The UNPACKIN' it Podcast With Bryce Johnson & Trip Smith

As the NFL Draft approaches, GMs are on high alert, scouring scouting reports for "red flags" that could jeopardize a team’s future. But are we applying that same scrutiny to our own lives? In this episode of The UNPACKIN’ it Podcast, Bryce unpacks the high-stakes world of the NFL Draft and explores why identifying warning signs is critical—not just for winning Super Bowls, but for living a life that honors God. We dive into the wisdom of Proverbs 27:12, discussing how to distinguish between a "prudent person" who foresees danger and a "simpleton" who goes blindly toward negative consequences. Whether it's a questionable draft prospect or a personal relationship that has red flags, learn how to test, heed the warnings, and make wise decisions that lead to spiritual fruit. Show Notes The Cost of Ignoring Warnings: The Faith/Life Discussion Personal Red Flags:Proverbs 27:12 (NLT):"A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions. The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences."1 John 4:1 (ESV):"Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God..." Key Takeaways Don't Go Blindly:Honor God First:Find out more about UNPACKIN' it Ministries: HERE Subscribe to our YouTube channel! HERE Click HERE to support UNPACKIN' it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rory McIlroy Wins The Masters... But Has He Arrived? ⛳️ Rory McIlroy has secured another Green Jacket, adding to his "Major Championship" legacy. But in the world of sports—and in our own lives—the journey isn't over. In today's episode, we unpack why Rory is still "pressing on" and how his pursuit on the golf course parallels our spiritual journey. We dive into Philippians 3:12-14 to explore what it means to acknowledge we haven't "arrived" yet. Whether you're coming off a massive win or struggling in a fallen world, this video will encourage you to forget what lies behind and reach forward to what lies ahead. In this episode, we discuss: Why significant growth doesn't mean we are perfect or done. Philippians 3 Breakdown: Understanding Paul’s "upward call" in Christ Jesus. The Pursuit of Christlikeness Scottie Scheffler's performance and comments. Key Scripture: "I press on toward the goal to win the [heavenly] prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." — Philippians 3:14 (AMP) Connect with UNPACKIN' it: Hit subscribe/follow for more sports-faith conversations! Visit our website: www.unpackinit.com Follow us on Social:@unpackinit Find out more about UNPACKIN' it Ministries: HERE Subscribe to our YouTube channel! HERE Click HERE to support UNPACKIN' it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On The UNPACKIN' it Podcast, we unpack the parallels between sports, life, and faith. Join host Bryce Johnson and co-host Trip Smith as they dive into the National Championship game and a powerful lesson on preparation. In This Episode: Dusty May’s Final Four Decision We discuss Michigan’s dominant performance and Dusty May’s unique scouting tactics during the UConn-Illinois game. Expectancy + Preparation: How Dusty May’s confidence in his team led to his "uncommon" preparation, and what that teaches us about our own lives. Other Highlights: A look at UConn’s championship run, Michigan’s first title win since 1989. We explore how living with expectancy in Christ changes the way we approach daily battles and prepare our hearts through prayer and scripture. Key Scripture Referenced: Hebrews 4:16 (AMP): Approaching the throne of grace with confidence. 1 Peter 1:13 (AMP): Preparing your minds for action and fixing your hope on grace. Plus, Ernie Johnson won on the podium and a conversation on Mike vs. Michael Find out more about UNPACKIN' it Ministries: HERE Subscribe to our YouTube channel! HERE Click HERE to support UNPACKIN' it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The UNPACKIN' it Podcast, Bryce Johnson and Trip Smith unpack the emotional rollercoaster of March Madness after Duke’s stunning 19-point lead evaporated into a buzzer-beater loss to UConn. We discuss the reality of being a fan—the sacrifice, the commitment, and the painful moments that put our loyalty to the test. But there’s a deeper parallel. It can be hard being a sports fan, but following Jesus also comes with its own set of challenges, "heartbreaking defeats," and seasons that test our faith. As we enter Easter week, we’re looking at what it truly means to "take up your cross daily" and why the difficult path is always worth it in the end. In this episode, we discuss: Duke vs. UConn: Unpacking the wild sequence that sent the Huskies to the Final Four. Jon Scheyer’s Era: Taking over for a legend, navigating criticism, and building a powerhouse at age 38. How Luke 9:23 and 2 Timothy 3:12 remind us that the Christian life isn't always easy, but it is victorious. Finding Peace: Why we can "take heart" even when things don't go our way. Connect with the UNPACKIN' it Ministry: 📧 Email Bryce: Bryce@unpackinit.com 🌐 Website: unpackinit.com 🤝 Support the Ministry: unpackinit.com/donate Find out more about UNPACKIN' it Ministries: HERE Subscribe to our YouTube channel! HERE Click HERE to support UNPACKIN' it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

