Looking at this old photo of my Grandpa Bob and me, I don't remember anything about the day it was taken. But what I do remember is the man beside me and the countless lessons I learned from him.

When I got a little older, Grandpa Bob would pick me up from work every Tuesday and we'd head to lunch. It was always either Italian or Chinese. Without fail, he'd spill something on his tie, use language that would make General George Patton blush and leave a tip far more than the bill required.

I treasured those Tuesday lunches. I loved his booming laugh, his unwavering faith, and his life stories that seemed to offer exactly the wisdom I needed for whatever season I was walking through.

There was one more thing that always happened. Let me explain.

Paul Anleitner is a cultural theologian, author of Based on a True Story, and President & CEO of Goodmakers, where he helps people understand how culture and the stories we believe shape our search for meaning. Drawing from theology, philosophy, and science, Paul has become a leading voice on navigating today's cultural shifts with hope, wisdom, and purpose.

Today, Paul shares how the stories we embrace influence the way we see ourselves and the world around us, why our culture is moving beyond cynicism and endless deconstruction, and what it looks like to rebuild lives rooted in meaning, truth, and authentic community. Along the way, he explains why so many people feel spiritually and emotionally adrift, how to recognize the stories stealing our hope, and where we can begin finding better ones.

My friends, if you've ever wondered why so many people feel disconnected or found yourself longing for more purpose, hope, and belonging, this conversation is for you. You'll leave reminded that the foundation is firm, the headwinds may be real, but the best is yet to come.

They'll never make the news.

The most joyful, most faithful, most humble people rarely do.

Instead, the headlines seem to celebrate the loudest voices, the biggest scandals, and the worst of humanity. Last week, though, in a surprising location, I witnessed the kind of story that should make the news. Let me explain.

Brad Ryan is a wildlife veterinarian, conservationist, and bestselling author whose remarkable journey with his grandmother inspired millions. After battling depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts during veterinary school, Brad made one courageous decision: taking his 85-year-old grandmother camping so she could see her first mountain. That trip grew into an eight-year adventure to all 63 U.S. National Parks... and transformed both of their lives.

Today, Brad shares how nature became a place of healing, the surprising lessons he learned from Grandma Joy, and why courage often begins with a simple "yes." Together, we discuss mental health, forgiveness, family, purpose, and the extraordinary impact of choosing connection over isolation.

My friends, if you've ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or wondered whether your life can change, this conversation is for you. You'll leave inspired to say yes to adventure, invest in the people you love, and trust that even the smallest act of courage can change a life.

Last week, I attended funerals for two men. Two young wives grieving. Two families shattered by losses neither imagined possible.

And amid profound sadness, I witnessed two simple acts of love that reminded me what people need most when life falls apart. Let me explain.

Karen Olson is the founder and CEO emeritus of Family Promise, the national nonprofit that has helped more than one million people experiencing homelessness through the support of volunteers across the country. While working as a successful marketing executive in New York City, Karen's life took an unexpected turn when she stopped to share a sandwich with a woman named Millie. That simple act of kindness ultimately inspired Family Promise, a movement that has transformed countless lives.

Today, Karen shares the childhood loss that shaped her heart for people who are hurting, the encounter with Millie that inspired Family Promise, and what she's learned after decades of serving families experiencing homelessness. We talk about why real change starts with seeing the person in front of you, how small acts of compassion can create a ripple effect, and how purpose often finds us when we least expect it. Karen also reflects on the accident that left her in a wheelchair and the perspective she's gained through it.

My friends, if you've been wondering how to make a difference in a world that often feels overwhelming, this conversation is for you. Karen's story is a beautiful reminder that changing someone's life doesn't always begin with a grand plan… sometimes it starts with simply crossing the street.

For the past several summers, each of my four kids has been able to pick one work trip they want to join me on. They look through my speaking schedule, choose the destination, and other than the hour I'm on stage, they decide what we do together.

They call it "The Daddy Trip."

They think it's for them.

Truthfully, it's for me.

It's my excuse to spend focused, one-on-one time with each child before another year slips by.

A couple summers ago, Grace picked a speaking event near Laguna Beach, California. Let me tell you about our trip.

Thais Gibson is a counselor, relationship expert, and founder of The Personal Development School. And yet, before helping others transform their lives, she was a teenager struggling with addiction, anxiety, and the lingering effects of a difficult childhood. Her own healing journey led her to study why we think, feel, and react the way we do, and today she helps people build healthier relationships with themselves and others.

Today, Thais shares how our subconscious mind influences so much of our daily lives, why emotional safety matters more than most of us realize, and what it takes to break free from old patterns. We talk about her battle with addiction, the loneliness so many people are experiencing today, and the simple practices that can help us become more connected, compassionate, and present.

My friends, if you've ever wondered why you keep repeating the same habits, struggling with the same fears, or feeling disconnected from the people you love, this conversation is for you. You'll walk away with practical tools, fresh perspective, and the reminder that no matter where you've been, it's never too late to create a different future.