Holy Smokes and Dad Jokes

About Holy Smokes and Dad Jokes

“Welcome to Holy Smokes and Dad Jokes! I’m Jonathan Pate — pastor, hope dealer, and part-time professional dad joke distributor. This podcast is all about faith in the real world — the messy, beautiful, sometimes chaotic world we actually live in. We’ll talk about hope when life feels heavy, truth when culture feels loud, and yes… I will absolutely drop a dad joke when you least expect it. If you’re looking for encouragement, honesty, and a reason to smile, you’re in the right place."

Publisher

Jonathan Pate

Category

comedy · religion & spirituality

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

17 Feb 2026

Latest episode

24 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

19 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   24 Sept 2026

   A Joyful Zeal: Jeremy Tuiolosega

   Join me as I sit down with Jeremy Tuiolosega, the Pastor of Eastaboga Baptist Church. Jeremy is full of zeal and joy for God and God's people. We discuss family, coming to faith, receiving the call to ministry, biblical literacy, and evangelism. Jeremy brings some decent dad jokes to the show, and the host offers up some pretty awful jokes of his own. Enjoy and be blessed!

2. 

   7 Aug 2026

   Connecting People, Changing Lives: Don Maddox

   Join me as I sit down with Don Maddox, a long time friend and mentor. After many years as a Lead Pastor, Don has served over 30 years as an Associate Pastor at Harvest Church in Anniston, AL. He has a passion for connecting people and living a life with intention. Don also brings a high level joke game to the show!

3. 

   9 Jul 2026

   A Lifetime of Preaching the Gospel-Jerry Irwin

   The conversation covers a range of topics including funny church stories, humorous funeral incidents, family and ministry, the speaker's ministry journey, television ministry, and the secret to longevity in ministry. The main takeaways include the importance of longevity in ministry and the power of the Word of God. The conversation delves into the power of the preached word and the importance of studying and reading the word of God. It emphasizes the impact of expository preaching and the transformative nature of the word of God. The discussion also highlights the decline of evangelical churches and the need for a revival of biblical preaching. Takeaways Longevity in ministry The power of the Word of God The power of the preached word The importance of studying and reading the word of God Chapters 00:00 Longevity in Ministry 22:24 The Power of the Preached Word 25:15 The Importance of Studying and Reading the Word of God

4. 

   23 Jun 2026

   Can Christians Disagree and Stay Friends?/Bryan Dunaway

   The conversation begins with lighthearted banter and dad jokes, leading into a discussion about growing up in a Christian home and the challenges of being a preacher's son. The conversation then shifts to personal struggles, growth, and the impact of denominational differences on unity within the Christian community. The conversation covers topics such as old friendships, laughter, passion for evangelism, political views, golf, and future aspirations. It delves into memories, humor, and deep-seated beliefs, providing a glimpse into the lives and perspectives of the speakers. Takeaways The importance of humor and lightheartedness in conversation The impact of denominational differences on unity within the Christian community Deep-seated beliefs shape perspectives Laughter and memories strengthen friendships Chapters 00:00 Starting with Dad Jokes 06:33 Challenges of Growing Up in a Preacher's Home 15:48 Denominational Differences and Unity 21:48 Old Friends and Memories 29:28 Political Views and Controversy 36:35 Golf and Memories

5. 

   26 May 2026

   Missionary, Author, Storyteller: Meet Al Argo

   The conversation covers various topics including daily life in Asia, family life, missionary work, rewards and challenges of missionary work, the role as a pastor and evangelist, writing and publishing books, and an upcoming book launch and Kickstarter campaign. The discussion also delves into future plans and concludes with a heartfelt exchange of gratitude. Takeaways Missionary work and its challenges Writing and publishing books Upcoming book launch and Kickstarter campaign Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Daily Life in Asia 07:00 Family and Empty Nesting 15:04 Role as a Pastor and Evangelist 27:39 Future Plans and Conclusion

6. 

   19 May 2026

   The Power of Positivity-Amy Angel

   Join me as I sit down with Amy Angel of the Amy Angel Team with KW Realty Group in Jacksonville, AL. Amy is an influencer in her community, and a great business mind. The show begins with a decent dad joke from Amy, and from there the discussion touches on family, psychology, and the power of positivity. As always the host brings some horrible dad jokes to the show, and the episode concludes with a conversation about being remembered for impacting the people around us. Amy also has her own podcast called “Real Estate Story Time with Amy Angel”, and we highly encourage everyone to check it out! Takeaways Maintaining a positive attitude in the face of challenges The impact of age on personal growth and mindset Personal improvement and delegation The impact of forgiveness and relationships The joy of laughter and its impact Challenges and rewards of podcasting Chapters 00:00 Podcasting Mishaps and Second Chances 06:17 Family Dynamics and Relationships 13:18 Success in Business and Maintaining a Positive Attitude 21:51 Church Events and Memories 28:21 The Joy of Laughter and Its Impact 36:24 Challenges and Rewards of Podcasting

7. 

