On this episode of Chasing Joy, we’re joined by Russell Burke—a man whose outlook on life redefines what it truly means to find light in the darkest places. Spencer welcomes his old friend Russell to share the story of how his life changed literally in a split second: one moment he was a fun-loving, active dad and friend; the next, a shallow dive in Lake Havasu left him a quadriplegic, ventilator-dependent, and facing challenges most of us can hardly imagine.

But Russell’s journey is about far more than loss—it’s about acceptance and the relentless pursuit of joy. In an honest and uplifting conversation, he breaks down what it took to go from the depths of depression to becoming a beacon of hope for others facing spinal cord injuries and life’s curveballs. Joined by co-hosts Wayne and Bryan, this episode dives into how Russell uses social media to spark healing and awareness, the power of community and support, and the critical difference acceptance has made in his life. He shares not only the realities of radical dependence and adapting to a completely new way of living, but also how cultivating a positive mindset—and a strong circle of genuine connections—helps light the path forward.

Whether you’re facing adversity or just need a dose of perspective, Russell’s story is an inspiring reminder that we can find meaning and happiness, even in circumstances that seem impossible.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to Chasing Joy! In this episode, Spencer, Wayne, and Bryan welcome back Ishaan, a college student from USC, for a candid and thought-provoking conversation about what it means to pursue a meaningful life while grappling with the realities of our world. With Ishan offering his honest, youthful perspective, the group dives into some of the big questions facing his generation—from the challenges of "adulting" and the daunting landscape of education and employment, to the weight of global injustices and the legacy left by previous generations.

Together, they explore feelings of guilt and privilege, discuss the complexities of ethical consumerism, and wrestle with whether there are any easy fixes to the problems today's youth inherit. But it's not all heavy—there’s plenty of laughter, personal reflection, and practical wisdom, including what makes for a truly "good day." The episode touches on everything from staying present and intentional, to the value of nurturing relationships, to questioning whether it's responsible to bring new life into an uncertain world. If you're curious about how the next generation is experiencing—and hoping to improve—the world, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to another episode of Chasing Joy! In today’s conversation, Spencer, Bryan, and Wayne are joined in the studio by Ishaan—a bright, thoughtful double major at the elite high-pressure University of Southern California. If you’ve ever wondered what the pursuit of joy, connection, and purpose looks like from the perspective of Gen Z, you’re in the right place.

Ishaan opens up about tackling the complex landscape of coming of age during the pandemic, navigating academic pressures as a first-generation American, and the central role of community in finding real, lasting happiness. Together, the group dives into the ways technology shapes our relationships, the value—and double-edged sword—of social media, and how burnout shows up even in the college years.

With humor, honesty, and a healthy dose of generational perspective, today’s episode is about more than just chasing joy—it’s about defining it for yourself, staying connected to your support system, and finding wisdom in the journey, no matter where you are in life. Join us as we unpack lessons, share a few laughs, and seek advice from someone truly “in the thick of it.”

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.