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Bad Bunny is having a major cultural moment, and for many of us, especially in the Puerto Rican community, there is real pride in seeing that kind of global impact. But what happens when cultural celebration and personal conviction do not fully align?

In this episode, we have an honest conversation about fandom, influence, and what it looks like to walk with discernment in today’s culture. We talk about the tension believers can feel when someone can be both culturally significant and personally conflicting, and how to navigate that space without becoming judgmental or compromising our values.

This is not about cancel culture. It is not about tearing anyone down. It is about learning how to live in the world with wisdom, guard our hearts, and lead our homes well in a culture that is constantly pulling for our attention.

If you have ever wrestled with being proud of the moment but cautious about the message, this conversation is for you.

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In this episode, LJ and I talk about the story that plays in our heads and how it shapes the way we see ourselves, our relationships, and even God. I share how I’ve wrestled with thoughts like “I’m not good enough,” “I always mess things up,” and “God must be disappointed in me,” and how those narratives quietly started to influence my decisions and my faith. We dig into where these stories can come from, how they show up in everyday life, and the difference between conviction that leads to growth and shame that keeps us stuck. Romans 12 reminds us that real transformation starts with renewing our minds, and for me, that has meant learning to let God rewrite the story I’ve believed for years. If you’ve ever felt stuck in guilt, trying to prove your worth, hiding struggles, or feeling like you never measure up, this conversation is for you. This week, I challenge you to ask yourself one question: Is the story I’m telling myself bringing life, or draining it? It might be time to change the narrative. 

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Season 2 of The Honest Pursuit Podcast kicks off with a conversation that feels both heavy and meaningful as we sit down with our good friend Saul while his time in Okinawa comes to an end and a new chapter begins for him and his family back in Texas. This episode is about more than a move. It is about growth, faith, and the unexpected ways a season of life can shape who you become. We talk through what changed in Saul during his time overseas, the lessons he did not see coming, and how this season refined his perspective, priorities, and trust in God. It is an honest look at brotherhood, the value of strong friendships, and what community really means for men walking through life together. We also reflect on what it looks like to carry the right things into a new season and leave behind what no longer serves you. If you have ever had to say goodbye to close friends, step into the unknown, or trust God through a transition that did not fully make sense at first, this conversation will resonate deeply. It is about gratitude for where you have been, clarity about who you are becoming, and faith for what is ahead as we begin Season 2 together. 

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In this special episode of The Honest Pursuit Podcast, Jose and LJ take a step back to reflect on the journey from Episode 1 to now. From the emotional weight of recent events to the personal growth that has come through honest conversations, they share what has impacted them most along the way.

They open up about the challenges of consistency, the importance of keeping the focus on Jesus rather than stats, and the powerful feedback that has reminded them why they started this podcast in the first place. Jose and LJ also look ahead to the future, discussing their hopes for building a stronger community and living out the Great Commission through this platform.

If you’ve been with us from the beginning or are just joining now, this episode is a reminder that tomorrow isn’t promised, but today we can encourage, uplift, and grow together in Christ.

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In this episode of The Honest Pursuit, we sit down with Brother Acha Goris, a Military and Family Life Counselor, to explore the unique challenges and rewards of counseling within the military community. Acha shares her personal journey into this calling, how her Christian faith shapes her approach, and what it looks like to bridge the gap between military culture and spiritual values.

Together, we discuss the stigma around seeking help—especially among men—the emotional weight of counseling military families, and the practices that keep her grounded in faith and family. Acha also offers wisdom for anyone serving in high-pressure environments and encouragement for those navigating their own battles with stress, trauma, or doubt.

Whether you’re in uniform, supporting someone who is, or simply looking for hope in hard seasons, this conversation is full of honesty, encouragement, and truth.

Download Acha Goris 100 Life Lessons at https://honestpursuitpodcast.com/resources

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In this episode, we sit down with our friend Eazar De Guzman to talk through one of the toughest seasons of his life. After losing his mom earlier this year, he opened up about what those first days were like and how he kept showing up to lead worship even when it hurt. We talk about the quiet moments with God, the weight of expectations, and the ways community helped him keep going. Eazar shares how grief shaped his faith and how worship became more than just a song and how it became part of his healing. If you've ever been in a season where it was hard to sing, this conversation will meet you right there.

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In this episode of The Honest Pursuit, we open up a raw and necessary conversation about addiction—not just the obvious kinds, but the hidden struggles many of us carry in silence. Whether it’s alcohol, porn, social media, or anything we turn to for escape, addiction follows a cycle that can leave us feeling trapped and ashamed. But there’s hope. We explore what the Bible says about these struggles, unpack the addiction cycle, and share real takeaways for anyone battling temptation or walking the road to recovery. This isn’t about judgment—it’s about freedom, grace, and the power of God to redeem even the darkest places.

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In this episode, we sit down with our friend Saul for a raw and honest conversation about what it means to live boldly for Jesus in today’s world. From dealing with people’s opinions and family expectations to shifting what we consume and battling shame as men, we open up about the real struggles and victories of walking with Christ. Whether you’ve ever felt the pressure to hide your faith or questioned if you’re doing enough, this one’s for you.

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Words hold incredible power—they shape our reality, influence our relationships, and can either build up or tear down. In this thoughtful episode, we dive deep into the transformative strength of words, drawing from personal stories, biblical wisdom, and practical communication strategies. Discover how to harness your words to foster healthier relationships, lead effectively, and positively impact your daily interactions. Whether you're striving to enhance your marriage, friendships, professional life, or your spiritual journey, this conversation offers insights to empower you with intentional, impactful speech. Tune in and learn to speak life into every situation.

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Life is full of wilderness seasons—times of uncertainty, struggle, and testing. Whether it's a career setback, a personal loss, or a battle with doubt, these moments can feel isolating and overwhelming. But what if the wilderness isn’t just a place of hardship, but a place where God meets us, shapes us, and prepares us for what's next?

In this episode, we explore the story of Job and other biblical figures who endured their own wilderness experiences. We’ll share personal stories of trials, discuss how suffering refines our faith, and break down practical ways to navigate these difficult seasons with trust in God.

Join us as we talk about embracing solitude, shifting our perspective on hardships, and finding strength through community. If you're feeling lost in the wilderness, know that you're not alone—God is with you, and there is purpose in the journey.