Bold Journeys Podcast

Rob Spee
  • 4.8 (13)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Biweekly

All around us, people are overcoming extraordinary challenges. Where do they find the resilience and perseverance to move forward? At Bold Journeys, we share stories of grit, adventure, and faith from those whose journeys have both tested them and shaped who they've become. Hosted by Rob Spee, each episode of the podcast explores the resilience it takes to carry on – offering encouragement, perspective, and a reminder of what's possible. We seek guests who've walked through the fire, whether it's a challenge they chose like climbing Mt. Everest, or a knock-down punch life throws at you. If you're ready to reflect, grow, and live boldly... you're in the right place. 🎙️New episodes every Tuesday

  1. 14h ago

    From Struggles to Triumphs: Adventures on the Appalachian Trail – Part 2

    In this episode of Bold Journeys, we continue our conversation with Appalachian Trail thru‑hiker Jason Turner, whose 2,000‑mile trek reshaped his faith, his resilience, and his understanding of what truly matters. Known on the trail as Fancy Feet after a stumble that turned into a quick recovery, Jason's story is equal parts grit, humility, and spiritual awakening. This second part dives deeper into the moments that tested him — physically, emotionally, and spiritually — and the lessons he carried home. What We Cover in This Episode • Near‑Hypothermia & Hard Lessons Jason shares the night that pushed him to the edge and forced him to confront his limits. It's a raw look at how adversity clarifies what's essential. • Emotional Resilience Over Physical Pain The loneliness of the trail became the real battleground. Jason opens up about the emotional lows and how perseverance shaped his character. • Nature's Quiet Healing From sunrise stillness to shared campfires, Jason found God's presence in the quiet places. The trail became a space for spiritual and emotional restoration. • Minimalism & Simplicity Living with less taught Jason to appreciate the basics. He returned home with a renewed desire for a life not defined by material excess. • Human Connection & Community The trail brought strangers who became teachers, friends, and spiritual companions. Jason reflects on the power of authentic connection. • Stepping Beyond Comfort Zones Jason's journey is a reminder that growth happens when we choose courage over comfort and trust God with the unknown. Key Takeaway Jason's story is more than a hiking recap — it's a call to action. A reminder that the dreams we label "too big" or "too risky" might just require one bold step of faith. Join the Journey If this story energized you, share it with your adventurous friends and join our journey:   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@boldjourneysco Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boldjourneysco/ Through The Fire Newsletter: https://boldjourneys.co/subscribe/ Chapters 00:00 The Night Everything Went Wrong 00:25 Picking Up Where We Left Off 03:06 Storms, Survival, and a Close Call 08:25 Trail Hazards You Don't See Coming 11:50 Views That Make the Pain Worth It 15:55 Faith Moments That Changed Him 27:45 Returning to Real‑World Comforts 28:46 Are Post‑Trail Blues Real? 30:38 Facing the Big Question: What Now? 33:11 Living Intentionally After the AT 36:39 Rapid‑Fire: Dangers You Should Know 43:16 Trail Names, Faith Talks, and Final Wisdom

    From Struggles to Triumphs: Adventures on the Appalachian Trail – Part 2

  2. Sep 1

    From Struggles to Triumphs: Adventures on the Appalachian Trail – Part 1

    In Part 1 of this two‑episode conversation, adventure seeker Jason Turner opens up about the raw, unfiltered reality of hiking the Appalachian Trail — 2,197.9 miles from Georgia to Maine. This isn't a highlight reel. It's the honest story of doubt, loneliness, faith, and the grit required to keep moving through the pain.  Jason shares the emotional lows that hit early, including the moment he called his wife and admitted he wasn't sure he could continue. From there, the trail became a classroom — teaching him about connection, vulnerability, and the courage it takes to step into the unknown. What We Cover in Part 1 The emotional crash that nearly ended Jason's journey How loneliness became one of the toughest challenges on the trail The role faith played in helping him push forward The early physical battles — bruised feet, worn‑down shoes, and the grind of millions of steps Why slowing down became a crucial part of his endurance Why This Episode Matters Jason's story is a reminder that every bold journey includes struggle. The breakthrough often comes after the moment you think you can't go any further. Jason's honesty sets the stage for a powerful Part 2, where we explore the climb to Katahdin and the triumph that made every step worth it. If you've ever faced a challenge that pushed you to your limits, this episode will speak directly to you. Join the Journey If this story energized you, share it with your adventurous friends and join our journey:   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@boldjourneysco Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boldjourneysco/ Through The Fire Newsletter: https://boldjourneys.co/subscribe/ Chapters 00:00 The Moment Doubt Hit  00:23 A Glimpse of What's Coming  02:04 Who Is Jason Turner?  02:21 Tracking the Impossible  03:39 Standing at the Finish  04:56 What Pain Teaches You  07:16 Life After the Trail  08:43 Why Rest Days Matter  09:51 The Weight of Being Alone  10:43 Night Fear Is Real  11:41 The Dream That Started It All  15:42 A Calling You Can't Ignore  20:22 Healing You Don't Expect  21:30 Who Actually Makes It?  22:58 Inside the Hiker Bubble  25:37 Miles, Age, and Reality  27:44 The First Step at Springer  29:12 Loneliness Changes Everything

