Heroic Stories

From atheist to Catholic. From undercover agent to spiritual mentor. What does it take for a hardened lawman to drop to his knees and finally say yes to God?In this powerful conversation, Dominic from Heroic Stories sits down with Dr. Curry Myers—America’s Criminologist—who opens up about the dangerous missions, moral scars, and quiet moments that ultimately led him to faith. He shares how a selfless act by his grandfather changed the trajectory of his entire family, how surviving a courthouse bombing forced a moment of surrender, and how a simple lunch with coworkers shattered his pride and unlocked the grace he’d been resisting for years.This is a story about preparation, masculinity, sacrifice, and conversion. It's about the quiet heroism of small decisions—and why forming the mind, body, and spirit matters more than ever for modern men. For anyone doubting their path or stuck in a spiritual dry spell, this story just might be your wake-up call.TIMESTAMPS00:00 Dr Curry Myers 08:31 Facing Danger18:24 Be Prepared26:09 Turning Point in Law Enforcement Career32:18 The Call to Faith and Community42:21 Role Models and Inspirations44:51 Maintaining Spiritual Discipline

What makes a man heroic in today's world? In this raw and powerful episode of Heroic Stories, Nathan Crankfield—Army veteran, Catholic convert, and founder of Seeking Excellence—dives deep into that question. Raised amid chaos, formed by faith, and sharpened through military grit, Nathan shares the moments that shaped his definition of modern heroism.From the martyrdom of St. Thomas More to the no-excuses discipline of his Army mentor, Nathan walks us through how ordinary men can live with extraordinary conviction. You'll hear how he found faith as a teenager, overcame self-destruction, and embraced responsibility in every area of life—from fatherhood to leadership.This episode is for anyone who’s ever asked: What does it mean to be a good man when the world doesn’t seem to want them anymore? It’s about the courage to fight for virtue, the strength to carry others, and the humility to seek greatness not for glory—but for God.ABOUT HEROIC MEN:Heroic Men strengthens men to become missionary disciples, to bring more men to Jesus Christ. Get the best Catholic media for men on our brotherhood-building platform - let's leave no man behind.Get the app: https://heroicmen.orgFind a ministry near you: https://heroicmen.org/mapJoin the Heroic Brotherhood: https://heroicmen.org/brotherhoodDonate now: https://heroicmen.org/donateFOLLOW ON SOCIAL:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heroicmanhoodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/heroicmanhood/TIMESTAMPS00:00 Nathan Crankfield03:16 Personal thoughts on Heroism12:52 Encounter at Mount St. Mary's14:38 Joining the Army17:10 The Impact of Sergeant Hollingsworth21:40 Heroes in Faith25:54 Defining Excellence: The Six Pillars of Life30:33 Becoming a Hero for the Next Generation

Matthew Christoff’s new book says happiness for Catholic men starts with taking the Sunday Gospel seriously. He frames Jesus as the “lion of Judah,” and reads the Gospels as a sustained campaign to overthrow “the kingdom of Satan,” marked by constant threats, confrontation, and Christ’s refusal to back down. Christoff traces his own decade-long devotion project to helping his father through a slow death after 47 years of sobriety, then surviving a medical crisis that forced him to face his own near-death without flinching. He aims to help young men (and, if possible, priests) with tools to make Catholic masculinity a parish priority.Website: https://everycatholicman.com/ABOUT HEROIC MEN:Heroic Men strengthens men to become missionary disciples, to bring more men to Jesus Christ. Get the best Catholic media for men on our brotherhood-building platform - let's leave no man behind.Get the app: https://heroicmen.orgFind a ministry near you: https://heroicmen.org/mapJoin the Heroic Brotherhood: https://heroicmen.org/brotherhoodDonate now: https://heroicmen.org/donateFOLLOW ON SOCIAL:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heroicmanhoodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/heroicmanhood/TIMESTAMPS00:00 Matthew Christoff01:14 The Ultimate Hero: Jesus Christ05:36 Matthew's Journey08:04 Facing Mortality: A Near-Dying Experience12:27 The Call to Serve: Inspiring Young Men17:33 Creating Resources for Catholic Men20:25 Future Projects

