflects on the need for connection and quality time with their children, emphasizing calm communication. They also share practical tips, like morning health routines, that contribute to their parenting success. It's a heartfelt exploration of growth and collaboration as parents.

Nov 24, 2023 • 5min
How To Raise Generous Kids
Explore the importance of raising kids who understand generosity and empathy. Discover how modeling giving behaviors and involving them in charitable activities can make a difference. Learn about a fundraising initiative aimed at tackling food insecurity, and see how families can participate together. The discussion emphasizes instilling altruistic values to counteract selfishness, fostering a generation that cares for others.

Nov 23, 2023 • 4min
No One Has It Better Than You
Explore the importance of gratitude, even in challenging times. Learn how historical insights can help shift your perspective from sorrow to appreciation. Reflect on the privileges of modern life and discover the positives in your situation. The conversation touches on the need for a better safety net for families and the desire for a world that prioritizes parental support. It's a call to recognize that while things could be better, there's value in acknowledging what we have.

Nov 22, 2023 • 4min
It’s Been Like This A While
Kids have always been a handful! Their chaotic play, sleepless nights, and overwhelming energy seem to be timeless traits. Reflecting on Pieter Bruegel the Elder’s 463-year-old painting of children's games, it becomes clear that today's kids mirror those in the past. The discussion delves into how the essence of childhood remains unchanged, emphasizing the value of classic literature in shaping modern parenting and the universal lessons it offers.

Nov 21, 2023 • 3min
This Is What To Train Them In
In this discussion, the hosts explore the importance of recognizing the inherent goodness in children. They remind us that even when kids misbehave or face challenges, their core is still pure and innocent. Emphasizing a supportive environment, the conversation shifts towards nurturing emotional resilience rather than leaning on punishment. The aim is to guide children through tough situations while fostering their moral upbringing, keeping in mind that every child has a good heart.

Nov 20, 2023 • 3min
How To Care Less What Others Think
The podcast explores how the journey of parenthood shifts perspectives on self-worth. It emphasizes the diminishing need for external validation as one matures. Conan O’Brien shares insights on finding security in family over societal approval. The discussion highlights the liberating effects of prioritizing meaningful relationships, which can fuel creativity and personal growth.

Nov 19, 2023 • 16min
Ryan & Sam On The Right Way To Praise
This conversation dives into the chaotic joys of family life, focusing on the challenges of keeping cars clean while juggling kids and snacks. The hosts share lighthearted anecdotes about parenting guilt and the unrealistic expectations often seen on social media. They discuss how these struggles reflect broader parenting experiences and emphasize the importance of authenticity. Humorous tales of messy cars and hasty decisions highlight that perfection is not the standard for parents.

Nov 17, 2023 • 3min
It’s Not Annoying, It’s The Job
Fatherhood often feels like a whirlwind of errands, from fetching late-night water to shopping for college essentials. Daily tasks play a crucial role in strengthening the parent-child bond. The conversation highlights the stressors that come with the holiday rush and underscores the importance of seeking therapy for support. Embracing these responsibilities can lead to deeper connections, making the journey of parenting all the more rewarding.

Nov 16, 2023 • 13min
You Don’t Have The Time
The conversation dives into the challenges parents face from online critics and the importance of redirecting that energy towards their kids. Engaging in online conflicts often detracts from meaningful family time. The podcast also highlights the crucial role of quality sleep in decision-making, introducing a special sleep pack as a potential solution. Additionally, personal anecdotes about children's activities are shared, alongside tips for outdoor gear and mental wellness resources. A refreshing take on parenting in the digital age!

Nov 15, 2023 • 4min
Only They Can Say
Gandhi, a revered figure, faced struggles in his role as a father. His demanding nature created distance from his children, highlighting the complexities of parenting. A biographer shares key insights on balancing strength and vulnerability in fatherhood. Listeners are invited to reflect on the lessons from Gandhi’s life, both inspiring and cautionary, reminding us of the intricate dynamics in familial relationships.