In this episode of The Essential Discourse Podcast, host Bruce Smith delves into navigating relationships with "swine-minded" individuals, a concept derived from the biblical sermon of not casting pearls before swine. He passionately articulates that swine-minded people are unappreciative, willfully ignorant, and often unrepentant about taking advantage of others' generosity. Through personal anecdotes and relatable scenarios, Bruce guides listeners in identifying such individuals and offers practical solutions to preserve their peace and maintain healthy boundaries. Join the conversation as Bruce explores the fine line between helping those in need and setting limits with those who refuse to change, all while emphasizing the importance of being led to help rather than obligated by personal duty. This episode promises to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with the challenges of giving and feeling appreciated in their relationships.

For your convenience, the Essential Discourse Podcast is available on your favorite streaming apps, including Apple Podcast, Spotify, and iHeart. We are also online at https://www.edpshow.com/.

You can follow The Essential Discourse Podcast on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. We welcome and encourage your comments about the podcast, individual episodes, and other content.

Please consider subscribing to our community on the website and social media platforms.

Thank you for your support, reviews, and general comments.

Sincerely,
Bruce S.
[email protected]
@BruceDaTruth2 [Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok]
@EssentialDiscoursePodcastMedia [YouTube]

Welcome to the Essential Discourse Podcast! I'm your host, Bruce Smith, and I'm thrilled to kick off our first episode of 2025 with you. 

Have you ever heard, "It's not how you start; it's how you finish?" That may be true. However, I submit that how you start matters in the time it takes one to achieve his or her goals.

Today, we're setting the stage for a year of intentional living and meaningful goal-setting. In this episode, I dive deep into the difference between New Year's resolutions and goals and why resolutions often fall short.

I'll explore the significance of starting strong, maintaining the right mindset, the vital role of self-motivation, and more. Drawing analogies to assembling furniture without instructions, we'll discuss the importance of having a clear plan and understanding the true motivations behind your goals. You'll learn about the power of self-discipline, the necessity of making sacrifices, and the benefits of having a community and mentor for support and accountability.

I'll also talk about how focusing on self-improvement and authenticity in goal-setting can lead to real, lasting success. 

Plus, I'll share my plans for more live sessions this year and the various platforms where you can connect with the Essential Discourse Podcast. So, get ready to start right and end well in 2025. Let's make this year your best one yet!

Remember that life, by design, is a perpetual progression. Many of us have areas where we settle into comfort zones, hindering our growth. In embracing discomfort, we can reignite our motivation, enhance our self-esteem, and seize new opportunities. 

Stagnation always negatively impacts our mental well-being, leading to dissatisfaction. I hope we'll challenge ourselves to move beyond our comfort zones and strive to become our best selves.

For your convenience, the Essential Discourse Podcast is available on your favorite streaming apps, including Apple Podcast, Spotify, and iHeart. We are also online at https://www.edpshow.com/.

You can follow The Essential Discourse Podcast on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. We welcome and encourage your comments about the podcast, individual episodes, and other content.

Please consider subscribing to our community on the website and social media platforms.

Thank you for your support, reviews, and general comments.

Sincerely,
Bruce S.
[email protected]
@BruceDaTruth2 [Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok]
@EssentialDiscoursePodcastMedia [YouTube]

Ever catch yourself spiraling into a black hole of 'what ifs' and endless doubt? Trust me, you're not alone. Today, we're diving headfirst into the all-too-common struggle of overthinking!

Hey everyone! Welcome back to The Essential Discourse Podcast. I am your host, Bruce Smith!

Overthinking causes many people to fail in various aspects of life. Relationships suffer or, worse, are destroyed because of it. Overthinking causes some to have severe battles with depression, self-confidence, and more. 

In this short, relevant, powerful, and enlightening episode, I dive deep into the pervasive issue of overthinking, a mental habit that can cripple our minds and hinder our everyday lives. From personal anecdotes to societal influences, I explore the roots and repercussions of overthinking, discussing how it manifests in relationships and everyday scenarios.

I emphasize how overthinking can stem from fear and recount its detrimental effects—from missed opportunities to isolation and self-sabotage. I also highlight the importance of managing this condition, advocating for professional help when necessary, and offering practical advice for building self-confidence and fostering a healthy mindset.

We've all been there—lying awake at night, dissecting every little detail, and letting our minds run wild with anxiety. This sets the stage for our most significant critic to reign supreme without proper perspective or logic.  

