Bold Journeys Podcast

Hosted by Rob Spee | Resilience and Faith Explorer

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Oct 2026

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Overcoming adversity is a journey that calls for resilience and faith, along with perseverance when life gets difficult. Hosted by Rob Spee, Bold Journeys brings you stories of grit, growth, and extraordinary challenges—chosen adventures like climbing Mt. Everest and hardships no one expects. Discover outdoor adventure stories and daily lessons in mental toughness, with encouragement to reflect, grow, and live boldly. New episodes every Tuesday.

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October 13, 2026Episode 271 hr 8 min

What Fishing in Alaska Couldn't Fix

Colleen Clifford spent decades fishing in Alaska, working long shifts on factory trawlers and living a life most people only see in documentaries. But beneath the rugged adventure was a wound she carried from age nineteen — a moment of shame that quietly shaped the next forty years of her life. Binge drinking became the way she buried that wound, a pattern that looked manageable from the outside but was slowly eroding her identity, her relationships, and her hope. In this episode, Colleen traces her drinking back to the moment that changed everything, the diagnosis that created a false identity, and the years she spent trying to outrun the truth. She shares how her husband's alcohol‑related suicide forced her to confront her own story, how faith and prayer carried her through grief, and how writing her book, Life Beyond the Binge , helped her uncover the deeper narrative beneath her behavior. This conversation is about courage — the courage to stop running, to name the wound, and to rebuild a life with honesty and purpose. It's a reminder that the real battle is often the one happening beneath the surface, and healing begins when we finally tell the truth. What We Cover in This Episode • How one shame-filled moment at nineteen created a false identity that shaped Colleen's life for decades • How writing helped her uncover the deeper story beneath 40 years of binge drinking • How grief, her husband's alcohol-related suicide, and faith shaped her healing journey • How destructive behavior often grows out of believing a lie about who we are • How honesty, coaching, and courage helped Colleen break free from shame and rebuild her life Key Takeaway Colleen's story reminds us that shame can quietly shape a life — but naming it can give that life back. Her journey encourages us to look beneath our coping habits, tell the truth about where the story began, and trust that God can rebuild what shame tried to steal. Resources Colleen's Book: Life Beyond The Binge: A Commercial Fisherwoman's Journey Home 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline - available 24/7/365. Your conversations are free and confidential Veterans and service members can access the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 and pressing 1 . Join the Journey If you know someone who's carrying a hidden story or struggling with destructive habits, please share this episode with them. It might be exactly what they need to hear. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@boldjourneysco Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boldjourneysco/ Through The Fire Newsletter: https://boldjourneys.co/subscribe/ Chapters 00:00 — The Story Beneath the Drinking 04:05 — Naming the False Identity 06:10 — Writing Through Grief 09:17 — When the Book Turned Back on Her 10:01 — The Moment That Built the Shame 11:55 — Growing Up Catholic in Seattle 15:33 — How Binge Drinking Took Hold 18:30 — Why the Shame Stayed Hidden 20:14 — Testing Death on the Skykomish 23:41 — The Diagnosis That Changed Everything 30:34 — Freedom Through Honesty 31:31 — When Identity Turns Into a Lie 34:05 — Running to Alaska 38:28 — Life and Work on the Factory Trawlers 48:24 — The "95/5" Drinking Pattern 50:35 — Losing Her Husband and Carrying the Guilt 58:24 — The Drunk-Driving Wake-Up Call 63:33 — Finding Help Through Coaching 65:26 — Writing the Book and Finding the Root 68:45 — Suicide Prevention and Her Mission 73:40 — Encouragement for Anyone Carrying Shame

