
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

Jul 8, 2022 • 4min
How to Convince Them
Discover the subtle art of gentle persuasion in parenting. Dive into the historical tale of Mary Churchill's marriage proposal and her parents' role in her decision-making. The conversation emphasizes the delicate balance between offering guidance and allowing autonomy. Learn how understanding and support can lead to better choices, fostering a nurturing environment for children. It's a thought-provoking exploration of love, wisdom, and the intricate dynamics of parent-child relationships.

Jul 7, 2022 • 3min
How To Encourage Crazy Dreams
Discover the intricate balance between nurturing your child's wild dreams and grounding them in reality. Through a captivating story of a famous comedian, the challenges parents face in encouraging ambition are explored. It's a thought-provoking journey that highlights the importance of support alongside the understanding of potential setbacks. This conversation sheds light on how to inspire without stifling, encouraging young dreamers to reach for the stars while addressing life's inevitable hurdles.

Jul 6, 2022 • 4min
Don’t Let It Hit the Bullseye
Discover how to build resilience in children against bullying while prioritizing their self-worth. The discussion weaves together historical insights and inspiring personal stories, illustrating the crucial role parents play in helping their kids navigate negativity. Tune in for practical advice on empowering the next generation to face challenges with strength and confidence.

Jul 5, 2022 • 2min
Don’t Take This From Them
Explore the power of allowing children to carve their own unique paths in life. Learn how historical figures like Gandhi serve as inspiration for this philosophy. The discussion emphasizes the careful balance between providing support and the risks of imposing parental expectations. Empowerment and freedom can lead to remarkable growth in young lives.

Jul 4, 2022 • 4min
Make Today Mean Something
Personal growth is vital for effective parenting. The discussions highlight the importance of self-reflection and how it influences parenting skills. Historical examples showcase values that contribute to becoming a better parent. Listeners are encouraged to consider therapy as a helpful tool for self-improvement. The episode emphasizes that making today meaningful starts with nurturing oneself.

Jul 2, 2022 • 20min
Daily Dad and Kathryn Schulz on Learning from Loss and Grief
Kathryn Schulz, a Pulitzer Prize-winning staff writer for The New Yorker and author of 'Lost & Found,' discusses the vital lessons of loss and grief in parenting. She reflects on the insights gained during the pandemic, balancing isolation with newfound appreciation. Schulz shares how personal experiences shape parenting and the beauty discovered in everyday moments amidst life's struggles. The conversation delves into the transformative power of adversity, emphasizing the importance of nurturing a healthy self-relationship for effective parenting.

Jul 1, 2022 • 4min
Sweet Kids in a Cruel World
Parenting in today's world comes with its unique set of challenges, from societal violence to environmental concerns. The discussion emphasizes the fears many parents grapple with, yet it champions a hopeful approach to raising compassionate and aware children. In the face of adversity, nurturing kindness and engagement becomes crucial. This conversation inspires listeners to engage actively in their children's development amidst a complex and often harsh landscape.

Jun 30, 2022 • 5min
To Understand It, Get The Children’s Book
Explore the intersection of ancient philosophy and modern parenting for effective guidance. Discover how Stoic principles can enrich both personal well-being and parenting techniques. Learn the art of simplifying complex subjects through children's literature, inspired by a skilled production designer. The discussion introduces a new illustrated book on Epictetus, designed to help kids grasp profound ideas, making wisdom accessible to the youngest minds.

Jun 29, 2022 • 4min
Being a Fan Isn’t Easy
Being a true fan of your children comes with unique challenges. The discussion emphasizes the importance of deep support that transcends mere encouragement. Drawing connections to figures like Jane Austen, it highlights how believing in your children nurtures their confidence. Explore the transformative power of active support and the role it plays in shaping their potential.

Jun 28, 2022 • 4min
They Must Have This Strength
Discover the surprising strength found in asking for help as a parent. Learn how modeling vulnerability can teach children the value of seeking assistance. Explore practical strategies to overcome the fear of asking for support. This conversation highlights the importance of community and connection in parenting.