Before he became a bold missionary or a martyr for the gospel, Saul of Tarsus was a man driven by zeal, pride, and religious fury. In this opening episode of our summer series, Murderer, Missionary, Martyr, we go back to the beginning—to the man Paul was before he met Jesus.

Who was Saul? What shaped him? And how could someone so radically opposed to Christ become His most devoted ambassador?

This episode explores the intensity of Saul’s upbringing, his ruthless reputation, and the deep convictions that made him feared by the early church. But it also sets the stage for the kind of transformation only God can orchestrate.

If you’ve ever wondered whether God can really change a life—this is where that story begins.

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Welcome to the first episode of Through Grace and Grit, a new summer series exploring the disciplines that shape a life in Christ. In this opening conversation, we lay the foundation by talking about the essential partnership between God's grace and our grit. It's not one or the other—it’s both. Becoming spiritually strong and living life to the full in Jesus requires divine power and daily perseverance.

Over the summer, we’ll walk through classic Christian disciplines—like prayer, Sabbath, Scripture, and more—and how they train us to live anchored, fruitful lives. I hope you’ll join us for the journey.

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Augustine: The Restless Heart That Found Home”

In this episode, we explore the extraordinary life of Augustine of Hippo—a man whose journey from rebellion to redemption has inspired seekers for over 1,600 years. From his early years chasing pleasure and prestige in the Roman Empire to his dramatic conversion and lasting impact on Christian thought, Augustine’s story is one of raw honesty, relentless pursuit, and radical grace. Whether you know him as a saint, a scholar, or simply as the man behind Confessions, this episode will bring Augustine to life in a way that’s relatable, challenging, and deeply encouraging for men trying to live with purpose today.

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In this episode of The Lion and the Bear, we explore the quiet power and sacred beauty of America’s public parks—from the trails of your local greenway to the grandeur of our national parks. These are not just places to hike or camp—they’re sanctuaries that help us slow down, recharge, and reconnect with the Creator. Whether it’s the stillness of a sunrise over a lake or the grit of a mountain trail under your boots, the outdoors has a way of waking us up to what matters. This episode is your invitation to step outside, breathe deep, and meet with God in the wild places.

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When Ernest Shackleton set out to cross Antarctica, he had no idea his greatest legacy wouldn’t be in reaching the goal—but in surviving the failure. In this episode, we dive into the legendary expedition of the Endurance, where Shackleton’s ship was trapped in ice and his men faced two brutal years in one of the most unforgiving places on earth. What followed was a masterclass in courage, grit, and sacrificial leadership. Join us as we uncover the story of a man who refused to let hardship define him—and who led his crew home without losing a single soul. Shackleton’s life offers a powerful blueprint for men called to lead in the face of fear, chaos, and the unknown.

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In this episode of The Lion and the Bear, I sit down with Joel Bates, Director of Discovery Ministries, to explore how the outdoors shapes the hearts and character of men. Joel shares how Discovery Ministries helps people grow through adventure, challenge, and grit—all in the context of God’s wild creation.

This conversation will encourage you to step outside, embrace discomfort, and rediscover the sacredness of wild places. Because in the formation of the masculine soul, the wilderness is often God's classroom.

Discovery Ministries: https://www.dmchallenge.org/

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Happy Trees Table Co.: https://happytreesco.com/

Superior Roofing: https://www.superiorroof.net/

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Explorer, privateer, and national hero—Sir Francis Drake’s life was anything but ordinary. In this episode, we chart the course of the man who became the first Englishman to circumnavigate the globe and helped shape the rise of the British Empire. From daring raids on Spanish ships to his pivotal role in defeating the Spanish Armada, Drake was both feared and celebrated. But was he a pirate or a patriot? A man of faith or ambition? Join us as we navigate the thrilling, complex life of Sir Francis Drake and the legacy he left on history and the high seas.

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Connect with show sponsors:

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Happy Trees Table Co.: https://happytreesco.com/

Superior Roofing: https://www.superiorroof.net/

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Motherhood is one of God's most beautiful and powerful designs. In this episode, we reflect on the vital role a mother plays in shaping lives and nurturing faith. Scripture teaches us to honor and cherish our mothers, recognizing their strength, wisdom, and sacrificial love as reflections of God's own heart.

We’ll explore why honoring our mothers isn't just a suggestion—it’s a command woven into God's vision for family and flourishing. This conversation calls us to gratitude, respect, and a renewed commitment to bless the women who have blessed us so deeply.

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Connect with show sponsors:

Roderique Realty: (417) 825-7667 

Anvil Strength & Wellness: https://www.facebook.com/erik.theis

Email: [email protected]

Happy Trees Table Co.: https://happytreesco.com/

Superior Roofing: https://www.superiorroof.net/

Connect with Blackbox International:
Blackbox’s website: http://blackboxinternational.org/
Support Blackbox: https://blackboxinternational.org/the-lion-the-bear-podcast/

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Every boy longs to know he has what it takes—that he's no longer just a child, but a man. In this episode, we explore the ancient and global hunger for initiation into manhood. From the jungles of the Amazon to the mountains of Mongolia, we take a survey of fascinating and sometimes brutal rites of passage that cultures around the world have used to mark the transition from boyhood to manhood. Then we turn our attention to you, Dad—offering practical insight on how to create a meaningful rite of passage for your son. Whether he’s 8 or 18, your intentionality can help forge strength, identity, and purpose in the heart of your boy.

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Connect with show sponsors:

Roderique Realty: (417) 825-7667 

Anvil Strength & Wellness: https://www.facebook.com/erik.theis

Email: [email protected]

Happy Trees Table Co.: https://happytreesco.com/

Superior Roofing: https://www.superiorroof.net/

Connect with Blackbox International:
Blackbox’s website: http://blackboxinternational.org/
Support Blackbox: https://blackboxinternational.org/the-lion-the-bear-podcast/

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Few figures in history have shaped the trajectory of Christianity like Constantine the Great. In this episode, we examine the life and legacy of the Roman emperor who ended Christian persecution and set the stage for the faith to flourish across the empire. From the dramatic battle that led to his conversion to the Edict of Milan and the Council of Nicaea, Constantine’s story is a complex and pivotal chapter in the spread of Christianity. Join us as we explore how political power, personal belief, and divine providence intersected in the life of the emperor who legalized the cross.

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Connect with us:
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Connect with show sponsors:

Roderique Realty: (417) 825-7667 

Anvil Strength & Wellness: https://www.facebook.com/erik.theis

Email: [email protected]

Happy Trees Table Co.: https://happytreesco.com/

Superior Roofing: https://www.superiorroof.net/

Connect with Blackbox International:
Blackbox’s website: http://blackboxinternational.org/
Support Blackbox: https://blackboxinternational.org/the-lion-the-bear-podcast/

Support the show