    From Struggles to Triumphs: Adventures on the Appalachian Trail – Part 1

  3. Aug 18

    Finding Freedom in Recovery: A Journey from Addiction to Acceptance

    Chances are you know someone in your family or circle of friends and colleagues who has battled an addiction. This week on the Bold Journeys Podast, Cesar Wurm — author of The Powers of Addiction — opens up about his battle with alcoholism, the generational patterns that shaped him, and the moment he finally chose sobriety. From growing up with an alcoholic father in Brazil to living a double life as a "fun guy" in the hospitality industry, Cesar walks us through the hidden cost of addiction and the breakthrough that saved his life. Cesar grew up watching addiction shape his family, and for years he carried that same pattern into adulthood — quietly, successfully, and completely hidden from the world. In this conversation, he pulls back the curtain on the double life he built, the physical and emotional breaking points he could no longer outrun, and the moment he finally faced the truth about who he was becoming. He talks openly about the role his wife played and how AA helped him rebuild his identity from the inside out. If you've ever battled something in silence or felt trapped by expectations, Cesar's journey will hit you hard — and leave you wanting to hear the rest of the story. Key Takeaways Addiction is subtle until it's not. It creeps in quietly and becomes a lifestyle before you realize it. Compassion and accountability work together. Real change requires both. Faith and community matter. Cesar found strength through AA, his sponsor, and a higher power. Self‑acceptance is freedom. When you stop performing and stop hiding, you start healing. About Cesar Wurm Cesar Wurm is the author of The Powers of Addiction and a hospitality industry professional who rebuilt his life through sobriety, faith, and the support of his family. His mission is to help others recognize the signs of addiction and find the courage to pursue recovery. Join the Journey If this episode hit home for you, share it with someone who needs hope today.   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@boldjourneysco Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boldjourneysco/ Through The Fire Newsletter: https://boldjourneys.co/subscribe/ Chapters 00:00 The Hidden Routine That Fueled His Addiction  03:06 Addiction in Plain Sight 06:47 Is It Genetics or Choice? 09:52 How Early Drinking Set a Trap He Didn't See Coming  12:33 The Grief He Buried — And How It Started to Surface  16:04 Blackouts, Success, and the Illusion of Control  21:21 A Fresh Start in America  27:04 The Denial That Kept Him Drinking 29:27 How Every Day Became a Strategy to Stay Drunk  38:10 The Breaking Point: What Finally Forced Change  41:36 Is Addiction a Disease or a Decision? 42:24 Relapse, Shame, and the Power of Compassion  43:28 The Wake‑Up Call That Changed Everything  45:23 Why Sponsors Matter More Than You Think  46:37 Finding a Higher Power When You Don't Want One  01:09:40 A Challenge to Anyone Fighting Their Own Battle