Are you ready to break free from the paralyzing clutches of overthinking? Tune in, and let’s tackle this mental monster together. Let's discover ways to break free from overthinking and transform your mental landscape. 

And hey, don’t forget to visit edpshow.com and join our growing community. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube so you never miss an update. Let’s turn those chaotic thoughts into constructive actions, right here on The Essential Discourse Podcast!

For your convenience, the Essential Discourse Podcast is available on your favorite streaming apps, including Apple Podcast, Spotify, and iHeart. We are also online at https://www.edpshow.com/.

You can follow The Essential Discourse Podcast on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. We welcome and encourage your comments about the podcast, individual episodes, and other content.

Please consider subscribing to our community on the website and social media platforms.

Thank you for your support, reviews, and general comments.

Sincerely,
Bruce S.
[email protected]
@BruceDaTruth2 [Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok]
@EssentialDiscoursePodcastMedia [YouTube]

Welcome to another powerful episode of The Essential Discourse Podcast. I’m your host, Bruce Smith, and today, we're tackling a topic that's often overlooked but deeply impactful: the grief associated with grieving. In this episode, we're going beyond the conventional understanding of grief to explore the additional layers of frustration, annoyance, and even anger that can complicate the mourning process. This is a topic that is crucial for all of us to understand and manage.

Have you ever felt overwhelmed, not just by the sorrow of losing a loved one, but by the chaos left in their wake? This episode dives into what I call "annoyance grief" — the trouble and burden that arises from a loved one not having their affairs in order. We’ll discuss how the lack of preparation, such as not having life insurance, a will, or final instructions, can place an unbearable load on those left behind.

As someone who has personally grappled with this, I’ll share my experiences and insights. We'll look at how these irresponsible actions can transform grief into anger, resentment, and even physical stress, affecting both our mental and physical health. The episode will also emphasize the crucial steps you can take — like securing life insurance and drafting a will — to alleviate this additional grief and allow your loved ones to focus on the emotional aspect of your loss.

Join us as we confront these hard truths and inspire each other to take responsible action for the sake of our families and loved ones. It's a tough conversation but an essential one. So, grab a seat, get comfortable, and let's get into it. This is The Essential Discourse Podcast, and today's episode is about navigating the additional layers of grief. Stay tuned for a conversation that can elevate your perspective and maybe even change your life.

For your convenience, the Essential Discourse Podcast is available on your favorite streaming apps, including Apple Podcast, Spotify, and iHeart. We are also online at https://www.edpshow.com/.

You can follow The Essential Discourse Podcast on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. We welcome and encourage your comments about the podcast, individual episodes, and other content.

Please consider subscribing to our community on the website and social media platforms.

Thank you for your support, reviews, and general comments.

Sincerely,
Bruce S.
[email protected]
@BruceDaTruth2 [Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok]
@EssentialDiscoursePodcastMedia [YouTube]

Welcome to the Essential Discourse Podcast! In today's episode, we're diving deep into a topic that hits home for many of us: the struggle with frustration and anger. Have you ever found yourself overwhelmed by stress, unable to control the things around you, and feeling the weight of the world on your shoulders? We're going to unpack these powerful emotions and explore how emotional intelligence can be a game-changer in managing them. We'll discuss self-care's critical role, empathy's importance, and how building trust and confidence through human connections can transform your life. Stay tuned as I share my personal journey and the hard-earned lessons that can help you navigate through life's toughest challenges. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to find balance and strength in the face of adversity.

This podcast episode is my reflection on dealing with anger and frustration caused by uncontrollable situations, partly due to the irresponsibility of others and myself. I share my own experiences of stress and emotional turmoil, highlighting how these feelings can lead to negative actions and the importance of recognizing and addressing one's mental and emotional health. I discuss the concept of emotional intelligence and the need for a supportive network to help navigate these challenging emotions.

I emphasize the consequences of neglecting self-care, recounting a recent incident where my pent-up frustration led to a regrettable outburst. I underscore the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions and the necessity of holistic self-care—mental, emotional, and spiritual. The podcast episode concludes with a call to action, encouraging listeners to share their experiences and engage in a dialogue to support one another in managing life's stresses and maintaining emotional well-being.

For your convenience, the Essential Discourse Podcast is available on your favorite streaming apps, including Apple Podcast, Spotify, and iHeart. We are also online at https://www.edpshow.com/.

