Conversations with Buddy

Buddy Puckett

Welcome to Conversations with Buddy, where you will hear the stories of everyday people fighting through life’s challenges for meaning and purpose. From fear to faith, struggles to success, trials, and tribulations to triumph and victory. Where did they muster the courage to overcome and where does their hope come from? What is the lesson life has taught each of these people who share their stories and then be willing to share it with the world?

  1. 3d ago

    Ep. 205 Al Garing - Living Unashamed, Authenticity over Perfection!

    Al’s journey began in the Philippines before moving to the United States in 2002 to teach Shotokan Karate. 🥋 That opportunity changed his life forever—not only did it launch a new career, but it also led him to meeting his wife. More than 22 years later, they’re still building a beautiful life together with their two daughters. ❤️👨‍👩‍👧‍👧 💪 Discipline has always been at the center of Al’s life. From karate to journaling, fasting, accountability, and staying consistent, he believes success comes from showing up every day. His advice? “Just get up and do it!” 🚀 Eliminate the noise, stay focused, and never stop growing. 👓 After karate, Al followed his family’s legacy into the eye care profession. With his mother and sister both being optometrists in the Philippines, serving others has always been part of his story. Whether at work or in life, his heart is to help people see more clearly—in more ways than one. 🙌 ✝️ Everything changed on November 5, 2017, when Al became a born-again Christian. Through friends, Scripture, and God’s grace, he discovered that true purpose is found in Jesus. 📖 “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” — John 14:6 🔥 This episode is packed with wisdom about faith, family, perseverance, and living with purpose. Al’s message is simple: It’s all about HIM. ❤️ Share your testimony, stay faithful, and remember—you can either let life make you or break you. Choose Jesus. 🙏 #Jesusfollower #faith #focus #conversationswithbuddy 🙏 Subscribe to Conversations with Buddy for more conversations that inspire faith, leadership, and impact. The Gospel is “good news”… The Bible says in 1 Corinthians 15: 3-4, “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures.” _ _ _ For more stories like this, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@BuddyJamesPuckett If you or someone you know want to be on the podcast, please reach out to me on Instagram @conversationswithbuddy or text me at 503-851-8031.  _ _ _ About Buddy Puckett:Buddy Puckett has been in the mortgage and finance space and mentoring men for over 25 years.  A mentoring opportunity all started when he first began in the mortgage industry in 1998, when he began to mentor a younger guy who happened to be married.  This person was not making great choices and it was sadly affecting his marriage.  We all are 1 decision away from something really dumb, so accountability became something Buddy knew he needed as well.  Buddy’s wife, Shawn, suggested he start a podcast in 2022 to share the stories of people who have struggled,failed, overcame by realizing the life of love, joy and peace is only available through a relationship with Jesus Christ!  “Jesus said to him, ’I am the way, and the truth and the life; no one comes to the Father except through Me’.” John 14:6 Buddy Puckett NMLS #270057, Arizona BK#0018883, AZ LO-1032154; OR ML-176 For more licensing information, please visit www.guildmortgage.com/licensing. The positions, strategies or opinions of the author do not necessarily represent the positions, strategies or opinions of Guild Mortgage Company or its affiliates. Guild Mortgage Company: Equal Housing Opportunity, NMLS #3274 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

  2. Jul 10

    Ep. 204 Michael Allen Clark - Time fixes all things!

