For generations, many of us have been taught that God's wrath is His anger directed toward sinful people. But what if we've misunderstood it?
In this final message of the Reframe series, Cory explores one of the most misunderstood themes in Scripture and asks a simple but profound question: If Jesus is the perfect revelation of the Father, what does that mean for how we understand God's wrath?
Looking through the lens of Jesus, this message challenges the idea of an angry, punitive God and presents a different picture—one where God's wrath is His relentless love confronting everything that distorts, enslaves, and dehumanizes us. Rather than destroying people, God's passion is aimed at destroying the lies that keep us from knowing who we've always been.
Together, we explore:
• What the Bible actually means by "wrath"
• Why Romans 1 says God "gave them over"
• How Jesus redefined God's character
• Why the cross reveals reconciliation, not divine retaliation
• The difference between fear-driven religion and love-driven transformation
• How God's consuming fire purifies instead of punishes
00:00 - Introduction & Why We're Revisiting Reframe
02:35 - My Journey of Unlearning and Relearning
06:20 - Week 5: Reframing God's Wrath
09:28 - From Fear-Driven Thinking to Peace-Filled Living
12:25 - What If Wrath Isn't God's Anger?
15:35 - The Church's View of Wrath Changed
16:19 - God Is Love, God Is Light
17:52 - The Meaning of "Wrath" in Scripture
19:10 - Romans: Wrath as Natural Consequences
21:32 - Jerusalem, 70 AD & Rejecting Love
24:00 - God's Fire Purifies, Not Punishes
25:11 - Jesus Corrects the Old View of Wrath
29:01 - The Cross Reveals God's True Heart
32:04 - The Old Lens vs. The New Lens
33:29 - Living From Love Instead of Fear
38:09 - Closing Prayer & Final Encouragement
In this message from our Reframe series, we tackle one of the most foundational beliefs many Christians have never questioned: Were you actually born with a sinful nature?
For many of us, the Christian story began in Genesis 3—with sin, shame, and separation. But what if the biblical story actually begins in Genesis 1—with blessing, identity, and belovedness?
Together, we explore the history of the doctrine of original sin, the biblical case for original blessing, what the Greek word hamartia (sin) really means, and why your understanding of your identity shapes the way you experience God, yourself, and others.
This conversation isn't about minimizing sin. It's about asking whether we've misunderstood its origin, its purpose, and ultimately the good news of the Gospel.
In this episode we discuss:
- Why the biblical story begins with blessing before brokenness
- Original blessing vs. original sin
- What hamartia actually means in the Greek
- Did Adam pass down a sinful nature—or a distorted story?
- Why Romans should be read as one complete argument
- The difference between "flesh" and "sin nature"
- How identity, not shame, becomes the starting point for transformation
- Why Jesus came to reveal who you've always been
00:00 – Welcome & Introducing the Reframe Series
02:26 – You've Always Been in Union
04:29 – Why This Series Is Challenging
06:08 – Learning to Think, Not What to Think
08:31 – The Purpose of Reframe
10:35 – You Were Not Born Sinful
12:28 – Does the Bible Begin with Sin or Blessing?
14:06 – Original Blessing vs. Original Sin
16:35 – What Does "Sin" Actually Mean?
20:03 – Adam Didn't Pass Down a Sin Nature
22:28 – Understanding Romans Correctly
27:47 – Adam's Story vs. Jesus' Story
28:38 – What Does "Flesh" Really Mean?
30:03 – Scriptures Supporting Original Blessing
35:27 – Living from Blessing Instead of Shame
39:15 – Prayer & Final Encouragement
40:10 – The Ministry of Reconciliation
41:44 – Church Announcements & Closing
What if God's judgment has never been about condemning you—but restoring you?
For many of us, the word judgment immediately triggers fear. We picture a courtroom, a guilty verdict, and a God waiting to punish our failures. But what if that's not the picture Jesus revealed?
In this message from our Reframe series, Cory challenges one of the most deeply held assumptions in modern Christianity by exploring what Scripture actually says about God's judgment. Looking through the lens of Jesus, he asks whether judgment is primarily retributive or restorative, and how that answer changes everything about the way we relate to God.
Along the way, you'll discover:
- Why fear has become such a common motivator in Christianity.
- How church history shaped our understanding of judgment.
- The difference between a courtroom and a family room.
- Why Henry's adoption story became a powerful picture of God's judgment.
- A fresh look at passages like 2 Corinthians 5, John 3, John 5, and Revelation.
- How Jesus reveals a God whose judgment restores identity instead of destroying people.
00:00 - Introduction & Reframe Series
05:03 - Why This Series Matters
07:31 - Reframing Judgment
09:26 - The Goal: From Fear to Freedom
10:50 - Review: The Battlefield, the Devil & Death
15:04 - God's Judgment Is Restorative
16:03 - Henry's Adoption Changed Everything
19:30 - The Gavel That Changed My Theology
21:00 - Three Church Splits That Shaped Christianity
24:30 - Courtroom or Family Room?
26:33 - Jesus Reveals God's Judgment
28:14 - What About the Great White Throne?
29:17 - Rethinking 2 Corinthians 5
32:22 - The Ministry of Reconciliation
34:27 - Stop Trying to Earn God's Favor
36:01 - Ambassadors, Not Soldiers
37:16 - Judgment Reveals Your True Identity
39:50 - The Sound of the Gavel
41:02 - You Are More Beloved Than You Think
43:15 - This Week's Challenge
45:25 - Closing Prayer
46:14 - Final Encouragement & Next Week's Preview
For generations, many Christians have been taught to fear the devil, demons, and spiritual warfare. But what if we've been asking the wrong questions? What if many of the assumptions we've inherited deserve a fresh look through the lens of Jesus?
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, we continue our Reframe series by exploring one of the most misunderstood subjects in Christianity. Instead of approaching spiritual warfare through fear, we examine what Scripture actually says about Satan, the devil, demons, accusation, ego, and the finished work of Christ.
Together we discuss:
• Why so much of modern spiritual warfare teaching creates fear instead of freedom
• What the words "Satan" and "devil" actually mean in Scripture
• The difference between external evil and the internal voice of accusation
• Why the battlefield is often our thinking, not our surroundings
• How Jesus completely defeated the power of accusation through the cross
• What it means to live from victory instead of constantly fighting for it
00:00 - Introduction & The Reframe Series
02:33 - Our God Reigns
04:20 - Why We Need to Reframe Spiritual Warfare
09:29 - The Battlefield Is the Mind
10:56 - Reframing the Devil
13:37 - Why This Conversation Matters
16:25 - What the Bible Really Says About Demons
20:18 - What Does "Satan" Actually Mean?
25:05 - How the Devil Operates Today
28:23 - Ego, Trauma & Law-Based Thinking
34:18 - Influence vs. Possession
36:44 - Christ Defeated Every Accusation
39:01 - Stand in the Finished Work of Jesus
40:16 - Living Free From Fear
42:19 - Closing Challenge & Final Encouragement
In Part 1 of our summer sermon series highlight, Cory begins the Reframe series by asking one of the biggest questions many Christians have never considered:
What if the spiritual battle we've been taught to fight isn't what the New Testament is actually describing?
For generations, many believers have viewed the Christian life through the lens of spiritual warfare, fear, and unseen enemies. But what if Jesus accomplished more than we've realized? What if the New Testament is inviting us to live from victory instead of constantly fighting for it?
In this first message, Cory walks through Scripture to challenge common assumptions about spiritual warfare, the Armor of God, strongholds, principalities and powers, and what Paul was actually communicating in Ephesians 6. Rather than encouraging believers to live in fear of an ongoing cosmic battle, he presents a Christ-centered perspective that emphasizes identity, peace, healing, and the finished work of Jesus.
Whether you agree with every conclusion or not, this message is designed to provoke thoughtful conversation and encourage you to examine Scripture through the lens of Christ.
00:00 - Introduction & Summer Reframe Series
02:34 - Welcome to Hill City & Pastor Appreciation
04:36 - Christ in You & Hearing God's Voice
06:21 - Why This Series Will Challenge You
08:23 - The Purpose Behind Reframe
10:00 - From Fear-Driven Thinking to Peace-Filled Living
12:13 - Fix Your Eyes on Jesus
13:21 - Reframing the Battlefield
15:19 - The Problem with Spiritual Warfare Thinking
19:52 - Good & Evil or Functional & Dysfunctional?
21:31 - What Strongholds Really Are
22:01 - Understanding Ephesians 6 in Context
24:26 - The Armor of God Is About Identity
26:05 - Principalities, Powers & Human Systems
29:09 - What Does "Satan" Actually Mean?
31:55 - The Armor of God Revisited
35:22 - You're an Ambassador, Not a Soldier
36:19 - Fear-Based Living vs Faith-Based Living
37:42 - Christ Has Already Won the Victory
39:06 - The Law, Sin & Standing Firm
40:14 - Christ Disarmed Every Power
41:15 - Leaving Law Behind for Grace
43:19 - Living from Victory Instead of Warfare
45:35 - Preview: Reframing Demons & Final Encouragement
What if the greatest authority you carry isn't found in what you say, but in the alignment of your heart?
In this powerful message from the CIM Conference, Bill Vanderbush continues unpacking themes from his book The Sound of Your Blood. Through stories, Scripture, and profound insight, Bill explores the hidden years of Jesus, the illusion of separation, the authority of silence, and the transformative power of living in union with God.
This conversation challenges many of the assumptions we've inherited about faith, authority, confession, and spiritual growth. Instead of striving to get God to act, what if the invitation is to align with what God has already accomplished? What if righteousness, peace, and joy are not distant goals, but present realities flowing from your union with Christ?
00:00 - Introduction & Bill Vanderbush Series
02:21 - Jesus Enjoyed Being Human
03:41 - The Hidden Years of Jesus
05:10 - Christ Lives Fully in You
06:22 - The Illusion of Separation
07:50 - Learning to Love One Another
08:49 - The Power of Words and Sound
09:11 - The Hurricane Story and True Faith
11:18 - The Sound of Your Spirit
11:48 - Adam, Eve, and the Transfer of Authority
13:32 - Jesus Reclaims All Authority
14:59 - Authority Through Alignment
16:31 - The Words That Make You Clean
17:48 - Isaiah’s Unclean Lips
19:25 - Purity, Grace, and the Finished Work
20:20 - Confession as Alignment
21:41 - What It Really Means to Believe
23:26 - Discovering Your True Identity
24:23 - Filled with the Fullness of Joy
27:38 - Speaking So You Won’t Stumble
28:19 - Grace, Consequences, and Wisdom
30:07 - Freedom Guided by Love
31:33 - Peace in the Midst of Trouble
32:27 - Equipped for Every Obstacle
33:09 - Righteousness, Peace, and Joy
33:42 - The Kingdom Frequency Within You
In this special episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, we're continuing our series featuring highlights from Bill Vanderbush's message at the CIM Conference.
What if healing isn't something you're trying to get from God, but something you're becoming aware of? What if spiritual authority looks more like confidence in Christ's victory than striving against darkness? And what if the greatest key to seeing God's power flow through your life is simply learning to let yourself be loved?
In this message, Bill shares powerful stories of healing, explores the victory of Christ over fear and darkness, and unpacks a beautiful vision of union with God rooted in the early church fathers. Along the way, he challenges achievement-based spirituality and invites us into a life of rest, wholeness, and awareness of God's presence.
00:00 - Introduction to Bill Vanderbush
02:21 - Healing Begins with Wholeness
04:24 - St. Anthony and Spiritual Authority
08:13 - Stories of Extraordinary Healing
11:40 - The Healing Service That Needed No Sermon
15:48 - The Secret of Unhindered Power
17:45 - Nine Months Without a Miracle
19:40 - Get Your Eyes Off the Problem
21:36 - When They Forgot About the Sick
23:48 - The Sound and Frequency of God
25:37 - Why God Speaks
26:48 - Chasing the Wind and Finding Rest
27:25 - The Heartbeat of God
29:30 - Creator Becomes Creation
30:03 - Athanasius vs. Arius
33:27 - Grace vs. Achievement
34:17 - The Problem with Distance Theology
35:45 - Christ in You, Union Within
37:05 - Inviting God In vs. Living in Union
38:05 - Falling Into Grace
What if your words carry more power than you realize?
In Part 2 of this powerful message from the CIM Conference, Bill Vanderbush explores a fascinating theme that runs throughout Scripture: the "sound of your blood." Beginning with Abel's blood crying out from the ground and culminating with Jesus' blood speaking a better word, Bill unpacks how creation responds to the words, beliefs, and declarations of those made in the image of God.
This conversation challenges us to rethink the power of our speech, the responsibility of stewarding our words, and the impact our perspective has on the world around us. Along the way, Bill explores Romans 8, the glory of God, our identity as the dwelling place of the Holy Spirit, and the radical revelation that God is not distant but intimately present as Father.
You'll hear inspiring stories, thought-provoking insights, and a fresh invitation to embrace the goodness of God, walk in your true identity, and release life rather than judgment into the world around you.
00:00 - Introduction & Bill Vanderbush Conference Series
02:20 - The Voice of Abel’s Blood
03:06 - Adam’s Authority Still Exists Today
04:06 - What Is the Sound of Your Blood?
06:18 - Romans 8 and Creation’s Response
08:23 - Why Human Beings Are So Powerful
10:07 - The Atmosphere We Create With Our Words
11:30 - Creation Awaits the Glory of God’s Children
12:20 - The Glory of God Is His Goodness on Display
13:26 - Challenging Religious Views of God’s Goodness
14:06 - You Are the Temple of the Holy Spirit
15:10 - Letting Go of Separation and Depravity
16:09 - If Paul Visited the Modern Church
17:36 - Jesus’ Blood Speaks a Better Word
18:35 - Abel, Judgment, and the Earth’s Response
22:34 - Learning to Speak What Heaven Is Saying
23:20 - Testimonies of Blessing the Land
26:32 - Deleting Negativity and Seeing Change
28:08 - A Child Raised From Death
30:06 - Jesus’ Better Word: “Father, Forgive Them”
32:20 - The Greatest Revelation: God as Father
35:28 - The Gospel Is About a Person, Not a Place
35:43 - A Good Father Wants His Children Home
37:01 - Religion’s Lie About the Father
38:19 - Remembering What We’ve Forgotten
39:18 - The New Commandment: Love Like Jesus
39:57 - Closing Prayer & Final Thoughts
What if some of the things we've believed about ourselves were never true to begin with?
