
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

Sep 30, 2022 • 4min
Don’t Forget to Schedule Time for This
Discover the power of fun in parenting as the conversation emphasizes incorporating play into daily routines. Inspired by Douglas MacArthur's quirky morning rituals, it highlights how 'crazy' fun time can deepen bonds between fathers and their children. Plus, Ryan Holiday discusses his new book, 'Discipline Is Destiny,' and exciting pre-order bonuses for listeners. This lively discussion encourages dads to prioritize joyful moments amidst their busy lives.

Sep 29, 2022 • 3min
Try To Think About How You’d Feel
Explore the deep emotional ties between parents and their children, especially during tough times. The discussion emphasizes the power of empathy and kindness in fostering strong family bonds. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own behaviors and interactions, making daily efforts to nurture understanding. Additionally, there's buzz about Ryan Holiday's new book, highlighting the connection between discipline and personal growth, while offering exciting pre-order incentives for fans.

Sep 28, 2022 • 5min
You Have To Help Them Here
Explore the art of gentle intervention when loved ones face emotional turmoil, inspired by Queen Elizabeth's calming presence. Discover how distraction can be a powerful parenting tool, helping children navigate stress while regaining control. Delve into wisdom from a new book on self-discipline, connecting historical examples with the importance of composure for personal growth. These insights offer valuable strategies for fostering resilience in ourselves and our loved ones.

Sep 27, 2022 • 2min
Let Them Decide
Exploring the value of allowing children to make their own choices, the discussion highlights how this empowers them to pursue their interests. A charming example features a young Will Ferrell, who favored square dancing over academics. The conversation encourages parents to nurture their children's natural inclinations instead of imposing their own paths. Additionally, Ryan Holiday's new book, 'Discipline Is Destiny,' is mentioned, offering insight into parenting strategies infused with discipline.

Sep 26, 2022 • 4min
Find Where They Know More Than You
Explore the power of connection through shared knowledge. Discover how engaging with children's interests fosters their confidence. By encouraging curiosity and open dialogue, parents can cultivate an environment where kids thrive. This nurturing approach allows for deeper connections and promotes individual passions.

Sep 24, 2022 • 20min
Daily Dad on the Importance of Personal Awareness
In this conversation, Nils Parker, a friend and writing partner of Ryan Holiday, dives into the essential role of personal awareness in parenting. They discuss how mindfulness can improve family dynamics and the importance of self-reflection. Nils emphasizes the impact of emotional transparency on children’s well-being and offers insights into nurturing emotional awareness. The duo also explores the challenges of fostering independent thinking in kids, aiming to enhance their understanding of personal issues and promote healthier family relationships.

Sep 23, 2022 • 4min
Do Your Kids Have This?
Discover the incredible impact of parental influence on children's character formation. Learn how embodying virtues like hard work and resilience can inspire future generations. Historical insights from Marcus Aurelius highlight the timeless importance of self-discipline in parenting. Uncover practical wisdom for navigating modern challenges while leading by example.

Sep 22, 2022 • 3min
Who do You Wish Your Parents Were?
Explore how our perceptions of parental legacies shape our own parenting styles. Uncover the power of consciously selecting traits from both real and fictional role models to foster a nurturing environment. Discover the importance of stepping beyond past experiences to create a positive, intentional approach to raising the next generation.

Sep 21, 2022 • 3min
Have You Really Understood This?
Discover ways to effectively support children facing tough times, from the challenges of recent events to the importance of fostering resilience. The discussion emphasizes patience and the need to break generational cycles of emotional neglect. Listen to insightful strategies for enhancing emotional support and understanding in parenting.

Sep 20, 2022 • 4min
Your Kids Are Not Keeping Score
Delve into the crucial emotional presence that children seek from their parents. Discover how nurturing your own relationship with yourself can transform your parenting approach. The discussion highlights personal anecdotes, revealing that kids crave emotional support far more than career achievements or material possessions. Explore how prioritizing emotional availability fosters deeper connections and enhances the parent-child bond.