
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

Jun 2, 2022 • 4min
It’s Hard For All of Us
Dive into the universal challenges of parenthood as historical figure Gandhi’s struggles with his teenage kids come to light. Discover how humility and resilience can shape personal growth in parenting. The discussion unpacks real-life lessons, making the listener reflect on their own experiences with adolescence. It’s a heartfelt reminder that everyone faces difficulties, fostering a sense of connection among parents navigating similar paths.

Jun 1, 2022 • 5min
Do You Know What You Look Like Angry?
The hosts dive into the philosophical impact of anger on parenting. They emphasize the need for self-awareness and how our reactions can shape relationships with our children. The discussion offers valuable insights into anger management, helping parents reflect on their emotional responses. Tips on fostering healthier communication are also shared, making for a thought-provoking exploration of how to navigate frustrations in family life.

May 31, 2022 • 4min
You Can’t Change Your Parents
Dive into the realization that you can't change your parents, but you can change your approach to parenting. Embrace acceptance and focus on personal growth to foster healthier relationships with your kids. Learn how breaking the cycle can lead to positive transformations in family dynamics.

May 30, 2022 • 4min
What Is More Important?
Discover the importance of being fully present in your child's life. The discussion highlights how distractions can pull parents away from meaningful moments. A profound medallion symbolizes the irreplaceable nature of childhood. Prioritizing quality time with kids is emphasized as essential for nurturing strong bonds.

May 28, 2022 • 23min
Daily Dad on Getting Help and Optimizing Time With Your Kids
Nils Parker, a writing partner of Ryan Holiday and father of young children, shares valuable insights on spending quality time with kids. He emphasizes the importance of leveraging professional help for home maintenance to prioritize family moments over DIY headaches. The duo discusses how mundane errands can impact parent-child relationships, urging parents to make these tasks enjoyable. They also reflect on the urgency of creating meaningful experiences, encouraging a deeper connection before the kids grow up.

May 27, 2022 • 3min
This is Anti-Enlightenment
Dive into the intriguing balance between parenting and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. Explore how Buddha faced his own challenges in juggling family life while striving for deeper understanding. Discover the idea that true happiness lies not in escaping responsibilities but in embracing them. This conversation leads to profound reflections on fulfillment and the complexities of being both a parent and a seeker.

May 26, 2022 • 4min
There Is Nothing Better Than This
Discover the unmatched joy of parenting and how family connections illuminate our lives. The host emphasizes the importance of cherishing special moments with children, reminding listeners that these experiences are truly invaluable. Plus, there's a nostalgic twist with a healthier take on cereal, perfect for indulging in childhood favorites without the guilt. This blend of heartfelt reflection and light-hearted fun captures the essence of what makes family life so rewarding.

May 25, 2022 • 4min
Teach Them About This Tension
Dive into the complexities of parenting and life as the discussion unveils the dualities captured in Kipling's poem 'If'. Explore the balance between contrasting traits essential for children's development. Discover how the journey of self-improvement plays a pivotal role in becoming an effective parent. Unravel the tension that comes with these contradictions while fostering growth in both children and oneself.

May 24, 2022 • 3min
Assume The Best
This discussion emphasizes the power of compassion in parenting. It encourages parents to assume the best intentions in their children, fostering a more understanding atmosphere when mistakes are made. The conversation extends to relationships with spouses, promoting kindness over criticism. With a focus on empathy, listeners are inspired to create a nurturing environment that strengthens bonds within the family.

May 23, 2022 • 4min
It's A Fun Excuse
Explore the importance of play in parenting, as a touching story about Winston Churchill and a toy train illustrates the role of joyful moments in fostering deep connections. Discover how embracing play not only brings happiness to children but also strengthens bonds between parents and their little ones.