

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

11 snips
Nov 12, 2025 • 5min
You Are Not a Bad Parent
Parents often struggle with overwhelming self-criticism. Discover why it’s common to feel like you're not measuring up. Embrace the notion that occasional mistakes don’t define your parenting. Ryan Holiday shares a Stoic perspective to help reshape how we view ourselves. Plus, learn about a supportive community where parents can connect and share resources. It's a journey towards understanding and encouragement!

Nov 11, 2025 • 4min
Reflect On Yourself First
The discussion begins with a thought-provoking look at why kids often appear selfish, uncovering common challenging behaviors. It emphasizes the importance of parents reflecting on their own flaws instead of immediately blaming their children. The host urges listeners to adopt empathy and self-reflection to improve parenting. Innovative resources and community support are also highlighted as vital tools for personal growth in parenting. A must-listen for parents seeking to enhance their approach!

14 snips
Nov 10, 2025 • 4min
This Skews Our Perspective
Explore the anxieties that modern parents face in an increasingly uncertain world. Discover how childhood memories can inspire hands-on learning with your kids. Unpack how risk perception can distort reality, fueling unnecessary fears. Learn the critical balance between vigilance and overprotection. Hear advice on safety practices that allow for peace of mind and reassurance for diligent parents. Embrace the idea that following guidelines can transform worries into confident parenting.

16 snips
Nov 8, 2025 • 13min
Our Kids Are Outsmarting Us | Ryan and Sam Holiday
Parents share amusing tales of kids calling out their little white lies, showcasing unexpected social smarts. Quick spellers and cultural quizmasters, children often leave parents struggling to keep up. The challenge of parenting neurodivergent kids is tackled with practical book recommendations. There's a mix of pride and ego when kids outsmart their parents, revealing both their growth and parents' vulnerabilities. The stress of unequal sleep duties is also a hot topic, as nightly parenting duties weigh heavily on one partner.

7 snips
Nov 7, 2025 • 5min
You Have to Be More Careful Now
Becoming a parent transforms the game, demanding more intentionality in every aspect of life. Journaling plays a crucial role, offering a way to capture thoughts and build a legacy. The focus on health, habits, and energy management becomes essential as responsibilities increase. Listeners are encouraged to adopt structured parenting tools and join a supportive community. This insightful discussion inspires reflection on how to navigate the challenges of parenthood with greater care.

4 snips
Nov 6, 2025 • 3min
It Would Be Weird If This Didn’t Happen
Parenthood inevitably shifts your focus and productivity. It's a normal evolution that even experienced creators experience. Cameron Crowe shares how fatherhood transformed his writing process and priorities. Embrace the changes as gifts that bring structure and community to your life. Dive into the journey of redefining success through the lens of parenting!

20 snips
Nov 5, 2025 • 4min
It’s About Learning How to Live
Philosophy isn't just for scholars; it's essential for parents navigating life’s challenges. Stoicism, in particular, provides practical tools for courage, discipline, and purpose in parenting. Join the upcoming Stoicism 101 course to explore these concepts together as a family. Embrace the gift of parenting with a strong support community and structured learning. Discover how ancient wisdom can enhance modern parenting!

6 snips
Nov 4, 2025 • 4min
The Problem is Trying to Do Two Things at Once
Multitasking often leads to parental frustration, but focusing on one thing can enhance your experience. A simple pause can change your perspective, offering clarity before reacting. The Pause & Reflect medallion serves as a tangible reminder to take a moment for yourself. Embracing presence can foster deeper connections with your children. Join a community aimed at enhancing parenting skills and discover the power of mindful engagement.

Nov 3, 2025 • 4min
There Is No Right Way
Discover the refreshing notion that there's no single right way to parent. Learn how each child is unique and requires tailored strategies. Dive into the importance of flexibility and continuous learning as a parent. Adapt your methods to suit different personalities and stages of development. This engaging discussion provides valuable insights for navigating the joys and challenges of parenting.

Nov 1, 2025 • 20min
Let the Past IGNITE Their Future | Doris Kearns Goodwin
Doris Kearns Goodwin, a Pulitzer Prize-winning presidential historian and bestselling author, shares insights on teaching history to kids. She emphasizes the role of travel and museums in sparking curiosity. Doris discusses how biographies can make historical figures relatable, helping to counter the diminishing emphasis on history education. The conversation also touches on the inspiring power of theater, like Hamilton, in bringing history to life. They reflect on their own journeys into history and the importance of mentorship in shaping future generations.


