Best Jay Hertel Podcasts (2026)

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First Steps 16:25

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9d ago16:25

16:25

This episode reflects on the mystery of Jesus’ first steps, set against the violence of King Herod and the slaughter of the Holy Innocents. While Herod clung to power through fear and violence, Jesus’ life unfolded along a very different path—one of humility, sacrifice, and love, ultimately leading to the cross and resurrection. The contrast invite…

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The Gift We Need 17:13

12d ago17:13

17:13

This message reflects on how God has always spoken to His people, first through the prophets and finally, fully, through His Son. The prophets exposed the heart of sin—not just wrongdoing, but our search for life where it cannot be found—and pointed ahead to God’s promise to restore true life. That promise is fulfilled in the birth of Jesus, the Wo…

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Tiny Baby, Mighty Saviour 11:16

13d ago11:16

11:16

This message centers on the great Christmas paradox: a tiny baby who is also a mighty Savior. Born not to the powerful or prominent but to humble parents and first revealed to lowly shepherds, Jesus comes exactly where we would least expect God to appear. Wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid in a manger, He looks ordinary, yet fulfills every promi…

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I Got This 17:53

16d ago17:53

17:53

This message reflects on Joseph and Thomas, two men who faced profound darkness at opposite ends of Jesus’ life. Joseph’s despair at Mary’s pregnancy and Thomas’s doubt after the crucifixion were both shattered by the same gift: the light of God’s Word. In moments when reality seemed broken and hope lost, God revealed that things were not as they a…

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Ep 376: Ellie Salthouse — Resilience, Racing Under Pressure & The T100 Comeback 1:12:22

18d ago1:12:22

1:12:22

In episode 376 of The Physical Performance Show, professional triathlete Ellie Salthouse joins Hugh Darnell and Brad Beer for a deeply honest conversation about resilience, pressure, and longevity in elite endurance sport. Recorded following knee surgery and a strong return to racing, this episode unpacks what it truly takes to rebuild confidence, …

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The Feast That Has No End 8:59

20d ago8:59

8:59

In this message, I reflect on the marriage supper of the Lamb and how the Lord’s Supper prepares us for that final feast. The same Jesus who shepherds and feeds us now will not change on the Last Day—He will still be our Good Shepherd, not a stranger or a sudden judge. In Holy Communion, past, present, and future come together as we remember Christ…

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Set Free, by Christ, for Joy 17:46

23d ago17:46

17:46

In this message, I reflect on John the Baptist in prison and the unseen prisons that bind us today—fear, guilt, sorrow, addiction, and despair. Christmas does not free us through sentiment or celebration, but through Christ Himself, who came to dwell with us in our darkness and set prisoners truly free. John points us to Jesus, the promised One, wh…

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Ep 375: The Science & Soul of Breathwork: Unlocking Performance with The Breath Room 1:23:44

28d ago1:23:44

1:23:44

In episode 375 of The Physical Performance Show, Coach Lino Holler and Exercise Physiologist Alex Butchies—founders of The Breath Room—join hosts Hugh Darnell and Brad Beer to unpack the science, the soul, and the surprising simplicity behind breathwork. Known for blending physiological precision with deep nervous-system awareness, Lino and Alex ex…

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Good Fruit for Good Fruit 17:38

1M ago17:38

17:38

In this message, I reflect on John the Baptist’s call to “bear fruit in keeping with repentance,” reminding us that repentance is more than words—it is a life changed by God’s grace. Sin is not something to manage or excuse, but something Christ came to remove, at the cost of His own life. From the cut-down stump of Israel, God brought forth Jesus,…

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Cleansed Brides 9:53

1M ago9:53

9:53

In this message, I reflect on how Advent is not only about preparing for Christmas, but about preparing for Christ’s coming now through His Word and Sacraments and His coming again on the Last Day. Scripture gives us a joyful picture of that final day, not just as judgment, but as a wedding feast between Christ and His Church. Through Baptism, we a…

