Crushed by Depression, Called by God: How Faith and Purpose Saved Mason Smith

In this powerful and vulnerable episode of Domestic Dad: Cleaning Up The Mess, host Nick Barnett sits down with Mason Smith—a former youth pastor, missionary, husband, and father—for a deeply personal journey through depression, a suicide attempt, spiritual awakening, and calling.

Mason didn’t grow up in chaos. He had a loving family and a strong foundation. But his world was shattered by a series of tragic losses that opened the door to darkness, depression, and numbness. At just 17 years old, he sat on his bed with a loaded shotgun, ready to end his life—until God intervened in a miraculous way.

This episode explores that moment—and everything that followed. Mason shares the long road from surviving to living: walking away from the fence of apathy, wrestling with his faith, and slowly rebuilding his life one surrendered step at a time. From college disillusionment to his first mission trip that awakened a true love for God, Mason’s story is one of obedience, purpose, and the relentless pursuit of truth.

Nick and Mason dive into the messiness of ministry, the beauty of fatherhood, and the calling that eventually led Mason to become the Asia Director for a global missions organization. Along the way, we hear about his love story with his wife, raising two boys, and what it means to lead with humility, honesty, and faith.

For anyone who’s ever wondered if their past disqualifies them from their purpose—this conversation is proof that your darkest moments can become your greatest testimony. Mason’s story is a reminder that no matter how far you’ve fallen, God isn’t done with you yet.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Greetings

00:30 Childhood Memories

02:22 First Encounter with Loss

04:48 Struggles with Depression

06:19 Turning Point and Faith Journey

08:43 High School Challenges

18:59 College Life and Spiritual Awakening

23:53 Mission Work and Personal Growth

30:34 Finding Love and Building a Family

37:56 Ministry and Life Lessons

39:31 Supporting Each Other in Ministry

40:24 A Call to Missions

42:06 A Divine Encounter

44:53 Stepping Out in Faith

45:46 Finding the Right Fit

48:37 The Importance of Support

56:53 Fatherhood Reflections

01:06:18 Advice for Those in Despair

01:14:50 The Power of Community

01:15:27 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

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Website: www.domesticdadproject.com

YouTube: @DomesticDadProject

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DOMESTICDADPROJECT/

Instagram: @the_domestic_dad_project

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Support Mason’s Missions Work:

Visit www.storylinemissions.org, click on “Give,” and consider donating to Mason Smith or the Asia missions team. Every dollar makes a difference—and sometimes, $12 can change a life.

Mason Smith Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Mason-Smith-100075804065429/

From Combat to Calling: How Chris Jung Found Faith and Fatherhood

In this deeply moving episode of Domestic Dad: Cleaning Up The Mess, host Nick Barnett sits down with Chris Jung, a military veteran, husband, and father, for an emotional journey through war, trauma, healing, and redemption. Chris opens up about his deployment to Afghanistan, the loss of a friend in combat, and the invisible wounds of PTSD that followed him home.

From the adrenaline of firefights and close calls with death, to the heartbreak of watching a friend’s life taken in an instant, Chris shares the harrowing reality of military life with raw honesty. But the battles didn’t stop when he came home. Like so many veterans, Chris found himself trying to survive civilian life with trauma he didn’t know how to process—turning to alcohol to numb the pain, isolate, and escape.

What followed was a hard-fought climb toward healing. Chris talks about the darkness of suicidal thoughts, the moment he picked up the phone instead of the gun, and the powerful role his wife played in helping him face his demons. Their story of love, resilience, and faith is a testament to the strength of community and the power of accountability.

Nick and Chris dive deep into the challenges of marriage after trauma, the lessons learned through fatherhood, and what it means to break generational cycles. Chris also shares how he’s turning pain into purpose—leading his family with intention, serving on his local fire department, and giving back through his business, Stuff Etc. in Waterloo, which is donating 10% of Father’s Day sales to the Domestic Dad Project.

This episode is a must-listen for veterans, parents, and anyone navigating trauma, grief, or the long road to becoming the person they were meant to be. Chris’s story is a reminder that no matter how broken you feel, healing is possible—and you are never alone in the fight.

