Episodes

  • #012 - Sick Days, Fear of The Lord, & Navigating Nashville with Producer Brooks

    #012 - Sick Days, Fear of The Lord, & Navigating Nashville with Producer Brooks
    May 6 2024
    Matt and Brooks navigate through a conversation that transitions from light-hearted dialogue about illness and the comedic mix-up of cold medicines to deeper discussions of personal growth, faith, and overcoming challenges. They reminisce about their first meetings, share stories of navigating life and relationships in Nashville, and delve into reflections prompted by scripture readings from Proverbs 19. Matt and Brooks candidly discuss their journeys of faith, dealing with addiction, and the importance of acknowledging one's imperfections while leaning on God's grace. The narrative weaves through personal anecdotes, the significance of community and accountability, and the power of transformation through faith, culminating in a call to deeper understanding and personal reflection. Follow Matt https://www.instagram.com/realmattcooper/ Timestamps (00:00) Welcome (01:42) Introducing Producer Brooks (06:28) The Journey to Joining the Podcast Team (16:13) Diving Deep into Proverbs 19 (23:35) Reflecting on Proverbs (25:23) Exploring the Fear of the Lord in Scripture (32:32) Understanding God's Judgment and Grace (41:28) The Transformative Power of Overcoming Addiction (46:41) Deep Dive into Personal Therapy (56:32) Advice for the Younger Self and Closing Thoughts #thebondfire #mattcooper Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr
  • #011 - AMA | Life Lessons, Podcasting, and 'Mama Mia'

    #011 - AMA | Life Lessons, Podcasting, and 'Mama Mia'
    Apr 29 2024
    In this episode of the Bonfire Podcast, Matt conducts an Ask Me Anything (AMA) session, sharing personal insights on finding joy and fulfillment in running the podcast over pursuing a career in music. He discusses the impact of faith, the journey of starting a music career, and the processes of songwriting and personal growth. Matt candidly addresses questions about dealing with major life changes, including moving to Nashville and grappling with grief after the loss of their mother, offering reflections based on their faith and experiences. The session concludes with musical performances, including covers and original songs, highlighting themes of love, faith, and personal resilience. Follow Matt https://www.instagram.com/realmattcooper/ Timestamps (00:00) Ask Me Anything (00:35) Question 1 (03:20) Question 2 (04:58) Question 3 (07:17) Question 4 (12:43) Question 5 (19:14) 'Mama Mia' by Matt Cooper (22:34) 'Red Flags' by Brooks Huntley (28:26) 'Red Letters' by Matt Cooper (33:34) 'Breakeven' by Matt Cooper and Brooks Huntley #thebondfire #mattcooper Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show More Show Less
    40 mins
  • #010 - Stephanie Quayle Talks Forgiveness, Toxic Relationships, and Getting Baptized

    #010 - Stephanie Quayle Talks Forgiveness, Toxic Relationships, and Getting Baptized
    Apr 22 2024
    In this episode of the Bonfire Podcast, Matt and country singer Stephanie Quayle discusses her multifaceted life as a singer, author, and Montana native. They explore Quayle's deep connection to nature and her upbringing in Montana, highlighting her experiences of balancing city and farm life, and the impact of her faith and upbringing on her life and career. Quayle openly shares the challenges she has faced, including toxic relationships and personal loss, and how these experiences led to her growth, her decision to get water baptized, and the healing process that followed. The conversation also delves into Quayle’s music career, her approach to boundaries in personal and professional relationships, and the importance of unconditional love, both in her marriage and in her relationship with God. Quayle emphasizes the transformative power of faith, forgiveness, and finding joy in surrendering to God's plan. The episode concludes with Quayle’s advice to her younger self and reflections on self-worth and the healing journey. Follow Stephanie https://www.instagram.com/stephaniequayle Follow Matt https://www.instagram.com/realmattcooper Timestamps (00:00) Stephanie Quayle (02:42) From City Mouse to Country Star: Stephanie's Journey (05:48) Faith, Forgiveness, and Finding Peace (22:37) The Healing Power of Music and Storytelling (31:35) Embracing the Cross: A Journey of Faith and Surrender (38:05) Learning to Be Present and the Journey of Podcasting (43:12) Identifying Red Flags and Trusting Intuition in Relationships (52:10) Setting Healthy Boundaries in Relationships and Self-Growth (57:21) Finding Unconditional Love and the Gospel's Message (01:02:18) Reflecting on Personal Stories and the Impact of Storytelling Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 11 mins
  • #009 - Madeline Merlo Talks Anxiety, New Music, and Jelly Roll

