Uncomfy: Sticking with Moments That Challenge Us

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Uncomfy: Sticking with Moments That Challenge Us

Real stories from guests who dared to get uncomfortable in a moment that challenged their worldview. In the thick of intense emotions, they chose to stay curious and open, rather than lash out or shy away, and came out the other side with stronger relationships, clearer beliefs, and increased confidence. And you can do it too! So, if you: • Want to engage with others on important topics but aren’t sure how, OR • Are burned out on social media and wish you could bring the humanity back into discussions online or in real life, Look no further! Whether you're a seasoned seeker of new ideas or just dipping your toes into the uncomfy waters, this podcast is your go-to destination for learning how to improve your communication, disagree more productively, and be a more inspired leader. In such a polarized world, we believe learning how to stick with moments that challenge us, without getting defensive or shutting down, is a direct antidote for division. Are you ready to lean in, listen up, and get uncomfy with us? Let's dive in together! Uncomfy: Sticking with Moments that Challenge Us is hosted by journalist Julie Rose and is a BYUradio production. #reallifestories #communication #polarization #relationshipskills #communicationskills #leadershipskills #leadershiptraining #community #communitybuilding #disagreebetter #buildingbridges #perspectives #worldview #resilience #emotionalresiliance #mentalhealth #training #mindfulness #conflictresolution #growthmindset #empowerment #problemsolving #respect #curiosity #activelistening #collaboration

  1. I Forgave My Absent Father. Here’s Why. — Justin Jones-Fosu

    1D AGO

    I Forgave My Absent Father. Here’s Why. — Justin Jones-Fosu

    Why would someone willingly step into an uncomfortable conversation, especially with someone who’s hurt them deeply? In this episode of Uncomfy, author and meaningful work researcher Justin Jones-Fosu shares the moving story of confronting his absentee father—not to accuse, but to understand. What followed changed his identity, his peace of mind, and even his connection to his heritage. Justin’s book, I Respectfully Disagree: How to Have Difficult Conversations in a Divided World — https://workmeaningful.com/books/ Justin’s company, Work. Meaningful. — https://workmeaningful.com/ Have you stepped outside your circle of comfort lately? Tell us about it — uncomfy@byu.edu Subscribe for more thoughtful, real conversations that push boundaries and invite growth. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction 00:45 The Impact of Avoidance 01:33 A Personal Story: Confronting My Father 03:59 The Concept of 'Taking the Exit' 05:24 The Journey to Understanding and Forgiveness 11:45 The Circles of Grace Challenge 15:06 Conclusion and Call to Action

    17 min
  2. A Parent’s Worst Nightmare, and Why She Speaks Out – Dawn Peabody (Kids and Car Safety)

    MAY 7

    A Parent’s Worst Nightmare, and Why She Speaks Out – Dawn Peabody (Kids and Car Safety)

    Sometimes the hardest stories are the ones we need to hear most. In this episode of Uncomfy, Dawn Peabody shares the unimaginable loss of her 2-year-old daughter, Maya, who died after being accidentally left in a hot car. Dawn opens up about how she and her husband faced the tragedy, how faith and forgiveness helped them survive, and why she now speaks out in hopes of saving lives. Dawn reminds us that even the most loving, attentive parents can fall victim to distraction—and that we all have a role to play in preventing similar heartbreak. Learn more about car safety advocacy: https://www.kidsandcars.org Share your own Uncomfy moments with us: uncomfy@byu.edu Julie’s other podcast, Top of Mind with Julie Rose: https://lnkfi.re/TopofMind Episode transcript: https://uncomfypodcastbyu.blogspot.com/2025/05/a-parents-worst-nightmare-and-why-she.html Uncomfy is a BYUradio podcast hosted by journalist Julie Rose.

    11 min
  3. Dancing in Discomfort: Lessons from a Refugee Advocate – Amy Dott Harmer

    APR 30

    Dancing in Discomfort: Lessons from a Refugee Advocate – Amy Dott Harmer

    What would you do if you had to start over in a new country, far from everything familiar? Amy Dott Harmer has spent a decade answering that question—not for herself, but for thousands of refugees in Utah. As Executive Director of Utah Refugee Connection, Amy shares what it's like to truly show up for people who have lost everything, and how dancing awkwardly in a circle of refugee women taught her one of her most important lessons about empathy, connection, and courage. In this episode of Uncomfy, host Julie Rose joins Amy Dott as she reflects on the joy and heartbreak of her work, the persistent misunderstandings around refugee, immigrant, and asylum status, and how, more and more, her efforts to serve and advocate have started to feel political in ways they didn’t before. Subscribe for more thought-provoking stories that challenge, inspire, and get a little Uncomfy. Learn more or get involved with Utah Refugee Connection: https://serverefugees.org Share your own “uncomfy” story at uncomfy@byu.edu Check out Julie’s other podcast, Top of Mind with Julie Rose: https://lnkfi.re/TopofMind Episode transcript: https://uncomfypodcastbyu.blogspot.com/2025/04/dancing-in-discomfort-lessons-from.html CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction 00:44 Meet Amy Dott Harmer: A Decade with Refugees 01:13 Dancing Out of the Comfort Zone 03:38 Building Connections and Understanding 05:21 The Role of Utah Refugee Connection 08:18 Challenges in a Politicized Climate 13:19 Personal Reflections and Broader Impact 15:52 Conclusion and Call to Action

