You Are The Man Podcast

What do you really want for your children?Success? Happiness? A good career? A strong marriage? A comfortable life?In this episode of the **You Are The Man Podcast**, we sit down with special guest **Dave Crooks** for a powerful conversation between three men about what we desire most for our children—and whether the way we are living today is actually leading them there.As fathers, it is easy to talk about what we hope our children become someday. But our hopes for tomorrow should shape the decisions we make today.If we want our children to love Jesus, they need to see us loving Jesus.If we want them to have strong marriages, they need to see us fight for ours.If we want them to live with integrity, courage, generosity, and purpose, those things have to be modeled in front of them.This is a faith-driven conversation about fatherhood, discipleship, legacy, and the responsibility God has given us to intentionally lead the next generation.The question isn't simply, **"What do I want for my children?"**The harder question is:**"Am I living today in a way that is leading them toward what I say I want for them tomorrow?"**Our children are watching. Our choices matter. And the legacy we leave is being built right now.**You Are The Man. Now live like it.**

What does it mean to live a life that actually matters?In this episode of the You Are The Man Podcast, we discuss John Piper’s powerful book Don’t Waste Your Life and the challenge it gives every believer: don’t spend your life chasing comfort, success, money, possessions, or the approval of people while missing the purpose God created you for.Our lives are short. Our time is limited. And one day, we will give an account for how we used what God entrusted to us.Jesus didn’t call us to a comfortable life—He called us to follow Him, deny ourselves, take up our cross, and live for something greater than ourselves.We talk about:• What it really means to “waste” your life• The danger of making comfort the goal• Living intentionally for the glory of God• Using your career, family, influence, and resources for Kingdom impact• Taking risks for Christ instead of always choosing what is safe• Finishing your life knowing you gave everything you had for what mattered most“Only one life, ’twill soon be past; only what’s done for Christ will last.”

Life gets busy. Work ramps up. School starts back. Practices, meetings, family responsibilities, church, projects, appointments—the calendar fills up fast.But in the middle of all that busyness, there is an important question we have to ask:Where does God fit into our schedule?Does He get our first?Does He get whatever is left at the end of the day?Or, if we’re not careful, does He get nothing at all?We often say God is the most important part of our lives, but our schedule may tell a different story. Because where God is in your schedule often speaks to where God is in your heart.In this episode of the You Are The Man Podcast, we talk about fighting against the tendency to give God our leftovers during busy seasons. We’ll discuss what it looks like to intentionally seek Him first, surrender our schedules, and remember that everything filling our calendar ultimately belongs to Him anyway.

Joining us for this episode is my wife, Amanda, as we reflect on what God did during our mission trip to Uganda.We walked into places where the needs were overwhelming and where hopelessness could be seen on the faces of men, women, and children. We did not have enough money to fix every problem. We could not heal every hurt or change every circumstance. But we could give them what we had—we could give them Jesus.In this episode, we share the moments that challenged us, the people who changed us, and how God reminded us that the greatest gift we can offer a hurting world is not always what they are asking for. Like Peter and John in Acts 3, we may not have silver or gold, but we can share the hope, love, and life found in Jesus Christ.Sometimes all we have to give is Jesus—and Jesus is enough.Christian men, fatherhood, discipleship, Spiritual leadership, podcast

In this special episode of the You Are The Man Podcast, we sit down with my son Colin and daughter Avalea to talk about what it means to follow in Dad’s footsteps on mission for God.Colin shares a powerful testimony of how God has worked in his life through missions, discipleship, and serving others. Avalea shares her excitement as she prepares for her first trip to Uganda, where she will serve at Benjamin House Ministries and meet her sponsored brothers and sister for the first time after years of praying, giving, and staying connected from across the world.This episode is about legacy, obedience, family, and the power of saying yes to God’s calling.You don’t have to have it all figured out. You just have to be willing to go where God sends you.