    In this episode of Conversations with Buddy, Michael shares the principles that have shaped his life, leadership, marriage, and parenting. Michael explains why the strongest leaders are humble, authentic, and courageous enough to remove the masks they wear.  His message is simple but powerful: real men are brave enough to cry, ask for help, and live with honesty. Michael opens up about marriage, explaining that while it may not always get easier, it absolutely gets better when both people continue to show up for each other. Simply watching his parents faithfully support their family, those lessons became the foundation for the man he is today. The conversation also explores purpose, time, and personal growth. Michael discusses overcoming the feeling of falling behind, learning to stop trying to control everything, finding mentors, investing in coaching, and discovering his gifts! His challenge is clear: do hard things, double down on your strengths, and don’t be afraid to ask for guidance from people who have already walked the path. From training for a local Ironman to transforming leaders and raising a family, Michael’s story is one of intentional growth and unwavering commitment. If you’re looking for practical wisdom on leadership, relationships, purpose, and becoming the person you’re called to be, this episode will challenge you to stop waiting, make a decision, and take action today. Connect with Michael through Instagram @michaelallenclark or his website at: michaelallenclark.com #coach #committed #perserverance #doubledown #ironman #conversationswithbuddy 🙏 Subscribe to Conversations with Buddy for more conversations that inspire faith, leadership, and impact. The Gospel is “good news”… The Bible says in 1 Corinthians 15: 3-4, “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures.” _ _ _ For more stories like this, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@BuddyJamesPuckett If you or someone you know want to be on the podcast, please reach out to me on Instagram @conversationswithbuddy or text me at 503-851-8031.  _ _ _ About Buddy Puckett:Buddy Puckett has been in the mortgage and finance space and mentoring men for over 25 years.  A mentoring opportunity all started when he first began in the mortgage industry in 1998, when he began to mentor a younger guy who happened to be married.  This person was not making great choices and it was sadly affecting his marriage.  We all are 1 decision away from something really dumb, so accountability became something Buddy knew he needed as well.  Buddy’s wife, Shawn, suggested he start a podcast in 2022 to share the stories of people who have struggled,failed, overcame by realizing the life of love, joy and peace is only available through a relationship with Jesus Christ!  “Jesus said to him, ’I am the way, and the truth and the life; no one comes to the Father except through Me’.” John 14:6 Buddy Puckett NMLS #270057, Arizona BK#0018883, AZ LO-1032154; OR ML-176 For more licensing information, please visit www.guildmortgage.com/licensing. The positions, strategies or opinions of the author do not necessarily represent the positions, strategies or opinions of Guild Mortgage Company or its affiliates. Guild Mortgage Company: Equal Housing Opportunity, NMLS #3274 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

  3. Jul 3

    Ep. 203 Mayra Rocha - The Sky is the Limit: Building a Business Rooted in Values!

    Mayra’s story is one of purpose, growth, and building a legacy. As the Owner and Principal Broker of Rocha Realty LLC, she’s passionate about helping families achieve homeownership and create generational wealth. But beyond real estate, Mayra’s greatest role is being a mom to her two daughters, who inspire nearly every decision she makes.  Throughout our conversation, she shared why the journey matters just as much as the destination, and how being the “CEO of your family” begins with knowing your values and your motives. Today, she and her husband also help operate Arialo Reforestation, a business whose name combines the first three letters of each of their daughters’ names—a meaningful reminder that family is at the center of everything they build. From starting a Christmas tree farm to teaching their girls responsibility through a summer vegetable stand, Mayra believes some of life’s greatest lessons are learned by working together and growing something that lasts. We discussed the power of surrounding yourself with the right people, giving yourself grace, staying focused on your values, and creating intentional strategic plans for both your business and your life. Great books like Atomic Habits and tools like DISC have helped shape her leadership and decision-making along the way. As we wrapped up, Mayra challenged listeners to think beyond today’s success and ask where they want to be 20 years from now. Instead of dwelling on obstacles, she encouraged us to celebrate the wins, keep learning, and never stop growing.  Whether she’s serving clients, raising her daughters, or cultivating her garden, Mayra reminds us that the seeds we plant today can become the legacy we leave tomorrow. Her story is a powerful reminder that with purpose, perseverance, and the right people around you, the sky truly is the limit. To connect with Mayra, reach out through her socials and or website: - Facebook - @rocharealtyllc- https://www.rocharealty.net/ #JesusFollower #faith #purpose #family #realestate #committed #perserverance #conversationswithbuddy 🙏 Subscribe to Conversations with Buddy for more conversations that inspire faith, leadership, and impact. The Gospel is “good news”… The Bible says in 1 Corinthians 15: 3-4, “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures.” _ _ _ For more stories like this, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@BuddyJamesPuckett If you or someone you know want to be on the podcast, please reach out to me on Instagram @conversationswithbuddy or text me at 503-851-8031.  _ _ _ About Buddy Puckett:Buddy Puckett has been in the mortgage and finance space and mentoring men for over 25 years.  A mentoring opportunity all started when he first began in the mortgage industry in 1998, when he began to mentor a younger guy who happened to be married.  This person was not making great choices and it was sadly affecting his marriage.  We all are 1 decision away from something really dumb, so accountability became something Buddy knew he needed as well.  Buddy’s wife, Shawn, suggested he start a podcast in 2022 to share the stories of people who have struggled,failed, overcame by realizing the life of love, joy and peace is only available through a relationship with Jesus Christ!  “Jesus said to him, ’I am the way, and the truth and the life; no one comes to the Father except through Me’.” John 14:6 Buddy Puckett NMLS #270057, Arizona BK#0018883, AZ LO-1032154; OR ML-176 For more licensing information, please visit www.guildmortgage.com/licensing. The positions, strategies or opinions of the author do not necessarily represent the positions, strategies or opinions of Guild Mortgage Company or its affiliates. Guild Mortgage Company: Equal Housing Opportunity, NMLS #3274 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