In Part 1 of this special message from the CIM Conference, Bill Vanderbush explores identity, belonging, grace, and the Father's heart through the lens of Scripture and personal story. From the challenges of stigma and church culture to the beauty of God's original design for humanity, Bill reminds us that our deepest questions have never been about earning God's love—they've always been about discovering who we've been all along.
This conversation dives into themes of identity, the voice we listen to, the power of our words, and the invitation to live from the reality of God's presence rather than from fear, shame, or lack. Along the way, Bill unpacks Genesis, the story of Cain and Abel, the nature of grace, and the radical truth that God has always known and loved you.
Whether you're wrestling with questions about faith, deconstruction, identity, or simply wanting a deeper understanding of the Father's heart, this message offers encouragement, challenge, and hope.
In this episode:
• Walking through stigma and seasons of uncertainty
• Why God's presence often feels strongest when idols fall
• The Father's heart and the beauty of grace
• Recovering forgotten truths from church history
• Discovering your true identity
• The power of words and human creativity
• The lie of lack and the birth of religion
• What Cain and Abel reveal about human nature
• Living from God's presence instead of fear
00:00 - Introduction & Bill Vanderbush Series
02:22 - A Historically Significant Moment
03:38 - Finding God Beyond the Brand
06:31 - When Idols Come Down
08:02 - Grace, Heresy, and a Better Gospel
09:15 - AI, Church History, and Recovering Ancient Truth
12:03 - Becoming a Grandfather & Seeing the Father's Heart
13:29 - The Sound of Your Blood
15:06 - Transformation Through Renewed Thinking
17:13 - Carrying Divine Wholeness
18:26 - Following the Sound of His Voice
19:14 - Discovering Your True Identity
20:20 - Genesis and Humanity's Original Design
23:06 - How Others Shape Our Identity
25:03 - God's Creative Power Through Words
26:46 - Created in the Image of God
29:00 - Divine Breath and New Creation
30:30 - The Face of a Loving Father
32:39 - The Power to Assign Identity
34:29 - The Lie of Lack and the Birth of Religion
37:01 - Cain, Abel, and the Voice of Blood
38:18 - Rethinking Sin Nature
40:03 - Freedom, Responsibility, and Redemption
42:25 - Attention, Affection, and God's Presence
44:15 - A God Who Wants Friendship
45:08 - Cain, Abel, and the First Church Conflict
45:40 - The Voice of Your Brother's Blood
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, we sit down with our friend Bill Vanderbush for one of the most honest, thought-provoking, and hope-filled conversations we’ve had on the podcast.
We talk about union with Christ, the finished work of Jesus, the roots of ancient Christianity, and why so many people are rediscovering the goodness of God in a fresh way. Bill shares powerful insights from his newest books, opens up about the current state of the Church, and challenges fear-based theology with a Gospel centered on love, identity, and belonging.
This conversation explores:
• The ancient roots of union theology
• Why the Gospel became more about what we do than what Jesus has done
• The Council of Nicaea, church history, and modern Christianity
• Fear, punishment, and the goodness of God
• Why people are deconstructing unhealthy theology
• Identity, sonship, and knowing God as Father
• The difference between religion and authentic relationship with Jesus
• Why “God is better than you think” changes everything
Whether you’re deconstructing old beliefs, rediscovering your faith, or simply hungry for deeper conversations about Jesus, this episode is packed with wisdom, grace, and hope.
00:42 - Bill’s Influence on the Podcast
02:44 - Writing for Future Generations
03:41 - The Sound of Your Blood Explained
05:13 - Reaching Deconstructed & New Age Audiences
06:00 - Union Begins in Genesis
07:42 - Identity, Union & Knowing Who You Are
09:25 - Ancient Christianity & Church History
11:23 - How Christianity Became Complicated
13:25 - Salvation, Belief & the Finished Work
15:33 - Ancient Creeds vs Modern Theology
17:23 - Living From Union With Christ
18:29 - Simplifying the Gospel Like Jesus
19:46 - Are We Headed Toward Another Church Council?
21:06 - Returning to a Christ-Centered Gospel
22:30 - Fear-Based Theology & Punishment
24:11 - Honoring Past Generations While Growing
26:16 - The Problem With “Heresy Hunting”
27:22 - God Is Better Than You Think
28:12 - Asking Jesus Directly
29:54 - Rediscovering Wonder & Childlike Faith
32:40 - Healing Orphan Thinking & Family Wounds
33:41 - Where to Find Bill Vanderbush
34:35 - Final Thoughts on God’s Goodness
35:42 - “You’re Loved & There’s Nothing You Can Do About It”
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, we sit down with Bishop Shawn from Cameroon, Africa for one of the most powerful and eye-opening conversations we’ve had on the podcast.
We talk about:
• Deconstructing fear-based theology
• How colonialism distorted the image of God in Africa
• Inclusion, identity, and the finished work of Christ
• Recognizing royalty in every person
• What it means to truly “see Jesus in others”
• Entrepreneurship, ministry, and funding Kingdom work without manipulation
• Writing the Gospel in a language the world can understand
Bishop Shawn shares incredible wisdom about union with God, healing cultural wounds, and the Gospel as a message of restoration for individuals, families, and entire nations.
00:00 - Welcome & Introducing Bishop Shawn
01:16 - First Guest from Africa
02:44 - Bishop Shawn’s Journey Into Ministry
04:49 - Seeing Jesus Beyond Religion
06:02 - Deconstruction & Colonial Christianity in Africa
08:01 - Teaching Christ Through Culture
09:27 - Christianity & African Identity
11:20 - Recognizing Royalty in People
12:40 - The Guatemala Orphanage Story
13:58 - Identity, Royalty & the Family of God
15:31 - Affirmation Before Performance
16:12 - Ministry & Entrepreneurship
18:18 - Writing Books & Teaching the Gospel
20:00 - “I Think Myself Happy” Explained
21:50 - Why Historical Context Matters
22:27 - Where to Find Bishop Shawn’s Content
23:10 - “I See Jesus In You” Culture
24:06 - Freedom From Intimidation
25:24 - Seeing Jesus in Everyone
26:02 - Final Thoughts & Closing Blessing
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, we unpack 4 signs that you’re actually moving in the right direction spiritually, emotionally, and mentally.
After weeks of conversations around “Godly Thought or Trauma Response,” we wanted to answer one of the biggest questions we’ve been getting:
“How do I know I’m healing?”
“How do I know I’m growing?”
“How do I know I’m actually becoming free?”
This conversation is deeply personal as we continue navigating grief, leadership, deconstruction, healing, and learning how to live from love instead of fear.
In this episode, we discuss:
• Why fear is no longer our motivation
• Spiritual disciplines through love instead of pressure
• Vulnerability vs transparency
• Healing through safe connection
• How to hold tension without panic
• Deconstruction, curiosity, and learning to rethink theology
• Letting go of the need for approval
• Finding identity rooted in love instead of performance
We also share some updates about upcoming podcast episodes, interviews with Bill Vanderbush and Dr. Shawn Smith, and what’s ahead this summer for the podcast.
00:00 - Intro & Processing Grief
02:15 - Four Signs You’re Moving in the Right Direction
03:34 - Sign #1: Less Motivated by Fear
04:22 - Spiritual Disciplines Without Fear
05:01 - Fear, Hell, and Financial Freedom
06:26 - Generosity Flowing From Love
07:21 - Love Removes Fear
09:00 - Fear May Whisper, But It Doesn’t Lead
09:47 - Sign #2: Honest About Your Humanity
10:16 - Transparency vs Vulnerability
10:49 - Healing Happens When You’re Heard
11:16 - “I’m Okay, But I’m Not Okay”
12:00 - Why “How Are You?” Matters Differently in Ukrainian Culture
13:53 - Sign #3: Holding Tension Without Panic
14:16 - Deconstruction, Uncertainty & Emotional Processing
15:28 - Letting People Process at Their Own Pace
16:14 - Curiosity, Teachability & Seeing God Better
17:02 - Ted Lasso, Curiosity & Less Judgment
17:24 - Sign #4: Rooted in Love, Not Approval
17:39 - Letting Go of Needing Everyone’s Approval
18:21 - Identity as Sons & Daughters of God
19:02 - Recap: Four Signs You’re Healing & Growing
19:19 - Upcoming Podcast Guests & Summer Series
21:26 - Final Encouragement & Closing Thoughts
This episode is different. After five years of never missing a week, we suddenly disappeared for two weeks…
Two weeks ago, we lost one of our best friends — Chris Crawford — unexpectedly at just 46 years old. In this episode, we sit down not with polished answers or a sermon outline, but simply as two grieving friends trying to process heartbreak in real time.
We talk honestly about:
What grief actually feels like
How loss comes in waves
The emotional weight of showing up when you don’t want to
Why presence matters more than words
The tension of holding hope and heartbreak at the same time
Some of the unhelpful things people say to grieving people (even with good intentions)
Why we felt it was important not to just “move on” too quickly
This is a conversation about friendship, loss, pain, love, and learning how to sit with grief instead of trying to fix it.
If you’re grieving right now…
If someone you love is grieving…
Or if you simply need permission to not be okay for a while…
we hope this episode reminds you that you’re not alone.
More than anything, this conversation reminded us: Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is simply show up.
00:00 - We’re Back After Tragedy
00:36 - Missing Our First Podcast Weeks in 5 Years
01:07 - Losing One of Our Best Friends
03:03 - How Grief Comes in Waves
04:36 - The Closest Loss We’ve Ever Experienced
05:19 - The Shock of Losing Chris at 46
07:11 - Writing Through Grief & Journaling
08:26 - Why Christians Struggle With Grief
08:58 - Preaching While Grieving
10:24 - Holding Hope and Heartbreak Together
11:54 - Grieving Without Easy Answers
13:14 - The Tension of Comforting People
15:13 - Presence Matters More Than Words
15:45 - A Message That Encouraged Us
18:33 - Grief, Vulnerability & Being Real
20:15 - Show Up for Someone This Week
20:50 - Never Underestimate Presence
21:43 - What’s Next for the Podcast
22:08 - Final Thoughts & Encouragement
What if what you’ve been calling “meekness”... isn’t actually meekness at all?
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, we unpack the difference between true biblical meekness and something many of us have unknowingly lived in—self-abandonment.
For years, we’ve been taught that being quiet, agreeable, and selfless is spiritual. But what if constantly apologizing, shrinking your voice, and avoiding conflict isn’t humility… it’s a trauma response?
We get honest about:
Why so many people struggle to speak up or set boundaries
The subtle ways self-abandonment shows up (you probably do these without realizing it)
The fear underneath it all—rejection, conflict, and being “too much”
Why “no” is a complete sentence (and why that’s so hard for us)
What meekness actually looks like through the life of Jesus
This one gets personal. We share our own struggles with over-apologizing, people-pleasing, and learning to stop shrinking ourselves in relationships.
If you’ve ever felt like:
“I don’t want to bother anyone…”
“Sorry, this might be a dumb question…”
“I’ll just stay quiet to keep the peace…”
…this episode is for you.
Because the truth is: Meekness isn’t weakness. It’s strength under control. And you were never meant to disappear to be accepted.
00:00 - Welcome Back and Podcast Consistency
01:58 - Learning to Celebrate Yourself
02:50 - This Week’s Topic: Meekness vs. Self-Abandonment
03:43 - What Self-Abandonment Looks Like
05:11 - Channock on Feeling Meek but Being Seen as Bold
06:47 - Over-Apologizing and Shrinking Yourself
08:01 - “I Know You’re Busy” and Other Subtle Self-Abandonment Patterns
09:19 - Why “No” Should Be a Complete Sentence
10:05 - Boundaries, Family Pressure, and Over-Explaining
11:06 - Why We Struggle to Say No
12:31 - The Fear Beneath Self-Abandonment
14:23 - What Meekness Actually Is
15:12 - Strength Under Control in the Life of Jesus
16:20 - Why Self-Abandonment Feels So Hard
17:57 - A Simple Shift: Stop Starting with “Sorry”
18:43 - Meekness Does Not Mean Disappearing
19:15 - Final Encouragement to Stop Shrinking Yourself
20:34 - Reflecting on Self-Abandonment in Real Life
21:16 - You’re Loved and There’s Nothing You Can Do About It
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, we talk about something that gets praised all the time in church culture—but often hides a much deeper issue: productivity without rest.
A lot of us were taught that being busy means being faithful.
That doing more means you care more.
That slowing down feels lazy.
That resting means you are falling behind.
But what if that constant need to produce is not obedience at all? What if it is actually a trauma response?
This week, Cory and Channock unpack the difference between healthy discipline and unhealthy productivity, and why so many of us have tied our worth to our output. They talk honestly about the pressure to always be doing more, the fear of being seen as lazy, the struggle to stop striving, and how rest can feel uncomfortable when your identity has been built around performance.
They also share personal stories about ministry, family, work ethic, and the inner voices that make rest feel irresponsible—even when rest is exactly what is needed.
In this episode:
Why productivity is often praised as spirituality
How performance can become tied to identity
The fear of being perceived as lazy
Why rest can feel uncomfortable and even unsafe
How childhood and church culture shape our work habits
The difference between inactivity and true rest
What Jesus modeled instead of constant striving
Simple practical ways to begin choosing rest without guilt
This episode is for the person who feels guilty slowing down…
For the one who always feels like they should be doing more…
For the one who has confused exhaustion with faithfulness.