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It's Time! 18:18

1M ago18:18

18:18

In this week’s message, we hear Paul’s urgent reminder: you know the time. Not clock time, but the spiritual moment we live in—one where Christ’s return draws nearer each day. The temptation is to hit the snooze button, to drift through life distracted, sleepy, or spiritually drowsy. But Scripture calls us to wake up, to live as people who know wha…

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Ep 374: Expert Edition: The Balanced Runner - Improve your running with Paul Mackinnon 1:08:26

2M ago1:08:26

1:08:26

Running technique coach Paul Mackinnon (The Balanced Runner) unpacks why most runners "force outcomes" (cadence, foot strike, knee drive) instead of changing the inputs that actually reshape movement. Paul explains his top-down approach—starting at the arms and torso to influence what happens below—so athletes can reduce ground contact time, improv…

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Waiting for Eternity 17:23

2M ago17:23

17:23

In this week’s message, we shift from wondering what eternal life will be like to facing what life looks like as we wait for Jesus’ return. Scripture shows us a world marked by turmoil—wars, disasters, false teachers, persecution, and a creation groaning toward its end. These signs have been unfolding since Christ’s ascension and continue today. Bu…

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A Nugget of the Eternal 17:24

2M ago17:24

17:24

In this episode, I explore why Scripture tells us so little about heaven and why our limited minds couldn’t grasp it anyway. Jesus gives us a small glimpse when He tells the Sadducees that life in the resurrection will be entirely new—no longer divided into many families, but united as one family in Christ. We recall Moses at the burning bush, meet…

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Dying as Saints; Living as Saints 16:42

2M ago16:42

16:42

Just as we call loved ones to know they’ve arrived safely, John’s vision in Revelation shows that our loved ones in Christ have reached their true home—safe before the Lamb. They endured the tribulations of life and now rest in the victory Jesus won through His death and resurrection. But John’s vision also reminds us that not everyone is there yet…

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A Body and Blood Fortress 15:44

2M ago15:44

15:44

When Jesus said, “You will become free,” His listeners protested, claiming they had never been enslaved. But Jesus revealed a deeper truth — all are bound by sin. Every outburst, grudge, and selfish act exposes our captivity to our sinful nature. However hard we try, our efforts to overcome it fail, like a game of Whack-a-Mole where sin always reap…

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Ep 373: Expert Edition: Dr Jay Hertel. Chronic Ankle Instability in Athletes 59:02

2M ago59:02

59:02

In episode 373 of The Physical Performance Show, sports medicine expert Dr Jay Hertel shares an in-depth exploration of chronic ankle instability in athletes. Drawing on his extensive clinical and research experience, Dr Hertel discusses the prevalence, consequences, and complex rehabilitation of ankle sprains. The conversation covers the patho-mec…

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The God Who Wrestles For You 16:16

3M ago16:16

16:16

“Trust but verify.” President Reagan made the phrase famous, but Jacob lived it long before him—trusting God, yet still hedging his bets. As Jacob prepared to meet his brother Esau, fear led him to rely on his own strength instead of God’s promises. That night, God met him in a wrestling match—not to destroy him, but to teach him to trust completel…

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Ep 372: Hayden Wilde Live 1:56:39

3M ago1:56:39

1:56:39

In episode 372 of the Physical Performance Show, Brad Beer and Huw Darnell host a live event featuring dual Olympic triathlon medallist Hayden Wilde. Hayden shares his athletic journey, from his early days in multi-sport and the influence of family and personal adversity, through his path to Olympic success. He details the highs and lows of elite s…

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Rejoice, O Pilgrim Throng! 19:01

3M ago19:01

19:01

Life often leads us down paths we never planned—ventures whose endings we cannot see. That’s true for churches, for families, and for each of us. Yet through every change, setback, or unknown, God’s hand still leads and His love still supports. From Naomi’s famine and exile, to the lepers healed by Jesus, to Paul’s imprisonment for the Gospel, God …

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Forgiveness for Me AND for Thee 19:26

