

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

Jan 28, 2023 • 21min
Daily Dad On Delegating Time For A Successful Home Life
Nils Parker, Ryan Holiday's writing partner, shares insights on achieving work-life balance and effective time management. They discuss the challenges of self-employment, highlighting the tension between flexibility and overcommitment. Nils emphasizes the need for intentional scheduling to prioritize family time amidst professional duties. The conversation also explores setting boundaries to protect home life and self-care for parents to enhance engagement. It's a rich discussion on crafting a fulfilling, balanced life with loved ones.

Jan 27, 2023 • 3min
It's A Lie And An Excuse
Explore how a parent's emotional state profoundly influences their child's development. Decisions like shutting down or overcommitting can have lasting effects. Holding onto resentments or setting unfair standards impacts the parent-child relationship. It’s a reminder that nurturing self-care and emotional health is crucial for everyone involved.

Jan 26, 2023 • 3min
Give Them A Minute!
This discussion emphasizes the importance of giving kids space after school. It highlights how allowing them to unwind can promote better emotional support. Strategies are shared for creating a welcoming environment that encourages children to open up. Parents are reminded to listen and share, fostering deeper connections. It's all about being present and attentive to their needs!

Jan 25, 2023 • 4min
The Block Doesn’t Always Chip
The discussion dives into the importance of recognizing that children are not mere reflections of their parents. It emphasizes celebrating their individuality and the unique paths they choose. Parents are encouraged to support their children’s personal growth rather than impose their past experiences and expectations. The conversation reminds us that while we have high hopes for our kids, it's vital to let them carve out their own identities and embrace their differences.

Jan 24, 2023 • 4min
Does It Have To Be Hard To Be Your Kid?
Explore the emotional struggles of children born into privilege, like Randolph Churchill and Claudia Williams. Despite their wealthy backgrounds, they often grapple with unique pressures. The discussion emphasizes the delicate balance of support and challenge in parenting. Highlighting the importance of resilience, a challenge coin symbolizes the growth that comes from overcoming difficulties. Discover how supportive parenting can help navigate the complexities of such privileged lives.

Jan 23, 2023 • 4min
It's Always Been Like This
The chaos of children at play is a beautiful constant through time. From laughter to mess, the essence of childhood remains unchanged, which brings comfort to todays parents. Historical reflections remind us that despite evolving challenges, the journey of parenting stays remarkably similar. Embracing the noise and craziness becomes a badge of survival. After all, it’s a wild ride, but you’re not alone in navigating it!

6 snips
Jan 21, 2023 • 16min
Daily Dad On Making The Most Of Your Time With Your Kids
Reflect on the fleeting nature of childhood and the importance of making the most of your time with your kids. Discover how prioritizing family and meaningful experiences can bring joy, especially during tough times. Learn about the necessity of solitude for parents' mental well-being, emphasizing practices like yoga and meditation. Plus, explore the power of reading in fostering curiosity and behavior, encouraging parents to ignite a love for literature in their children.

Jan 20, 2023 • 6min
You Must Learn To Measure Life On Different Terms
Explore the emotional journey of a father learning to embrace his son's unique path. Dive into the idea that nurturing character is more important than career achievements. Discover the wisdom of memento mori, reminding parents of life’s transience. Reflect on the powerful lessons from Douglas MacArthur, highlighting the need for acceptance and prioritizing values in parenting.

Jan 19, 2023 • 6min
Here's What Happens If You're Selfish
Explore the intricate dance between personal desires and responsibilities. The discussion dives into the costs of selfishness, especially within families, shedding light on the regrets and lessons learned from past mistakes. Listeners are prompted to reflect on their own behaviors and how they affect relationships. It's a meaningful look at balancing ambition with humility, and the importance of selflessness in nurturing deeper connections.

4 snips
Jan 18, 2023 • 4min
Ask Them This Question Every Day
The discussion highlights the power of meaningful questions in parenting. Instead of focusing solely on grades and behavior, it encourages asking about acts of kindness and empathy. This shift helps reinforce core values and encourages kids to engage with their communities. By fostering deeper conversations, parents can create a more meaningful connection with their children.