  4. Jun 26

    Ep. 202 Jared Virtue - Reigniting a neglected faith!

    Jared is a guy who is focused on achievement, discipline, and success, but beneath the surface his faith had slowly become neglected. In this episode, Jared shares how rediscovering his relationship with Jesus is an important part of his life! To help him reconnect with a bigger vision for his life—one rooted in purpose, identity, and intentional living. From lessons learned in marriage and family to the importance of discipline, mentorship, and personal growth, Jared explains why success isn’t about keeping score or chasing quick wins. It’s about showing up, doing the work, and becoming the person God created you to be. This conversation explores faith, purpose, leadership, and the daily habits that shape our future. Jared’s story is a reminder that sometimes the worst best thing that happens to us becomes the catalyst for finding our true identity and calling. To connect with Jared, go to: https://www.northwesternmutual.com/financial/advisor/jared-virtue/ #JesusFollower #faith #purpose #virtue #conversationswithbuddy 🙏 Subscribe to Conversations with Buddy for more conversations that inspire faith, leadership, and impact. The Gospel is “good news”… The Bible says in 1 Corinthians 15: 3-4, “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures.” _ _ _ For more stories like this, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@BuddyJamesPuckett If you or someone you know want to be on the podcast, please reach out to me on Instagram @conversationswithbuddy or text me at 503-851-8031.  _ _ _ About Buddy Puckett:Buddy Puckett has been in the mortgage and finance space and mentoring men for over 25 years.  A mentoring opportunity all started when he first began in the mortgage industry in 1998, when he began to mentor a younger guy who happened to be married.  This person was not making great choices and it was sadly affecting his marriage.  We all are 1 decision away from something really dumb, so accountability became something Buddy knew he needed as well.  Buddy’s wife, Shawn, suggested he start a podcast in 2022 to share the stories of people who have struggled,failed, overcame by realizing the life of love, joy and peace is only available through a relationship with Jesus Christ!  “Jesus said to him, ’I am the way, and the truth and the life; no one comes to the Father except through Me’.” John 14:6 Buddy Puckett NMLS #270057, Arizona BK#0018883, AZ LO-1032154; OR ML-176 For more licensing information, please visit www.guildmortgage.com/licensing. The positions, strategies or opinions of the author do not necessarily represent the positions, strategies or opinions of Guild Mortgage Company or its affiliates. Guild Mortgage Company: Equal Housing Opportunity, NMLS #3274 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

  5. Jun 19

    Ep. 201 Jacob Small - A family I didn’t know I needed!