00:00 Introduction and Greetings

01:10 Childhood Memories and Challenges

04:49 Struggles with ADHD and School

13:21 Reconnecting with Estranged Father

21:10 Joining the Military

24:53 Deployment to Afghanistan

30:35 Patrolling the Sangar Valley

31:27 The Tragic Loss of Donny

33:25 Dealing with the Aftermath

36:28 A Lighter Mission

36:59 Unexpected Firefight

40:16 Battle of Dab

47:35 Returning Home and Coping

49:34 Struggles with Alcohol

52:37 Meeting My Wife

57:31 Adjusting to Family Life

01:00:16 Battling Depression and PTSD

01:03:39 Therapy and the Role of a Supportive Spouse

01:05:43 The Importance of Honesty in Marriage

01:11:29 Parenting Lessons and Disciplinary Approaches

01:16:58 The Role of Faith in Overcoming Fear

01:19:30 Memorable Moments and Lessons for Children

01:26:52 Advice for Veterans and Community Support

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Website: www.domesticdadproject.com

YouTube: @DomesticDadProject

Facebook: Domestic Dad Project

Instagram: @the_domestic_dad_project

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Connect with Chris: https://www.facebook.com/chris.jung.7712

In this gripping and emotional episode of Domestic Dad: Cleaning Up The Mess, host Nick Barnett sits down with Jason Hausman for a raw, unfiltered look at addiction, trauma, and the long road to redemption. Jason’s story is one of unimaginable darkness—from childhood abuse and early exposure to drugs, to meth addiction, manipulation, and a head-on collision that nearly took his life.

Jason opens up about being raised in a chaotic home filled with violence, addiction, and secrets. By the time he was a teenager, he was already using needles and selling drugs—desperately searching for love, connection, and a sense of control. His addiction spiraled into crime, self-destruction, and eventually, prison. But instead of being the end, prison became the beginning of his transformation.

Nick and Jason discuss the power of God’s grace, the weight of generational trauma, and the turning point when Jason surrendered his will and began rebuilding his life. From lying to survive, to finding truth through accountability and faith, Jason shares how small daily actions—and the right people—helped him find freedom and purpose.

With heartfelt honesty, Jason reflects on the impact his addiction had on his family, the guilt he carried, and how becoming a peer recovery coach has allowed him to turn his pain into purpose. His story is a powerful reminder that no one is beyond the reach of redemption, and that healing begins the moment we step into the light.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating addiction, recovery, or the quiet battle of believing they’re too far gone. Jason’s journey proves that grace is real, and that God still uses broken people to build beautiful things.

00:00 Introduction and Greetings

01:19 Childhood Memories and Family Struggles

06:42 School Life and Early Signs of Addiction

13:26 Manipulation and Early Drug Use

19:00 High School and Escalation of Substance Abuse

28:09 First Treatment and Continued Struggles

33:06 Reflections on Recovery and Sobriety

37:54 Struggles with Self-Worth and Recovery

38:26 The Reality of Life After Treatment

39:10 Working in Treatment and Overcoming Criminal History

40:39 The Impact of Addiction on Loved Ones

41:06 Faith and the 12-Step Program

42:00 The Power of a Higher Power

43:20 The Paradox of Recovery

44:13 The Most Messed Up Moments

47:24 The Turning Point: Prison and Recovery

49:30 Faith and Support in Prison

52:47 Life After Prison: Recovery Coaching

01:13:11 Advice for Those Struggling with Addiction

01:17:56 The Possibility of Recovery

#DomesticDad #AddictionRecovery #FromPrisonToPurpose #PeerSupport #MethRecovery #FaithOverFear #RedemptionStory #Fatherhood #ShameToGlory #HopeIsReal

Website: www.domesticdadproject.com

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@DomesticDadProject

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DOMESTICDADPROJECT

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In this heart-wrenching and hopeful episode of Domestic Dad: Cleaning Up the Mess, host Nick Barnett sits down with Esmir, a father whose life has been marked by both deep wounds and divine miracles.

