
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

Nov 16, 2022 • 4min
Wait and See
Parents often feel certain they know what's best for their kids, but do they really? The discussion dives into the unpredictable nature of parenting, emphasizing the art of patience. Using a Zen parable, it encourages letting situations unfold before jumping to conclusions. This thoughtful approach reminds listeners to embrace uncertainty and acknowledge their limitations in understanding their children's needs.

Nov 15, 2022 • 3min
Always Look For This
Discover effective time management strategies that help parents reclaim precious moments. Learn how to maximize quality time with family through clever daily hacks, like an economist mother's grocery shopping techniques. Explore the importance of finding opportunities to save time, so you can spend more of it with loved ones. Embrace the wisdom of Seneca as you realize that while life may be short, it's the intentional use of time that truly matters.

Nov 14, 2022 • 5min
You’ll Want To Know You Were Here
Parenting can feel like a relentless grind, full of exhaustion and challenges. Yet, amidst the chaos of sleepless nights and teenage curfews, there’s beauty in cherishing fleeting moments. This discussion emphasizes the importance of being present and savoring those seemingly mundane experiences. It encourages finding fulfillment in the journey, and reminds us that one day, we will look back with nostalgia, even at the toughest times.

Nov 12, 2022 • 19min
Surprising Lessons From A Trip To Disneyland
Join a heartfelt recount of a family trip to Disneyland, blending nostalgia with the joys of parenting. The speaker shares how their kids experienced the magic in ways they never could as children. Discover lessons in gratitude amidst the chaos of travel, and the importance of cherishing small joys. Reflect on how life's adventures can teach valuable lessons about privilege and meaningful memories. It's a delightful reminder to appreciate the moments that truly matter.

Nov 11, 2022 • 3min
Are You Helping Them Build Their Reading Muscles
The discussion highlights a concerning decline in reading expectations for children. It emphasizes the need to rethink children's literature and advocates for introducing more complex texts. Simplistic reading material can hinder cognitive growth and critical thinking skills. The hosts explore how challenging literature can nurture a child's imagination and intellectual development, urging parents to rethink what their children read.

Nov 10, 2022 • 4min
Teach Them The Ideals Of A Rare Spirit
Discover how Marcus Aurelius' timeless wisdom can elevate your parenting approach. The discussion dives into instilling essential values in children, emphasizing the importance of leading by example. You'll learn how these philosophical teachings are not just for leaders, but also vital for nurturing a generation with a rare spirit. Plus, insights from various influential figures who advocate for the relevance of these ideas in shaping resilient, grounded individuals are explored.

Nov 9, 2022 • 4min
You're Lucky They're Born Now
Parenting today feels daunting with a pandemic and civil unrest shaping our world. Instead of succumbing to fear, the discussion pivots to gratitude and determination as guiding principles. It draws inspiration from historical figures, emphasizing the importance of active participation in societal movements. Parents are encouraged to reflect on their challenges with a sense of purpose, fostering resilience and hope for future generations.

Nov 8, 2022 • 3min
Are You Doing This For Them?
On Election Day, the discussion centers around the importance of parental participation in politics. It emphasizes how voting is not just a civic duty but a way to secure a better future for children. The conversation critiques apathy among parents and shares a personal story illustrating the real-world impact of local elections. It challenges listeners to consider their role in shaping the world for their kids, making it clear that engagement is a minimal yet vital step for change.

Nov 7, 2022 • 5min
It’s Easy Until It Happens To You
Explore the joy of family learning with KiwiCo kits, sparking creativity and collaboration among all ages. Discover the humbling journey of parenthood as it sheds light on the judgments we make about each other's choices. The conversation emphasizes empathy and understanding, reminding us that every parent’s experience is unique. It's a thought-provoking discussion on parenting that encourages reflection and connection.

Nov 5, 2022 • 14min
Daily Dad on How Life Can Pull You Away From What Truly Matters
Chaos can easily pull us away from what truly matters. A recent travel week highlights the challenge of balancing professional obligations with family connections. Engaging in fun, creative activities can strengthen bonds and create joyful moments. The push for prioritizing family over work commitments is emphasized, reminding us of the emotional costs of a busy life. Ultimately, it advocates for a healthier balance between our work and personal relationships.