Sometimes the most spiritual thing you can do is stop striving.
00:00 - Welcome Back
02:17 - Why Short-Form Theology Feels Frustrating
02:50 - Godly Thought or Trauma Response Series Recap
03:41 - Processing Last Week’s Hypervigilance Episode
05:45 - This Week’s Topic: Productivity vs. Rest
06:30 - When Busyness Gets Praised as Spirituality
07:45 - Can the Performance Bug Ever Go Away?
08:59 - What If Productivity Is a Trauma Response?
09:20 - Channock on the Fear of Being Seen as Lazy
11:27 - The Garage Door Story and Hidden Pressure
14:01 - Cory on Childhood Roots of Overworking
16:30 - When Productivity Becomes Identity
19:06 - What Rest Actually Looks Like
19:51 - Three Things Jesus Never Did
20:28 - Finding Life Outside of Productivity
21:30 - Ministry, Relife, and Protecting Family
23:50 - Rest Is Peace in the Middle of Activity
24:11 - Simple Practices to Start Resting
25:52 - Phone Boundaries and Learning Presence
26:40 - You Are Valuable Without Proving It
27:04 - Final Encouragement and Closing
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, we take on a topic that hits closer than most—and often gets misunderstood in church culture: hypervigilance.
A lot of us have been taught to call it discernment.
“I just feel like something’s off…”
“The Holy Spirit is showing me something…”
And sometimes that’s true. But other times? It’s not discernment—it’s your nervous system trying to stay safe based on past experiences.
In this conversation, Cory and Channock unpack how hypervigilance develops, why it feels so spiritual, and how it can quietly sabotage your relationships, your peace, and your ability to actually be present. They also get honest about their own experiences—from leadership dynamics to marriage and insecurity—and how easy it is to mistake fear for wisdom.
The goal isn’t to shame this behavior—it’s to bring awareness so you can begin to move from fear → peace, and from reaction → presence.
In this episode:
Why hypervigilance often gets mislabeled as discernment
What hypervigilance actually looks like (overanalyzing, expecting conflict, reading into everything)
The root causes: trauma, broken trust, and unsafe environments
How this pattern keeps you stuck in a cycle of fear (and even victim thinking)
A personal story of how past relationships can affect present ones
The difference between discernment (peace) and hypervigilance (fear)
A simple but powerful question: Is there actual evidence something is wrong?
A grounding practice: “I’m safe right now”
00:00 - Welcome + Podcast Intro
03:33 - Series Recap: Godly Thought or Trauma Response
04:11 - Today’s Topic: Hypervigilance vs Discernment
05:10 - What Hypervigilance Really Is
05:37 - Personal Example: Church Leadership + Caution
06:42 - Hypervigilance vs Healthy Boundaries
08:34 - What Hypervigilance Looks Like Practically
09:20 - “Something Feels Off” Mentality
10:04 - The Cycle: Staying in Victim Mode
11:02 - Root Causes: Trauma, Broken Trust, Unsafe Environments
12:03 - Why It Doesn’t Just Turn Off
12:44 - When Hypervigilance Becomes Your Identity
14:17 - Calling It What It Is (Not Discernment)
15:18 - Leadership Struggles + Calling Out Insecurity
16:29 - What True Discernment Looks Like
17:37 - Peace vs Fear (Key Difference)
18:30 - The Cost of Living Hypervigilant
19:07 - The Key Question: Evidence or Assumption?
19:22 - Practical Step: “I’m Safe Right Now”
20:03 - Hypervigilance vs Presence
20:14 - Final Encouragement + Why This Matters
21:30 - Closing: You’re Loved
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, we tackle something that rarely gets questioned—but is often praised in church culture: self-reliance.
You know the person… the one who handles everything, never asks for help, always shows up, carries the weight, and pushes through no matter what. We call them strong. Faithful. Dependable. But what if constantly carrying everything alone isn’t actually strength?
What if it’s a trauma response?
In this conversation, Cory and Channock unpack the deeper roots of self-reliance—how it can be driven by fear of being a burden, fear of being let down, or a deep desire to feel needed, valued, and accepted. They also get honest about their own struggles with this, from “Superman syndrome” to workaholism to the tension of expecting others to match what you give.
But the heart of this episode is the shift from self-reliance to shared life—the kind of life Jesus modeled and the early church embodied through “one anothering” each other well.
If you’ve ever said “I’ve got it,” when you really didn’t… this episode is for you.
In this episode:
Why self-reliance often gets praised as spiritual maturity
The hidden roots: fear, rejection, loneliness, and control
The emotional cost of carrying everything alone
How self-reliance can actually block connection
What Jesus modeled instead: shared life and mutual support
A powerful question to ask: Am I meant to carry this alone?
Practical steps to start letting people in
00:00 - Welcome + Podcast Intro
00:40 - Series Overview: Godly Thought or Trauma Response
01:35 - Today’s Topic: Self-Reliance
02:17 - Why Self-Reliance Gets Praised
02:52 - Roots of Self-Reliance (People-Pleasing, Rejection, Loneliness)
04:04 - Personal Struggle: Superman Imposter Syndrome
05:16 - The “Should” Trap + Emotional Tension
06:19 - When Others Don’t Meet Your Expectations
07:11 - Hard Question: Not Asking for Help
07:57 - Impatience + Doing It Alone
08:50 - Workaholic Tendencies + Selective Help
09:33 - “I’ve Got It” Mentality Explained
10:02 - Fear of Being a Burden or Let Down
10:40 - The Cost: Self-Reliance Blocks Connection
11:09 - Leadership Struggles + Fragilizing Others
12:05 - Growth Through Asking for Help (RElife Story)
14:12 - Why Asking for Help Is So Hard
15:01 - The Lie: Easier Doesn’t Mean Healthier
15:38 - The Shift: From Self-Reliance to Shared Life
16:25 - One Anothering: The Early Church Model
17:52 - You Were Never Meant to Do Life Alone
18:47 - Practical Step: Ask a Better Question
21:31 - Be Specific + Be Okay Hearing “No”
22:03 - Real Strength = Connection, Not Isolation
22:39 - Closing Encouragement
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, we talk about the difference between peacekeeping and peacemaking—and why those two things are not the same.
A lot of us were taught that being “nice,” avoiding conflict, staying quiet, and keeping everyone comfortable was the godly way. But what if that’s not actually peace? What if it’s a trauma response dressed up as spirituality?
We unpack how peacekeeping is often rooted in fear—fear of rejection, fear of conflict, fear of being misunderstood, fear of losing connection—and how it can slowly cause you to abandon your own voice, needs, and boundaries. Then we contrast that with the way of Jesus, who didn’t avoid tension, but entered it with truth, love, and a desire for restoration.
If you’ve ever found yourself shrinking, avoiding hard conversations, or carrying the emotional burden of keeping everyone else okay, this conversation is for you.
In this episode, we cover:
The difference between peacekeeping and peacemaking
Why peacekeeping often looks spiritual
How fear drives conflict avoidance
What Jesus modeled instead
How to confront without escalating
4 practical steps toward real peacemaking
00:00 - Welcome + YouTube Growth & Appreciation
01:03 - Why This Podcast Matters Right Now
01:43 - Series Intro: Godly Thought or Trauma Response
03:00 - Today’s Topic: Peacekeeping vs Peacemaking
03:40 - What Jesus Meant by Peacemakers (Not Peacekeepers)
04:11 - Signs of Peacekeeping (People-Pleasing & Avoidance)
05:02 - Why Peacekeeping Gets Praised
05:50 - Fear at the Root of Peacekeeping
06:40 - How Peacekeeping Makes You Disappear
07:32 - Real-Life Example: Family Tension & Boundaries
08:36 - Leadership Struggles: Avoiding Hard Conversations
09:45 - Fragilizing: Walking on Eggshells
10:29 - Self-Perception vs How Others See You
11:39 - Fear of Hurting Others vs Fear of Losing Connection
12:44 - Why Fragilizing Hurts Growth
13:59 - Tension: When to Confront vs When Not To
15:13 - Jesus Example: Confronting Without Escalating
16:03 - What True Peacemaking Looks Like
16:48 - Peacekeepers vs Peacemakers (Clear Differences)
17:39 - Why This Leads to Healing (Not Just Harmony)
17:59 - Practical Steps to Become a Peacemaker
19:09 - Step 1: Admit Specifics
19:34 - Step 2: Avoid Excuses
20:00 - Step 3: Accept Consequences
20:18 - Step 4: Ask for Forgiveness
20:53 - Closing + Next Episode Teaser
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, we kick off our new series asking a powerful question: Is this a godly thought… or a trauma response?
And we start with one of the most common (and sneaky) ones in church culture: false humility.
For many of us, what we’ve called “humility” is actually self-rejection. We’ve been trained to downplay our gifts, deflect compliments, and avoid affirmation—all in the name of being “spiritual.” But what if that’s not humility at all? What if it’s insecurity… fear… or even internalized shame?
In this episode, we unpack where false humility comes from, why it feels safe, and how it may actually be robbing you of confidence, identity, and freedom...
Why deflecting compliments isn’t humility
How church culture often trains us to think less of ourselves
The difference between humility and self-rejection
Why false humility can disconnect you from your identity
What Jesus actually modeled (confidence, security, and truth)
A simple practice to begin breaking this pattern: just say “thank you”
If you’ve ever struggled to receive affirmation, celebrate yourself, or believe good things about who you are… this conversation will hit close to home.
00:00 - Welcome + Podcast Intro
01:31 - Hill City Invite + New Galatians Series
01:52 - Deflecting Compliments (Real-Time Example)
02:07 - New Series: Godly Thought or Trauma Response?
03:27 - Why These Patterns Look Spiritual
04:08 - Topic: False Humility vs Worthiness
05:00 - Why We Deflect Compliments
06:09 - What We Were Taught About Humility
07:12 - You Are Worthy (Reframing Identity)
08:34 - Pendulum Swing: Pride vs Self-Rejection
09:16 - False Humility Robs Confidence
09:50 - Church Teachings That Shape Low Self-Worth
11:03 - Internalized Shame Disguised as Humility
12:14 - Jesus Restores Identity, Not Self-Hate
14:28 - What’s Underneath? (Counseling Lens)
15:10 - Fear of Disappointment + Staying Small
16:19 - What True Humility Actually Is
18:33 - Affirmation Builds Security, Not Pride
19:18 - Learning to Celebrate Yourself
20:04 - Why False Humility Feels Safe
20:55 - Simple Practice: Just Say “Thank You”
22:00 - Letting Goodness Land Internally
22:50 - Final Encouragement + Closing
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, we kick off a brand new conversation about something many Christians never stop to question: what if some of the behaviors we’ve called “spiritual maturity” are actually survival patterns?
We talk about three reasons churches often unintentionally reward unhealthy patterns, not because leaders are malicious, but because many of us were formed by the same systems ourselves. From self-shrinking that looks like humility, to overworking that looks like sacrifice, to people-pleasing that looks like love, this episode sets the stage for a deeper series on trauma responses disguised as godliness.
If you’ve ever wondered whether a certain response in your life is actually healthy… or just familiar… this episode is for you.
In this conversation, we cover:
Why survival behaviors can look like spiritual maturity
How churches often reward what keeps systems stable
Why many leaders unknowingly reinforce the same unhealthy patterns they were taught
How Jesus modeled security, wholeness, boundaries, and honesty
Why healing is not about becoming less spiritual, but more honest
This episode is a bridge into a new series where we’ll unpack common Christian behaviors and ask: is this actually godly, or is it a trauma response?
00:00 - Intro & Podcast Updates
01:03 - Indiana Sports Talk
02:20 - The 2:6 Life Recap
02:58 - New Series: Godly Thought or Trauma Response?
03:54 - Why Churches Reward Survival Patterns
04:58 - Reason 1: Survival Behaviors Look Spiritual
09:53 - Reason 2: Churches Reward What Keeps Things Stable
11:53 - Reason 3: Leaders Were Formed by the Same Patterns
15:23 - Jesus as the Model of Secure Wholeness
16:25 - The Real Question: Survival or Spirituality?
16:57 - Why This Series Matters
18:27 - Next Week: False Humility & Receiving Affirmation
20:31 - Closing Encouragement
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, we wrap up our deconstruction/reconstruction mini-series with a question a lot of people ask: Which one is harder—deconstruction or reconstruction?
We start with a little Nashville recap, then we get honest about what this journey actually feels like in real life. One of the biggest takeaways: the “harder vs. easier” question might not even be the right lens. The better questions are: What am I building now? What am I a part of? And is it beautiful?
We talk about why reconstruction can feel heavier—because there’s no blueprint, growth becomes less visible, freedom requires discernment, and you’re often doing deep internal work that nobody can see. But we also talk about the hope on the other side: steadiness, less fear, more humility, more peace, and a clearer vision of a Jesus who gets bigger and brighter as you go.
If you’re in the middle space—unsure, rebuilding, or feeling alone—you’re not crazy. You’re not losing faith. You’re being formed.
In this episode:
Deconstruction vs. reconstruction (and why it’s not a simple comparison)
Why reconstruction feels slower, heavier, and more internal
The “no blueprint” reality—and the challenge of freedom
The question that filters everything: Is it beautiful?
What this season is forming in you (righteousness, peace, joy)
Why safe people matter when you’re rebuilding
00:58 - Red Wings vs Predators jersey drama
03:14 - Why Cory came in hot + wrapping the 26 Life mini-series
04:49 - Big question: Which is harder—deconstruction or reconstruction?
05:43 - Deconstruction as demolition (and the tension of “throw it all out”)
06:33 - Deconstruction felt powerless, stuck, uncertain
07:52 - Clarifying “powerful”: disruption vs the fallout of “now what?”
08:12 - Cottage renovation analogy: nostalgia, attachment, and letting things go
10:21 - Aha moments, permission, and finding language in deconstruction
12:41 - Why reconstruction can feel heavier: nuance, layers, reconciliation
14:30 - David & Goliath example: living without forced answers
16:40 - Moving from “what’s wrong?” to “what am I building now?”
