Welcome to THE CONNECTION

Episodes

Gen Z:  21 and Growing Up!
58
Feb. 4, 2026

Gen Z: 21 and Growing Up!

The conversation delves into the challenges and experiences of young adulthood, exploring themes of comparison pressure, faith and identity, marriage and individuality, and mental health awareness. It provides insights into the overwhelming pressure of adulthood, the heaviness of self-discovery, challenges in faith and obedience, and the surprises and realities of marriage at a young age. Additionally, it discusses the importance of balancing individuality in marriage and the prevalence of menta...
ELIMINATE TO ELEVATE
57
Jan. 21, 2026

ELIMINATE TO ELEVATE

Unleash Your Potential: 5 Bad Habits to Leave Behind for a Thriving 2026 As we step into a new year, many of us find ourselves overwhelmed with goals and resolutions. However, true progress often comes from what we choose to leave behind. In this blog post, we will explore five detrimental habits that can hinder your momentum in 2026, inspired by insights from a recent podcast. 1. Stop Saying You’re Busy The word "busy" has become a common filler in our conversations, often used to deflect meani...
The TRUTH about Gen Z
56
Jan. 14, 2026

The TRUTH about Gen Z

In this heartfelt conversation, Jay Miralles engages with his 17-year-old son Mason to explore the complexities of teenage life, including identity, mental health, values, relationships, and the impact of social media. Mason shares his insights on the pressures faced by teens today, the importance of mental health discussions, and the value of supportive relationships. The dialogue emphasizes the need for understanding and communication between generations, highlighting the positive aspects of y...
You can't do it ALONE!
55
Dec. 12, 2025

You can't do it ALONE!

Jay Miralles interviews Marty Gray, a veteran who transitioned from a 20-year military career to entrepreneurship in real estate. They discuss the importance of networking, vulnerability in business, and the creation of OBO (Our Business Owners), a community for entrepreneurs. Marty shares insights on building a network, the significance of mindset, and the value of commitment in business. The conversation also highlights upcoming conferences aimed at supporting business owners and fostering con...
OPINIONS VS ADVICE
54
Dec. 8, 2025

OPINIONS VS ADVICE

Summary In this conversation, Jay Miralles explores the critical distinction between advice and opinion, emphasizing how opinions can often hinder personal growth and the pursuit of dreams. He discusses the dangers of unsolicited opinions, especially from well-meaning individuals, and highlights the importance of seeking advice from qualified sources who have real experience. Through personal anecdotes and practical strategies, he encourages listeners to be selective about whose voices they allo...
GOAL PLANNING, PART 4 of 4
53
Dec. 4, 2025

GOAL PLANNING, PART 4 of 4

In this conversation, Jay Miralles discusses the importance of identity and self-belief in achieving long-term success. He emphasizes that while goals can change actions, it is one's identity that ultimately transforms life. Miralles explores the concepts of grit, resilience, and discipline, arguing that true strength is forged through conflict and challenges. He provides practical strategies for maintaining consistency and accountability, highlighting the significance of a clear identity and en...
GOAL PLANNING, PART 3 OF 4
52
Dec. 3, 2025

GOAL PLANNING, PART 3 OF 4

Title: Mastering the Art of Execution: Turning Plans into Power Introduction: In today’s fast-paced world, having a plan is just the first step; executing that plan is where true success lies. In a recent podcast, Jay Miralles delves into the crucial phase of execution, emphasizing that while motivation can ignite the spark, it is discipline that keeps the flame alive. Let’s explore the insights shared in the podcast that can help you transform your plans into powerful actions. Section 1: Unders...
GOAL PLANNING, PART 2 OF 4
51
Dec. 2, 2025

GOAL PLANNING, PART 2 OF 4

Summary In this conversation, Jay Miralles emphasizes the importance of designing a clear blueprint for personal and professional success by 2026. He discusses the necessity of clarity, the three-piece blueprint for achieving goals, the significance of eliminating distractions, and the power of setting stretch goals. Miralles also highlights the importance of execution and accountability in turning intentions into reality, urging listeners to take immediate action towards their goals. Takeaways ...
GOAL PLANNING, PART 1 of 4
50
Dec. 1, 2025

