The Way is Wild

40 Episodes
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By: Blake and Joy Ligon

The Way is Wild exists to inspire and equip each other to follow the wild way of Jesus!

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Strengthening Your Relationships at Home with Sally Livingston
#107
Today at 5:00 AM

In this episode, we sit down with Sally Livingston, a therapist and trusted voice on family relationships. Sally is a sought after speaker, author, and an overall joy to spend time with. Sally joins us for an honest and practical conversation about parenting, marriage, and the emotional health of our homes. Sally shares wisdom on raising children with intention, creating a strong marriage in the midst of parenting, communicating well, and building a family culture where everyone can grow and flourish.

Whether you're raising little kids, navigating the teenage years, or simply wanting to strengthen your marriage...


Get Wild with the Summer Challenge
#106
05/12/2026

In this episode, we hit pause to reflect on the latest season. We celebrate episodes, guests, and some of our favorite moments. 

Then, we turn the page and step into summer with focus!

We officially launch the Be Wild Summer Challenge—a call to get outside, push your limits, and live fully awake in the months ahead. This isn’t just about adventure for adventure’s sake—it’s about becoming the kind of person who chooses courage over comfort, presence over distraction, and growth over ease.

Whether it’s exploring new places, b...


Broken Stories Make Beautiful Testimonies and Resilient Ministries with Tara Ledford
#105
05/05/2026

How does God redeem a difficult past and transform it into a story of hope, healing, and purpose?

In this episode, we sit down with Tara Ledford, a former college student in our ministry, whose journey is a powerful testimony of God's faithfulness. Growing up in a challenging family environment, Tara faced obstacles that could have easily defined her story. Instead, God met her in the midst of pain, brought healing to broken places, and began writing a new story marked by grace and redemption.

Today, Tara is using her life and experiences to serve...


Everything Rises and Falls on Leadership with Brad Lomenick
#104
04/28/2026

In this episode, we sit down with Brad Lomenick—leadership expert, author, speaker, and former president of Catalyst—for a rich conversation on what it means to lead well in today’s world. Brad shares hard-won wisdom on building integrity, stewarding influence, developing the next generation, and staying grounded in your values when the pressure is on. Join us as we explore practical leadership principles, personal growth, and the habits that help great leaders thrive for the long haul.

Whether you’re leading a business, a team, a family, or simply yourself, this conversation will challenge and encourag...


From Almost Aborted to Advocate with Joseph Bonilla
#103
04/21/2026

In this episode, we sit down with Joseph Bonilla as he shares his powerful story and the mission behind his work with Love Life Chicago. Joseph opens up about how he himself could have been aborted, but his mother chose life—and how that decision now fuels his passion to stand for the unborn and support families in crisis. This conversation is both sobering and hope-filled, offering a compelling look at redemption, advocacy, and the impact of choosing life.

Thanks again for listening!

Journey with us by checking out our website at thewayiswild.com and si...


From Prison to Purpose with Chris Wollos
#102
04/14/2026

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Chris Wollos as she shares her raw and redemptive story of going to prison—and how God met her there in a life-changing way. Now on the other side, Chris is bringing hope behind bars, reaching women in prison with the love and truth of Jesus. Her story is one of grace, transformation, and purpose, reminding us that no one is beyond redemption and that God will use your worst seasons for His highest purposes! 

Thanks again for listening!

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Launching Kids with the End in Mind with Brian and Jennifer Mills
#101
04/07/2026

In this episode, we sit down with Brian and Jennifer Mills to talk about the bittersweet and beautiful season of launching adult children and watching them step into marriage. With honesty, wisdom and a few tears, they share what it looks like to loosen your grip, trust God with your kids, and shift from hands-on parenting to intentional encouragement. This conversation is full of practical insight and hope for parents navigating the transition from raising children to releasing them into adulthood.

Thanks again for listening!

Journey with us by checking out our website at thewayiswild...


The Family Discipleship Ninja: A Conversation with Ted Cunningham
#100
03/31/2026

In this episode, we sit down with Ted Cunningham to talk about the heart of family discipleship—what it looks like to intentionally lead your home with purpose, grace, and consistency. Ted shares practical wisdom, biblical insight, and real-life rhythms that help parents move beyond good intentions into meaningful spiritual leadership. Whether you’re in the thick of raising young kids or navigating the teenage years, this conversation will equip and challenge you to disciple your family with clarity and confidence.