Born in Bosnia and raised in the Midwest after fleeing war with his family, Esmir opens up about the challenges of growing up as an immigrant—navigating a new culture, emotional isolation, and generational trauma. But it wasn’t until his youngest son, Jack, was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive brain tumor that Esmir’s life truly cracked open.

What followed was a battle no parent is prepared for. In this raw conversation, Esmir shares how he confronted his own past, leaned into therapy, and began a spiritual journey that helped him support his son through countless rounds of chemo, a high-risk brain surgery, and ultimately, a miracle remission. Along the way, the Cedar Valley community showed up in force—proving that no one fights alone.

This episode is a powerful testament to resilience, redemption, and the love of a father willing to do anything for his family. If you’ve ever wondered where strength comes from in life’s darkest moments, Esmir’s story will show you.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction and Greetings

00:27 – Childhood Memories and Upbringing

03:35 – Struggles and Spiritual Journey

06:55 – Father-Son Relationship and Therapy

12:28 – Marriage and Early Fatherhood

26:13 – Jack’s Diagnosis and Hospital Journey

41:17 – Cherishing Tatum’s Memory

42:40 – The Strength of a Young Angel

44:09 – Community Support and Financial Relief

45:27 – Faith and Personal Growth

46:27 – Jackie’s Battle with Cancer

47:28 – The High-Intensity Chemo Journey

50:10 – The Emotional Toll and Family Dynamics

53:36 – The Miracle of Remission

01:06:04 – Reflections on Parenting and Faith

01:13:24 – Gratitude and Future Outlook

#JackieStrong #FaithOverFear #ChildhoodCancerAwareness #DadLifeUnfiltered #PersonalGrowthJourney #MiracleStory #HealingThroughFaith #BosnianAmericanJourney #StrongFathersStrongFamilies #DomesticDadPodcast

Website: www.domesticdadproject.com

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@DomesticDadProject

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DOMESTICDADPROJECT

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/the_domestic_dad_project

Would You Get Healthy for Your Kids?

That’s the question we’re diving into on this powerful episode of Domestic Dad: Cleaning Up The Mess—and it’s one every father needs to hear.

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Nick Kuhle, a former high school teacher who faced a health crisis in his mid-20s that became the turning point of his life. Struggling with low testosterone, chronic inflammation, fatigue, and emotional burnout, Nick was told by doctors that hormone replacement therapy was his only option. But instead of settling for a quick fix, he chose the path of holistic healing.

Through functional medicine, nutritional therapy, and mindset coaching, Nick not only restored his health—he found his purpose: helping other men break free from the cycles of addiction, poor health, shame, and emotional suppression. He’s now a full-time health coach, helping fathers get their energy back, reclaim their identity, and build the kind of legacy their children will be proud of.

We cover a ton of ground in this episode:

•What happens when men in recovery trade alcohol for sugar or other compulsions

•How trauma and shame manifest in your health, energy, and parenting

•The emotional root of food cravings and how to address the why behind them

•Why most men are dehydrated, inflamed, under-slept, and overstressed—and how to fix it

•The truth about processed foods, pasta, and why “healthy” doesn’t always mean real

•How your language and internal dialogue shape your identity and behavior

• Why sleep, water, movement, and real food are still the best medicine

•The power of becoming your own best doctor

•And how shifting from “I struggle with” to “I experience” changes everything

But this episode goes beyond fitness and food.

It’s about fatherhood, faith, and facing your mess—head-on.

You’ll hear Nick’s take on why men must take responsibility for their physical and emotional health—not just for themselves, but for the next generation. We also talk about addiction recovery, marriage, mindset, and how our darkest moments can become defining ones if we let them.

You’ll also hear a deeply personal story from me—about my own battle with addiction, a near-suicidal moment that changed my life, and how my journey through sobriety, faith, and fatherhood led me to where I am today. And yes—how God answered our prayers after years of infertility, in a way only He could.

If you’re a man who wants to live with more energy, more intention, and more purpose—this episode is for you.

If you’re a dad who wants to stop surviving and start showing up—this episode is for you.