17:29 - The filter question: Is it beautiful? (making Jesus look beautiful)
18:12 - Why reconstruction is hard: no blueprint—only freedom
19:31 - Freedom requires vulnerability, discernment, and rethinking practices
20:50 - Growth becomes less visible: internal change, slower reactions, steadiness
22:56 - Reconstruction as deeper work: character, posture, openness to God
24:53 - The importance of safe people to process with (and time gaps in growth)
25:57 - Plot twist: “harder” is the wrong question—what is this season forming in you?
27:14 - Kingdom markers: righteousness, peace, joy as the real measuring stick
27:41 - Next week teaser: Christianese as trauma responses (5-part framework)
29:05 - Closing: “You’re loved and there’s nothing you can do about it.”
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, Cory and Channock tackle one of the hardest parts of growth: what happens when you change…but the people around you don’t. If you’ve gone through deconstruction, started holding your beliefs more loosely, or found yourself living with more nuance, you’ve probably felt the tension at the dinner table—Do I speak up? Stay quiet? Change the subject? Because the truth is, most of the time the tension isn’t even theological… it’s relational.
They talk honestly about why your growth can feel threatening to others (even when you’re not trying to change anyone), the unspoken agreements relationships can be built on, and the three common temptations that show up in this season: shrinking, proving, or withdrawing. From there, they give five practical tools to help you stay connected without losing yourself—how to lead with curiosity, stop managing other people’s reactions, and build safe spaces where you don’t have to translate your entire journey just to be understood.
If you’ve felt misunderstood, exhausted, or tempted to pull back from the people you love, this one is for you.
In this episode:
Why the tension isn’t theological—it’s relational
The 3 temptations: shrink, prove, withdraw
5 practical tools for staying connected while you grow
When distance is wisdom (boundaries, not punishment)
Staying grounded in who you’re becoming
00:00 - Welcome Back + Quick Banter
00:45 - Share the Episode + 26 Life Theme (1 John 2:6)
01:34 - Recap: Deconstruction, Stuck Seasons, Staying Tender
02:20 - Recap: Rebuilding Trust (Brené Brown’s BRAVING)
02:50 - Recap: Living Without Certainty (The Sin of Certainty)
03:22 - Today’s Topic: When You Change but Others Don’t
04:08 - The Real Tension: Family, Friends, and Staying Connected
05:08 - When People Speak in Absolutes + You Feel Misunderstood
06:17 - Dinner Table Moment: Speak Up, Stay Quiet, or Shift Topics?
07:30 - It’s Not Theological—It’s Relational Risk
09:20 - When Your Shift Feels Threatening to Others
10:16 - Unspoken Agreements: “We’ve Always Believed This”
11:34 - 3 Temptations: Shrink, Prove, or Withdraw
12:15 - Temptation 1: Shrinking to Keep the Room Calm
13:16 - Temptation 2: Proving It (Over-explaining, Articles, Debates)
14:01 - Temptation 3: Withdrawing Fully (Exhaustion + New Language)
16:06 - 5 Practical Tools for Connection (Overview)
17:23 - Tool 1: Decide What’s Worth Discussing (Hill vs Habit)
19:42 - Tool 2: Lead With Curiosity, Not Correction
20:36 - Tool 3: Let Go of Being Understood Immediately
21:45 - Tool 4: Stop Managing Their Reaction
22:20 - Tool 5: Build New Safe Spaces (Relational Oxygen)
23:27 - When Distance Is Wise (Boundaries, Not Punishment)
24:42 - Stay Grounded in Who You’re Becoming
27:11 - Next Week: Reconstruction vs Deconstruction (Which Is Harder?)
27:44 - Hockey Sidebar: Team USA Beats Canada + “Won It for Johnny”
28:37 - Closing: You’re Loved (Nothing You Can Do About It)
In this episode of Two Pastors And A Mic, we tackle one of the hardest (and most freeing) parts of the faith journey: what it looks like to follow Jesus without needing to be certain about everything.
A lot of us were formed in environments where certainty = faith… where having the “right answer” felt like safety, belonging, and control. But when deconstruction (or just honest questions) starts pulling at those threads, it can feel like you’re losing your footing—even when you’re actually gaining clarity.
So we talk about the sin of certainty, why black-and-white theology feels stabilizing, and why learning to live in the “gray” isn’t weakness—it might actually be the strongest version of faith.
We unpack:
Why uncertainty often feels like “stuckness” (Stuck 2.0)
How seminary trained many of us to respond instead of think
A real-time example of cognitive dissonance (who actually killed Goliath?)
The difference between certainty and trust
3 practical ways to live a faith that stays present, relational, and curious
Why questions don’t mean you’re losing faith—they might mean you’re growing
If you’ve ever thought, “If I’m not sure… am I still a Christian?” — this one’s for you.
👇 Drop a comment: What’s one area where you’re learning to hold faith without needing certainty?
00:00 - Welcome Back + Like/Subscribe
01:19 - Quick Recap: The “26 Life” + Deconstruction Series
03:16 - Today’s Topic: Faith Without Certainty
03:48 - “The Sin of Certainty” + Learning/Unlearning/Relearning
04:55 - Uncertainty = Stuck 2.0 (Why It Feels So Hard)
05:48 - Seminary Training: Answers Over Nuance
07:18 - “How to Respond” vs “How to Think”
08:25 - Why Black-and-White Feels Safer Than Gray
09:35 - Who Killed Goliath? A Real-Time Certainty Test
11:20 - Apologetics Reframed: Defending Your Life, Not Arguments
12:56 - Why Dogmatism (Even About Grace) Is a Trap
13:15 - Losing Certainty Feels Like Losing Footing
14:30 - Certainty Impacts Emotional Security + Belonging
15:32 - Certainty as Control + Fear of Uncertainty
17:46 - Cognitive Dissonance: Why We Double Down
20:06 - Uncertainty: Losing Control, Gaining Freedom
20:55 - Certainty vs Trust (Answers vs Relationship)
22:07 - Faith Without Certainty: 3 Practices
22:12 - Stay Present Instead of Forcing Conclusions
23:01 - Let Relationship Lead Before Explanation
23:47 - Choose Curiosity Over Defensiveness
25:02 - Identity Attachment: Why Disagreement Feels Personal
26:06 - Signs You’re Growing: Calm, Curious, “I Don’t Know”
27:57 - Presence Over Proof + Belonging Over Being Right
28:30 - When Beliefs Shift, Relationships Strain
29:32 - You’re Not Losing Faith—You’re Carrying It Differently
30:12 - Next Week Tease: Navigating Relationships When You Change
30:35 - Closing: You’re Loved (Nothing You Can Do About It)
In today’s conversation, we’re talking about something almost everyone has to rebuild at some point—trust.
If you’ve been dismissed, disappointed, shunned, or wounded by church culture, you know how quickly trust can fracture… not just with people, but with yourself and even with God. So we break it down like a three-legged stool:
✅ rebuilding trust with others
✅ rebuilding trust with yourself
✅ rebuilding trust with God
And then we get super practical by unpacking Brené Brown’s “BRAVING” framework—a simple but powerful way to name exactly what was broken, so you can actually rebuild it with clarity (instead of vague “I just don’t trust you anymore” statements).
Drop a comment: Which part of trust is hardest for you to rebuild—trusting others, trusting yourself, or trusting God?
00:00 - Welcome + quick housekeeping (reviews, sharing)
02:57 - The “2:6 Life” theme for 2026 (1 John 2:6)
03:35 - Recap: deconstruction, stuckness, and staying tender
04:18 - Today’s focus: rebuilding trust (self, others, God)
05:24 - The “three-legged stool” of trust (how each affects the others)
06:02 - Why trust matters: you weren’t meant to live isolated
07:01 - Trust in church spaces: “You don’t have to trust us” + earning trust
08:05 - Trust is rebuilt through experience, not explanation
09:28 - What betrayal/broken trust actually breaks (and why wording matters)
13:15 - Nuance: disagreement vs dishonor vs relationship removal
15:27 - Layer 1: rebuilding trust with leaders/communities
16:24 - Layer 2: rebuilding trust with yourself (discernment + red flags)
17:29 - Layer 3: rebuilding trust with God (prayer, numbness, expectations)
18:57 - What trust is (and what trust is NOT)
20:13 - Introducing Brené Brown’s “BRAVING” framework
21:34 - B — Boundaries (doors with hinges, not walls)
22:54 - R — Reliability (do what you say you’ll do)
23:50 - A — Accountability (own it, apologize, make amends)
24:44 - V — Vault (confidentiality + why it matters)
29:34 - I — Integrity (values in action, courage over comfort)
29:59 - N — Non-judgment (ask for what you need without shame)
30:29 - G — Generosity (most generous interpretation / benefit of the doubt)
31:39 - BRAVING recap + why specificity helps rebuild trust
32:02 - Next week teaser: living faith without certainty (“the sin of certainty”)
32:21 - Closing encouragement + “you’re loved” outro
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, we keep walking out what we’re calling the 2:6 Life - Anyone who claims to live in Him must live as Jesus did” (1 John 2:6). And today we go straight into a tension a lot of us feel after deconstruction, church hurt, or betrayal:
How do you protect your heart…without closing it off completely?
Because for many of us, cynicism starts to feel like wisdom. It promises we won’t be surprised again, disappointed again, or fooled again. But over time, cynicism doesn’t just guard the wound—it can quietly starve the heart: connection, wonder, curiosity, hope.
So we talk about the difference between:
Discernment vs. distancing
Wise boundaries vs. emotional retreat
Self-protection vs. staying tender
And we get super practical with real-life examples—how cynicism shows up in relationships, leadership, church spaces, and even the way we interpret “good” stories. We also give a few ways to stay tender without being naive—because tenderness isn’t fragility… it’s availability (with boundaries).
If you’ve ever felt yourself growing colder, pulling back, or assuming the worst just to stay safe… this one’s for you.
00:00 - Welcome to Two Pastors and a Mic (Episode 264)
00:46 - The 2:6 Life Theme: Living Like Jesus (1 John 2:6)
01:33 - Quick Recap: Deconstruction + Feeling Stuck
02:09 - Today’s Topic: Protect Your Heart Without Closing It
03:10 - Cynicism vs Tenderness: The Heart Posture Tension
04:37 - Why Cynicism Creeps In After Church Hurt
05:50 - Discernment or Cynicism? Processing the Difference
07:19 - What Cynicism Promises: No Surprise, No Disappointment, No Fooling
08:21 - Real-Life Example: “What’s the Catch?” When Good Things Happen
10:33 - Discernment vs Distancing: Staying Present vs Staying Safe
11:46 - How Hearts Harden: Disappointment Fatigue
13:50 - Polished Answers + Emotional Retreat (Not Strength)
14:13 - Why Tenderness Feels Dangerous After Betrayal
15:53 - Tenderness Isn’t Fragility: It’s Availability + Boundaries
16:31 - Real-Life Example: Naming Hurt Calmly Instead of Disappearing
17:42 - Tenderness Heals: Cynicism Shrinks, Tenderness Expands
19:35 - Practical Steps: Stay Curious Longer Than Certain
21:01 - Let Disappointment Teach You, Not Define You
21:37 - Speak Honestly Without Rehearsing Your Exit
22:28 - Counseling Story: One Foot In, One Foot Out
24:05 - The Invitation: Stay Reachable to Goodness Again
24:52 - Tenderness + Boundaries: Wise Without Being Cold
25:40 - Next Week Tease: Trusting God and Trusting Yourself Again
25:54 - Wrap-Up: Cynicism Robs Connection
What do you do when you feel stuck?
You’ve awakened to union. You’ve deconstructed beliefs that used to shape your life. You have clarity of thought… but not clarity of direction. And the weird part is: you don’t want to go back — you just don’t know how to move forward.
In this episode, we unpack 5 common reasons people get stuck after deconstruction (and why it’s not failure), plus real-life examples of what “stuckness” can look like when your beliefs have changed faster than your life knows how to hold it.
We also talk about:
Why being stuck isn’t laziness — it might be wisdom
The difference between deconstruction and formation
How losing a framework can feel like losing belonging
Why Sundays can feel “empty” (and how to reframe what Sundays are for)
Hypervigilance, certainty addiction, and scanning for what’s wrong
How stuckness often ends… when striving ends
And we close with a reframe that might change everything:
Maybe the question isn’t “How do I get unstuck?”
Maybe it’s “What is this season teaching me to release?”
00:00 - Welcome + Like/Subscribe
00:38 - IU Football Wins the National Championship
01:31 - Leadership Lessons From IU’s Turnaround
02:22 - 2026 Life + Union After Deconstruction
02:57 - Today’s Topic: What to Do When You Feel Stuck
03:45 - Stuckness Isn’t More Learning—It’s Living Differently
05:12 - Common “Stuck” Thoughts People Carry
06:15 - Reason #1: Awareness Grew Faster Than Wisdom
10:26 - Reason #2: Lost the Old Framework Before Building a New One
13:56 - Reason #3: Deconstruction Isn’t the Same as Formation
15:41 - Reason #4: Lost External Permission Before Internal Trust
17:14 - Reason #5: Afraid to Rebuild Anything That Resembles the Old Life
20:46 - Reassurance: Feeling Stuck Isn’t Failure
21:51 - “The Meantime Is a Time” + Unlearning the Rush
22:34 - Example #1: Not Arguing Anymore—Just Quieter
23:50 - Example #2: Less Reactive… But Feeling Less Passionate
24:46 - Example #3: Stopped Fixing People—Now What’s My Role?
25:47 - Example #4: Want Community Without the Old Rules
27:16 - Example #5: Waiting Isn’t Laziness—It’s Wisdom
28:48 - Better Question: What Is This Season Teaching Me?
