The UNPACKIN' it Podcast With Bryce Johnson & Trip Smith

UNPACKIN' it
  • 5.0 (50)
  • Christianity
  • Updated Weekly

This is the UNPACKIN’ it Podcast, where we relate sports stories to life and faith. Our mission is to challenge, encourage, and inspire you to follow Jesus and become more like Him with sports conversations that truly matter. We also unpack sports, faith, and life with intriguing guests from the sports world. Bryce Johnson is the president of UNPACKIN' it Ministries and is the host. Trip Smith is a pastor and works with Impact Partners. Shows are released most weeks on Tuesdays. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. 5h ago

    Overcoming the Comparison Trap & Embracing Mentorship!

    The NFL season is almost here, and quarterback battles are heating up across the league! Join Bryce Johnson and Pastor Trip Smith as they dive into the fascinating dynamics of NFL quarterback rooms - from the Browns' situation to the Atlanta Falcons' battle between Tua Tagovailoa, Michael Penix Jr., and underdog Jack Strand. More importantly, how do these competitive environments parallel our daily lives as followers of Jesus? Bryce and Tripp break down: How to escape the "snare to compare" and focus on your own lane. The three D's of comparison: Distraction, Discouragement, and Diminishment. Matthew Stafford's powerful example of mentoring rookie Ty Simpson with the Rams. How biblical discipleship helps us outdo one another in showing honor. 🔗 Get Connected: Join our fantasy football league: unpackinit.com/fantasyPartner with Upward Sports: upward.org/unpackSubscribe to the Devotional: unpackinit.com 👍 Don't forget to Like, Share, and Subscribe to help spread the word! Find out more about UNPACKIN' it Ministries: HERE Subscribe to our YouTube channel! HERE Click HERE to support UNPACKIN' it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  2. Aug 18

    We Are Called to Be Different

    In this episode of The UNPACKIN' it Podcast, hosts Bryce Johnson and Trip Smith dive into the week one action of the NFL preseason! NFL training camps are rolling, players are making noise, and coaches are taking notice. From rookies turning heads to veterans holding down their spots, Bryce and Trip discuss who is standing out on the field — and what that means for our own lives. In this episode, we unpack... NFL Preseason Highlights: The guys break down performances from rookies like Fernando Mendoza (Raiders), Ty Simpson (Rams), Drew Aller (Steelers), KC Concepcion (Browns), and Emmett Johnson (Chiefs). Plus, they take a look at DJ Moore's connection with Josh Allen in Buffalo and David Bailey's impact on the Jets' defense. Life & Faith Parallel: Just as players try to distinguish themselves during training camp, what does it mean for followers of Jesus to "stand out" in the world? Living a Holy Life: Bryce and Trip explore Scripture passages like Matthew 5:14–16 and 1 Peter 1:15–16 to break down how to live set-apart, Spirit-filled lives that reflect God's light, love, and character to those around us. Check out these links to connect with us: 🏈 Play Fantasy Football with us: Visit unpackinit.com/fantasy to join a league alongside Bryce, Tripp, and other listeners. 🤝 Fantasy Football Fellowship: Bring FFF content to your local league or church at fantasyfootballfellowship.com. 🏀 Sponsor Highlight - Upward Sports: Bring an intentional basketball ministry to your church this winter. Learn more at upward.org/unpack. 📖 Daily Devotionals: Read our written devotionals released every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at unpackinit.com. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to Like, Comment, Share, and Subscribe to help us continue growing the channel! Find out more about UNPACKIN' it Ministries: HERE Subscribe to our YouTube channel! HERE Click HERE to support UNPACKIN' it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  3. Aug 11

    Navigating Pressure In Life With God's Guidance | The NFL's Hot Seat

    NFL training camps and preseason games are officially underway, bringing excitement, high expectations, and intense pressure. In this episode of the UNPACKIN' it Podcast, Bryce Johnson and Tripp Smith break down the NFL coaches and quarterbacks sitting in the hot seat this season - including Shane Steichen, Aaron Glenn, Zac Taylor, Nick Sirianni, Lamar Jackson, and Josh Allen. They explore the sports parallels to life and faith: How do we handle the pressure to perform, meet expectations, and prove our worth? While world standards place us in a constant "hot seat," the gospel offers a very different story. Drawing from Scripture (including Ephesians 2:6, Colossians 3:1, Psalm 94:19, and Romans 8:38-39), Bryce and Trip discuss the concept of "the session of Christ" and how believers are given true identity, rest, and soul security in Jesus. Fantasy Football Fellowship: Bring purpose to your league this season! Join today at fantasyfootballfellowship.com. Upward Sports: Partner with Upward to build an intentional winter basketball ministry at your church. Learn more at upward.org/unpack Glu App: Stream and connect on the Glu network. Contact Us: Have questions or want to learn more about following Jesus? Email Bryce at bryce@unpackingit.com. Don't forget to Like, Comment, and Subscribe to stay updated with new episodes! Find out more about UNPACKIN' it Ministries: HERE Subscribe to our YouTube channel! HERE Click HERE to support UNPACKIN' it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  4. Aug 4

