PODCAST · religion
THE DRIVE
by Josh Downs
A short, daily faith-based podcast offering reflections, principles, and challenges to help you navigate life’s journey.
Episodes
-
Learn to Embrace “I Can’t”
What if saying “I can’t” is not an admission of defeat, but the beginning of becoming more than you are right now? Using a powerful lesson from Kung Fu Panda 3, Josh explores why failure is not something to fear or hide. If we only attempt what we already know how to do, we will never grow beyond...
-
Find Your Authentic Swing
Are you living according to your real values—or performing the version of yourself you think other people will approve of? In this episode, Josh explores authenticity, integrity, and the exhausting pressure of wearing a mask. Through personal reflections, practical steps, scripture, the example…
more -
You Must Do Hard Things
Growth often requires leaving what feels safe before we feel ready for what comes next. In this episode, Josh shares the story of his family’s beloved dog Bear, the unexpected lessons he learned from two little hermit crabs, and the vulnerability required when we outgrow the comfortable “shells”…
more -
Too Much Sunshine Makes a Desert
Everyone wants happiness, comfort, and good days—but could too much ease actually keep us from becoming who we are meant to be? In this episode, Josh explores the powerful truth behind the phrase, “Sunshine all the time just makes a desert.” Just as plants need both sunlight and rain to grow, our...
-
Don’t Judge the Moment Too Soon
What if the setback you are facing is not the end of the story, but a redirection toward something you cannot yet see? In this episode, Josh introduces the idea of gratitude 2.0—learning not only to be grateful for the good things in life, but to remain grateful and trusting when life does not go...
-
The Healing Ointment of Forgiveness
Forgiveness does not pretend the wound never happened. It allows the wound to stop controlling what happens next. In this episode, Josh shares the image of a splinter trapped beneath the skin and the healing ointment that eventually softened the wound enough for it to be released. He then tells…
more -
Ubuntu: I Am Because We Are
We live in a world that celebrates individual achievement, but no one accomplishes anything entirely alone. In this episode, Josh introduces the African philosophy of ubuntu, often expressed as, “I am because we are.” Through stories of a record-breaking high school football player, children...
-
Resistance Does Not Mean You’re Failing
Have you ever tried to make a positive change, only to find yourself procrastinating, making excuses, becoming discouraged, or slipping back into an old habit? Using the stock market concepts of pressure, resistance, support, and long-term investment, Josh explains why meaningful change is rarely...
-
Fight for Those Who Are Different
How do we remain true to our beliefs while treating people who believe or live differently with genuine love and respect? In this episode, Josh explores the difference between evaluating a choice and devaluing a person. He discusses agency, religious freedom, acceptance, disagreement, and the…
more -
She Saw What Was Possible: Empowering Women and Girls
While watching a Utah Jazz game, Josh’s daughter noticed a woman officiating and excitedly said, “Ooo…a woman ref!” It was a small moment, but it revealed the power of seeing someone like you accomplish something you may never have imagined was possible. In this episode, Josh explores why…
more -
What Will You Be Remembered For? (Leaving Your Mark)
Have you ever thought about what your name will mean to others when you’re gone? In this episode, we explore the idea that your legacy isn’t something you leave behind at the end—it’s something you’re building every single day through your choices, actions, and the way you treat others. Through...
-
What Really Matters Most (Everything Between the Shots)
It’s easy to focus on the big moments in life—the wins, the milestones, the achievements. But what if the most meaningful part of life isn’t the big moments at all? In this episode, we explore a powerful reminder that what matters most isn’t the “shots” we take—but everything that happens in...
-
The Best Is Yet to Be (Let Go of the Past)
It’s natural to look back at the past—especially when it felt better, simpler, or happier than where you are now. But what if holding on to the past is actually keeping you from something greater ahead? In this episode, we explore the powerful truth that faith is always forward-facing—and why...
