The Council of Dudes

In this episode of the Council of Dudes, Vinny Brusco sits down with Heather Parady—speaker, creative entrepreneur, and host of the Unconventional Leaders Podcast. Heather has built a reputation for helping people break free from the scripts they've been handed and step into the story they're meant to live. Through her podcast and work, she explores what it means to think differently, create authentically, and challenge the conventional path. In true Council of Dudes fashion, this conversation goes a little deeper than the typical surface-level talk. Vinny and Heather unpack identity, the stories we tell ourselves, the pressure to fit into certain roles, and what it really takes to build something meaningful in today's world. It's a conversation about storytelling, leadership, and having the courage to question the narrative you've been given and rewrite it. Connect with Heather Here: IG: @heatherparady @unconventionalleaderspod  Youtube: Unconventional Leaders 

🎙️ The Council of Dudes Podcast | Featuring Ari Kwitkin-Close This week on The Council of Dudes, we sit down with Ari Kwitkin-Close, Chief Revenue Officer of Westchester Soccer Club  a builder, a connector, and a leader who understands the power of relationships on and off the field. Ari shares stories from his time working in the NFL and how the lessons from that world discipline, performance under pressure, and team culture continue to shape the way he leads today. But what stands out most isn't just the business acumen… it's the foundation. We dive into how simple acts of kindness in childhood can create lifelong impact how being seen, encouraged, and believed in early on shapes confidence, risk-taking, and leadership later in life. Ari opens up about how those moments influenced his path as an entrepreneur and revenue leader. From navigating high-level sports organizations to helping scale one of the fastest-growing professional soccer teams in the region, Ari breaks down what it actually takes to build something meaningful  and why community is the ultimate growth strategy. We also talk about the exciting momentum around Westchester Soccer Club and their Home Opener on March 7th a huge moment not just for the club, but for the entire Westchester community. This episode isn't about sports. It's about business. It's about impact. And it's about how kindness, vision, and courage can ripple far beyond what we see. Connect with Ari: Ari Kwitkin-Close - Linkedin @ari__kc https://www.instagram.com/ari__kc?igsh=MXN4bDdqNWkxcHVpeQ== @westchestersc https://www.westchestersc.com/  

In this episode of Council of Dudes we sit down with Father Petrillo from Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Pelham, NY. Father Petrillo shares thoughtful reflections on faith, presence, and the power of words to heal. We talk about why his homilies resonate so deeply with people not just spiritually, but emotionally and how they often feel as impactful and therapeutic as they are instructive. This conversation explores the role of reflection, stillness, and community in navigating everyday life, offering insight that extends well beyond the walls of the church. It's an honest, grounded discussion about finding meaning, processing life's challenges, and the quiet ways faith can support personal growth and well-being. A meaningful listen for anyone seeking perspective, clarity, and a moment to slow down. Define Your Circle.

The Council of Dudes Podcast is a space for honest conversations about what it means to be a man today—faith, fatherhood, leadership, mental health, discipline, and personal growth. In this episode, Vinny Brusco sits down with Fran Jez — creator, content producer, podcast host of Talk About It With Franjez, and founder of his own YouTube channel where he drops weekly episodes exploring mindset, community, real-talk interviews, food reviews, and life lessons from Westchester and beyond.  Fran's journey from food creator and community builder to long-form interviewer has given him a grounded perspective on what it takes to grow, stay authentic, and build connection in a hyper-noisy world.  Together, Vinny and Fran dive into:     •    What Fran's learned hosting Talk About It With Franjez     •    Why real conversation matters for men's mental health     •    Brotherhood, accountability, and intentional living     •    Faith, discipline, and self-awareness     •    Building community — on and off the mic Whether you're a fan of Fran's YouTube content or looking for substance over surface, this discussion cuts deep into what it takes to show up consistently — for yourself and the people who count on you. Define Your Circle. 🎧 Listen on Spotify 📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube 📩 vincent@agorasocialclub.com

In this episode of The Council of Dudes Podcast, Vinny Brusco sits down with Justin Carotti, LCSW, LADC, founder of Valiance Counseling for a grounded and honest conversation about discipline, fatherhood, and the internal work required to become a stronger, more grounded man. Justin brings a rare blend of clinical expertise and real-world experience. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor, his work centers on helping men navigate anxiety, addiction, identity, purpose, and emotional responsibility—areas many struggle with quietly. In this conversation, he shares insights from both the therapy room and his own life as a father and entrepreneur. Together, they explore:      •    Why discipline—not motivation—is the foundation of lasting change      •    How fatherhood exposes blind spots and demands personal growth      •    The importance of mental health support and emotional literacy for men     •    Addiction, avoidance, and the stories men tell themselves      •    How accountability, integrity, and consistency shape a man's legacy This episode is for men who know there's more required of them—and are willing to do the internal work to rise to that standard. 🎧 Listen in and reflect on the question every man must eventually face: Who am I becoming when no one's watching? — The Council of Dudes Define Your Circle

