The WizeGuys

Larry McDonald
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The WizeGuys

Do you ever find yourself feeling restless, dissatisfied, or curious about what lies beyond? Are you someone who questions established norms, strives to embrace your individuality, and craves an authentic existence? Welcome to The WizeGuys, a thought-provoking podcast hosted by Larry McDonald, a seasoned visionary, spiritual mentor, and unapologetic trailblazer. Join us as we explore the unconventional and challenge the conventional in religion, culture, philosophy and their impact on your everyday life. Larry and a diverse team of free-thinkers and special guests, such as The Rev, Coach Stu, and the Fierce Mystic Sorceress, will unveil and dissect dogmas, doctrines, and divisions that often hinder or distort spirituality and society. Our perspective is that everything has a spiritual dimension, and we'll apply this perspective to a wide range of societal norms and practices, providing alternative viewpoints to the mainstream narrative. Prepare to be inspired and encouraged to see the world differently as we venture to the frontier of the unconventional and beyond. Join us on this journey to expand your horizons and broaden your perspectives. Strap in and get ready to Step Over the Line!

  1. Heaven, Hell, And Cosmic Consequences

    14 HR AGO

    Heaven, Hell, And Cosmic Consequences

    We're diving right into a pretty juicy topic today: the whole heaven and hell situation, and trust me, it’s not as straightforward as you might think! We're here to stir the pot and challenge some of those old-school beliefs that might be holding you back. Love is the name of the game, and we’re asking the big question: does love really win? Spoiler alert: we’re leaning toward a resounding yes, but we’re also navigating through some of the touchy stuff surrounding the concept of hell. So grab your headphones and get comfy—let’s explore how our perceptions of God and love can reshape our understanding of these big concepts. Who knows? We might just spark some "aha" moments along the way! Takeaways: In this episode, we dove deep into the controversial topics of heaven and hell, challenging traditional beliefs while keeping the conversation light and engaging. We emphasized the importance of viewing uncomfortable topics as opportunities for growth, and how discomfort can lead to deeper understanding. The guys discussed how love ultimately wins in the grand scheme of things, and how that perspective can reshape our understanding of faith and spirituality. One key takeaway is that our perceptions of God can greatly affect our views on heaven and hell, sparking a discussion on whether God is capricious or inherently loving. We explored the idea that Jesus did not come to save us from God, but rather from ourselves, inviting us to rethink how we view divine love and grace. Throughout the chat, we laughed and joked, proving that even deep, meaningful conversations can be fun and enlightening, encouraging listeners to share their thoughts with us. Links referenced in this episode: wiseguys.comrobbell.comlovewins.com Companies mentioned in this episode: Rob Bell C.S. Lewis

    50 min
  2. Leadership Lessons: Courage, Humility, and a Little Fun Part 2

    17 APR

    Leadership Lessons: Courage, Humility, and a Little Fun Part 2

    Ready to roll? We're diving deep into the world of courageous leadership, where we tackle everything from the nitty-gritty of personal growth to the art of being present for those we lead. Today, we’re all about the importance of rolling up your sleeves and getting your hands dirty—because, let’s face it, it’s hard work that brings results. We also explore the gift of availability; that’s right, giving your time is one of the most valuable things you can offer. Plus, we dig into the idea that sometimes, you gotta embrace a little suffering to really grow. So, buckle up, because we’re shattering the norms and flipping the script on what it means to lead effectively! Takeaways: Engaging in courageous leadership requires you to actively participate and roll up your sleeves. Understanding your 'why' is crucial, as it shapes your leadership approach and inspires others. A good leader is available to their team, showing that they prioritize their needs and well-being. Courageous leaders often face suffering, whether it's second-guessing themselves or dealing with team dynamics. Effective leadership involves focusing on what's truly important while learning to say 'no' to distractions. Personal growth and emotional intelligence are vital for anyone in a leadership role to thrive. Links referenced in this episode: Gorogue Life-The Wizeguys homepageStart with why-Simon SinekTyranny of the Urgent

    43 min

  3. 10 APR

    Leadership Lessons: Courage, Humility, and a Little Fun Part 1

    Leadership isn’t just about the title on your business card—it’s an inner journey as much as it is an outward one. In this chat, we dive into the nitty-gritty of what it means to lead courageously, drawing from our collective scars and triumphs. We’ve got decades of experience between us, and as we've experienced, there’s no one-size-fits-all manual for this calling. We’ll explore the balance between external leadership and the internal work we need to do to truly be effective. So, whether you’re leading a team or just trying to steer your own ship, come along for some wisdom, a few laughs, and maybe even a new perspective on this whole leadership thing. Takeaways: Great leaders continuously learn and grow; nobody ever truly arrives at leadership mastery. Courage in leadership means being willing to follow others and learn from their strengths. Effective leadership is about lifting others up and fostering a collaborative environment. Leadership is an ongoing journey, marked by self-reflection and the courage to lead yourself.