-
No Trespassing, No Dumping (Protect Your Mind)
What you allow into your mind will eventually shape your life. In this episode, we explore a powerful principle: your thoughts are like a vacant lot—if you don’t guard them, anything can move in and take over. From bitterness and resentment to worry and negativity, it’s easy to let harmful…
more -
The Secret to Happiness (It’s Simpler Than You Think)
We spend so much of our lives chasing happiness—thinking it’s found in having more, achieving more, or becoming more. But what if the secret to happiness is actually much simpler than that? In this episode, we explore a powerful truth that flips that idea on its head. Through a meaningful…
more -
Turbulence Doesn’t Mean You’re Falling (You’re Built to Fly)
When life gets turbulent, it’s easy to assume something is going wrong—but what if turbulence is actually part of the design? In this episode, we explore a powerful truth: just like an airplane, you were built not only to fly, but to withstand the rough air that comes along the way. Through...
-
What Are You Really Chasing? (Finding Your True Treasure)
We spend so much of our lives chasing things—success, money, recognition, comfort—but have you ever stopped to ask if what you’re chasing is actually worth it? In this episode, we explore how your values shape your life, and why what you seek ultimately determines who you become. Through simple...
-
“This Is Just Who I Am”… or Is It? (Acceptance vs. Change)
It’s easy to fall into the mindset of “this is just who I am”—but what if that belief is actually holding you back? In this episode, we explore the balance between accepting yourself as you are and still striving to become better, and why both are essential for real growth. You’ll learn how true...
-
Never Not Be Afraid… or Choose Faith Instead?
Fear can feel like it’s protecting you—but what if it’s actually holding you back from the life you’re meant to live? In this episode, we explore the powerful difference between living in fear and choosing faith, and how stepping into the unknown can open the door to growth, strength, and new...
-
What Does a Healthy Relationship Actually Look Like?
A lot of people are in relationships—but far fewer truly understand what a healthy one looks like. In this episode, we break down the difference between healthy and unhealthy relationships in a simple, relatable way, helping you evaluate where yours stands and where it could improve. From trust…
more -
The Hard Truth About Addiction: Let Them Climb Without the Rope
When someone you love is struggling with addiction, your instinct is to help—to step in, protect, and rescue. But what if the very thing you’re doing to help is actually holding them back? In this episode, we explore a powerful principle that can change how you approach addiction and recovery:...
-
Are You Helping… or Hurting? (Enabling vs. Empowering)
Sometimes the very things we do to help the people we love can actually hold them back. In this episode, we explore the powerful difference between enabling and empowering—and how good intentions can quietly turn into long-term harm if we’re not careful. Through real-life examples and simple...
-
Are You Losing Yourself in Your Relationships? (Understanding Co-Dependency)
Co-dependency is one of the most common—and often unnoticed—patterns affecting our relationships today. It can show up in subtle ways, slowly pulling you away from your own identity as your mood, happiness, and sense of self become tied to someone or something else. In this episode, we break down...
-
The Hidden Wounds Behind Your Boundary Struggles
Sometimes the biggest problems in our lives come from the smallest, unseen injuries—things that happened years ago but were never fully dealt with. In this episode, we explore how boundary injuries form, why they stick with us, and how they quietly shape our relationships, behaviors, and sense of...
-
How Your Boundaries Were Formed (and Why They Still Affect You Today)
Most of the boundary struggles you face today didn’t start today—they were formed years ago, often in your earliest relationships. In this episode, we take a deeper look at where boundaries actually come from and why so many of us find it hard to say no, create balance, or show up fully for the...
-
Who Packed Your Parachute Today?
Take a moment and think…who has quietly helped you get through your day today? In this episode, we share the powerful story of a Navy pilot who came face to face with the man who packed the parachute that saved his life—and the life-changing realization that followed. It’s a reminder that none of...
