Chasing Joy is a podcast about the pursuit of joy in the midst of real life — with all its unfolding, obstacles, and unexpected turns. Hosted by Spencer, Bryan, and Wayne, each episode blends honest conversation, personal stories, and thoughtful reflections on how we show up to ourselves, our relationships, and the world around us.
Along the way, they’re joined by guests who bring their own inspiring — and sometimes heartbreaking — stories of resilience, loss, hope, and transformation. Their experiences open space for all of us to learn, reflect, and discover new ways of living with authenticity, purpose, and joy.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Chasing Joy is a podcast about the pursuit of joy in the midst of real life — with all its unfolding, obstacles, and unexpected turns. Hosted by Spencer, Bryan, and Wayne, each episode blends honest conversation, personal stories, and thoughtful reflections on how we show up to ourselves, our relationships, and the world around us.
Along the way, they’re joined by guests who bring their own inspiring — and sometimes heartbreaking — stories of resilience, loss, hope, and transformation. Their experiences open space for all of us to learn, reflect, and discover new ways of living with authenticity, purpose, and joy.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In “Fragile Future,” Spencer, Bryan, and Wayne reflect on the season’s biggest themes... from healing and purpose to the messy beauty of uncertainty. They unpack why not knowing often feels harder than bad news, and how anxiety, control, and the endless what-ifs keep us stuck in survival mode.
Through humor, honesty, and real-life reflection, the crew explores how awe, curiosity, and mindful pauses can help us meet change with creativity and peace.
If you’ve ever struggled to stay grounded when life feels unpredictable, this conversation is your reminder that even in chaos, joy — and a little grace — are still within reach.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to another episode of Chasing Joy.
Spencer, Bryan, and Wayne sit down with Dr. Tipu Khan... a family physician from Ventura County who recently returned from Gaza after volunteering as an ER doctor in the middle of an active war zone.
What he shares isn’t easy to hear... but it’s real. Tipu talks about the conversations he had with his family before leaving... the letters he wrote to his children in case he didn’t make it home... and what it means to step into a place where even hospitals aren’t safe.
Through his firsthand stories, we hear about the staggering level of trauma unfolding every day... and the small, human moments that somehow keep people going. Children laughing and playing at the water truck. A wedding that fills a tent city with music. A stranger offering a warm meal to tired doctors.
This conversation moves through heavy, deeply human themes... the purpose of advocacy in medicine, the privilege of safety and stability, and the struggle to process suffering once you’ve seen it up close. Dr. Khan also shares his perspective on how narratives are shaped from afar... and how, even in the darkest places, simple acts of love and connection can begin to restore faith in humanity.
On the Ground in Gaza is a raw, unguarded look at what it means to stay human amid chaos... and a reminder that healing—personal and collective—often begins with small steps... taken with great love.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome back to Chasing Joy! In this episode, Spencer, Wayne, and Bryan revisit a long-lost conversation that became legend in their archives—the infamous “Diamonds and Measuring Sticks.”
What begins as playful banter quickly unfolds into one of the show’s most profound discussions: how our perspective shapes our reality, how our “measuring sticks” define what we value, and how shifting our view—even slightly—can change everything.
Bryan introduces the metaphor of the “joy diamond,” a lens through which every facet of life refracts a different truth. Wayne brings it down to earth with practical tools like breathwork, presence, and curiosity—reminding us that transformation starts with a single pause. Spencer challenges both with his trademark skepticism, grounding the philosophy in real-world struggle: bills, responsibility, and the chaos of everyday life.
Together they explore how we evolve, how to find serenity in the middle of crisis, and why joy is less about perfection and more about perspective.
A conversation on awareness, sustainability of the soul, and the courage to re-measure what truly matters.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this heartfelt episode of Chasing Joy, Spencer, Bryan, and Wayne welcome singer-songwriter and music therapist Shelby Figueroa, whose journey from nursing to healing through music is as moving as the songs she writes.
Shelby opens up about losing her mother while in nursing school, discovering songwriting as a way to process grief, and the profound moment she realized her soul was “dying” inside a career that no longer aligned with her values. Through stories of courage, self-discovery, and connection, she shares how leaving the safety of a “sensible” path led her toward a life of purpose—and how music became both her own medicine and a bridge to heal others.