    18 min
  4. He Lost His Leg. Then He Gained His Purpose. – James Dixon

    APR 23

    He Lost His Leg. Then He Gained His Purpose. – James Dixon

    Born with life-threatening medical conditions and told he wouldn’t survive—let alone walk—James Dixon ultimately had his leg amputated as a child. But through relentless determination, deep faith, and his grandmother’s belief that he was Superman, he transformed what others saw as a disability into his greatest superpower. In this powerful episode of Uncomfy, James takes host Julie Rose through his incredible journey—from being called "crippled" to earning a Division I basketball scholarship and now changing lives as a motivational speaker and CEO of Absolute Motivation. He shares his path through loss, rejection, faith, resilience, and purpose—and how discomfort can lead to transformation. Content warning: this episode includes a story involving attempted suicide and medical trauma. It ends in hope, but please take care as you listen. James’s book, Absolute Motivation: Battle Tested Principles for Next-Level Living – https://a.co/d/6LFXg1b Follow James on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/absolutemotivationofficial Julie’s other podcast, Top of Mind with Julie Rose - https://lnkfi.re/TopofMind Episode transcript: https://uncomfypodcastbyu.blogspot.com/2025/05/he-lost-his-leg-then-he-gained-his.html What’s the biggest challenge you’ve turned into purpose? Email us at uncomfy@byu.edu or connect with us on our socials! Uncomfy is a BYUradio podcast hosted by Julie Rose.

    18 min
  5. “Is God Even Listening?” An Honest Easter Conversation - Reverend Kyle Norman

    APR 16

    “Is God Even Listening?” An Honest Easter Conversation - Reverend Kyle Norman

    "Why doesn’t God answer my prayers? Is God even real?" Especially around Easter, when faith is supposed to feel joyful and full, these questions can feel even heavier. In this special Easter episode, host Julie Rose speaks with Reverend Kyle Norman—Rector and Dean of St. Paul’s Anglican Cathedral and author of “Alive, Loved, and Free: Finding Jesus When Faith is Hard.” Together they talk through the hidden struggles of spiritual discouragement, doubt, and the quiet shame that can follow when life falls apart—especially for those who deeply believe. Kyle shares how his wife’s battle with cancer led him to some of the hardest faith questions of his life: “Is God judging my family? If we were better Christians, would this not have happened?” Julie and Kyle explore what it means to keep seeking God, even when He feels far away—and how Easter can be a time of renewed hope for those stuck in spiritual dry seasons. If you’ve ever felt like you're doing faith “wrong,” or wondered why prayer feels pointless, this conversation is for you. Learn more about Kyle's work, including his new book: https://revkylenorman.ca Share your “Uncomfy” story: uncomfy@byu.edu or @uncomfy.podcast on Instagram Listen to Julie’s other podcast, Top of Mind with Julie Rose: https://lnkfi.re/TopofMind Episode transcript: https://uncomfypodcastbyu.blogspot.com/2025/05/is-god-even-listening-honest-easter.html

    22 min
  6. The Power of Saving and Suffering a Little – Shang Saavedra

    APR 9

    The Power of Saving and Suffering a Little – Shang Saavedra

    What if a little financial discomfort today could buy you freedom tomorrow? Host Julie Rose talks with Shang Saavedra—founder of Save My Cents and author of Wealth is a Mindset—about how extreme frugality, mindset shifts, and some seriously uncomfortable choices helped her reach financial independence by age 31. Whether you're buried in money stress or just looking for more freedom, this episode is for you. Learn more: https://savemycents.com/ Wealth is a Mindset, available now: https://savemycents.com/book/ Follow Shang: https://www.instagram.com/savemycents/ Share your Uncomfy story: uncomfy@byu.edu Uncomfy is a BYUradio podcast hosted by Julie Rose. Also check out our sister show, Top of Mind with Julie Rose - https://lnkfi.re/TopofMind Episode transcript: https://uncomfypodcastbyu.blogspot.com/2025/05/the-power-of-saving-and-suffering.html CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction: 00:47 Meet Shang Saavedra: Financial Freedom Journey 01:04 Early Financial Struggles and Realizations 02:53 Extreme Frugality: Living on One Income 05:26 Challenges and Mishaps of Frugal Living 12:29 Shang's Turning Point: Toxic Work Environment 13:27 Achieving Financial Independence 14:39 Shang's Message: Financial Security for All 18:13 Faith and Wealth: A Christian Perspective 19:32 Final Thoughts and Resources

    22 min
  7. He Left Mainstream Media to Do News Differently. Here’s What He Learned. – Mosheh Oinounou (Mo News)

