

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

May 14, 2021 • 2min
Your Kids Have Not Been Harmed
This discussion tackles the unexpected challenges kids faced during the pandemic, like remote schooling and missed milestones. It emphasizes reframing these hardships as opportunities for growth and resilience. The conversation invites parents to adopt a positive perspective, showcasing how adversity can lead to valuable lessons for children. With a focus on the potential for development in tough times, it encourages embracing the journey rather than dwelling on losses.

May 13, 2021 • 3min
Make Sure They Always Have This
Explore the profound bond between fathers and sons through a poignant scene from Cormac McCarthy’s 'The Road.' The discussion emphasizes the importance of giving children your whole heart and the wisdom that comes with unconditional love. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on how parental guidance shapes resilience and character, especially in challenging times. This heartfelt exploration of fatherhood is both touching and thought-provoking.

May 12, 2021 • 3min
They Are Your Work
Bryan Caplan shares insights from his life as a busy economist and homeschooling father of four. He challenges the notion that parenting interrupts work, asserting that it is, in fact, the core of one's professional life. The discussion emphasizes the significance of prioritizing family well-being and happiness above traditional success metrics. Caplan's perspective offers a refreshing take on balancing work and family, highlighting that our children truly are our most important 'work'.

May 11, 2021 • 3min
They Must Be Surrounded By This
Explore the fascinating implications of Lewin’s Equation in parenting. Discover how a child's behavior is shaped by their environment and personal traits. Learn the importance of designing inspiring spaces that encourage a love for reading. Dive into strategies that help instill good habits and actions in young readers, proving that the right surroundings can make all the difference.

May 10, 2021 • 2min
It's Game Time
The discussion emphasizes the vital importance of being present in parenting. It highlights how children value everyday moments rather than elaborate plans. The host encourages fathers to actively engage and make these moments count, reminding listeners that now is the perfect time to embrace their role as parents. Small actions today can create lasting memories for their children.

May 8, 2021 • 33min
Daily Dad and Nils Parker on the Importance of Independent Decision Making
Nils Parker, Ryan Holiday’s writing partner, joins to discuss parenting amidst challenges like the pandemic. They highlight the need for independent decision-making in kids, steering away from helicopter parenting. The conversation dives into how societal pressures affect choices in education and parenting ethics. Nils urges parents to prioritize personal growth over conventional paths and emphasizes developing character traits like resilience and creativity, redefining what true success looks like for future generations.

May 7, 2021 • 3min
It's Not About You
Fatherhood is often seen as a path to personal fulfillment, but this discussion flips that notion on its head. It emphasizes that true joy comes not from our expectations, but from prioritizing our children's needs. The bond between parent and child is explored, revealing that genuine happiness is found in supporting their growth rather than seeking personal accolades. It's a refreshing perspective on the selfless journey of being a dad.

May 6, 2021 • 3min
Let Them Drum
Explore the enchanting world of dreams through the lens of a young girl who aspires to be a drummer. The discussion highlights the challenges she faces from societal norms and those around her. It emphasizes the vital importance of parental support and the need to encourage children to pursue their passions. Through the lens of a beautiful poem, listeners are reminded of the transformative power of believing in one's dreams.

May 5, 2021 • 2min
If you Want Them To Listen
Learn the secrets to gaining respect and attention from your children. Discover how cultivating awe instead of fear can transform your parenting approach. Effective communication and leading by example are key to building deeper connections with your kids. Embrace the art of inspiring admiration for a more rewarding family dynamic!

May 4, 2021 • 3min
They Shrug It Off. So Can You
Explore the idea that kids have an innate resilience, often brushing off falls and frustrations. Parental reactions, however, can amplify their fears. Learn how releasing our unnecessary anxieties can promote healthier family dynamics. Discover the power of allowing children to experience their emotions without the weight of adult baggage.