You can follow The Essential Discourse Podcast on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. We welcome and encourage your comments about the podcast, individual episodes, and other content.

Please consider subscribing to our community on the website and social media platforms.

Thank you for your support, reviews, and general comments.

Sincerely,
Bruce S.
[email protected]
@BruceDaTruth2 [Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok]
@EssentialDiscoursePodcastMedia [YouTube]

Welcome back to Essential Discourse with Bruce Smith, the podcast that dives deep into the complexities of real life and offers transformative dialogue. I'm your host, Bruce Smith, and today we have a special guest joining us, 16-year-old high school junior, Braeden Smith. In this episode, a prequel to the episode in our series, we tackle the intriguing question: "What is a man?" from his perspective.  We explore the concept of maturity, responsibility, and the challenges of growing up in today's society. Brace yourself for an honest and thought-provoking conversation as we examine the different perspectives on manhood from a 16-year-old's point of view. So grab your headphones and get ready for Essential Discourse - the podcast that goes beyond identifying problems to provide meaningful solutions. Let's dive in!

For your convenience, the Essential Discourse Podcast is available on your favorite streaming apps, including Apple Podcast, Spotify, and iHeart. We are also online at https://www.edpshow.com/.

You can follow The Essential Discourse Podcast on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. We welcome and encourage your comments about the podcast, individual episodes, and other content.

Please consider subscribing to our community on the website and social media platforms.

Thank you for your support, reviews, and general comments.

Sincerely,
Bruce S.
[email protected]
@BruceDaTruth2 [Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok]
@EssentialDiscoursePodcastMedia [YouTube]

In this episode of Essential Discourse Podcast, host Bruce Smith takes a personal and engaging approach to exploring the question of what defines a man from the aspect of the origin of man.  He highlights the dangers of modeling ourselves after celebrities and other popular people's public personas, warning against the destructive behaviors and consequences they can lead to. Bruce emphasizes that each individual has the potential to achieve God's standard of excellence through their adherence to the original and still relevant standard set by the creator.  

Drawing from Jeremiah 29:11, he encourages listeners to trust in God and His plans for their lives. He addresses the importance of being agreeable, responsible, and accountable to God, as well as to other men, emphasizing its reflection on one's relationship with God. The episode concludes with Bruce highlighting the choice individuals must make concerning the teachings of Jesus and the verified examples of the truth that can lead to an abundant and holistic life. Listeners are urged to embrace their unique path and seek guidance from a willing guide rather than imitating false personas and lifestyles."

For your convenience, the Essential Discourse Podcast is available on your favorite streaming apps, including Apple Podcast, Spotify, and iHeart. We are also online at https://www.edpshow.com/.

You can follow The Essential Discourse Podcast on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. We welcome and encourage your comments about the podcast, individual episodes, and other content.

Please consider subscribing to our community on the website and social media platforms.

Thank you for your support, reviews, and general comments.

Sincerely,
Bruce S.
[email protected]
@BruceDaTruth2 [Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok]
@EssentialDiscoursePodcastMedia [YouTube]

Beyond the Provider, Protector, and Producer: A Holistic View of Manhood

On this episode of Essential Discourse Podcast, host Bruce Smith seeks to answer the age-old question: "What is a Man?" Despite receiving fewer responses than he expected, Bruce delves deep into the subject matter through personal study, including reading various books and articles. He acknowledges that people will have different definitions of what it means to be a man, but takes a holistic perspective on the issue. This episode serves as an introduction to the upcoming series exploring what it means to be a man beyond traditional roles. Listeners are encouraged to join the Essential Discourse community and provide feedback. Tune in to this episode for an enlightening and thought-provoking conversation. 

For your convenience, the Essential Discourse Podcast is available on your favorite streaming apps, including Apple Podcast, Spotify, and iHeart. We are also online at https://www.edpshow.com/.

You can follow The Essential Discourse Podcast on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. We welcome and encourage your comments about the podcast, individual episodes, and other content.

Please consider subscribing to our community on the website and social media platforms.

Thank you for your support, reviews, and general comments.

Sincerely,
Bruce S.
[email protected]
@BruceDaTruth2 [Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok]
@EssentialDiscoursePodcastMedia [YouTube]

As professionals and collective people, we all are taught conflict resolution. You can conduct a Google Search for conflict resolution and find a plethora of articles, self-education courses, etcetera concerning the subject matter by world-renowned experts.