Thanks again for listening!

Journey with us by checking out our website at thewayiswild.com...


In Sickness and in Health with Fred Argo
#99
03/24/2026

Episode 99 drops Tuesday, March 24th ❤️🎙️

In this episode, we sit down with our dear friend Fred Argo - a man full of wisdom, encouragement, Scripture, and joy.

We talk about Mrs. Beth’s diagnosis, what it truly looks like to serve your spouse in marriage, and what the Lord has been teaching through seasons of deep trial. While Mrs. Beth has since gone home to be with Jesus, we rejoice knowing she is now free from pain and suffering.

This conversation is both tender and powerful. You’ll walk away challenged to know Scripture mor...


What Grief Taught Me About God with Influencer Kirby Kelly
#98
03/17/2026

In this episode, we sit down with social media influencer and YouTuber Kirby Kelly. Kirby shares her story of finding Jesus and then losing both her father and later her mother. She tells us what it has looked like to grieve deeply while still choosing to live a resilient, faith-filled life for Jesus. We talk about suffering, hope, identity, and how God meets us in the middle of heartbreak — not after it. This one is honest, real, and full of grit. 

Thanks again for listening!

Journey with us by checking out our website at thewayiswild.com...


Jesus Changes Everything with Adam and Alyssa Lea
#97
03/10/2026

In this episode, we sit down with Adam and Alyssa Lea. In our conversation with them they share with us about the wild and tragic roads that led to each other. They also share with us about the day they both got saved and how that has brought generational change into their family. Their stories highlight the beauty and persistence of Jesus. The Leas will inspire you to see that no one is too far gone! 

Thanks again for listening!

Journey with us by checking out our website at thewayiswild.com and signing up for o...


Thriving in Life and Leadership with Lisa Whittle
#96
03/03/2026

In this episode, we sit down with Lisa Whittle — author, Bible teacher, and a voice that has helped so many people move from performance-driven faith into something deeper and more honest. In our conversation, we talk about what it really means to know God beyond the noise, how insecurity and comparison can quietly shape our calling, and why simple obedience often matters more than anything flashy or seen. Lisa is both transparent and brilliant. This episode will hit everyone, no matter your season of life.

Thanks again for listening!

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Til Death Do Us Part with Steve Emerson
#95
02/24/2026

In this deeply moving episode, Steve Emerson shares the life and legacy of his beloved wife, Melinda — a woman whose unwavering faith transformed pain into worship and loss into testimony. Through tears, laughter, and honest reflection, Steve recounts how Melinda faced suffering with courage, peace, and radiant hope, choosing to glorify Christ even as her earthly strength faded. Her life reminds us that faith is not proven in comfort, but in surrender — that the gospel shines brightest in the valley.

This conversation is not only a tribute to a remarkable woman, but a powerful witness to the near...


Go Adventure in Wild Places: A Conversation with Steve Dubbledam (Founder of Wilderness Collective)
#94
02/17/2026

In this episode, we sit down with Steve Dubbledam — founder of Wilderness Collective. Steve is a devoted follower of Jesus, father, and lifelong outdoor enthusiast. In this conversation, he lays out the powerful connection between faith, formation, and the wild places that shape us.

Steve shares how time in the wilderness has become a sacred classroom for building resilient faith, strong families, and grounded leadership. He unpacks how creation invites us to slow down, listen deeply, and recover what it means to be fully alive in Christ.

We talk about raising kids with courage and cu...


God is Still Good Even After Losing Our Daughter with Nathan and Cassie Liouh
#93
02/10/2026

In this hard and honest conversation, our friend and editor Nathan and Cassie share with us the story of losing their infant daughter and the deep grief that followed. With humility and courage, they reflect on how their grief was met in the darkest valley — with community, compassion, and the steady presence of a faithful Father. This episode isn’t about easy answers, but about finding hope, trust, and God’s nearness in the midst of unimaginable loss.  

Thanks again for listening!

Journey with us by checking out our website at thewayiswild.com and signing up for...


Being a Faithful Christian While Being Christian Famous with Joe Navarro aka Joe Christian Guy
#92
02/03/2026

In this episode we sit down with Christian influencer Joe Navarro aka Joe Christian Guy. Joe invites us into honest conversations about how he became Christian famous and how that has shaped his identity, leadership, and living out the gospel in everyday life. We talk about culture, the next generation, and calling. Joe brings authenticity, wisdom, and encouragement to believers navigating the complex  world of social media, influence, and Gospel-living. We also have some great laughs! 