With her ukulele in hand, Shelby gives the hosts (and all of us) a firsthand experience of the calm, presence, and emotion she brings to hospital rooms every day—where music can ease anxiety, unlock memory, and even spark miraculous awakenings.
From laughter about “death-metal therapy” to tears over the power of song, this episode is a beautiful reminder that joy often arrives when we quiet the noise, follow what feels alive, and allow ourselves to be instruments of healing.
Links to Shelby's Music:
For more information about music therapy, you can contact Shelby at Shelbymusictherapist@gmail.com.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome back to Chasing Joy! In this episode, Spencer, Wayne, and Bryan sit down with Doug Marone, whose inspiring journey from chasing career success to embracing philanthropy has completely reshaped his outlook on joy and fulfillment.
After years of 80-hour workweeks and corporate achievement, a single moment at a friend’s funeral, and two chance encounters at a charity event, set Doug on a new path. He went on to co-found the Ride for Autism Foundation, spending nearly two decades raising funds and awareness for families affected by autism. What started as an effort to give back became a transformative lesson in perspective, gratitude, and genuine connection.
Through candid stories and plenty of humor, Doug reflects on how giving to others fed his own soul, why joy requires daily intention, and how even a simple smile can change the course of someone’s day. The conversation explores the power of gratitude, the challenge of slowing down, and the truth that fulfillment isn’t found in more... but in meaning.
It’s a warm, thoughtful, and inspiring conversation that reminds us: sometimes joy isn’t something to chase... it’s something to share.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Chasing Joy, musician (Beware of Darkness) and author (Thank God for Depression) Kyle Nicolaides, joins us alongside SoCal Sound host Hillary Gordon to explore what it really means to chase joy.
Kyle opens up about how depression and anxiety ended his rock career—touring with the Smashing Pumpkins, performing on Conan, topping charts—yet became the doorway to healing, spirituality, and self-compassion. From ayahuasca journeys and silent retreats to confronting early trauma, he reframes depression not as a curse, but as a messenger pointing toward liberation.
Alongside Hillary’s grounded wisdom, we unpack:
Kyle also teases his next book, Thank God for Anxiety, and the spiritual practices behind it.
This is a conversation about healing, compassion, and finding joy in the very places we try to avoid.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this week's episode of Chasing Joy we journey into the dark and silence within... sensory deprivation.
It started with a card in a Berkeley bookstore.
“The secret to getting everything you want is…” it read.
That simple line opened the door to a deeper conversation—about joy, about contentment, and about the quiet practice of wanting less.
In this episode, we talk about the difference between chasing more and being present to what already is. Wayne shares what he’s been learning through mindfulness, breathwork, and the strange but revealing experience of floating in a sensory deprivation tank. We talk about the awkwardness of tuning out the noise, the difficulty of sitting with your own thoughts, and the unexpected beauty in it all.
This one’s not about hacks or productivity. It’s about slowing down long enough to actually hear yourself think—and maybe even remember what matters.
If you're feeling stretched thin, or just curious about what contentment could look like in real life… this might be a good one to sit with.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome back to Chasing Joy! After a 20-month hiatus, Spencer, Bryan, and Wayne—the original “band” behind the podcast—reunite for a raw and honest conversation about what it really means to pursue happiness in a world that seems to only get more complicated. In this episode, they reflect on life’s unpredictable twists, changing definitions of joy, and the tools they’ve gathered (and sometimes lost) along the way.
Spencer opens up about feeling like he’s “relapsed” in his journey of chasing joy, despite his best efforts, gratitude practices, and support systems. Together, the group explores the idea that joy isn’t a fixed destination but a continuous, ever-evolving journey—one that often requires redefining your measuring stick for happiness, building new boundaries, and learning how to surf life’s waves rather than control them.
Bryan and Wayne share insights on balance, boundaries, and the importance of community, while also highlighting how external pressures—from personal finances to world events—can dramatically shift our approaches to joy and contentment. The conversation is filled with metaphors (from music to surfing), humor, and vulnerability. Whether you’re navigating your own challenging season or simply looking to reconnect with what truly matters, this episode is a reminder that chasing joy is messy, ongoing, and, above all, a collective experience.
