On this morning’s call, Hance dropped three book recommendations that have stood the test of time. Different styles, different stories, but all of them hit something important about resilience, purpose, and how we choose to live. Your challenge this week is simple. If you don’t already own one of these, grab a copy and start reading. Even 5–10 minutes a day. The goal isn’t to finish it this week, it’s just to start putting better thoughts in your head than the noise we usually scroll through. Meditations – Marcus Aurelius This is the private journal of a Roman emperor trying to be a better man. Short reflections on discipline, responsibility, dealing with difficult people, and controlling what you can control. It’s one of the foundations of Stoic thinking. Endurance – Alfred Lansing The true story of Ernest Shackleton and his crew after their ship was crushed in Antarctic ice in 1915. Stranded for nearly two years in brutal conditions, yet every man survived. One of the greatest stories of leadership and resilience ever told. The Alchemist – Paulo Coelho A short story about a shepherd chasing a dream that keeps calling him forward. It’s about purpose, courage, wrong turns, and learning to trust the path life puts in front of you. Your challenge: Pick one and start reading this week. Then come back and tell us which one you chose and why. If you’ve already read one, share what stuck with you.

If 16-year-old you could see your life right now…what would he think? Not the filtered version.The real one. Would he be proud of the way you show up? The man you’ve become? The battles you survived? And what would he call you out on? The excuses? The fear? The comfort zone you stayed in too long? This community is built for the honest answers, not the polished ones. Answer in two parts: 1. Proud of 2. Needs work 3. No deep explanation required. Just truth. I’ll go first in the comments. Your turn, men.