FirstAdam: A Transparent Podcast for Men

A lot of men expect victory to feel like arrival… but it often feels like isolation.. And here is what most guys don’t say out loud:
“I feel alone.”
“I don’t feel known.”
“I don’t feel connected to anyone in a real way.” So instead, we stay moving. We’re living in a time where connection is everywhere… but real connection is rare.
More access. More messages. More content. But less honesty. Less depth. Less “this is what’s actually going on with me.” Guys are showing up, performing, producing, and quietly drifting at the same time. And loneliness thrives in that gap. Not because there’s no one around, but because there’s no one really in. You can be surrounded and still feel invisible. You can be respected and still feel unknown. You can have conversations all day and still go home feeling like no one actually sees you. And the dangerous part? It doesn’t feel dramatic. It feels normal. It looks like staying busy.
It sounds like, “I’m good.” It hides behind routines, responsibilities, and just enough success to keep anyone from asking deeper questions. Loneliness doesn’t always break you all at once. It wears you down quietly. It numbs your expectations. It lowers your standards for connection. It convinces you that depth isn’t realistic anymore. So you stop reaching. You stop opening up. You stop expecting to be understood. And without realizing it, you start building a life where you’re needed, but not known Where you’re surrounded but still alone. And underneath it all, something starts to settle in. That’s the shift. That’s where it turns. Because what starts as a feeling of loneliness slowly becomes a mindset of isolation. And what becomes a mindset starts shaping everything. How you think: “No one really gets me.” How you show up: Keep it surface. Don’t go there. What you believe about yourself: “I guess this is just who I am.” What you expect from life: “Connection like that isn’t for me.” But here’s the truth most guys miss: Loneliness lies. And the longer you believe a lie….eventually it will become a truth.

Let’s be honest — every guy has thought about it at least once. Zombie apocalypse. 
Bug-out bags.
Bunkers.
Ammo stacked in the closet.
Freeze-dried food piled in the garage like the end of the world is scheduled for Tuesday. There’s something about the idea of being a prepper that hits a nerve in men. Maybe it’s the instinct to protect. Maybe it’s the thrill of being ready when everyone else isn’t. Or maybe it’s just the quiet satisfaction of knowing if everything falls apart… you won’t. But if we’re being real for a minute, most of us joke about being preppers while being completely unprepared for the storms that are already hitting our lives. The pressure in our marriages. The weight of responsibility. The battles in our minds. The moments when leadership is required and no one else is stepping up. And that’s when something hit me that flipped the whole idea of prepping on its head. The original prepper in history wasn’t some guy with a bunker. It was Noah. Think about it. Noah started building a massive ark when there were no clouds in the sky. No rain. No weather forecast. No evidence anything was coming. Just a warning from God… and the guts to believe it. For 120 years he built. Hammering boards. Stacking timber. Day after day after day. And the entire time people laughed. Can you imagine the conversations? “Hey Noah… what are you building?” “A boat.” “A boat? Why?” “Because it’s going to rain.” “…What’s rain?” Every swing of the hammer probably looked ridiculous to the people around him. Every year that passed without rain probably made him look more foolish. But Noah kept building. That kind of faith is savage. It’s the kind of faith that obeys before it sees proof. The kind of faith that prepares before the pressure shows up. The kind of faith that builds when everyone else thinks you’re crazy. And it forced me to ask a question I think every man should wrestle with: Am I building anything right now that will survive the storm… or am I just waiting for rain? Because most men wait for crisis before they start praying. We wait until the marriage is breaking before we lead spiritually. We wait until our kids are drifting before we step up as fathers. We wait until anxiety crushes us before we start seeking God. But real faith doesn’t start in the storm. Real faith starts in the quiet days when nothing looks urgent. That’s when Noah built the ark. The ark your family may need tomorrow… is built by the obedience you start today. Board by board.
Prayer by prayer.
 Decision by decision. Because storms are coming. Pressure is coming. Hard seasons are coming. Moments that test what you actually believe are coming. And when they do, you won’t suddenly build an ark overnight. You’ll step into the one you’ve already been building. The ark you’ll need tomorrow is built by the obedience you start today. So the question is simple: Are you building… or are you waiting for rain?

We live in a world obsessed with shortcuts.
Life hacks. Money hacks. Fitness hacks. Faster results with less effort.
And somewhere along the way, we started treating faith the same way. What’s the minimum effort I can give and still get the life I want?
What’s the least I can do and still call myself faithful? But faith was never meant to be hacked. And when we try, it leaves a lot of men confused, disconnected, burned out, or quietly drifting. Some of us go all in, carry the weight, exhaust ourselves, and eventually disappear. Others never step through the doors at all because church feels cold, heavy, or impossible to belong in unless you perform. In this episode, we get honest about why faith can feel either freezing cold or unbearably heavy. Why church can feel more like survival than sanctuary. And why so many men feel like they don’t quite fit, no matter how hard they try. This is a Survivor’s Guide to Church—not built on rules, pressure, or religious performance, but on anchors that actually hold when life gets hard: Belonging before behavior
 Consistency over perfection
 Freedom from performance
 Faith lived in real community Grace doesn’t need help. Jesus didn’t almost save us, He finished the work. Faith was never meant to feel like grinding through winter just to prove you’re committed. It was meant to feel like stepping into warmth, staying long enough to thaw, and realizing you don’t have to earn the fire. If faith has ever felt heavy, foreign, or exhausting, this conversation is for you.
If you’re tired of striving, performing, or pretending, this is your invitation. Stop hacking faith.
 Stop surviving church.
 Stop carrying what Jesus already finished.

Disqualified.
It’s a word loaded with finality declared unfit, ineligible, removed from participation. Not because you lacked passion or purpose, but because someone decided you didn’t meet their conditions. Disqualification isn’t always about a lack of skill, maturity, or effort. More often, it’s about a perceived deficiency imposed from the outside, by critics, authority figures, past failures, or even well-meaning voices that spoke too loudly or too soon. But here’s the tension: being disqualified by people is not the same as being disqualified by God.Human opinion may remove you from a position, but it does not have the authority to remove your calling. Rejection can sideline you socially, but it cannot cancel what God has already spoken over your life. Human judgment can’t cancel a divine calling. If you’ve ever stepped back, shut down, or second-guessed your calling because of criticism, rejection, or comparison, this is for you. If you’ve ever assumed “maybe I missed my chance” or “maybe I’m not the guy”, this is for you. Because the most dangerous disqualifications aren’t official. They’re internal. And can we remind you, God is not looking for permission from people to use you. So let us ask you, in what area of your life have you quietly disqualified yourself? What would change if God’s voice carried more weight than everyone else’s? Join us as we talk with Worship Leader David Jones as he speaks openly about feeling disqualified. Disqualification that comes from outside only has power if it’s believed on the inside.