How does a man rise to the top—only to feel completely empty? In this powerful true story, Bill Moyer, a leadership coach and president of the Catholic Men's Leadership Alliance, shares the moment that changed everything: a midnight conversation with a homeless man on the streets of Austin. At the height of his career, after winning a world-class award, Bill was haunted by the hollowness of success and the wounds of a broken past. But when a stranger told him, “You’re never going to be happy until you go home,” Bill began a journey of radical transformation—back to faith, back to family, and back to the man he was called to be. This story is about what real heroism looks like: forgiveness, humility, and saying yes to God. If you’ve ever chased success only to feel lost, this episode will walk you home.Subscribe free to the weekly Heroic Men email: https://stories.heroicmen.orgFor the price of a coffee, you can support our mission to reach 25,000 men in 2025. https://heroicmen.org/give | ABOUT HEROIC MEN |Heroic Men strengthens men to become missionary disciples, to bring more men to Jesus Christ. Get the best Catholic media for men on our brotherhood-building platform - let's leave no man behind.Website: https://heroicmen.orgHeroic Map: Find an event near you: https://heroicmen.org/mapJoin the Heroic Brotherhood: Our only community: https://heroicmen.org/brotherhoodHeroic Merch: Show your support for this heroic mission: https://store.heroicmen.orgDonate now: Join the Heroic Alliance: https://heroicmen.org/alliance| FOLLOW ON SOCIAL |Facebook: / heroicmanhood Instagram: / heroicmanhood 00:00 — What We Mean by Heroism02:25 — A Simple Definition of a Heroic Man07:20 — Success, “Uncle Dad,” and the Empty Win12:00 — The Homeless Man Who Said “Go Home”13:40 — One Phone Call That Changed Two Families14:30 — Coming Home to the Church18:10 — The Challenge: Forgive Your Father21:00 — Saying “I Forgive You”25:40 — Walking a Father Home31:40 — Why New Year’s Resolutions Fail33:05 — Small Commitments That Actually Stick39:35 — The Mission: One Man at a Time44:05 — Spiritual Habits That Hold You Steady48:30 — “Be Like Mike”

Jeff Joaquin shares his raw and emotional journey from a life of addiction, idolatry, and despair to a profound encounter with God's mercy. Raised in a devout Catholic family, Jeff's struggles began early, leading him down a path of alcoholism, drug abuse, and poor choices. A cocaine-induced heart attack at age 24 became the turning point, compelling him to call out to Jesus Christ in desperation.Through the sacrament of general confession, Jeff experienced the life-changing power of God's forgiveness, transforming his brokenness into a message of hope for others. Now a devoted husband, father, and faith-filled speaker, Jeff uses his past to inspire men to leave sin behind, embrace vulnerability, and rediscover their purpose in Christ.From near-death experiences to saving lives by sharing his testimony, Jeff's story is a testament to the power of redemption and the infinite mercy of God. ABOUT THIS SHOW⁠⁠Heroic Stories⁠⁠—the series to strengthen Catholic men with raw stories of heroic grit & faith. Hosted by Dan Donaldson with Heroic Men. These are the stories that remind us… heroism isn’t born—it’s made, and it’s centered on Jesus Christ. ABOUT HEROIC MENHeroic Men strengthens men to become missionary disciples, to bring more men to Jesus Christ. Get the best Catholic media for men on our brotherhood-building platform - let's leave no man behind. ⁠⁠Website⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Heroic Map: Find an event near you⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Join the Heroic Brotherhood⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Heroic Merch⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Donate now⁠⁠FOLLOW ON SOCIAL⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠

