

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

Mar 20, 2023 • 3min
There Is A Last Time To All Of It
Reflecting on the bittersweet reality of childhood, this podcast dives into the fleeting moments that parents and children share. It encourages listeners to cherish both the joyful and challenging experiences, highlighting the importance of being present in everyday interactions. The discussion reveals that the last time playing together often goes unrecognized, making it vital to value each moment. This thoughtful exploration offers a comforting reminder to savor the journey of parenting.

8 snips
Mar 18, 2023 • 18min
Daily Dad on Pointless Power Struggles
Delve into the nuanced world of parenting as Ryan and Nils discuss the fine line between setting boundaries and getting upset over trivial matters. They tackle mealtime conflicts, highlighting the importance of flexibility. The conversation dives into managing children's behavior without falling into power struggles and emphasizes the need for open communication and healthy routines. They reveal that perceived defiance in kids often stems from natural development, not conscious challenges to authority, encouraging kindness over strict compliance.

Mar 17, 2023 • 6min
If You Don’t Believe In Them, Who Will?
Explore the inspiring tale of Jim Valvano, who led a seemingly underdog basketball team to victory against all odds. Discover how his unwavering belief fueled not just their championship run, but also the importance of nurturing children's dreams. This heartening discussion emphasizes the transformative power of faith in oneself and others, urging parents to instill confidence in their kids and support their aspirations. It's a reminder that sometimes, believing is the first step to achieving greatness.

Mar 16, 2023 • 3min
Are You Sharing This?
Discover the emotional complexities of father-son relationships through the lens of Jimmy Carter's upbringing. Explore how his father's strict nature coexisted with moments of kindness. The discussion highlights the importance of communication and connection across generations in building strong familial bonds. Delve into old-fashioned values contrasted with the flaws that come with them, showcasing how these dynamics shape a person's path.

Mar 15, 2023 • 4min
You Can Be Safe Without Being Crazy
The conversation dives into the balancing act of parenting, highlighting the importance of safety without becoming overprotective. It explores the issues caused by both extreme caution and negligence. Parents are encouraged to adopt practical safety measures while still fostering their children's independence. The discussion challenges the notion that being overly cautious is beneficial, emphasizing mindfulness over paranoia.

Mar 14, 2023 • 4min
Don’t Let Them Be Alone With This
The podcast dives into the emotional struggles children face and emphasizes the importance of open conversations between parents and kids. Using a poignant scene from a classic novel, it illustrates how vulnerability can foster deeper connections. Topics like love, fear, and insecurities are boldly tackled, stressing that proactive communication can alleviate feelings of isolation. It's a heartfelt reminder that addressing tough subjects can strengthen familial bonds.

Mar 13, 2023 • 4min
This Is The Greatest Form Of Love
Explore the essence of love in parenting, where meaningful engagement trumps material gifts. Learn how dedicated time and attention create deeper connections with children. Discover the powerful role of teaching and protection in shaping their lives. It's a heartfelt discussion on what it truly means to love and care for the next generation.

Mar 11, 2023 • 10min
Daily Dad On Keeping Your Kids Safe
Parenting can be overwhelming, but finding gratitude in those fleeting moments is crucial. Self-care is emphasized as a foundational element for parents, including the benefits of therapy. Personal stories shed light on the delicate balance of nurturing kids while navigating life’s chaos. The conversation turns to cautious parenting, focusing on minimizing risks and the importance of keeping children safe from preventable dangers. Join in for insights on handling stress while cherishing precious family time.

Mar 10, 2023 • 4min
This Changes How They See The World
Explore the profound impact of parental emotional engagement on children's self-perception and well-being. The discussion challenges common excuses for emotional distance, revealing how these behaviors shape a child's worldview. Uncover the crucial role of emotional presence in parenting as a transformative factor, rather than dismissing children's experiences as unmemorable. This conversation encourages a deeper reflection on how our actions influence future generations.

Mar 9, 2023 • 3min
Remember Who Sets The Curve
Parenting can feel daunting with alarming statistics about child safety swirling around. The discussion delves into the anxieties parents face, highlighting the need to differentiate between manageable risks and random dangers. It reassures listeners that their protective instincts are crucial in navigating these challenges. Embrace responsible parenting without getting overwhelmed by fear!