We Used To Be Friends: Recent Episodes
Tracy Wood, Josh Neeley, and BJ Murray
Inspired by trying to live a life according to God’s will, in this current day, being pulled in every direction imaginable: parenting, relationships, career, the media, both political parties, and where to eat out for dinner? There are too many choices sometimes, and others, it seems like too few. We will explore current topics, funny high school stories, all the way to what is happening today in our lives. These best friends will try to help us all gain some clarity on almost any topic out there. This is real life, what it looks like most of the time; at least, according to Josh, BJ, and Tracy.
We discuss the Book of Philippians, a letter to a group of people who had endeared themselves to the Apostle Paul. He writes to them from jail, but you wouldn't know it. Paul reminds them to be grateful, to value others above yourself, to serve others, and to do everything without grumbling or arguing. Could Paul write a letter to our teenagers? Maybe not. BJ also says Tracy is more like spaghetti. Listen for that enlightening context!
In this special episode, Father Vincent Lampert talks about his training in Rome, the 4 degrees of demonic possession, and the "reality of evil." Father Vince walks us through the signs of possession: speaking and understanding a language foreign to their own, superhuman strength, knowledge of things they shouldn't know, and a negative reaction to anything sacred. He receives over 3,000 exorcism requests, per year! Wow. Just, wow...
We thought Rick Rubin's book: The Creative Act would be one way, but it wasn't. It was too "woo-woo" according to BJ. However, there were several connections that could be made to the Bible's assertations on creativity. The famous music producer may not give credit to God for creative acts, but we do. And we talk about it!
Rabbi Jason Sobel was raised in Jewish home, earned two degrees in Jewis and International Studies, and has written Mysteries of the Messiah and The God of the Way with Kathie Lee Gifford. His newest book, Signs and Secrets of the Messiah: A Fresh Look at the Miracles of Jesus is out now! Apparently, by having faith in Jesus we are "royalty!" Good to know!
Victory Boyd is a multi-faceted jazz, folk, and soul singer who is about to go on a fall tour with Lauren Daigle. She wrote with Kanye West on several of the songs on his album Jesus is King and her newest album, Glory Hour, is out now! "When you're in the awe of God, everyone else seems so small."
Eventually, the "Man in Black" saw the light! Director Ben Smallbone takes a deep dive into Johnny Cash's return to his faith. With never before seen footage of Cash himself, Ben also interviewes several music stars as they discuss the huge influence he had on them. Ben shares some of the things he learned and what impressed him the most!
The book The Go Giver inspired our discussion on parenting integrity, being hopeful like Ted Lasso, and the love we should be showing and giving others. The quote, "There is no hate like Christian love" should really cause you to think. And act. And change, how you think, act, speek, and how you feel, about others. BJ shares a great quote, "we shouldn't accept anyone into our buildings that Jesus wouldn't accept." Hmmm... really makes you wonder.
Josh picked out the book, The Go-Giver, by Bob Burg and John David Mann, for us to read. Even though it's more of a book written to inspire business professionals, we all took away some valuable lessons from it. BJ says it again, there is no work-life balance, it should be work-life engagement. Two of the most important points in this book are to touch lives, and be real. We couldn't agree more!
The Thorn is a visually dynamic and heart-stirring theatrical portrayal of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Not your average Passion play, The Thorn combines martial arts, aerial acrobatics and emotionally powerful performances that have been engaging audiences across the US for over 20 years. John Bolin is bringing this live project across the country, and a special filmed performance to theater audiences on two nights only: March 6 and March 7.
Director Brent McCorkle talks about his newest movie, Jesus Revolution, starring Kelsey Grammer, Kimberly Williams-Paisley, Jonathan Roumie, and others! We talk about the way to a crew's heart (tacos), the importance of making a killer film (and letting God do the rest), and getting paid (in spiritual currency). He hints that yours truly might be good at making movies and we geek out over Star Wars.
Tracy meets with The Chosen's Amanda Jenkins. The Chosen is now the most successful crowd-funded television event in history. This is a huge deal! The Chosen currently has a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes with an audience score of 99%. It's also rated at a 9.6 on IMDB. It's safe to say, The Chosen is a critical hit, and a hit with audiences as well! Amanda writes all of the companion content for this well-reviewed show.
