Joystarters with Rachel Baribeau: Nurturing Faith, Finding Purpose, and Pursuing Joyful Living

Rachel Joy Baribeau

Find what brings you joy and live a life that is full of purpose and passion. Host, Rachel Joy Baribeau, is a former national sportscaster who travels the US speaking on mental health, joy, courage, and discovering purpose and passion. She knows firsthand how important it is to find what makes you happy and go for it. Whether you're just starting on your journey or you're looking for ways to make your current path more joyful, the Joystarters podcast is for you. Tune in today and start living your best life

  1. 3D AGO

    Dream Bigger. Heal Deeper. Live Wealthier.

    The I’m Changing the Narrative Retreat and Joy Ball are this week! So, we pulled excerpts from conversations with the speakers who will be joining us for the retreat. Every single person you’ll hear in this episode has walked through fire in their own way and now uses their story, their grit, and even their imperfections to help other people rise. You’ll hear from Laura Reed, international musician, who shares her journey from singing on the streets to writing at Sony—and why she chose integrity over a big paycheck. Laura talks about authenticity, activism, and the power of music to move the needle in people’s lives.  Jerremy Newsome joins us to talk about wealth in a way that goes far beyond money. Yes, he understands money at the highest levels and works with ultra-high-net-worth clients, but what he really teaches is energy—how we relate to money, fear, gratitude, and stewardship. He shares openly about losing millions of dollars (multiple times), what that taught him about gratitude, and the difference between making money, keeping money, and multiplying money. His perspective will challenge the way you think about abundance and possibility. Shannon and Shirley Austin of Marriage Inc. speak candidly about rebuilding their marriage after infidelity, heartbreak, and deep personal reckoning. What makes their message so powerful is that it’s not about fixing the other person. It’s about radical accountability and choosing principles that guide how you show up. They talk about learning to become a student of your spouse instead of their critic, and how real peace begins when you stop pointing the finger outward and start doing the inner work. Lindsay, our mindfulness and meditation guide, brings the conversation back to the brain and the body. She explains how visualization works on a scientific level—how the brain doesn’t know the difference between something vividly imagined and something experienced. Her work ties everything together: relationships, money, joy, healing. She reminds us that presence isn’t passive; it’s powerful. If you’ve been craving clarity, accountability, financial wisdom, relational growth, or simply a reminder that you’re not alone, this episode will give you a glimpse of what happens when people come together with intention. And if you’re already coming to the retreat or Joy Ball, we hope this prepares your heart for what’s ahead. 👉 JOY BALL TICKET AND DONATION LINK: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/im-changing-the-narrative-joy-ball RETREAT: https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/ictn-retreat Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    32 min
  2. Your Field of Dreams: Plow the Corn. Burn the Boats. No Plan B

    FEB 8

    Your Field of Dreams: Plow the Corn. Burn the Boats. No Plan B

    What if the dream in your heart didn’t come with a backup plan—because it wasn’t supposed to? This week on the Joystarters Podcast, Rachel takes us deep into one of her all-time favorite movies, Field of Dreams, and the message that has become her mantra during one of the most audacious seasons of her life: Plow the corn. Burn the boats. No plan B. From planning a retreat and gala that benefits her nonprofit, to wrestling with middle-of-the-night anxiety, this episode is a reminder that doubt doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong—it often means you’re doing something brave. Rachel also opens up about the painful truth many dreamers face: Some people will never understand your vision. They may be kind. They may love you. But they’re not your people when it comes to your dream—and that’s okay. This episode is both a gut-check and a love letter to anyone standing at the edge of their own Field of Dreams. RESOURCES: We would love to see you at the Joy Ball and I’m Changing the Narrative Retreat! If you can’t attend in person, would you consider a $5 donation to help the nonprofit: provide mental health resourcessponsor talks and live eventssend people to get counseling and supportdistribute bracelets, books, and resources to those in need👉 JOY BALL TICKET AND DONATION LINK: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/im-changing-the-narrative-joy-ball RETREAT: https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/ictn-retreat Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    23 min
  3. JR Harvey on The Power of Being Seen: Creating Spaces Where Men Heal