What happens when you say yes to God… even when it means giving up your own dreams? In this powerful episode of Heroic Stories, Gil Alderete opens up about his unexpected journey from UPS driver to president of Catholic Men's Fellowship of California. Gil shares how God redirected his life, pulling him away from his plans to become a deacon and into building ministry for men across California, Nevada, Hawaii, and beyond.But Gil’s story isn’t just about leadership—it’s about healing old wounds, breaking generational cycles, and discovering what real masculinity and faith look like when you surrender. You’ll hear how heroic mentors, humble beginnings, and even deep struggles with identity shaped him into the man God called him to be.If you’ve ever felt lost, doubted your calling, or wondered how to find your purpose, Gil’s raw, honest journey will remind you: heroism isn’t born, it’s made.Subscribe free to the weekly Heroic Men email: https://stories.heroicmen.orgFor the price of a coffee, you can support our mission to reach 25,000 men in 2025. https://heroicmen.org/give | ABOUT HEROIC MEN |Heroic Men strengthens men to become missionary disciples, to bring more men to Jesus Christ. Get the best Catholic media for men on our brotherhood-building platform - let's leave no man behind.Website: https://heroicmen.orgHeroic Map: Find an event near you: https://heroicmen.org/mapJoin the Heroic Brotherhood: Our only community: https://heroicmen.org/brotherhoodHeroic Merch: Show your support for this heroic mission: https://store.heroicmen.orgDonate now: Join the Heroic Alliance: https://heroicmen.org/alliance| FOLLOW ON SOCIAL |Facebook:   / heroicmanhood  Instagram:   / heroicmanhood  TIMESTAMPS0:00 – Welcome to Heroic Stories3:00 – Starting Men's Ministry at Home6:00 – God Changed My Diaconate Plans9:00 – Letting Go of Old Dreams12:00 – Building Parish Brotherhood15:00 – My Wife's Heroic Faith18:00 – Father Michael's Impact21:00 – Returning to the Catholic Faith25:00 – Deepest, Darkest Moment30:00 – Healing Father Wounds35:00 – Embracing the Cross Daily40:00 – Who I Want to Be a Hero For

What if the path to heroism didn’t start with strength—but with panic? In The Hero’s Journey That Started with Anxiety, we follow Nick Pierlot, a Catholic husband, father, and missionary, as he walks us through his darkest hour: a breakdown on a spiritual pilgrimage. In the face of crippling panic attacks, emotional repression, and a crisis of identity, Nick uncovers an unexpected truth—heroism begins not with power, but with surrender. From battling inner dragons to chopping down literal god-trees, from failing forward to forming unshakable faith, this episode is a raw, honest deep dive into how God makes men heroic. It’s not about being the hero—it’s about letting God be one in you.#anxiety #panicattack #heroic #catholicmen #catholic #saints Subscribe free to the weekly Heroic Men email: https://stories.heroicmen.orgFor the price of a coffee, you can support our mission to reach 25,000 men in 2025. https://heroicmen.org/give | ABOUT HEROIC MEN |Heroic Men strengthens men to become missionary disciples, to bring more men to Jesus Christ. Get the best Catholic media for men on our brotherhood-building platform - let's leave no man behind.Website: https://heroicmen.orgHeroic Map: Find an event near you: https://heroicmen.org/mapJoin the Heroic Brotherhood: Our only community: https://heroicmen.org/brotherhoodHeroic Merch: Show your support for this heroic mission: https://store.heroicmen.orgDonate now: Join the Heroic Alliance: https://heroicmen.org/alliance| FOLLOW ON SOCIAL |Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heroicmanhoodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/heroicmanhood/TIMESTAMPS0:00 – Real stories of heroic faith3:00 – Story of St. Boniface begins6:00 – Chopping down Thor’s oak tree9:00 – Hobbit heroism: small brave acts12:00 – Chaos vs. sacred order15:00 – Personal journey starts with anxiety18:00 – Panic attacks on pilgrimage21:00 – 9 months of daily panic24:00 – The Father speaks after suffering27:00 – The blue snake moment30:00 – Called to help head meet heart33:00 – Young men and the pain of honor36:00 – Evangelization as one beggar to another39:00 – The dragon is where God knocks42:00 – Head, heart, and hands in mission