The Council of Dudes Podcast — Featuring Rafael Torres of Recap Wellness In this episode, I sit down with Rafael Torres, founder of Recap Wellness, whose groundbreaking work is helping people understand the real connection between neurons, anxiety, trauma, and physical pain. Rafael breaks down how the body stores emotional experiences, why unresolved trauma shows up as chronic tension, stress, or injury, and how reconnecting with your nervous system can completely transform your life. We dive into:     •    How neurons fire and wire around emotional experiences     •    The link between unresolved trauma and ongoing physical pain     •    Why anxiety lives in the body long before it shows up in the mind     •    Practical ways to release stored patterns and reset the nervous system     •    Rafael's unique method of helping clients heal from the inside out This one goes deep — perfect for anyone on the path of healing, growth, and becoming a stronger, more grounded man. Connect with Rafael / Recap Wellness: @recap_wellness Follow Agora Social Club & The Council of Dudes: @agora_westchester @vinnybrusco If this episode resonates, hit that Like, Subscribe, and Share button. And as always — Define Your Circle.

In this episode, Vinny sits down with MYQ Success — content creator, entrepreneur, and author — to talk about the art of content creation, working with brands, and becoming your own brand. MYQ shares his journey of building influence, finding purpose through creativity, and how consistency, authenticity, and storytelling can transform your online presence into a real-world movement. They also discuss how personal growth, discipline, and defining your circle are key to both success and fulfillment. 📘 Check Out MYQ's Book: "The Content to Cash Bible" – Available on Amazon & major platforms 📲 Follow MYQ Success: Instagram: @myqsuccess (https://instagram.com/myqsuccess)  TikTok: @myqsuccess (https://tiktok.com/@myqsuccess)  YouTube: MYQ Success (https://youtube.com/@myqsuccess)  🏛️ Follow Agora Social Club: Instagram: @agora_westchester (https://instagram.com/agora_westchester)  Website: https://www.agorasocialclub.com  🎙️ Follow Vinny Brusco: Instagram: @vinnybrusco (https://instagram.com/vinnybrusco)  Podcast: The Council of Dudes (https://www.youtube.com/@thecouncilofdudes)  -Define Your Circle-

In this episode, Pastor Andy Hayball of Trinity Church in Larchmont joins The Council of Dudes for a powerful and grounded conversation on faith, masculinity, and the modern man's search for purpose. We dive deep into what it means to live with intention, lead with conviction, and stay rooted in community through the lens of faith. Andy shares his journey as a pastor, husband, and leader — bringing real-world insight into how men can navigate doubt, discipline, and divine direction. If you've ever questioned your path or struggled to balance strength and surrender, this episode will hit home.  🙏 Tune in, reflect, and redefine what it means to walk in faith as a man today. 🎧 Available on YouTube + All Streaming Platforms Follow and connect: • Andy Hayball:  @andy_hayball • Agora Social Club (a men's mental health & brotherhood community):  @agora_westchester @agorasocialclub_ny • Vinny Brusco (host of The Council of Dude):@vinnybrusco

On this episode of The Council of Dude, we sit down with Legend Igor GracieBrazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, MMA veteran, proud member of the legendary Gracie family, and a dedicated family man. Beyond the medals, fights, and championships, Igor embodies the values of discipline, humility, and balance both on the mats and at home. As the head instructor and owner of Igor Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academies in New Rochelle, Eastchester and Harrison, Igor has built thriving schools where students learn not just techniques, but respect, resilience, and brotherhood. In this conversation, we dive into Igor's journey through competition, teaching, fatherhood, and what it truly means to carry a family legacy while raising a family of his own. Follow and connect:     •    Igor Gracie: @igorgracie @igorgracie     •    Igor Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy:  @igorgracieacademy     •    Agora Social Club (a men's mental health & brotherhood community): @agora_westchester @agorasocialclub_ny    •    Vinny Brusco (host of The Council of Dude):  @vinnybrusco  

In this episode of Council of Dudes, we sit down with Jesse Morgan, founder of Malochhio Lifestyle, a clothing brand rooted in grit and authenticity. Jesse opens up about his path from the struggles of addiction and the hard work of rehab to finding a renewed sense of purpose through creativity and entrepreneurship. We dive into how those challenges shaped his mindset, fueled the vision behind Malochhio, and continue to inspire his commitment to community and growth. This is more than just a conversation about fashion it's about resilience, redemption, and building a lifestyle that reflects strength through struggle.  👉 Connect with Jesse Morgan: • Instagram: [@_jesse_morgan] • Instagram: [@malocchio_lifestyle] 👉 Connect with Vinny Brusco: • Instagram: [@vinnybrusco] 👉 Follow Agora Social Club – a community for men's mental health & connection: • Instagram: [@agora_westchester] 💬 Drop your thoughts in the comment