BJ chose Atomic Habits by James Clear to close out Season 3! We found connections in both our professional and personal lives. Choosing systems and how you do things, over goals and end-results, helps you become more successful at everything you do - and it all starts with a small step!
Mercy Me's Barry Graul joins us for their new album: Always Only Jesus! We talk about Thanksgiving, the music that inspires us, the creator, and how Mercy Me creates and inspires others. Barry was a lot of fun!
Jon Reddick talks about "zooming out" and seeing the big picture. This inspiring singer and songwriter, as well as visual artist, joins us in conversation about Thanksgiving, his craft, new material coming out, and even parenting. This guy has a voice like butter and if the piano moves you, give this guy a listen!
Former Cardinal and Angel, Scott Spiezio quotes Psalms 40, which sums up the highs and lows of his Major League Baseball career and his personal journey with addiction. "He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand." What a comforting scripture for our 100th episode!
Two-time World Series champion Scott Spiezio walks us through his battle with addiction. Just like some legendary at-bats with the St. Louis Cardinals and Los Angeles Angels, he's had to grind through some things to find and remain in sobriety. "I can rewrite a better ending, instead of worrying about the past. I can't right all the wrongs, but I can at least do well from here on out."
Deeper into this Bible verse, you can really begin to digest the meaning behind it. Anyone who believes that Jesus is the son of God is going to Heaven. Pack your bags! Punch your ticket! You're going! Actually, you won't need those bags...
We begin our conversation about Max Lucado's book 3:16 The Numbers of Hope and talk about the Bible verse John 3:16.
BJ throws down some thought provoking ideas on sin that really sets the stage and contextualizes this verse. BJ said "When we accept Jesus, we die to sin."
This verse, that has inspired signs at sporting events all over the world is arguably the most important message in the Bible: "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." This led us into a meaningful discussion on sin, and what Jesus' death and resurrection has done for our lives.
Elijah, one of the most prominent people from the Bible, suffered from depression and suicidal thoughts. God stayed with him and helped bring him out of that and into a life rich with love and value. God hasn't changed. He can do these things for you. We conclude our conversation with Chris Hodges about these negative thoughts and what we can do about them.
Do Christians struggle with negative thoughts and depression? Do Christians ever have suicidal thoughts? Chris Hodges, author of Out of the Cave: Stepping into the Light when Depression Darkens What You See uses Elijah's story to highlight that they most certainly do. However, we can overcome those thoughts. Josh, Tracy, and Chris share their personal stories of darkness and what brought them into the light.
We sat with Matthew West to talk about his new book, The God Who Stays. Often times he hears a story from a fan and some of his best songs come from those stories, then, he has more to say. We talk about leather pants and chaffing, the Rev. Billy Graham, and how the message of the Gospel is the message of God pursuing us!
We go back to school as teachers, parents, and remembering what school was like when we were younger. This time of year represents fresh hope and a new start so we also talk about what we are doing for our spiritual growth and offer up some suggestions!
With books like The Faithful Spy, Shooting at the Stars, John Brown, and Miracle Man, John Hendrix has built a New York Times best selling career and has earned numerous awards. His newest graphic novel, The Holy Ghost humorously depicts conversations between a squirrel, badger, and the Holy Spirit. We also talk about our mutual love of St. Louis and the sovereignty of God.
He may have won a World Series in his rookie year, but that didn't stop Chris Hammond from wanting to be better. Not only on the field, but off as well. He warns us against using the Bible for 911 calls and encourages us to ask the Holy Spirit into our daily lives. At some point, Chris grew from being a "Church Goer" to a "Christ Follower," and he wants us to do the same. Want his cell phone number to ask him for guidance? Well, he gives it. Listen!
We continue talking about abortion, with love, patience, grace, and understanding that we might not always have the right answers and that life is complex, sometimes. We pray that you continue to seek God's wisdom on such matters, always.
The topic of abortion is a highly volatile one with many complex layers and points of contention. Rev. Kira Austin-Young wrote a book on the matter who believes the decision to carry the pregnancy to term should be made by the woman, medical team, her family, and personal counsel rather than by politicians.