No Resolutions New Year. I’ve got a serious question to start: can you think of a worse way to spend New Year’s Eve than standing in Times Square, freezing, shoulder-to-shoulder with strangers, possibly wearing a diaper, waiting for a ball to drop? Yeah… hard pass. That pretty much sums up how a lot of us feel about the new year. Everyone else looks excited, but inside we’re just tired. In this episode we skip the resolutions, and talk honestly about what men actually feel in January: pressure to perform, pressure to provide, and the quiet fear of repeating the same year. We get into why “trying harder” usually fails, why perfection makes men quit by February, and how isolation slowly kills momentum. This isn’t hype or self-help, it’s about renewing your mind, releasing last year, and stepping into who God actually made you to be. Do you want 2026 to be amazing. Take our advice. No New Year RESOLUTIONS.

Some of the world’s most dangerous jobs require unbelievable courage. Think about the people who scale 80-story buildings on steel beams the width of a shoebox. Or the loggers who work on slick hillsides with massive machinery and zero margin for error. Or the commercial fishermen in pitch-black conditions. Or the technicians who calmly walk up to an active explosive device and say, “Well… let’s see if we can keep this thing from blowing us all up.” These jobs make most of us say, “Nope. Hard pass. I’ll stay in my air-conditioned office, thank you.” But there’s another job that’s just as risky only this one doesn’t happen on a construction site or in the ocean. It happens in your soul. That job is praying the words of Psalm 139:23–24:
“Search me, O God… test me… reveal what’s in me… and lead me.” Because inviting God to search your heart is the spiritual equivalent of stepping into a dangerous work zone: • It takes honesty. • It takes courage. • It takes the willingness to face things you’ve been avoiding. • And it takes trusting God more than you trust your self-protection. Just like dangerous jobs expose your physical limits, this prayer exposes the parts of your inner life that are fragile, messy, or hidden: The fears you don’t talk about. The motives you try to justify. The blind spots everyone else sees. The pressure points that reveal what’s inside. The patterns you’ve learned to live with but shouldn’t. It’s not dangerous because God is out to harm you. It’s dangerous because God tells the truth you’ve trained yourself to ignore. And here’s the twist:
Just like the deadliest jobs in the world often provide the greatest impact, saving lives, building cities, creating resources, this dangerous prayer leads to the greatest transformation. Letting God “search you” is how you get free. It’s how you grow. It’s how you become the man God designed you to be. In the end, the most dangerous job isn’t out there in the world, it’s allowing God inside to “Search You”. Dangerous Prayers make Dangerous Men. 


Thanksgiving is days away. Turkeys are thawing, in-laws are landing, tensions are rising, and most men are already carrying more weight than they’ll ever admit out loud. Today, we’re dropping a truth bomb that could change your entire mindset before the holidays even hit. Your brain literally cannot hold gratitude and depression at the same time. Science confirms it. Scripture commands it. And life proves it. Join us as we dive into the real battles men face during the holidays: loneliness, financial pressure, broken relationships, grief, regret, and the weight of trying to hold everything together. If you want this Thanksgiving to be different, not heavier, not lonelier, not another holiday to survive then start with two things: one gratitude toward God, one gratitude toward someone in your life. It takes seconds but changes everything. Same life.
Same circumstances.
Different lens. Gratitude doesn’t delete your problems. It doesn’t magically fix the job, heal the relationship, refill the bank account, or erase the pressure. But it does change the man looking at them. Same life. Same weight. Same reality.
But when your lens changes
your strength changes.
Your mindset changes.
You change. And when a man changes,
everything around him eventually follows. Thanks....giving. New podcast out now. Take a listen.

When a marriage is breaking and divorce feels inevitable, a man can feel like his entire world is collapsing around him. The vows he once spoke with confidence now echo in his heart as painful reminders of what’s been lost. The home that was meant to be a refuge feels more like a war zone. Nights are restless, filled with questions that never get answered. Days are heavy, with conversations that end in silence, shouting, or walls built even higher. Every glance across the room carries unspoken tension, and every step forward feels like another step deeper into darkness. He tries everything he knows. Working harder, talking longer, even pretending the cracks aren’t as deep as they are. He fights to keep control, to fix what’s broken, to hold on with his bare hands. But the harder he grips, the more it slips away. The harder he tries, the more helpless he feels. His strength runs dry, his resolve shatters, and the weight of failure presses down on him like a crushing stone. And then, somewhere in the middle of the wreckage, he comes to a crossroads. He discovers the one thing he’s never truly tried: surrender. Not giving up, but giving over. In his lowest moment, he falls to his knees, finally admitting what he’s been afraid to say...he can’t do this on his own. He hands his pain, his anger, and his shattered dreams to Jesus. And in that surrender, something unexpected happens. He doesn’t find weakness, he finds strength to stand when everything around him is falling apart. He doesn’t find bitterness, he finds grace to forgive and to be forgiven. He doesn’t find despair, he finds hope. Hope that even when a marriage ends, Christ’s love never does. Hope that even in brokenness, God can bring beauty. Hope that surrender is not the end of his story, but the beginning of a new one. On this episode, we invite a friend to share his story of what it looks like to surrender in the middle of pain. Not after the storm has passed, not when everything is neatly resolved, but right in the thick of it, when the wounds are fresh, when the questions are loud, and when the outcome is still uncertain. His story reminds us that surrender isn’t about waiting until life makes sense; it’s about choosing to trust Jesus when nothing does. It’s about laying down pride, fear, and control, and finding that even in the valley, God is present, God is faithful, and God is working.

Every man knows the ritual. You’re headed out the door, running late, feeling heroic until it happens. Your keys? Gone. Not misplaced… vanished. Like they entered a witness protection program for car accessories. You check the usual places: the counter, the pants from yesterday, the truck cupholder, your buddy’s couch. Nothing. So you enter “search mode.” Shirt comes off for no reason. You’re crawling under furniture like it’s Navy SEAL training. You question your dog. Accuse your kids. Stare down your wife with suspicion like, “Did you move them?” Eventually, you check the fridge, your boot, and yes, even the toilet tank. And just when you’ve given up and accepted a life of Uber rides… boom. There they are. Right where you left them. In your hand. Or your pocket. Or hanging from the door you walked past 12 times. Treasure hunting is wired into the soul of a man. There’s something deep within us that longs to search, to discover, to uncover what’s hidden and claim it as our own. It’s why we’re drawn to adventure, purpose, and even risk. But in life, not all treasure shines. The world offers fool’s gold, money, status, and comfort that promise fulfillment but leave us empty. Real treasure is found when we seek after the things of God: wisdom, truth, purpose, and eternal reward. We’re talking about the real hunt the one every man is on. The search for purpose, for meaning, for that one thing that’s worth giving your life to. Maybe it’s buried under bills, burnout, or just the noise of everyday life. But it’s there. So what are you hunting for? Have you found it yet?