Council of Dudes Podcast On this episode of the Council of Dudes, Vinny Brusco sits down with Brett Eaton – coach, speaker, and author of the powerful new book Uncomfortable Either Way. Brett dives deep into mindset, growth, and why embracing discomfort is the key to building the life you're meant to live. 📖 Grab Brett's new book Uncomfortable Either Way: [Insert link here] 👉 Connect with Brett Eaton:     •    Instagram: [@bretteaton_]     •    TikTok: [@bretteaton_]   👉 Connect with Vinny Brusco:     •    Instagram: [@vinnybrusco] 👉 Follow Agora Social Club – a community for men's mental health & connection:     •    Instagram: [@agora_westchester]     💬 Drop your thoughts in the comment

In this episode of The Council of Dudes, we sit down with none other than Dan "Big D" Sachkowsky for an unfiltered and insightful conversation about life, culture, business and religion. 🎙️ Hosted by Vinny Brusco — bringing his signature mix of humor, curiosity, and honesty. 👉 Follow the Dudes: •    Dan "Big D" Sachkowsky: https://www.instagram.com/_big_dan_official?igsh=Z2ZoNXd6NDNsbHQy •    Vinny Brusco: https://www.instagram.com/vinnybrusco?igsh=NGUzaHFhczV6am5p&utm_source=qr 👉 Check out Agora Social Club — a space for men to connect, grow, and build brotherhood:      •    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/agora_westchester?igsh=Z2xma3FwODd0dTFk&utm_source=qr

Council of Dudes Podcast | Episode ft. Eben Britton In this powerful episode of The Council of Dudes Podcast, Vinny Brusco sits down with the one and only Eben Britton former NFL offensive lineman turned spiritual seeker, podcast host, writer, and advocate for holistic living. Eben opens up about his NFL journey, the transition from the gridiron to deeper self-exploration, and the lessons he's learned along the way. Eben dives into his mission to help others awaken and heal through his own podcast, The Eben Flow, as well as his writing and teachings on consciousness, masculinity, and plant medicine. Eben also shares what it means to "Power by Love" — his personal mantra and movement (#PowerByLove). 👉 Follow Eben Britton: Instagram: @edsbritton  Podcast: The Eben Flow — available on all major platforms Website: https://www.ebenbritton.com 🎙️ This episode is sponsored by the Agora Social Club — a private social club focused on men's mental health, brotherhood, and personal evolution. Agora 2.0 is coming featuring a gym, cold plunge, sauna, sensory deprivation tank, and more, Agora is where men come to connect, decompress, and grow. Invest in the future of Men's Mental Fitness: Www.WeFunder.com/AgoraSocialClub 📲 Connect with Us: Vinny Brusco on Instagram: @vinnybrusco Agora Social Club on Instagram: @agora_westchester

In this episode of the Council of Dudes, we sit down with Joe Kay, the founder of Ice & Iron, to talk about the movement bringing men back into their power through cold exposure, breathwork, intentional conversation, and community. We explore:     •    The origin and mission of Ice & Iron     •    The importance of accountability, masculine connection, and shared discomfort     •    Why so many men are feeling lost and how to break the cycle     •    Creating spaces where men can thrive (like Ice & Iron and Agora Social Club) This one is for any man seeking purpose, brotherhood, and transformation. 👇 Like, comment, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. Don't forget to subscribe for more raw conversations from the Council of Dudes. ⸻ Follow Joe Kay & Ice & Iron: 🔗 Instagram: @ice.x.iron (https://www.instagram.com/iceandiron) Follow Agora Social Club: 🏛️ Instagram: @agora_Westchester (https://www.instagram.com/agorasocialclub) 🌐 Website: https://www.agorasocialclub.com #CouncilOfDudes #IceAndIron #AgoraSocialClub #MensWork #Brotherhood #ColdPlunge #JoeKay #Masculinity #MensMentalHealth #Purpose #ModernMan #SelfDevelopment