30:16 - When Striving Ends, Stuckness Often Ends
30:43 - Map vs. Compass: Learning to Walk Without Certainty
31:12 - Grace, Patience, and Staying Open to the Spirit
32:02 - Next Episode: Staying Tender Without Becoming Cynical
32:50 - Closing: You’re Loved (Nothing You Can Do About It)
Deconstruction can feel like freedom… until the relief wears off.
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, Cory and Channock talk honestly about what really changes after deconstruction — and what often doesn’t. Because many of us have shifted our beliefs about God, the Bible, hell, the devil, and faith… but still find ourselves stuck in the same emotional patterns we learned in the system we left.
You might think differently now… but still feel anxious, responsible, pressured, or lonely.
In this conversation, you’ll hear:
🧩 Why deconstruction is healthy — and why it’s often necessary
❤️ The real question: do you love better after deconstruction?
🔄 What does change: your opinions, language, and questions
🧠 What often doesn’t change: nervous system patterns, attachment styles, shame responses
😰 The four common “stuck” places after deconstruction:
If you’ve ever wondered, “Why do I still feel the same even though I believe something different now?” — this episode will help you name what’s happening and remind you: you’re not broken, you’re not behind, and you didn’t do deconstruction wrong.
👉 Like / Subscribe / Share
💬 Comment below: What changed for you after deconstruction — and what still feels hard?
00:00 - Welcome + Like/Share/Subscribe
00:34 - Why Sharing Creates Better Conversations
01:44 - Today’s Topic: Deconstruction—What Changed and What Didn’t
02:04 - IU vs Miami National Championship Predictions
03:41 - Revisiting the “2:6 Life” + Galatians 5:6
04:53 - Why Deconstruction Matters: Does It Make You More Loving?
06:35 - After the Relief: Why Deconstruction Can Still Feel “Off”
07:44 - New Beliefs, Same Patterns: Emotional Systems & Survival Habits
08:42 - The Goal: Living With What You Know Now
09:20 - What Changed (1): Opinions Shift (Curiosity, Nuance, Less Certainty)
10:50 - What Changed (2): Language Shifts (“The Bible clearly says…,” “God told me…”)
12:37 - What Changed (3): Better Questions (Truth, Identity, Love)
13:30 - What Didn’t Change: Nervous System Patterns & Attachment Responses
14:28 - Didn’t Change (1): Feeling Responsible for Others’ Feelings
16:06 - Didn’t Change (2): Pressure to Get It Right (Certainty as Safety)
18:15 - Didn’t Change (3): Worth Tied to Usefulness (Overfunctioning, Guilt in Rest)
20:37 - Didn’t Change (4): Loneliness Even With Better Beliefs
24:50 - The Hard Part: Being Isolated After Belief Shifts
25:04 - You’re Not Broken: This Is the Next Layer (Notice, Don’t Fix)
26:56 - Next Episode Tease: Why We Feel Stuck After Waking Up
27:53 - Closing: You’re Loved
Welcome back to Two Pastors and a Mic — and welcome to 2026.
In this first episode of the new year, Cory and Channock kick off what we’re calling “The 2:6 Life” (1 John 2:6): “If anyone claims to live in Him, they must live as Jesus lived.” But instead of turning that verse into pressure, performance, or behavior modification… we talk about what it looks like to live from union — and to actually integrate what you already know.
Because a lot of us don’t need more information… we need transformation that shows up in our relationships, our pace, our nervous system, and the way we carry ourselves in the world.
In this episode, we unpack Jesus’ inner posture through the “Four UNs”:
UNOFFENDED (not reactive, not self-protective)
UNHUSTLED (moving at the speed of trust)
UNAFRAID OF SCARCITY (no striving, no lack mindset)
UNMANAGED BY PEOPLE’S REACTIONS (not controlled by praise or criticism)
And we set up where we’re headed next: learning how to live with what you already know, and unlearning versions of “godliness” that were really just survival.
If you’ve ever felt exhausted by spiritual pressure… or you’re hungry to follow Jesus in a way that feels grounded, free, and real — this one’s for you.
Like, share, and subscribe — and if you know someone who needs a fresh start to the year, send this episode to them.
00:08 - Welcome + Where You’re Watching From
00:25 - Like/Share/Subscribe + Help Spread the Podcast
00:56 - Why We Started: A Resource Off the Stage
01:13 - Cory’s Sick + First Episode of 2026
01:33 - The “2:6 Life” as the 2026 Theme
01:46 - Shift for 2026: Integration, Not Just More Theology
02:08 - “Apply What You Already Know” (Bible + Union)
02:51 - Knowledge Puffs Up, Love Builds Up
03:37 - 1 John 2:6: “Live as Jesus Did”
04:10 - Inspired vs. Exhausted: Two Ways People Hear It
04:48 - Why It Feels Exhausting: Behavior Modification & Performance
05:13 - WWJD Bracelets + Honesty About Shame-Based Religion
05:55 - Union Changes Everything: Obedience From Intimacy
07:10 - Love First: 1 John 4:16–17 + “We Is Risen” Callback
08:10 - Not Copying Jesus—Sharing His Life
08:22 - Why Jesus Was So Attractive: Inner Posture
09:31 - Trust in the Father + Nervous System Question
10:02 - Does Trust Feel Like Peace or Pressure?
11:06 - The Body Keeps the Score + Religious Trauma
11:47 - The Four “UNs” of Jesus’ Inner Posture
12:21 - UNOFFENDED: Not Driven by Insults or Self-Protection
14:30 - UNHUSTLED: The Speed of Trust (No Hurry)
16:33 - Hustle Isn’t Faithfulness: Demand Doesn’t Direct Jesus
17:02 - UNAFRAID OF SCARCITY: No Striving, No Lack Mentality
19:00 - UNMANAGED by People’s Reactions: Praise & Criticism
20:24 - Recap: The Four UNs + Living the 2:6 Life
20:51 - Walking Like Jesus = Trusting His Source
21:47 - What’s Next: Living With What You Know + Unlearning Survival “Godliness”
22:18 - Upcoming Topics: Trauma Responses, Mourning Loss, Unforced Rhythms of Grace
22:35 - Closing: You’re Loved + Music Outro
Happy New Year!
In this special recap episode, Cory and Channock kick off 2026 by looking back on a wild, emotional, growth-filled 2025. We celebrate wins, share honest behind-the-scenes moments, talk about what we’re carrying into the new year, and name what we’re wrestling with as leaders, husbands, dads, and pastors.
From podcast milestones (downloads, top episodes, consistency) to personal wins (books, ministry moments, RELife homes, and the launch of Zoay Intensive), this episode is a reminder that showing up matters — and that hope is still on the table.
✅ Like / Subscribe / Share (especially to start the year)
⭐ Leave a review if the podcast has helped you
💬 Comment below: What’s one win from your 2025 — and what are you hoping for in 2026?
00:08 - Welcome Back + Happy New Year (2026)
00:32 - Matching Sweatshirts + Shoutout to Lakata
00:59 - Why This Yearly Recap Is Happening Now
01:32 - Thank You to Listeners + Start of Year Six
01:54 - Share the Episode to Kick Off the Year
02:19 - Cory’s “Verse for the Year” + The 26 Life (1 John 2:6)
04:19 - Laugh/Cry/Celebrate: The Heart of the Recap Episode
05:01 - Biggest Win: Consistency (Showing Up Every Week)
06:18 - The “Sustaining” Season of Life
06:49 - Podcast Wins: Downloads, Growth, and 100K Milestone
08:07 - Most-Listened Series: “Let’s Talk About Hell” + Shane Willard
08:52 - Cory’s 2025 Personal Wins (Books, eBooks, Sacred Undoing, Zoay Intensive)
10:55 - Channock’s 2025 Wins (20 Years, Book Release, RELife Progress)
14:01 - Family & Life Wins (Kids, Relationships, Soccer Success)
15:41 - Supporting RELife: Housing Initiative for Single Moms
16:36 - Favorite Podcast Episode of 2025 (Channock)
17:13 - Cory’s Favorite Episode: “The Avocado Miracle”
18:25 - Favorite Hill City Sermon/Series of 2025
20:48 - Big Question: What Are You Wrestling With Entering 2026?
21:09 - Channock: Leadership Growth, Uncertainty, and Rest
23:24 - Cory: Taking Time Before Goals + Releasing “Quit” Language
24:00 - Cory Opens Up: The Hardest Three Months + Choosing Joy
26:50 - Closing: Share, Review, and You’re Loved (Outro Music)
What if real strength isn’t found in winning arguments—but in knowing when to lay down your rights?
In this New Year’s Eve episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, Cory and Channock close out 2025 by unpacking one of Jesus’ most misunderstood teachings: meekness. Drawing from Cory’s final eBook, How to Sheath Your Sword in a Violent Loving Culture, they explore why meekness is not weakness, but strength under control—and why it may be the posture Christians need most in a polarized world.
You’ll hear:
⚔️ Why “Blessed are the meek” was a radical, counter-cultural statement
🗡️ What Jesus was really teaching when He told His disciples to bring swords
❤️ How defending Jesus often does more harm than good
🌍 The difference between seizing power and inheriting it
🤝 Why love—not force—is the way of Christ in a culture addicted to domination
This conversation invites you to reflect on how you show up in relationships, online spaces, and cultural tension—and what it might look like to enter 2026 with humility, restraint, and courage shaped by love.
📘 Download Cory’s FREE eBooks (all 12) → saintsnotsinners.com
🎧 Explore past episodes & resources → hillcity.tv
💬 Join the conversation: Like, share, subscribe, and leave a review
00:00 - Welcome + New Year’s Eve intro
00:41 - Five years in: favorite parts of the podcast
01:15 - Why archived episodes/resources matter
02:03 - Most-listened series: “Who Is the Devil?” + “Let’s Talk About Hell”
03:18 - Final eBook episode: How to Sheathe Your Sword in a Violent Loving Culture
03:58 - Meekness: a misunderstood Beatitude (and Cory’s tattoo)
04:42 - The cost of modern war: drones, missiles, and “the tension”
06:11 - “Our Christian identity must trump our American identity”
07:29 - Why meekness challenged Cory’s American-Christian framework
08:15 - “A Christmas Sheath” series + definition: strength under control
09:52 - Meekness ≠ weakness: power submitted to love
10:35 - “Sell your cloak and buy a sword”: what Jesus meant
11:08 - Two swords, eleven disciples, Roman soldiers… and “That’s enough”
12:06 - Peter cuts the ear: Jesus heals (the last miracle before the cross)
13:29 - Defending Jesus online: social media as modern sword-swinging
14:08 - Why Jesus rebukes Peter: learning strength under control
14:27 - “Jesus taught them how not to use swords”
14:29 - Tertullian quote: “Christ disarmed all Christians for all time”
14:55 - “Swinging the sword is easy; sheathing it takes strength”
15:12 - Inherit vs seize: Caesar’s way vs Christ’s way
15:51 - Donkey vs warhorse: Palm Sunday symbolism + “Hosanna”
16:43 - Once you see meekness, you can’t unsee it
17:00 - Go download the eBook (meekness in real life)
17:49 - Reflection questions: where you’re tempted to “draw the sword”
18:24 - Closing encouragement for 2026: strength that shows love
19:16 - Resources for listeners + Zoay Intensive mention
19:52 - Sign-off: “You’re loved—and there’s nothing you can do about it”
What if prayer was never meant to be a religious performance—and prophecy was never meant to be scary?
In this Christmas Eve episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, Cory and Channock reflect on five years of podcasting and dive into Cory’s eBook How to Pray and Prophesy in the New Covenant. Together, they reframe prayer and prophecy through the lens of union, showing how both flow naturally from awareness, relationship, and love—not fear, formulas, or pressure.
This conversation is an invitation to slow down during the holidays and rediscover prayer as something you live, not something you try to get right.
You’ll hear:
🎄 Reflections on Christmas, gratitude, and memorable gifts
☕ Why a temperature-controlled mug became a parable for awareness
🔥 How “union” radically changed Cory’s prayer life
🙏 Why prayer is less about asking and more about awareness, rest, and participation
🎨 The 5 expressions of prayer: awareness, rest, pondering, play, and participation
👨👦 A powerful picture of prayer through a father-and-son story
🕊️ What prophecy really is (and isn’t): revealing Jesus through encouragement
📖 Paul’s simple test for prophecy: strengthen, encourage, comfort (1 Cor. 14:3)
🤝 Why prophetic words invite partnership—not passive waiting
💬 How anyone can be prophetic by offering love, hope, and presence
This episode will help you release fear-based spirituality and step into a prayer life marked by peace, trust, and joy—right in the middle of the Christmas season.
Resources from this episode:
👉 Check out Cory's website → saintsnotsinners.com
📚 Explore all free eBooks & resources → https://coryrice.gumroad.com
🌐 Connect with us → hillcity.tv
00:00 - Christmas Eve Welcome + Gratitude
00:18 - Celebrating 5 Years of the Podcast
01:08 - Like/Share/Subscribe + “Most Memorable Gift?”
01:26 - Cory’s Favorite Gift: The Ember Mug (Coffee at 138°)
03:11 - Channock’s Gift Story + “Experiences are better than Things”
05:46 - Intro to Week 11 eBook: Pray & Prophesy in the New Covenant
06:40 - Union Wrecked My Prayer Life (From Checklist to Conversation)
08:53 - Five Reframes: Prayer as Awareness, Rest, Pondering, Play, Participation
10:27 - The Power of Silence, Solitude, and Realignment
12:28 - Why the Disciples Asked Jesus How to Pray
14:00 - “Hey Dad, Can You Help?” A Simple Prayer Picture
15:24 - Prayer as Awareness, Prophecy as Expression
16:05 - Redefining Prophecy: Revealing Jesus
16:55 - The Test of Prophecy: Strengthen, Encourage, Comfort (1 Cor. 14:3)
18:03 - Prophetic Words Require Participation, Not Passive Waiting
19:52 - “Let’s Do It Together”: God Works Through Us
21:05 - Stop Chasing Prophecy—Become Encouragement to Others
22:19 - Prophecy Flows From Union + Get the eBook
22:38 - Reflection Questions + Practical Challenge for Christmas
23:42 - Merry Christmas + Next Week’s Final Episode of 2025
24:01 - Closing: “You Are Loved (Nothing You Can Do About It)”
What if hearing from God was never about chasing a voice—but awakening to the One already speaking within you?