Thanks again for listening!

Journey with us by checking out our website at thewayiswild.com and signing up...


Launching High School Students, Social Media, and Family Discipleship with Brian and Emilie McCormack
#91
01/27/2026

In this episode we sit down with our new friends Brian and Emilie McCormack. Brian and Emilie oversee Breakaway Ministries in College Station, Texas at Texas A&M University. Breakaway is one of the largest college ministries in the world and equips thousands of college students each year to be life-long disciples. In our conversation, they share with us insights about Generation Z and Alpha. They also give us great insights on launching students to college, social media usage now, and family discipleship. The McCormacks are rock stars and you will love our conversation with them. 

Thanks a...


Fighting the Winter Blues and Talking Goats with James Barham
#90
01/20/2026

 In this conversation, we talk with our legendary friend James Barham, a licensed therapist, to talk about the “winter blues”. James shares with us what’s really happening in our minds and bodies, and shares with us practical ways to stay mentally healthy during the colder months. You’ll learn how to recognize warning signs, build healthy routines, and find hope even when the days feel long and heavy. We also laugh harder than we have on any episode! Enjoy our conversation with James Barham. 

Thanks again for listening!

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The Art of Celebration with Blake and Joy
#89
12/09/2025

In this episode, we dive into something many of us overlook: God actually commands celebration—and not just occasionally. From ancient feasts to modern moments of remembrance, Scripture is filled with rhythms designed to pull us into joy, gratitude, and spiritual renewal. We explore why celebration is central to God’s story. We also unpack practical ways to build biblical celebration into family, church, and everyday life. You’ll come away challenged, encouraged, and maybe a little convicted—realizing celebration isn’t optional in the life of a follower of Jesus… it’s part of our obedience and our format...


Exploring the Revival Among Gen. Alpha with Gavin Cupp
#88
12/02/2025

In this episode, we sit down with our good friend Gavin Cupp. Gavin is a local high-school student who is on the front lines of what God is doing among Gen. Alpha. We talk about the revival taking place among his peers, what adults can do to help facilitate this movement, and Gavin shares some incredible insights on family discipleship. This is a fascinating and encouraging episode! Enjoy.

Thanks again for listening!

Journey with us by checking out our website at thewayiswild.com and signing up for our monthly INSPIRELETTER! You can also follow us o...


From Childhood Brokenness to Life's Mission with Sylvia Harrison
#87
11/25/2025

In this episode, we sit down with Sylvia Harrison. Sylvia shares with us the hardships she faced as a child from abandonment to foster care and ultimately separation from her sister. Instead of being angry with God, Sylvia shares with us how all of the trials she walked through as a child gave her a vision for her's life's work. Her story is powerful and gives all of us hope in the sovereignty and purposes of God.

Thanks again for listening!

Journey with us by checking out our website at thewayiswild.com and signing up...


Living Lives of Kingdom Legacy with Bill and Jeana Lewis
#86
11/18/2025

In this episode, we sit down with the amazing Lewis duo - Bill and Jeana. They share with us their incredible story of how the Lord has been ever faithful in the midst of many challenges and trials. They share with us Kingdom treasures on how to walk with Jesus through all of life's ups and downs. They are also just the sweetest couple. They will inspire you finish well! 

Thanks again for listening!

Journey with us by checking out our website at thewayiswild.com and signing up for our monthly INSPIRELETTER! You can also fo...


Building a Beautiful Marriage - Jacob & Janae Mclauchlin
#85
11/11/2025

In this episode, we sit down with our great friends Jacob & Janae Mclauchlin! They are a blast and involved in some amazing Kingdom building endeavors. We talk about raising Godly kids, leading multiple businesses, and their marriage ministry Matrimony Everyday! They share with us amazing insights on how to build a beautiful and resilient marriage. Enjoy these amazing people friends! 

Thanks again for listening!

Journey with us by checking out our website at thewayiswild.com and signing up for our monthly INSPIRELETTER! You can also follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to da...


A Story of Addiction Recovery and then Addiction Ministry with Jennifer Tarwater
#84
11/04/2025

In this episode, we sit down with our friend Jennifer Tarwater. Jennifer shares with us her incredible journey from being an addict to how Jesus transformed her life. She then shares about the calling God placed on her to start In His Wings - a recovery ministry for women in addiction. Jennifer's story is incredible and what she is doing now will encourage you that no one is too far gone. 