    47 min
  4. The Great Mind Shift: Updating Romans 12:2

    3 APR

    The Great Mind Shift: Updating Romans 12:2

    Let’s kick things off with a real gem from Romans 12:2, which says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” This episode is all about embracing new thoughts and ideas that help us break free from the mundane and into something extraordinary. We’ll dive into how to process and resolve those “new thoughts” that come our way, whether they’re inspired by ancient wisdom or just everyday life experiences. Think of it like a mental refresh button – we’re here to chat about how to hit that button and discover what God’s good, pleasing, and perfect will looks like in our lives. So, grab your favorite beverage, kick back, and let’s get ready to expand our minds together! Takeaways: Transforming your mind is not just a one-time deal; it's a daily adventure of digging deeper and thinking differently! Don't let the world squeeze you into its mold; embrace the beauty of renewal and be the butterfly in your life! Cultivating a willingness to think differently opens the door to new possibilities and amazing transformations. Testing God's will means checking in with your heart and mind, not challenging God, but discovering what aligns with love and goodness.

    48 min
  5. Shattering Norms with Jon Paul Sydnor: The Great Open Dance

    27 MAR

    Shattering Norms with Jon Paul Sydnor: The Great Open Dance

    Get ready to shake up your perspective because today we’re diving deep into the wild world of progressive Christian theology with the one and only Jon Paul Sydnor, author of “The Great Open Dance.” Right off the bat, Jon Paul challenges us to rethink our understanding of God, the Trinity, and what it means to live in loving community. He’s all about breaking the mold and shaking up those old, tired norms that often box us in. Throughout our chat, we’ll explore how embracing love and unity can transform our lives and the world around us. So, grab your favorite beverage, kick back, and let’s get ready to dance through some thought-provoking ideas that might just shatter your expectations! Links referenced in this episode: substack.com/progressive-christian-theologybarnesandnoble.com -Link to the book. The Jon Paul Sydnor Exotic Cocktail-Courtesy of mixologist Coach Stu Trinity's Embrace 1.5oz Aged Rum 0.75oz Coconut Creme 0.5oz Honey Syrup 0.5oz Chartreuse Dash of orange bitters Combine ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Pour into a highball glass Garnish with an edible flower Takeaways: In this episode, we dive deep into Jon Paul's revolutionary ideas about progressive Christian theology, showcasing how he challenges traditional norms and invites us to think differently. Jon Paul emphasizes the importance of agape love, arguing that our inherited traditions often hinder the true expression of God's unconditional love for everyone. We learn that progressive theology is not a static tradition but a dynamic movement that encourages continuous growth and transformation in our understanding of faith. John Paul shares powerful examples from his life, emphasizing how community and cooperation can lead to profound spiritual experiences, akin to the unity of the Trinity. The discussion highlights the need for Christians to embrace discomfort in order to grow spiritually and collectively, illustrating that true growth often arises from challenging situations. Ultimately, we explore how Jon Paul’s insights can help us move towards a more inclusive and loving faith, bridging gaps between diverse communities and perspectives.

