

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

Feb 3, 2023 • 2min
This Is All That Matters
Discover the importance of shedding life's distractions to focus on what truly matters. The discussion highlights the art of prioritizing core responsibilities in parenting. By selecting two main areas to invest time and energy, you can cultivate a more engaged family dynamic. Embrace the idea that the chaos of daily tasks shouldn't overshadow the things you care about most.

Feb 2, 2023 • 3min
They Already Doubt Themselves Enough
Discover how parental support can be the cornerstone of a child's confidence. The discussion emphasizes the importance of encouraging independence while balancing caution. It explores the delicate art of offering guidance without imposing doubt. Tapping into a child's potential often requires letting them navigate their own paths. Find out how a loving approach can help them pursue their dreams and face challenges head-on.

Feb 1, 2023 • 4min
Be More Than A Hero
Explore the tension between heroism and fatherhood as the struggles of iconic figures like John Boyd and Victor Krulak are detailed. The discussion dives into how their remarkable achievements came at a price, impacting their families and creating emotional rifts. Delve into the lessons of balancing greatness with being a supportive parent, and learn how to aspire for more than mere heroism while fostering deep family connections.

Jan 31, 2023 • 3min
You're Stretched To A New Capactity
Becoming a parent stretches your limits in ways you never imagined. Juggling responsibilities, surviving on little sleep, and facing new stressors can feel overwhelming. Yet, these challenges come with profound rewards—your heart grows bigger with love and empathy. The bond formed with your children deepens not only your connection to them, but also to the world around you, highlighting the beautiful transformation that parenthood brings.

Jan 30, 2023 • 3min
How Have We Gotten So Far From This?
Explore the timeless lessons of fatherhood through the lens of the 300 Spartans. Discover the importance of parental responsibility and how actions shape children's lives. Learn why kids’ perceptions should be our guiding standards. Embrace the challenge to live up to the values that inspire admiration and love in the next generation.

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.