    How to Stop Doing "Dumb Things" and Live with Wisdom

    Do you ever do dumb things? You’re not alone. In this episode of The UNPACKIN' it Podcast, host Bryce Johnson dives into New York Giants running back Cam Skattebo’s viral offseason backflip and how even top athletes struggle with reckless decisions. Using Skattebo’s lesson as a backdrop, Bryce unpacks the biblical difference between living a foolish life and walking in God's wisdom. Plus, he discusses the Hall of Fame inductees, Carolina Panthers backup QB Kenny Pickett, and whether a head coach can win a Super Bowl with two different franchises. Key Topics Covered: Cam Skattebo's FanFest Backflip: Learning restraint after reckless decisions.Wisdom vs. Foolishness: What Proverbs and Ephesians teach us about stopping patterns of stupidity and yielding to the Holy Spirit.NFL News & Debates: Who is the most likable NFL player of all time?Super Bowl History: The stats behind head coaches changing franchises. Episode Links & Resources: Visit our sponsor: upward.org/unpack to start or grow a sports ministry at your church.Have thoughts on the most likable NFL player? Email Bryce at bryce@unpackinit.com. If you enjoyed this devotional and sports breakdown, don't forget to Like, Subscribe, and Share! Find out more about UNPACKIN' it Ministries: HERE Subscribe to our YouTube channel! HERE Click HERE to support UNPACKIN' it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  5. Jul 28

    Summer Sports Movie Series | Invincible Movie Review & Faith Discussion

    What does it take to go from a 30-year-old season ticket holder in the stands to a player in an NFL locker room?  In this episode of The UNPACKIN' it Podcast, host Bryce Johnson and Trip Smith unpack the true-story sports movie Invincible, starring Mark Wahlberg as Philadelphia Eagles legend Vince Papale.  Together, they discuss: 🏈 The incredible true story of Vince Papale making the Eagles roster at age 30. 🎥 How *Invincible* compares to other classic sports movies like *Miracle* and *Rudy.* 🏆 Trip and Bryce's final rankings of their Summer Sports Movie Series (including *F1* and *Field of Dreams*). 🤝 The power of community, asking for help, being a "3 AM friend" when times get tough, and celebrating when people do well and supporting each other when we need it. Scripture Reference: 📖 Matthew 5:42 – "Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you." -------------------------------------------------- 🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED: • Fantasy Football Fellowship: https://fantasyfootballfellowship.com • Sign up for the free UnPackin' It Devotional: https://unpackinit.com • Support for this show is brought to you by Upward Sports: https://upward.org/unpack 📲 CONNECT WITH US: • Website: https://unpackinit.com • Email suggestions & questions: bryce@unpackinit.com Don't forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and leave a comment telling us: What’s your favorite sports movie of all time? Find out more about UNPACKIN' it Ministries: HERE Subscribe to our YouTube channel! HERE Click HERE to support UNPACKIN' it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  6. Jul 21

    Summer Sports Movie Series | F1: The Movie―Why Are You Here?

    What Is Our Life Really All About? Brad Pitt’s F1: The Movie delivers thrilling racing, an unforgettable comeback story, and some surprisingly profound questions about purpose, identity, and motivations. Bryce Johnson and Trip Smith unpack the movie’s most meaningful themes, asking the questions from the movie that relate to our lives: "Why are we here?""Why do we do this?""So what is it about?""What are we doing here?" We Also Discuss: ―Why F1: The Movie works so well as a sports movie ―Brad Pitt’s performance as veteran driver Sonny Hayes ―The movie’s realism, racing scenes, and underdog story ―Why we are here and the search for purpose ―Success versus significance ―What it means to glorify and enjoy God ―How to love God and love people in everything we do ―Why our purpose must flow from our relationship with God Learn more about UNPACKIN’ it: https://www.unpackinit.com Play Fantasy Football With Purpose: https://www.fantasyfootballfellowship.com Learn more about Upward Sports soccer leagues: https://www.upward.org/soccer Find out more about UNPACKIN' it Ministries: HERE Subscribe to our YouTube channel! HERE Click HERE to support UNPACKIN' it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  7. Jul 14

    Summer Sports Movie Series | Field of Dreams (Listening to the Holy Spirit)

