The Honest Pursuit Podcast
"The Honest Pursuit Podcast" is a space where, two friends, engage in raw, unfiltered conversations about the ups and downs of life. Without pretense or polished facades, we discuss our personal experiences, challenges, and what faith looks like in the everyday grind. Through honest dialogue, we share how God has worked in our lives while keeping it real—no churchy titles, just real talk. Join us in the pursuit of truth, growth, and grace in a messy, imperfect world. Hosted by Jose Garcia and LJ Magee.
Episodes
23 episodes
Faith Under Fire: The Journey of Pastor Kevin Johnson
In this episode of The Honest Pursuit Podcast, we sit down with Pastor Kevin Johnson, a man whose journey has taken him from war zones and military service to ministry and pastoral leadership.Pastor Kevin shares how God faithful...
“Faith & Basketball” with Cedric McCormick
In this episode, we sit down with Cedric McCormick to talk about the intersection of faith and basketball. From his journey through the Marines to coaching and ministry, Ced shares how his relationship with God shapes the way he leads, competes...
People Watching with thomas iannucci
In this episode of The Honest Pursuit, we sit down with thomas iannucci for one of our most honest conversations yet. He opens up about his journey as a writer and music artist, sharing how creativity has become an outlet for truth, heal...
A Conversation with Pastor Tom Iannucci “A slice of New York”
In this episode, we sit down with Pastor Tom Iannucci for a real and honest conversation about his life journey. From the way he grew up to the different jobs that shaped him along the way, Pastor Tom shares stories that are both relatable and ...
Bad Bunny, or Bad Christian?
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...
What’s the Story You’re Telling Yourself?
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,” a...
Farewell to Saul: A friendship for a lifetime
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...
Looking Back, Moving Forward: One Year of Honest Pursuit
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, t...
Faith, Resilience, and Counseling: A Conversation with Brother Acha Goris
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 journe...
Worship Through the Wreckage: Eazar’s Story of Grief and Grace
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 ...
Between Mercy and Boundaries: Helping Someone in Spiritual Struggle
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 t...
Living Unashamed for Christ
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 battl...
Speak Life: The Power of Words in a Man’s World
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 w...
Through the Wilderness: Finding God in Life’s Hardest Seasons
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 p...
Spiritual Disciplines: Building Daily Habits for a Stronger Faith
In this episode of The Honest Pursuit, we dive into the essential spiritual disciplines that help strengthen your faith in everyday life. From prayer and Bible reading to fasting, worship, and rest, we explore how these practices aren’t just re...
Fatherhood Unfiltered: The Highs, Lows, and God’s Design
Fatherhood is one of the greatest responsibilities a man can take on—but it’s also one of the toughest. In this episode of The Honest Pursuit, Jose, LJ, and special guest Brock dive deep into the realities of being a father. They share...
Lessons Learned: Sobriety, Friendships, and the Power of Saying No
As the year comes to a close, we reflect on the lessons that shaped us in 2024. From the journey of sobriety and the value of true friendships to the life-changing impact of learning to say no, this episode dives into the challenges and growth ...
Threads of Faith: Building Dreams and Brotherhood
In this episode, we dive into DJ’s journey of starting his new clothing brand named MRVLUS Faith Apparel, exploring how creativity and faith intersect. We also get real about mentorship, friendship, and the challenges of fatherhood. Finally, we...
Faith in the Workplace: A conversation with Colonel Brett Allison
In this episode of The Honest Pursuit, we sit down with Marine Corps Colonel Brett Allison, Commanding Officer of Marine Aircraft Group 36, to discuss the powerful intersection of faith and leadership in the workplace. With over two decades of ...
Iron Sharpens Iron: Why Brotherhood Matters
In this episode of The Honest Pursuit, we’re exploring the deep bond of brotherhood and why it’s essential for men to have strong, supportive connections. We’ll discuss what true brotherhood looks like, share personal stories, and offer practic...
Faith Before Politics: A Conversation with Pastor Rick Barnett
In this episode, we’re honored to welcome Senior Pastor of Calvary Chapel Okinawa, Pastor Rick Barnett, for a powerful conversation on faith, politics, and where our true allegiance lies. With another election season approaching, the noise can ...
Breaking the Silence: Confronting Pornography and Its Impact
In this episode, we tackle a topic that many shy away from but affects countless people—pornography. We’ll dive into how it can trap you in secrecy, shame, and isolation, and the damage it can do to relationships, self-worth, and spiritual heal...
Unfiltered Beginnings: Our Story
In this debut episode of The Honest Pursuit, we dive into who we are, why we’re here, and what this podcast is all about. Join us as we share our personal stories—the highs, the lows, and everything in between—and set the stage for raw, unfilte...