In this conversation with David T. Hawkins, we talk about the myth of Christianity being easy. How many of us have been scarred or burned by the church? Life? God never promises things will be easy, he promises to be with us along the way. David continues to make our brains think and our faces smile.
We were honored to sit down with Pastor David T. Hawkins and talk about the challenges we go through in life: dips and disruptions. "The dips do not mean you're destined there, it just simply means God is training you for something in the future."
Kick off your summer by listening to our conversation with Jon Foreman from Switchfoot. We talk about writing a song and being a conduit rather than a craftsman, how labels are unBiblical, surfing, and the many important charities that Switchfoot supports. You can catch them on tour this summer, and after seeing them in concert ourselves, you should!
Join us for a fun conversation with comedian and author Anjelah Johnson-Reyes! We talk about hood raccoons, the science of joke writing, and how about some great advice, "grow where you're planted." Her book Who Do I Think I Am? is out now!
They call him "Captain Coyote" because he is Phoenix's all time leading scorer. He was a two-time All Star and in the top 100 NHL all time scorers. Friends, if you don't already know him, get to know Shane Doan!
In the second part of our conversation with Sarah and Beth we talk about current legislation that is on the floor in Congress and how we handle disagreeing with others, from our spouses to strangers. Their book Now What? is out now!
We talk with Sarah Stewart Holland and Beth Silvers from Pantsuit Politics, again! This is our first repeat guests on the show and we couldn't be more excited. They have a new book called Now What? However, we spend plent of time talking about Coke versus Pepsi and how much the world has changed in over two years.
Frank White has 8 Gold Gloves from his time playing second base for the Kansas City Royals, third most in MLB history! He is the County Executive for Jackson County, Missouri. We talk about leadership, listening, and integrity. Frank is an inspiration to everyone!
Daniel Kennedy walks us through our love of God and his love of us, the Book of Daniel, and the Mediterranean Diet. We also talk about the big three: grace, mercy, and tacos!
We speak with Healthy Long Life documentarian and Oasis of Hope counselor Daniel Kennedy about how to add healthy years on to your life! Death and sickness weren't a part of the original plan.
Author Paul Young is vulnerable with us, with his life and lessons he's learned. It was a beautiful experience, personal, and meaningful. There are so many things to wrestle with during our conversation. And that is good, wrestling strengthens faith, does it not?
Wow! We hit the ground running with NY Times best-selling author, Paul Young. We talk about the "gift of grace," the redeeming genius of God, and what sin is along with what it isn't. There is a lot to think about!
We get into the deep with David Fiensy about Bible times, talking about death and the importance of being thankful we live now. After Daivd leaves us, we go even deeper.
David Fiensy tells us about life long ago and the people who spread the "Jesus Movement." They shared clothes? Gross. There was a valley of cheese makers? Great! They sold children? Oh no...
We finish our discussion on courage: it's contagious. Rarely are we courageous alone. Ryan Holiday's book Courage is Calling was full of inspiring stories and lessons we can apply in our Christian lives.
BJ, Josh and Tracy read the book Courage is Calling by Ryan Holiday and applied it to where we are in life, now. Multiple Bible verses refer to hope, strength, and courage. We begin by defining courage and discussing our fears.
In the second part to our interview with David Crowder, he talks about giving insurance quotes as a kid, the new tour, and the desire to have crispy French fries.
Crowder discusses soft cusses and soft clothes, being back on the road again, his creative process, and what those red letters in the Bible mean.
We sat down with Director Jon Erwin, of films like I Can Only Imagine, October Baby, Mom's Night Out, and American Underdog. Jon talks about making movies with a faith-based message in Hollywood and the team of talent that created this film.
We finish the conversation with Jessica Malaty Rivera, talking about Covid, a missed opportunity, deaths, and the religious divide. Jessica really lays it out for us, teaching us about infectious diseases and their vaccines. Oh yeah, we also laugh along the way!
We sit down with Jessica Malaty Rivera, microbiologist and science communication strategist in infectious disease epidemiology, public health policy, and vaccine advocacy. Malaty Rivera is currently the Science Communication Lead for The COVID Tracking Project at The Atlantic. We tackle the myths with Covid!
Tracy and BJ speak with renowned author Mitch Albom about his newest story The Stranger in the Lifeboat. We also touch on a few of previous books and his work in Haiti.