September 30, 2026Episode 261 hr 13 min

From Cancer Victim to Shepherd of Hope

Try to imagine sitting across from your doctor with stomach pains and hearing the words, "You've got stage 4 cancer and less than a year to live." Episode 26 features Gary Young, a cancer survivor whose story is difficult, honest, and anchored in faith. Gary grew up on a Michigan farm where hard work and resilience were part of everyday life. Those early lessons became essential when he was diagnosed with stage‑four abdominal cancer. His journey shows what it looks like to face a life‑changing diagnosis with community support, clear purpose, and trust in God. What We Cover in This Episode How Gary leaned on friends, church members, and mentors during the hardest season of his life The door God opened through HIPEC and how that operation changed Gary's hope for survival The role faith played in helping him stay steady through diagnosis, surgery, and recovery The impact Gary's faith had on the people around him, including his surgeon How cancer clarified Gary's purpose and led him to become a Beacon of Hope for others Key Takeaway Gary's story is a reminder that faith, community, and purpose matter most when life becomes difficult. His journey encourages us to invest in the people around us, stay rooted in our faith, and pay attention to the ways God may be shaping our next chapter. Join the Journey If you know someone who's facing a difficult season, please share this episode with them. It might be exactly what they need to hear. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@boldjourneysco Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boldjourneysco/ Through The Fire Newsletter: https://boldjourneys.co/subscribe/ Chapters 00:00 — Finding Peace Before Surgery 02:52 — The Diagnosis That Changed Everything 06:29 — Searching for a Treatment That Could Help 10:33 — When a Doctor Becomes a Friend 12:26 — Where Faith Took Root 20:01 — How Community Carried the Weight 29:04 — Hope That Doesn't Stay Still 38:05 — Learning to Trust God Daily 40:08 — Staying Steady in Work and Life 41:34 — How Calling Comes Into Focus 43:34 — Faith That Shows Up at Work 49:19 — Building Made for More 55:01 — Facing New Trials After Cancer 01:01:41 — Practices That Strengthen Hope 01:08:56 — Final Encouragement for the Journey

September 15, 2026Episode 2554 min

From Struggles to Triumphs: Adventures on the Appalachian Trail – Part 2

In this episode of Bold Journeys , we continue our conversation with Appalachian Trail thru‑hiker Jason Turner , whose 2,000‑mile trek reshaped his faith, his resilience, and his understanding of what truly matters. Known on the trail as Fancy Feet after a stumble that turned into a quick recovery, Jason's story is equal parts grit, humility, and spiritual awakening. This second part dives deeper into the moments that tested him — physically, emotionally, and spiritually — and the lessons he carried home. What We Cover in This Episode • Near‑Hypothermia & Hard Lessons Jason shares the night that pushed him to the edge and forced him to confront his limits. It's a raw look at how adversity clarifies what's essential. • Emotional Resilience Over Physical Pain The loneliness of the trail became the real battleground. Jason opens up about the emotional lows and how perseverance shaped his character. • Nature's Quiet Healing From sunrise stillness to shared campfires, Jason found God's presence in the quiet places. The trail became a space for spiritual and emotional restoration. • Minimalism & Simplicity Living with less taught Jason to appreciate the basics. He returned home with a renewed desire for a life not defined by material excess. • Human Connection & Community The trail brought strangers who became teachers, friends, and spiritual companions. Jason reflects on the power of authentic connection. • Stepping Beyond Comfort Zones Jason's journey is a reminder that growth happens when we choose courage over comfort and trust God with the unknown. Key Takeaway Jason's story is more than a hiking recap — it's a call to action. A reminder that the dreams we label "too big" or "too risky" might just require one bold step of faith. Join the Journey If this story energized you, share it with your adventurous friends and join our journey: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@boldjourneysco Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boldjourneysco/ Through The Fire Newsletter: https://boldjourneys.co/subscribe/ Chapters 00:00 The Night Everything Went Wrong 00:25 Picking Up Where We Left Off 03:06 Storms, Survival, and a Close Call 08:25 Trail Hazards You Don't See Coming 11:50 Views That Make the Pain Worth It 15:55 Faith Moments That Changed Him 27:45 Returning to Real‑World Comforts 28:46 Are Post‑Trail Blues Real? 30:38 Facing the Big Question: What Now? 33:11 Living Intentionally After the AT 36:39 Rapid‑Fire: Dangers You Should Know 43:16 Trail Names, Faith Talks, and Final Wisdom