3M ago19:26

19:26

Today, we’re looking at the prophet Habakkuk—a man who saw a world filled with violence, injustice, and corruption, much like our own. Habakkuk cried out to God, asking why He seemed silent. God answered—but not as expected. He would use the ruthless Babylonians to discipline His people, proving that even through chaos, His purposes stand. The less…

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No Ifs, Ands, or Buts 19:04

3M ago19:04

19:04

This week, I’m reflecting on the “war in heaven” — that mysterious battle between Michael and his angels and the dragon and his own. We may not understand how angels fight, but we know the outcome: the good prevailed. Yet the defeated enemy now rages on earth, turning his attacks toward us, using not swords but words — sowing doubt, twisting truth,…

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Ep 371: Expert Edition: Charlie Clements Physiotherapist (FCP) 'Athletic Sciatica: navigating your symptoms' 59:16

3M ago59:16

59:16

In episode 371 of the Physical Performance Show, Charlie Clements, a first contact physiotherapist and specialist in musculoskeletal care based in the UK shares his expertise on the topic of sciatica, particularly as it affects athletes, discussing the prevalence, causes, and different types of leg pain associated with the condition. Charlie explai…

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A God of Mercy 14:34

4M ago14:34

14:34

When Jesus said, “Go and learn what this means: I desire mercy, not sacrifice,” it wasn’t a rebuke just for the Pharisees—it’s a call for us, too. God doesn’t delight in rituals for their own sake, but in mercy that mirrors His own heart. Jesus came to bring that mercy to sinners, to touch the broken and bear their sin—even when it killed Him. On t…

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Two Funerals, One Saviour 14:10

4M ago14:10

14:10

The world measures funerals by size and fame, but Jesus does not. Whether in a stadium or a small chapel, He sees the same need—sinners in need of forgiveness and life. That is what He gave Reinhardt in Baptism, in His Word, and in His Supper: the promise that though he died, he is not dead but alive in Christ. Like the paralyzed man Jesus healed, …

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Every Day a Holy Cross Day 19:45

4M ago19:45

19:45

This week’s tragedies remind us how deeply sin has scarred our world and our own hearts. Violence, hatred, and death are not exceptions but the fruit of our fallen humanity. That is why we need the holy cross. At the cross, Jesus took all sin, guilt, and hatred upon Himself, died in our place, and rose victorious to give us life. There, what looked…

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Keep the End in Mind to Live Now Wisely 18:58

4M ago18:58

18:58

Today, I reflected on Jesus’ hard words about hating family, bearing the cross, and renouncing all we have. At first, they sound impossible—almost like disqualifications for discipleship. But Jesus isn’t telling us how to earn salvation; He’s warning us not to let anything stand in the way of following Him. Like those in His parable who made excuse…

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Ep 370: Expert Edition: Dr Jen Hamer: Body Image & Fuelling: The Cultural Shift Needed 51:19

4M ago51:19

51:19

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A Feast of Joy and Happiness 17:14

4M ago17:14

17:14

Today, I reflected on how Jesus turns the tables on what it means to be honored. At the Pharisee’s banquet, people fought for the best seats, but Jesus chose the place of the outcast and welcomed a man with dropsy, healing him and giving him dignity. That is what He does for us, too. Our sin disfigures us, but Jesus opens the door, forgives us, and…

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Ep 369: Victor Popov: Expert Edition: Lessons from 40 Years in Elite Sport 59:24

4M ago59:24

59:24

In episode 369 of The Physical Performance Show, sports physiotherapist Victor Popov shares insights from his four-decade career working with elite athletes across Olympic Games, Tour de France cycling, AFL premiership teams, and international swimming. He recounts his journey from early days in Sydney's top sports medicine clinics to supporting ch…

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Nathanaeling Bartholomews 20:03

5M ago20:03

20:03

Today, I reflected on the disciples’ argument about who was the greatest, even after Jesus had given them His Supper. Jesus reminded them—and us—that greatness in His kingdom is not about status, but service. That truth comes alive in the story of St. Bartholomew, also known as Nathanael, whose very name means “gift of God.” Though not among the mo…