Bj, Josh, and Tracy ask acclaimed author Philip Yancey about prayer, talk about toxic churches, how Jesus made the wrong people heroes, and how the church missed the mark during the Covid pandemic. Even though he was brought up in a racist and judegmental church, Philip has followed his journalistic tendency to seek God's truth.
Join us for the final part of our Scary Stories series, Steffani Besch's tale. Steffani died many years ago, but that wasn't the end. Join us as she tells the story of her miracle!
In the second part of this Halloween series called Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark; Josh, Tracy, and BJ share stories from the Bible that scared them growing up. Let's be honest, parts of these stories scare us still!
In this special Halloween series Scary Stories to tell in the Dark, you will hear Ray Hagan's journey into death and back to life, Charles Cole's true ghost story, and Army Veteran Matt Marr's UFO story on camping trip with Tracy.
Join us with the final part to our conversation with Living Water CEO Mike Mantel. Mike has experienced many things, met many challenges, and continues to push through with God's help at every step.
From installing underground water sprinkler systems with his dad to digging holes for safe water in villages around the world, Living Water CEO Mike Mantel walks us through God's calling and persistent voice.
In this episode, we go deeper with how God empowers us to stand up to bullies. God's grace saves us all! David relays an important and often over-looked detail to the story of the Prodigal Son - the father ran to his sinful son, just like God is running to you. All you have to do is head in the right direction.
We define what it means to be a "bully" with David Besch, author of From Bullied to Blessed. David talks about his experiences being bullied as a child and how he counsels others. Almost all of us have experienced bullying at some point in our lives.
We sandwich our talk about anxiety and stresses in our lives with the Rick Ankiel story. The former St. Louis Cardinal pitcher details his struggles with anxiety and the yips in the book The Phenomenon.
Inspired by real life experiences and a chance purchase of the Rick Ankiel book The Phenomenon, we talk about anxiety, trauma, using it as an excuse, and the misunderstood aspects of how challenging it can be.
We take a deeper dive with Marcus, the Roman Emperor. There is a lot to think about here, and believe us, that is difficult sometimes. Even with the challenge of trying to digest stoic philosophy, we persevere. Would the Apostle Paul and Old Marvelous Marcus be friends? Maybe. Just maybe!
BJ leads us on a study of Marcus Aurelius. This stoic philosopher inspired people around the globe a couple of thousand years ago, and continues to inspire today. This is a highly intellectual show, but don't worry - there are plenty of laughs too! How much of Marcus' work can be applied to Christian living? Well, that is open for debate.
Charles Martin quotes CS Lewis and Ricky Bobby, talks about rejection and forgiveness, shares the experience of one of his books being turned into a movie, and we have an absolute first on the show. We always pray for our guests but we always keep the request private, something between the guest, and us. We want to honor them. However, Charles tells us to publish it. Praying for one another is loving one another.
We were blessed to speak to Charles Martin, author of The Water Keeper, Send Down the Rain, The Mountains Between Us, and his newest book out now- The Letter Keeper. Charles loves his family and is more concerned with how is doing as a dad, than a writer. Inspirational!
We talk about accountability, food, the multiple books they've written together, and food. All five of us like food, a lot! Check out their books: True Competitor, Wisdom Walks,and Called to Greatness!
We talk with Fellowship of Christian Athletes leaders, Dan Britton and Jimmy Page. They have co-authored several books together including Called to Greatness, True Competitor, and Wisdom Walks. These guys were a lot of fun! You will laugh and learn, two of our favorite things to do!
Let's just use some quotes from Katharine: "Instead of obsessing over the size of your sins, obsess over the grace we've been given" and "we are called to be recognized by our love for others rather than our divisions and our arguments and our judgements" and finally, "you haven't lived until you've had Texas BBQ." These sum up the episode nicely!
Someone can be a scientist and believe in the Bible? Of course, it just takes grace from Christians, and from scientists, and they can indeed match up and co-exist quite nicely. I love what Katharin Hayhoe says, "The Bible is God's written word, and creation or nature is God's expressed word."
Dayton talks about the business of baseball, the love of his family, and what keeps him up at night.
In the first of a three-part series, Royals general manager Dayton Moore interviews us, hits us with wisdom, and gives all credit to God. Seriously, every baseball fan and any Christian will learn a lot from this man.