September 1, 2026Episode 2436 min

From Struggles to Triumphs: Adventures on the Appalachian Trail – Part 1

In Part 1 of this two‑episode conversation, adventure seeker Jason Turner opens up about the raw, unfiltered reality of hiking the Appalachian Trail — 2,197.9 miles from Georgia to Maine. This isn't a highlight reel. It's the honest story of doubt, loneliness, faith, and the grit required to keep moving through the pain. Jason shares the emotional lows that hit early, including the moment he called his wife and admitted he wasn't sure he could continue. From there, the trail became a classroom — teaching him about connection, vulnerability, and the courage it takes to step into the unknown. What We Cover in Part 1 The emotional crash that nearly ended Jason's journey How loneliness became one of the toughest challenges on the trail The role faith played in helping him push forward The early physical battles — bruised feet, worn‑down shoes, and the grind of millions of steps Why slowing down became a crucial part of his endurance Why This Episode Matters Jason's story is a reminder that every bold journey includes struggle. The breakthrough often comes after the moment you think you can't go any further. Jason's honesty sets the stage for a powerful Part 2, where we explore the climb to Katahdin and the triumph that made every step worth it. If you've ever faced a challenge that pushed you to your limits, this episode will speak directly to you. Join the Journey If this story energized you, share it with your adventurous friends and join our journey: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@boldjourneysco Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boldjourneysco/ Through The Fire Newsletter: https://boldjourneys.co/subscribe/ Chapters 00:00 The Moment Doubt Hit 00:23 A Glimpse of What's Coming 02:04 Who Is Jason Turner? 02:21 Tracking the Impossible 03:39 Standing at the Finish 04:56 What Pain Teaches You 07:16 Life After the Trail 08:43 Why Rest Days Matter 09:51 The Weight of Being Alone 10:43 Night Fear Is Real 11:41 The Dream That Started It All 15:42 A Calling You Can't Ignore 20:22 Healing You Don't Expect 21:30 Who Actually Makes It? 22:58 Inside the Hiker Bubble 25:37 Miles, Age, and Reality 27:44 The First Step at Springer 29:12 Loneliness Changes Everything

August 18, 2026Episode 231 hr 12 min

Finding Freedom in Recovery: A Journey from Addiction to Acceptance

Chances are you know someone in your family or circle of friends and colleagues who has battled an addiction. This week on the Bold Journeys Podast , Cesar Wurm — author of The Powers of Addiction — opens up about his battle with alcoholism, the generational patterns that shaped him, and the moment he finally chose sobriety. From growing up with an alcoholic father in Brazil to living a double life as a "fun guy" in the hospitality industry, Cesar walks us through the hidden cost of addiction and the breakthrough that saved his life. Cesar grew up watching addiction shape his family, and for years he carried that same pattern into adulthood — quietly, successfully, and completely hidden from the world. In this conversation, he pulls back the curtain on the double life he built, the physical and emotional breaking points he could no longer outrun, and the moment he finally faced the truth about who he was becoming. He talks openly about the role his wife played and how AA helped him rebuild his identity from the inside out. If you've ever battled something in silence or felt trapped by expectations, Cesar's journey will hit you hard — and leave you wanting to hear the rest of the story. Key Takeaways Addiction is subtle until it's not. It creeps in quietly and becomes a lifestyle before you realize it. Compassion and accountability work together. Real change requires both. Faith and community matter. Cesar found strength through AA, his sponsor, and a higher power. Self‑acceptance is freedom. When you stop performing and stop hiding, you start healing. About Cesar Wurm Cesar Wurm is the author of The Powers of Addiction and a hospitality industry professional who rebuilt his life through sobriety, faith, and the support of his family. His mission is to help others recognize the signs of addiction and find the courage to pursue recovery. Join the Journey If this episode hit home for you, share it with someone who needs hope today. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@boldjourneysco Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boldjourneysco/ Through The Fire Newsletter: https://boldjourneys.co/subscribe/ Chapters 00:00 The Hidden Routine That Fueled His Addiction 03:06 Addiction in Plain Sight 06:47 Is It Genetics or Choice? 09:52 How Early Drinking Set a Trap He Didn't See Coming 12:33 The Grief He Buried — And How It Started to Surface 16:04 Blackouts, Success, and the Illusion of Control 21:21 A Fresh Start in America 27:04 The Denial That Kept Him Drinking 29:27 How Every Day Became a Strategy to Stay Drunk 38:10 The Breaking Point: What Finally Forced Change 41:36 Is Addiction a Disease or a Decision? 42:24 Relapse, Shame, and the Power of Compassion 43:28 The Wake ‑ Up Call That Changed Everything 45:23 Why Sponsors Matter More Than You Think 46:37 Finding a Higher Power When You Don't Want One 01:09:40 A Challenge to Anyone Fighting Their Own Battle