Tune in for practical wisdom, genuine laughs, and heartfelt moments as the Chasing Joy crew dives back in and invites you to join the journey.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome back to another episode of Chasing Joy! Spencer, Bryan, and Wayne, dive into a truly thoughtful conversation with our guest, award-winning singer-songwriter, faculty member of Influential U, and podcast host, Josh Damigo.
In this episode, we unpack the art and practice of deliberately cultivating joy in our daily lives. Josh shares his journey of moving from simply reacting to life’s challenges to proactively choosing joy, and how naming and exploring our emotions can help us find clarity and satisfaction. We talk about the difference between contentment and satisfaction, why curiosity and self-awareness matter, and the power of sitting with our feelings—rather than skipping past them.
Bryan brings up the concept of “hedonic adaptation,” stirring a deep discussion on why chasing the next best thing can sometimes leave us unfulfilled, and Wayne offers a nuanced look at how our mindset and environment shape our experience of happiness.
Whether you’re someone who finds joy in big achievements or in quiet contentment, this episode is full of practical wisdom—and plenty of laughs—that will inspire you to slow down, reflect, and make space for joy right where you are. Plus, you’ll get to hear about Josh’s take on toxic positivity, philosophy in everyday life, and maybe even pick up a new way to handle those inevitable flat tires on the road to happiness.
So grab your headphones, get cozy, and join us on this week’s episode of Chasing Joy as we explore what it really means to chase—and catch—joy in today’s world.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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.
Welcome to another episode of Chasing Joy! In today’s conversation, Spencer, Bryan, and Wayne are joined by the vibrant and brutally honest Christian James Hand—radio personality, music producer (yep, his work is on the Guardians of the Galaxy 3 soundtrack!), and noted “music dissector.” Christian doesn’t just share his professional highlights; he brings us deep into his personal journey, opening up about his late-in-life Asperger’s diagnosis and decades-long quest for mental clarity, regulation, and, ultimately, joy.
From candid confessions about anxiety in something as mundane as grocery shopping, to his unfiltered take on trauma, therapy, and breaking the cycle with everything from psilocybin to ketamine treatments, Christian’s story is as unconventional as it is inspiring. Expect real talk about what joy means when the pursuit feels more like a battle, the relief of finding the right tools, and the ongoing work of integrating your truest self.
This episode dives into the raw realities of neurodivergence, finding purpose, and the science (and messiness) of healing—blending humor, heart, and a little bit of psychedelic insight. Strap in for the most “chasing” we’ve ever done on Chasing Joy!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On this episode of Chasing Joy, our hosts Spencer, Wayne, and Bryan welcome back special guest Samantha for a candid, thought-provoking conversation about self-perception, mindfulness, and the practice of finding joy in everyday moments. The group opens up about their own personal histories and challenges, sharing stories that range from goth adolescence and comfort food confessions, to the real-life insights that have shaped how they show up in the world.
Samantha brings a therapist’s perspective, challenging us to examine core beliefs—like “I’m not good enough”—and introducing the powerful concept that “every judgment is a projection.” The discussion dives deep into the transformative potential of meditation, the inner observer, and practical ways to re-story our lives. With plenty of warmth (and a little humor), the group explores how practices like gratitude and sacred attention can truly reshape our daily experience. Whether you’re a mindfulness veteran or just meditation-curious, this episode serves up relatable stories, helpful frameworks, and plenty of inspiration for anyone chasing a bit more joy.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to another episode of Chasing Joy! In this lively and insightful conversation, Spencer, Bryan, and Wayne, are joined by their first guest, Samantha, a therapist and life coach with a deep passion for helping others find real contentment. The group dives into what it truly means to “chase joy” (and why it’s so different from chasing happiness), tackling the nuances between fleeting pleasure and lasting fulfillment.
Samantha offers a fresh perspective on how joy is cultivated from within, rather than pursued externally—sharing stories from her own practice and challenging the group to rethink unhealthy narratives and habits that block our paths to joy. The episode becomes interactive as Bryan volunteers for a breakthrough coaching session on his struggle with motivation, shining a light on the real-life barriers so many of us face when trying to make positive changes.