If you’ve ever wondered what it really means to live for your kids—this episode is for you.

Nick Kuhle's Website: www.kuhlefit.com

Nick Kuhle: https://www.facebook.com/KuhleFit/

Website: www.domesticdadproject.com

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@DomesticDadProject

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DOMESTICDADPROJECT

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/the_domestic_dad_project

From Outlaw to Redemption: Ron Gruber’s Journey of Faith, Forgiveness, and Freedom

In this gripping and unfiltered episode of Domestic Dad: Cleaning Up The Mess, host Nick Barnett sits down with Ron Gruber, a man whose story is nothing short of miraculous. From an abusive childhood and the violent world of outlaw motorcycle gangs to decades spent in prison, Ron’s past is a haunting testament to the darkness that can consume a life. But his journey doesn’t end there—through a divine encounter in the woods, Ron found himself at the feet of God, discovering a path to forgiveness, faith, and a life transformed.

For years, Ron was trapped in a cycle of rage, revenge, and regret, serving time for murder and racketeering in some of the toughest prisons in America. It was there, in a solitary cell, that he began to understand the true cost of his choices and the possibility of redemption through Christ. Today, Ron is a man on a mission—sharing his story of radical change to show that no one is too far gone for God’s grace.

This episode delves into powerful themes of forgiveness, surrender, and the battle to overcome shame. Nick and Ron discuss the struggle to reconcile with a violent past, the challenge of self-forgiveness, and the relentless love of God that reaches even into the darkest places. If you’ve ever wondered if God can truly rewrite your story, Ron’s testimony is living proof that He can.

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Key Topics & Timeline:

00:00 — Introduction and Greetings

01:22 — Ron Gruber’s Childhood: Abuse, Trauma, and Survival

05:23 — Life with a Motorcycle Gang: Brotherhood or Bondage?

07:26 — First Imprisonment and Gang Life: The Brutal Reality

16:00 — Turning Point and Finding Faith: A Night in the Woods

23:32 — Struggles and Redemption: The Battle for the Soul

33:42 — Obedience and Faith in Adversity: Staying True to God

35:34 — Reconnecting with Family: Healing Broken Relationships

37:00 — Impact of Testimonies: Changing Lives with the Word

38:01 — Struggles with Sin and Redemption: Fighting the Old Self

40:32 — Living in the Word: The Daily Fight for Faith

41:38 — Cleaning Up Life’s Messes: Owning Your Story

47:45 — Advice for the Broken: Hope for Those on the Edge

54:09 — Staying Connected to the Spirit: The Power of Prayer

58:05 — Final Reflections and Encouragement: The Road Ahead

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Why You Should Listen to This Episode:

✔️ Unfiltered honesty about violence, guilt, and the power of redemption.

✔️ A firsthand testimony of God’s ability to transform even the darkest lives.

✔️ Practical advice for those battling shame, regret, and feelings of unworthiness.

✔️ A reminder that no past is too dark for God’s light to break through.

✔️ Inspiring insights on the power of forgiveness, both receiving and giving.

If you’re struggling to believe that God has a plan for you, or if you’re fighting to forgive yourself for what’s been done or what you’ve done—this episode is for you. Ron’s story proves that even in the darkest nights, God’s grace shines brightest.

🎧 Listen now and let this story remind you that your past doesn’t have to define your future—God does.

#DomesticDad #FaithAndRedemption #OvercomingShame #Testimony #SecondChances #TransformationStory #Forgiveness #BreakingTheCycle

Website: www.domesticdadproject.com

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@DomesticDadProject

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DOMESTICDADPROJECT

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/the_domestic_dad_project

From the Fire to Freedom: Joe Bondy’s Journey of Redemption, Faith, and Fatherhood

In this raw and deeply moving episode of Domestic Dad: Cleaning Up The Mess, host Nick Barnett sits down with Joe Bondy, a man who has lived through the depths of addiction, violence, and self-destruction—only to emerge stronger through the grace of God. Joe’s story is one of unimaginable hardship, but also powerful transformation, healing, and redemption.