-
Don't Forget to Make Your Bed
What if one of the smallest things you do each day… could have one of the biggest impacts on your life? In this episode, we explore how life-changing outcomes are often the result of tiny, almost unnoticed choices. A shift of just a few degrees—whether in direction, habits, or decisions—can lead…
more -
Your “Check Life” Light Is On
What if you already have a built-in warning system for your life… and you’ve just been ignoring it? In this episode, we explore the powerful analogy of a car’s check engine light—and how it mirrors something we all have: our conscience, our intuition, that still small voice guiding us. Just like...
-
The Best Financial Advice You’ll Ever Get
What if the best financial advice you could ever receive had less to do with stocks, strategies, or making money—and more to do with who you are becoming? In this episode, we take a deeper look at money through a different lens—one rooted in faith, stewardship, and eternal perspective. While the...
-
When Life’s Recipe Doesn’t Turn Out Like We Thought
What do you do when life doesn’t turn out the way you thought it would? When the “recipe” you believed in—do the right things, follow the plan, and everything works out—doesn’t seem to produce the results you expected? In this episode, we explore how unmet expectations can lead to frustration,...
-
I Have Learned for Myself
One of the greatest things we can do for another person is not just teach them something… but help them learn for themselves. In this episode, we look at a simple but powerful principle: the difference between giving someone answers and helping them discover truth, confidence, and ability on…
more -
The Value of a Sunset
Sometimes the most meaningful things in life are also the simplest. In this episode, we talk about slowing down enough to notice what matters most—especially with the people we love. Through the simple experience of chasing sunsets with my daughters, this message explores the value of presence,...
-
Children and Divorce: Helping Kids Through One of Life’s Hardest Changes
Divorce is one of the most painful experiences a family can go through, and one of the heaviest concerns in the middle of it is always the same: What will this do to the kids? In this episode, we talk honestly and tenderly about children and divorce—how kids are affected, what warning signs to...
-
The Wrestle of Prayer
Prayer is more than asking for help. It is one of the greatest ways we stay connected to God in the middle of life’s battles. In this episode, we talk about the power of prayer, the purpose of prayer, and why prayer is often a wrestle as much as it is a comfort. We’ll talk about: why we need…
more -
Living with Intention Instead of Expectation
So much of our frustration in life comes from expectation. We expect things to go a certain way. We expect ourselves to do more, be more, and get everything right. We expect other people to act how we think they should. And when life doesn’t cooperate, we end up discouraged, disappointed, and...
-
Stop “Shoulding” on Yourself
How often do you tell yourself what you should have done… what you should be doing… or what you have to do? In this episode, we look at one simple but powerful mindset shift that can dramatically change the way you think about yourself, your life, and your responsibilities. We’ll talk about: why...
-
Winning the Morning: How to Start Your Day Right
If you want to win the day… you have to win the morning. In this episode, we talk about why so many of our days feel rushed, reactive, and behind before they even really begin—and what you can do to change that. We’ll cover: why your morning start matters so much how to create momentum early the...
-
The Heartache of Betrayal and Other Life-Altering Events
Few things hurt like betrayal. In this episode, we look at the deep emotional and spiritual pain that comes when trust is broken—whether by family, friends, a spouse, or anyone we never thought would hurt us. We’ll talk about: why betrayal cuts so deeply what it does to the heart and mind how it...
-
Switch Points: One Decision Can Change Everything
You are only one decision away from a totally different life. In this episode, we explore the power of choice—especially the small daily choices that quietly shape our future more than we realize. We’ll talk about: how little decisions become life-changing outcomes why vision and goals matter the...
-
For Mothers: A Mother’s Day Message
This special Mother’s Day episode is a tribute to mothers everywhere. In it, I share one of the most sacred truths I know: that there may be no greater earthly symbol of Christlike love than a loving mother. From feeding, comforting, teaching, cleaning, sacrificing, and never giving up… mothers...