    Finding Freedom in Recovery: A Journey from Addiction to Acceptance

  4. Aug 4

    Beyond the Barrier: Physical, Mental, and Spiritual Success — Part 2

    In Part 2 of my conversation with endurance athlete and performance coach JD Tremblay, we go deeper into what it really takes to break through the barriers holding you back — physically, mentally, and spiritually. JD opens up about the systems he built through ultra‑endurance racing, the faith that kept him moving when everything in him wanted to quit, and the moment he realized his "normal" wasn't normal at all. That realization pushed him into a new mission: helping others find clarity, align their actions with their values, and pursue goals that actually change their lives. We talk about: Why faith becomes fuel when you're facing failure How the right community can accelerate your growth Breaking mental barriers that keep you stuck Aligning your daily actions with the future you're building What it means to set goals that scare you — and why you should If you're ready to push past your own limits and step into the next chapter of your journey, this episode will give you the clarity and challenge you need. Join the Journey  If this conversation resonates, subscribe for more stories of grit, adventure, and faith — and share it with someone who needs strength today. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@boldjourneysco Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boldjourneysco/ Through The Fire Newsletter: https://boldjourneys.co/subscribe/ Chapters 00:00 Choosing Faith Over Failure 04:13 The Secret to Training Less & Gaining More 06:47 From an EpicDeca to New Mission 14:51 The "Hungry Warrior" Origin Story 23:08 How to Build an Unstoppable Mindset 26:19 Why Even High-Achievers Burn Out  27:07 The "EPIC" Identity Shift 27:38 How Community Actually Saves Lives 29:28 The 4 Pillars of the DECA Framework 29:55 Using Structure to Build Discipline 31:59 How to Fuel Your Journey Correctly 34:06 Finding Your Career Capacity 39:13 Your Action Challenge 49:03 Set a Goal That Scares You

    Beyond the Barrier: Physical, Mental, and Spiritual Success — Part 2

  5. Jul 28

    Beyond the High: Reclaiming Purpose with John Graham - Part 2

    Part 2 of my conversation with John Graham picks up where the chaos left off. After years of chasing danger, John finally has to face the fallout. He's led on a spiritual journey and a moment at sea that forces him to choose what kind of man he is going to be. This episode gets into the turning point: how he confronted his past, how he rebuilt himself, and how he committed to a life of service instead of adrenaline. In This Episode Vietnam, PTSD, and the emotional work he could no longer avoid How encounter groups pushed him to confront himself The unexpected spiritual path that cracked him open The typhoon off Alaska that nearly killed him The decision that changed his direction How the Giraffe Heroes Project gave him a mission and a place to serve If you missed Part 1, go back and listen — it sets the stage for everything John reveals here. Stay Connected If these conversations help you think deeper and live with more clarity, make sure you're plugged in: Subscribe to the Bold Journeys Newsletter for weekly insights and episode updates Subscribe on YouTube for full episodes and clips Follow on Instagram for behind‑the‑scenes content and daily encouragement Your support helps this show reach more people who need these conversations. Chapters 00:00 Part Two Setup 02:34 Vietnam Homecoming PTSD 03:27 Encounter Group Breakthrough 10:34 Out of Body Experiences 15:58 The Sign and Healing 21:43 Cruise Ship Fire 28:41 Panic in the Lifeboat 30:03 Dawn Rescue Attempts 34:04 A Choice with God 36:32 Founding Giraffe Heroes 41:35 Badass Granddad Goes Viral 47:14 Finding Meaning and Grace

    Beyond the High: Reclaiming Purpose with John Graham - Part 2

  6. Jul 14

    Chasing the Next Peak Nearly Cost Him Everything - Part 1

    In Part 1 of my conversation with adventurer John Graham, we dig into his early years where adrenaline drove his decisions and danger became his drug of choice. John's early life was shaped by a need to prove himself. That led him to mountain climbing, revolutions, and war zones. The more extreme the situation, the more alive he felt—and the further his moral compass drifted. This episode sets the stage for Part 2, where we get into the moments that forced him to confront who he'd become and the amazing story of how he finally found purpose. In This Episode How a summer job at 17 blew up the "safe path" he was expected to follow The early experiences that fueled his need to prove his toughness Why dangerous situations became an addictive escape The point where adrenaline started steering his life The point he know he lost his moral compass Listen to Part 2 coming next Part 2 dives into John's career in the State Department, the moral reckoning, and his shift toward purpose. Stay Connected If you're enjoying these stories of grit, adventure and faith, be sure to follow along on our other channels: Subscribe to the Bold Journeys Newsletter for weekly insights and episode updates Subscribe on YouTube for full episodes and clips Follow on Instagram for behind‑the‑scenes content and daily encouragement Your support helps this show reach more people who can benefit from these inspirational stories. Chapters 00:00 First Lesson in Manhood 10:13 Catholic Mom's Dilemma 13:00 Hitchhiking into War 15:13 Foreign Legion Lessons 16:38 Denali North Wall Ascent 21:12 Brushes with Death 29:04 Avalanche Aftermath 29:29 Ricochet Wall Legacy 31:28 Adrenaline Addiction 32:48 Hitchhiking Into Wars 34:13 Laos CIA Nightlife 36:59 Love Versus Toughness 42:47 James Bond Diplomacy 51:14 Hue Moral Reckoning

    Chasing the Next Peak Nearly Cost Him Everything - Part 1

  7. Jun 30

    Jesus' Resurrection: Does the History Actually Hold Up?