    ⚾ Jacob Small’s story is one of growth, faith, and finding purpose. Growing up, baseball was a huge part of his life. He spent much of his life living with his grandparents and navigating some difficult seasons that helped shape who he is today. Through those experiences, Jacob learned resilience, perseverance, and the importance of having people who believe in you. ❤️ One of the biggest blessings in Jacob’s life has been his wife, Ericka. Their growing family has brought incredible joy, laughter, and purpose.  Jacob shares how family has transformed his perspective and given him a deeper appreciation for what truly matters. 🙏 Over the last couple years, Jacob’s relationship with Jesus has grown tremendously. What started as a journey of faith has become a passion for pursuing Christ wholeheartedly. Surrounded by strong accountability, leadership, and a “family he didn’t know he needed”.  💪 Through life, work, marriage, fatherhood, and faith, Jacob has learned the importance of reevaluating priorities, locking in on what matters most, and stepping into his role as a protector and leader. His story is a reminder that God often meets us exactly where we are and continues to shape us into who He created us to be. ✨ Jacob’s message is simple but powerful: Trust in the Lord and let Him work in you. No matter your past, God can use every part of your story for a greater purpose. #JesusFollower #faith #purpose #family #conversationswithbuddy 🙏 Subscribe to Conversations with Buddy for more conversations that inspire faith, leadership, and impact. _ _ _ For more stories like this, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@BuddyJamesPuckett If you or someone you know want to be on the podcast, please reach out to me on Instagram @conversationswithbuddy or text me at 503-851-8031.  _ _ _ About Buddy Puckett:Buddy Puckett has been in the mortgage and finance space and mentoring men for over 25 years.  A mentoring opportunity all started when he first began in the mortgage industry in 1998, when he began to mentor a younger guy who happened to be married.  This person was not making great choices and it was sadly affecting his marriage.  We all are 1 decision away from something really dumb, so accountability became something Buddy knew he needed as well.  Buddy’s wife, Shawn, suggested he start a podcast in 2022 to share the stories of people who have struggled,failed, overcame by realizing the life of love, joy and peace is only available through a relationship with Jesus Christ!  “Jesus said to him, ’I am the way, and the truth and the life; no one comes to the Father except through Me’.” John 14:6 Buddy Puckett NMLS #270057, Arizona BK#0018883, AZ LO-1032154; OR ML-176 For more licensing information, please visit www.guildmortgage.com/licensing. The positions, strategies or opinions of the author do not necessarily represent the positions, strategies or opinions of Guild Mortgage Company or its affiliates. Guild Mortgage Company: Equal Housing Opportunity, NMLS #3274 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

  6. Jun 12

    Ep. 200 Jacob Espinoza - How parties will save the world!

