Welcome to the Daily Dad podcast, where we provide one lesson every single day to help you with your most important job, being a parent.

I'm Ryan Holiday, and I draw these lessons from ancient philosophy, modern psychology, practical wisdom, and insights from

parents just like you all over the world. Thank you for listening, and we hope this helps.

This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. It seems crazy that 2024 is basically half over. The kids are out of

school for the summer and, you know, it's busier than ever. I got the book launch coming up.

So things have been a bit crazy. And when you feel that and you feel that as a parent, it's like,

oh my God, how am I going to get through all this? That's usually when I try to make a therapy appointment, because therapy's a great way to pencil and some

time to reflect, try to examine your habits, try to make better decisions, be a better person,

and be a better parent. And if you're thinking about starting therapy, give better help a try.

It's entirely online and can be adjusted to fit your schedule. I don't know about you, but as a parent, I don't have time to drive across town, sit in a waiting room, do the hour, then drive home. I've got to do it as efficiently and as effectively as possible, and that's why BetterHelp is great. All you do is fill out a quick questionnaire to get matched with a licensed therapist, and you can switch therapists at any time for no additional charge.

Take a moment and visit betterhelp.com slash daily dad to get 10% off your first month. That's betterhelp.com slash daily doubt.

The most stoic person in Marcus's life.

Antoninus Pius, Marcus Aurelius's adopted father and predecessor, was not a stoic.

He didn't identify as one, nor did anyone call him a philosopher.

He left behind no writings.

There are no anecdotes of him dropping in on lectures in Greece or

studying under some guru. And yet of all the people in Marcus's life, Antoninus was the most stoic.

He was cool under pressure. He quietly went about his business. He was hardworking and self-sufficient

and never got worked up. He was a beloved

leader, and his mere presence put other people at ease. From Antoninus, Marcus learned, as he

details in book one of meditations, everything from how to get the best out of people to how to

keep a simple diet that minimizes bathroom interruptions to maximizing time spent serving others.

...