Podcast Summary: "How Prison CHANGED My Brother In Law" — The Bobby Bones Show

Introduction

In the January 13, 2025 episode of The Bobby Bones Show hosted by Premiere Networks, Granger Smith engages in a deeply personal and transformative conversation with his wife, Amber, and his brother-in-law, Colin. This episode delves into Colin's harrowing journey through addiction, incarceration, and his eventual redemption through faith and familial support. The discussion offers listeners an intimate glimpse into the struggles and triumphs associated with overcoming personal demons and rebuilding one's life.

1. Welcoming the Guests

The episode opens with Granger introducing his guests—his wife Amber and brother-in-law Colin. Granger shares his excitement about having Colin on the show, highlighting Colin's unique life experiences that bring valuable perspectives to their discussions.

Granger Smith [00:29]: "Everyone brings to the table something... But because it's all relative, we can come at questions with a little bit different perspective."

2. Early Days and Struggles

Granger reminisces about the early days when he first met Colin, acknowledging Colin's larger-than-life personality and the initial challenges it presented.

Granger Smith [03:01]: "Everyone likes you. You're always fun to be around. You're always the life of the party... but that's also part of your problem."

Colin candidly shares his past, detailing years of addiction and the ripple effects it had on his relationships and responsibilities.

Colin [05:23]: "There's only one way out of where I was, and that's, you know, through God."

3. The Turning Point: Hitting Rock Bottom

A pivotal moment in Colin's life is recounted when he locked his keys in his truck, symbolizing his surrender and the beginning of his transformation.

Colin [06:34]: "I locked my keys in my truck and I gave up. I got back in the hotel, it was so cold... I begged God, I said, get me out of this."

This act of desperation led to him reaching out to his wife, Shayna, which was instrumental in his decision to seek help.

Colin [07:43]: "We went to a meeting and started getting things together for the court date... I was scared, but I was at peace because maybe this is God telling me to sit down for a little bit."

4. Legal Troubles and Imprisonment

Colin details the charges that led to his incarceration, emphasizing the severity of his actions and the consequences he faced.

Colin [08:44]: "Forgery of a financial instrument was one of the charges. Credit hot checks... I had been caught in 2018 for the same charge."

He recounts his sentencing to five years in prison and the emotional impact it had on his family, particularly Shayna.

Colin [26:29]: "They gave me a five-year sentence... since I had priors, that's why I got the sentence I got."

5. Embracing Faith Behind Bars

While imprisoned, Colin's faith becomes a cornerstone of his recovery. He shares how his relationship with God deepened, aided by the support of his wife and the introduction to biblical teachings.

Colin [28:57]: "Since that day, I've asked Him every day, 'Get me out of the way, show me how to be of service, and show me Your will.'"

Granger connects this spiritual journey to biblical narratives, drawing parallels with the story of Jonah.

Granger Smith [14:14]: "That's like the worst storm I've ever seen... Your story sounds like it."

6. Life Transformation and Rebuilding

Colin reflects on the profound changes in his mindset and behavior, attributing his transformation to divine intervention and the unwavering support of his family.

Colin [16:43]: "We've been talking about trying to find a local church... I just felt the love immediately."

He emphasizes the importance of community and spiritual guidance in sustaining long-term recovery.

Colin [27:56]: "The minute that it all turned and my story really began was January 2, 2022, when I actually got on my knees and was done."

7. Offering Guidance: Responding to Listeners

Towards the end of the episode, Granger reads a listener's question about dealing with a partner's relapse into substance abuse. Colin provides heartfelt advice grounded in his experiences and faith.

Colin [40:15]: "You cannot change somebody else. Only God can do that and he's got to seek that if he really wants that change."

Amber adds further insights, emphasizing the power of prayer and mutual support.

Amber [46:02]: "You just have to pray to the Lord for him to change... live your life according to the Bible."

8. Conclusion and Future Reflections

As the episode wraps up, Granger expresses his gratitude towards Colin for sharing his story and hints at future episodes where listeners can continue to engage with Colin's ongoing journey.

Granger Smith [49:02]: "See you next Monday. Thanks for joining me on the Granger Smith podcast."

Key Takeaways

• The Power of Surrender: Colin's decision to admit defeat and seek help was pivotal in his journey towards recovery.

• Faith as a Foundation: Embracing faith provided Colin with the strength and guidance necessary to overcome his struggles.

• Community Support: The unwavering support from family and the church community played a crucial role in Colin's transformation.

• Honesty and Accountability: Open communication and mutual accountability are essential in maintaining sobriety and rebuilding relationships.

• Hope and Redemption: Colin's story is a testament to the possibility of redemption and the transformative power of faith and love.

Notable Quotes

• Colin [05:23]: "There's only one way out of where I was, and that's, you know, through God."

• Colin [06:34]: "I locked my keys in my truck and I gave up. I got back in the hotel, it was so cold... I begged God."

• Colin [28:57]: "Since that day, I've asked Him every day, 'Get me out of the way, show me how to be of service, and show me Your will.'"

• Amber [46:02]: "Live your life according to the Bible. You love him, you serve him, you pray for him."

Final Thoughts

This episode of The Bobby Bones Show offers a raw and honest portrayal of one man's battle with addiction and his path to redemption. Through Colin's story, listeners are reminded of the resilience of the human spirit and the profound impact of faith and familial support in overcoming life's greatest challenges. Granger Smith's compassionate hosting ensures that the narrative remains both engaging and inspiring, making it a must-listen for anyone grappling with similar struggles or seeking hope in the face of adversity.