GOAL PLANNING, PART 1 of 4

4 PART SERIES PART 1 OF 4 In this conversation, Jay Miralles discusses the importance of having a concrete plan for achieving personal breakthroughs in 2026. He emphasizes the need for honesty in assessing one's goals and the difference between wishes and actionable plans. The discussion covers the significance of health as a foundation for success, the role of systems and methods in achieving goals, the impact of environment on personal growth, and the necessity of setting measurable and slig...
The SAFE Little Voice In Your Head:  HOW TO BEAT IT
49
Nov. 26, 2025

The SAFE Little Voice In Your Head: HOW TO BEAT IT

The SAFE Little Voice In Your Head: HOW TO BEAT IT This episode delves into the concept of the inner voice, exploring how it acts as a barrier to personal growth and success. Jay Miralles discusses the survival wiring of the inner voice, its impact on confidence, and practical strategies to overcome it. The conversation emphasizes the importance of belief, courage, and action over skill and talent. This episode comes from one of the chapters in my book Let's Go! https://books.by/jaymiralles Ke...
DO YOU WORRY TOO MUCH?
48
Nov. 23, 2025

DO YOU WORRY TOO MUCH?

In this conversation, Jay Miralles explores the pervasive nature of worry, stress, and anxiety, emphasizing how these feelings often stem from our brain's survival instincts. He discusses the common triggers of worry, such as money, work performance, and family dynamics, and offers practical techniques to manage these feelings. Miralles introduces the concept of layers of control, highlighting the importance of focusing on what we can control to reduce anxiety. He concludes with strategies to re...
The Power of Belief w/ Jay  Miralles
47
Nov. 17, 2025

The Power of Belief w/ Jay Miralles

In this episode, Jay Miralles explores the profound impact of mindset and belief on personal growth and relationships. He emphasizes that belief is the foundation of success, and mindset shapes our actions and interactions. Through practical advice and personal anecdotes, Jay encourages listeners to cultivate a positive mindset, confront limiting beliefs, and take actionable steps towards their goals. The conversation culminates in the inspiring story of the 50 Mile March, illustrating how small...
Disconnected in a Connected World...
46
Oct. 27, 2025

Disconnected in a Connected World...

"Text now! I'll Respond" What if the most “connected” era is quietly starving our need for belonging? Jay takes a hard, honest look at how screens reshape attention, how comments replaced conversations, and why hearts can feel empty even when feeds look full. This isn’t tech-bashing; it’s a practical, human blueprint for getting your presence back. We unpack sobering screen-time habits, the anxiety that flares when devices are out of reach, and the subtle ways “busy” becomes a shield that k...
From Bullying to Breakthrough: A Family’s Fight for Their Son and the Hard Truths About Teen Mental Health PART 3 of 3
45
Oct. 11, 2025

From Bullying to Breakthrough: A Family’s Fight for Their Son and the Hard Truths About Teen Mental Health PART 3 of 3

"Text now! I'll Respond" A teenager’s world narrowed to taunts, pressure, and a painful injury—then one snap nearly ended everything. We sit with Lisa and Will Cummings to trace the full story: an outgoing kid who wanted everyone’s friendship, the slow drip of bullying from kindergarten to high school, and the unseen weight of online gaming harassment that followed him into his room. What follows is unfiltered and human: the scramble to find a therapist who takes your insurance, the drug tha...
She found her brother clinging on to life, prayed, and chose hope over fear!  Part 2 of 3
44
Oct. 10, 2025

She found her brother clinging on to life, prayed, and chose hope over fear! Part 2 of 3

"Text now! I'll Respond" We sit with Makenzie, a 15-year-old sister who helped save her brother after a suicide attempt, and trace how faith, therapy, and practical habits rebuilt trust and hope. Now 15, she sits down with us to share what happened before and after that moment—how small warning signs added up, why she kept checking on her brother even when he didn’t answer, and what it took to rebuild connection, faith, and daily life after a suicide attempt. We talk through the parts peopl...
Silent Pain to Second Chances: a teen’s journey through bullying, suicide survival, and faith-Part 1 of 3 Part Series
43
Oct. 8, 2025

Silent Pain to Second Chances: a teen’s journey through bullying, suicide survival, and faith-Part 1 of 3 Part Series

"Text now! I'll Respond" 🎧 Content Warning: This episode contains open and honest discussions about suicide, self-harm, and mental health struggles. The conversation may be distressing for some listeners. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please reach out for help. In the U.S., you can call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You are not alone—help is available 24/7. PART 1 OF 3 PART SERIES A boy we once called “Little Will” returns as a 17-yea...
“Rooted in the Community, for the Community.”
42
Oct. 2, 2025

“Rooted in the Community, for the Community.”