🎙️ NEW EPISODE | You Are The Man Podcast #75In a world that celebrates hustle, God calls us to something different—rest.Rest isn't being lazy. It's an act of faith. It's choosing to trust that God is still at work even when we aren't. When we slow down, we create space to enjoy our families, reflect on God's goodness, and cultivate a thankful heart.In this episode, we discuss:✅ Why rest is a gift from God—not something to feel guilty about✅ How gratitude changes our perspective✅ Practical ways men can lead their families well while slowing down✅ What Scripture teaches about Sabbath, trust, and thankfulnessIf you've been running on empty or struggling to step away from the constant pressure to do more, this episode is for you.🎧 Listen now and be reminded that sometimes the most productive thing you can do is simply rest in the Lord.#YouAreTheManPodcast #Episode75 #BiblicalManhood #RestInChrist #Thankfulness #FaithOverFear #LeadYourFamily #ChristianMen #Sabbath #Gratitude #WalkWithChrist

Episode 5: Fighting the Battle — What Parents Can Do NowWe've spent the last four episodes discussing the battle for our boys, the battle for our girls, and the spiritual war being waged against our children through a phone-based childhood. But eventually every parent asks the same question:"What do I do now?"In this final episode of our Anxious Generation series, we move from diagnosis to action. Drawing from Jonathan Haidt's practical recommendations, we discuss how parents can raise confident, capable, Christ-centered children in a culture driven by screens, fear, and overprotection.We'll explore:Why parents need to think more like gardeners than carpentersHow we've become overprotective in the real world and underprotective onlineThe importance of free play, responsibility, and independencePractical steps for smartphones, social media, and screen timeHow to help children develop confidence through challengeWhy responsibility, work, adventure, and community are essential for healthy developmentHow fathers can lead the way in raising resilient young men and womenMost importantly, we'll discuss why the answer to the anxious generation isn't simply fewer screens—it's helping our children experience a richer life than a screen could ever provide.Christian men, fatherhood, discipleship, Spiritual leadership, podcast

In this episode of You Are The Man Podcast, we continue looking at The Anxious Generation and the spiritual cost of a phone-based life.Phones are not just distracting our children — they are discipling them. They are shaping what they love, how they think, how quickly they judge, how little they forgive, how rarely they sit in silence, and how easily they miss the glory of God right in front of them.This episode unpacks how constant screen time pulls families away from sacred rhythms, real presence, stillness, self-denial, forgiveness, and awe. We look at how the phone-based life trains both parents and children to live focused on self, image, comparison, outrage, and noise — while God calls us upward into worship, wisdom, peace, and purpose.Parents, this is not just about reducing screen time. This is about taking back the spiritual leadership of our homes.It’s time to reclaim the dinner table, the quiet moments, the family walk, the car ride, the bedtime conversation, and the sacred space our children desperately need.Because our kids don’t just need less screen time.They need more sacred time. More presence. More prayer. More wonder. More Scripture. More Jesus.

This is Part 3 of our “The Battle for Our Children” series — The Battle for Our Girls.Our daughters are growing up in a world we never had to face. In this episode of You Are The Man Podcast, we sit down for a father-led discussion on the hidden ways social media is shaping our girls’ identity, friendships, mental health, purity, and sense of worth.Based on key points from The Anxious Generation, we unpack why social media appears to harm girls more deeply than boys—through constant comparison, perfectionism, relational aggression, emotional contagion, loneliness, sexual pressure, and online predation.This is not just a conversation about screen time. This is a conversation about formation.Social media promises connection, but too often delivers comparison. It offers belonging, but leaves many girls more anxious, isolated, and insecure. And as fathers, we cannot afford to be passive while algorithms, influencers, strangers, and culture compete for the hearts of our daughters.

Series: The Battle for Our Children – Part 2: The Battle for Our BoysWhat is a digital childhood doing to our sons?In this episode, we take a hard look at the reality many parents don’t want to face. Our boys are growing up in a world flooded with screens, instant access, and isolation—and it’s shaping them in ways we cannot ignore.We talk about the mental impact—rising anxiety, lack of focus, and emotional detachment.The spiritual impact—disconnection from truth, purpose, and identity in Christ.The relational impact—fewer real friendships, less brotherhood, more loneliness.And we don’t shy away from the truth…When we hand over a smartphone too early, we may be opening the door to pornography, addiction, and struggles they are not equipped to fight.This is a wake-up call.If we do nothing, what kind of men are we raising?If we stay silent, who is shaping our sons?It’s not too late—but it’s time to step in, lead boldly, and fight for our boys.🔥 Listen now. Share with a parent. Start the conversation.Christian men, fatherhood, discipleship, Spiritual leadership, podcast

The battle isn’t coming… it’s already here.On this episode of You Are The Man Podcast, we kick off a powerful new series: “The Battle for Our Children.” This is a real conversation about a real problem—one that’s quietly reshaping the hearts, minds, and futures of the next generation.Drawing from The Anxious Generation, The War on Children, and Anxious for Nothing, we take a hard look at what’s happening right in front of us:The phone epidemicThe “great rewiring” of our kids’ brainsThe explosion of anxiety, depression, and isolationOur children are more connected than ever… yet more alone than ever.So the question is simple—but heavy:Do we actually care enough to do something about it?Christian men, fatherhood, discipleship, Spiritual leadership, podcast