What if the day you lost your father was the day you became one? In this moving episode of Heroic Stories, Jay Wonacott opens up about the most painful turning point of his life—the sudden death of his dad—and how that loss became the moment he had to grow up, take responsibility, and lead with heart.From tearful hospital visits and lucid dreams to finding spiritual strength in daily prayer and brotherhood, Jay shares how his father’s legacy became his compass. He reveals how real heroism isn’t found in grand gestures, but in showing up for your family, doing the hard emotional work, and learning how to integrate mind, heart, and soul.If you've ever felt crushed by grief, unsure of how to step into leadership, or like you’re still waiting for someone to show you the way—this story is for you. Jay’s story is a roadmap for turning loss into legacy and fear into fortitude.Subscribe free to the weekly Heroic Men email: https://stories.heroicmen.orgFor the price of a coffee, you can support our mission to reach 25,000 men in 2025. https://heroicmen.org/give | ABOUT HEROIC MEN |Heroic Men strengthens men to become missionary disciples, to bring more men to Jesus Christ. Get the best Catholic media for men on our brotherhood-building platform - let's leave no man behind.Website: https://heroicmen.orgHeroic Map: Find an event near you: https://heroicmen.org/mapJoin the Heroic Brotherhood: Our only community: https://heroicmen.org/brotherhoodHeroic Merch: Show your support for this heroic mission: https://store.heroicmen.orgDonate now: Join the Heroic Alliance: https://heroicmen.org/alliance| FOLLOW ON SOCIAL |Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heroicmanhoodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/heroicmanhood/TIMESTAMPS0:00 – Real stories of heroic grit3:00 – Called to serve Idaho families6:00 – George Washington’s reluctant leadership9:00 – Fortitude through adversity12:00 – My father’s legacy of presence15:00 – My brother’s honest heroism18:00 – Daily rosary, inspired by my father-in-law21:00 – Uncle Ed: stripes on the bridge24:00 – Extraordinary things, ordinary ways27:00 – Dream: 'My hands are clean now'30:00 – Surviving my wife’s heart failure36:00 – Becoming the father, not just the son

Politics, Concentration Camps, & St Catherine of Sienna? What do a medieval saint and a concentration camp survivor have to say to a modern man trying to do the right thing? A lot, it turns out. Deacon Eric Paige opens up about his own turning point—from a fast track in politics to a life of faith and service. He talks about why St. Catherine of Siena’s fierce love and clear calling speak so deeply to him, and how Viktor Frankl’s ability to find meaning in the worst darkness still lights the way today. This isn’t about having it all figured out. It’s about trusting God enough to take the next step.For any man trying to show up for his family, his church, and himself—this is a story about courage, clarity, and how we keep going when the path isn’t clear.Subscribe free to the weekly Heroic Men email: https://stories.heroicmen.orgFor the price of a coffee, you can support our mission to reach 25,000 men in 2025. https://heroicmen.org/give | ABOUT HEROIC MEN |Heroic Men strengthens men to become missionary disciples, to bring more men to Jesus Christ. Get the best Catholic media for men on our brotherhood-building platform - let's leave no man behind.Website: https://heroicmen.orgHeroic Map: Find an event near you: https://heroicmen.org/mapJoin the Heroic Brotherhood: Our only community: https://heroicmen.org/brotherhoodHeroic Merch: Show your support for this heroic mission: https://store.heroicmen.orgDonate now: Join the Heroic Alliance: https://heroicmen.org/alliance| FOLLOW ON SOCIAL |Facebook:   / heroicmanhood  Instagram:   / heroicmanhood  TIMESTAMPS0:00 – Heroic Stories3:20 – Why St. Catherine of Siena7:13 – Choosing faith over politics11:02 – Role in diaconal formation18:44 – When life feels overwhelming24:34 – Gladiator and favorite films28:04 – Hope in dark places29:15 – Serving deacons and dads33:32 – St. Michael Chaplet routine

