
The 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.
Latest episodes

Feb 12, 2025 • 4min
Hold Them To You Like This
Delve into the intricate art of nurturing relationships in parenting. Discover the balance between affection and support while avoiding the pitfalls of over-involvement. Learn how creating a nurturing environment can foster individuality and enhance family bonds. Find insightful tips on navigating the challenges of parenting with care and intention.

6 snips
Feb 11, 2025 • 4min
Sometimes This Is All You Can Do
Parents often feel helpless amidst global crises, grappling with vulnerability. The discussion emphasizes grounding oneself and prioritizing children's well-being. Embracing the present becomes crucial as the speaker draws inspiration from 'Hamilton' and 'Bomb Shelter.' Love and presence take center stage, encouraging listeners to cherish everyday moments despite uncertainties. This poignant reflection on parenting reminds us that even in tough times, the little joys are worth celebrating.

Feb 10, 2025 • 3min
It’s All So Delicate
Embrace the delicate balance of joy and vulnerability in family life. Moments of happiness are fleeting, so it's essential to savor them while they last. The discussion highlights how quickly dreams can turn into challenges. Evocative song lyrics are woven throughout, illustrating the bittersweet nature of parenting. Cherishing every experience can lead to a richer, more fulfilling family life.

20 snips
Feb 8, 2025 • 15min
Matthew McConaughey: "I’ve Hit My Sweet Spot as a Father"
Matthew McConaughey, the acclaimed actor behind hits like Dallas Buyers Club and Interstellar, shares insights on the whirlwind of parenting. He discusses the fast-paced changes as kids grow, transitioning from guiding to embracing a friendship with them. McConaughey emphasizes the necessity of trust and open communication to nurture strong familial bonds. With compelling personal stories, he highlights the importance of allowing vulnerability in conversations to create a safe space for honest dialogue among parents and teens.

Feb 7, 2025 • 4min
Why Do We Do This?
Delve into the impact of parental influences on our emotional lives. The discussion highlights how shame from our upbringing shapes our parenting styles. It underscores the importance of empathy and self-awareness in guiding children, rather than criticizing them. A historical reference to Churchill's relationship with his father enriches the narrative, providing insight into how our personal struggles can affect interactions with our kids. It's a thought-provoking take on breaking generational cycles.

7 snips
Feb 6, 2025 • 4min
If You Want Their Respect…
Discover why being present is crucial in parenting. Unplugging from distractions can significantly improve your bond with your children. When you show emotional availability, it can transform their behavior and create a positive atmosphere at home. Tune in to explore how focusing on the moment can lead to lasting respect and connection.

Feb 5, 2025 • 4min
How Else Are They Supposed To Get This?
The discussion dives into the balance of nurturing independence versus the desire for compliance in parenting. It highlights the challenges parents face, especially regarding healthy eating habits and children’s vitamins. The focus is on fostering unique thinking in kids instead of just teaching them to follow instructions blindly. This approach aims to cultivate confident, self-reliant individuals ready to navigate the world.

4 snips
Feb 4, 2025 • 4min
Where To Find The Reward
Parenting isn't just about waiting for big milestones like graduations or weddings. The joys come from those small, everyday moments that often go unnoticed. Celebrate your child's laughter and growth as daily rewards. Embrace the little victories—these are what truly make the journey worthwhile.

Feb 3, 2025 • 4min
This Is What Completeness Comes From
Explore the beauty of finding fulfillment in everyday parenting moments. Discover how simple interactions and shared laughter can lead to deeper family connections. The conversation challenges traditional views of success and happiness, reminding us that life isn’t just about grand accomplishments. Instead, it's those small, seemingly mundane moments that truly enrich our lives.

7 snips
Feb 1, 2025 • 13min
Living With a Stoic | Ryan and Sam Holiday
Ryan and Sam explore the transformative power of Stoicism in their personal lives, particularly in parenting and marriage. They reflect on how Marcus Aurelius' Meditations have influenced their relationship. The duo shares humorous insights on applying timeless wisdom amidst daily chaos. They discuss navigating the unpredictable nature of parenting, emphasizing adaptability and patience. Additionally, they highlight the importance of emotional intelligence and guiding children through their emotions with a Stoic approach.
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