

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

Sep 27, 2023 • 3min
Do They Get To See This Too?
In this discussion, the importance of sharing professional milestones with children takes center stage. The hosts explore how letting kids witness pivotal career moments can deepen their understanding of parental identity. They highlight how such experiences can evoke pride and connection, helping children see their parents beyond just everyday roles. This perspective challenges the notion that only the mundane matters, sparking a conversation about the value of celebrating achievements together.

Sep 26, 2023 • 2min
It’s Just Too Much For Them
Modern children are drowning in choices, from endless streaming options to various activities and food. The pressure of these decisions can be overwhelming and stressful. Discussion delves into practical strategies to simplify choices, promoting a more manageable childhood. By limiting options, parents can help kids build resilience and decision-making skills for the future.

Sep 25, 2023 • 4min
This Is Something You Should Do
Discover the transformative power of walking with your children. This discussion highlights how shared walks can foster deeper connections and stimulate meaningful conversations. Personal stories and historical anecdotes illustrate the mental and physical benefits. It’s a captivating exploration of simple moments that create lasting memories and enrich family relationships.

4 snips
Sep 23, 2023 • 21min
Ryan And Wife Samantha Holiday On The ability To Handle Frustration
Samantha Holiday, wife of author Ryan Holiday and a dedicated co-parent, shares her insights on emotional resilience and parenting. They discuss the importance of modeling appropriate responses to frustration for their kids. Personal anecdotes highlight the challenges of navigating emotional reactions and the necessity of validating children's feelings. The conversation also addresses parenting guilt and the need to respect each child's unique journey, stressing the art of persuasion over control in effective parenting.

Sep 22, 2023 • 3min
Don’t Let Your Curiosity Atrophy
Dive into the fascinating world of parenthood, where endless questions from kids keep dads on their toes. Discover the importance of nurturing curiosity in both children and adults. Emphasize staying inquisitive and embracing a love for learning, just like your little ones. Uncover how transforming your approach to questions can foster a deeper bond between parents and kids, making the journey of discovery even more enjoyable.

Sep 21, 2023 • 4min
Are You The Splendid Or The Vile?
In a compelling exploration of wartime London, contrasting themes of human resilience and moral darkness emerge. The discussion pivots to parenting, highlighting the balance between beauty and hardship while nurturing futures. Parents play a crucial role in fostering kindness amidst chaos, shaping a supportive home environment. This blend of history and personal reflection offers insights into the struggles and triumphs of the human spirit.

Sep 20, 2023 • 3min
It’ll Come To You Later
Navigating the chaotic moments of parenting can feel overwhelming. The discussion emphasizes the importance of finding perspective amidst stress. It encourages parents to slow down, stay mindful, and cherish their time with their children. By shifting focus from immediate worries, one can appreciate the little moments that truly matter.

Sep 19, 2023 • 3min
There Are Only Hard Decisions
Parenting isn't a walk in the park; it's often a maze of tough choices. The discussion highlights the lack of a simple blueprint for raising children. Instead, it promotes the idea of embracing the complexities and learning from them. Curious parallels are drawn between parenting and leadership, showing how both roles require strong decision-making skills. By acknowledging the hurdles, parents can better navigate the journey ahead.

Sep 18, 2023 • 4min
This Is A Very Underrated Skill
Explore the underrated skill of frustration management in children. Learn how everyday challenges can be teaching moments for resilience and emotional strength. Discover the importance of modeling effective responses to help kids navigate life's hurdles. This focus on frustration management can lay the groundwork for happier, more resilient future adults.

Sep 16, 2023 • 12min
Ryan Holiday And Paul Kix On Balancing Techniques And Being Self-Conscious
Dive into the delicate dance of balancing family and passion. Discover how successful writers find time for creativity amidst life's chaos. The discussion highlights the transformative power of structured routines and early mornings to boost productivity. Explore the invigorating relationship between passion and work, and learn to embrace the joy of being present in both writing and parenting. This conversation offers insights on maintaining creativity while fully engaging in family moments.