August 4, 2026Episode 2249 min

Beyond the Barrier: Physical, Mental, and Spiritual Success — Part 2

In Part 2 of my conversation with endurance athlete and performance coach JD Tremblay, we go deeper into what it really takes to break through the barriers holding you back — physically, mentally, and spiritually. JD opens up about the systems he built through ultra‑endurance racing, the faith that kept him moving when everything in him wanted to quit, and the moment he realized his "normal" wasn't normal at all. That realization pushed him into a new mission: helping others find clarity, align their actions with their values, and pursue goals that actually change their lives. We talk about: Why faith becomes fuel when you're facing failure How the right community can accelerate your growth Breaking mental barriers that keep you stuck Aligning your daily actions with the future you're building What it means to set goals that scare you — and why you should If you're ready to push past your own limits and step into the next chapter of your journey, this episode will give you the clarity and challenge you need. Join the Journey If this conversation resonates, subscribe for more stories of grit, adventure, and faith — and share it with someone who needs strength today. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@boldjourneysco Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boldjourneysco/ Through The Fire Newsletter: https://boldjourneys.co/subscribe/ Chapters 00:00 Choosing Faith Over Failure 04:13 The Secret to Training Less & Gaining More 06:47 From an EpicDeca to New Mission 14:51 The "Hungry Warrior" Origin Story 23:08 How to Build an Unstoppable Mindset 26:19 Why Even High-Achievers Burn Out 27:07 The "EPIC" Identity Shift 27:38 How Community Actually Saves Lives 29:28 The 4 Pillars of the DECA Framework 29:55 Using Structure to Build Discipline 31:59 How to Fuel Your Journey Correctly 34:06 Finding Your Career Capacity 39:13 Your Action Challenge 49:03 Set a Goal That Scares You

July 28, 2026Episode 2157 min

Beyond the High: Reclaiming Purpose with John Graham - Part 2

Part 2 of my conversation with John Graham picks up where the chaos left off. After years of chasing danger, John finally has to face the fallout. He's led on a spiritual journey and a moment at sea that forces him to choose what kind of man he is going to be. This episode gets into the turning point: how he confronted his past, how he rebuilt himself, and how he committed to a life of service instead of adrenaline. In This Episode Vietnam, PTSD, and the emotional work he could no longer avoid How encounter groups pushed him to confront himself The unexpected spiritual path that cracked him open The typhoon off Alaska that nearly killed him The decision that changed his direction How the Giraffe Heroes Project gave him a mission and a place to serve If you missed Part 1, go back and listen — it sets the stage for everything John reveals here. Stay Connected If these conversations help you think deeper and live with more clarity, make sure you're plugged in: Subscribe to the Bold Journeys Newsletter for weekly insights and episode updates Subscribe on YouTube for full episodes and clips Follow on Instagram for behind‑the‑scenes content and daily encouragement Your support helps this show reach more people who need these conversations. Chapters 00:00 Part Two Setup 02:34 Vietnam Homecoming PTSD 03:27 Encounter Group Breakthrough 10:34 Out of Body Experiences 15:58 The Sign and Healing 21:43 Cruise Ship Fire 28:41 Panic in the Lifeboat 30:03 Dawn Rescue Attempts 34:04 A Choice with God 36:32 Founding Giraffe Heroes 41:35 Badass Granddad Goes Viral 47:14 Finding Meaning and Grace

