In this eye-opening episode of the Stand Up Dude Podcast, we're joined by relationship coach and Emmy-winning animator Joe Barruso (Saving Grace Counseling) for a brutally honest conversation about success, emptiness, and finding ultimate freedom through Jesus.

Have you ever chased success—a career, achievements, the right relationship—and still felt like something was missing? Have you hit “rock bottom” in your marriage, battled with pride, or wondered if true transformation is even possible? Joe Barruso has lived that story, and today, he’s here to walk you through the raw process that took him from Hollywood highs to personal breakdown… and ultimately to healing, hope, and a new identity as a man rooted in Christ.

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What You’ll Discover in This Episode:

• Joe Barruso’s journey from Emmy-winning animator (Where On Earth Is Carmen Sandiego?, Disney’s Mighty Ducks) to marriage counselor with a radical testimony of brokenness, pride, and renewal
• The moment Joe faced the end of his marriage AND the end of his self-sufficiency—learning why worldly success can’t fill the spiritual void • Why “pride as protector” is sabotaging men’s lives, marriages, and walk with God—and how humility is the only path to true change
• The difference between worldly love (transactional, self-serving) and God’s love (giving without expectation)—and how embracing God’s design restores relationships
• Practical wisdom for men who feel stuck, numb, ashamed, or afraid: how to take the first courageous step toward healing, confession, and repentance • Real talk on looking inward, accepting responsibility, and why loving your wife is the truest evidence of loving God
• The gospel’s power to heal wounds, break cycles of shame, and give you new purpose—even if you’ve failed or lost everything
• Why marriage is a spiritual calling—and how laying down your pride is the key to lasting joy and connection
• Actionable steps for husbands, fathers, and single men longing for more in life, faith, and relationships
• A clear invitation to begin (or restart) your relationship with Jesus—plus resources to fuel your growth

This is NOT just another marriage advice episode. It’s a raw, redemptive testimony and a call for men who are tired of pretending, tired of the emptiness, and ready to discover the freedom, courage, and purpose they were made for.

Are you ready to step out of the shadows and into real transformation? Your breakthrough starts now.
EPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES:

• Start your relationship with Jesus: https://standupdude.com/standup
• Get FREE resources to spark your spiritual growth: https://standupdude.com/be-more
• Connect with Joe Barruso & Saving Grace Counseling: https://savinggracecounseling.com/
• Marriage in crisis? Explore Marriage Intensives at Saving Grace Counseling

Take Action:
Has Joe’s story stirred something in you? Drop your thoughts in the comments! Like, subscribe, and share this episode with a man (or couple) who needs real hope and healing. Need prayer or resources? Email: dudes@standupdude.com
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Thank you for being part of Stand Up Dude—a podcast calling men to rise up, reject lies, find real joy, and lead with uncompromising faith in a world that desperately needs it. You are not alone, you are not beyond hope, and now is your time to take your stand.
The Kingdom needs men who LIVE FREE. It starts today.
Stay bold. Stay dangerous—for the glory of God.
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