Fully Alive with Jeff Kapusta

If you've ever started a Bible reading plan only to lose momentum, you're not alone! In this episode, I sit down with my good friend, Pastor Dean Herman of Five Point Church, to talk about how to engage with Scripture in a way that truly transforms your life. We dive into Dean’s journey from aspiring NFL player to passionate Bible teacher, the importance of reading the Bible with cultural context,...

Have you ever heard of choosing a "word of the year"? For a long time, I didn’t get it. As a pastor, I’m always searching for a word for Sunday—how was I supposed to pick one for an entire year? But over time, I realized the power of branding my year with a single word. In this episode, I share how I landed on my last three words— perhaps , multiply , and capacity —and how each shaped my journey....

In this episode, I’m taking you back to 2009—the year I ran my first and last marathon. That 26.2-mile journey taught me more than just how to keep moving when your legs say stop. I’m sharing 10 key life lessons I learned pounding pavement, from why misery loves company to how optimistic ignorance can be your superpower. Whether you're an actual runner or just trying to make it through the maratho...

Parenting is a journey of loving, leading, and ultimately letting go. In this episode, I share some personal reflections as my kids enter major life transitions—one getting married, another moving overseas, and one starting a business. We dive into what the Bible says about raising children, the reality that they are only on loan to us, and the challenge of releasing them into their God-given purp...

Every man needs a brotherhood—guys who have his back, challenge him, and push him to be better. In this episode, I dive into why men were never meant to do life alone. I explore the surprising impact wolves had on Yellowstone National Park and how that relates to men today. Just like wolves thrive in packs, men need strong connections to other men to grow, lead, and protect. I also break down bibl...

I’ll never forget my first CrossFit class—the moment I got pinned at the bottom of a squat and had to be rescued by a girl named Jade. But that embarrassing start led me down a life-changing fitness journey. In this episode, I’m sharing my personal story of trial and error in fitness—failed gym memberships, grueling marathon training, and even jumping around with Shaun T’s Insanity—until I finally...

In this episode, I explore the concept of "developing your default" and how daily habits shape our responses to life's challenges. Drawing from the story of Daniel in the lion's den, I highlight how Daniel's faith and prayer routine prepared him to face adversity with unwavering resolve. I challenge listeners to evaluate their own defaults—how they react in traffic, to disappointment, or in moment...

In this inspiring episode, I speak directly to young leaders and those shaping the next generation. Drawing from the story of Samuel and Eli in the Bible, I emphasize the importance of creating space for young voices to lead and hear from God. Reflecting on the success of our church’s apprentice program, I share three pivotal lessons for young leaders: the unmatched value of experience, the power...

In this heartfelt episode, I dive into the complexities of relationships and explore what to do when you can't live at peace with everyone. Drawing from Scripture, particularly Hebrews 12:14 and the story of Paul and Barnabas in Acts, I discuss lessons about handling disagreements, when to hold on to relationships, and when to let go. I share insights on maintaining unity despite conflict, the imp...

In this episode, I explore key leadership principles through an unexpected lens: a flight on Spirit Airlines. I share six impactful lessons inspired by this experience, emphasizing how they relate to leadership in our lives, businesses, and communities. From recognizing the pitfalls of overpromising to the value of a thoughtful gesture, I reflect on how these lessons shape our ability to lead effe...

In this episode, I dive deep into the question, "Who are you, really?" We explore how our identities are often defined by what we do, the roles we play, and how others perceive us. Drawing from personal stories—like a one-way road mishap, baseball highs and lows, and even the rickety roller coaster of life—I illustrate the challenges of tying our self-worth to external success. We unpack the four...

In this heartfelt episode, I reflect on how overworking without restraint led me to vocal rest and the valuable lessons I learned along the way. Drawing on my experience as a pastor during the challenges of COVID-19 and beyond, I share how saying "yes" to too much left me burned out. With insights from the Bible, including the importance of the Sabbath, I explore how rest is not just a suggestion...

In this episode, I share a powerful leadership lesson inspired by a mango tree and its connection to vision and restraint. Reflecting on a visit to Jubilee Organics in Florida, I explore how intentional pruning can lead to sustainable growth—both for trees and our lives. I share personal stories about financial struggles, health transformations, and building strong family values. Drawing on Prover...

In this episode, I had the honor of sitting down with my amazing wife, Michelle, to talk about the different seasons of parenting we've navigated and the new adventure of empty nesting. We reminisced about our early days as a couple, shared stories of raising three kids under three, and reflected on the challenges and joys of parenting teenagers. Now, as empty nesters, we're rediscovering the beau...

Predictability is underrated. In this episode, I explore how creating a predictable schedule can help you reclaim your time and live fully alive. Sharing insights from my life as a pastor, I reveal the power of routines in managing responsibilities, reducing stress, and prioritizing what matters most. From morning rituals to balancing leadership demands, I share practical tips for setting boundari...

When did life stop being fun? In this engaging episode, I dive into the importance of hobbies as a healthy outlet for enjoying life outside of work. Sharing personal stories, from cold plunges to pickleball championships, I discuss how hobbies can re-energize you, bring people together, and protect you from burnout. If you’re wondering how to rekindle joy in your life, this episode is your permiss...

There’s the life you’re living, and then there’s the life you were created to live. Are they the same? In this debut episode, I explore what it means to wake up to a full life—a life filled with faith, purpose, and joy. Drawing inspiration from John 10:10, I share how Jesus offers a life beyond mediocrity. You’ll hear about my journey from being a reluctant pastor to discovering God’s plan for me,...

When was the last time you heard from God? In this thought-provoking episode, I explore how a faith-filled life leads to a full life. If you’re curious about faith or seeking spiritual growth, this episode is for you. Drawing from personal stories, Bible study practices, and key scriptures, I share actionable insights on how to connect with God consistently. From understanding the differences betw...

Are you running on fumes or living life to the full? In this fitness-focused episode, I dive into how your physical health impacts every aspect of your life. From my personal journey of struggling with weight, crashing on the floor with no energy, to finding a passion for fitness, I share how small, consistent habits can transform your life. I break it down into three essentials: input (what you f...

Welcome to Fully Alive where faith meets practicality to help you live a life that's Fully Alive! Join me, your host Jeff Kapusta, as I draw from my journey as a pastor, husband, father, and fitness enthusiast to explore how to wake up to God's best for your life. With biblical insights, personal stories, and real advice that can actually apply- each episode challenges you to move beyond comfort a...