

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 14, 2023 • 3min
You Can’t Fault Them For Your Hypocrisy
The conversation dives into the contradictions often present in parenting, using a poignant story from Rinker Buck's childhood. It captures the mix of fear and expectation when a father returned home, illustrating how unfair rules can shape a child's experience. The discussion emphasizes the need for fairness and consistency, especially during tough times like holidays. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking look at the complexities of parental authority and the emotional impacts on children.

Nov 13, 2023 • 4min
Try To Get To This Place
Parenting often feels like a series of challenges we must tackle head-on. From kids not listening to handling dangerous situations, the struggle is real for many. The conversation highlights the fine line between teaching and power struggles, revealing how easy it is to slip into frustration. Emphasizing the importance of perspective, it encourages parents to nurture better communication and patience to foster deeper connections with their children.

9 snips
Nov 11, 2023 • 13min
Ryan Holiday And Adam Grant On Creating Your Own Momentum
Ryan Holiday teams up with Adam Grant to explore the journey of personal growth and parenting. They discuss the importance of self-compassion and setting realistic goals. The conversation dives into balancing achievement with expectations, encouraging joy in successes. Listeners learn how resilience shapes progress, illustrated by athletes who thrive after setbacks. They also touch on current sports culture and the pursuit of greater potential through growth.

7 snips
Nov 10, 2023 • 2min
Do You Know Your Purpose?
Explore the profound question of purpose and motivation in life. The discussion urges self-reflection on why we work so hard and fight for certain causes. An enlightening analogy to 'The Road' highlights the profound responsibilities of fatherhood. Embrace the importance of raising the next generation with passion and intent.

Nov 9, 2023 • 3min
Beware This Energy
Explore the impact of negative parenting attitudes and the importance of compassion when raising children. The discussion emphasizes unconditional love, even in moments of disagreement. Tune in to learn how to support your kids and let them be their true selves, rather than molding them to fit your expectations. Discover the value of having fewer judgments and opinions as a parent!

Nov 8, 2023 • 3min
How Much Of This Do You Give Them?
Explore how much parents truly give to their children, from financial support to personal sacrifices. The discussion highlights the essential nature of undivided attention in forming deeper connections. It introduces the concept of PNP, or phone-free playtime, encouraging distraction-free interactions to foster stronger relationships with kids. Dive into the intricate balance of parenting and the rewards of prioritizing quality time.

Nov 7, 2023 • 3min
It’s The Worst Lie
Parents often say, 'I do it all for them,' masking self-serving motivations with a veneer of selflessness. The discussion uncovers the irony of self-sacrifice, emphasizing that true family connection is more valuable than mere financial provision. It challenges the notion of parental success by highlighting that simply working hard isn't enough; cultivating relationships is key. The conversation prompts listeners to reflect on their priorities and the true impact of their actions on their family's well-being.

Nov 6, 2023 • 4min
It Will All Be Past Tense Soon
The discussion highlights the bittersweet nature of parenting as time slips away. It captures the tender moments of bedtime rituals and the sudden shifts to independence. Listeners are encouraged to cherish every fleeting interaction with their children, balancing joy and sorrow. The narrative inspires a mindfulness that appreciates the journey of parenthood in all its complexities.

5 snips
Nov 5, 2023 • 15min
Ryan & Sam On Emotional Vaccination
Samantha Holiday, co-host of the podcast and wife of Ryan Holiday, brings her unique parenting insights to the discussion. They explore the delicate balance of expressing pride and relief in kids. The pair dives into fostering intrinsic motivation over external validation, highlighting how crucial self-reflection is in their children's growth. They also discuss the importance of nurturing independence and the significance of quiet moments amid household chaos, encouraging deeper emotional awareness in their kids' lives.

Nov 4, 2023 • 5min
They Need This, Whether They Know It Or Not
Discover how ancient philosophy can transform parenting today. This discussion emphasizes the value of Stoicism in cultivating resilience and emotional intelligence in both parents and children. Learn practical insights from historical thinkers to enhance family dynamics. Plus, there's an exciting new course offering live Q&As, providing an interactive platform for exploring Stoic principles. Embrace philosophy as a vital tool for nurturing a harmonious home!