    🎉 Episode 200 is here, and what better way to celebrate than with Jacob Espinoza! Jacob is a coach, leader, mentor, influencer, and one of the biggest champions for the Salem community.  From building What’s Happening Salem into a platform with tens of thousands of followers to helping create meaningful connections through events and third spaces, Jacob shares his vision for bringing people together. 🙌🏽🏙️ We dive into the story behind What’s Happening Salem, and projects like Salem Center Mall, The Cannery, and how empathy and compassion have shaped his leadership journey. 💡❤️ Jacob also shares his involvement with The Forge, his passion for creating opportunities for people to connect in person, and why there are no easy answers when it comes to community growth. His willingness to take risks, learn from failure, and keep moving forward has made a lasting impact on Salem. 🚀🔥 From favorite travel destinations, family adventures, this conversation is packed with wisdom, humor, and inspiration.  One thing is clear: Jacob isn’t afraid to think differently and “get weird with it!” 🎪⚾😄 Thank you, Jacob, for helping us celebrate Episode 200 and for your commitment to making Salem a stronger, more connected community. This is a conversation you won’t want to miss! #JesusFollower #faith #purpose   #WhatsHappeningSalem #SalemOregon #Episode200 #conversationswithbuddy 🙏 Subscribe to Conversations with Buddy for more conversations that inspire faith, leadership, and impact. _ _ _ For more stories like this, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@BuddyJamesPuckett If you or someone you know want to be on the podcast, please reach out to me on Instagram @conversationswithbuddy or text me at 503-851-8031.  _ _ _ About Buddy Puckett:Buddy Puckett has been in the mortgage and finance space and mentoring men for over 25 years.  A mentoring opportunity all started when he first began in the mortgage industry in 1998, when he began to mentor a younger guy who happened to be married.  This person was not making great choices and it was sadly affecting his marriage.  We all are 1 decision away from something really dumb, so accountability became something Buddy knew he needed as well.  Buddy’s wife, Shawn, suggested he start a podcast in 2022 to share the stories of people who have struggled,failed, overcame by realizing the life of love, joy and peace is only available through a relationship with Jesus Christ!  “Jesus said to him, ’I am the way, and the truth and the life; no one comes to the Father except through Me’.” John 14:6 Buddy Puckett NMLS #270057, Arizona BK#0018883, AZ LO-1032154; OR ML-176 For more licensing information, please visit www.guildmortgage.com/licensing. The positions, strategies or opinions of the author do not necessarily represent the positions, strategies or opinions of Guild Mortgage Company or its affiliates. Guild Mortgage Company: Equal Housing Opportunity, NMLS #3274 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

  7. Jun 5

    Ep. 199 Jaika Yber - The drive I have comes from survival!

    🚀 Episode Spotlight: Jaika Yber 🚀 Jaika’s story is rooted in resilience, faith, and gratitude. Raised by her grandfather, she learned the values that still guide her today—generosity, hard work, and following Jesus. 🙏❤️ Her message is simple: be a giver, give a lot, and trust that God will always provide. 💻 As a web developer, SEO strategist, and social media expert, Jaika has built a business around freedom and purpose. Through trial and error, analyzing analytics, and staying committed to organic growth, she learned that success comes from consistency. Her advice? Post consistently for a year and trust the process. 📈🔥 ⏰ Jaika believes in owning your time, creating systems, and getting the most important work done before noon. Inspired by leaders like Robert Kyosaki and Grant Cardone, she emphasizes the 4 quadrants, visualization, discipline, and the mindset that you’re either selling or being sold. The drive behind it all comes from a survivor’s mentality and a desire to create a life of freedom and peace. 💪 ✨ From the power of hooks, trust, credibility, and strong calls-to-action, to her favorite reminder from Philippians 4:13, Jaika shares practical wisdom for business and life. Her encouragement to anyone facing challenges: Don’t lose hope, keep moving forward, and remember—arrows are more effective than bullets when you’re building something that lasts. 🙌 #JesusFollower #faith #purpose #Entrepreneurship #FaithAndBusiness #conversationswithbuddy  🙏 Subscribe to Conversations with Buddy for more conversations that inspire faith, leadership, and impact. _ _ _ For more stories like this, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@BuddyJamesPuckett If you or someone you know want to be on the podcast, please reach out to me on Instagram @conversationswithbuddy or text me at 503-851-8031.  _ _ _ About Buddy Puckett:Buddy Puckett has been in the mortgage and finance space and mentoring men for over 25 years.  A mentoring opportunity all started when he first began in the mortgage industry in 1998, when he began to mentor a younger guy who happened to be married.  This person was not making great choices and it was sadly affecting his marriage.  We all are 1 decision away from something really dumb, so accountability became something Buddy knew he needed as well.  Buddy’s wife, Shawn, suggested he start a podcast in 2022 to share the stories of people who have struggled,failed, overcame by realizing the life of love, joy and peace is only available through a relationship with Jesus Christ!  “Jesus said to him, ’I am the way, and the truth and the life; no one comes to the Father except through Me’.” John 14:6 Buddy Puckett NMLS #270057, Arizona BK#0018883, AZ LO-1032154; OR ML-176 For more licensing information, please visit www.guildmortgage.com/licensing. The positions, strategies or opinions of the author do not necessarily represent the positions, strategies or opinions of Guild Mortgage Company or its affiliates. Guild Mortgage Company: Equal Housing Opportunity, NMLS #3274 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