    FEB 1

    JR Harvey on The Power of Being Seen: Creating Spaces Where Men Heal

    In Part 2 of Rachel’s conversation with JR Harvey, the dialogue goes even deeper — into communication, emotional safety, grief, and what it truly takes to heal. They explore the complementary strengths of men and women, discussing how men often lead through doing while women bring depth through being, feeling, and nurturing connection. Together, they talk about why so many men struggle to communicate because vulnerability has often been met with shame or punishment. This episode also tackles: Why emotional safety is essential for real intimacyHow small practices (like writing things down) can change relationshipsThe lifelong impact of unprocessed grief and lossWhy acceptance is the turning point that allows life to move forward againHow pain, when shared, becomes purpose and leadershipRachel shares powerful stories from her own journey and from working with athletes and leaders, highlighting the importance of sacred spaces — places where people can take off the mask, be seen, and begin to heal. JR Harvey reinforces that community is not optional; it is essential for growth, especially for men who were taught to carry everything alone. This episode is a moving reminder that healing doesn’t happen in isolation — it happens in relationship. ✨ This is Part 2 of a two-part conversation. If you haven’t listened to Part 1 yet, be sure to start there — then come back to this episode to continue the journey. JR Harvey is the founder and leader of Kings Community, a thriving online brotherhood dedicated to helping men rebuild their confidence, leadership, and emotional resilience after life’s toughest challenges. Through mentorship, community support, and candid discussions about mental health, authentic masculinity, relationships, and personal growth, he has created a space where men can move past survival strategies and step into purposeful, values-driven lives. Under his leadership, Kings Community has grown into a meaningful network of tens of thousands of men who seek to break free from outdated coping patterns, embrace accountability, and support one another in becoming stronger, more confident, and emotionally grounded versions of themselves.  He shares personal insights and lessons publicly through social platforms like Instagram (@kings__community) and in interviews and podcasts, where he speaks openly about overcoming adversity, redefining strength, and helping men lead with integrity both in their relationships and in their own lives. RESOURCES: We would love to see you at the Joy Ball and I’m Changing the Narrative Retreat! If you can’t attend in person, would you consider a $5 donation to help the nonprofit: provide mental health resourcessponsor talks and live eventssend people to get counseling and supportdistribute bracelets, books, and resources to those in need👉 JOY BALL TICKET AND DONATION LINK: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/im-changing-the-narrative-joy-ball RETREAT: https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/ictn-retreat Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    20 min
  4. JR Harvey on Raising Kings: Masculinity, Mental Health, and the Power of Community

    JAN 25

    JR Harvey on Raising Kings: Masculinity, Mental Health, and the Power of Community

    Rachel sits down with JR Harvey, who shares how Kings Community was born out of his own pain and insecurity. Throughout the conversation, they reflect on how much confusion and pain comes from never being shown what healthy purpose, love, or leadership looks like in real life. Together, Rachel and JR unpack how doubt slowly becomes identity, how shame takes root, and why real healing begins at the roots rather than by trying to fix surface behavior. This conversation also explores: Why purpose is often found through painThe danger of tying identity to roles, careers, or relationshipsHow community interrupts isolationWhy healing men also lifts womenAnd why men and women need each otherThis episode is especially meaningful for anyone who cares about mental health, leadership, relationships, and breaking generational patterns. ✨ This is Part 1 of a two-part conversation. Be sure to come back next week for the continuation of this honest, healing dialogue. JR Harvey is the founder and leader of Kings Community, a thriving online brotherhood dedicated to helping men rebuild their confidence, leadership, and emotional resilience after life’s toughest challenges. Through mentorship, community support, and candid discussions about mental health, authentic masculinity, relationships, and personal growth, he has created a space where men can move past survival strategies and step into purposeful, values-driven lives. Under his leadership, Kings Community has grown into a meaningful network of tens of thousands of men who seek to break free from outdated coping patterns, embrace accountability, and support one another in becoming stronger, more confident, and emotionally grounded versions of themselves.  He shares personal insights and lessons publicly through social platforms like Instagram (@kings__community) and in interviews and podcasts, where he speaks openly about overcoming adversity, redefining strength, and helping men lead with integrity both in their relationships and in their own lives. RESOURCES: We would love to see you at the Joy Ball and I’m Changing the Narrative Retreat! If you can’t attend in person, would you consider a $5 donation to help the nonprofit: provide mental health resourcessponsor talks and live eventssend people to get counseling and supportdistribute bracelets, books, and resources to those in need👉 JOY BALL TICKET AND DONATION LINK: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/im-changing-the-narrative-joy-ball RETREAT: https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/ictn-retreat Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    32 min
  5. If You Build It: Community, Impact, and Hope

    JAN 18

    If You Build It: Community, Impact, and Hope

    This week’s episode is real life, recorded in pockets of time, stitched together with honesty, faith, and that unmistakable Joystarters energy. Rachel starts with what’s been sitting on her heart, including a sports moment that sparked a whole internet firestorm: Lynn Jones (Associate Editor, Jacksonville Free Press) taking a few seconds to speak life into Liam Coen after a gutting game. From there, the episode turns toward the deeper heartbeat behind I’m Changing the Narrative—what the nonprofit actually does beyond speeches and stage moments.  Rachel reads a letter from an athlete the I’m Changing the Narrative foundation helped during a hard patch for the player: job loss, housing instability, real-life crisis. The letter is a tearjerker, and it puts words to the mission in the clearest way possible: this is what support looks like when it’s real, relational, and rooted in faith. LINK FROM THIS EPISODE: Kulture City, the world’s leading nonprofit on sensory accessibility and acceptance.   RESOURCES: We would love to see you at the Joy Ball and I’m Changing the Narrative Retreat! If you can’t attend in person, would you consider a $5 donation to help the nonprofit: provide mental health resourcessponsor talks and live eventssend people to get counseling and supportdistribute bracelets, books, and resources to those in need👉 JOY BALL TICKET AND DONATION LINK: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/im-changing-the-narrative-joy-ball RETREAT: https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/ictn-retreat Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    44 min
  6. JayDee Milo on Keeping Family Stories Alive, Grief, and Memory

