

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

Oct 10, 2023 • 3min
Are You Good At Hearing?
The discussion begins with a poignant excerpt from a musician's memoir about the struggles of being heard. It explores the fundamental importance of validating children's emotions and how neglecting to do so can lead to feelings of isolation. The episode highlights the damaging effects of gaslighting from caregivers and underscores the necessity of active listening. Ultimately, it encourages parents to create a nurturing atmosphere where children's feelings are recognized and respected.

Oct 9, 2023 • 4min
They’re Probably Just Tired Of This
Discover why kids often seem grouchy or stuck, from tiredness to hunger, and how these factors affect their behavior. Unpack the complexities of children’s decision fatigue and learn practical tips to simplify choices for them. Explore deeper issues like depression and emotional struggles that kids may not fully understand. This insightful discussion offers parents essential tools to navigate their children's moods and behaviors.

5 snips
Oct 7, 2023 • 11min
Ryan Holiday And Christina Pazsitzky On Making Kids Priority
Ryan and Christina dive into the juggling act of parenting, emphasizing the importance of seeking support for personal growth. They humorously explore introducing goth culture into kids' creative spaces. Reflecting on their own teenage years, they discuss isolation and the need for self-expression. Navigating parenting in a digital world takes center stage, highlighting the contrast between pre-tech childhoods and today's challenges. They also touch on nostalgia and healthy parenting choices, sharing amusing tales from daily life.

Oct 6, 2023 • 4min
You Were Given Something Special
Dive into the profound responsibility of parenthood and the joy of embracing your child's uniqueness. The discussion highlights the importance of mindful interactions and cherishing every moment together. It encourages parents to resist the pressure of imposing expectations, fostering a nurturing environment for their child's growth. Celebrate the extraordinary gifts each child brings to the world!

4 snips
Oct 5, 2023 • 4min
This Is Always The Goal
Navigating conversations with teenagers can be daunting, but open communication is vital. Unpacking feelings during vacations can lead to refreshing insights. Handling adult children's challenges, like divorce, requires compassion and understanding. Tackling frustrations with a spouse can turn resentment into productive discussions. Also, the power of restful sleep is emphasized as essential for overall well-being, with tips for better rest thrown in. Personal anecdotes add depth to these relatable themes.

Oct 4, 2023 • 4min
It Can All Go Away In A Second
Dive into the profound idea that confronting the unthinkable can enhance your parenting. Explore how reflecting on potential loss can lead to a deeper appreciation for your time with your kids. Ancient wisdom from Marcus Aurelius and Epictetus guides this thoughtful discussion. Discover how embracing life’s uncertainties can transform your approach to parenting, fostering intentionality and gratitude.

Oct 3, 2023 • 4min
This Is How To Hold Them To You
Discussing the delicate balance of parenting, the conversation highlights how overbearing behaviors can push children away. Anecdotes about John O’Connor and Tim Hardaway Sr. showcase the consequences of smothering love and pressure. The focus is on fostering deeper connections through love, support, and engaging projects, ensuring a nurturing environment that keeps kids close without suffocating them.

Oct 2, 2023 • 3min
You’re Going To Regret This
Imagine dealing with the heavy emotions of regret when it comes to parenting. The discussion dives into the challenges of anger and conflict, highlighting how these feelings can lead to lasting remorse. It emphasizes the necessity of patience and understanding in your relationships with children. Ultimately, it serves as a poignant reminder to treasure each moment, as the dynamics of family can shift unexpectedly.

Sep 30, 2023 • 15min
Ryan And Wife Samantha Holiday On Being Challenged More In The Parenting Domain
Ryan and Samantha discuss the importance of stepping beyond their own upbringings in parenting. They tackle the challenges posed by social media, advocating for a balance between fostering freedom and providing guidance. The couple emphasizes cultivating a positive home environment to enhance children's emotional health. They also address the pressures of societal expectations and the need for resilience against negativity. Ultimately, they encourage recognizing each child as an individual, especially in the face of online influences.

Sep 29, 2023 • 3min
Store These Moments In Your Soul
Fatherhood can feel like a whirlwind, where chaos reigns and sleep is a distant memory. Stepping on Legos brings new meaning to pain and frustration. Yet, amidst this storm, the importance of finding stillness emerges. Embracing calm can strengthen bonds with children and restore inner peace. Reflecting on these chaotic moments can transform them into treasured memories.