Hardly anyone receives a thorough education in reference to Internal Conflict. Why is that? When you consider that all people will at some point have to contend with a war within one's self.

It occurred to me that we learn how to manage and come to positive resolutions regarding external conflicts (things we cannot control) but are left to fend for ourselves in reference to Internal Conflicts.

In this episode, I put forth an effort to (1) identify what Internal Conflict is & what causes Internal Conflict, (2) How Internal Conflict can negatively affect us, (3) Steps we can deploy to lessen the effects of Internal Conflict, and (4) how to make the best decisions possible despite being conflicted.   

Works Cited: 
n.d. Author Learning Center. Accessed March 3, 2023. https://www.authorlearningcenter.com/writing/fiction/w/creating-conflict/2912/conflict-101-internal-conflict---article.

Center, Author Learning. n.d. Author Learning Center. Accessed March 3, 2023. https://www.authorlearningcenter.com/writing/fiction/w/creating-conflict/2912/conflict-101-internal-conflict---article.

Harry, Jaime. 2022. UT Sothwestern Medical Center. August 10. Accessed March 6, 2023. https://www.utsouthwestern.edu/about-us/faculty-wellness/archives/thrive/inner-conflict.html#:~:text=You%20must%20first%20identify%20who,issue%20and%20find%20a%20resolution.

Luna, Aletheia. 2021. Loner Wolf. August 3. Accessed March 2, 2023. https://lonerwolf.com/internal-conflict-types/.

For your convenience, the Essential Discourse Podcast is available on your favorite streaming apps, including Apple Podcast, Spotify, and iHeart. We are also online at https://www.edpshow.com/.

You can follow The Essential Discourse Podcast on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. We welcome and encourage your comments about the podcast, individual episodes, and other content.

Please consider subscribing to our community on the website and social media platforms.

Thank you for your support, reviews, and general comments.

Sincerely,
Bruce S.
[email protected]
@BruceDaTruth2 [Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok]
@EssentialDiscoursePodcastMedia [YouTube]

It never ceases to amaze me how older people, particularly "church folk" with vast experiential knowledge act as if they've always been as mature as they are currently. As if they've always been PERFECT. 

Obviously, better stated, hopefully, the 24-year-old version of you wouldn't behave, dress, speak, think, etc. like the 14-year-old version of you. However, the 30, 40, and so on versions of ourselves tend to develop convenient amnesia regarding our past. Specifically, our poor choices, decision-making, and the lesson learned from the series of consequences resulting from our choices. 

Many of us unmercifully bash the younger generations and our peers as if we are perfect, without faults or sins. For this, we ought to be ashamed of ourselves. We oftentimes miss opportunities to draw people in with loving-kindness. Instead, we push people out and away with #Hypocritical #Condemnation rhetoric. 

We often fail to extend to others the measure of grace, compassion, empathy, and encouragement we received. We tend to act as if we've always had it together. You and I know that is not true. 

Understanding this truth, why do we continue to participate in and or perpetuate the Hypocritical Condemnation of those who have yet to arrive at a higher level of growth and maturity? Why do we not seize these opportunities to share our testimonies to strengthen, encourage and provide hope? Why do "so-called Christians" not find value in paying it forward? It is the Love of the Christ. 

Oftentimes, "So-Called Christians" who self-identify as Evangelicals, Baptists, Lutherans, Presbyterians, Pentecostals, Catholics, etc., can not be distinguished from non-Believers. One could contend that there's no love, life, or power within these particular people. And because of this, they stand and present as poor representatives of Christ, Christianity, and the Church. 

It's past time for True Believers to take a stand. It's time for True Believers to model Christ and be the best Ambassadors we can be. Live the Christian Life and put an end to Hypocritical Condemnation. 
John 3:16-17 | Romans 8:1-2 | Matthew 22:36-40 

For your convenience, the Essential Discourse Podcast is available on your favorite streaming apps, including Apple Podcast, Spotify, and iHeart. We are also online at https://www.edpshow.com/.

You can follow The Essential Discourse Podcast on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. We welcome and encourage your comments about the podcast, individual episodes, and other content.

Please consider subscribing to our community on the website and social media platforms.

Thank you for your support, reviews, and general comments.

Sincerely,
Bruce S.
[email protected]
@BruceDaTruth2 [Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok]
@EssentialDiscoursePodcastMedia [YouTube]