For over 30 years, Joe was caught in the cycle of addiction, incarceration, and broken relationships. He grew up in a world where violence and substance abuse were the norm, leading him down a dark path that nearly cost him everything—his family, his freedom, and even his life. But in his lowest moments, God reached out, and Joe’s journey took a turn toward hope, faith, and renewal. Now, he’s a leader in his community, mentoring men who are fighting their own battles with addiction and rebuilding their lives.

This episode explores powerful themes of fatherhood, faith, accountability, and breaking generational cycles. Nick and Joe discuss the struggles of addiction recovery, the deep wounds of childhood trauma, the reality of relapse, and the incredible healing that comes when you surrender to God’s plan. If you’ve ever questioned whether change is possible, Joe’s story is living proof that no one is beyond redemption.

Key Topics & Timeline:

00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Joe Bondy

00:30 Joe's Childhood: Love and Torment

02:19 Early Encounters with Racism

05:19 Struggles with Abuse and Early Drug Use

12:14 School Challenges and Dropping Out

16:03 Moving to Iowa and Escaping Gang Life

19:04 Finding Faith and Overcoming Addiction

22:59 Embracing a New Life in Christ

38:21 The Journey to Transformation

39:00 Struggles and Regrets

40:07 A Father's Guilt and Redemption

40:59 The Impact on Family

43:27 Seeking Forgiveness and Change

46:38 The Power of Faith and Community

49:30 Leading by Example

53:20 The Rise Up Program

01:03:28 A New Beginning

01:13:27 Pain Management and Medical Marijuana

01:14:40 Struggles with Addiction and Faith

01:16:02 Recovery and Relapse

01:21:13 Family and Personal Transformation

01:28:03 Community and Support Systems

01:48:28 Final Reflections and Advice

Why You Should Listen to This Episode:

✔️ Raw, unfiltered honesty about addiction, fatherhood, and faith.

✔️ A firsthand testimony of God’s power to redeem even the most broken lives.

✔️ Real-life strategies for men struggling with addiction and seeking transformation.

✔️ Encouragement and hope for those who feel like they’ve gone too far to be saved.

✔️ Insights on faith-based recovery, breaking generational cycles, and leading by example.

If you’re struggling with addiction, guilt, or wondering if change is really possible, this episode is a must-listen. Joe Bondy’s story proves that no matter how far you’ve fallen, God’s grace can pull you back up.

🎧 Listen now and let this conversation be a reminder that your past doesn’t define you—your next choice does.

#DomesticDad #FaithAndRedemption #BreakingTheCycle #OvercomingAddiction #Fatherhood #RecoveryJourney #Testimony #SecondChances #TransformationStory

Website: www.domesticdadproject.com

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@DomesticDadProject

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DOMESTICDADPROJECT

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/the_domestic_dad_project

In this powerful episode of Domestic Dad: Cleaning Up The Mess, host Nick Barnett sits down with Pastor Chip Uhrmacher from Prairie Lakes Church in Cedar Falls Iowa for an eye-opening conversation about marriage, faith, and overcoming life’s greatest challenges.

Pastor Chip shares deeply personal moments—from his own spiritual transformation to the devastating loss of his sister to violence—illustrating the profound impact of faith and resilience. They explore the four postures of marriage, the struggles that addiction and emotional wounds bring into relationships, and the transformative power of forgiveness.

Nick and Pastor Chip dive into real, raw conversations about:

✅ How past wounds shape our marriages and how to heal from them

✅ The four postures of marriage—where are you and how do you shift?

✅ The impact of addiction on relationships and how to rebuild trust

✅ Overcoming resentment and learning to communicate with love

✅ Why praying for your spouse is one of the most powerful things you can do

✅ How faith can restore broken relationships and bring families closer

If you’ve ever struggled with distance in your marriage, felt lost in your faith, or wondered how to repair broken trust, this episode will give you the tools and real-life wisdom to make a change.

🔹 Episode Highlights:

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🌍 Website: www.domesticdadproject.com

📺 YouTube: www.youtube.com/@DomesticDadProject

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