
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

Jan 3, 2023 • 3min
This Is What You'll Remember
Reflecting on parenting, the discussion emphasizes the beauty of ordinary moments that often become the most cherished memories. It’s not about extravagant events but the simple, daily experiences that shape our lives. A special medallion symbolizes how fleeting these precious times can be, encouraging parents to savor the present. Ultimately, the message resonates: real joy lies in the everyday, making the ordinary extraordinary.

Jan 2, 2023 • 3min
Is This Really Something To Be Proud Of?
The discussion dives into the stark contrast between immaculate homes showcased by influencers and the messy reality of family life. It highlights the pressure parents feel to maintain a perfect image while embracing the inevitable chaos of raising kids. Listeners are encouraged to find joy in the imperfections and celebrate the messy moments instead of succumbing to jealousy or insecurity. It's a refreshing reminder that parenting is not about appearances, but about the laughter and love amid the clutter.

Dec 31, 2022 • 13min
Daily Dad On Maintaining Your Kids Presence
This discussion dives into the delicate dance between parenting and material success, revealing how the chase for wealth can inadvertently push kids away. It underscores the importance of meaningful family rituals over materialism, especially during the holidays. The hosts share insights on navigating emotional complexities at family gatherings and challenge the idea of obligation versus genuine connection. Ultimately, they emphasize that true wealth is found in emotional bonds rather than achievements, urging parents to cherish their kids' presence.

Dec 30, 2022 • 3min
Your Kids Can Have A More Grateful Outlook
Teaching kids about gratitude is crucial in helping them appreciate life’s gifts. The conversation emphasizes how stress and daily challenges can overshadow this appreciation. A practical weekly exercise is suggested for families to foster a mindset of gratitude together. This practice can positively shape their outlook, reminding them how remarkable it is just to be alive, regardless of life's ups and downs.

Dec 29, 2022 • 5min
Everyone Needs This
The discussion centers around the vital role of encouragement in parenting. It emphasizes that positive words and expressions of love can significantly boost a child's confidence. Personal anecdotes illustrate how loving support fosters emotional well-being. The conversation underlines the responsibility of parents to uplift their children rather than diminish them, reinforcing the idea that belief and encouragement lay the foundation for a child's growth.

Dec 28, 2022 • 4min
How Much Do You Want It
Parents often use their kids as a convenient excuse to dodge commitments. The conversation dives into the challenge of balancing parenting with personal aspirations. It emphasizes the necessity of nurturing one's own identity alongside family responsibilities. The hosts urge parents to confront their tendencies to neglect self-care and personal goals, advocating for a healthy blend of both worlds. It's a thought-provoking look at how to prioritize your needs while being a committed parent.

Dec 27, 2022 • 3min
Demand The Best Of Yourself For Them
As the year wraps up, many start reflecting on their resolutions and personal growth. The discussion stresses the importance of demanding the best from oneself, especially in the context of parenting. Urgency in self-improvement is emphasized, reminding parents that their development positively impacts their children. A self-improvement challenge inspired by Epictetus encourages listeners to seize the moment and commit to daily progress. It’s a call to action to prioritize self-betterment now rather than waiting for tomorrow.

Dec 26, 2022 • 4min
They're Not Trying To Give You A Hard Time
Feeling overwhelmed by the chaos of parenting? This discussion dives into the often-frustrating behavior of children and the importance of compassion in addressing these challenges. It highlights how understanding the root causes of their actions can lead to more effective support. Instead of reacting with frustration, parents are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences to help their kids navigate tough moments. Tune in for insightful tips on fostering patience and understanding in the face of daily parenting hurdles.

Dec 25, 2022 • 3min
This Is A Gift You Can Give Yourself (And Your Family)
During this festive season, the discussion highlights the importance of presence over presents. It emphasizes nurturing strong family bonds through love and connection. The idea is that by prioritizing relationships now, parents can inspire their children to return home in the future with their own families. This heartfelt approach shines a light on how emotional gifts enrich the family dynamic, ensuring a joyful and crowded table for years to come.

14 snips
Dec 24, 2022 • 15min
Daily Dad On How To Form Good Habits For The New Year
Discover effective strategies for fostering good habits in yourself and your children. Learn how journaling can enhance emotional awareness and self-care, vital for effective parenting. Explore the significance of nurturing a love for reading and history, inspired by figures like Harry Truman. Delve into the balance of authority and independence, using gardening metaphors to illustrate how to teach responsibility. Equip yourself with insights that will shape a positive parenting approach in the new year.