March Madness is in full swing, but as we head into the second weekend, we are missing the mid-major Cinderella story. This week, Bryce Johnson and Trip Smith unpack the first two rounds of the tournament, highlighting some of the best games and storylines. In This Episode, We Unpack: The Madness So Far:UNC & Duke: The Missing Cinderella:The "Old" Guard:Rick Pitino, Tom Izzo, and John CalipariFaith Parallel – Don’t Miss Out:John 15 and Galatians 5 Featured Scripture: John 15:5 (NLT):Galatians 5:James 1:5:Find out more about UNPACKIN' it Ministries: HERE Subscribe to our YouTube channel! HERE Click HERE to support UNPACKIN' it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of the UNPACKIN' it Podcast, Bryce Johnson and Trip Smith dive into the heart of what it means to live with integrity when "Nobody's Watching." Join The UNPACKIN' it Bracket Challenge fundraiser: unpackinit.com/march Using the backdrop of exciting games in front of small crowds during college basketball conference tournaments—where teams play with maximum effort with no one watching—we explore the parallels in our own lives and faith. Do we only perform when the lights are bright and the crowds are big, or are we committed to excellence and doing the right thing no matter what? In this episode, we unpack: Sports & Faith:Integrity:Current Sports Topics: Whether you're preparing for the "Big Dance" or working hard in a season of obscurity, this conversation will challenge you to give your best for the Lord, regardless of who is watching. Find out more about UNPACKIN' it Ministries: HERE Subscribe to our YouTube channel! HERE Click HERE to support UNPACKIN' it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The NFL offseason is heating up with quarterback rumors, free agency speculation, trade predictions, and bold roster changes heading into the 2026 season. Just like NFL teams searching for the right quarterback, we all have to ask: What am I looking for? What do I truly need? In this episode we ask: 👉 What quarterback in the right situation could THRIVE? 👉 What NFL team is just one QB away from getting over the hump? We break down potential NFL quarterback trades, free-agent fits, and bold offseason predictions — plus a powerful faith devotional on fresh starts, renewed commitment, and hope. We discuss how Jesus Christ is the answer. 🏈 NFL QB Trade & Free Agency Predictions and Best Case Scenarios Could we see: • Justin Fields to the Ravens? • Kirk Cousins back to the Vikings? • Sam Howell to the Panthers or Patriots? • Anthony Richardson to the Bills or Rams? • Tua Tagovailoa to the Eagles? • Derek Carr to the Jets? • Kyler Murray to the Falcons? Which teams will make bold moves? Which franchises will settle? Who gives their fanbase real hope for the future? Teams in Transition We examine quarterback uncertainty surrounding: Arizona Cardinals Atlanta Falcons New York Jets Indianapolis Colts Pittsburgh Steelers Kansas City Chiefs Las Vegas Raiders Cleveland Browns Faith & Life Devotional: What Are You Looking For? Are you in need of: A fresh start? A renewed commitment? Freedom from your past? Strength during injury or hardship? Hope after seasons of disappointment? We unpack powerful Scripture, including: 2 Corinthians 5:17 Ephesians 4:22-24 Hebrews 12:2 Psalm 51:10 Hebrews 10:23 Find out more about UNPACKIN' it Ministries: HERE Subscribe to our YouTube channel! HERE Click HERE to support UNPACKIN' it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's show, Bryce Johnson and Trip Smith unpack if we’ll follow hockey after Team USA won gold…and how this translates to following Jesus. Topics Include: Subscribe to the podcast and to the YouTube channel! HERE Support the ministry: HERE Our Social Media: Instagram: / unpackinit Facebook: / unpackinit X/Twitter: / unpackinit Tiktok: / unpackinit Find out more about UNPACKIN' it Ministries: HERE Subscribe to our YouTube channel! HERE Click HERE to support UNPACKIN' it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's show Bryce and Trip unpack the current state of the NBA and one of the big stories from the Olympics. We also discuss how we respond when Olympians lose…and how we can be encouraged to embrace empathy, sympathy, and care for those around us. What happens when we actually try to understand what someone else is going through? What does it look like to enter into someone else's pain? Topics Include: Should the NBA get rid of the NBA Draft? Has the NBA All Star weekend been fixed? Have you been watching the Olympics? Subscribe to the podcast and to the YouTube channel! https://linktr.ee/unpackinit Support the ministry: https://www.unpackinit.com/donate Our Social Media: Instagram: / unpackinit Facebook: / unpackinit X/Twitter: / unpackinit Tiktok: / unpackinit Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Check out the panel discussion from this year's Super Saturday Man Breakfast, hosted by UNPACKIN' it, that took place in Charlotte the day before the Super Bowl. This year's panel included former NFL players Brentson Buckner and Dwan Edwards. They talk about faith, football, and life with Bryce Johnson. It's an authentic, encouraging, and inspiring conversation. Topics Include: Brentson Buckner Bio. Grew up in Columbus, Georgia, played college football at Clemson, and was a first-team All-ACC selection. He is in the Clemson Athletic Hall of Fame. He was drafted in the second round of the 1994 NFL draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers. He played in Super Bowl XXX (30) against the Cowboys. Throughout his 12-year NFL career, he also played for the Bengals and 49ers and was with the Panthers from 2001-2005, including being a member of the 2003 Panthers team that played in Super Bowl XXXVIII (38). After his playing career, he coached high school football and was a radio personality on WFNZ. For over a decade, he was a defensive line coach in the NFL with stops in Arizona, Tampa Bay, Oakland, and Jacksonville. He has four children and has been married to Denise for 31 years. Dwan Edwards Bio: He grew up in Columbus, Montana, and in high school played football, basketball, and track and field, and was the senior class president. He played college football for the Oregon State Beavers, and He graduated in 2003 with a degree in business administration. He was selected by the Baltimore Ravens in the second round of the 2004 NFL draft. During his 12-year career, he also played for the Carolina Panthers and Buffalo Bills. He was a member of the 2015 Carolina Panthers team that played in Super Bowl 50. That was also his final game. Since retiring, he’s been a full-time dad with five kids and has also coached Weddington High School football. Click here to support UNPACKIN' it. https://www.unpackinit.com/donate Our Social Media: Instagram: / unpackinit Facebook: / unpackinit X/Twitter: / unpackinit Tiktok: / unpackinit Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, we unpack how the Seahawks won the Super Bowl…and what we as followers of Jesus need to stop, cease, and shut down. ay we unpack how the Seahawks won the Super Bowl and what we as followers of Jesus need to stop, cease, and shut down. Watch the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Purchase a copy of The Sports Devotional: Pro Football Edition TODAY! Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to discover how you can share the gospel through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, we unpack how the Seahawks and Patriots have won on the road all season…and what it means for followers of Jesus to win away from home. Watch the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Purchase a copy of The Sports Devotional: Pro Football Edition TODAY! Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to discover how you can share the gospel through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, we unpack the Seahawks and Patriots exceeding expectations as they head to the Super Bowl…and how God's power exceeds our expectations. Watch the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel! Purchase a copy of The Sports Devotional: Pro Football Edition TODAY! Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to discover how you can share the gospel through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, we unpack the Bills doing something different by firing Sean McDermott…and how we need to try something different when our ways and efforts come up empty. Watch the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel! Purchase a copy of The Sports Devotional: Pro Football Edition TODAY! Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to discover how you can share the gospel through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, we unpack how close the NFL games were and how, as fans, we not only desire close games but also a close relationship with God. Watch the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel! Purchase a copy of The Sports Devotional: Pro Football Edition TODAY! Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to discover how you can share the gospel through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Merry Christmas UNPACKIN' it and Fantasy Football Fellowship podcast listeners; welcome to our annual Christmas special! Today on the show, Bryce Johnson and Trip Smith talk about their favorite Christmas movies/songs that are in their annual rotation, fantasy football players and their accompanying Christmas movie, and so much more holiday topics! Today's devotional topic is all about how the holiday season brings out everyone's inner child and how we continue to become mature believers of Christ with a childlike faith... let's unpack it! Watch the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel! Purchase a copy of The Sports Devotional: Pro Football Edition TODAY! Visit the Fantasy Football Fellowship website to sign up and participate in our exciting, encouraging ministry. Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to discover how you can share the gospel through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, we unpack the inspiring story of Philip Rivers…and how we, too, can overcome fear and go for it! Watch the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel! Purchase a copy of The Sports Devotional: Pro Football Edition TODAY! Visit the Fantasy Football Fellowship website to sign up and participate in our exciting, encouraging ministry. Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to discover how you can share the gospel through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In recent years, NFL fans have gotten used to seeing the Chiefs, Eagles, Bills, and Raven in the playoffs and have taken them seriously as teams capable of a Super Bowl run. This season there are new teams entering the playoff conversation like the Patriots, Broncos, Seahawks, and even Panthers! The question remaining for these new playoff likely teams is “Do we take them seriously?”... let's unpack it! Watch the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel! Purchase a copy of The Sports Devotional: Pro Football Edition TODAY! Visit the Fantasy Football Fellowship website to sign up and participate in our exciting and encouraging ministry. Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to discover how you can share the gospel through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, we unpack college football concerns after Lane Kiffin's latest move…and how to deal with the brokenness in our lives. Watch the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel! Purchase a copy of The Sports Devotional: Pro Football Edition TODAY! Visit the Fantasy Football Fellowship website to sign up and participate in our exciting and encouraging ministry. Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to discover how you can share the gospel through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Bryce Johnson interviews the legendary basketball analyst and broadcaster, Clark Kellogg! They talk about which teams in college basketball has caught his eye as we get closer to the March tournament, his broadcasting responsibilities, what God has been teaching him lately, spiritual routines, and so much more! Clark Kellogg, is a CBS college basketball analyst. He’s been with CBS since 1993. He played college basketball at Ohio State and also in the NBA for the Indiana Pacers. He and his wife Rosy have three grown children. Watch the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel! Purchase a copy of The Sports Devotional: Pro Football Edition TODAY! Visit the Fantasy Football Fellowship website to sign up and participate in our exciting and encouraging ministry. Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to discover how you can share the gospel through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.