One on One with Mista Yu

Determination and curiosity can transform a life. Just ask Barbara Mojica, who grew up in a modest New York City apartment to become the first college graduate in her family, an accomplished educator, historian, and author of children's books that inspire critical thinking through historical exploration. Throughout our conversation, Barbara transports us to the breathtaking Hudson Valley wher...

Debra McNinch shares her journey from a small-town Kansas upbringing to founding Battle Cry Moms, a prayer movement supporting mothers of prodigal children that now includes over 1,200 participants worldwide. • Growing up in a single-parent household in the 1970s and experiencing poverty shaped Deborah's perspective on family and faith • The absence of a father figure created challenges in un...

Nick shares his journey from military kid to service member to faith-based coach, revealing how global experiences shaped his view that people matter above all else. • Growing up as a military dependent, moving internationally and gaining appreciation for diverse cultures • Formative childhood experience in Peru witnessing extreme poverty that taught him to count his blessings • Military service t...

Parenting teenagers can feel like navigating an emotional minefield where traditional discipline suddenly stops working. What happens when the close connection you once had with your child seems to vanish behind slammed doors and eye rolls? This episode tackles uncomfortable truths rarely discussed, like those moments when you simply don't like your child. This perspective shift alone can tra...

What happens when your life falls apart and you find yourself alone in a new state with no support system? For Ana, this breaking point became the foundation for an extraordinary journey back to faith and purpose. A journey through a  "legalistic" Christian household, feeling controlled by family expectations, an abusive marriage, and a strong addiction to pornography are just some of An...

What happens when men are defined only by their ability to provide? Relationship and Personal Development Coach Brent Dowlen unpacks this fundamental question in a conversation that challenges the core assumptions about masculine identity. The heart of our discussion centers on what Brent calls "the biggest lie told about men"—that their value exists solely in their capacity to provide....

What happens when we strip away the façade of perfection and embrace authentic faith? Heather Day, Author and Director of Marketing for the Barnabas Foundation, joins us for a refreshingly honest conversation about finding purpose, peace, and financial freedom through surrender. Growing up as a pastor's kid who always knew Jesus' love, Heather shares how her early financial struggles wit...

We unlock the journey from bankruptcy to sustainable success with business coach Richard Walsh, who shares raw insights about losing everything and rebuilding with purpose. • Coming from a background of constant movement, Richard moved 30 times before finishing high school • Joined the Marines at 17, then built a successful custom water features business over 20 years • Lost everything in 2008 wit...

Roy Caughlin's journey from Ireland to Poland began with a relationship and property investments, but evolved into a life-changing adventure spanning 18 years. When Roy found property in Poland was remarkably affordable compared to his native Ireland, he seized the opportunity – a decision that would test his resilience but ultimately lead to extraordinary personal growth. At nine years old,...

Betsy Pepine, real estate mogul and author of "Breaking Boxes," shares her journey of personal transformation and how she helps others break free from self-imposed limitations and societal expectations. What happens when we confront the invisible boxes that confine us? Betsy Pepin, successful real estate mogul, bestselling author, and serial entrepreneur, knows this terrain intimately. A...

Dr. Rosemary Downer shares her journey from Jamaica to Canada to Maryland, coining herself a "Jack American" who discovered that hard work, seizing opportunities, and authentic relationships are universal principles that transcend location. Her experience working with homeless families revealed that poverty is primarily a mindset rather than simply a lack of resources. • Founder of BRYDG...

Ever wonder how a rock musician becomes a beacon of faith through music? Meet Howard Gripp, a talented musician and IT director, whose journey from traditional rock to Christian rock is as inspiring as it is transformative. Howard shares how a divine calling reshaped his career and life, urging him to use his musical talents for a higher purpose. Despite initial doubts and hesitations, he embraced...

What if pursuing your creative passions could completely transform your life? Join us as we explore the life-changing journey of Patrick Boylan, a multi-talented musician, app developer, and actor who found his calling in California's vibrant artistic landscape. From the bustling streets of Los Angeles to the creative turning point sparked by a friend's advice, Patrick's story is a...

Journey with us as we explore the fascinating life of Alana Bonneman, a celebrated nutritionist whose path took her from the sunlit shores of Australia to the bustling cities of Germany. Alana opens up about her holistic philosophy, grounded in naturopathy, herbal medicine, and nutrition, to tackle the modern health challenges that many face today. She shares her expertise on issues like hormonal...

Andrew McCarter, an emerging talent in the Christian hip-hop scene, joins us to share his journey of resilience and faith. We uncover how influential male role models shaped his character and provided the guidance he needed to navigate life’s complexities. This episode invites listeners to become part of our community by sharing their own experiences and questions, fostering a sense of shared grow...

This episode is special, featuring not just Matt and Nicole, but also a surprise guest appearance by the Queen herself! Prepare to be inspired by their journey of growth, adaptation, and deep love, as they share candid insights on how they've navigated changes in their relationship and individual passions. Matt and Nicole reveal their experiences of moving across states for familial support a...

Journey alongside Kat as she shares her rich cultural heritage and the profound influence of her grandparents in Puerto Rico. Moving to Florida and later serving in the military, Kat recounts her cultural adjustments, the passion for gardening passed down from her grandparents, and the lasting impact of her grandfather's agricultural wisdom. We delve into personal stories of balancing life as...

Imagine finding your life's passion at a high school concert – that's exactly what happened to our guest, Treg Monty. This week, Treg shares the heartwarming story of how attending a concert with his mother ignited his love for the flute, forever shaping his musical journey.  The episode takes an unexpected turn as we explore the life of an enthusiastic actor who began his career at the...

Ever wondered how a computer engineering student from Augusta, Georgia, ends up founding a successful government contracting firm and running for mayor? Join us as we chat with Dr. Curtis Merriweather Jr., a man who epitomizes versatility and ambition. From addressing critical issues like affordable housing and food insecurity to managing the complexities of a mayoral campaign, Dr. Merriweather&ap...

Imagine being born in a place where hope seems scarce and challenges are a daily reality. In this episode, we invite Jean Rebecca to share his gripping life story, beginning with his miraculous birth in Haiti. Hear about his mother’s relentless determination to provide for him amidst poverty and threats, and his emotional journey moving to the United States to live with his father. Jean's hea...

What happens when you blend the worlds of church planting, sports, and personal growth? Join us on They Call Me Mista Yu for a captivating conversation with our long-time friend, Gabriel Johnson. Remember those initial reservations and biases that sometimes cloud first impressions? Gabriel and I laugh about our first meeting at a church plant and reminisce about the incredible 11-12 years of frien...