Ever hesitate to offer advice, fearing it might be taken the wrong way—or ignored altogether? In this episode, Joe and Curt delve into the art of sharing wisdom in a way that resonates. From tough conversations with loved ones to navigating the fine line between helpfulness and intrusiveness, the Dudes break down when and how to speak up, the importance of humility, and why wisdom delivered with care can change lives.

• Listen First: People often just want to feel understood. Stephen Covey’s mantra applies: “Seek first to understand, then to be understood.”
• Ask for Permission: A simple, “Would you like my thoughts on this?” can shift the dynamic from intrusive to supportive.
• Lead by Example: Actions speak louder than words. Be someone they can trust based on your own experiences.
• Simplify Your Advice: Avoid overcomplicating solutions. Clear, actionable guidance is easier to follow and more impactful.
• Extend Grace: Whether to yourself or others, compassion is key—especially when facing tough or emotional conversations.

• Win: Enjoyed a much-needed holiday break filled with family time, movies, and quiet moments for reflection.
• Resource: “The Fourth Quarter of Your Life” by Matthew Kelly and Alan Hunt – A reflective guide to embracing what matters most in your later years. Perfect for contemplating how to live with intention and purpose.
• Quote: “Humility will open more doors than arrogance ever will.” – Zig Ziglar

• Win: Spent a memorable day with a longtime friend in New York City, exploring the Metropolitan Museum of Art and reconnecting through meaningful conversation.
• Resource: DIY vinyl record storage project, inspired by a blog post by John Vantine. A great beginner woodworking project for practical and stylish results.
• Quote: “You are as young as your faith, as old as your doubt, as young as your self-confidence, as old as your fear, as young as your hope, as old as your despair.” – Douglas MacArthur

Sharing wisdom isn’t just about knowing what to say—it’s about knowing when and how to say it. With humility, patience, and intention, your words can leave a lasting impact on those you care about. Remember, progress, not perfection, is the goal.

Website: dudesinprogress.com
Email: dudes@dudesinprogress.com

You can support the show by visiting dudesinprogress.com/support. Visit our Facebook page HERE and our Twitter page HERE

This week we dive into the significance of Christmas, exploring the story of God becoming human through the birth of Jesus, and reflect on themes like humility, kindness, joy, and hope. We discuss the importance of generosity, share personal anecdotes about family traditions, and emphasize the everlasting impact of the Christmas spirit. Additionally, we highlight the importance of faith, the history behind Christmas traditions, and the joy of giving over receiving. The episode aims to uplift listeners as they transition into the New Year while maintaining the Christmas spirit. You can support the show by visiting dudesinprogress.com/support. Visit our Facebook page HERE and our Twitter page HERE

As 2024 wraps up, Joe and Curt take a thoughtful dive into planning for 2025—but not with traditional goal-setting. This episode is all about aligning your life with your core values. The Dudes discuss how prioritizing values over arbitrary goals can create a meaningful year, fostering deeper connections, intentional living, and personal growth. With practical insights and relatable stories, this episode is your guide to living a values-centered life in 2025.

• Understand and Prioritize Your Values: Define what truly matters to you, such as relationships, community, or personal growth. Let these guide your decisions and actions.
• Build Habits for Consistency: Small, daily actions aligned with your values create sustainable momentum.
• Time Management with Purpose: Plan your time around your values to ensure your schedule reflects what matters most.
• Maintain Motivation and Accountability: Use reflection and accountability partners to stay on track with your values.
• Embrace Flexibility and Progress Over Perfection: Let life unfold with your values as a guide, and celebrate small wins along the way.

• Win: A fun-filled weekend with his grandkids at Winterfest and a Bengals game, creating cherished memories.
• Resource: "Things That Matter" by Joshua Becker – A minimalist guide to eliminating distractions and focusing on what truly matters.
• Quote: "Someone’s sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago." — Warren Buffett

• Win: Built a DIY storage ottoman from wood pallets—a creative and practical project aligned with his values.
• Resource: YouTube for Pallet Woodworking – A treasure trove of tutorials for beginners and seasoned DIYers alike.
• Quote: "Your beliefs become your thoughts. Your thoughts become your words. Your words become your actions. Your actions become your habits. Your habits become your values. And your values become your destiny." — Mahatma Gandhi

As you gear up for 2025, take time to reflect on your values and how they can shape your year. Whether it’s building habits, deepening connections, or pursuing meaningful projects, focus on progress over perfection. Remember, every small step counts toward a life aligned with your values.

Website: dudesinprogress.com
Email: dudes@dudesinprogress.com

Dive into holiday chaos and laughter with us! In our latest episode, we explore the timeless hilarity and heartfelt moments from 'Planes, Trains, and Automobiles' and 'National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation.' Perfect to get into the holiday spirit! You can support the show by visiting dudesinprogress.com/support. Visit our Facebook page HERE and our Twitter page HERE

Thanksgiving—a time for turkey, pie, and the wild gauntlet of family dynamics. Whether you’re dodging controversial conversations, dealing with that one uncle who overshares, or sitting next to your least favorite cousin, there’s a way to not only survive but thrive. Today, we’ll dive into tips for keeping the peace, finding gratitude in the chaos, and laughing through it all. Because even when things get awkward, there’s still plenty to be thankful for.