    Field of Dreams: Listening and Obeying the Holy Spirit Have you ever felt a strong prompting or a thought you just couldn't shake, but worried people would think you were crazy if you actually followed through? On this week’s episode of The UNPACKIN’ it Podcast, hosts Bryce Johnson and Trip Smith unpack the classic 1989 sports movie, Field of Dreams, starring Kevin Costner. They dive into the iconic story of Ray Kinsella clearing out his livelihood to build a baseball field based on a voice he couldn't ignore. While it's a classic baseball movie with a heartwarming story, it also gives us a beautiful metaphor for faith, vision, and listening to the Holy Spirit. We draw powerful parallels to our walk with God. How do we recognize God's voice? How do we test our promptings to ensure they line up with Scripture? And what happens when we finally step out in wild, courageous obedience? We also share some incredible behind-the-scenes movie trivia (including a couple of very famous Hollywood extras!) and discuss why this film still moves audiences decades later. Drop a comment below: What is a step of faith you know God is whispering for you to take right now? ⚽ A MESSAGE FROM OUR SPONSOR: UPWARD SPORTSThe World Cup has been awesome! What better way to celebrate than by starting your own Upward Sports soccer league? With families everywhere watching the games, kids will be excited to get on the field and play. Upward Sports is ready to help your church launch a fall soccer league with full marketing, communication, and ministry resources—plus two free soccer goals when you create your league! 👉 Schedule a call today at Upward.org/Soccer 📖 SCRIPTURE REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODEJohn 10:27 (AMP): "The sheep that are My own hear My voice and listen to Me; I know them, and they follow Me."Psalm 143:8 (AMP): "Let me hear Your lovingkindness in the morning, for I trust in You. Teach me the way in which I should walk, for I lift up my soul to You."1 Thessalonians 5:19-21 (AMP): "Do not quench [subdue, or be unresponsive to the working and guidance of] the [Holy] Spirit. Do not scorn or reject gifts of prophecy... But test all things carefully... Hold firmly to that which is good."🔗 CONNECT WITH UNPACKIN' IT MINISTRIESOfficial Website: unpackinit.comDaily Devotional: The Sports DevotionalFantasy Football Fellowship: Join the community at fantasyfootballfellowship.comSupport the Ministry: Partner with us financially at unpackinit.com/donateEmail Bryce directly: Bryce@unpackinit.com🎧 WHERE TO WATCH & LISTENYou can see and hear us every week on YouTube, GLU, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and across all major social media platforms! Find out more about UNPACKIN' it Ministries: HERE Subscribe to our YouTube channel! HERE Click HERE to support UNPACKIN' it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  8. Jul 7

    Summer Sports Movie Series: Miracle | Coach Brooks Knew What He Was Doing

    In 1980, a team of college kids beat the unbeatable Soviet hockey machine and won Olympic gold. But the real story isn't just about hockey — it's about a coach whose players thought he was crazy...until they realized his plan worked. This week on The UNPACKIN' It Podcast, Bryce Johnson and Trip Smith unpack the movie Miracle (2004), starring Kurt Russell as Coach Herb Brooks. They draw a powerful parallel to the way God works in our lives, even when His plan makes zero sense to us in the moment. BREAKDOWN: 🏒 Kurt Russell's iconic performance as Coach Herb Brooks 🏒 Why the players didn't understand Brooks' methods — and why that mattered 🏒 The faith parallel: trusting God's plan when it doesn't make sense 🏒 Key scriptures: Romans 11:33; Psalm 18:30, Job 37:5; Isaiah 40:13; Proverbs 19:21; 1 Peter 1:6-7 🏒 Favorite movie lines, best scenes, and other interesting aspects of the movie. Just like Coach Brooks had a reason for every drill, every sprint, and every test he put his team through, God has a reason for every season He puts us through. He's preparing us, refining us, and setting us up for victory — even when it doesn't make sense in the moment. 🙏 Subscribe for weekly episodes where we unpack sports, movies, and pop culture through the lens of faith. 📩 Have a topic idea or question? Email Bryce@unpackinit.com 🌐More from us: unpackinit.com 📖Check out The Sports Devotional 🏈Join Fantasy Football Fellowship 💛Support the ministry: unpackinit.com/donate This episode is brought to you by Upward Sports. With the World Cup coming this summer, there's no better time to launch a soccer league at your church. Get support every step of the way — plus two free soccer goals when you create your league. Learn more at Upward.org/Soccer 🎧 Listen & subscribe everywhere: YouTube, GLU, Apple Podcasts, Spotify 📱 Follow us on social media for more content: @unpackinit Find out more about UNPACKIN' it Ministries: HERE Subscribe to our YouTube channel! HERE Click HERE to support UNPACKIN' it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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This is the UNPACKIN’ it Podcast, where we relate sports stories to life and faith. Our mission is to challenge, encourage, and inspire you to follow Jesus and become more like Him with sports conversations that truly matter. We also unpack sports, faith, and life with intriguing guests from the sports world. Bryce Johnson is the president of UNPACKIN' it Ministries and is the host. Trip Smith is a pastor and works with Impact Partners. Shows are released most weeks on Tuesdays. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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