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.

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TIMESTAMPS
0:00 – Real stories of heroic grit
3:00 – Called to serve Idaho families
6:00 – George Washington’s reluctant leadership
9:00 – Fortitude through adversity
12:00 – My father’s legacy of presence
15:00 – My brother’s honest heroism
18:00 – Daily rosary, inspired by my father-in-law
21:00 – Uncle Ed: stripes on the bridge
24:00 – Extraordinary things, ordinary ways
27:00 – Dream: 'My hands are clean now'
30:00 – Surviving my wife’s heart failure
36:00 – Becoming the father, not just the son