Let’s be honest, fellas… The "Sears" Catalog. That's where it started. Flipping through the pages and then I came to the section advertising women in bras and panties. I was hooked. (you can't tell me you didn't look at that catalog also :) ) We talk a big game. We serve. We lead. We pray. 
But underneath all that… there’s a secret that no one’s really talking about: PORN. Yeah, we said porn — because pretending it’s not a problem hasn’t helped anyone. Porn is a billion-dollar beast that’s devouring men, wrecking marriages, and keeping people locked in cycles of guilt, isolation, and fake freedom. It’s the addiction no one sees, the sin nobody wants to admit but it’s everywhere. It’s in our men’s groups. It’s in our marriages. And it’s tearing men apart from the inside out quietly, secretly. It’s rewiring brains, suffocating purpose, and keeping good men stuck in shame, secrecy, and isolation. It’s the drug no one wants to admit they’re hooked on.
 It’s the secret battle that’s stealing our strength, numbing our souls, and quietly wrecking everything we care about — our marriages, our minds, our manhood, and our walk with God. This episode? We’re done hiding. We’re dragging this thing into the light where it loses its power. No shame. No fake masks. Real stories, and the truth that Jesus came to set men free, not just forgiven, but free. We’re talking about why so many men are hooked, what it’s really doing beneath the surface, and how you can start fighting back with honesty, brotherhood, and the power of God. Join us as we invite a guest to share his journey about coming out from hiding. Romans 12:2 "Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.

Alright fellas, welcome to Part 2 of letting our wives take the mic and speak truth into what it really means to be a father. We're cutting through the noise and getting straight to the heart of it: what do wives actually want from us, not just as husbands, but as dads? This isn’t about being the guy who occasionally shows up. It’s about being the kind of father who earns respect at home, builds real trust with his kids, and makes his wife feel like she’s not parenting solo. No cape required. Just consistency, presence, and purpose. We’re not guessing here, we’ve handed the mic to our wives. What do they wish we’d do more of? What drives them crazy? What actually helps them feel supported? We’ll dive into emotional leadership, daily effort, and the big difference between saying “I’ve got this” and actually backing it up with action. No guilt trips, just real talk, real growth, and a chance to get better at one of the most important jobs you’ll ever have. Let’s get into it.

It's FatHER's Day. Let’s be real: we all want to be good dads. But just showing up? That’s not enough. Our wives—your wife—wants you to lead, protect, and serve the family like the man God’s called you to be. And that means stepping up, being present, and leading with strength, wisdom, and a whole lot of humility. It's no secret that the role of a dad is one of the most important in a family. But sometimes, the expectations and the desires of a wife in this area aren’t always clear—or they get lost in the busyness of life. So we decided to ask our wives to join us as we are talking about how husbands can show up as the dads their wives need, not just the dads their kids want. A FirstAdam first, we invited our wives to take over the podcast and share about what they want in a father for the kids. Whether it’s leading in prayer, being present, or just being a little less “fix-it” and a little more “listen.” We're talking about the things that matter to your wife, and how you can be the kind of dad that honors God and serves your family well. Today, we’re diving into the stuff that matters: Are you leading your family spiritually, taking responsibility, and being the kind of father your wife can count on? Spoiler alert: it’s not about being perfect but present.

The qualities of a villain...Which Villain do you play? Control Freak – Wants to dominate conversations, relationships, environments. Emotionally Withholding – Uses silence, apathy, or detachment as weapons. Toxic Stoicism – Refuses to feel or express emotion; mocks others who do. Power-Hungry – Will do anything (lie, cheat, step on others) to climb the ladder. Entitlement – Believes the world owes him success, love, sex, or admiration. Manipulative – Twists the truth and uses others to achieve their goals. Narcissistic – Obsessed with their own power, image, or greatness. Insecure – Deep-rooted fears masked by aggression or pride. Believes they’re right – Justifies evil with twisted logic. Every man wants to be the hero. But what happens when the biggest battle isn’t out there—it’s inside? In this episode, we’re talking about the anti-hero—not the polished, perfect guy, but the one who’s rough around the edges, wrestling with his own shadow. Let’s be real—sometimes we sabotage our own story. The part of us that plays it safe when we should step up. The part that hides behind sarcasm, success, or silence. The part that sabotages our own relationships, faith, and future. We talk a lot about heroes—but what if the person holding us back most... is us? Pride, fear, anger, addiction, passivity... they sneak in and turn us into the villain in our own lives, relationships, and faith. But here’s the good news: even anti-heroes can be redeemed. God isn’t looking for flawless men—He’s calling honest ones. Men who will face their failures, take responsibility, and rise anyway. If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and thought, “I’m the problem,”—you’re not alone. This episode is your invitation to step out of the shadows and back into life.

You know exactly what “tapping out” looks like. It’s when a fighter hits the mat or taps their opponent, signaling they’re done. No more. They’ve reached their limit, and if they keep going, they’ll break. But let me ask you: Would you have blamed Jesus for tapping out? I mean, think about it—He went through more than we could ever imagine. Because let’s be honest—He could have. When the weight of the cross became unbearable… He could’ve said, “I’m done.” When betrayal cut deep, He could’ve quit. When they beat Him, mocked Him, and the crowd turned their back on Him—He could’ve walked away. And who would have blamed Him? But here’s the thing—this isn’t about weakness. It’s not about failure. It’s about reaching the edge. That moment when you’ve carried more than you should, and your body, your mind, your soul finally says, “Enough.” Every man has been there. How many of us have whispered to ourselves, “I’m done.” But here’s where it changes—Jesus didn’t say “I am finished.” He said, “It is finished.” There’s a huge difference. “It is finished” = Purpose fulfilled. Power in the completion. “I am finished” = A person overwhelmed, a cry for help or release. One is a statement of triumph. The other is a moment of surrender. Too many men are walking around, silently carrying the weight of the world, whispering, “I’m finished.” “I can’t keep going.” “I have nothing left.” But listen—when Jesus hung on that cross and declared “It is finished,” He wasn’t giving up. It wasn’t a cry of defeat. It was a shout of victory. It wasn’t weakness; it was completion. Jesus didn’t tap out. He followed through. He didn’t say, “I am finished”— because He wasn’t. And neither are you. You may feel tired. You may feel broken. You may even feel like tapping out. But when you’re at the edge, don’t declare “I am finished.” Instead, remember: What Jesus finished on the cross means you don’t have to live defeated. You might feel empty, but you are not done. You might feel wounded, but you are not worthless. You might feel tired, but in Christ, you are still standing. Tetelestai… IT IS FINISHED.

Alright, fellas—imagine this. You fire up your favorite game, dive into a new world, and boom—there they are: the NPCs. The shopkeeper trying to sell you some overpriced gear, the quest giver spitting out the same old scripted lines, the random townsfolk just cluttering up the place, and the linemen who won’t let you play. You go through the motions, grab what you need, and keep moving—because, honestly, they’re just background noise in your story. But here’s the kicker: a lot of guys are treating their real lives the same way. Treating people—friends, coworkers, even potential partners—like NPCs instead of real, complex individuals. Think about it—ever had a day where you barely notice the people around you? The barista handing you your coffee, the guy working the front desk at your gym, the coworkers you don’t bother to truly engage with? Your wife and kids? Yeah, that one stings a bit. It’s like they’re just there to play a role—nothing more, nothing less. It’s as if their only purpose is to serve you, not as people with their own stories, struggles, and goals. And here’s the thing—many guys fall into this without even realizing it. But here’s the hard truth—treating people like NPCs? It has real consequences. It isolates you. If all you see are tools or background characters, you miss out on the chance for real, meaningful relationships. Sure, you might be crushing it in your career, fitness, or side hustles—but are you actually connecting with anyone? The more you treat people like they’re just filling a role in your life, the harder it becomes to build real bonds. On this episode, we’re diving into why the NPC mindset happens, how it messes with your relationships, and most importantly—how to break out of it. We’ll explore how to shift from a “What can I get from this person?” mentality to a “How can I connect with this person?” mindset. It might seem small, but that switch? It changes everything.