What does it really look like to answer the call of God—when it costs you everything comfortable?On this episode of You Are The Man Podcast, we sit down with Trav Kugler, a man who didn’t just talk about faith—he moved his entire life because of it.Trav shares what it meant to uproot his family and step into the unknown, leaving behind comfort to live on mission in Boston, Massachusetts. This isn’t just a story about relocation—it’s a story about obedience, sacrifice, and trusting God when the path doesn’t make sense.Christian men, fatherhood, discipleship, Spiritual leadership, podcast

The time is now—for our children.In this episode of You Are The Man Podcast, we sit down with special guest Lucas Vanderwarker to talk about the powerful impact of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) and why investing in the next generation has never been more important.We dive into the role FCA plays in shaping young athletes into strong leaders of faith, character, and integrity—and why sports can be one of the greatest mission fields we have. But this conversation goes deeper than the field.We challenge parents to step up and lead at home. Because no coach, no organization, and no program can replace what happens under your roof. Discipleship starts with mom and dad.

In this episode of the You Are The Man Podcast, Chuckie and Stephen sit down with Travis Agnew to talk about fatherhood, discipleship, and living with intentional purpose.Men often say family is their top priority, but our schedules tell the real story. Travis challenges fathers to examine where their time, energy, and leadership are really going.Your children are always watching.They are learning how to live, love, and follow Christ by watching you.The question every father must ask is simple:If your child mirrored your life… what kind of man would they become?No father leads perfectly.But the good news is this:It’s not too late to lead well.Start now.

Join us for our next episode with Trevor Guy as we discuss the call to step up and step out.Too many men are living on the sidelines—quiet, distracted, hesitant, waiting for the “right time.” In this episode of You Are The Man, we confront the giant of passivity head-on. Passivity kills purpose, silences leadership, and feeds doubt.It’s time to move from passive to productive. From hesitation to action. From silence to spiritual leadership.If you’ve been battling doubt, procrastination, or the feeling that you’re not enough—this episode will challenge you to step up, take responsibility, and lead with confidence at home, at work, and in your faith.

Have you ever wondered… am I on the right path?Join Chuckie and Stephen as they catch up after a few snow days and dive into a powerful episode of You Are The Man. Together, they unpack Proverbs 18:24 and the picture of God as a Father reaching out and saying, “Take My hand.”Like a child who trusts without hesitation, we’re invited to walk with Him — not ahead of Him. That kind of confidence is built in quiet time. Daily time in His Word and prayer is where clarity comes, trust grows, and direction is found.You don’t have to figure it out alone. Just take His hand.

Men, God does not call us to surrender once—He calls us to surrender every day. In this episode of You Are The Man Podcast, we talk about what daily surrender really looks like in our faith, our families, and our leadership. Join us for a powerful and honest conversation with our special guest and Man of the Week, Andrew Smith, as we challenge men to stop coasting, step out in obedience, and live fully submitted to God’s purpose. This is a call to real faith, real leadership, and real surrender.Christian men, fatherhood, discipleship, Spiritual leadership, podcast

Men are taught how to fight, how to grind, and how to provide—but no one prepares us for when the real battle starts in our own minds.On this episode, we sit down with special guest Corey Griffin to talk honestly about battling depression.Depression is real.And so is the fight.You are not alone. 💪Christian men, fatherhood, discipleship, Spiritual leadership, podcast

This year’s kickoff episode of You Are The Man Podcast is all about facing giants—the real ones men deal with every day: fear, anxiety, passivity, shame, isolation, temptation, and identity struggles.From 1 Samuel 17, Goliath didn’t call for an army.He called for a man.And that same question still echoes today.Will we stay silent…or will we step forward in faith?This year, we fight.This year, we lead.This year, we trust God.Christian men, fatherhood, discipleship, Spiritual leadership, podcast

You Are The Man Podcast — Final Episode of 2025 🎄Join us for our final episode of 2025 as we close out the year with purpose, gratitude, and hope. We’re joined by special guest Ryan McGaha for a powerful conversation about the gift of today—learning to live present, find contentment, and grow through life’s struggles.Ryan shares his journey of overcoming hardship to become a better husband and father, offering honest insight and encouragement for men who want to lead their families well, even in challenging seasons. Together, we reflect on what it truly means to celebrate Christmas—not just as a holiday, but as a mindset rooted in gratitude, faith, and intentional living.This episode is an invitation to slow down, reflect, and step into the new year with renewed purpose. Celebrate Christmas like never before and finish 2025 stronger than you started.🎧 Tune in and remember: today is the gift.

