

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

Nov 19, 2022 • 12min
How to Adjust to Growing Pains
The discussion highlights the bittersweet transition from stroller to walking as kids grow, showcasing how it nurtures deeper family connections. Personal growth in parenting is emphasized, linking well-being to effective parenting. Innovative ways to encourage exercise among kids are shared, along with the importance of creating new family traditions. The joy of walking together is celebrated, as it fosters meaningful memories, making room for new adventures without the stroller!

Nov 18, 2022 • 3min
You Can't Form A Picture
The discussion emphasizes the importance of embracing uncertainty in fatherhood. It draws parallels to Napoleon's strategic insights, highlighting that flexibility and adaptability are crucial for parenting success. Preconceived notions about child-rearing can lead to surprises that challenge expectations. Each child is unique, and understanding this diversity fosters a more rewarding parenting experience.

Nov 17, 2022 • 6min
Your Little Guy and Gals
Uncover the universal experience of parenting and its timeless relevance across cultures. Delve into the emotional bonds formed through the rituals of nourishment, emphasizing the importance of healthy vitamins for kids. A heartfelt historical letter adds depth, illustrating a father's love and sacrifice for his children. Explore how parenting connects us beyond politics and historical events, making it a shared human journey.

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.