I know what you’re thinking: “Why should I waste my time listening to a podcast about waiting? I’ve got things to do!” And trust me, I get it. As guys, we’re built to fix, hustle, and get things done. But what happens when God says, “Not yet”? Suddenly, we find ourselves in the most uncomfortable of places—waiting. How many of us wait for answers, for clarity, and sometimes for that thing we’re hoping and praying for, even though we’d rather be doing anything else. As men, we’re often taught to be the ones who act, who take charge, and who make things happen. Waiting can feel like a waste of time or even a sign of weakness. But what if waiting isn’t just something we have to endure? What if it’s a powerful season of growth, refinement, and preparation? You see when it comes to God’s timing, suddenly we’re all in the waiting room, hoping that “divine intervention” happens on our schedule. Spoiler alert: it usually doesn’t. In this episode, we’re going to be honest about what it really means to wait on God. Why does it often feel like He’s taking His sweet time? How can we stay faithful when the answer feels slow in coming? And, maybe most importantly, how do we find peace in the waiting. So what are you waiting on God for....maybe He is waiting on you...

Every man has a Canaan. Maybe it’s an addiction. A toxic habit. A relationship that should have ended years ago. An anger that simmers just below the surface, waiting for the right moment to explode. The problem is, we don’t always recognize these things for what they are. Or worse—we recognize them, but we let them live. If you know the story, Canaan was the cursed grandson of Noah. But today, we’re not just talking about biblical history. We’re talking about the Canaan that exists in our lives—those things that should have been eliminated, cut off, or confronted, but were allowed to live and grow. And when we don’t kill Canaan, Canaan comes back to kill us. Every time we refuse to kill what’s killing us, we pay a price. What price are you paying?

When we think of an inauguration, we often picture grand ceremonies and political transitions—but there’s another kind of inauguration that shapes who we are as men. Life’s milestones—whether it's becoming a father, stepping into a new career, or embracing a new chapter of personal growth—each come with their own “inaugurations.” These moments of transformation are as powerful as they are pivotal, marking shifts in identity, responsibility, and purpose. An inauguration can also be defined as a shift in power or authority. For men, it’s called the Inauguration of Restoration. When we give power and authority back to God. That’s the promise found in Isaiah 61:7. "Instead of your shame you will receive a double portion, and instead of disgrace you will rejoice in your inheritance; and so you will inherit a double portion in your land, and everlasting joy will be yours." This verse speaks directly to those who have experienced shame, disgrace, and suffering. The promise here is of restoration—where those who have endured humiliation or hardship will be honored and elevated. "Instead of your shame, you will receive a double portion" indicates a reversal of fortunes, where past suffering will be replaced with abundance and blessing. God's heart is to bless His people with more than they can imagine, offering healing, restoration, and an everlasting joy that comes from His presence. For anyone who feels that life has left them with nothing but disgrace, it is a reminder that God is in the business of redemption—and His restoration will far exceed the original losses. Perhaps this is the year for your Inauguration of Restoration.

The rearview mirror isn’t just a tool for checking what's behind you; it’s a way to measure distance, to see how far you’ve traveled. Every glance is a reminder of battles fought, roads you’ve conquered, and mistakes made along the way. You see the scars, the victories, and the quiet moments of growth that no one else saw. Yet, there’s something unspoken about looking back that’s deeper than just memories—it’s about checking the road you’ve traveled for signs of what’s next. Listen, it’s okay to look back for a moment. The past is a part of you. But it doesn’t get to decide where you go from here. You know there are many times I have had to look back in order to move forward. I need to be reminded of God’s faithfulness to have the strength and the courage to face the road ahead. Before we make New Year’s resolutions, perhaps we need to look in the rearview mirror of this past year to see where we have had victories and where God was so gracious. You see, New Year's resolutions for men aren’t just about hitting the gym or ticking off the usual list of “self-improvements.” New Year’s resolutions carry a weight that goes beyond self-improvement—they’re an opportunity to realign, to step into a year with purpose that echoes the teachings of Christ. It’s not just about setting goals, but about setting the right ones: to love deeper, serve more faithfully, and lead with humility. This year, it’s about growth, yes, but not the kind you can measure in pounds or numbers alone. It’s about becoming the man you are designed to be—the one who knows when to hustle and when to rest, when to speak up and when to listen, when to take risks, and when to double down on what matters. It’s not about perfection, but progress—pushing forward with eyes open to the journey God has for you. So I want to encourage you, before you move forward, look back. See the victories of last year and let them be the symbol of God’s work in you. God always accomplishes his Resolutions. Remember, “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6

Welcome to "Why You Should Put Up Christmas Lights", the podcast where we talk about the real reason every man should get involved in decking out the house for the holidays. You might be thinking, “It’s just lights, right?” But trust us, there’s more to it than meets the eye. From boosting your home’s curb appeal to creating unforgettable memories with your family, putting up Christmas lights is about more than just decoration—it’s about tradition, memories, and setting the tone for a legendary holiday season. In this show, we’re diving into the practical, emotional, and even scientific reasons why putting up those twinkling lights is more than just a holiday chore. From boosting your mood to enhancing your home’s curb appeal, we’ll break down why spending a few hours untangling wires and hanging lights can be one of the best things you do this season. So, grab a cold drink, fire up those extension cords, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to light up your holidays in more ways than one. Welcome to "Why You Should Put Up Christmas Lights"—your guide to making this holiday season shine All kidding aside, join us this week for our annual Christmas episode as we talk about Jesus’ saying in     John 8:12 - Jesus says, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life" Let me ask you a question. Are your lights up?

What if the impossible was just the beginning? Every breakthrough, every miracle, starts with a challenge that’s considered out of reach. Miracles are moments that transcend our understanding of the world, when the impossible becomes possible, and the extraordinary interrupts the ordinary.  They are experiences that defy logic and expectation, leaving us in awe of something greater than ourselves. Miracles aren't just stories from the past—they're moments of power, possibility, and purpose that can shape our lives.  The problem is that we often forget the miracles that God has done in the past.  Maybe we need to “return to Cana”.    Perhaps you need to revisit a moment of transformation or renewal in your life. Just as the miracle of turning water into wine was a transformative event, returning to Cana might represent a personal journey of reclaiming or rediscovering a moment of hope, growth, or miraculous change. It’s about revisiting a place or moment in time where something profound or life-changing happened.   Returning to Cana means revisiting a place of growth, understanding, or healing, where a new perspective or miracle might unfold. It's about returning to the source and finding meaning and clarity in what was once familiar, seeing it with new eyes, and experiencing God again. Perhaps there is a place in your life where you need to remember who God is again.  Join us this episode as we encourage you to….come again…