In this Christmas episode of the You Are The Man Podcast, we look at the rugged faith of John the Baptist and his powerful declaration:“He must increase, but I must decrease.” — John 3:30Drawing from John 1:6–13 and Luke 1:5–25, we explore what it means for a man to step out of the spotlight, surrender pride, and make room for Christ to lead his life and his home.This episode challenges men to decrease ego, control, and distraction—so prayer, humility, obedience, and presence can increase.Christmas reminds us that God lowered Himself to reach us.Real manhood begins when we do the same.You are the man—called, equipped, and invited to prepare the way.

Join us for our Thanksgiving episode. From rock bottom to redemption to radiating the Love of Christ — with special guest Dr Michael Latzka.Listen to powerful testimony of the Goodness of God!

Join us as we sit down with Tre Confer and discuss FCA, leadership, and becoming a new dad.Christian men, fatherhood, discipleship, Spiritual leadership, podcast

Join us as we sit down with Pastor DJ Horton for a conversation that goes beyond ministry—exploring what it means to be a husband, a father, and how to balance it all.

Have you ever been desperate to lead well? Talking Biblical manhood with our Man of the Week - Will Shuler.

Studies show that 75% of Christian men have battled with pornography. This week, hear a powerful testimony from our Man of the Week, Jon Adams, as he shares how God's grace led him to freedom and restoration.To learn more about fostering and to connect with Jon, checkout: https://sech.org/

A One-on-One Conversation with Special Guest Bucky RogersJoin me for an inspiring conversation with Bucky Rogers, founder of Benjamin House Ministries and the voice behind the audiobook "You Are The Man – Called According to His Purpose."In this episode, Bucky opens up about what it really means to answer God’s call—even when it takes you across the globe. He shares not only the blessings that come with obedience, but also the raw and honest challenges he’s faced along the way, including seasons of loneliness, battling sin, and walking through depression.

Challenge to Men - Step Up

As a leader of your home, especially a spiritual leader there is a desire to provide answers in tough times. In this episode we discuss the power of..."I don't know!"

Man of the Week - Jared Chastain

We did It! 50 Episodes.Listen as we discuss how we got here and the everyday struggles men face today.

We are back from Mission and on fire to share. Every man dies, but not every man truly lives.-William Wallace

Listen to one of the most powerful stories ever told from our hero...Samuel Muwanguzi

Man of the Week - Roy McGrawIn this episode you will hear a 93 year old man share stories of God's goodness and how he is still using him today.(No Video - Just Audio)

Man of the Week - Josh EskewIn this episode we discuss dealing with disappointment. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all of your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight. -Prov 3:5-6

Man of the Week - Coach Reggie ShawDiscussing Faith, Family, and a little Football.

Taking God on vacation and the importance of rest.

Man of the Week - Ronnie MarmolLearn more about Frontline Missions and the amazing work they do: https://frontlinemissions.info

Man of the Week - Gabriel O'SullivanCheckout Gabe's books and Podcast.Books:Thy Will Be Done: https://a.co/d/bJiai5sEvery Little Thing: https://a.co/d/hazDZ3YPodcast:https://youtube.com/@lostboystofoundfathers...

Man of the Week - Jcruz Gudino

Man of the week - Chris BennettAs mentioned on the Podcast as a great resource tool for quiet time. "Blue Letter Bible App" - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/blue-le...Checkout some amazing books by Chris's wife Ashley. They are available for purchase on Amazon:All Things - https://a.co/d/baEgzAjWithout Ceasing - https://a.co/d/49rv2ii

Man of the Week - John FravelIf you are looking for a Godly man to handle your real estate needs in Upstate SC. Reach out to our friend John Fravel at https://www.thefravelgroup.com/

Quick catch up on the You Are The Man Discipleship Study

Man of the Week - Chuck McGraw

Man of the Week - Jonathan Emery

Man of the Week - Mackenzie Turner

Man of the Week - Michael Joyce

Man of the Week - Russ Austin

Man of the Week - Kyle Simpson (ShineCo)

Man of the Week - Dave Crooks (Evans Training Center)