Many things happen in this episode: Victoria can't stop talking religion and politics, Lorne Michaels was so nice, she asks us about our show and where she fits in, she talks about doing a handstand on her honeymoon, and she blows us kisses. So, there is that. Seriously, someone from SNL blew us kisses?! Yes, that just happened.
Victoria isn't in New York anymore, but the Nashville area. It's still a great show title, though! We got to talk to SNL alum Victoria Jackson about her time on the show, surviving cancer, comedy, and being a Christian in the entertainment industry.
After the poem by Amanda Gorman, we were inspired to recognize famous quotes, Bible verses, and other words that have moved us over the years. BJ had a great idea and even quotes a recent interview with Greg Holder "Doubt is not the enemy of faith, silence is." Josh on the other hand, threw out Joe Dirt and Monty Python.
Inspired by the poem that Poet Laureate Amanda Gorman shared at the inauguration, we pick it apart and find inspiration and Godliness all over the place. You would think that Josh comparing a line to Monty Python gets weird, but it really doesn't. It totally works!
We talk to Anthony Love, principal of a Texas public school who helped create a very unique school store for his students and families. Anthony Love and this story has been featured on ABC News, Good Morning America, and daytime talk shows.
We finish talking with Greg Holder about his fantastic book, Never Settle. We learned so much from him during these episodes. He is more than a church pastor, author, husband, father... he is a good man with the love of Jesus in his heart. Easy to talk to. Good sense of humor. Genuine love and appreciation of others. You don't find that in everyone.
We talk with Pastor Greg Holder, author of books Never Settle and The Genius of One. We share some laughs but really get down to learning and trying to become better at loving others.
In the final episode of Season 1, Tracy, BJ, and Josh discuss their favorite podcast shows from the year.
We talk about the year in general in this episode, I mean, it started off with a spray whip shortage, then Covid, racial tension, presidential election... whew! Tired yet?
We discuss Thanksgiving memories: the good, the bad, and the creepy and how we want Thanksgiving to be remembered by our kids.
In this episode, we talk about adventures we need to take, and who we want to take them with.
Recorded months ago, we talk about: how political parties have changed, BJ thinks Hamilton was a president, we name our favorite presidents, lobbyists, we talk about opportunities missed with Sarah and Beth, and the Enneagram Test.
We are STILL talking about politics with Sarah and Beth. Beth says picking a president is like picking a train that is leaving the station for four years, we can pick one, and pick another one next time. TOOT TOOT!
Republicans versus Democrats? It can be a grudge match, a cage match to the death. But does it "have" to be? Please listen as we discuss politics around the dinner table, which is usually a big no-no.
Lisa Harper talks parenting, her faith, and the importance on realizing the immense kindness of God. She also shares her mental image of Eve- wearing an ACDC shirt and wearing Daisy Dukes. Hilarious!
In the second episode, Lisa Harper discusses her book The Sacrament of Happy. How she got the idea, clarifications on happiness, and the truth about how one can still be happy and yet honest that life is hard.
In the first of three episodes, Lisa Harper tells the inspirational story of how she became a mamma and how she loves motorcycles.
Pastor Anthony Meyers continues to dispense some Godly wisdom here. A big takeawy to some knuckleheads like us? Every night when you are going to bed, ask yourself where did you win, where did you lose, and what did you learn.
In the second episode of this highly impactful interview with Pastor Anthony Meyers, we talk Blue Bell ice cream. That's not all, we also talk about people using others' quotes on social media instead of just saying it yourself. Don't hide, just say it, if you truly feel that way. To change America we can't just change policy, we need to change hearts. In order to help African American lives during this time, don't just be a witness or give your verbal support, become an "accomplice."
In the first episode we talk with Pastor Anthony Meyers. He: 1. Loves God 2. Has a teaching Degree 3. is an African American 4. and also a former cop
So... let's get started, there is plenty to talk about!
We talk about race in this episode, as it played a part in Hootie during their touring. Jim had two impactful quotes "We need to figure out to heal together," and "My children get to be a part of the conversation, and they should be." Great words from a good man!
In this episode with Jim Sonefeld, we finally clear up the mystery on whether or not it was him who made out with Monica from Friends (It wasn't). We also hit some pretty critical topics like 12 steps and race.