Remember that song “Cats in the Cradle” by Harry Chapin? My child arrived just the other day He came to the world in the usual way But there were planes to catch, and bills to pay He learned to walk while I was away I am sure as you read this you are now singing that song. And you will be all day now. (Got ya). That song is iconic as it talks about looking back on life with regrets. Looking back with the "I wish I would have, but..." How many of us do that? You can’t tell me you don’t have one of these regrets: Not Pursuing Dreams: Many wish they had followed their passions or taken risks in their careers or hobbies. Neglecting Relationships: Regretting time spent away from family and friends, or not prioritizing important relationships. Not Taking Care of Health: Wishing they had maintained better physical and mental health habits. Missing Opportunities: Regretting not seizing opportunities. Holding Grudges: Wishing they had let go of conflicts or mended broken relationships. Living in Fear: Regretting letting fear hold them back from trying new things or taking chances. Poor Financial Decisions: Wishing they had managed money better, saved more, or avoided debt. Not Being Present: Regretting not enjoying or appreciating the moment, often due to distractions. So what do we do with them? How many of us say, “I wish I would have”?  For men, handling regret means recognizing and reflecting on past choices without letting them weigh us down. It’s about learning from experiences and using those lessons to make better decisions in the future. Embracing vulnerability can help in processing feelings and building stronger relationships. Forgiving ourselves for past mistakes is essential to moving forward. Ultimately, transforming regret into growth can lead to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.  Join us this episode as we talk about the F.A.C.T.S of dealing with the “but..” in life. FYI. F.A.C.T. Find Admit Confess Talk

Driving down a mountain is never an easy trip. The weight of the load feels more pronounced, pulling the vehicle forward with a force that can quickly escalate. The driver must remain vigilant. The downhill journey is always tough. Coming down from a mountaintop experience can be both exhilarating and challenging. At the peak, everything feels clear and vibrant—the air is fresh, perspectives shift, and you often find yourself filled with inspiration and insight. It’s a moment of triumph, a place where clarity reigns, and life’s complexities seem manageable. But as you begin the descent, the thrill starts to fade, and the challenges of everyday life come rushing back. It’s like the weight of the world settles back onto your shoulders. You might feel a mix of emotions—excitement from what you experienced, but also a hint of disorientation as you try to find your footing again. The insights you gained can feel distant, and it can be tough to figure out how to bring that newfound clarity into your daily routine. Join us on this episode as we discuss how to deal with the downhill drive. When the noise of life continues how do you still maintain spiritual fervency. The downhill doesn’t have to be the end of the journey but just the beginning.

I was recently out in the forest and looked at my phone and it said, "No Service". I hate it when my phone shows "No Service" or "Searching". What an inconvenience and disruption, to be disconnected. I mean come on...we have Elon Musk now...how come we can't get cell service everywhere? But as I sat there with my phone "disconnected", it got me thinking about what it means for a man to be disconnected. When guys feel like they’re “disconnected in life,” it usually means they’re feeling out of touch or detached from what’s happening around them. It might look like feeling lost or not having a clear sense of direction or purpose, making life feel aimless or confusing. It might feel like you're not connecting with your own emotions or with the people around you. Disconnected guys might feel lonely or cut off from friends and family, and when that happens we take our ball and go home. We stop engaging or showing up in life, feeling like we don’t belong. Which leads to a lack of engagement in daily responsibilities, making everything seem less meaningful. But even worse than that is when guys disconnect from self. We begin to struggle to understand our own needs, desires, or identity, feeling unsure about who we are or what we want. We struggle to find meaningful connections or purpose. Ya. maybe that's what you feel right now. Here's the thing. When I was in the woods with a disconnected phone showing "no service", I noticed something else. Next to the "no service" display was another display that said "SOS". Something in my phone knew where to get help. Listen men, God is saying to those who are disconnected there is an "SOS" available for you. God is waiting to help you connect again. John 15:5 "I am the vine; you are the branches. If you connect to me and I will connect to you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing". Join us on this episode as we deal with the disconnected man.

I used to love to play the video game Mike Tyson punch out. What a great storyline. You played as "Little Mac". He’s a young, aspiring boxer trying to make a name for himself. Your opponents were a list of characters that were all unique. Come on you remember them. Glass Joe – The first opponent, known for his poor record and easy-to-defeat style. He’s a French boxer with a glass jaw. Von Kaiser – A German boxer who is slightly more challenging than Glass Joe but still relatively easy to beat. Piston Honda – A Japanese boxer with a powerful punch and a distinctive, fast-paced fighting style. Don Flamenco – A Spanish boxer with a flamboyant style and a tendency to taunt his opponents. King Hippo – A large, Hawaiian boxer with a unique strategy and a notable weak spot. Great Tiger – An Indian boxer who uses mystical illusions, including disappearing and reappearing during the fight. Bald Bull – A Turkish boxer known for his powerful Bull Charge attack. Soda Popinski – A Russian boxer with a penchant for drinking soda and a strong punch. Mr. Sandman – A tough, heavy-hitting boxer known for his powerful moves and his intimidating presence. Bring back memories? But then after you defeated all of them, you finally got to fight Mike Tyson. The final and most challenging opponent, he’s known for his incredibly fast and powerful punches. To beat him you had to learn his patterns. In case you forgot, here is how to do it. Dodge Early: In the first 90 seconds, focus on dodging Tyson’s attacks. Use the left and right dodges to avoid his punches. Wait for Openings: After dodging his punches, look for openings to land your own punches. Land Star Punches: As you successfully dodge and counterattack, you’ll earn stars. Use these stars for powerful punches. Manage Your Stamina: While dodging Tyson’s attacks, make sure not to get too aggressive and take unnecessary hits. Replay the Fight: The more you practice, the better you’ll become at reading Tyson’s patterns and dodging his punches. Finally, you win. But the problem was as soon as you beat Tyson, the game wasn't fun anymore. What took so long to figure out was now easy, and you could beat him every time. The challenge was gone. Isn't that how life is for so many men? The challenge is gone and you feel like you are playing them same level every day. Yet there is a passage in which Jesus asks a blind man in Luke 18 "What do you want me to do for you?". Basically, Jesus is asking the man, "What do you really want in life?". That's a tough question for men to answer. Join us on this episode as we have a very messy conversation about what dreams we really have as Jesus is calling us to be a "Dreamcaster" again.

So what's the score? Who is winning? Are you losing? How often do you keep a mental scorecard to track and evaluate how you stack up against others? Men are great at that. I remember when I was a little kid comparing my bike to my friend's bike and how I was super proud mine was better. It was my scoreboard and I was winning. Later on in life, the items on my scoreboard changed but the need to keep track and winning was the same. We keep score, don't we? The scoreboard now keeps track of my success in my career, the size of my house or type of car, and the vacations I post on Facebook. We try to run the scoreboard up to look good. But why is it that men keep score? We are taught from an early age that winning matters. As Ricky Bobby said, "If you're not first, you're last". But what has all this striving to keep score and measure up gotten men? It has only created an unrest, weary, feeling behind, worthless identity. This is not what God intended. God doesn't keep score. So why are you? Join us on this episode as we invite Dr. Gene James to discuss the idea of why men keep score even though winning only comes through a relationship with Jesus. I just made a decision a long time ago: I'm not going to be defined by a scoreboard. - Dabo Swinney

WWJV. “Who would Jesus vote”. Have you ever wondered who Jesus would vote for? Would he cast his ballot red or blue? What we do know is that people are on one side or the other of the political spectrum, including Christians, and many are very vocal about who they believe should run our country. You saw it this past week as the events of an attempted assassination of a candidate polarized our nation. So who would Jesus vote for? But the question shouldn’t be who Jesus would vote for, the question should be: Who is Jesus for in this election? What would His reaction be to all of this division? I wonder if he would quote 2 Cor. 12:20 to us “I fear that there may be discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, slander, gossip, arrogance and disorder.” That seems to be the tone today in our political climate. Even worse that seems to be the tone in our Christian climate. But we are called to a different standard as Christian Men. We have a responsibility when it comes to politics. In this episode, we discuss our response and responsibility. Join us as we find out exactly “Who Would Jesus Vote” for.