   12 May 2026

   More than Forty Years of Ministry and Still Joyful-Bill Snow

   Pastor Bill Snow has faithfully served in the same church for over 40 years. He is an example of patience, perseverance and stability. Our conversation begins with what just might be the best joke brought to the show so far, and continues with an inspirational discussion around family, faith and serving God's people. Bill has faced his share of challenges including some major health concerns, but the grace of God and the power of His calling has carried this pastor through it all. Bill also has quite the arsenal of dad jokes which are always welcome to this podcast! Takeaways Family and faith Journey to becoming a pastor Dealing with conflict in the church The joy of seeing people grow Chapters 00:00 Most Enjoyable and Difficult Aspects of Pastoring 23:37 Changes in Ministry Over Time 29:09 The Pleasure of Traveling and Creating Memories

8. 

   4 May 2026

   The Heart of a Pastor-Matt Martin

   Matt Martin never saw pastoral ministry in his future, but God sure did. His heart for people and the church is evident to see for anyone that has the pleasure of knowing him and his wonderful family. Our conversation obviously includes humor as we reflect on Earnest Goes to Camp, and a few dad jokes to boot. We also spend some time talking about the weight of pastoral ministry and the challenges that come from being a bi-vocational pastor. Takeaways Dad-oriented humor Early spiritual experiences Weight of the pastoral calling Challenges of bivocational pastors Chapters 00:00 Dad Jokes and Humor 07:03 Early Spiritual Experiences 19:48 The Weight of the Pastoral Calling

9. 

   27 Apr 2026

   Politics from the Pulpit?

   Should a pastor promote politicians from the pulpit? Join Pastor Jonathan Pate as he tackles this difficult topic from a Biblical perspective, as well as some good jokes from a past president! Takeaways Pulpit and Politics Biblical Perspective Presidential Jokes

10. 

    21 Apr 2026

    Young Man on a Mission-Tanner Brady

    In this episode we hear from Tanner Brady, an inspiring young man who is passionate for the Lord and the mission that God has called him to. Tanner leads us from his conversion as a teen to his future aspirations of reaching people who have never heard the Gospel. Tanner also brings some dad jokes for us, and let's just say they are pretty much what you would expect from a 23 year old rookie, LOL. Get ready to smile while being motivated and encouraged to step out of your comfort zone. Takeaways Missionary work and faith journey The impact of missions on personal growth Passion for the Lord Laughter and Joy

11. 

    13 Apr 2026

    God, Golf and Public Service-Chip Howell

    In this episode, we sit down with Chip Howell—a man whose life reflects faith, perseverance, and servant leadership. A devoted Christian, Chip has built his life on strong values that guide both his personal journey and his public service. From walking on to play golf at the University of Alabama to becoming a last-minute candidate who rose to serve as Mayor of Anniston, Alabama, Chip’s story is one of humility, determination, and stepping up when it matters most. Known throughout the community for his integrity and steady leadership, he has earned a reputation as someone who leads with both conviction and compassion. Join us as Chip shares lessons from his faith, his unexpected path into politics, and what it truly means to live a life well-lived while serving others. Takeaways Friendship and Humor Faith, Golf and Public Service Community Involvement Chapters 00:00 Dad Jokes and Friendship 05:45 Faith and Church Involvement 14:30 Faith and Overcoming Challenges 29:11 Wisdom and Advice

12. 

    4 Apr 2026

    Family, Faith and Fun from a Fireman-Kenneth McKenzie

    The conversation covers childhood memories, baptism, youth ministry and so much more. Kenneth comes ready with some pretty decent dad joke game, but also get's real about early struggles with identity and worth. Get ready to cry a little and laugh a lot in this joy filled episode! Takeaways Family and love play a significant role in shaping personal experiences and stories. Mishaps and humorous incidents can add a lighthearted touch to personal narratives. Generational perspectives shape ministry contributions Authenticity and personal growth are essential in ministry Chapters 00:00 Introduction Dad Jokes 08:54 Childhood Memories 15:05 Youth Ministry and Podcast Mishap 22:31 Euthanized Mishap 29:25 Personal Reflection and Encouragement 36:06 Ministry and Spiritual Growth 47:07 Parental Influence and Faith

13. 