    #009 - Madeline Merlo Talks Anxiety, New Music, and Jelly Roll
    Apr 15 2024
    In this episode of The Bonfire Podcast, Matt interviews country artist Madeline Merlo about her journey in the music industry, the inspiration behind her song 'Makeup', and how her faith plays a vital role in her music and personal growth. Madeline shares candidly about her struggles with anxiety and depression, the importance of faith in her life, and how therapy and a relationship with God helped her overcome personal challenges. Additionally, Madeline reflects on her marriage, her experiences in Nashville, and her aspirations for her upcoming EP, emphasizing authenticity and vulnerability in her songwriting. This conversation also touches on the impact of comparing oneself to others, particularly in the context of the music industry, and the significance of understanding self-worth beyond career success. Madeline and the host engage in a heartfelt discussion about faith, healing, and the power of music to convey deep, personal messages. Follow Madeline https://www.instagram.com/madelinemerlo Follow Matt https://instagram.com/realmattcooper Timestamps (00:00) Madeline Merlo (02:46) Faith and Music: A Personal Journey (08:32) Exploring Life Beyond Music: Hiking Adventures and Personal Growth (14:53) Self-Worth Beyond Career Success: A Vital Lesson (18:06) Facing Life's Challenges with Faith (25:59) Dealing with Anxiety and Finding Peace (32:29) New Music #thebondfire #mattcooper #madelinemerlo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show More Show Less
    38 mins
  • #008 - The Bondfire Sessions | The Dragonfly Song, Good God, & John Mayer

    #008 - The Bondfire Sessions | The Dragonfly Song, Good God, & John Mayer
    Apr 8 2024
    In this episode of the Bonfire Podcast, the hosts enjoy a relaxed campfire session, sharing original songs and covering a track together. The episode features Matt Cooper alongside producer Brooks Huntley, who showcase their musical talents. Matt performs a new song influenced by relationship dynamics, while Brooks shares a piece inspired by personal struggles and his perspective on love. The hosts also discuss the stories behind their songs, emphasizing themes such as vulnerability, loss, and the complexities of life. The episode concludes with a spontaneous and playful cover of John Mayer's 'Slow Dancing in a Burning Room'. (00:00) Welcome (01:29) 'Red Flags' (06:38) 'The Dragonfly Song' (13:00) 'Flying' (18:39) 'Good God' (24:46) A Chaotic Cover of 'Slow Dancing In A Burning Room' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show More Show Less
    31 mins
  • #007 - Ex-Con Reveals How He Found Jesus in Prison with Jon.C

