Episodes

  • From Prison To Purpose with Bryan Burns (Q & A)
    Sep 15 2025

    In this episode I sit down with my guy Bryan Burns—board member, brother, and friend—for a raw Q&A pulled straight from your emails. We get into turning points, imposter syndrome, building “Fresh Out,” and the real heart behind Second Chance Mentors. No fluff—just hope, truth, and what God can do with a messy past.

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    44 mins
  • Using Humor, Vulnerability & Truth to Share Jesus
    Jul 21 2025

    This one’s special. I sat down with Zachariah Rippey—comedian, podcaster, speaker, and most of all, a man whose life radically shifted when he encountered Jesus in a real way. From chasing laughs to chasing purpose, this is a raw conversation about transformation, calling, and stepping out in faith.

    What We Talked About:

    • His journey from stand-up comedy to full-time ministry

    • How COVID shattered his career but sparked his faith

    • The origin and impact of the “I Like Birds” podcast

    • Grief, RV life, and discovering God’s plan

    • His mission in Uganda and launching a powerful new book

    • Humor, vulnerability, and truth as tools for evangelism

    Why It Matters:

    Zach’s story is a reminder that God’s purpose is often found in the unexpected. When doors close, others open—and they often lead us exactly where we’re supposed to be. If you’ve ever felt like your identity was tied to a title or talent, this episode is a must-listen.

    If you’re feeling stuck or wondering what’s next, let this be your nudge: God can use everything for His glory.

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    54 mins
  • The Witness with Robert Borelli
    Jul 14 2025

    This one is wild, y’all.

    I got to sit down with Robert Borelli, a former member of the Gambino crime family, and let me tell you—his story is straight out of a movie. But it’s real. From running the streets of Brooklyn, living the mafia life, to crack addiction and multiple stints in prison… all the way to a radical encounter with Jesus that changed everything.

    What We Talked About:

    • Growing up in a mafia-run neighborhood

    • His slow slide into organized crime

    • The toll addiction took on his life and reputation

    • Getting clean in Rikers and giving his life to Christ

    • Starting over with a new identity—literally and spiritually

    • How he now uses his story to lead others to Jesus

    Why It Matters:

    So many people think they’re too far gone. Robert is proof that no one is. No matter how dark your past, God can still give you a new name, a new heart, and a new mission.

    If you’re stuck in a cycle or feel like there’s no way out, this episode is for you. You’re never too far for a comeback—and God’s not done with you yet.

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    41 mins
  • The 5 Keys to Failure with Jeffery Mercier
    Jul 7 2025

    Check out this conversation with Shawn and Jeffery and see how Jeffery has overcome years of struggles and failures and turned it for good. He now brings coaching and motivation to many others and has created what he considers the 5 keys to failure. Jeffrey believes all are called but few will answer. Listen in!

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    52 mins
  • A Purpose in His Sobriety with Trevor Burger
    Jun 30 2025

    In this episode, Shawn chats with Trevor Burger about his difficult journey to sobriety and the profound purpose he found along the way. Trevor shares how he now helps struggling addicts nationwide by guiding them toward recovery and a relationship with Jesus. Listen in as they discuss the transformative impact of the Hope Is Alive program, which provides men and women with new opportunities for a brighter future.

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    1 hr and 34 mins
  • After 20 Years in Prison with Kendrick Fulton Jr
    Jun 23 2025

    Check out this episode where Shawn and Kendrick discuss what led to prison, the lifestyle and work done behind the walls and the incredible bounce back after getting released. It’s never too late to start over and take advantage of a 2nd chance.

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    1 hr and 7 mins
  • A Huge Announcement with Bryan Burns
    Jun 16 2025

    Check out this episode where Shawn and Bryan discuss recent life updates and make a major announcement about the future of 2nd Chance Mentors. This announcement could change the lives of so many people, check it out!

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    30 mins
  • From Bullied to Bodybuilder with "Chisel" Chase Bergner
    Jun 9 2025

    Join Shawn and Chase as they dive into the journey that led Chase into the world of fitness and ultimately to becoming a professional bodybuilder. Discover how his life took a dramatic turn due to a significant health scare and the miraculous recovery that followed.

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    1 hr and 27 mins