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, Cory and Channock unpack Cory’s eBook How to Hear From God, addressing one of the most common—and most anxiety-producing—questions in the Christian life. Together they dismantle fear-based spirituality, unspook the Holy Spirit, and offer a deeply relational, peace-filled framework for recognizing God’s voice in everyday life.
This conversation is especially for anyone who’s ever wondered, “Am I doing this right?” or felt insecure comparing how God “speaks” to others.
You’ll hear:
🕊️ Why hearing God isn’t mystical or mechanical—it’s relational
🌊 How peace and the fruit of the Spirit are the clearest indicators of God’s voice
🧠 The difference between the Spirit’s voice and the inner critic (and how spiritual trauma confuses the two)
🔑 Why union means God’s voice often sounds like your voice
📖 A fresh lens on “the deceitful heart” and trusting yourself in Christ
🌱 The 10 “W” ways God speaks—and why they look different for everyone
🔥 How to unlearn fear-based religion and relearn divine intimacy
💬 Reflection questions to help you practice listening with confidence, not pressure
This episode invites you to stop striving, start trusting, and remember: you’re never guessing alone—Christ is in you.
Resources from this episode:
👉 Check out Cory's website → saintsnotsinners.com
📚 Explore all free eBooks & resources → https://coryrice.gumroad.com
🌐 Connect with us → hillcity.tv
00:00 - Welcome + Like/Share/Subscribe
00:39 - Reviews + How to Reach Us (Email/Questions)
00:47 - GAN Network Update + Episode 257 + Christmas Banter
01:19 - Intro to Cory’s eBooks + Why This Topic Matters
02:03 - Today’s Topic: How to Hear From God
02:38 - Shoutout Don Keathley + Why This Question Is So Common
03:31 - Key Line: “Hearing God isn’t mystical or mechanical—it’s relational”
05:05 - Why It’s Confusing: No One-Size-Fits-All + Peace as a Sign
06:41 - A New Framework: Sermon on the Mount + Fruit of the Spirit
07:28 - Spiritual Trauma + Misusing “God told me”
08:17 - Inner Critic vs. God’s Voice (Hillary McBride Insight)
08:54 - The 10 “W” Ways God Speaks (Overview)
09:39 - Two Big Ones: Witness of Peace + Waves of Thought
10:54 - Wisdom + Multitude of Counselors (Avoiding Confirmation Bias)
11:54 - “You Should Trust Yourself” Sermon + Union With the Spirit
12:52 - “Deceitful” Heart vs. “Mysterious” Heart (Jeremiah Reframe)
13:30 - Unspooking the Holy Spirit: The Five C’s
14:38 - Reading the Closing: “There’s No Separation” (Union + Rhythm)
16:17 - Union Changes Prayer + Unlearning Spiritual Trauma
17:40 - Encouragement to Download the eBook
18:26 - Reflection Questions + Final Charge
19:36 - Sign Off: “You are loved—and there’s nothing you can do about it.”
What if real evangelism was never meant to feel like selling… but like loving?
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, Cory and Channock unpack Cory’s free eBook “How to Understand the Gospel and Share It Effectively.” They challenge the old pressure-driven models of church outreach and invite listeners into a relational, grace-based vision of evangelism rooted in identity, belonging, and reconciliation.
This episode is all about clearing the fog around the gospel and rediscovering the heart behind sharing it — not urgency, not assignments, not agenda… but presence, peace, and people.
You’ll hear:
🔥 Why the gospel doesn’t demand your faith — it supplies it
⚖️ The difference between retribution-based judgment and restoration-based justice
🌱 Why success starts in identity, not hustle or hurry
👥 How evangelism becomes toxic when people turn into assignments
❤️ The scandalous truth: Jesus accepted you — before you ever accepted Him
📜 Why we were created in Christ, not Adam
💧 The 5 keys to sharing the gospel without pressure:
🧠 Reflection questions that help you rethink how you see people and share good news
If you’ve ever felt crushed by performance Christianity or confused by the point of sharing the gospel in a union-based faith, this episode will help you breathe deeper and believe better.
👉 Check out Cory's website → saintsnotsinners.com
📚 Explore all free eBooks & resources → https://coryrice.gumroad.com
🌐 Connect with us → hillcity.tv
00:00 - Intro & Welcome
00:08 - Same Clothes Joke
00:19 - Pre-Recording Explanation
00:25 - Shoutout: Harrison in Hawaii
00:38 - Like, Share, Subscribe
00:46 - Podcast Review Celebration
01:01 - Thank You to Listeners
01:07 - Review Requests & Contacting Us
01:32 - eBook Series Overview
02:26 - When Success Felt Worthless
03:00 - Control What You Can Create
03:26 - Children’s Book Promo Tension
03:43 - Christmas Stocking Stuffers Fun
04:10 - Introducing Today’s Topic
04:44 - What Is Evangelism?
05:02 - Early Union Conversations
05:22 - Evangelism as Reconciliation
06:19 - Fear-Based Gospel vs. Pressure
07:11 - Purpose of Writing This eBook
08:34 - Belief Doesn’t Make It True
09:31 - God Accepted You First
10:13 - The Masterpiece Origin
10:39 - Created in Christ, Not Adam
11:00 - What Is Salvation, Really?
12:09 - Saved For Something
12:30 - Gospel Isn’t Sales, It’s Living
13:05 - The Beautiful Gospel Lens
14:01 - Reconciliation Is Your Ministry
15:18 - Calling the Sun Out in People
16:25 - 5 Keys to Sharing the Gospel
16:28 - #1 Lead with Relationship
16:39 - #2 Let Curiosity Lead
17:02 - #3 Share Stories, Not Just Scriptures
17:13 - #4 Let the Spirit Set the Pace
17:32 - #5 Model the Kingdom First
17:41 - Understanding Gospel Takes the Pressure Off
19:30 - Listener Reflection Questions
20:01 - Final Encouragement & Love Reminder
21:22 - Sword-Sheathing eBook Mention
21:32 - Outro Sign-Off
21:43 - You Are Loved Closing
What if the best thing you could give your kids wasn’t money—but emotional wholeness?
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, Cory and Channock unpack Cory’s favorite eBook, How to Be Emotionally Whole, and dive into what it actually looks like to do the inner work that breaks generational cycles. Thanksgiving may have just passed, but this conversation is timeless - because healthy friendships, marriages, families, and leadership all flow from a well-tended soul.
You’ll hear:
🧡 How one moment in adoption reframed judgment, identity, and purpose
💪 Why physical + mental fitness matter for the long haul of parenting
👁 The honest tension of wanting to run, but choosing to remain present
💧 The true meaning of “sitting in the well” — it’s not fixing, filtering, or escaping… it’s feeling
🔁 The core cycle that shapes so many lives: Event → Lie → Defense → Reaction
📅 The power of setting reminders, embracing limits, and following through
🕊 Why healing makes you compassionate, not superior
This episode will invite you to take one small step toward emotional freedom and stay rooted in the call God has placed in you.
👉 Check out Cory's website → saintsnotsinners.com
📚 Explore all free eBooks & resources → https://coryrice.gumroad.com
🌐 Connect with us → hillcity.tv
00:00 - Welcome Back & How to Support the Podcast
01:16 - New Listener Review & Thinking Deeply
02:23 - A Year of eBooks & December Release
03:10 - Preview: “How to Sheath Your Sword in a Violent Culture”
03:54 - Cory’s Favorite eBook: How to Be Emotionally Whole
04:39 - Why Emotional & Mental Health Matter
06:10 - “Would You Die for Your Kids… or Live for Them?”
08:36 - A Brutal November & Staying Present in Pain
10:30 - Wanting to Run Away vs Remaining Present
11:51 - ZLD Course, Doctorate Project & Emotional Health Tools
13:21 - What “Sitting in the Well” Really Means
18:19 - Event → Lie → Defense → Reaction (The Core Cycle)
21:41 - Reflection Questions for Your Emotional Work
23:40 - eBook, eCourse & Zoay Intensive Cohort Invitation
25:06 - Gratitude for Listeners & Final Blessing
What if the greatest gift you could give this Thanksgiving… was your friendship? 🤝🧡
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, Cory and Channock dive into Cory’s eBook How to Be a Great Friend - a simple but powerful guide to building the kind of friendships that actually make life richer, lighter, and more meaningful.
This week isn’t about theology; it’s about relationships - the people who make us who we are.
You’ll hear:
🦃 Thanksgiving laughs, food debates, and family updates
🤣 The hilarious “bra ice pack” recovery hack for wisdom teeth
💛 The most underrated quality of a great friend (and why it matters)
👣 Why being present is far more important than being perfect
🧩 The 5 “Be” qualities that build strong friendships (consistent, vulnerable, appreciative, fun, intentional)
🎯 How to restore broken relationships with humility and honesty
📱 The smartphone trick that helps you become a more thoughtful friend
💬 Why texting “I’m thankful for you because…” might change someone’s entire week
This episode will challenge how you show up for your people - and inspire you to become the kind of friend you’ve always needed.
👉 Check out Cory's website → saintsnotsinners.com
📚 Explore all free eBooks & resources → https://coryrice.gumroad.com
🌐 Connect with us → hillcity.tv
00:00 - Thanksgiving Week Intro & Shout-Outs
01:00 - Sharing Reviews, Ratings & Listener Gratitude
01:45 - Thanksgiving Food Talk & Family Plans
02:45 - Lions Game + Holiday Banter
03:26 - Introducing This Week’s eBook: How to Be a Great Friend
04:40 - Month From Hell Reflections & Gratitude for Friendship
05:32 - Wisdom Teeth Story & The Bra Ice Pack Hack
06:01 - The Most Underrated Quality of a Great Friend: Be Unoffendable
07:38 - Channock’s Pick: The Power of Presence
09:14 - Five Ways to Be a Great Friend
10:57 - Why Intentionality Makes Friendships Great
12:55 - Thanksgiving Challenge: “I’m Thankful for You Because…”
14:19 - Five Ways to Build Curiosity in Friendship
16:27 - Using Technology to Remember & Follow Through
17:32 - Restoring Broken Friendships & The Power of “I’m Sorry”
19:14 - Vulnerability, Seasons, and Grace in Friendship
21:06 - Reflection Questions for the Listener
22:01 - Final Encouragement & Thanksgiving Blessing
22:24 - Closing: You’re Loved, and There’s Nothing You Can Do About It
What if perfection wasn’t about behaving flawlessly - but about expressing mercy from who you already are?
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, Cory and Channock unpack the eBook How to Be Perfect, and they flip the entire idea of perfection on its head. Instead of moral pressure and performance, they explore Jesus’ teaching that perfection looks like mercy, not mastery - and how experiencing God’s love transforms the way we express it to others.
You’ll hear:
💫 Why “be perfect” in Matthew 5 actually means “be merciful” in Luke 6
💛 How perfection is something you experience through Christ, not achieve
🪞 Why expressing mercy is the truest evidence of spiritual maturity
🎉 The Prodigal Son: “He heard the dancing” - and what that means for Christians today
👁️ What it means to be “pure in heart” and see people as God sees them
🌱 The 3 I’s of Kingdom Living: Identity, Inheritance, Influence
🔥 The four ways you reflect God’s nature: creating, giving, restoring, sustaining
This episode will challenge your definition of perfection, free you from performance, and help you live from the mercy that’s already in you.
👉 Check out Cory's website → saintsnotsinners.com
📚 Explore all free eBooks & resources → https://coryrice.gumroad.com
🌐 Connect with us → hillcity.tv
00:00 - Intro & Listener Shout-outs
01:30 - Back in the Booth + Cancun Recap
01:50 - Free eBooks & November Release (Prayer & Prophecy)
03:15 - What’s Next? Clarity, Content & RElife Focus
04:40 - RElife Update: Affordable Housing for Single Moms
06:00 - Mom Graduates to Habitat for Humanity
06:46 - Today’s Topic: How to Be Perfect
07:35 - Two E’s: Experience & Express
09:00 - Perfection ≠ Morality; Perfection = Mercy
09:53 - “Be Perfect” = “Be Merciful” (Mt 5:48 / Lk 6:36)
10:53 - Mercy Reframed Through Sonship
15:48 - Mercy as Awareness of Union
16:00 - Prodigal Son: “Heard the Dancing”
17:05 - Do People Hear Your Dancing or Your Critique?
18:00 - Pure in Heart: Seeing People as God Sees
19:58 - Identity, Inheritance, Influence
21:41 - Four Ways We Mirror God: Create, Give, Restore, Sustain
23:42 - Sustaining: The Hard, Unseen Work
26:28 - “Sustaining Becomes Sexy When It’s Celebrated”
27:10 - Reflection Questions & Weekly Challenge
28:50 - Closing: “You’re Loved And There's Nothing You Can Do About It”
What if God’s judgment was never against you - but for you?
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, Cory and Channock unpack one of the most misunderstood topics in Christianity: God’s judgment and wrath. Drawing from Cory’s eBook How to Make Sense of God’s Judgment and Wrath, they explore how God’s justice isn’t retribution - it’s restoration.
You’ll hear:
⚖️ How an adoption story reframed Cory’s entire view of judgment
👁️ Why God’s judgment rescues rather than ruins
🔥 How His wrath burns away lies, not people
🏠 The difference between the courtroom of fear and the living room of love
🕊️ Why perfect love really does cast out fear
💬 Key quotes from Peter Hiett, C. Baxter Krueger, and more that will shift your lens forever
This conversation will help you release fear, embrace freedom, and rediscover God as a loving Father whose judgment is always in your favor.