"Text now! I'll Respond" What if your tree guy was a tree gal who leads with craft, faith, and community—and channels her business into veteran support? Meet certified arborist and ultra-endurance athlete Amy Nikai, one of Nebraska’s first female-owned, ground-level tree company leaders, as we trace how proper pruning, honest bids, and storm relief can grow into a movement that funds the 50 Mile March and honors military families. We start where roots meet purpose: why trail running drew Am...
Jesus at the Helm: How One Veteran Steers His Business
41
Sept. 11, 2025

Jesus at the Helm: How One Veteran Steers His Business

"Text now! I'll Respond" From the battlefields of Afghanistan to the forefront of community service, Scott Wood's story is one of transformation, purpose, and unwavering faith. After enlisting in the Navy at just 17 and deploying to Afghanistan as a military canine handler at 19, Scott experienced traumas that continue to shape him today – including the loss of his military dog, Axe, and fellow service members. "I don't think I've coped yet," Scott candidly admits when discussing his milita...
How One Man Turned Tragedy into Purpose and connected with the 50-Mile March
40
Aug. 20, 2025

How One Man Turned Tragedy into Purpose and connected with the 50-Mile March

"Text now! I'll Respond" What happens when unimaginable tragedy strikes, and you're left to pick up the pieces? Brett Allen's story is one of profound loss transformed into purpose through connection and courage. Brett's life changed forever when his ex-wife Cari was murdered by her boyfriend—a veteran who fled to Belize before being brought to justice. Despite this traumatic connection to the veteran community, Brett made the remarkable choice to participate in the 50-Mile March, an event ...
Find Your Tribe:  Find Your Vibe
39
July 14, 2025

Find Your Tribe: Find Your Vibe

"Text now! I'll Respond" A tribe isn't just people who like the same stuff – it's made of individuals who believe in your mission, don't flinch when you dream big, and show up when it's inconvenient for them. Success is not a solo sport, and fulfillment doesn't happen in isolation. • Spotting the wrong circle: people who hope you fail, give bad advice, or remain silent when you share goals • When you're around the right people, your standards go up and you start thinking bigger naturally • ...
The Life-Changing Freedom of Sobriety
38
July 8, 2025

The Life-Changing Freedom of Sobriety

"Text now! I'll Respond" We explore how giving up alcohol creates unexpected space for bigger, more authentic living through the eyes of six individuals at different stages of their sobriety journey. Each shares candid reflections on what surprised them, what they feared losing, and what they gained by choosing a life without alcohol. • Discovering the unexpected gift of more time—reclaiming "lost" days previously spent recovering from drinking • Sleep quality dramatically improves, creating...
Wilson Munsterman, Author-  Marked By Adoption: A 19-Year-Old Changing Lives
37
June 28, 2025

Wilson Munsterman, Author- Marked By Adoption: A 19-Year-Old Changing Lives

"Text now! I'll Respond" What are the odds that a healthy baby boy abandoned on a hospital doorstep in China would grow up to become an accomplished author, speaker, and adoption advocate in America? For Wilson Munsterman, this extraordinary journey isn't just a story—it's his life. At just 19 years old, Wilson brings wisdom far beyond his years as he shares his powerful adoption story with raw authenticity. Born during China's one-child policy era and left without identification, Wilson sp...
The Unstoppable Nate Peitz: Taking the "Dis" Out of Disability
36
June 21, 2025

The Unstoppable Nate Peitz: Taking the "Dis" Out of Disability

"Text now! I'll Respond" Ep 36 The Unstoppable Nate Peitz: Taking the "Dis" Out of Disability What does it mean to truly overcome limitations? In this powerful conversation, Nate Peitz redefines what's possible when you refuse to be defined by circumstances beyond your control. Born with spina bifida, Nate shares his remarkable journey of growing up as the only wheelchair user among five siblings in a family that never treated him differently. "Take the dis out of disability" isn't just a c...
DeDee Oliver: Real Estate, Real Life
35
June 18, 2025

DeDee Oliver: Real Estate, Real Life

"Text now! I'll Respond" The power of genuine connection threads through this conversation between longtime friends Jay Miralles and DeDee Oliver, who reconnect after nearly three decades to share insights that span professional wisdom and deeply personal memories. DeDee opens up about her remarkable 27-year journey in real estate, revealing how the industry transformed from three-ring binders with listings and paper maps to today's digital landscape. Her success secret? Blending traditiona...