Question: What will others inherit from you? When we think about getting an inheritance we think it usually means getting stuff from someone who passed away. It could be money or property, But it's not just about getting things; it's also about getting responsibilities or qualities from that person. So what qualities are you giving to those around you? Sometimes, inheritance goes beyond stuff—it's about the victories and stories that get passed down. It's a big part of how we connect the past with our lives now and what we might pass on to the future. In the Bible, before David was a King, he was a boy in the field. David's bravery was no joke—he took on lions and bears like it was just another day at the office. Imagine this kid, out there in the wild, protecting his flock of sheep. Lions, known for their strength and ferocity, and bears, with their sheer size and power—David faced them head-on, with a courage that most grown men would envy. It wasn't just about bravery; it was about his determination to protect what was his, showing that even in the face of danger, he wouldn't back down. That's the kind of grit that made David more than just a shepherd boy—he was a legend in the making, which gave him the confidence to take down giants. He left an inheritance of victory. What victories in life are you leaving as an inheritance? Join us in this episode as we talk about this. The fact is, you are leaving something behind. What will it be?

What do you call a pig that practices karate? A pork chop. All dads have terrible jokes. Dad jokes are characterized by their simple, pun-based humor and often groan-inducing punchlines. But honestly being a father can be no joke. I see guys wearing "BEST DAD EVER" shirts and I wonder what it really means to be the best dad because honestly many days I feel like I failed as a father. Being a father encompasses a wide range of roles, responsibilities, and emotions. It means more than just a biological connection; it involves nurturing, guiding, and supporting. But how do you do that well? Often we are left as fathers trying to figure it out as we go. There are countless fathers who if they were honest, feel like they have failed. There are no classes in school about being a father. It's not like guys sit around discussing fathering. It's just something we have to learn along the way. Perhaps your dad was a great role model, but the more men we talk to, we hear the exact opposite. Fathers have failed. Join us in this episode as we talk about the characteristics of a Godly father. We offer practical ways that we can develop the character that God desires for fathers. I am reminded of a quote “Every father should remember one day his son will follow his example, not his advice.” –Charles Kettering Join in the conversation as we honor Fathers.

How many people have ever heard of Eddie Collins? Not someone most people are familiar with. But his stats are amazing. He was committed to the game. Collins ranks 11th in the major leagues for most hits of all time with 3,315, and 7th for most stolen bases of all time with 745. He is one of five players to steal six bases in a game, and the only person to do so twice. To date, Collins is the only major league player to play for two teams for at least 12 seasons each. Upon his retirement, he ranked second in major league history in career games (2,826), walks (1,499) and stolen bases (744), third in runs scored (1,821), fourth in hits (3,315) and at bats (9,949), sixth in on-base percentage (.424), and eighth in total bases (4,268); he was also fourth in AL history in triples (187). But Eddie Collins holds an incredible record that was established in 1930. He has held this record for almost 100 years. Eddie holds the record for the most sacrifice bunts in the history of baseball. 512 sacrifice bunts. No one has even come close to breaking it. Eddie knew something that most men don't. There is victory when you are committed to sacrifice. But you have to be committed to it. Eddie was committed to sacrifice. As a matter of fact, he won 6 World Series championships. Let me ask you a simple question. Do you commit or do you quit? Most men look for the easy way out when things get hard. Marriage is tough...divorce. Kids a hard...withdraw. Work is rough...look for a new job. Relationships are painful..isolate. Church is truthful... find something else that's not so I feel better. The idea of sacrifice and commitment is a foreign concept in a "ME" culture. Especially when things get hard. In this episode, we talk about "5 things to do" if you don't want to be committed to something. Join us as we talk about what it means to handle hard better through a commitment to sacrifice.

You have to learn to pace yourself Pressure You're just like everybody else Pressure You've only had to run so far, So good But you will come to a place Where the only thing you feel Are loaded guns in your face And you'll have to deal with Pressure.....Billy Joel What is pressure: it's a force exerted on or against an object. Every man feels this. Pressure robs us of life. There is a simple question for every man has to ask. How does the pressure of keeping it all going affect me. Join us for Part 2 of Pressure. We are joined by a couple of guests and we listen to a story of a pastor who under the pressure of life, found himself sitting at a counter with a gun in his hand ready to escape the PRESSURE. Hear the story and DISCOVER THE LIE that men must carry it all. Every man feels it, the question is, how do you deal with it? Listen in on how a man dealt with it. What did he learn and what is still left to learn. This is a very honest and open conversation on a topic that every man faces. And if we are honest, all men have thought about what it would like to be gone or done. But when you allow God to use your weakness, something strong comes from it. Don't ask for help You're all alone Pressure You'll have to answer To your own Pressure

Pressure pushin' down on me Pressin' down on you, no man ask for Under pressure that brings a building down. - Davie Bowie & Queen  What is pressure: it's a force exerted on or against an object.   Every man feels this. Pressure robs us of life.  There is a simple question for every man has to ask.  How does the pressure of keeping it all going affect me.   Pressure can mess with the psychology of a man. Check out the symptoms:   Overwhelmed:  How many of us feel swamped by the responsibilities at hand, feeling like there’s too much to handle within too little time? Anxiety: How many men are constantly worried about potential outcomes, often anticipating negative results? Stress: Pressure affects our mood and behavior. Many men display irritability, mood swings, or anger. Fear of Failure: We suffer from the dread of not meeting expectations—whether one's own or those of others. So how do we deal with the pressure we face as men? Withdrawal: We withdraw from social interactions and find ourselves alone. Procrastination: Ironically, the feeling of pressure leads to procrastination as a way of avoiding the stress of dealing with the issues.  On this episode, we are joined by a couple of guests and we listen to a story of a pastor who under the pressure of life, found himself sitting at a counter with a gun in his hand ready to escape the PRESSURE.  Hear the story and DISCOVER THE LIE that men must carry it all.   Every man feels it, the question is, how do you deal with it?