👉 Check out Cory's website → saintsnotsinners.com
📚 Explore all free eBooks & resources → https://coryrice.gumroad.com
🌐 Connect with us → hillcity.tv
00:00 – Welcome & Opening Banter 🎙️
00:42 – Cancun Trip & Pre-Recording Clarification
01:10 – November eBook Release: How to Pray and Prophesy in the New Covenant
02:04 – Today’s Topic: How to Make Sense of God’s Judgment and Wrath
03:02 – How the Reframe Sermon Series Began
04:18 – Preaching Through Difficult Topics
05:33 – The Goal: Living Without Fear
06:38 – God’s Judgment Can Be For You
07:30 – The Adoption Story: A Life-Changing Revelation ❤️
09:00 – “A Judgment in Our Favor” — What If God’s Judgment Is Too?
10:11 – Rethinking Judgment and Wrath Through the Lens of Love
11:00 – From Courtroom to Living Room: Seeing God as Father
12:13 – Judge Judy vs. Judge Deborah — Two Views of Judgment ⚖️
13:47 – The Judges of Israel: Setting Captives Free
14:35 – God’s Judgment Rescues, It Doesn’t Ruin
15:02 – Key Quotes on Judgment, Wrath, and Love 🔥
16:11 – God’s Wrath Is Restorative, Not Retributive
16:54 – Fire That Refines, Not Destroys
17:56 – The Father’s Heart: From Fear to Freedom
18:55 – The Kitchen Story: Living Without Fear in the Father’s House 🏠
19:57 – Perfect Love Casts Out Fear
20:30 – Reading Scripture Through the Lens of Jesus
21:10 – God’s Essence Is Love and Light ✨
21:50 – The Cross Reveals Love, Not Anger
22:24 – Natural Consequences and the True Meaning of Wrath
22:52 – December eBook Preview: How to Be Meek in a Violent Loving Culture
23:17 – Listener Reflection Questions 💭
23:59 – Closing Thoughts: You Are Loved & There’s Nothing You Can Do About It
What if alignment with God isn’t about striving for connection - but awakening to the union that’s always been there?
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, Cory and Channock dive into the eBook How to Align with I AM, exploring the beautiful truth that there is no separation between you and the Divine. Together, they unpack the mystery of union, the faith of Christ, and how to live in the flow of peace instead of pressure.
You’ll hear:
💫 What it really means to live “in Him” — not just for Him
📖 Why Galatians 2:20 changes everything about faith and identity
🌳 The powerful lesson of the Pando Aspen Grove — 47,000 trees, one root system
🕊️ How to walk at the pace of peace instead of striving for perfection
💧 The three “dams” that block your spiritual flow — and the truths that release it
❤️ Why trusting yourself is actually trusting God within you
This episode will help you breathe deeper, rest easier, and remember: you’re already one with Love.
👉 Check out Cory's website → saintsnotsinners.com
📚 Explore all 12 “How To” eBooks → https://coryrice.gumroad.com
🌐 Connect with us → hillcity.tv
00:00 – Welcome & Birthday Banter 🎉
01:15 – Celebrating Ministry Wins & Nonprofit Update
02:28 – Clarifying Finances & Vision for RElife
03:02 – Podcast Housekeeping: Likes, Shares, Reviews
03:36 – Recap: The “How To” Series & Free Resources
04:00 – Milestone Moment: 250+ Episodes of Two Pastors and a Mic
04:42 – Introducing How to Align with I AM
05:45 – Union: The Core of Everything
06:00 – The Verse That Changed Everything (John 14:20)
06:56 – Favorite Verses on Union (1 John 2:6 & 4:17)
07:52 – “We Is Risen” - The Message of Easter
08:54 – The Invitation to Awaken to Connection
09:48 – Voices & Mentors on Union (Kruger, Young, Englehart, etc.)
10:39 – The Pando Aspen Grove: Nature’s Picture of Union
11:46 – How Faith Works of Christ, Not in Christ (Galatians 2:20)
12:45 – Diving Into the Greek & Discovering a New Lens
13:57 – The Revelation That Changed Cory’s Faith Journey
14:55 – Living by the Faith of the Son - Not Our Own
15:14 – The Gospel Supplies Faith, It Doesn’t Demand It
15:48 – Living in the Flow vs. Forcing Faith
16:32 – Walking at the Pace of Peace 🕊️
17:06 – Jesus’ “Living Water” Teaching and Flowing from Within
17:56 – The Lazy River Analogy: Staying in the Flow
18:55 – Life Happens, Stay in the Flow
19:05 – Union Reveals Jesus Has Always Been Within
19:25 – Impact Without Forcing - The Power of Rested Presence
19:56 – What If You Fully Lived From the Fullness of God?
20:09 – The Three Dams That Block the Flow
21:03 – The Three Truths That Release the Flow
21:42 – The Four Verses Every Believer Should Live By
22:19 – The Song Lyric That Captures Union: “Don’t You Call Unclean…”
22:52 – Reflection Questions on Union & Identity
23:34 – Living from Union: No Separation, Just Love
23:50 – Closing Blessing: You’re Loved, and There’s Nothing You Can Do About It
What if reading the Bible wasn’t about getting it right - but about letting it transform your life?
In this episode of Two Pastors in a Mic, Cory and Channock unpack Cory’s eBook How to Read the Bible. Together they explore what it really means to approach Scripture with curiosity, not certainty - and how understanding covenants, context, and the lens of Jesus changes everything.
You’ll hear:
🔑 Why “The Bible clearly says…” can sometimes block deeper understanding
📜 How to read Scripture through the covenants and the progressive revelation of God
🪞 Why Jesus - not literalism - is the clearest lens for interpretation
📚 The 5 keys to reading the Bible with wisdom, context, and love
❤️ How your reading of Scripture shapes the kind of life - and love - you live
This episode will challenge how you think about Scripture and inspire you to read with freedom, not fear.
👉 Check out Cory's website → saintsnotsinners.com
📚 Explore all free eBooks & resources → https://coryrice.gumroad.com
🌐 Connect with us → hillcity.tv
00:00 – Welcome & Listener Shout-Outs
01:05 – Prayers for Jamaica & Hurricane Update
01:34 – Recap of the “How To” Series and Cory’s 12-eBook Goal
03:05 – Encouragement for Creators: Create Even if Only One Listens
03:29 – Introducing How to Read the Bible
05:04 – Why “The Bible Clearly Says” Can Be Misleading
06:25 – Dogmatic Reading vs. Open-Minded Faith
07:04 – KJV-Onlyism & the Unicorn Example
08:09 – Literalism vs. Contextual Reading
09:14 – How the eBook Came From Teaching in the Netherlands
10:16 – Understanding Covenants & How They Shape Scripture
11:01 – Why So Many People Find the Bible Confusing
11:57 – Tips for Starting and Understanding Scripture
12:09 – Past Hill City Series That Explored New Covenant Truths
13:02 – “Anchored” Series and Being Rooted in Jesus Not Just Scripture
14:04 – How You Read the Bible Shapes Your Life and View of God
15:10 – Introducing the Five Keys to Reading the Bible Well
15:33 – Balancing Love for Scripture and Openness to Growth
16:12 – Confirmation Bias and Seeking Reassurance vs. Truth
17:06 – Approach Scripture with Curiosity Not Certainty
17:24 – Hermeneutics, Exegesis, and Eisgesis Explained
18:01 – Key 1: Understand the Covenants
18:46 – Key 2: God Reveals Himself Progressively
21:06 – Why Contradictions in Scripture Don’t Scare Us
22:29 – Key 3: Jesus Is the Lens of Scripture
23:07 – How Paul Misused Scripture Before Meeting Jesus
23:38 – Mini Debate: Was Saul Really a Murderer?
25:06 – Key 4: The Bible Uses Many Literary Forms
26:39 – Key 5: Scripture Interprets Scripture (It All Connects)
27:51 – Learning Hebrew Idioms and Hidden Meanings
28:26 – Why This eBook Is a Simple 25-Minute Guide
29:31 – Reflection Questions for Personal Study
31:04 – Final Encouragement and Closing Blessing
What if great marriages aren’t found - they’re built?
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, Cory and Channock unpack Cory’s free eBook “How to Have the Marriage You’ve Always Dreamed Of.” Together they explore what it really means to build a healthy, thriving relationship rooted in communication, patience, and kindness - rather than comparison or perfection.
You’ll hear:
💍 Why marriage takes work - but doesn’t have to feel hard
❤️ The real meaning of being “equally yoked” (it’s more than faith labels)
💬 Why unspoken expectations are the silent killer of relationships
😂 A hilarious “love language” story you won’t forget
🔥 How to keep fun, adventure, and connection alive after years together
🧠 10 practical ways to strengthen your marriage and reignite intimacy
Whether you’re single, engaged, or married for decades, this episode will help you see marriage as a living, growing partnership built on grace, communication, and intentionality.
👉 Download How to Have Success Without Climbing the Ladder (Free eBook) → https://coryrice.gumroad.com/l/marriage
📚 Explore all free eBooks & resources → https://coryrice.gumroad.com
🌐 Connect with us → hillcity.tv
00:00 - Intro & Welcome
01:01 - Listener Feedback & Quiet Room Reflections
02:26 - The Reframe Sermon Series Update
03:20 - Transition to Marriage Topic
04:08 - Introducing “How to Have the Marriage You’ve Always Dreamed Of”
05:00 - Why Marriage Takes Work
05:45 - Past Marriage Sermon Series Highlights
07:01 - The Four Knowings of Love (1 Corinthians 13)
07:49 - The Love Languages Story (and a Funny Misunderstanding)
08:43 - The Power of Communication: Timing, Tone, and Turf
09:45 - Communication Is Lubrication
10:30 - Marriage Requires Work & Growth
11:00 - The Most Important Decision You’ll Ever Make
12:02 - Redefining “Unequally Yoked”
13:00 - Three Marriage Phrases That Need Reframing
14:40 - Communication, Expectations, and the Silent Killer of Marriage
16:00 - Root Issues Beneath Finances and Sex
17:02 - The Danger of Comparison
18:42 - Finding Your Normal in Marriage
19:13 - What You Give Determines What You Get
19:45 - Be Fun & Keep Creating Experiences
21:37 - Schedule Margin for Marriage
22:50 - Great Marriages Are Built, Not Found
23:40 - Reflection Questions for Singles & Married Couples
25:00 - Closing Encouragement: Love from a Place of Being Loved
25:17 - You Are Loved (Sign-off)
What if success was never about climbing the ladder - but learning to redefine it altogether?
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, Cory and Channock kick off a brand-new 12-week series walking through Cory’s free eBooks, starting with “How to Have Success Without Climbing the Ladder.” Together they challenge the cultural obsession with achievement, status, and performance, offering a refreshing perspective rooted in identity, peace, and purpose.
You’ll hear:
🪜 Why success isn’t about climbing higher - it’s about going deeper
💭 How to define success for yourself (and why you must write it down)
💬 The power of positive self-talk and believing what God believes about you
👥 Why relationships matter more than recognition
🔥 The story of Bundini Brown and how to find “corner people” who believe in you
⚖️ Ten practical ways to live successfully without hurry, pressure, or comparison
If you’ve ever felt like you’re striving but never arriving, this episode will help you reimagine success through grace, joy, and wholeness.
👉 Download How to Have Success Without Climbing the Ladder (Free eBook) → https://coryrice.gumroad.com/l/howtohavesuccess
📚 Explore all free eBooks & resources → https://coryrice.gumroad.com
🌐 Connect with us → hillcity.tv
00:00 - Intro & Welcome
01:00 - Listener Questions & New Series Setup
02:26 - 12 Free eBooks Overview
03:56 - Why “How to Have Success Without Climbing the Ladder”
05:09 - The Pressure to Perform & Redefining Success
05:29 - How Do You Define Success?
06:31 - Success in Different Life Roles
07:27 - Defining Success as Husband & Father
08:42 - Success as a Pastor
09:29 - Personal Success: Peace & Purpose
10:06 - Step 1: Define Success for Yourself
11:01 - The Five Words That Define Success
11:41 - Most People Link Success to Money
12:49 - Step 2: Know Who You Are (Identity)
13:11 - Step 3: Practice Positive Self-Talk
14:21 - Step 4: Create What You Love
15:23 - Why Everyone Is Creative
16:00 - Do What You Love — And Love What You Do
16:02 - Step 5: Find and Keep the Right Relationships
17:01 - The Story of Bundini Brown & Muhammad Ali
18:07 - Step 6: Stay Curious and Talk Less
18:29 - Step 7: Celebrate Small Victories
18:36 - Step 8: Practice Gratitude and Contentment
19:45 - Step 9: Criticize Less, Affirm More
20:44 - Step 10: Eliminate Hurry from Your Life
21:20 - Success, Margin, and the Bourbon Metaphor
22:22 - Success Is the Journey, Not the Destination
23:37 - Reflection Questions for the Listener
25:00 - You Are Already Enough (Final Encouragement)
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, Cory and Channock close out their series on Enough Already with Chapters 14 & 15 - “Rethinking Church” and “Letting Go of the Mic.” They unpack what it means to be the church beyond Sunday services and how freedom comes when you release the need for performance and control.
You’ll hear:
🏠 How ReLife was born from a dream to serve the community beyond the building
❤️ Why loving without strings attached is the most radical form of church
🕊 The long, messy, and beautiful process of shifting from frustration to fruit
🌎 What it looks like when passion meets purpose in real-world impact
🎤 Why “letting go of the mic” isn’t quitting - it’s trusting God enough to share the stage
This episode will inspire you to see church differently, lead with love, and rest in the freedom of who you already are.
👉 Grab Enough Already on Amazon → https://www.amazon.com/Enough-Already...
