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This episode gets real about the gritty challenges of balancing ministry work with a complicated pregnancy and the medical hurdles we faced with our newborn son, Hugo. From severe hyperemesis gravidarum to the isolation of raising a baby far from our usual support network, we paint an honest picture of the emotional and physical toll it took on our family. We also explore the mixed feelings of navigating a new community, cultural barriers, and the strain of starting anew while managing personal and professional responsibilities.

Finally, we discuss the deeper themes of faith, community, and the pursuit of a more intentional life. From the cultural dynamics of living in Utah and interacting with the LDS community to the joys and trials of early parenthood, our story is one of growth, resilience, and reflection. You'll hear about our dreams of sustainable living, our musings on the end times, and our aspirations for raising children in a connected, mindful environment. Whether you're here for the parenting tips, the church-planting insights, or the heartfelt anecdotes, this episode promises something for everyone.

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How do you balance a passion for gaming with pastoral responsibilities? Ricky opens up about the initial hurdles he faced, and how falling in love with the process rather than fixating on financial gains has made all the difference. Emphasizing the importance of consistency and personal growth, Ricky shows how faith permeates all aspects of life, not just formal ministry roles.

In a heartfelt discussion, Ricky explores his career transition from the automotive repair industry to a more fulfilling role at his church, driven by a deep passion for connecting with people. He shares the emotional journey of becoming a father, reflecting on his own experiences growing up without a father and how that shaped his readiness to embrace fatherhood. Ricky recounts the profound moment of holding his son for the first time, feeling a sense of completion and purpose.

Parenting young children is no easy feat, and Ricky delves into the daily challenges and joys it brings. Through personal anecdotes, he highlights the importance of responding to chaos with calmness and intention, not only in parenting but in any leadership role. Ricky emphasizes the value of difficult conversations and family dynamics, sharing his journey of navigating gender expectations and ultimately finding joy in the health and happiness of his children. Join us as we explore these rich, personal experiences and the lessons they offer.

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What if your hometown could become the next Austin, Texas? Join us for an engaging conversation with Jesse Martin as he shares his unique journey in real estate, beginning right after high school under his father's guidance. With Grand Rapids experiencing unprecedented growth, we compare its trajectory to Austin and delve into the cultural and culinary marvels that make each city special. Discover the surprising origins of the wet burrito and the dynamics of today's bustling housing market.

Navigating relationships and lifestyle changes can be a complex endeavor. We share personal anecdotes on transitioning from soda to LaCroix, interpreting religious texts, and the childhood stories that shape our adult lives, including the influence of sports icons like Michael Phelps on our eating habits. Delving deeper into dating within a Christian context, we discuss the significance of intentional relationships and offer creative date ideas, from zoo visits to pickleball matches, that foster genuine connections.

From the nostalgic sound of pickleball to reminiscing about classic GameCube games, this episode offers a rich tapestry of topics. We tackle the future of electric vehicles, ponder the state of Michigan’s real estate, and reflect on the intricate balance between state rights and federal authority. With insights on poetry, history, and personal hygiene, our discussion wraps up with reflections on relocation, fitness struggles, and the importance of clear, direct communication in building meaningful relationships. Tune in for a thoughtful and entertaining journey through the myriad aspects of life and human connection.

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Our chat travels through the impact of fast food on our eating habits, touching on the legacy of the "Supersize Me" documentary creator. Finally, we indulge in a nostalgic conversation about VeggieTales, with a special mention of Junior Asparagus.

Ever had plans thwarted by unexpected mishaps? We recount our excitement to perform Skillet's "Monster" at a church talent show, only to be sidelined by a sprained arm. Our love for Skillet’s music remains undiminished, and we share fond memories of listening to Randy Travis on cassette tapes. As we continue our trip down memory lane, we delve into beloved childhood cartoons and Christian radio dramas like "Adventures in Odyssey," reflecting on how these stories shaped our early years and rekindled old friendships from Bible camp.

Curious about cryptids and urban legends? We explore the fascinating lore of Bigfoot, Mothman, and other mythical creatures, debating their scientific plausibility and pop culture appeal. Our discussion touches on paranormal encounters in horror video games and the eerie allure of "The Blair Witch Project." Amidst the spooky talk, we reflect on the bizarre phenomena of the toilet paper craze during COVID-19 and the emotional toll of the pandemic on our loved ones. We wrap up with lighter anecdotes about spoiled milk, beloved pets, and playful debates on hypothetical endeavors like raising the Titanic. Tune in for a mix of humor, nostalgia, and thought-provoking conversations that promise to entertain and enlighten.

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Could you handle the unexpected adversaries of a wilderness trek or navigate the tumultuous terrain of political debate? Join me and our insightful guest, Lawrence, for a robust exchange on the poignant intersection of faith and politics, the practical and metaphorical paths of hiking, and the ethics wrapped up in wealth and giving. Together, we unravel the contradictions and commonalities that bind us, all the while keeping things light with a few laughs about the simpler struggles—like the quest for the perfect hiking boots and the ever-present bug spray forgetfulness.