This week on the Council of Dudes Podcast, we're joined by Alex Neist – former pro quarterback and founder of Hostage Tape. Alex took a personal struggle with mouth breathing and poor sleep and turned it into Hostage Tape—a no-nonsense solution that's now a multi-million dollar brand helping people around the world sleep and breathe better. We talk:     •    The birth of Hostage Tape     •    Turning a problem into a powerful brand     •    What it takes to scale a product-based business     •    The mindset shift men need to reclaim their health and habits     •    Building unapologetically and living with purpose This one's for the dudes ready to level up. 👇 Like, comment, and subscribe for more real conversations. ⸻ 🔗 Follow Alex Neist & Hostage Tape: Instagram: @alexneist (https://www.instagram.com/alexneist) Instagram: @hostagetape (https://www.instagram.com/hostagetape) Website: https://www.hostagetape.com 🔗 Follow Vinny Brusco (host): Instagram: @vinnybrusco_ (https://www.instagram.com/vinnybrusco_) YouTube: @vinnybrusco (https://www.youtube.com/@vinnybrusco) TikTok: @vinnybrusco (https://www.tiktok.com/@vinnybrusco) Website: https://www.vinnybrusco.com 🔗 Follow Agora Social Club: Instagram: @agorasocialclub (https://www.instagram.com/agorasocialclub) Website: https://www.agorasocialclub.com ⸻ 🎧 Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major platforms. https://wefunder.com/agorasocialclub

This episode features none other than Wilfred La Salle — acclaimed actor, director, and revolutionary force in independent cinema. We explore his powerful journey through storytelling, masculinity, mental health, and purpose. Known as the greatest independent filmmaker in the world, La Salle has redefined what's possible in cinema — producing high-quality films annually on zero-dollar budgets, uplifting unknown talent, and breaking barriers without traditional studio backing. His latest film, The Security Guard, is now streaming on Amazon and gaining national attention. La Salle's films like Hilo, Hilo II, Graves, Oculus, and now The Security Guard have earned him international acclaim — including awards at festivals in Italy and India, and recent appearances on PIX 11, FOX 5, ABC 7, and more. He recently signed a historic 2-year distribution deal with Fox Soul and is in talks with NBC's Peacock, setting a new standard in indie filmmaking.   Watch The Security Guard by Wilfred La Salle – Now on Amazon 📲 Follow Wilfred: Instagram – @wilfredlasalle (https://www.instagram.com/wilfredlasalle) La Salle Productions –   🧠 Connect with Vinny Brusco and Agora Social Club: Website – https://www.agorasocialclub.com Instagram – @agora_westchester(https://www.instagram.com/theagorasocialclub) 📢 Subscribe to The Council of Dudes for more real conversations that challenge, inspire, and build better men.

In this episode of The Council of Dudes, we sit down with G Santana from The Dad's Group Chat Podcast to explore what it really means to show up as a man in today's world. We get into fatherhood, masculinity, healing through nature, and why sometimes the best answers come from silence and stillness. This one's raw, reflective, and real. Tap in. 🎧 Follow G Santana: IG – @gsantana (https://instagram.com/gsantana) YouTube – Dad's Group Chat Podcast (https://youtube.com/@dadsgroupchatpodcast) TikTok – @dadsgroupchat (https://tiktok.com/@dadsgroupchat)

What if your back pain is more than just physical? Dr. Stephen Thorp, MD — also known as "The Back Doctor" — joins The Council of Dude to explore spine health, performance, recovery, and the deeper messages our bodies send us when we're out of alignment. Stephen is a double board-certified, fellowship-trained physician who studied at Yale, Weill Cornell, HSS, and Sloan Kettering. He currently practices in Westchester County, NY, helping athletes and everyday folks move and live better. This one's about posture, pain, and purpose. Don't miss it.

In this episode, we sit down with the one and only Dave Reggina — co-host of the No Snooze Podcast, co-founder of A.C.E. (Action Cultivates Excellence), and a powerhouse when it comes to personal development, entrepreneurship, and staying dialed in as a modern man. Dave brings the energy as we dive into the power of discipline, the importance of accountability, and how to build a life of purpose from the ground up. Whether you're chasing greatness or just trying to get 1% better every day, this conversation is for you. Follow Dave Reggina: Instagram: @davereggina (https://www.instagram.com/davereggina) No Snooze Podcast: @nosnoozepodcast (https://www.instagram.com/nosnoozepodcast) ACE: https://aceprogram.com Stay connected with The Council of Dudes: Subscribe, like, and drop a comment to let us know what hit home.

Join us for a special live edition of the Council of Dudes Book Club as we sit down with Sahil Bloom, author of The Five Types of Wealth. We dive deep into the frameworks behind building a rich life—not just financially, but physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Don't miss this powerful conversation on redefining success and designing a life that truly matters. Follow Sahil Bloom: Twitter: https://twitter.com/SahilBloom Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sahilbloom/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sahilbloom/ Newsletter: https://www.sahilbloom.com/newsletter If you enjoy content like this, like the video, subscribe to the podcast, and share it with someone who's building a richer life.