Bold Journeys Podcast

Hosted by Rob Spee

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Aug 2026

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All around us, people are overcoming extraordinary challenges. Where do they find the resilience and perseverance to move forward? At Bold Journeys, we share stories of grit, adventure, and faith from those whose journeys have both tested them and shaped who they've become. Hosted by Rob Spee, each episode of the podcast explores the resilience it takes to carry on – offering encouragement, perspective, and a reminder of what's possible. We seek guests who've walked through the fire, whether it's a challenge they chose like climbing Mt. Everest, or a knock-down punch life throws at you. If you're ready to reflect, grow, and live boldly... you're in the right place. 🎙️New episodes every Tuesday

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24 recent

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

June 2, 2026Episode 171 hr 9 min

Faith on the Fairway: Choosing Purpose Over Security

Do you question your calling in life? What if your calling isn't what you planned? In this episode, I sit down with Norrie Steyn to talk through the twists and turns that have shaped his life. He grew up in a small South African town, moved across the world to play college golf, and eventually stepped away from a stable career path to pursue ministry. We talk about the moments that pushed him out of what was familiar, the tension between financial security and purpose, and the way he's learned to invest in people through steady, relational work. Norrie shares what it's like to carry his faith into the professional golf world where it isn't always welcomed. Here are a few takeaways from our conversation: Stepping out of comfort zones — Growth often begins when we're willing to leave what's familiar. Purpose over security — Choosing calling over comfort leads to a more honest, meaningful life. Relational ministry matters — Real transformation tends to happen through personal connection. Authenticity in skeptical environments — Staying grounded in your mission matters most when it's tested. Meaning beyond material gains — Fulfillment is found in faith, service, and relationships. If you're navigating your own crossroads or trying to make sense of the next step in front of you, Norrie's story offers a steady reminder that courage usually shows up in the small, consistent decisions we make along the way. 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 CGF Origins and Mission 04:37 Who CGF Serves 05:48 Global Reach Through Golf 06:56 South Africa Roots and Boarding School 13:07 College Golf Path to Ministry 41:07 Ministry Insecurity 43:01 Lonely Calling 43:48 PGA Outreach 46:07 Tours and Bible Studies 49:19 College vs Pros 50:31 Rapid Fire and Wrap

May 19, 2026Episode 1640 min

Grit and Grace: A Pilot's Guide to Accountability (Part 2)

This is Part 2 of my conversation with Christian "Boo" Boucousis. We move beyond his origin story and into the mindset of a fighter pilot. As the CEO of Afterburner, Boo teaches teams how to implement a practical, no nonsense approach to clarity, accountability, and performance — the same principles that kept him alive in the cockpit. This fighter pilot's guide is something we can apply in business and everyday life, including: • Iteration as a daily practice — why quick, honest reflection creates momentum • Clear expectations — how alignment reduces friction in work, relationships, and leadership • Accountability without blame — a simple debrief framework for steady improvement • The D.O.S.E. model — using your brain's chemistry to stay resilient and focused Be sure to watch Part 1 to hear Boo's full journey from his childhood in the Australian outback to the Royal Australian Air Force, his entry to entrepreneurship and his faith transformation. Join the Journey If this conversation resonates, subscribe for more episodes that explore clarity, courage, and the mindsets and faith behind meaningful growth. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@boldjourneysco Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boldjourneysco/ Through The Fire Newsletter: https://boldjourneys.co/subscribe/ Chapters 00:00 Think Like Fighter Pilots 03:03 Afterburner and Mission Focus 04:08 Red Tails Lesson on Mission 05:32 Finding and Buying Afterburner 06:52 Accountability and Skill Benchmarks 09:31 Flight Suit Culture and Identity 12:46 The Cognitive Model of Iteration 15:54 Debriefing vs Blame Reviews 21:44 Applying Iteration at Home 27:06 Biases Beliefs Behaviors Framework 32:20 The Chemistry of Resilience 36:11 Final Questions and Takeaways

April 28, 2026Episode 151 hr 15 min

They Took Your Power. This Is How You Take It Back.