  8. May 29

    Ep. 198 Alan and Sarah Reese - Heaven is our ultimate goal!

    🙏 On this episode of Conversations with Buddy, we sat down with Alan and Sarah Reese to talk about faith, family, and walking through life’s hardest battles with hope. From raising Maddie and Max to navigating the realities of CF and a liver transplant journey, their story is filled with courage, love, and unwavering belief. ❤️ ✨ “Nothing is owed to you.”  That perspective changes everything. Alan and Sarah shared what it means to stop striving, reset expectations, and truly appreciate the blessings right in front of us. Through every challenge, they continue to choose gratitude, prayer, and faith over fear. 🙌 💬 One of the most powerful moments came when they talked about being “completely loved” and how “Heaven is our ultimate goal.” Their testimony reminds us that even in suffering, God is still moving. Pray, believe, and trust the process… even when the answers don’t come quickly. 🙏 😂 We also had some lighter moments with Alan talking about marriage like, “I’m just the pretty face!” and the famous phrase: “That sounds good to me!” Sometimes the best conversations are the real, honest, unfiltered ones that make you laugh and think at the same time. 🎙️ ❤️ This episode is a reminder to circle back to what matters most: faith, family, gratitude, and prayer. A blessed life doesn’t mean a perfect life — it means trusting God through it all.  Final answer… PRAYER 🙏 Please support this family by going to: cota.org/cotaformaddie #Jesusfollowers #faith #purpose #prayer #golflovers #blessedlife #conversationswithbuddy  🙏 Subscribe to Conversations with Buddy for more conversations that inspire faith, leadership, and impact. _ _ _ For more stories like this, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@BuddyJamesPuckett If you or someone you know want to be on the podcast, please reach out to me on Instagram @conversationswithbuddy or text me at 503-851-8031.  _ _ _ About Buddy Puckett:Buddy Puckett has been in the mortgage and finance space and mentoring men for over 25 years.  A mentoring opportunity all started when he first began in the mortgage industry in 1998, when he began to mentor a younger guy who happened to be married.  This person was not making great choices and it was sadly affecting his marriage.  We all are 1 decision away from something really dumb, so accountability became something Buddy knew he needed as well.  Buddy’s wife, Shawn, suggested he start a podcast in 2022 to share the stories of people who have struggled,failed, overcame by realizing the life of love, joy and peace is only available through a relationship with Jesus Christ!  “Jesus said to him, ’I am the way, and the truth and the life; no one comes to the Father except through Me’.” John 14:6 Buddy Puckett NMLS #270057, Arizona BK#0018883, AZ LO-1032154; OR ML-176 For more licensing information, please visit www.guildmortgage.com/licensing. The positions, strategies or opinions of the author do not necessarily represent the positions, strategies or opinions of Guild Mortgage Company or its affiliates. Guild Mortgage Company: Equal Housing Opportunity, NMLS #3274 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

4.6
out of 5
31 Ratings

About

Welcome to Conversations with Buddy, where you will hear the stories of everyday people fighting through life’s challenges for meaning and purpose. From fear to faith, struggles to success, trials, and tribulations to triumph and victory. Where did they muster the courage to overcome and where does their hope come from? What is the lesson life has taught each of these people who share their stories and then be willing to share it with the world?

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