    28 Mar 2026

    Before "I do": Answering the Call to Serve Couples -Landon Straub

    The conversation covers a range of topics including family, golf, humor, faith, ministry, and podcasting. It delves into personal experiences, childhood memories, and the journey towards a calling in ministry for couples and marriage. The discussion also explores the idea of starting a podcast and the value of meaningful conversations. Takeaways Family and Golf Humor and Jokes Faith and Ministry Podcasting and Conversations Importance of having meaningful conversations The impact of serving and helping others Chapters 00:00 Humor and Jokes 13:00 Podcasting and Conversations 33:25 Reflecting on Childhood and Faith Journey

14. 

    21 Mar 2026

    My brother Jesus....I mean Justin!

    A lighthearted and nostalgic conversation between two brothers, Justin and Jonathan, as they reminisce about their childhood, share dad jokes, and discuss their experiences with faith and church leadership. Justin shares his journey with music, from learning to play the piano and guitar to his experiences with singing and leading worship. The conversation also delves into personal reflections, advice for the younger self, and the importance of travel and life experiences. The dialogue concludes with lighthearted banter and reflections. Takeaways Sibling dynamics and childhood memories The challenges and rewards of church leadership Personal growth through music Reflections on life and advice for the younger self The importance of travel and life experiences Chapters 00:00 Brotherly Banter and Childhood Memories 08:25 Faith and Salvation 13:46 Church Leadership and Personal Reflections 28:10 Content Creation and Lighthearted Banter

15. 

    14 Mar 2026

    My Dad put the "Dad" in Dad Jokes!

    The conversation between Jonathan and his father, Jimmy Pate, covers a range of topics, including the father-son bond, life lessons, and wisdom. It begins with lighthearted dad jokes and transitions into the story of how Jonathan's parents met. The discussion then delves into dating, marriage, and coming to know the Lord. Jimmy shares his compassion for those in addiction and offers advice to his younger self. The importance of keeping God's commandments is emphasized, and the conversation concludes with final words and gratitude. Takeaways Father-son bond Life lessons and wisdom Chapters 00:00 The Dad Jokes Begin 08:04 Coming to Know the Lord 15:18 Joke Break and Advice to Younger Self 20:24 Final Words and Gratitude

16. 

    7 Mar 2026

    My Cousin Leroy

    At 5'8", Lee Hicks doesn't come up short when it comes to humor and hope. Join us as we talk about the fun and the difficulties that come with ministry, and the blessings that flow from a family that loves and serves Jesus. Takeaways Family and faith Ministry can be great fun, and extremely difficult The importance of fellowship and community

17. 

    28 Feb 2026

    My Wife April and Her Horrible Dad Jokes! Episode 2

    Meet my wife April, my rock and the love of my life. She is a wonderful mother, and an incredible servant of God, but a horrible joke teller. Her jokes are so bad that you can't help but laugh, so join us in this episode as we talk about faith, family and having fun for 28 years of marriage! Takeaways 28 years of marriage Faith journey Church ministry Overcoming challenges Life transformation Chapters Dad Jokes! 05:11 How We Met and Early Years 13:41 Faith Journey and Baptism 19:03 Involvement and Impact 24:03 Freedom in Jesus 29:18 Parenting and Family

18. 

    20 Feb 2026

    Oakley is Moving to Japan! Episode 1

    Today’s episode is a special one for me. I’m sitting down with someone I’ve known his whole life — my son Oakley — as he prepares to pack his bags and move across the world to Japan. We’re talking about big transitions, bold faith, and what it looks like to trust God when life takes you far from home. Takeaways Growing up as a pastor's kid Interest in theology and Japanese culture Future missionary work PLEASE SUBSCRIBE!

19. 

    17 Feb 2026

    Why Holy Smokes and Dad Jokes? Episode 0

    Welcome to the very first episode of Holy Smokes and Dad Jokes. I’m Jonathan Pate — pastor, dad, and believer that faith and laughter belong in the same conversation. In this episode, I share the heart behind this podcast: real hope for real life, honest conversations, and yes… a solid dad joke or two. If you’re looking for encouragement that meets you where you are — without losing your smile — you’re in the right place.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

3 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.