    APR 2

    He Left Mainstream Media to Do News Differently. Here’s What He Learned. – Mosheh Oinounou (Mo News)

    Are you tired of not knowing who to trust in the news? In this episode of Uncomfy, journalist and Mo News founder Mosheh Oinounou opens up about why he walked away from a successful career in traditional news media—and what it takes to build trust in today’s broken media landscape. Mosheh shares some of the shortcomings of traditional media, the origin of Mo News during the pandemic, his reasons for now picking a side, and ways we can all stay informed without getting overwhelmed. What does it really mean to be non-partisan? Is it possible to fight the algorithm and still grow an audience? And how do we stay curious when the news makes us want to shut down? Connect with Mosheh Oinounou and Mo News: Instagram: https://instagram.com/mosheh Podcast: https://www.mo.news/podcast Website: https://mo.news More from Julie Rose: Podcast: Top of Mind with Julie Rose – Narrative deep dives into tough topics. Available on all major podcast apps. https://lnkfi.re/TopofMind Join the Conversation: What’s your most trusted news source? How do you break out of your media bubble? Let us know in the comments, on social media, or email uncomfy@byu.edu. Follow/subscribe to make sure you catch next week’s conversation. Episode transcript: https://uncomfypodcastbyu.blogspot.com/2025/05/he-left-mainstream-media-to-do-news.html Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:09 Meet Mosheh Oinounou: From Traditional News to Social Media 04:08 The Evolution of News Consumption 10:18 Balancing Bias and Fair Reporting 15:58 Advice for Informed Citizenship 20:30 Conclusion and Additional Resources

    23 min
  8. From Enemies to Allies: Mark Rosenberg and Jay Dickey's Unlikely Friendship

    MAR 26

    From Enemies to Allies: Mark Rosenberg and Jay Dickey's Unlikely Friendship

    What happens when two people on opposite sides of a heated debate come together? Mark Rosenberg, a gun violence research advocate and former CDC official, and the late Congressman Jay Dickey, a staunch NRA supporter, were once bitter enemies. Their clash over the Dickey Amendment, which halted federal funding for gun violence research, seemed insurmountable. Yet, through a series of candid conversations and shared personal experiences, they discovered common ground and mutual respect. This Uncomfy conversation was adapted from a recent episode we did on gun violence over on our other podcast, Top of Mind with Julie Rose, which you can check out here: https://www.byuradio.org/2ca1d0ad-385b-45f8-91ec-a88a2474c347/top-of-mind-with-julie-rose-what-a-surprising-friendship-can-teach-us-about-gun-violence-in-america Related Links Rosenberg/Dickey op-ed 2012 - https://web.archive.org/web/20120801190312/https:/www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/we-wont-know-the-cause-of-gun-violence-until-we-look-for-it/2012/07/27/gJQAPfenEX_print.html Rosenberg/Dickey op-ed 2015 - https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/time-for-collaboration-on-gun-research/2015/12/25/f989cd1a-a819-11e5-bff5-905b92f5f94b_story.html 1993 CDC-funded study that prompted the Dickey Amendment - https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJM199310073291506 Episode transcript: https://uncomfypodcastbyu.blogspot.com/2025/05/from-enemies-to-allies-mark-rosenberg.html Follow us on social media! Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheUncomfyPod/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/uncomfy.podcast/ Tik Tok - https://www.tiktok.com/@theuncomfypodcast Threads - https://www.threads.net/@uncomfy.podcast CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction 00:51 Meet Mark Rosenberg 01:24 The Feud with Congressman Jay Dickey 02:53 An Unexpected Meeting 04:40 Building an Unlikely Friendship 10:38 Lessons Learned and Shared 16:08 A Call for Unity and Hope 17:53 Conclusion and Further Listening

    20 min
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Real stories from guests who dared to get uncomfortable in a moment that challenged their worldview. In the thick of intense emotions, they chose to stay curious and open, rather than lash out or shy away, and came out the other side with stronger relationships, clearer beliefs, and increased confidence. And you can do it too! So, if you: • Want to engage with others on important topics but aren’t sure how, OR • Are burned out on social media and wish you could bring the humanity back into discussions online or in real life, Look no further! Whether you're a seasoned seeker of new ideas or just dipping your toes into the uncomfy waters, this podcast is your go-to destination for learning how to improve your communication, disagree more productively, and be a more inspired leader. In such a polarized world, we believe learning how to stick with moments that challenge us, without getting defensive or shutting down, is a direct antidote for division. Are you ready to lean in, listen up, and get uncomfy with us? Let's dive in together! Uncomfy: Sticking with Moments that Challenge Us is hosted by journalist Julie Rose and is a BYUradio production. #reallifestories #communication #polarization #relationshipskills #communicationskills #leadershipskills #leadershiptraining #community #communitybuilding #disagreebetter #buildingbridges #perspectives #worldview #resilience #emotionalresiliance #mentalhealth #training #mindfulness #conflictresolution #growthmindset #empowerment #problemsolving #respect #curiosity #activelistening #collaboration

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