Losing a beloved pet is never easy, but stepping up to make the hard decisions is part of being a leader. In this deeply personal episode, I share the story of saying goodbye to Roo, my 14-year-old Australian cattle dog, and the lessons that came with it.

We talk about what it means to take ownership of difficult choices as a husband and father, the role of faith in grieving, and how rituals—like praying the rosary as a family—help us process loss. I also dive into the Catholic perspective on euthanasia, why human life is sacred, and what Scripture says about death, hope, and eternity.

And finally, we reflect on the passage of time—how life keeps moving forward, and how to honor the past while pressing on toward the future. If you’ve ever faced loss or wrestled with grief, this episode is for you.

Pour yourself a drink, pull up a chair, and let’s talk about what it means to be a man in the face of life’s hardest moments.

In this episode of Number Your Stories, we sit down with Bill Vitaletti, an inspiring Ironman competitor who didn’t start his endurance journey until after a full career in government contracting. Bill shares his incredible transformation—going from an overworked, out-of-shape executive to a world-class endurance athlete.

He discusses the pivotal moment that led him to pursue triathlons, the struggles he faced, and how faith played a crucial role in his journey. Bill’s story includes remarkable experiences, including a devastating bike crash during an Ironman that left him with a broken jaw—yet he still finished the race. Through it all, he emphasizes the power of goal-setting, pushing beyond your comfort zone, and the importance of faith.

If you’re looking for motivation to take on a new challenge or simply want to hear an inspiring tale of perseverance, faith, and transformation, this episode is for you. Check out Bills story at: https://www.connectionnewspapers.com/news/2016/dec/01/bumped-bruised-better/

Ever wonder where your limits truly lie? In this episode, Joe and I embark on a grueling 40-mile hike after a 3-day fast, testing our resilience and exploring what it means to push past comfort zones. Along the journey, we reflect on brotherhood, spirituality, and the small joys that make the hard moments worthwhile. Tune in to hear our insights, lessons learned, and why 2025 is the year to embrace 'doing hard things.' Get ready to be inspired to forge your own path of growth and discipline.

In this episode, we explore the power of belonging, purpose, and authentic leadership through the story of PVT Brown. This soldier's incredible journey from isolation to brotherhood in the military community reminds us of the transformative impact that genuine care and compassion can have. Join us as we dive into lessons of leadership, family, and faith, and how a single moment of connection can change everything. Whether you're in the military or seeking a deeper sense of community, this story will inspire you to make a difference in the lives of those around you.

In this episode, we sit down with master perfumer and close friend, Chris Grate, to discuss not only the intricate world of fragrance design but also the deeper pursuit of purpose. We explore Chris’s journey of turning his passion into a profession, sharing fascinating insights into the art and science behind creating personalized fragrances. Whether you're interested in perfumery or looking for inspiration on how to courageously follow your own calling, this episode dives into both.

We break down the structure of fragrances, the creative process, and how every step of their journey—though marked with challenges—is guided by their faith. They also discuss the balance between utility and identity in relationships and careers, offering wisdom for men seeking to live with intention and leave a lasting legacy.

If you're passionate about finding purpose, this episode offers practical insights, inspiring stories, and the courage to pursue what matters most.

Reach out to Chris for your own personalize fragrance via Instagram at @TheChristopherGrate or email the show at NumberYourStories@gmail.com

In this episode of Number Your Stories, we dive deep into what it takes to build strong teams and help folks earn respect.

We’ll talk about why setting high standards matters, how to inspire growth through struggle, and the importance of creating an environment where everyone earns their place. Whether you’re leading a team at work, coaching young men, or striving for personal growth, this episode will encourage you to embrace the challenges that lead to real pride and accomplishment.

Tune in for practical leadership insights and stories of resilience and grit.

Key Topics:

• Building a team that people are proud to be a part of
• The importance of standards and accountability
• How shared challenges create deeper bonds and stronger teams
• Lessons from the Army and football fields about earning your place

Listen now and be inspired to take on your own challenges, grow stronger, and lead with purpose.

In this episode of Number Your Stories, Logan Phillips dives deep into the world of youth football, but this isn’t your typical playbook. As head coach, Logan shares the real mission behind coaching young athletes—not just to win games, but to develop men of character who will lead with integrity long after the final whistle blows.

Why do we push these kids to the limit, knowing most won’t play in college, let alone the NFL? What does it take to build a culture of discipline and respect, while keeping the competitive edge? And how do we, as coaches, handle losses ourselves—because it’s not just the players who struggle with defeat.

Join Logan as he breaks down the unique role of coaching in shaping the next generation of leaders, offering practical insights, personal stories, and a fresh perspective on how football is about so much more than the scoreboard. Whether you’re a coach, a parent, or someone looking to inspire others, this episode will challenge how you think about sports—and life.

In this episode, we embark on a noble quest through the trials and triumphs of fatherhood. Like knights sworn to protect and guide, we delve into the art of balancing strength with compassion, the duty of being ever-present for our children, and the steadfast faith that lights our path. As we gather around the fireside, we share battle-tested wisdom, recount our victories and defeats, and inspire each other to continue this sacred journey. For every Christian man on a quest to lead his family with honor, this episode is your rallying call.