In this deeply personal and uplifting episode, the hosts welcome special guest Joey Miranda — mental health clinician, Reading native, community leader, and president of the Pagoda Foundation. The conversation begins lightly with Joey’s background, his nickname story, and his “theme song at the pearly gates,” then opens into a meaningful exploration of childhood, cultural expectations, broken homes, education, and identity.
Joey shares his journey growing up in Reading, the challenge of being labeled “the man of the house,” and how those pressures shape kids emotionally. He talks openly about academic struggles, working through adversity, and eventually discovering his passion for helping others through mental health work. The episode takes an intimate turn as Joey recounts his lowest point after divorce, the night he walked into a Catholic church seeking hope, and how God used that moment to bring him back home—both spiritually and literally.
The hosts dive into faith, Catholic upbringing versus relational Christianity, the power of Scripture becoming alive, and favorite biblical figures that shape their spiritual perspectives. From symbolism in Scripture to the beauty of breaking bread, the conversation blends theology, culture, humor, and raw vulnerability.
The second half focuses on Joey’s work with the Pagoda Foundation, his love for the city of Reading, and why he chooses to serve his community instead of leaving it. He shares his vision for the future of the Pagoda — educational experiences, fine dining opportunities, cultural engagement, and restoring pride in a city filled with potential.
The episode closes with a heartfelt discussion about mental health, breaking the stigma for men, the importance of simply talking to someone, and Joey’s beautiful answer to the question, “How do I get into heaven?” — a call to love people well, listen deeply, and be present.
Authentic, emotional, funny, and inspiring, this episode reminds listeners that faith and healing grow through community, vulnerability, and showing up for one another.