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Ep 368: Expert Edition: Huw Darnell: Strength and Conditioning Principles 55:35

5M ago55:35

55:35

In episode 368 of The Physical Performance Show, the podcast enters a new era as accredited exercise physiologist Huw Darnell joins as co-host alongside Brad Beer. With over a decade of experience in the endurance sports industry, Huw brings a fresh perspective to the show, sharing his journey from a sport-obsessed youth through injury setbacks to …

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Fighting Fire with Fire 18:49

5M ago18:49

18:49

Today, I reflected on Jesus’ hard words about casting fire on the earth. At first, they can sound harsh—even off-putting—but they reveal the truth about a world already burning with sin and brokenness. Jesus doesn’t come to ignore the flames but to fight fire with fire, taking the blaze of God’s wrath upon Himself at the cross so that we are saved.…

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Not What You Have, But Whose You Are 16:39

5M ago16:39

16:39

Building on the Parable of the Rich Fool, Jesus teaches that life is more than possessions and that anxiety over material needs is unnecessary for those who know God as Father. Just as He feeds the ravens and clothes the lilies, He will surely care for His children—so much so that He gave His only Son for them. Our work, then, is not merely for per…

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Which Inheritance Do You Want? 16:08

5M ago16:08

16:08

In this episode, we reflect on a powerful moment when a man asks Jesus to divide an inheritance, revealing how easily worldly desires can overshadow eternal truths. The message warns against covetousness and idolatry—when we chase things that ultimately leave us spiritually empty, like drinking salt water that only increases thirst. Jesus invites u…

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Praying as Children 19:01

5M ago19:01

19:01

When the disciples asked Jesus, “Lord, teach us to pray,” they weren’t just asking for words—they were asking to be drawn deeper into relationship with God. Though they knew the traditions of prayer, they longed for what Jesus had: intimacy with the Father. Jesus responds by teaching them the Lord’s Prayer, beginning with the powerful word “Father”…

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The Good Portion 17:26

6M ago17:26

17:26

Today’s message reflects on the story of Mary and Martha, highlighting how Jesus gently redirects Martha—not because of her serving, but because of the division it caused. Mary had chosen the “good portion”: sitting at Jesus’ feet to receive His Word. That same Word speaks life, peace, and forgiveness to us today. Jesus didn’t come to be served, bu…

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Do Not Be Deceived 18:01

6M ago18:01

18:01

In today’s message, I reflected on Jesus sending out the seventy-two—ordinary people, sent with nothing but His Word, and yet they returned full of joy. Why? Because even the demons couldn’t stand against the power of Jesus’ name. That mission wasn’t just about then—it’s about now. Jesus still sends us out into a world full of wolves with the truth…

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Promises Fulfilled 12:53

6M ago12:53

12:53

In this episode, I reflect on the life and faith of Carris, a beloved member of our church who recently joined that great multitude in heaven. Though his earthly life ended, Carris was prepared—clothed in Christ from baptism, praising God with his voice and life until the very end. What comfort and confidence we have knowing that, just as Jesus kep…

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Just Jesus 17:19

6M ago17:19

17:19

In today’s episode, I reflected on Peter and Paul—two unlikely men Jesus called to preach one powerful truth: it’s just Jesus. Not Jesus plus effort, law, or status. Just Jesus—who saves sinners like them, and like us. I talked about how humbling that truth is. We all want to believe we’re special or that we’ve earned something. But before God, we’…

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The Demons You See and the Demons You Don't 16:38

7M ago16:38

16:38

In today’s episode, I talked about the demons we can see—and the ones we can’t. Some show up in wild, obvious ways, like the possessed man in the tombs. But others hide behind comfort, respectability, or quiet resistance to Jesus. I asked myself: where do I push Jesus away in my own life? But the good news is, Jesus doesn’t walk away. He sees it al…