Jcruz Podcast

In this episode, my wife and I reflect on what it’s been like raising our son, now 18, and the journey that brought us here. We talk about the importance of securing his identity as my son, even as a stepfather, and the deeper meaning of family beyond biology. We also explore the contrast between what the world teaches about raising boys and what the Bible says about guiding them into manhood. Ultimately, we encourage parents to lead their children toward Christ, grounding their lives in Scripture as the true foundation for growth and purpose.

We moved across the country and everything changed—including our relationships. We’re sitting down to talk about the reality of "leveling" relationships: why new friends challenge us differently, how to honor where you came from without staying stuck, and why evolving roles are a healthy part of life.Key Takeaway: Different doesn't mean better, and old doesn't mean bad. It’s all about the season you’re in.

In this episode, I’m joined by my wife, Elina Gudino, to share the deeply personal story of our cross-country move from Sacramento, California, to South Carolina.Leaving behind everything we knew wasn't easy, but it was a journey rooted in faith. We discuss the moment we decided to trust God and let go of our comfortable lives in CA, fueled by a hope for a better day-to-day quality of life for our children.A major driver for this transition was my health journey with Transverse Myelitis. We talk openly about the physical and emotional challenges that led us to seek a new environment where our family could truly thrive.Looking back, what we’ve received here in South Carolina has exceeded our expectations in every way. From the community to the peace we’ve found, we truly believe this move was a gift from God. Join us as we reflect on the beauty of obedience and the blessings that come when you step out in faith.In this episode, we cover:The decision to leave Sacramento and move to the East Coast.How Transverse Myelitis impacted our family and our choice to move.The spiritual journey of "letting go" and trusting God’s plan.Adjusting to life in SC and the unexpected gifts we’ve received.Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to keep up with our journey!

In this episode, we sit down with Austin to explore the realities of living out a deeply rooted faith in your twenties. From being raised in a Christian home to navigating the social cost of following biblical convictions, Austin shares a raw look at what it means to choose scripture over popularity.We dive into:The foundation of a Christian upbringing and its lasting impact.Dealing with the loss of friendships due to personal convictions.Navigating singleness as a 28-year-old in today’s world.The vital role and value of discipleship in the life of a believer.Whether you are navigating your own season of singleness or looking for encouragement to stand firm in your faith, Austin’s journey offers powerful insights into walking the narrow path.Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more conversations on faith and life!

In this episode of Sharper Together, we are joined by Chuckie Stevens for a powerful conversation on biblical manhood and spiritual growth.We dive deep into what it truly means to become the man God has called you to be in today’s world. Chuckie shares his insights and experiences on the essential pillars of the Christian walk: the transformative power of mission work, the necessity of intentional discipleship, and the strength found in authentic brotherhood and community.

In this powerful episode, I sit down with Alan LaChica to unpack a story that’s raw, honest, and ultimately full of hope.Alan shares what it was like to be abandoned at a young age, and how that early wound shaped his identity, relationships, and decisions as he grew older. We talk about the moment he came into a lot of money, and how that sudden success didn’t solve his problems—instead, it exposed and amplified sinful habits, hidden struggles, and areas of brokenness he hadn’t fully faced.We also dive deep into:The weight of generational curses and how patterns of pain and dysfunction can repeat across familiesThe choices and turning points that allowed Alan to break those cycles and start a new legacyThe near-destruction of his marriage and the honest work it took to fight for healingHow his marriage was ultimately restored and redeemed, and what redemption looks like in real life—not just as a concept, but as a daily walkThis is a conversation about trauma, temptation, accountability, faith, and second chances. If you’ve ever felt stuck in the same patterns, or wondered if your story can really change, Alan’s journey will encourage and challenge you.🔔 Subscribe for more real, unfiltered stories of transformation and hope.👍 If this episode speaks to you, please like, comment, and share it with someone who needs to hear it.

In this powerful episode, I sit down with Roy for a raw and honest conversation about pain, redemption, and the faithfulness of God.Roy opens up about getting kicked out at an early age and how the instability of those years shaped him. We talk about the deep struggles within his immediate family, the brokenness that came with infidelity, and the moments when he felt like giving up completely—on his marriage, on himself, and on life as he knew it.But this isn’t just a story of failure. It’s a story of grace.Roy shares how God stepped into the middle of the mess, began to restore his marriage, and transform both him and his wife from the inside out. We discuss what real change looks like, the hard work of rebuilding trust, and how hope can be reborn even after the deepest betrayal.If you’ve ever felt like your story is too far gone or your marriage is beyond repair, this episode will remind you that God still heals, restores, and makes all things new.

Josh Massey

Podcast Episode DescriptionFrom dreaming of the big leagues to surrendering everything at the feet of Jesus—this episode traces a powerful journey of identity, calling, and true discipleship.Our guest opens up about his early dream of a future MLB career and how baseball quickly became more than just a game; it became his identity. Growing up culturally Catholic, faith was always around but rarely personal. That all began to change when he encountered authentic discipleship and a community that didn’t just talk about Jesus, but lived like Him.In this conversation, we dive into:How chasing baseball success shaped his sense of self—and how it nearly defined himThe pivotal moments where discipleship led him from religion to genuine faithThe role of Christ-centered community in healing, growth, and spiritual maturityThe radical decision to devote his life to missions workWhat it truly means to deny yourself and follow Jesus dailyIf you’ve ever wrestled with who you are apart from your accomplishments, questioned your upbringing in the church, or wondered what it looks like to fully surrender your plans to God, this episode will challenge and encourage you to grow closer to Christ—no matter where you’re starting from.#MLBCareer #BaseballLife #CatholicCulture #FindingJesus #Discipleship #ChristianCommunity #MissionsWork #DenySelf #GrowInChrist #FaithJourney #ChristianPodcast #SpiritualGrowth #IdentityInChrist #SurrenderToGod #ChristianTestimony #FromBaseballToMissions #JesusFollower #PodcastForChristians #FaithAndSports #NewCreation

Special quest Kyle Renfrow

Why the pause from uploads

Jared Hinkle

Chris Wheatley

Enter Matt Davis

The Why

My guest today shares how he came to faith, the road to being a pastor along with the struggles it brings.