

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 7, 2023 • 4min
It’s A Bad Look
The discussion dives into the repercussions of overbearing parenting in sports. It highlights incidents like Ja Morant's dad getting into a fight during a game and OBJ's dad stirring up drama online. The conversation emphasizes the importance of letting kids make their own choices and the cultural implications of parents interfering in their athletic journeys. LaVar Ball's outlandish claims about his sons as athletes and entrepreneurs are also critiqued, showcasing the chaotic blend of sports and parenting.

Mar 6, 2023 • 4min
We Are All Unprepared
The podcast delves into the unexpected challenges of parenthood faced by a man who suddenly became a guardian in the 1930s. It emphasizes the importance of adapting and continuously learning as a parent. The speaker reflects on the heavy responsibilities that shape both the children’s and his future. There's a heartfelt exploration of love, commitment, and the lessons learned from life’s surprises.

Mar 4, 2023 • 28min
Daily Dad On Saying No And Valuing Your Time
Nils Parker, a writing partner of Ryan Holiday and a parent of young kids, shares valuable insights on parenting and time management. They discuss the importance of saying no to non-essential commitments to protect family time. The conversation delves into setting boundaries in both personal and professional relationships, tackling the challenges of kindness fatigue. Nils also offers practical parenting solutions to enhance family life, while emphasizing the need for assertiveness to prioritize emotional well-being and productivity.

Mar 3, 2023 • 3min
The Only Thing To Get Put Out By
The podcast explores the importance of prioritizing family over work commitments. It highlights a revealing moment from Jimmy Carter's life when a last-minute schedule change upset him—not for the time or communication, but because it interfered with his plan to take his daughter to the circus. This story serves as a powerful reminder to cherish and protect family time, showcasing how even the busiest individuals should value their personal connections.

Mar 2, 2023 • 3min
Don’t Get Caught Hanging Your Head
Explore the haunting emotional depths of the song 'I Hung My Head' as it reflects on the weight of parenting decisions. The discussion highlights themes of regret and the long-lasting consequences our choices can have on loved ones. Discover the mesmerizing contrast between Sting's and Johnny Cash's interpretations, and how music can evoke powerful messages about responsibility and care. Tune in for an engaging look at how art mirrors our parenting journeys.

Mar 1, 2023 • 3min
Beware The Power You Wield
This conversation delves into the profound influence parents have on their children's emotional growth. A compelling story of a strict Marine General highlights the importance of compassion in parenting. The tone and standards set by parents significantly affect kids, emphasizing that every interaction counts. It’s a reminder that the weight of our words and actions shapes our children’s well-being.

Feb 28, 2023 • 4min
Why This Is So Terrifying
Parenting opens your heart in ways you never thought possible, but with that love comes vulnerability. The emotional complexities of being a parent are unveiled, exploring how deep connections increase fears of loss and anxiety. This paradox makes the journey of parenting both beautiful and terrifying, highlighting the delicate balance between love and the fear of what could go wrong.

Feb 27, 2023 • 6min
They Learned This Lesson For You
Rob Delaney shares the heart-wrenching journey of his son Henry's battle with a brain tumor, reflecting on the fragility of life. The discussion emphasizes cherishing every moment with loved ones and prioritizing family connections. Through this deeply personal story, listeners are encouraged to embrace love and presence amidst life’s distractions.

Feb 25, 2023 • 17min
Daily Dad and David Rubenstein on Raising Happy and Healthy Kids
David Rubenstein, co-founder of The Carlyle Group and renowned philanthropist, shares his wisdom on raising happy, healthy kids in a world of wealth. He discusses the challenges affluent parents face in building strong family ties while juggling career ambitions. Rubenstein emphasizes the legacy of parental focus and the importance of financial education for children. He advocates for finding personal meaning and happiness beyond money, encouraging parents to instill values of hard work and self-discovery in future generations.

4 snips
Feb 24, 2023 • 4min
Meet Them While There Is Still Time
Exploring the alienation of modern society, the discussion focuses on the bizarre age segregation prevalent today. The importance of intergenerational connections is highlighted, emphasizing how children benefit from engaging with older individuals. Wisdom from the past can immensely enrich the present, making it essential for parents to encourage these valuable interactions. The insights present a thought-provoking reflection on fostering deeper relationships across generations.