What if everything in your life came down to a single choice—a leap of faith that took just 20 seconds of insane courage?In this fire-starter episode of Heroic Stories, Kevin Phillips of Made for Greatness shares how ancient poems, unsung war heroes, and his own bold decisions shaped a life of purpose. From the story of Horatius at the bridge to crawling through enemy territory in Vietnam, these are the stories that ignite something primal—and spiritual—in the hearts of men.Kevin opens up about burning the boats of his career to follow a call to ministry, the terrifying moment on a cliff that taught him to trust, and the deep, hidden strength it takes to fight for your family and faith. This is not about hype or hustle—it's about sacrifice, grit, and the kind of courage that leaves a legacy.Whether you’re stuck, doubting, or just hungry for meaning, this conversation will remind you: you were made for fire, not for dust.Subscribe free to the weekly Heroic Men email: https://stories.heroicmen.orgFor the price of a coffee, you can support our mission to reach 25,000 men in 2025. https://heroicmen.org/give | ABOUT HEROIC MEN |Heroic Men strengthens men to become missionary disciples, to bring more men to Jesus Christ. Get the best Catholic media for men on our brotherhood-building platform - let's leave no man behind.Website: https://heroicmen.orgHeroic Map: Find an event near you: https://heroicmen.org/mapJoin the Heroic Brotherhood: Our only community: https://heroicmen.org/brotherhoodHeroic Merch: Show your support for this heroic mission: https://store.heroicmen.orgDonate now: Join the Heroic Alliance: https://heroicmen.org/alliance| FOLLOW ON SOCIAL |Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heroicmanhoodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/heroicmanhood/TIMESTAMPS0:00 – Welcome to Heroic Stories1:01 – Horatius at the Bridge2:30 – Three Men vs. An Army4:03 – “Why Isn’t This a Movie?”5:31 – Dunamis: Divine Explosive Power7:01 – Vietnam War & MACV-SOG9:00 – Charles Wicklo’s Near-Death Escape11:22 – Founding Made for Greatness14:39 – Quitting the Knights of Columbus16:39 – Boats on Fire: No Plan B19:27 – Jumping Off a Cliff in Faith23:25 – Setting Men on Fire with God

What do you do when you're trained for war, but life hits harder than combat? Retired Green Beret Colonel Sean Berg reveals the battles that tested him far beyond the battlefield. From leading elite teams through 10 combat deployments with zero fatalities to facing the terrifying unraveling of his own daughter’s mental health, this is the story of a soldier forced to rely on more than tactics—he had to rely on faith. As Sean walks us through the darkest moments of his family’s life, he shows us what it means to be truly heroic: not in action, but in surrender, resilience, and purpose. You’ll hear about impossible decisions, gut-wrenching doubt, and the strength it takes to say "no" to glory in order to say "yes" to love. For every man questioning his worth, fighting unseen battles, or wondering where God is in the pain—this is the conversation that proves you're not alone, and you were made for more.Subscribe free to the weekly Heroic Men email: https://stories.heroicmen.orgFor the price of a coffee, you can support our mission to reach 25,000 men in 2025. https://heroicmen.org/give | ABOUT HEROIC MEN |Heroic Men strengthens men to become missionary disciples, to bring more men to Jesus Christ. Get the best Catholic media for men on our brotherhood-building platform - let's leave no man behind.Website: https://heroicmen.orgHeroic Map: Find an event near you: https://heroicmen.org/mapJoin the Heroic Brotherhood: Our only community: https://heroicmen.org/brotherhoodHeroic Merch: Show your support for this heroic mission: https://store.heroicmen.orgDonate now: Join the Heroic Alliance: https://heroicmen.org/alliance| FOLLOW ON SOCIAL |Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heroicmanhoodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/heroicmanhood/TIMESTAMPS0:00 – What Makes a Hero1:00 – Intro to Sean's Story2:34 – Elite Warriors, High Stakes4:47 – “Troops in Contact” Call6:15 – Andre’s Life or Death Fight7:53 – Refusing to Quit9:57 – Brotherhood That Saves Lives13:07 – Hollywood vs Real Heroism16:05 – His Hardest Decision19:53 – When Your Daughter Wants to Die26:26 – Called to the Diaconate32:04 – Turning Down Power to Choose Love