    JAN 11

    JayDee Milo on Keeping Family Stories Alive, Grief, and Memory

    Rachel sits down with JayDee Milo for a raw and deeply human conversation about what it means to use the internet for something that actually helps people. JayDee shares how his late mother, Sandy, shaped him, why her story became the foundation of his platform, and how grief and addiction recovery changed the trajectory of his life. They talk about why authenticity is magnetic right now, why people are exhausted by constant selling and overconsumption online, and they get real about how boundaries become a form of soul care. This episode is a love letter to single moms, to the people we’ve lost, and to the decision to choose better when you could have repeated the pattern.   Our Guest: JayDee Milo.   JayDee is a creator, advocate, and storyteller who built a massive online community by honoring his late mother’s story and speaking directly to the realities so many women live through, especially single moms and survivors of abuse. His platform blends humor and truth, and his message is rooted in dignity, accountability, and compassion.   Connect with JayDee Milo on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jaydee_milo and YouTube   RESOURCES: We would love to see you at the Joy Ball and I’m Changing the Narrative Retreat! If you can’t attend in person, would you consider a $5 donation to help the nonprofit: provide mental health resources sponsor talks and live events send people to get counseling and support distribute bracelets, books, and resources to those in need 👉 JOY BALL TICKET AND DONATION LINK: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/im-changing-the-narrative-joy-ball   RETREAT: https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/ictn-retreat       Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    41 min
  7. Audacious, Anniversary, Authenticity The Courage to Be Real

    JAN 4

    Audacious, Anniversary, Authenticity The Courage to Be Real

    Happy 2026, Joy Starters 🤍 This year isn’t starting with resolutions. It’s starting with an exhale. In this honest, unfiltered episode, talks about rest, realness, and what it means to unwind after years of pushing, performing, and powering through. She reflects on learning to be bored again, releasing guilt around rest, and choosing authenticity in a world that’s craving what’s real. This episode also marks a milestone: 10 years of I'm Changing the Narrative. What began in 2016 has grown into a movement rooted in faith, courage, and audacious energy. Throughout the year ahead, Rachel will celebrate the stories, people, and moments that have shaped this journey—while inviting you to begin changing the narrative in your own life. If you’ve been feeling the pull to slow down, live fully, and show up as your real self, this episode is for you. Welcome to 2026. Welcome to the year of real. 💛 RESOURCES: We would love to see you at the Joy Ball and I’m Changing the Narrative Retreat! If you can’t attend in person, would you consider a $5 donation to help the nonprofit: provide mental health resourcessponsor talks and live eventssend people to get counseling and supportdistribute bracelets, books, and resources to those in need👉 JOY BALL TICKET AND DONATION LINK: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/im-changing-the-narrative-joy-ball RETREAT: https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/ictn-retreat Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    27 min
  8. Music as Medicine: Laura Reed Shares How to Stay True When the World Pulls You

    12/28/2025

    Music as Medicine: Laura Reed Shares How to Stay True When the World Pulls You

    This is a throwback Sunday Soul episode we are pulling from the archives because it’s with international musician, Laura Reed, who will be with us at the I’m Changing the Narrative Retreat in February 2026. Rachel sits down with Laura Reed for a conversation about what it was like growing up between cultures — never fully “from” one place — and how she learned to love the parts of herself she once tried to shrink. They talk about the pressure to conform (especially for women), why Laura refused to dilute her message even when the industry pushed her to, and how she defines success as staying true — and keeping the lights on doing what she loves. This episode is a reminder that your story doesn’t have to fit in one box to be valid — you can be made of many people and still be whole. Laura Reed will also be joining us at the Retreat — and after you listen, you’ll understand exactly why she belongs in this room. We'd love to have you at the I'm Changing the Narrative Retreat and Joy Ball.  If you can’t attend in person, Rachel is asking every follower to consider a $5 donation to help the nonprofit: provide mental health resourcessponsor talks and live eventssend people to get counseling and supportdistribute bracelets, books, and resources to those in need👉 JOY BALL TICKET AND DONATION LINK: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/im-changing-the-narrative-joy-ball RETREAT: https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/ictn-retreat   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    57 min
5
out of 5
27 Ratings

About

Find what brings you joy and live a life that is full of purpose and passion. Host, Rachel Joy Baribeau, is a former national sportscaster who travels the US speaking on mental health, joy, courage, and discovering purpose and passion. She knows firsthand how important it is to find what makes you happy and go for it. Whether you're just starting on your journey or you're looking for ways to make your current path more joyful, the Joystarters podcast is for you. Tune in today and start living your best life