Rooted in humor, honesty, and practical wisdom, this episode explores the obstacles that keep us from our happiest, most authentic selves—and the tools we can use to get there. So whether you’re feeling stuck, searching for inspiration, or just looking for a few good laughs, get ready to join the pursuit of something deeper on Chasing Joy!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome back to Chasing Joy! In this episode, Spencer, Bryan, and Wayne dive headfirst into the modern maze of social media, media, and consumerism—and explore how our endless scrolling, news consumption, and buying habits impact our happiness. You’ll hear candid personal stories (including Spencer’s adventures in hair dye and bunny parenting), honest admissions about marketing tactics, and insights from both education and media insiders about why negativity “sticks” while positivity seems to slip away.
The trio unpacks how algorithms reinforce our instant-gratification culture and keep us stuck in cycles of comparison, self-doubt, and echo chambers—and why breaking free from autopilot thinking is harder than ever. But it’s not all doom and gloom: the hosts share real, practical ways to reclaim presence and mindfulness, challenging you to reflect on your own motives when reaching for your phone and encouraging you to find your fit in an online world that often thrives on division.
If you’ve ever wondered how all that screen time is shaping your personal quest for joy, or if it’s even possible to want less in a world that’s always advertising more, this episode is for you. Join Chasing Joy as we unpack the noisy digital world and refocus on what it means to live—and connect—intentionally.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome back to another episode of Chasing Joy! This week, Spencer, Wayne, and Bryan dive deep into the messy, imperfect process of seeking happiness and meaning. Join the crew as they candidly explore the slip-ups and life lessons that come with the pursuit of joy—debating what really counts as a “mistake,” sharing personal stories of loss, boundaries, and second chances, and examining how we define joy for ourselves versus how society tries to sell it to us.
The trio gets honest (and sometimes hilariously sidetracked) about learning from pain, setting boundaries, compulsive behaviors, and the importance of mindfulness and gratitude. They reflect on the power of service, the neuroscience behind giving, and the traps of chasing quick dopamine hits in a world full of distractions. If you’ve ever wondered if you’re missing the point on your own journey to happiness—or if all those “mistakes” are really just steps on the path—this episode will leave you thinking, laughing, and maybe even breathing a little deeper.
Settle in, get comfortable, and join us on Chasing Joy as we unpack the setbacks, breakthroughs, and little moments that make the search for happiness so worthwhile.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome back to Chasing Joy! In this episode, Spencer, Wayne, and Bryan dive deep into the art—and challenge—of pursuing happiness in everyday life. With Spencer’s radio-ready warmth, Bryan’s strategic insights, and Wayne’s rich experience as a former educator and behavior specialist, the crew unpacks what it means to “chase” joy, questioning whether the pursuit itself often places happiness just out of reach.
You’ll hear candid stories, including a moving account from Wayne about navigating trauma and change within his own family, and moments of down-to-earth humor that keep things real. The guys explore how life’s curveballs, from health crises to burnout, can force us to rethink what joy really is—and where we find it.
Packed with practical tools, the episode highlights simple, powerful reminders: hydrate, get some sleep, and remember to check in with yourself—sometimes the road to happiness starts with meeting our basic needs. Bryan shares how even a short break in nature can reset your mind, while Wayne breaks down how self-awareness and “low power mode” can guide us to healthier patterns. It’s a perspective-shifting reminder that the little things can have a major impact on our wellbeing.
Tune in and join the conversation as the trio shares hard-won lessons, laughs, and small steps we can all take to move a little closer to joy—no perfection required.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to the very first episode of Chasing Joy! In this premiere, hosts Spencer, Bryan, and Wayne invite listeners on a fresh, honest conversation about what it really means to pursue a joyful life. They introduce themselves—not as experts with perfect lives or secret formulas—but as real people exploring joy in all its messy, complicated, and deeply personal forms.
Drawing from their own diverse backgrounds in radio, education, and lived experience, the trio dives into powerful ideas: Is joy something we find outside ourselves, or is it within us all along? How do our perspectives and reactions shape our happiness, even when life isn’t perfect? And what happens when you reach “halftime” in life and realize you might want to play the second half differently than the first?
Blending humor, humility, and wisdom, they touch on the value of gratitude, the challenges of societal expectations, and the importance of telling stories—both our own and those of others. Whether you’re just starting out or deep into your journey, this episode sets the stage for a podcast that’s all about learning, growing, and maybe, just maybe, uncovering a little more joy together.
Tune in for a candid, relatable, and inspiring kick-off to Chasing Joy!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.