This is the raw, powerful true story of Robert Tunmire, co-founder of Heroic Men, who went from the edge of destruction to a life of purpose and impact. At 16, Robert didn’t care if his future led to death or jail—until a chance meeting with a mentor changed everything. What follows is a story of redemption, sacrifice, and spiritual awakening.In this episode, you’ll hear how a man with no direction found his calling, built a business at 17, and eventually discovered that true strength comes not from doing it all, but from surrendering it all. From dealing with the pain of past mistakes—including the haunting regret of an abortion—to mentoring young men, Robert's story is proof that heroism isn’t about perfection. It’s about presence, courage, and becoming the man someone else needs you to be.Subscribe free to the weekly Heroic Men email: https://stories.heroicmen.orgFor the price of a coffee, you can support our mission to reach 25,000 men in 2025. https://heroicmen.org/give | ABOUT HEROIC MEN |Heroic Men strengthens men to become missionary disciples, to bring more men to Jesus Christ. Get the best Catholic media for men on our brotherhood-building platform - let's leave no man behind.Website: https://heroicmen.orgHeroic Map: Find an event near you: https://heroicmen.org/mapJoin the Heroic Brotherhood: Our only community: https://heroicmen.org/brotherhoodHeroic Merch: Show your support for this heroic mission: https://store.heroicmen.orgDonate now: Join the Heroic Alliance: https://heroicmen.org/alliance| FOLLOW ON SOCIAL |Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heroicmanhoodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/heroicmanhood/

What if everything you thought made you strong—your beliefs, your community, even your identity—suddenly became the very things holding you back? Dominic lived that question when choosing love meant losing his tribe, his home, and the only version of faith he had ever known. What followed was a decade-long deconstruction and reconstruction—through trauma, spiritual exile, and radical courage.This conversation pulls back the curtain on one man’s darkest moment and the quiet grit that carried him through. From sleeping on chapel floors to leading a movement of Catholic men toward healing and brotherhood, Dominic’s story is raw, real, and relentlessly human. If you’ve ever wrestled with who you are, what you believe, or how to keep going when everything falls apart, this episode offers a glimpse into the kind of heroism that doesn’t come with applause—but might just change your life.Subscribe free to the weekly Heroic Men email: https://stories.heroicmen.orgFor the price of a coffee, you can support our mission to reach 25,000 men in 2025. https://heroicmen.org/give| ABOUT HEROIC MEN |Heroic Men strengthens men to become missionary disciples, to bring more men to Jesus Christ. Get the best Catholic media for men on our brotherhood-building platform - let's leave no man behind.Website: https://heroicmen.orgHeroic Map: Find an event near you: https://heroicmen.org/mapJoin the Heroic Brotherhood: Our only community: https://heroicmen.org/brotherhoodHeroic Merch: Show your support for this heroic mission: https://store.heroicmen.orgDonate now: Join the Heroic Alliance: https://heroicmen.org/alliance| FOLLOW ON SOCIAL |Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heroicmanhoodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/heroicmanhood/

What if everything you thought was your purpose—your calling, your plans, your identity—suddenly unraveled? That’s what happened to Gabe when he left behind his dream of becoming a pastor, moved across the world, and found himself starting over with no roadmap, no money, and no clear direction.In this raw and honest conversation, Gabe shares how he faced spiritual silence, identity confusion, and the pressure of being a young father while carrying the quiet weight of self-doubt. From the impact of It’s a Wonderful Life to finding unexpected strength in St. Joseph and Mother Teresa, he opens up about the struggle of showing up when you feel unseen, and the power of doing the next right thing.If you’ve ever questioned your worth, your path, or whether you’re making a difference at all, Gabe’s journey will remind you that heroism isn’t flashy—it’s forged in the quiet, unseen acts of love and courage.| ABOUT HEROIC MEN |Heroic Men strengthens men to become missionary disciples, to bring more men to Jesus Christ. Get the best Catholic media for men on our brotherhood-building platform - let's leave no man behind.Website: https://heroicmen.orgHeroic Map: Find an event near you: https://heroicmen.org/mapJoin the Heroic Brotherhood: Our only community: https://heroicmen.org/brotherhoodHeroic Merch: Show your support for this heroic mission: https://store.heroicmen.orgDonate now: Join the Heroic Alliance: https://heroicmen.org/alliance| FOLLOW ON SOCIAL |Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heroicmanhoodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/heroicmanhood/