In this episode, Host Rob Spee sits down with survivor and holistic healer Deanna Scaldaferri , whose twenty‑year relationship with a narcissist nearly cost her her voice, her safety, and her sense of self. Deanna opens the door on what these relationships really look like — the early love bombing, the charm that fools everyone else, the private chaos, and the slow erosion of identity that keeps victims trapped. She breaks down the patterns that made her vulnerable, the fear and trauma bonding that kept her in place, and the physical toll of living in constant threat. What follows is a conversation about truth, courage, the breaking point and the long road back to the light. Deanna shares the faith that saved her and the tools that rebuilt her life — therapy, meditation, brain rewiring, and return to God after profound trauma. Today she's using her story to help others name what's happening, break the cycle, and reclaim their God‑given light. You can find Deanna at https://www.healinghandsbydeanna.com/ Key Takeaways Name the cycle so you stop doubting yourself. Love bombing, mask‑slipping, gaslighting, inconsistencies, control — once you understand the pattern, your intuition comes back online. People‑pleasing is not peacekeeping. The "keep the peace" reflex is often the doorway to losing your voice. Reclaiming boundaries is the first step toward reclaiming identity. Charm in public doesn't erase abuse in private. Narcissists curate a persona. Survivors need outside support — therapy, trusted friends, and professionals who understand the dynamic. Your body tells the truth before your mind can. Panic attacks, chest tightness, hypervigilance — these aren't overreactions. They're signals that your system is overwhelmed and unsafe. Healing requires all of you — mind, body, and spirit. Faith, breathwork, movement, somatic therapy, massage, reiki, and intentional "rewiring" help break trauma loops and rebuild confidence. Leaning into God is a turning point, not a last resort. Deanna's story shows how faith can anchor you, and even save you, when grief, loss, and trauma collide. You can leave the victim mindset behind. Healing isn't about pretending it didn't happen — it's about choosing who you become next. 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 Love Bombing Begins 05:01 Deanna Background and Advocacy 06:37 Mask Slips and Confusion 10:29 Charm and Smear Campaign 13:58 Starting a Support Group 17:34 Conscious Control and Gaslighting 28:04 Childhood Roots and Silent Treatment 32:21 Reclaiming Your Light 35:35 Faith Returns to the Forefront 42:24 Choosing Faith Over Anger 46:29 Leaving Victim Mindset Behind 47:31 Reiki and Energy Healing Explained 57:48 Brain Rewiring and Neuroplasticity 01:01:38 Rapid Fire Self Care Habits 01:06:29 Narcissism Red Flags to Watch 01:12:35 Resources and Final Takeaways

April 14, 2026Episode 1455 min

The Cockpit Was My Everything. Then I Walked Away (Part 1)

Christian "Boo" Boucousis flew nearly 1,600 missions as an Australian fighter pilot before life forced him into a completely different path. He talks about what happens when the mission ends—how operating at the peak of the stress curve, mastering the basics until they're automatic, and building identity through call signs shaped the man he became. He also shares how long‑term visualization and relentless reps helped him push through average grades and undiagnosed ADHD to earn the cockpit. His fighter pilot career ended after a medical discharge from an autoimmune joint disease, and he had to rebuild from the ground up. Boo walks through the transition from the cockpit to entrepreneurial success in Afghanistan. The success came with real cost: PTSD, divorce, and a complete reset of identity. Boo opens up about getting help from an unexpected source, rediscovering a faith centered on joy, purpose, and responsibility. His story shows what it looks like to find purpose again when the mission changes, and how discipline, vision, and service can rebuild a life from the inside out. Key Takeaways Purpose has to outlast the mission. When the cockpit disappeared, Boo had to rebuild who he was without the uniform, the call sign, or the structure that shaped him. Discipline and identity travel with you. The habits, awareness, and standards forged as a fighter pilot became the backbone of how he navigated entrepreneurship, pressure, and uncertainty. Awareness is a survival skill in life, not just in the air. Knowing what you know, what you don't, and what's happening around you guided him through Afghanistan, leadership, and personal upheaval. Rebuilding requires humility, service, and a clear sense of purpose. Boo's path back—through PTSD, loss, and faith—shows that the next mission is often internal, not external. 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 Peak Stress Curve 01:00 Fighter Pilot Call Sign Origins 06:44 Inside the Cockpit 12:24 Awareness and Senses 14:55 Queensland Roots 17:54 Obsessed With Aviation 26:36 Checklist Mastery Under Pressure 27:57 Programming the Brain Networks 30:36 Afghanistan by Choice 33:36 Fear on the Ground 35:48 PTSD and Life Unraveling 37:55 Discharge and New Direction 40:41 Why Afghanistan Made Sense 45:05 Faith Reframed and Joy