From Rock Bottom to Revival: Joe McKee’s Journey to Legacy (Part 1)

A Quarter in the Couch

In this powerful first part of a two-part conversation, host Jeremy Lindsey sits down with his best friend, Joe McKee—a man whose story is one of grit, grace, and transformation. From military service and personal loss to four DUIs, violent charges, and the brink of a 30-year prison sentence, Joe’s journey seemed destined for destruction. But a last-chance offer from a judge and an unexpected encounter at Teen Challenge would change everything.
Through raw, unfiltered storytelling, Joe and Jeremy unpack not just the lowest points, but the moments of divine intervention that brought Joe from solitary confinement to street ministry, from anger to purpose. It’s a testament to second chances, faith, and finding your true calling—often in places you’d least expect.
In this episode:
•How Jeremy and Joe first met through ministry at Church on the Hill
•Joe’s life after the military—anger, addiction, and years working as a bouncer
•The arrest that nearly put him away for decades
•A pivotal court moment that led to Teen Challenge instead of prison
•Lessons from the streets of San Bernardino and the challenges of church leadership
•The influence of unlikely mentors, including a cellmate serving seven life sentences
Takeaway:
Your past doesn’t disqualify you from your purpose—sometimes it prepares you for it.
Subscribe to A Quarter in the Couch wherever you listen to podcasts so you don’t miss Part 2.

Subscribe to A Quarter in the Couch wherever you listen to podcasts.

Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters:
https://missionmatters.com/author/jeremy-lindsey