A tragedy unfolds, or someone we know is in distress. We send our thoughts and prayers—a kind and compassionate gesture, but what comes next? In this episode, Joe and Curt discuss moving beyond words to take real action. They highlight outstanding charities that turn generosity into tangible impact, helping with disaster relief, mental health, veterans, homelessness, and at-risk youth. Whether writing a check or volunteering your time, today is about making a difference.

• Thoughts & Prayers Matter—But Action Matters More: Compassion is essential, but real change happens when we follow up with concrete steps to help.
• Charitable Giving & Volunteering Make a Difference: From supporting disaster victims to mentoring at-risk youth, even small contributions can have a significant impact.
• The Power of Community: Whether donating to a major nonprofit or helping a single individual in need, collective action creates real change.
• Faith Without Works is Dead: Faith and belief should be reflected in action—helping others is part of a meaningful life.

• Win: Successfully launched a brand refresh at work, managing internal branding and a viral blog post with over 2,500 reads!
• Resource: Calm Moments for Anxious Days by Max Lucado – A 90-day devotional that provides scripture, reflections, and a structured way to release anxieties through prayer.
• Quote: “No one is useless in this world who lightens the burdens of another.” — Charles Dickens

• Win: Developed a marketing and sales strategy for a new region, helping expand business opportunities.
• Resource: Google Wallet – A game-changer for organizing credit cards, travel passes, and payments with a simple tap. Why didn’t I start using this sooner?
• Quote: “Faith without works is dead.” — James 2:14-18

Here are five well-respected organizations making a real difference:

1. Matthew 25 Ministries – Provides disaster relief and humanitarian aid. 99% of donations go directly to programs. https://m25m.org/
2. American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) – Focuses on crisis support, education, and suicide prevention. https://afsp.org/
3. Wounded Warrior Project – Supports injured veterans with mental health services, job training, and rehabilitation. https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/
4. Volunteers of America – Offers shelter, addiction recovery, and job training for the homeless, including veterans. https://www.voa.org/
5. Big Brothers Big Sisters of America – Mentors at-risk youth, helping them succeed academically and in life. https://www.bbbs.org/

Thoughts and prayers are a beautiful start, but real change happens when we step up and do more. Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply being there for someone in need, even small acts of kindness make an enormous difference. Progress, not perfection—just keep moving forward.

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

Today we dive into the profound world of prayer structures that can enhance and guide your spiritual journey. If you've ever struggled with finding the right words for your prayers, you’re not alone. Explore the wisdom of the Lord's Prayer and learn three more practical structures that can help both beginners and seasoned believers deepen their prayer life.

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

The information provided in this episode is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Joe and Curt are not doctors, medical professionals, or healthcare experts. Always consult with a qualified physician or healthcare provider before making any decisions regarding your health, medical tests, or treatments. Your doctor knows your personal medical history best and can provide the most accurate guidance for your individual needs.

Stay informed, stay proactive, but always seek professional medical advice when it comes to your health.

No one loves a trip to the doctor, but if you're over 50, regular health screenings can be the key to a longer, healthier life. In this episode, Joe and Curt run down the must-do medical tests every guy should know—from simple blood pressure checks to life-saving cancer screenings. The goal? Stay in the game, stay active, and stay ahead of potential health issues before they become major problems.

• Annual Physicals Matter: A yearly check-up is a great way to catch small issues before they become big problems. Don’t skip it.
• Know Your Numbers: Blood tests for cholesterol, glucose, and PSA levels can provide critical insights into your overall health.
• Screenings Save Lives: Colonoscopies, prostate exams, and skin cancer checks are uncomfortable but essential for catching diseases early.
• Lifestyle is Key: Exercise, diet, hydration, and sleep play just as big a role in your long-term health as any medical test.

• Win: Celebrated his birthday in style with a trip to New York City, where he and his daughter saw Little Shop of Horrors on Broadway.
• Resource: A Ryobi Electric Screwdriver Kit—handy for home projects and even doubles as a phone charger!
• Quote: “The first wealth is health.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson

• Win: Had a blast at his first-ever University of Cincinnati basketball game with his grandkids, followed by a weekend of go-karts and arcade fun.
• Resource: Home Blood Pressure Monitor—A simple, affordable way to keep track of your health at home. Available for around $30 on Amazon.
• Quote: “Those who think they have no time for healthy eating will sooner or later have to find time for illness.” — Edward Stanley

Staying healthy isn’t just about living longer—it’s about living better. Regular check-ups, proactive screenings, and smart lifestyle choices can make all the difference. Take the time to schedule those appointments and invest in your well-being. Future you will thank you!

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

And hey, milestone alert—this is episode 103, meaning we’ve officially passed 100 episodes of Dudes in Progress! Here’s to 100 more. Progress, not perfection—just keep moving forward!

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