So I asked ChatGPT (AI) to answer this question: Tell me about Andrew Milich. The response: As of my last update in December 2023, there's no widely recognized public figure named Andrew Milich in mainstream media, politics, sports, or other notable fields that I have information on. It's possible that Andrew Milich could be a private individual or someone notable in a more niche or local context. If you can provide more details or specify the field or context in which Andrew Milich is known, I might be able to help you better or suggest where you could find relevant information. Basically, what I came to understand by this is that I am unknown. To be honest, most men like to be unknown. I like to be unknown. But what we have come to understand is the more you are known the more you can influence because our stories are windows into who we are and people can relate to them. On this episode, we switch it up a bit. We call it the "get to know me more" episode. Sometimes knowing someone's story helps understand who they are and why they think or believe the way they do. So join us as JB asks me some hard questions about my life. It is my prayer and hope that my life will be an encouragement to you. Listen in and get to know us. And with that being said....Hello, My Name is Andy.

To whom it may concern: It's important for me to be upfront and honest with you right now. I need some space and time to myself. I ask that you respect my solitude and give me some distance. I kindly ask that you refrain from contacting me or attempting to engage with me. I do not think you can relate to how I am feeling. You just don't understand. It's better just to keep things at surface conversations. So please, respectfully, STAY AWAY. Sincerely, -Every Man. Masculinity has often emphasized traits such as stoicism, independence, and emotional restraint in men. As a result, some men may feel pressure to conceal their emotions or vulnerabilities, fearing that showing transparency could be perceived as weakness or vulnerability. There can be a stigma around men expressing vulnerability or emotional needs, which might make it more challenging for some men to form deep connections with others. On this episode, we get real about the issue guys have with deep friendships. After watching an ABC tv special on a place where men retreat to discover deeper issues in themselves, we dissect the conversation and see what God has to say about it. Join us as we discover why men are alone....

What imprint will you leave? Have you ever thought about that? What will be said of you? Leaving an imprint means making a lasting impression or impact on someone or something. It signifies leaving behind a mark. Something that signifies you were there. It is significant and enduring. It makes a lasting impact or contribution that continues to shape the world even after you are gone. It involves creating something of value that will have a positive influence on others, whether it be through your actions, work, or relationships. It is something that reflects your values, beliefs, and the difference you have made in the lives of others. It is about leaving behind a positive and lasting mark that will inspire, transform, and benefit future generations. That's the defining mark of a leader. True leaders don't invest in buildings. Jesus never built a building. They invest in people. Why? Because success without a successor is failure. Join us this episode as we talk with Daniel and Tury Nunez. A father and son who are leaving an imprint that is not about them but is all about serving others. Listen in on an intimate discussion on leadership, fears, and legacy. Will your ceiling be someone's floor from which they begin building their legacy?

"To be the man, you gotta beat the man." - Hulk Hogan To beat the man means you have to be "built better". This implies improvement or enhancement compared to something else. On an individual level, "built better" can refer to personal growth and development. It might involve improving oneself physically, mentally, emotionally, or spiritually. Ultimately, being "built better" implies progress, advancement, or enhancement in some aspect relative to a previous state, standard, or alternative. It signifies a commitment to improvement. How many men allow themselves to be beaten down through life circumstances, problems, the past, etc.? Yet Paul says in 1 Corinthians 9:27 " but I strictly discipline my body and make it my slave, so that, after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified." Join us this week as we talk to a man who had everything against him, he should be disqualified, yet he is "built better". He beat the man inside him to submission so that God may show him victory.

The wheels on the bus go round and round, round and round, round and round. The wheels on the bus go round and round, all through the town. "The struggle bus" is a term used to describe a state of difficulty or hardship that someone is experiencing. It implies that the individual is having a tough time dealing with challenges or obstacles in their life. The phrase is often used humorously to acknowledge and express empathy for someone who is going through a rough patch or facing various difficulties. Truth be told, we all ride "The Struggle Bus". Even the Apostle Paul rode it when he said in Romans 7:15, "I do not understand myself. I want to do what is right but I do not do it. Instead, I do the very thing I hate." How many of us men can relate to that? The struggle to do what is right but we still do wrong. Join us this episode as we talk about the struggle between doing right and being right. There is a huge identify difference between "I am a sinner" vs. "I struggle with sin". Take a listen and find your "I AM", so you can get off the bus.

Growing up I used to watch the "Love Boat". Awesome show. The theme song was even better. Check it out. (and I know you will actually be singing it as you read it:) ) Love boat Love, exciting and new Come aboard. we're expecting you. Love, life's sweetest reward. Let it flow, it floats back to you. I remember when I first fell in love with my wife. It was the sweetest reward. It was exciting and new. We would talk on the phone and when it was time to say good-bye, each one of us would pretend to hang up...but really we were still wanting to extend the conversation. You hang up, no you hang up. Or we would go out of our way to make something for each other. I remember making the most amazing mix tape. (yes an actual tape, shows my age). First love, it touches places in our soul that are unique. First love is often described as a unique and unforgettable experience characterized by intense emotions, excitement, and a sense of discovery. First love can also be a time of vulnerability and growth as we learn to navigate the ups and downs of relationships. The emotions associated with first love can be incredibly intense and all-encompassing. From the thrill of infatuation to the depths of longing and desire, we may feel a rollercoaster of emotions as we explore our feelings. But let's be honest after a while familiarity and routine bring forth complacency and we lose the feelings. What we once did for our "First Love" is forgotten. We start to think what have they done for me lately. Join us this episode as we talk about First Love. How to return to your First Love for God and your spouse, the advice is the same. JB's Recipe: https://www.onceuponachef.com/recipes/orecchiette-sausage-broccoli.html

This is what the LORD Almighty says: “Consider your ways." Haggai 1:7 Ok honest talk. If you think about your last year are you satisfied with what happened? Or do you look back with regret? Most men look back and think of all the ways they did not succeed, change, or grow. We look back with regret. The longer we keep looking back in the rearview mirror, it takes away from everything that's moving forward. In this episode, we ask 10 questions that every man should ask. God says in the book of Haggai to "consider your ways". That means we are to know the direction we are going. Lewis Carroll, the author of Alice in Wonderland wrote “If you don't know where you want to go, then it doesn't matter which path you take.” As men we must consider our ways for others are depending on our direction. Join us as we discuss 10 vital questions to ask in the new year. Perhaps it is time for you to "Consider your ways".

Every decision you make reflects your evaluation of who you are. When you look back at last year, are you happy with the direction of your life? The decisions you made? Are you where you planned to be? As men we have to ask the question: If your life is moving in the direction of your decisions, do you like the direction your decisions are taking you? Most men will look back and think of all the areas in which they are not where they thought they would be. The problem isn't desire, it's decisions. Little decisions daily result is directional change. So ask yourself a question, what direction am I moving? As we look forward to a new we are reminded of Proverbs 16:3 "Commit to the Lord whatever you do,. and he will establish your plans." When your values are clear, your decisions are easier. Join us this episode as we talk about what does it mean to make God decisions, not just good decisions for the new year.