July 14, 2026Episode 2056 min

Chasing the Next Peak Nearly Cost Him Everything - Part 1

In Part 1 of my conversation with adventurer John Graham, we dig into his early years where adrenaline drove his decisions and danger became his drug of choice. John's early life was shaped by a need to prove himself. That led him to mountain climbing, revolutions, and war zones. The more extreme the situation, the more alive he felt—and the further his moral compass drifted. This episode sets the stage for Part 2, where we get into the moments that forced him to confront who he'd become and the amazing story of how he finally found purpose. In This Episode How a summer job at 17 blew up the "safe path" he was expected to follow The early experiences that fueled his need to prove his toughness Why dangerous situations became an addictive escape The point where adrenaline started steering his life The point he know he lost his moral compass Listen to Part 2 coming next Part 2 dives into John's career in the State Department, the moral reckoning, and his shift toward purpose. Stay Connected If you're enjoying these stories of grit, adventure and faith, be sure to follow along on our other channels: Subscribe to the Bold Journeys Newsletter for weekly insights and episode updates Subscribe on YouTube for full episodes and clips Follow on Instagram for behind‑the‑scenes content and daily encouragement Your support helps this show reach more people who can benefit from these inspirational stories. Chapters 00:00 First Lesson in Manhood 10:13 Catholic Mom's Dilemma 13:00 Hitchhiking into War 15:13 Foreign Legion Lessons 16:38 Denali North Wall Ascent 21:12 Brushes with Death 29:04 Avalanche Aftermath 29:29 Ricochet Wall Legacy 31:28 Adrenaline Addiction 32:48 Hitchhiking Into Wars 34:13 Laos CIA Nightlife 36:59 Love Versus Toughness 42:47 James Bond Diplomacy 51:14 Hue Moral Reckoning

June 30, 2026Episode 191 hr 9 min

Jesus' Resurrection: Does the History Actually Hold Up?

In this episode of Bold Journeys , we dig into one of the most important questions anyone wrestling with faith eventually faces: Is there real historical evidence for the resurrection of Jesus? New Testament scholar and author Dr. Mike Licona shares his personal battle with doubt, the research that reshaped his faith, and the historical case that convinced him the resurrection wasn't just a belief — it was an event grounded in eyewitness testimony and early Christian records. We talk through Paul's transformation, external historical sources, debates with skeptics, and why alternative explanations fall apart when you actually pressure‑test them. This conversation is honest, direct, and built for anyone navigating questions about faith, truth, and the foundation of Christianity. In This Episode Licona's journey through doubt The historical case for the resurrection Paul's testimony and early Christian creeds External sources: Josephus, Tacitus, and more How personal experience and evidence work together Stay Connected If these conversations help you think deeper and live with more clarity, make sure you're plugged in: Subscribe to the Bold Journeys Newsletter for weekly insights and episode updates Subscribe on YouTube for full episodes and clips Follow on Instagram for behind‑the‑scenes content and daily encouragement Your support helps this show reach more people who want more conversations on grit, faith and adventure. Chapters 00:00 Doubting the Resurrection 01:38 Meet Mike Licona 04:35 Campus Questions Today 09:22 Childhood and Conversion 15:38 From Music to Ministry 28:19 Researching the Evidence 35:50 Debate Prep Mindset 36:56 Did Jesus Exist 40:20 Resurrection Case Starts With Paul 47:01 Martyrdom And Eyewitness Claims 51:26 James Skeptic To Believer

June 16, 2026Episode 1840 min

Most People Quit Here. JD Kept Going. - Part 1

In this Part 1 episode of Bold Journeys, we get real about what it means to push yourself — not for bragging rights, not for a medal, but because sometimes your life depends on it. For some people, a daily workout is enough to stay grounded. For others, like JD Tremblay, the dial has to be turned all the way up. That's how he ended up taking on 10 Ironman triathlons in 10 days — an extreme challenge that matched the intensity of what he was fighting on the inside. This isn't a story about being superhuman. It's a story about finding yourself, learning what kind of challenge wakes you up, pulls you out of the dark, and forces you to rebuild. Physical struggle has a way of stripping everything down and pull you out of the darkness. You don't need to be an Ironman Triathlete to get something out of this episode. What matters is finding the level of challenge that pushes you — the version that makes you sharper, clearer, and more alive. JD's journey proves that when you push your limits, you don't just get stronger, you may just get your life back. Join the Journey If this conversation resonates, subscribe for more stories of grit, adventure, and faith — and share it with someone who needs strength today. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@boldjourneysco Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boldjourneysco/ Through The Fire Newsletter: https://boldjourneys.co/subscribe/ Chapters 00:00 Intro: JD's Calling 00:26 Ironman as Escape 03:06 Roots and Childhood 03:55 Divorce and Enlistment 06:49 Child Star Spotlight 09:23 Military Culture Shock 12:33 Leaving Service for School 15:33 Identity Crisis and Depression 19:45 Untrained Ironman Breakthrough 21:46 Coaching and Ultraman Rise 27:52 Epic Deca Decision 36:28 Epic Deca Lessons and Mission

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