    1h 6m
  6. What If Life's Not a Script? Rethinking God's Plan

    20 MAR

    What If Life's Not a Script? Rethinking God's Plan

    What if life isn’t about following a strict plan, but rather about dancing with God in a creative partnership? This episode dives deep into that intriguing idea, suggesting that instead of a rigid blueprint, God invites us to co-create our lives, playing along with the choices we bring to the table. Picture it: even when we mess up—like when I accidentally wore mismatched socks to a meeting—there's potential for something beautiful to emerge from our blunders. We’ll explore how this perspective can reshape our understanding of life's ups and downs, and how God works through our experiences, weaving good out of even the messiest situations. So, grab your favorite drink, kick back, and let’s chat about how to embrace the chaos and craft a life that’s living, useful, and downright good! Questions from the episode: - Is God still creating? - How can bad things happen to good people? - Are we part of His new creation? - Did he just wind it up and leave it to run? Deism. - Is he still involved? To what extent? - Is there an extent to His love? - How you answer these questions determines, to a large extent, your worldview. - Plan of salvation through sacrifice and reconciliation. Takeaways: Life isn't about having a strict plan; it's about co-creating with God through our choices. God can make something beautiful even from our worst mistakes and ignorant blunders. We might feel like we're separated from God, but the truth is, we can't be separated from love itself. Asking the right questions about God's involvement can lead to a deeper understanding of our life journey.

    48 min
  7. Religion: The Roller Coaster of Faith and Fear

    13 MAR

    Religion: The Roller Coaster of Faith and Fear

    Religion can be a real roller coaster ride, can't it? In this chat, we're diving into the wild world of faith, exploring how it can be a source of community and purpose while also acknowledging that it can sometimes lead us down darker paths of dogma and fear. We're all about keeping it real, so we’ll take a look at the positives—like how religious practices can help foster connections and inspire a sense of belonging, as well as the not-so-great stuff that can pop up when beliefs become rigid and exclusionary. It’s all about finding that sweet middle ground, using love and discernment as our guiding lights. Let’s swap some thoughts and maybe even shake up how we see religion in our lives—because it’s all about keeping the conversation flowing and the hearts open! Mac's Medium Site: L.J. McDonald – Medium Takeaways: Religion can provide a strong sense of community and belonging, offering support in difficult times. It's essential to critically evaluate belief systems, balancing love and discernment to find truth. Dogma and fear-based practices can lead to harmful experiences, so questioning is key. Exploring diverse perspectives can enrich our understanding of spirituality and promote growth. Religious practices can inspire positive social change and moral guidance in our lives. Acknowledging the potential negatives of religion helps us cultivate a more compassionate worldview.

    48 min
  8. Seeker Sensitivity: What Are We Really Looking For?

    6 MAR

    Seeker Sensitivity: What Are We Really Looking For?

    What are we really seeking in life? This episode dives into the concept of being seeker-sensitive, exploring how modern churches have taken an age-old idea and made it their mantra. We’ll chat about what it means to be a seeker in today’s world—hint: it’s all about looking for something deeper, whether it’s purpose, connection, or even a good cup of coffee. We'll share some laughs, sprinkle in some wisdom, and encourage you to think about how we can all create a welcoming space for those on their own journeys. So, grab your favorite drink, kick back, and let’s figure this seeker thing out together! Takeaways: In this episode, we dive into the seeker-sensitive movement, exploring its roots and relevance today. Being a seeker means being open to experiencing life beyond your current understanding and comfort zone. We discuss the importance of emotional intelligence in engaging with seekers and fostering meaningful connections. The conversation emphasizes that community plays a crucial role in seeking and understanding one's purpose. Open-ended questions are essential for deepening conversations and encouraging others to share their journeys. We highlight the necessity of creating safe spaces for seekers to explore their faith without fear of judgment.

    47 min
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About

Do you ever find yourself feeling restless, dissatisfied, or curious about what lies beyond? Are you someone who questions established norms, strives to embrace your individuality, and craves an authentic existence? Welcome to The WizeGuys, a thought-provoking podcast hosted by Larry McDonald, a seasoned visionary, spiritual mentor, and unapologetic trailblazer. Join us as we explore the unconventional and challenge the conventional in religion, culture, philosophy and their impact on your everyday life. Larry and a diverse team of free-thinkers and special guests, such as The Rev, Coach Stu, and the Fierce Mystic Sorceress, will unveil and dissect dogmas, doctrines, and divisions that often hinder or distort spirituality and society. Our perspective is that everything has a spiritual dimension, and we'll apply this perspective to a wide range of societal norms and practices, providing alternative viewpoints to the mainstream narrative. Prepare to be inspired and encouraged to see the world differently as we venture to the frontier of the unconventional and beyond. Join us on this journey to expand your horizons and broaden your perspectives. Strap in and get ready to Step Over the Line!

Information

  • Creator
    Larry McDonald
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    57
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 Larry McDonald
  • Show Website
    The WizeGuys

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