• Prepare Your Mindset: Approach Thanksgiving with gratitude and the mantra: “This is temporary, and I’m thankful for this experience.”
• Redirect Conversations: Steer discussions away from contentious topics by focusing on movies, shared memories, or neutral subjects.
• Reframe the Moment: Treat awkward or tense interactions as future funny stories. Every Cousin Eddie moment can be a cherished memory.
• Find Gratitude: Reflect on the good food, the funny moments, and the people you’re with—quirks and all. Thanksgiving is about appreciating what you have.

• Win: Completed three days’ worth of work on a focused Saturday, clearing his plate for the Thanksgiving break.
• Resource: A portable cordless air compressor, perfect for inflating car tires, sports balls, and more. Handy and effective at just $30 on Amazon.
• Quote: “Thanksgiving is a time to count your blessings one by one as each relative goes home.” — Melanie White

• Win: Margita booked a last-minute Christmas trip to Disney World, complete with Disney magic and time with friends.
• Resource: PetSafe Easy Walk Dog Harness — an essential tool for enjoying walks with energetic or strong-pulling dogs.
• Quote: “Family is not an important thing. It’s everything.” — Michael J. Fox

Thanksgiving may bring its challenges, but it’s also an opportunity for connection, gratitude, and great food. Approach it with a positive mindset, a sense of humor, and a focus on making memories. Progress, not perfection—just keep moving forward.

Website: dudesinprogress.com
Email: dudes@dudesinprogress.com

You can support the show by visiting dudesinprogress.com/support. Visit our Facebook page HERE and our Twitter page HERE

Introducing Transformative Practices Habits vs. Transformative Practices Defining Transformative Practices Examples of Transformative Practices The Importance of Lifelong Learning Learning Through Side Hustles Seven Tips for Transformative Practices Managing Your Energy Levels Starting Small and Being Consistent Setting Clear Intentions Creating a Routine Reflecting Regularly Seeking Support Celebrating Small Wins Weekly Wins and Resources Inspirational Quotes You can support the show by visiting dudesinprogress.com/support. Visit our Facebook page HERE and our Twitter page HERE

In this episode, Joe and Curt dive into side hustles you can start for under $500. Whether you’re looking to boost your income, explore a new passion, or add some flexibility to your retirement plans, there’s a side hustle for you. Join the Dudes as they discuss practical, affordable business ideas, offer tips to make your hustle successful, and share personal wins for the week.

Key Takeaways

Start Where You Are: Whether you have skills in a craft, tech consulting, or even walking dogs, start with what you know and explore ways to monetize it. Focus on Low-Cost Businesses: From online course creation to print-on-demand designs, many side gigs require minimal upfront investment. Keep Your Goals in Mind: Are you looking for extra income, a new career, or a creative outlet? Knowing your goals will help you focus on the best side hustle for you. Consider Passive Income Opportunities: Some side hustles, like creating online courses or print-on-demand products, offer the potential for income that can grow over time without constant effort.

Joe's Stuff for the Week

• Win: Finished a series of small home repairs just before hosting friends for dinner.
• Resource: Side Hustle School by Chris Guillebeau — short, insightful podcast episodes packed with tips for launching a side hustle.
• Quote: “I've been impressed with the urgency of doing. Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Being willing is not enough; we must do.” — Leonardo da Vinci

Curt's Stuff for the Week

• Win: Progressed on his bathroom remodel by installing baseboards and prepping for final touches.
• Resource: Seasonal sales at Lowe’s, Home Depot, and Harbor Freight for tools and gadgets to help complete home projects on a budget.
• Quote: “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” — Arthur Ashe

You can support the show by visiting dudesinprogress.com/support. Visit our Facebook page HERE and our Twitter page HERE

Curtis and Joe delve into various horror movies' significant impact and thematic elements, discussing their favorite films and the lessons they glean from them. They explore how horror movies like 'Jaws,' 'The Exorcist,' 'Halloween,' 'Silence of the Lambs,' 'An American Werewolf in London,' 'The Ring,' 'The Skeleton Key,' 'Evil Dead 2,' and 'The Shining' convey deeper themes of courage, survival, mental health, and the importance of respecting boundaries. They also share personal anecdotes about their experiences with horror movies and reflect on the broader significance of Halloween. The episode wraps up with both hosts celebrating their wins for the week and offering practical resources and tips.

Joe’s Stuff: Win for the week: Weekend at my daughter’s house

Resource: https://www.netflix.com/browse/genre/8711 Quote: "All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy." – The Shining Written obsessively by Jack Torrance, underscores the importance of balance and the dangers of losing oneself to obsessive pursuits.

Curt’s Stuff: Win for the Week: I finished the luxury vinyl flooring install in my bathroom. Resource, Tip or Hack: Luxury vinyl flooring from Home Depot

• Use scrap pieces for the ¼ “ gap on the ends
• Use a scrap piece of floor for hammering floor together
• Bought the flooring kit from Harbor Freight that has a pull bar for $10
• YouTube videos

Quote: "You’re going to need a bigger boat." – Chief Brodie - Jaws Symbolizes the need for preparation and resourcefulness in tackling big challenges.

You can support the show by visiting dudesinprogress.com/support. Visit our Facebook page HERE and our Twitter page HERE