    #007 - Ex-Con Reveals How He Found Jesus in Prison with Jon.C
    Apr 1 2024
    This episode features a heartfelt and inspiring interview with Jon C. who shares his journey from incarceration to finding redemption and restoration through faith in Jesus Christ. Raised in Nashville with a diverse religious background, Jon narrates how he found Jesus shortly after moving away from home and the transformation that followed his 10-year prison sentence. He emphasizes the deception of the enemy in instilling doubts about experiencing excellence and legacy post-incarceration, advocating the power of testimonies, and the ability to change lives by pointing towards Jesus. The discussion deepens into Jon's personal story of growing up, the impact of incarceration, and the significant role of prison ministry in his transformation. He shares the profound lessons learned about humility, trust, and the daily walk with God, highlighting the importance of mentorship, community support, and continuous self-improvement through education and religious programs during and after incarceration. The interview concludes with an encouraging message about the unbreakable bond with God's love despite past mistakes and a spontaneous worship session, showcasing his musical talent. Follow Matt https://instagram.com/realmattcooper https://tiktok.com/@realmattcooper Timestamps (00:00) Jon C. (02:35) From Childhood to Salvation (07:39) A Story of Support and Success (16:25) Life Inside Prison Walls (27:21) Post-Prison Challenges (33:48) Learning and Growth Behind Bars (42:41) Trust, Integrity, and Community (46:57) A Final Message of Hope and Faith (49:36) Jon C. performs an original song #thebondfire #mattcooper Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show More Show Less
    58 mins
  • #006 - AMA | Grief, Goals, and Favorite Scriptures with My Dad

    #006 - AMA | Grief, Goals, and Favorite Scriptures with My Dad
    Mar 25 2024
    Facing Loss and Finding Faith: A Heartfelt Discussion on Grief and Growth In this touching episode of the Bonfire Podcast, host Matt Cooper and his father, Michael Cooper, engage in a profound and intimate discussion about their recent family loss, their faith, and how they have been coping with grief. They share the story of Pamela Cooper's passing and her profound impact on their lives, exploring the beauty and sorrow of her final moments and the assurance of her eternal peace. The episode reveals their personal struggles, the power of prayer, and scriptures that offer comfort during tough times. Additionally, they address questions from their audience on dealing with grief, finding purpose after loss, their favorite scriptures, and their current life goals. The episode concludes with Matt Cooper performing a heartfelt song in tribute to his mother. This podcast provides solace, insights into handling grief with faith, and the significance of cherishing every moment. (00:00) Welcome (01:19) Sharing Our Story: Remembering Mom and Her Journey (06:11) How Do You Deal With Grief? (27:26) What's Your Biggest Goal As Of Right Now? (31:12) What Is Your Favorite Scripture? (36:19) Matt Performs "I Hope You Dance/Iris" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show More Show Less
    43 mins
  • #005 - Emily Weisband Talks Writing Songs for Halsey, Miscarriages, and Authenticity

    #005 - Emily Weisband Talks Writing Songs for Halsey, Miscarriages, and Authenticity
    Mar 11 2024
    The Power of Song: A Deep Dive into Artistic Expression, Love, and Resilience This compelling episode features engaging discussions that span the emotional landscape of songwriting and personal experiences. Starting with an in-depth conversation with singer-songwriter Emily Weisband, the narrative explores her journey across various musical genres, collaborations with artists like Halsey, BTS, and Thomas Rhett, and her personal evolution marked by faith, resilience, and creativity. Emily opens up about the challenges she faced, including emotional struggles with miscarriages and the quest for authenticity in her music, highlighting the crucial balance between her personal life and artistic identity. Following this poignant narrative, the script transitions into an analysis of a song that epitomizes the unbreakable bond between two lovers, underscoring the depth of their shared lives, challenges, and the irrevocable nature of their connection. Both stories together offer a rich exploration of the intersections between art, life's tribulations, and the enduring human spirit. Follow Emily https://www.instagram.com/emilyweisband/ Follow Matt https://www.instagram.com/realmattcooper/ https://www.tiktok.com/@realmattcooper (00:00) Emily Weisband (04:36) Emily's Journey to Nashville (08:43) The Power of Songwriting (16:53) Personal Struggles and Faith (21:02) The Impact of Miscarriages (34:00) The Story Behind 'Thy Will' (38:35) Anger Towards God (49:34) The Impact of Music and Faith (56:59) The Spiritual Aspect of Life (01:02:56) The Struggle with Christian Culture (01:09:17) The Gift of Music (01:12:14) Emily Performs "Can't Break Up Now" #thebondfire Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 21 mins