In the first episode of our interview with Jim Sonefeld, we learn about his transition from keeping the rhythm for one of the biggest bands of the 90s to being out in front, leading praise and worship. We also catch Josh playing with his dolls, again.
Trooper Brian Geier shares his opinion on gun control and recounts some of his experiences getting tased, pepper sprayed, and his granny walking off in a casino.
In this episode, we talk to multi-award winning Missouri Highway Patrolman Trooper Brian Geier. Before this guy became a successful law officer, he was scratching at pool, breaking his pool cue over his knee, and throwing it into the lake like it was a javelin. True story! Of course we share some funny stories, but also talk about the George Floyd event. We sincerely hope that this demonstrates our attempt to share some humor but our desire to discuss truly important topics as well.
After John left the interview, we talked about our "wounds." According to John's book Wild At Heart, every single man (and woman!) carries around a wound in their hearts. This wound scars us and follows us around. We get vulnerable in this episode! This is guaranteed to hit you right in the "feels!"
In this episode, John talks about Earth restored, Star Wars, CS Lewis, and answers some hard questions. I asked him, what are we going to do when we are watching those former friends and loved ones at judgement... and they don't make it? Listen to this episode for his advice.
Tracy, Josh, and BJ talk Braveheart, Star Wars, The Chronicles of Narnia, and floating down the Colorado River with NY Times Best Selling author John Eldredge.
While BJ and Tracy explore the best shows of all time and some current movies, Josh can't help still talking about how much he misses ALF.
Should you get annoyed with your mom? Judge your friends and neighbors? How important are friends who share your values and ethics?
Ever feel like you have the cartoon angel on one shoulder, and the little cartoon devil on the other? One trying to convince you to do good things, and the other... well, not so much. CS Lewis wrote a story called The Screwtape Letters in which a senior spirit tries to give advice to his nephew on how to steer a man the "wrong" way.
We talked about how Corona has changed things; what should we do now? With our kids? With our spouses? Nobody wants to end up like Jack Torrance from The Shining!
In this episode, BJ's office has an intruder, we talk about what is going on and how it affects our families. Wasn't H1N1 worse? Oh, the good ol' days.
The second and final installment of the Rick Horton interview is awesome. He says you don't "have" to go to every one of your kids' games, what he learned from losing two World Series with the Cards, Dwight Gooden was the most talented player he ever saw, and he gives us the scoop as who the Christian Day at the Park speaker at Busch Stadium will be this year!
Rick details how he came to his faith, FCA Director of St. Louis, his roots with Cardinals baseball, and how an 11 year old said something that convicted him.
So many mistakes, but the most important thing. Are we learning? Do we want to get better? Let's set some goals!
In the final chapters of Revelation we realize this book isn't just about something ending, but something beginning... talk about a twist ending! In Heaven, how big of a mansion will we get? What an exciting ending to the strangest and hardest book in the Bible to consume.
In this episode, Tracy, BJ, and Josh talk about Revelation chapters 15 - 18. We also touch on some light topics like pre-destination and Party Cove. Also, dancing the macarena with naked old men.
In this episode, Tracy, Josh, and BJ discuss Revelation chapters 11-14. Remember in an earlier episode, we described how the weirdness hadn't reached its peak yet? Well, we are here. A dragon, some beasts, and a whole lot of crazy.
In this episode, Tracy, Josh, and BJ talk about Revelation 8, 9, and 10. We talk about trumpets, angels, and plagues. No, this isn't a Jam Band concert at an amphitheater, it is just the end of the world.
In this episode, Tracy, BJ, and Josh discuss Revelation Chapters 5, 6, and 7. These chapters talk about a lamb (awww, cute!), a scroll and some very specific numbers. Don't worry, the strangeness hasn't reached its zenith yet.
In this episode, Josh, BJ, and Tracy discuss who wrote Revelation, chapters 1-4, what they say, and what it all could mean.
In this episode, Josh, BJ, and Tracy talk about everything they know about the end of the world, from movies, books, and misconceptions growing up.
The initial episode of We Used to be Friends! Where three dudes, who used to consider ourselves friends but now brothers, talk about how we met, growing up, and the craziness that happened at Josh's house.