Embark on an exploration of environmental responsibility and the delicate balance between individual choice and government policy. We openly question the polarization within American society and ponder whether our political convictions align with our environmental consciousness. The discourse extends into how these beliefs infiltrate our everyday decisions, from the cars we drive to the products we consume, and how we can support our communities in making more environmentally sustainable choices.

This episode culminates in a heart-to-heart on living authentically within one's faith, as we contemplate the true power of God and the transformative journey of seeking closeness with Him. With humorous anecdotes and serious reflections, we dissect the implications of preaching salvation while striving to practice what we preach. And yes, we even touch upon the curious case of whistleblowing and the personal integrity it demands. Tune in for a heartfelt, thought-provoking episode that is as diverse in topics as it is deep in insight.

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Elijah and I take you through the ins and outs of church ministry, and let me tell you, it's not your average Sunday service chat. We kick things off by swapping stories about the often-humorous trials of leading worship and the intricate dance of church leadership roles. Remember the time Elijah's bass playing was so avant-garde it got muted during a live performance? We do, and we're dishing out all the details, along with some heartfelt reflections on the joys of collaboration and the journeys our music has taken us on.

Strap in as we pull back the curtain on the songwriting process—at times a comedy of errors with duct-taped headphones and at others, a stroke of genius when a casual suggestion morphs into a track like "Blinded by the Eclipse". From the discerning ears of musicians to the balancing act of juggling jobs, podcasting, and church commitments, we cover it all. Our shared experiences reveal not only the cultural nuances of various church practices but also the growth that comes from grinding it out in the trades and the impact it has on our content creation efforts.

Finally, we wade into the deeper waters of faith-based integrity, tithing, and the raw realities of missionary work. It's not all seriousness though; we'll whisk you away with tales from the roommate trenches and the unexpected blessings they can bring. And in case you were wondering about the challenges of interviewing a coworker versus a ministry bigwig, we've got the scoop on that, too. So, come for the laughs and stay for the insights as Elijah and I tackle the multifaceted world of church ministry, music, and life in between.

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Embark on a captivating escapade as we whisk you through the dense forests of the Appalachian Trail with Ethan, whose stories from the woods are as lush as the forest itself. Strap on your boots for a trek down memory lane with my own Appalachian Trail odyssey, a 5-month, 2,193-mile dance with nature's raw beauty and fury. From the highs of Clingmans Dome to the lows of 'Virginia blues,' our tales are a hiker's mosaic of grit, laughter, and the unexpected camaraderie found within the wilderness.

As the trail unfurls, we uncover the peculiarities and practicalities of long-distance hiking, where 'hiker hunger' becomes a badge of honor and surplus gear finds its way into 'hiker bins.' In the thick of the Appalachian woods, we encountered both the mischief of wildlife and the colorful tapestry of human characters. My moniker "Monkey Man" sprang from necessity turned into innovation—a testament to the resourcefulness that life on the trail demands.

Finally, our footprints lead us through the mental labyrinth of thru-hiking, where the wilderness is both a physical and psychological proving ground. The tales of close encounters with nature's less forgiving side serve as stark reminders of the risks taken and the resilience forged along the path. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or living vicariously through each step, our stories offer a panoramic view of the trail life, complete with the inspiring sense of accomplishment that comes from embracing the grandeur of the great outdoors.

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Imagine hitting the road with nothing but your instrument and a heart full of songs, ready to embrace every encore and every new city like an old friend. That's the musical odyssey Stixx and I share in our latest jam session of a podcast, where the melodies of touring life play a sweet background score to stories of homesickness, the warmth of Miami gigs, and the unmistakable joy of live performances. From the balmy Florida backdrop to the soundproof booth, we discuss how the right pair of headphones can turn a recording session from work into pure magic, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the harmony between artist and technology.

Now, picture the savory delights of roadside diners and the hidden gems of local cuisine that turn a tour into a gastronomic adventure. Stixx and I swap tales of Florida's Latino good landscape, savoring the memories of flavors as diverse as the venues we've played. We don't just stop at the palate-pleasing anecdotes; the conversation spins a track through the versatile life of musicians who moonlight as DJs for weddings, bringing rhythm to those special days and nights beyond the concert hall. It's a candid look at the multifaceted life behind the mic—where creativity and culture collide in the most deliciously unexpected ways.

But every artist's journey has its roots, and ours are no exception. In heartfelt tones, we trace the paths that led us to the stage, from early drum beats to the embrace of faith through music. Reflecting on those pivotal moments when we first realized the power of a melody to touch souls, we celebrate the mentors and moments that shaped our careers. This podcast isn't just a series of notes and anecdotes—it's a symphony of experiences that resonate with the shared beats of our lives, inviting you to find your rhythm alongside ours. Join stixx and me as we unpack the crescendors edicated to the art of soun

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