Thanks again for listening!

Journey with us by checking out our website at thewayiswild.com and signing up for our monthly INSPIRELETTER! You can al...


The Compounding Benefits of Biblical Wellness with Beth Ann Davenport
#83
10/28/2025

In this episode, we sit down with our good friend Beth Ann Davenport. In our conversation we talk about the joys and benefits of taking care of yourself and why God actually cares about our health. This conversation will inspire and encourage you to think differently about your health with some proven helps to dramatically improve your well-being. 

Thanks again for listening!

Journey with us by checking out our website at thewayiswild.com and signing up for our monthly INSPIRELETTER! You can also follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date on al...


Two Brothers on Different Roads to Jesus with Rex and Wes Jernigan
#82
10/21/2025

In this episode, we sit down with two brothers Rex and Wes Jernigan. They are the sons of Brandon and Mandi Jernigan who shared with us a few seasons ago the hardships of raising three boys who in different ways ran from Jesus. Rex and Wes give us their amazing but different stories of coming back to Jesus! 

Thanks again for listening!

Journey with us by checking out our website at thewayiswild.com and signing up for our monthly INSPIRELETTER! You can also follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date on al...


The Amazing Power of Joy with Nicole Zasowski
#81
10/14/2025

In this episode, we sit down with Nicole Zasowski. Nicole is an author, speaker, and counselor. In our conversation, Nicole shares with us the spiritual and scientific benefits of joy and thanksgiving. She defines the difference between thanksgiving and gratitude. She also shares with us incredible insights for how this can be applied to our life and relationships. 

Thanks again for listening!

Journey with us by checking out our website at thewayiswild.com and signing up for our monthly INSPIRELETTER! You can also follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date on al...


The Transformation of an Angry Atheist to a Joyful Disciple with Joe Sullins
#80
10/07/2025

In this episode, we sit down with our good friend Joe Sullins. Joe is the owner of Red Beard Fencing. Joe shares with us about his 10 year stretch with atheism and the intense anger he had toward God. He also shares with us about the intimate details the Lord used to bring him back to Himself. Joe's story is truly amazing! 

Thanks again for listening!

Journey with us by checking out our website at thewayiswild.com and signing up for our monthly INSPIRELETTER! You can also follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to...


You Don't Have to Wait to Change the World with Author and Pastor Josh Branham
#79
09/30/2025

In this episode, we sit down with Josh Branham. Josh is the Lead Pastor of Hill City Church and the author of 'What Are You Waiting For?' Josh shares with us his journey to become a pastor and how he was placed in leadership positions early in his life. He shares with us much about his book and the message behind. He shares with us how he believes that you don't have to wait to change the world. Josh's story and work will encourage you to rise to your God-given calling and shepherd young leaders around you.  


From Tragedy to Triumph with Kristi Kirk
#78
09/23/2025

In this episode, we sit down with Kristi Kirk. Kristi shares the raw and tragic story of the death of her husband and then the death of her son. She shares with us how Jesus has both healed her and created in her a beautiful resilience. This conversation will inspire you to walk through tragedy to get to triumph with Jesus on the other side. 

Thanks again for listening!

Journey with us by checking out our website at thewayiswild.com and signing up for our monthly INSPIRELETTER! You can also follow us on Instagram and Fa...


You're Never Too Far Gone with Alan & Hunter Orcutt
#77
09/16/2025

In this episode, we sit down with Alan & Hunter Orcutt. They share with us about Alan's journey from pastoring to alcoholism. They are brutally honest and transparent about the ups and downs of marriage, children, and alcohol abuse. They also share with us how Jesus rescued their marriage and family.  

Thanks again for listening!

Journey with us by checking out our website at thewayiswild.com and signing up for our monthly INSPIRELETTER! You can also follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date on all things The Way is Wild.


Building the Kingdom is Risky with Jacob and Hannah Simmons
#76
09/09/2025

In this episode, we sit down with our dear friends and church planters Jacob and Hannah Simmons. They share about their story with us about how they went from serving the local church to feeling called to leave everything they know to plant a new campus in Columbia Missouri at the University of Missouri. You will be inspired by their story!  

