

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 27, 2023 • 4min
This Is More Important Than Winning
Discover how sports can shape children's character and boost their confidence. It's not just about winning; teamwork and physical activity are vital. Delve into Theodore Roosevelt's belief in the value of 'manly sports' and adventure. Learn why character development should take precedence over mere competition. From football to hiking, these activities provide essential life lessons.

Mar 25, 2023 • 14min
Daily Dad on Being Grateful For The Time We Have
Explore the highs and lows of parenting and the importance of cherishing family time. Reflect on a nostalgic outing during the pandemic that reminds us to slow down and appreciate fleeting moments. Discover heartfelt stories about celebrating milestones and creating lasting memories, such as a memorable camping trip. Embrace the balance of personal challenges and joyful experiences, focusing on gratitude for the time spent with loved ones.

Mar 24, 2023 • 3min
They Heard It From You
Have you ever been startled by your child's unexpected words? The episode dives into those shocking moments that catch you off guard, from quirky phrases to heartfelt truths. It also discusses the profound impact parents have on their children's values and behavior, emphasizing how kids absorb what they see and hear. These candid insights invite reflection on the meaningful—and often funny—experiences of parenting.

Mar 23, 2023 • 4min
You Have To Recognize This
Eva Amurri shares her unique perspective as the daughter of famous parents, revealing the complexities of growing up in the spotlight. She discusses the emotional struggles that come with a privileged upbringing and how important it is for children in such circumstances to have their feelings recognized. The conversation offers insights into the challenges of parenting in celebrity culture, emphasizing the need for validation and understanding in emotional development.

Mar 22, 2023 • 5min
Infuse This Into Your DNA
Discover the intriguing concept of introjection and how it affects personal growth. Learn how absorbing the greatness of admired thinkers can shape identities and influence parenting. The discussion introduces a new book filled with daily meditations aimed at fostering continuous learning in the realm of parenting. Tune in for insights that blend neuroscience with practical parenting advice!

Mar 21, 2023 • 3min
Always Keep Your Eye Out
Kids have an incredible way of opening our eyes to the world. When a child's interest sparks, like a fascination with helicopters or birds, it reignites our own curiosity. Parenting becomes an adventure of exploration where adults are inspired to notice the little things. Personal anecdotes highlight the joy in shared exploration and the magic of mutual discovery, emphasizing the importance of engaging with our children's interests to cultivate a deeper appreciation of life.

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.