-
Self-Sabotage: Why You Keep Getting in Your Own Way
Why do we keep repeating the same unhealthy patterns… even when we say we want something better? In this episode, we take an honest look at self-sabotage—why it happens, where it comes from, and how it quietly keeps us stuck in fear, procrastination, broken patterns, and self-defeating behavior....
-
Boundary Problems: The 4 Types That Affect Your Life
If you struggle with boundaries… you’re not alone. In this episode, we break down the four most common boundary problems: Compliants (say yes when they should say no) Avoidants (push away the good) Controllers (ignore others’ boundaries) Non-responsive (don’t recognize others’ needs) As you…
more -
Master Your Thoughts: How to Stop Negative Thinking
What if your thoughts aren’t who you are? In this episode, I introduce a powerful concept called thought conversion—a simple but life-changing way to take control of your thinking. You’ll learn how to: Separate yourself from your thoughts Identify negative thought patterns Replace them with...
-
The Happiness Trap: Why Chasing Happiness Doesn’t Work
What if the reason you’re not happy… is because you’re trying to be? In this episode, we uncover one of the biggest misconceptions about happiness—and why chasing it often leads to more frustration, anxiety, and emptiness. You’ll learn: Why happiness isn’t meant to be constant The 4 biggest myths...
-
Finding Balance: Why Your Life Feels Off (And How to Fix It)
When life feels off… it usually is. In this episode, we break down what it really means to live a balanced life—and why so many of us struggle to maintain it. Using a simple but powerful framework, you’ll learn how to create balance in four key areas: Mental Physical Social Spiritual And one of…
more -
The Art of Letting Go (Why We Stay Stuck)
Why is it so hard to let go? Whether it’s a relationship, a past hurt, anger, fear, or even a habit… we often hold on to the very things that are keeping us stuck. In this episode, I share a powerful story that reveals: 👉 Why we struggle to let go 👉 What it’s really costing us👉 And how to...
-
How to Get Back Up When Life Knocks You Down
Life will hit you. Hard. In this episode, I share one of the most personal experiences of my life—and what it taught me about pain, heartbreak, and finding the strength to stand back up again. Using a powerful analogy from the Rocky/Creed story, we explore a truth most of us don’t want to hear:...
-
Spiritual But Not Religious? Let’s Talk About It
“I’m spiritual… but not religious.” It’s a phrase we hear all the time—but what does it really mean? In this episode, we take an honest and balanced look at: The purpose of spirituality The purpose of religion And why we might actually need both If you’ve ever felt hurt by religion… struggled…
more -
The Fundamentals That Fix Almost Everything in Your Life
Sometimes the biggest problems in life don’t need complex solutions… They need a return to the basics. In this episode, I break down the four fundamental habits that impact nearly every area of your life: Sleep Nutrition Hydration Exercise These aren’t exciting—but they are powerful. If you feel...
-
When People Pull You Down: What to Do When You Feel Stuck
Have you ever felt like someone in your life is pulling you in the wrong direction? Whether it’s a relationship, a friendship, family dynamics, or even a work environment—being “unequally yoked” can leave you feeling stuck, frustrated, and drained. In this episode, I share a powerful visual story...
We're indexing this podcast's transcripts for the first time — this can take a minute or two. We'll show results as soon as they're ready.
No matches for "" in this podcast's transcripts.
No topics indexed yet for this podcast.
Loading reviews...
ABOUT THIS SHOW
A short, daily faith-based podcast offering reflections, principles, and challenges to help you navigate life’s journey.
HOSTED BY
Josh Downs
CATEGORIES
Loading similar podcasts...
Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does THE DRIVE have?
THE DRIVE currently has 111 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is THE DRIVE about?
A short, daily faith-based podcast offering reflections, principles, and challenges to help you navigate life’s journey.
How often does THE DRIVE release new episodes?
THE DRIVE publishes regularly with 111 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to THE DRIVE?
You can listen to THE DRIVE on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts THE DRIVE?
THE DRIVE is created and hosted by Josh Downs.
URL copied to clipboard!