Thanks again for listening!

Journey with us by checking out our website at thewayiswild.com and signing up for our monthly INSPIRELETTER! You can also follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to...


Digital Discipleship with Gina Scheer
#75
09/02/2025

In this episode, we sit down with Gina Scheer. She is the founder of Social Rejects that focuses on helping families navigate technology with clarity, confidence, and community. Gina is a leading expert on digital discipleship, safeguards, and age-appropriate tech do's and don'ts. This conversation is a must listen for anyone who has any form of technology in their lives...that's all of us! Enjoy. 

Thanks again for listening!

Journey with us by checking out our website at thewayiswild.com and signing up for our monthly INSPIRELETTER! You can also follow us on Instagram and Fa...


A Ninja and an Evangelist with Jared Greer
#74
08/26/2025

In this episode, we sit down with Jared Greer. Jared is a former contestant on American Ninja Warrior and he has created a distinctive platform to capture the attention of audiences and creatively communicate the gospel message through Overcoming Obstacles Ministries. He shares with us about the opportunities he has been given to fly through the air all over the country and tell thousands of people about Jesus! Our conversation with Jared is both fascinating and and inspiring. Enjoy.   

Thanks again for listening!

Journey with us by checking out our website at thewayiswild.com and si...


Crayons, Chaos, and Christ with Toni Collier
#73
08/19/2025

In this episode, we sit down with the hilarious and honest, Toni Collier. Toni is the founder of an international women’s organization called Broken Crayons Still Color, where she helps people process through brokenness and get to healing and hope. Toni is a speaker, host of the Still Coloring podcast, and author of three books: Brave Enough to be Broken, a children's book, Broken Crayons Still Color, & her newest book, Don’t try this alone (that is being released on Tuesday, as well!) Toni is teaching people all over the globe that you can be broken and still worth...


Fun and Serious Rapid Fire Questions
#72
07/29/2025

In this episode, Blake and Joy answer personal questions, serious questions, and fun questions. They go all over the map with questions they did not let the other one see so the answers are raw and unscripted. This one is a fun one to listen to! Enjoy and share!

Thanks again for listening!

Journey with us by checking out our website at thewayiswild.com and signing up for our monthly INSPIRELETTER! You can also follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date on all things The Way is Wild.



YOU ASKED FOR IT - What Happens When Christians Die?
#71
07/22/2025

In this episode we talk about the land up yonder, the holy city, Angel Acres, Paradiseville...that's right, we talking about heaven! Specifically, we are answering the question what happens when you die. Do you go right to heaven? Is there a sleep period before you join Jesus when He returns? We will dive into the different views held by different pockets of Christian communities. It's a fun discussion! Enjoy and share!

Thanks again for listening!

Journey with us by checking out our website at thewayiswild.com and signing up for our monthly INSPIRELETTER! You c...


You Asked For It - The New Age Movement
#70
07/15/2025

In this episode, we explore the rise of New Age philosophy—its roots, appeal, and influence in today’s culture. Through the lens of a biblical worldview, we unpack popular New Age ideas like manifestation, energy healing, meditation and wellness while  contrasting them with the truth of Scripture. This conversation will also hopefully help you to decipher truth from lies. Whether you’re curious, concerned, or just want clarity, this conversation will equip you to engage with grace and discernment.

Thanks again for listening!

Journey with us by checking out our website at thewayiswild.com and sig...


You Asked For It - Discernment in the Mundane
#69
07/08/2025

In this episode, Blake and Joy talk about having discernment in the everyday ebbs and flows of life. They discuss how to discern God's will and how it is more like a sandbox and not so much a dot to dot journey. They also discuss how to discern God's voice and how to learn the art of listening to Him. 

Thanks again for listening!

Journey with us by checking out our website at thewayiswild.com and signing up for our monthly INSPIRELETTER! You can also follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to da...


You Asked For It - Commitment
#68
07/01/2025

In a world that celebrates options and instant results, commitment can feel outdated — but it’s more vital than ever! In this episode, we dive into the biblical and practical importance of sticking it out: in faith, relationships, purpose, and calling. We also discuss how to balance grace with accountability when dealing with people who still struggle on fulfilling commitments. Discover how commitment shapes character, builds trust, and leads to lasting impact, even when it’s hard.

Thanks again for listening!

Journey with us by checking out our website at thewayiswild.com and signing up for ou...