Is it a wonderful life? One of the most popular Christmas movies details the struggle that all men have. Do I make a difference? At the core of every man, he contemplates that question. Does my life matter? Would others be better without me? In the movie "It's a Wonderful Life" George Bailey asks those very questions. But what is really interesting is the actor who played George Baily struggled with those questions. Jimmy Stewart was an accomplished actor, US Army Captain, A combat pilot during the war, and a Princeton University graduate in Architecture. Yet when he returned to the US in August 1945, Stewart was a changed man. He had lost so much weight that he looked sickly. He rarely slept, and when he did he had nightmares of planes exploding and men falling through the air screaming (in one mission alone his unit had lost 13 planes and 130 men, most of whom he knew personally). He was depressed, couldn’t focus, and refused to talk to anyone about his war experiences. His acting career was all but over. It's a Wonderful Life was a terribly difficult movie for him to make because he was personally dealing with the core plot of the movie. Do I matter? Does my life count for anything? Join us this episode as we talk about the lies we believe and what stops us from having a wonderful life. John 10:10 "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." Do you have a wonderful life?

Trying harder doesn’t work. Yet that's what men do. We think we can overcome the issues of our lives by just trying harder. And when that doesn't work, we figure out a way to medicate the issue. We turn to something to numb the pain because the feeling of whatever issue we have suck. So what do you medicate? What issue are you trying to fix and with what medication do you use? The problem is medicating doesn't cure, it only covers. It covers the underlying problem. This episode we are joined by a guest who openly admits that porn was his medication. This is a real, honest, transparent conversation with what happens when we medicate instead of turn to the cure. Take a listen and ask yourself...if not porn, what do you use to medicate?

Are you a risk taker or do you play it safe? Most men avoid risk because of the unknown. But what if....? Have you ever asked yourself...what if I _________(fill in the blank). So what stops you? Faith is a step into the unknown. There is a song by Elevation Worship, the lyrics go: I'd rather slip Walking on water Than spend my life Wondering, "What if?" Lord, if it's You Tell me to come 'Cause You alone can tame the wildest wind As men, God is calling us to live as a risk taker. To put faith into action. But to be honest getting out of the boat and walking into the unknown is dangerous. But we are called to live dangerously not recklessly. To live dangerously means to walk where we wouldn't normally walk. To do what we wouldn't normally do. But in order to do so, we have to trust like we wouldn't normally trust. That's what God is calling us to do. Join us this episode as we battle the waves that keep us from trusting and stepping out of the boat into the unknown.

Autopilot: a device for automatically steering or controlling. How many men live on autopilot ? We are all controlled by something. Many men are controlled by reactions to problems, others expectations, our past experiences, or maybe even a sinful pattern. Sometimes living on autopilot is only setting men up for a crash. But in contrast sometimes autopilot if controlled by the right thing can lead you to safety and security. 1 Peter 4:1 …since Christ suffered for us in the flesh, Arm yourselves also with the same mind. In other words...which autopilot controls you? We need prepare ourselves..arm ourselves, so that when life crashes we respond in the same way Christ did. Join us as we talk about how God prepares us in attitude and provision.

Suppress: To consciously avoid or prevent. Have you ever tried to hold a beachball under water to suppress it? The amount of energy and force it takes is amazing. No matter how you strong you are or how much you struggle, the beachball always comes back up. Why because the ball is designed to come to the surface. That is no different than the truth. Truth is always designed to be revealed. But we try to suppress it. No matter how much we try to suppress the truth of God in our lives, eventually we have to deal with it. All of us have areas in our lives that we know are not honoring to God. It comes from our desires to do what we want to do. Our desires distort His design which leads to distance and destruction. Join us as we talk about what it means to suppress the truth. What beachballs are you trying to hold down these days?

"We can easily forgive a child who is afraid of the dark; the real tragedy of life is when men are afraid of the light.” ― Plato There is a difference between being afraid and fear. We run away from what we are afraid of. But when we fear something, we are often drawn to it. The fear of God can motivate people to follow out of a sense of devotion and love for God. Being afraid of God is a negative reaction from a belief in a punishing God. Two questions: 1. What areas in your life do you "fear" God? 2. What areas in your life are you "afraid" of God? One draws you to relationship and the other draws you from relationship. Listen in as we discuss the difference and how being afraid of God and fearing God have impacted our lives.

The Day After... You went on a retreat, or a vacation, or took sometime away, and now you have to face your life again. The same pressures, problems, and circumstances are still there. Sometimes it's hard to get back to life. The day after can be difficult. Life starts back up again. And to be honest, coming down from the mountain is always difficult. But remember, although the situation or problems are the same, you are NOT. Many times we go from the Mountain top right into the Valley. We go from an extreme spiritual high or connectivity with God to a devastating time of distress and discouragement. 1. When you are on the mountain you can forget about your problems for a while. 2. When you are on the mountain you can see Jesus 3. When you are on the mountain you can hear from God Unfortunately, we must come off that mountain. Let me say this before we go any further: 1. When you are in the valley you can endure your problems. 2. When you are in the valley you can still see Jesus. 3. When you are in the valley you can still hear from God But the most important reminder is Jesus Came Down from the Mountain also. Matthew 8:1 “When Jesus came down from the mountain, large crowds followed him.” The retreat or vacation is meant to refresh your perspective and reestablish your position. Join us this week as we talk about The Day After. How we get back to life after a great retreat. For the next 6 weeks you can join us live on zoom at 7:00 Arizona Time. Come be a part of the conversation. Zoom Link: https://occphx.zoom.us/s/5086856596

In the late 1970's a cartoon aired on tv in Chicago called "The Most Important Person". You can search it on youtube. Half way through the cartoon a little boy sings a song called "I'm Lonely". The lyrics are powerful: I am lonely I want someone to play with me. I'm lonely I want someone to stay with me. I'm lonely I want someone to share the day with me, shout hooray with me, run away with me it's no fun being lonely. I want someone to talk with me. I'm lonely. I want someone to walk with me. I'm lonely. Yet there are times when I need to be alone. Like it on my own. But today I'm lonely. If men were honest they would say they are lonely. 27% of men say they have no friends. 42 Million Americans say they suffer from chronic loneliness. Yet God never meant for us to be alone. As a matter of fact He says that it is not good for man to be alone. So why are we? This episode we dive into why men struggle with loneliness and why men who have so much to offer other men take their wagon filled incredible tools and gifts and go home. Listen in to an honest conversation from guys who get it.

Hostage: one that is involuntarily controlled. Many men are controlled by feelings of anxiety or depression. They are literally held hostage by an involuntary feeling that can't be described, identified, or understood. The problem is we never talk about it. We just try to "Man Up" because of the social stigma and lack of transparency as men. However, 77% of men polled have suffered from common mental health symptoms like anxiety, stress, or depression. 40% of men have never spoken to anyone about it. In this episode, we are joined by our buddy, Chet. A retired law enforcement professional who found himself in a hostage situation with anxiety. Honest talk about an issue that men don't talk about.

"If boys don’t learn, men won’t know” -Douglas Wilson Imagine growing up without a father. Maybe you did. Perhaps through divorce, absence, unfortunate death, or maybe your father was present but was more abusive than fatherly. Every day, we witness the growing number of fatherless homes and the profound impact it has on young men. In this episode we invite our buddy, Luke, to tell his story. His father passed away when Luke was 8 years old. He understands what it is like to grow up fatherless. And yet, God has turned his brokenness into a burden. His loss to a passion. It has been said that God can take our brokenness and turn it into beauty. Join us as we talk about becoming a father to the fatherless by allowing God to use our hurt for His glory. Also check out Luke's website at fieldfaith.org