

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

Dec 26, 2025 • 4min
Why Are We Giving This All Away?
Discover why patience is a precious resource, especially in parenting. Learn how accommodating exhausting people can drain your limited patience. Explore the importance of reserving patience for your children and loved ones. Set boundaries for a fulfilling life this New Year with practical resolutions. Join the 21-day challenge to cultivate generosity, discipline, and better practices. Embrace the journey of personal growth and make 2026 the year you prioritize what truly matters!

6 snips
Dec 25, 2025 • 4min
Give Yourself (And Your Family) This Gift
Discover the shift from wanting presents to cherishing presence as a hallmark of true family connection. Explore Ryan Holiday's insights on defining success in parenting—where your children choose to be with you as they grow. He emphasizes the importance of creating a warm, inviting family atmosphere that encourages gatherings. The conversation inspires listeners to invest in meaningful relationships and build a community that thrives on togetherness.

Dec 24, 2025 • 3min
You Know What Your Job Is
Navigating the whirlwind of parenting can be overwhelming, but recognizing your core responsibilities is key. Be present, nurture curiosity, and exemplify strong adulthood. Insights from Bob Odenkirk highlight the importance of clarity in parenting. Focus on raising good humans and find your community for support. Prioritization is essential in this rewarding yet challenging journey.

6 snips
Dec 23, 2025 • 5min
Oh These Wonderful Sounds
Dive into the beautiful chaos of parenthood! Discover the contrast between exhausting sounds and the lovely moments that often go unnoticed. Ryan shares nostalgic examples that remind us to treasure giggles and off-key singing. He highlights the importance of quality family time, suggesting that even simple outdoor outings can create lasting memories. Plus, learn about the Tempus Fugit medallion, a symbol to cherish fleeting family moments. Tune in for reflections that capture the essence of parenting!

Dec 22, 2025 • 4min
It’s Not How It Looks
Exploring the realities of parenthood, the conversation challenges the curated images of family life often seen online. It emphasizes that a comfortable home trumps a perfectly decorated one. The host shares personal stories about the importance of creating spaces where kids can be themselves without fear of messing up. He reflects on a lesson learned from a cozy couch that fostered closeness. Ultimately, the discussion highlights that true success in parenting is making children feel safe and free.

20 snips
Dec 20, 2025 • 22min
Raise Kids Brave Enough to Ask Questions
Join Kenny Curtis, host and author of the Greeking Out podcast, as he shares insights on raising kids curious about mythology, including favorite myths and lessons learned from stories like Romulus and Remus. Historian Ron Chernow reveals the journey behind his biography of Alexander Hamilton and shares his experiences as a historical advisor for the hit musical. Expect lively discussions on the impact of myths on family and culture, along with fun anecdotes, making this a thought-provoking exploration of storytelling.

16 snips
Dec 19, 2025 • 5min
The Family That Does This Together Stays Together
Discover how family traditions create trust and communication. Shared challenges can strengthen bonds and enhance resilience among family members. Ryan shares inspiring stories, including Theodore Roosevelt's lessons on teamwork through hard walks. As the new year approaches, there's an exciting 21-day Stoic challenge inviting families to grow together. Learn how to join this transformative experience, and start making lasting memories this 2026!

5 snips
Dec 18, 2025 • 5min
It’s Not Too Late To Change Course
Navigating parenting often involves trial and error. Emphasizing that it's never too late to change course, the discussion focuses on the importance of owning mistakes. Parents often struggle to admit errors due to guilt, yet honesty fosters accountability in children. A poignant example involving Andy Kaufman's upbringing illustrates the long-term impact of misguided truths. Ultimately, embracing our flaws and apologizing can strengthen relationships and teach essential lessons.

10 snips
Dec 17, 2025 • 5min
How Are You Challenging Yourself?
Why should kids have all the fun with challenges? The conversation emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning for adults, encouraging parents to sign up for their own growth. Ryan Holiday offers practical ways to embrace new skills and improve health, while drawing on Epicurus to highlight that it's never too late. Plus, a unique New Year challenge invites families to engage together with daily stoic practices. It’s time to elevate yourself and demand the best!

4 snips
Dec 16, 2025 • 4min
They’ll Need Your Encouragement
Explore the challenges of learning new skills and how many give up too soon. Discover the fascinating concept of the Plateau of Latent Potential, where growth is often invisible before success hits. Understand why children need encouragement during their own plateaus and how fathers play a crucial role in recognizing their small achievements. Learn when it's appropriate for kids to quit and how to guide them through tough moments. This insightful discussion offers valuable parenting tools and a sense of community.


