Beyond the Letter

What happens when your brain doesn’t shut off—but you're still called to lead? In this raw and relatable episode, Adam sits down with Pastor Will to talk about how they each navigate life, ministry, and mental health while living with ADHD. From rapid thoughts and decision fatigue to overcommitting and emotional overload, they get honest about the behind-the-scenes struggle that high-functioning leaders often carry.This convers...

In this inspiring episode of Beyond I Do, hosts Adam and Ashlee Mesa sit down with Lester and Kirsten Baron—longtime friends and cherished members of the Patria community. Together, they dive into the journey of building a life side-by-side in marriage, business, and parenthood. From pursuing separate careers to launching a financial planning practice together, the Barons share the real and raw moments that shaped their path—includ...

How do you know if it’s God’s voice or just your own thoughts? In this deep-dive episode, Adam, Sammy, and Will unpack the tension between being emotionally led vs. Spirit-led, and why so many believers wrestle with discerning God’s voice in their everyday lives. He breaks down the dangers of assuming God always affirms your desires—and how the Holy Spirit often challenges, corrects, and sanctifies us rather than just co-signing ou...

What does it really mean to be led by the Holy Spirit in relationships? In this episode, Adam and Ashlee—joined by pastors and marriage coaches George and Tondra Gregory—dig into what spiritual discernment looks like when you're choosing who to marry, how to navigate conflict, or just trying to figure out if you're on the same page as your spouse. It’s not just about hearing an audible voice from heaven—it’s about walking i...

When the door doesn't open, is God saying "No"... or just "Not yet"? In this faith-stirring episode, we dive into the power of perseverance through the lens of Walt Disney’s relentless dream to build Disneyland—despite 300+ bank rejections. Through that story and Scripture, we explore how God often uses delay to develop character, and how enduring trials can actually prepare us for the purpose He’s promised....

What happens when your spiritual walk is strong—but your spouse's isn't? In this raw and honest episode, Adam and Ashlee dive deep into the emotional and spiritual tension that arises when couples find themselves spiritually unequally yoked, even after marriage. They unpack the biblical responsibility of the believing spouse, offer encouragement from personal experience, and share tools to avoid bitterness, pride, and disco...

In this solo episode, Adam unpacks the rising tension between Catholicism and mainline Christianity, not from a place of debate, but from honest cultural observation. Why does it feel like some Catholic leaders are targeting Protestants more than unbelievers? Is unity still possible with so much division in how we worship and understand authority? From personal DMs to viral TikToks, Adam offers a pastoral perspective on the Catholi...

Can a Christian marriage survive when only one person is willing to fight for it? In this raw and deeply honest episode, Adam and Ashlee tackle one of the toughest realities many couples face: what to do when your spouse checks out. With biblical wisdom from 1 Corinthians 7:12-16 and real-life counseling insights, they explore how faith, patience, and self-work play a role in standing strong when the other person has given up.They ...

What happens when pastors, IV therapy, and artificial intelligence collide? In this hilarious and eye-opening episode, the crew explores how AI—especially ChatGPT—is shaping the way we approach leadership, study Scripture, manage relationships, and even recover from burnout. From naming your chat assistant to feeding it your life story, we discuss how far AI has come and how it’s quietly integrating into ministry, therapy, sermon w...

This episode gets real about the emotional rhythms of marriage—how we process things differently, how we misread each other, and what it means to feel truly seen and appreciated. Adam and Ashlee unpack how emotional awareness, resilience, and regular feedback have strengthened their relationship over time.They talk about why words of affirmation still matter (even 10 years in), how unspoken expectations can wear a couple down, and ...

In this powerful and convicting episode, we dive into the urgent reality of child exploitation and human trafficking — not just overseas, but right in our own communities. Drawing on the example of Jesus and the radical story of a missionary praying for a known drug trafficker, we’re reminded that no one is beyond the reach of redemption.Romans 10:13 declares, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved,” and this epi...

In this heartfelt episode, we explore the beauty and challenges of intimacy in marriage through the lens of Ephesians 5. How do couples stay connected—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—especially after kids, stress, or past trauma? This conversation dives deep into the ways love mirrors Christ’s relationship with the Church, emphasizing the importance of communication, healing, and seeking both divine wisdom and practical su...

In this compelling episode of Beyond the Letter, we unpack the true meaning of biblical manhood, spiritual fatherhood, and mentorship within the body of Christ. Drawing from Jesus’ command to care for widows and orphans, we explore how "orphans" in Scripture often referred to the fatherless—and how that truth challenges today’s believers to step into roles of spiritual parenting.Discover why every man of faith needs three...

In this episode of Beyond I Do, Adam and Ashlee explore how the wrong voices can quietly unravel even the strongest marriages. From TikTok satire that touches on uncomfortable truths to stories from real counseling sessions and their own experiences, they unpack the importance of choosing your inner circle with wisdom.Whether it’s venting to the wrong friend, taking advice from someone who doesn’t know your relationship, or oversha...

In this episode of Beyond the Letter, Adam, Aaron, Haron, and Jermaine sit down to talk about how faith and fitness show up in real life. We get into the discipline it takes to stay consistent—whether that’s in writing a devotional, showing up to the gym, or just trying to follow Jesus day by day.There’s a lot of real talk in this one—about staying motivated, hitting walls, and how our spiritual lives affect the way we care for our...

In this episode of Beyond I Do, we explore the evolving dynamics between baby boomers and millennials within the modern family. Why do so many millennials feel unheard by their boomer parents? And how can families move past the tension to build stronger, more unified relationships?

From differing parenting styles to conflicting values around marriage, work, and child-rearing, generational gaps can strain even the closest families. W...

Join us for a powerful episode of Beyond the Letter featuring worship artist Ryan Ellis!From finding unexpected lessons in golf to discovering the healing power of music, Ryan shares his inspiring journey of faith, resilience, and creativity. Hear about his deep encounters with the Holy Spirit, the impact of personal loss, and how vulnerability fuels his songwriting.👉 Ryan also previews exclusive songs from his upcoming headline t...

Join Anthony and Marie Pinedo on Beyond the Letter as they share their powerful journey from military life to a purpose-driven family built on faith, healing, and service. In this heartfelt episode, the Pinedos open up about overcoming PTSD, navigating financial stress, and transitioning into civilian life—all while raising a Christ-centered family and building authentic community.

This conversation dives deep into what it means to ...

Join us for a powerful and insightful episode of Beyond the Letter as two pastors dive deep into the diverse streams of thought within Christianity. Through personal stories, they unpack the complexities of faith, the role of mentorship, and the ongoing balance between hustle and rest in spiritual leadership. With honest reflection and practical wisdom, they explore how curiosity, humility, and perseverance shape both personal grow...