What if your darkest moment wasn’t the end—but the beginning of something heroic?In this raw and powerful episode, Chris shares how perfectionism nearly crushed his faith and mental health—and how one retreat cracked the door open to real healing. From growing up with a mechanical view of religion to battling self-harm in high school, Chris faced a silent storm of shame, isolation, and unmet expectations. But through unexpected grace, genuine friendship, and one life-changing confession, he began to find freedom—not in fixing himself, but in being loved as he was. Now a father, he’s on a mission to model real heroism: not the flawless kind, but the kind that shows up, fails forward, and loves in silence. If you’ve ever felt like you’re failing your way through life or faith, this story is for you.| ABOUT HEROIC MEN |Heroic Men strengthens men to become missionary disciples, to bring more men to Jesus Christ. Get the best Catholic media for men on our brotherhood-building platform - let's leave no man behind.Website: https://heroicmen.orgHeroic Map: Find an event near you: https://heroicmen.org/mapJoin the Heroic Brotherhood: Our only community: https://heroicmen.org/brotherhoodHeroic Merch: Show your support for this heroic mission: https://store.heroicmen.orgDonate now: Join the Heroic Alliance: https://heroicmen.org/alliance| FOLLOW ON SOCIAL |Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heroicmanhoodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/heroicmanhood/

What if the moment you built your life around—your career, your ambitions, your independence—was taken away in an instant? Dean faced that reality when he learned he was going blind. Mid-career, with a family relying on him, he spiraled into self-doubt and isolation. But instead of letting darkness consume him, he found new heroes, a deeper faith, and a mission to serve. From learning how to navigate a world without sight to walking into a maximum-security prison to bring hope to the forgotten, his story is one of resilience, Brotherhood, and faith. If you’ve ever felt lost, stuck, or alone, this conversation will challenge you to rethink what true strength looks like—and where to find it.Subscribe free to the weekly Heroic Men email: https://stories.heroicmen.orgFor the price of a coffee, you can support our mission to reach 25,000 men in 2025. https://heroicmen.org/give | ABOUT HEROIC MEN |Heroic Men strengthens men to become missionary disciples, to bring more men to Jesus Christ. Get the best Catholic media for men on our brotherhood-building platform - let's leave no man behind.Website: https://heroicmen.orgHeroic Map: Find an event near you: https://heroicmen.org/mapJoin the Heroic Brotherhood: Our only community: https://heroicmen.org/brotherhoodHeroic Merch: Show your support for this heroic mission: https://store.heroicmen.orgDonate now: Join the Heroic Alliance: https://heroicmen.org/alliance| FOLLOW ON SOCIAL |Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heroicmanhoodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/heroicmanhood/

Imagine starting something that no one believes in. That’s exactly what happened when Andre Regnier founded CCO in 1988. Evangelization wasn’t just uncommon in Catholic circles back then—it was almost a dirty word. But he and his wife pushed forward, convinced that God was calling them to bring young people back to the Church. In this conversation, Andre shares the struggles, the doubts, and the moments that almost made him quit. So how did he keep going? Two things: prayer and perseverance. He describes how his personal prayer life sustained him, how he learned to talk to God like a friend over coffee, and why prayer isn’t just about checking off a list—it’s about real relationship. He also shares the exact steps he teaches young people today to build a meaningful daily prayer life. If you've ever felt disconnected from prayer, if you've wondered how to hear God speak, or if you've needed encouragement to stay strong in your faith, this episode is for you. Plus, Andre introduces a simple prayer guide that could transform your own spiritual life.More about Andre RegnierABOUT THIS SHOW⁠⁠Heroic Stories⁠⁠—the series to strengthen Catholic men with raw stories of heroic grit & faith. Hosted by Dan Donaldson with Heroic Men. These are the stories that remind us… heroism isn’t born—it’s made, and it’s centered on Jesus Christ. ABOUT HEROIC MENHeroic Men strengthens men to become missionary disciples, to bring more men to Jesus Christ. Get the best Catholic media for men on our brotherhood-building platform - let's leave no man behind. ⁠⁠Website⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Heroic Map: Find an event near you⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Join the Heroic Brotherhood⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Heroic Merch⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Donate now⁠⁠FOLLOW ON SOCIAL⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠

What if everything you thought you believed was suddenly in question? How do you rebuild faith after walking away? Dr. John Bishop grew up a strong Catholic, but in college, he made the radical decision to abandon his faith in search of truth. He explored different religions, tested different worldviews, and chased experiences—only to end up more lost than ever. So how did he find his way back? And what can his journey teach men today about faith, purpose, and Brotherhood? Now the founder of Forge, John is leading a movement to restore masculinity and spiritual leadership in the Church. His story is proof that no matter how far you’ve strayed, God is always calling you home. The question is: Will you answer?Visit FORGE: https://myforge.org/ABOUT THIS SHOW⁠⁠⁠Heroic Stories⁠⁠⁠—the series to strengthen Catholic men with raw stories of heroic grit & faith. Hosted by Dan Donaldson with Heroic Men. These are the stories that remind us… heroism isn’t born—it’s made, and it’s centered on Jesus Christ. ABOUT HEROIC MENHeroic Men strengthens men to become missionary disciples, to bring more men to Jesus Christ. Get the best Catholic media for men on our brotherhood-building platform - let's leave no man behind. ⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Heroic Map: Find an event near you⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Join the Heroic Brotherhood⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Heroic Merch⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Donate now⁠⁠⁠FOLLOW ON SOCIAL⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠

When a Navy SEAL officer transitions from leading elite teams to figuring out personal trials, what happens when faith becomes his ultimate mission? Sam Blair’s journey is one of resilience, surrender, and change—moving from self-reliance to deep trust in God. From intense military training to the struggles of entrepreneurship and fatherhood, Sam shares the pivotal moment when he let go of control and embraced divine sonship. His story is a wake-up call for men seeking true strength, not just in battle, but in faith, brotherhood, and leadershipABOUT THIS SHOW⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Heroic Stories⁠⁠⁠—the series to strengthen Catholic men with raw stories of heroic grit & faith. Hosted by Dan Donaldson with Heroic Men. These are the stories that remind us… heroism isn’t born—it’s made, and it’s centered on Jesus Christ. ABOUT HEROIC MENHeroic Men strengthens men to become missionary disciples, to bring more men to Jesus Christ. Get the best Catholic media for men on our brotherhood-building platform - let's leave no man behind. ⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Heroic Map: Find an event near you⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Join the Heroic Brotherhood⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Heroic Merch⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Donate now⁠⁠⁠FOLLOW ON SOCIAL⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠

Alan shares his journey from the dark streets of New York, where violence and survival ruled his days, to a life of faith, purpose, and true Brotherhood in Christ. He opens up about the pain of abandonment, the false promises of gang loyalty, and the moment he cried out to God for a way out. A chance encounter, the love of a good woman, and an unexpected blessing set him on a path to redemption. Now, Alan is a devoted husband, father, and leader in his community, using his testimony to reach the next generation. This is a story of struggle, faith, and the power of real Brotherhood—the kind that lifts men up rather than tears them down.ABOUT THIS SHOW⁠⁠⁠Heroic Stories⁠⁠⁠—the series to strengthen Catholic men with raw stories of heroic grit & faith. Hosted by Dan Donaldson with Heroic Men. These are the stories that remind us… heroism isn’t born—it’s made, and it’s centered on Jesus Christ. ABOUT HEROIC MENHeroic Men strengthens men to become missionary disciples, to bring more men to Jesus Christ. Get the best Catholic media for men on our brotherhood-building platform - let's leave no man behind. ⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Heroic Map: Find an event near you⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Join the Heroic Brotherhood⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Heroic Merch⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Donate now⁠⁠⁠FOLLOW ON SOCIAL⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