    In this episode of Bold Journeys, we dig into one of the most important questions anyone wrestling with faith eventually faces: Is there real historical evidence for the resurrection of Jesus? New Testament scholar and author Dr. Mike Licona shares his personal battle with doubt, the research that reshaped his faith, and the historical case that convinced him the resurrection wasn't just a belief — it was an event grounded in eyewitness testimony and early Christian records. We talk through Paul's transformation, external historical sources, debates with skeptics, and why alternative explanations fall apart when you actually pressure‑test them. This conversation is honest, direct, and built for anyone navigating questions about faith, truth, and the foundation of Christianity. In This Episode Licona's journey through doubt The historical case for the resurrection Paul's testimony and early Christian creeds External sources: Josephus, Tacitus, and more How personal experience and evidence work together Stay Connected If these conversations help you think deeper and live with more clarity, make sure you're plugged in: Subscribe to the Bold Journeys Newsletter for weekly insights and episode updates Subscribe on YouTube for full episodes and clips Follow on Instagram for behind‑the‑scenes content and daily encouragement Your support helps this show reach more people who want more conversations on grit, faith and adventure. Chapters 00:00 Doubting the Resurrection 01:38 Meet Mike Licona 04:35 Campus Questions Today 09:22 Childhood and Conversion 15:38 From Music to Ministry 28:19 Researching the Evidence 35:50 Debate Prep Mindset 36:56 Did Jesus Exist 40:20 Resurrection Case Starts With Paul 47:01 Martyrdom And Eyewitness Claims 51:26 James Skeptic To Believer

    Jesus' Resurrection: Does the History Actually Hold Up?

  8. Jun 16

    Most People Quit Here. JD Kept Going. - Part 1

    In this Part 1 episode of Bold Journeys, we get real about what it means to push yourself — not for bragging rights, not for a medal, but because sometimes your life depends on it. For some people, a daily workout is enough to stay grounded. For others, like JD Tremblay, the dial has to be turned all the way up. That's how he ended up taking on 10 Ironman triathlons in 10 days — an extreme challenge that matched the intensity of what he was fighting on the inside. This isn't a story about being superhuman. It's a story about finding yourself, learning what kind of challenge wakes you up, pulls you out of the dark, and forces you to rebuild. Physical struggle has a way of stripping everything down and pull you out of the darkness. You don't need to be an Ironman Triathlete to get something out of this episode. What matters is finding the level of challenge that pushes you — the version that makes you sharper, clearer, and more alive. JD's journey proves that when you push your limits, you don't just get stronger, you may just get your life back. Join the Journey If this conversation resonates, subscribe for more stories of grit, adventure, and faith — and share it with someone who needs strength today. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@boldjourneysco Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boldjourneysco/ Through The Fire Newsletter: https://boldjourneys.co/subscribe/ Chapters 00:00 Intro: JD's Calling 00:26 Ironman as Escape 03:06 Roots and Childhood 03:55 Divorce and Enlistment 06:49 Child Star Spotlight 09:23 Military Culture Shock 12:33 Leaving Service for School 15:33 Identity Crisis and Depression 19:45 Untrained Ironman Breakthrough 21:46 Coaching and Ultraman Rise 27:52 Epic Deca Decision 36:28 Epic Deca Lessons and Mission

    Most People Quit Here. JD Kept Going. - Part 1
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4.8
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

All around us, people are overcoming extraordinary challenges. Where do they find the resilience and perseverance to move forward? At Bold Journeys, we share stories of grit, adventure, and faith from those whose journeys have both tested them and shaped who they've become. Hosted by Rob Spee, each episode of the podcast explores the resilience it takes to carry on – offering encouragement, perspective, and a reminder of what's possible. We seek guests who've walked through the fire, whether it's a challenge they chose like climbing Mt. Everest, or a knock-down punch life throws at you. If you're ready to reflect, grow, and live boldly... you're in the right place. 🎙️New episodes every Tuesday

Information

  • Creator
    Rob Spee
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    26
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved
  • Show Website
    Bold Journeys Podcast

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