📚 Free eBooks & resources → https://coryrice.gumroad.com/
🌐 Connect with us → https://thepowerofre.com
00:00 - Intro & Welcome
01:03 - First Lions Game Recap
02:45 - Book Finale Setup (Ch. 14–15)
03:39 - Banter & Pastor Appreciation
04:12 - Rethinking Church (Ch. 14)
05:24 - Birth of ReLife: Church Beyond Sundays
08:44 - Providence Moment: The Stove Story
10:33 - From 2018 to Now: The Long Process
13:36 - Both/And Church: Serving as “Church”
15:03 - Letting Go of the Mic (Ch. 15)
18:07 - Finale Reading: “Enough Already”
19:30 - Events & Invites
20:23 - You Are Loved (Sign-off)
What if success in ministry isn’t measured by numbers - but by love?
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, Cory and Channock dive into Chapters 12 & 13 of Enough Already - Mind the Fields and Lead with Love, Not Metrics. Together they unpack how healed identity reshapes the way we see people and how redefining success changes the way we lead.
You’ll hear:
🌱 Why every person carries love and divinity - even if they don’t know it
👀 How to see others through the lens of Christ-in-you
🧮 The “whiteboard moment” when metrics were erased for good
❤️ Why stories of care matter more than Sunday numbers
💡 Practical ways to measure success by love, not outcomes
This episode will encourage you to rethink how you see people and how you define success - in ministry, leadership, and life.
👉 Grab Enough Already on Amazon → https://www.amazon.com/Enough-Already...
📚 Free eBooks & resources → https://coryrice.gumroad.com/
🌐 Connect with us → https://thepowerofre.com
00:00 - Welcome Back & Listener Shout-Outs
01:21 - Worship Live Recording Announcement (Nov 18)
03:00 - Why We’re Doing This Series
04:34 - Ch. 12: “Mind the Fields” — Seeing People Differently
06:00 - The Three Fields: People, Provision & Perseverance
08:22 - Christ in Everyone (Acts 17: “God’s Offspring”)
09:20 - Reveal Jesus in People, Not to People
11:53 - Ch. 13: Lead with Love, Not Metrics
15:00 - The Whiteboard Moment: Erasing the Numbers
15:34 - Sunday Is a Part, Not the Pinnacle
16:20 - Measure Stories & Care, Not Attendance
18:00 - Redefining Success Across Ministries
19:47 - Youth Ministry Stories & Lessons
20:52 - Free eBooks & New Release Schedule
21:11 - Closing Challenge: Find Love & Divinity in Everyone
22:01 - “Call No One Unclean” (Acts 10:28)
23:05 - Outro
What if the greatest act of faith isn’t calming the storm - but resting in it?
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, Cory and Channock dive into Chapters 10 & 11 of Enough Already - Margin Saved My Life and Make Your Bed in the Boat. Together they explore the importance of building margin, fighting burnout, and learning to embrace rest as holy, not lazy.
You’ll hear:
🌱 How margin became a lifeline during sabbatical and beyond
📅 Practical tools for scheduling relational, resource, and reflection time
⚡ Why living without margin leads to hurry, burnout, and heaviness
🌊 The Gospel story that redefines faith - not in calming storms, but in joining Jesus at rest
💡 Why rest changes your perspective, your leadership, and your relationships
This episode will encourage you to rethink margin and discover peace in the midst of chaos.
👉 Grab Enough Already on Amazon → https://www.amazon.com/Enough-Already-Private-Performance-Freedom/dp/1966818068
📚 Free eBooks & resources → https://coryrice.gumroad.com/
🌐 Connect with us → https://thepowerofre.com
00:00 - Intro & Audience Feedback
00:28 - Book Promotion & Gratitude
01:00 - Processing While Podcasting
01:28 - Wild Week Recap & Julia’s Sermon
02:00 - Women’s Retreat & Shoutout to Pastor Linda
02:27 - Forgiving Yourself & Practical “4 Rs”
02:34 - Transition to Chapters 10 & 11
03:15 - Chapter 10: Margin Saved My Life
03:42 - Looking Back to Episode 2: “Get You Some”
04:36 - Developing Margin During Sabbatical
05:55 - Leadership Weight During COVID Season
06:42 - Matthew 11:28 and the Call to Rest
07:11 - Tears in the Parking Lot & Ministry Pressure
07:31 - Learning to Create Intentional Margin
08:45 - Fighting the Feeling of Laziness
09:36 - Burnout, Bandwidth & Boundaries
10:07 - Burnout: Who You Do It With Matters
10:46 - How to Schedule Margin Practically
11:46 - The Three Non-Negotiables: Relational, Resource, Reflection Time
12:28 - Importance of Date Nights & Relational Time
13:00 - Resource & Reflection Practices for Renewal
13:58 - Scheduling Margin as Non-Negotiable
14:45 - Book: The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry
15:22 - Slow Living & Easy and Light Living
15:49 - Chapter 11: Make Your Bed in the Boat
16:17 - The Gospel Story of Jesus Sleeping in the Storm
17:19 - The True Act of Faith: Resting with Jesus
18:46 - Learning to Trust the Journey
19:19 - Rest as Holy, Not Lazy
20:41 - Episode 84 Throwback: Boat & Mattress Sermon
21:33 - Rest vs. Laziness & The Importance of Peace
22:11 - Tattoo Story & Rest as a Life Motto
22:34 - Chapter 11 as a Book Turning Point
23:06 - The Shift Toward Peace and Perspective
23:38 - Dance in the Fountain Story from Sabbatical
24:25 - Closing Reflections: Live Light, Live Free
25:34 - Final Encouragement: You Are Loved
What drains the soul and what restores it?
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, Cory and Channock unpack Chapters 8 & 9 of Enough Already - What Brings A Soul Back To Life? and I Can’t Do This Alone. Together, they dive into the impact of social media, division, and image management on the soul, and why honesty, grace, and connection are the real nutrients we all need.
You’ll hear:
💭 Honest reflections on division, leadership, and social media pressure
🤝 How relationships and reconciliation reflect the way of Jesus
⚡ Why grace and truth are not opposites but inseparable in Christ
🌱 The 22 relational nutrients that transform marriages, friendships, and leadership
🙌 Practical ways to ask for what you need and build deeper connections
This episode will help you breathe again - reminding you that your soul thrives in safe, grace-filled relationships.
👉 Grab Enough Already on Amazon → https://www.amazon.com/Enough-Already-Private-Performance-Freedom/dp/1966818068
📚 Free eBooks & resources → https://coryrice.gumroad.com/
🌐 Connect with us → https://thepowerofre.com
00:00 - Intro & Welcome
00:20 - Reviews, Reverse Psychology & Book Plug
00:55 - Free eBooks & Resources Mention
01:01 - Processing a Heavy Week
01:16 - Sunday Sermon Recap: Polar Opposites at the Table
01:42 - Leadership Stress & Wanting to Quit
02:16 - Online Division & Social Media Turmoil
02:49 - Friend’s Post: Focus on Family & Faithfulness
03:38 - Processing an Assassination & Public Division
04:33 - Christianity & Empire Warning
05:00 - Private Conversations vs. Online Reactions
05:19 - Minority Voices & Algorithmic Division
05:55 - Ribbon Cutting Ceremony & Insight: “I Only Know in Part”
06:42 - Segue to Chapters 8 & 9: Relationships Matter
07:15 - Jesus Calling Simon the Zealot & Matthew the Tax Collector
08:08 - Doing Life Together Despite Differences
08:40 - Relationships & Unity Over Division
09:08 - Chapter 8: What Kills a Soul, What Restores a Soul
09:43 - Honesty, Grace & Connection as Soul Restorers
10:26 - Kingdom Message: Reconciliation & Identity
10:28 - Grace and Truth Are Not Opposites
11:32 - Jesus as Grace and Truth in One
12:11 - Calling Out Without Relationship
13:00 - Image Management & Soul Exhaustion
13:42 - The Soul Thrives on Grace, Connection & Honesty
14:09 - Do We Need to Share Opinions Online?
14:22 - Value of Relationships & Dialogue with Grace
15:06 - Chapter 9: I Can’t Do This Alone
15:20 - Relational Needs & John Townsend’s 22 Nutrients
16:04 - The Challenge of Asking for What You Need
17:00 - Examples: Celebration, Affirmation, Containment
18:33 - Group Therapy & The Power of Asking Directly
20:05 - How Relational Nutrients Changed Marriage & Counseling
21:00 - Removing “I Don’t Know” & Naming Needs
21:32 - Using This Framework in Marriage & Leadership
22:23 - Most People Don’t Need Advice, They Need Presence
23:56 - Clarifying Needs for Better Care & Resources
25:23 - Why This Approach Is a Cheat Code for Connection
26:19 - Closing Thoughts: Put It Into Practice
26:44 - Resources, Books & Local Cohort Invite
27:17 - Final Encouragement: You Are Loved
What does it really mean to accept your weaknesses and still move forward with strength?
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, Cory and Channock dive into Chapters 6 & 7 of Enough Already - The Power of Integration and You’ve Worn These Shoes Well. Together, they explore what it looks like to accept negative realities, share vulnerably, and ultimately make choices from freedom instead of pressure.
You’ll hear:
💭 Honest struggles with selfishness, criticism, and body image
⚡ Why integration is about acceptance and growth
🙌 How vulnerability creates stronger connections and bonds
👟 The pivotal moment of choosing ministry by choice, not obligation
🎬 Lessons from Ted Lasso on being real and building trust
This conversation is raw, encouraging, and practical - helping you see that your weaknesses don’t disqualify you; they make you human.
👉 Grab Enough Already on Amazon → https://www.amazon.com/Enough-Already-Private-Performance-Freedom/dp/1966818068
📚 Free eBooks & resources → https://coryrice.gumroad.com/
🌐 Connect with us → https://thepowerofre.com
00:00 - Intro & Audience Welcome
00:45 - Reviews, Support & Superman Feedback
01:00 - Question of the Week & Football Talk
01:43 - Cory’s Ninth eBook Release
02:47 - Upcoming Cohort & Open Spots
03:08 - Preface to Chapters 6 & 7
03:34 - Chapter 6: The Power of Integration
04:18 - Accepting Negative Realities
05:55 - Knowledge vs. Communication Struggles
08:22 - Admitting Selfishness & Personal Weaknesses
09:42 - Excellence vs. Good Enough
10:53 - Body Image & Self-Acceptance
12:12 - Criticism, Leadership & Growth
13:45 - Hyper-Critical Lens & Finding Contentment
15:13 - Inappropriateness & Excuses
15:59 - Vulnerability & Group Therapy Insights
17:22 - Honoring the Journey & Messy Parts
18:42 - Ted Lasso Example of Vulnerability
20:32 - Chapter 7: You’ve Worn These Shoes Well
21:20 - Pastoral Pressure & Considering Other Paths
23:00 - Exploring Career Alternatives
24:19 - Choosing Ministry by Choice, Not Obligation
25:46 - Book Impact & Recommendations
26:39 - Closing Challenge: Find Safe People
27:30 - Local Event Announcement
28:03 - Final Encouragement: You Are Loved
Why do we keep thinking happiness is always in the next season?
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, Cory and Channock dive into Chapters 4 & 5 of Enough Already - Destination Addiction and Imposter Syndrome. These two struggles often keep us from living fully in the present and embracing who we already are.
You’ll hear:
⏳ What “destination addiction” really is and how it robs us of joy
💭 The 5 types of imposter syndrome (and which ones we struggle with most)
🙌 Practical ways to celebrate small wins and be where your feet are
👀 Honest behind-the-scenes stories of leadership, family life, and faith
⚡ Why awareness is powerful but celebration is essential
This episode will encourage you to slow down, embrace the season you’re in, and release the pressure of “should” so you can live free and fully present.
📚 Get Channock’s book Enough Already: [https://www.amazon.com/Enough-Already-Private-Performance-Freedom/dp/1966818068]
📚 Download Cory’s free ebook: [https://coryrice.gumroad.com/l/emotionallywhole]
🌐 Learn more about ReLife or get involved: https://thepowerofre.com
00:00 - Welcome & Audience Shoutouts
00:38 - Football Season & Family Life
01:00 - Podcast Support & Gratitude
01:55 - Shoutout to Lissa in the Netherlands
02:50 - Ministry Blueprints & Invitation
03:15 - Chapters 4 & 5: Destination Addiction & Imposter Syndrome
03:31 - Previous Sermons & Podcast Episodes
04:23 - Processing These Topics Over Years
05:00 - Discovering the Language of Imposter Syndrome
06:16 - Destination Addiction Explained
07:30 - If/Then Thinking & Lack of Contentment
08:58 - Personal Struggles with Destination Addiction
10:00 - Celebrating One vs. Chasing More
12:16 - Parenting, Seasons of Life & Contentment
13:02 - Emotional Growth as Climbing the Mountain
13:48 - Celebrating Milestones vs. Always Wanting More
14:50 - Applying Celebration to Everyday Life
15:20 - Imposter Syndrome Overview (5 Types)
15:53 - Superman Struggles & Perfectionism
16:43 - Cory’s Expert Imposter
17:27 - Growth, Flexibility & Ongoing Struggles
18:35 - Leadership, Capacity & Saying No
20:23 - Balancing Roles & Communication Challenges
21:23 - Process, Shame & Pool Stories
22:03 - Celebration Practices & Counseling Insights
23:39 - Be Where Your Feet Are
24:50 - Closing Thoughts & Next Week’s Preview
25:27 - Final Encouragement: You Are Loved
What happens when the voice of should runs your life?
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, Cory and Channock unpack Chapters 2 and 3 of Enough Already - The Shame of Should and I Got Robbed. Together they explore how shame-driven expectations steal our joy, how people-pleasing and performance pressure shape our decisions, and how to reclaim freedom in the present moment.
You’ll hear:
😔 The hidden weight of “should” and how it shapes identity
🙋 Stories of people-pleasing, performance, and insecurity
😂 Karaoke, dancing, and other ways shame robs us of joy
💡 Why awareness is 50% of the battle in overcoming shame
🙌 How to find joy in the season you once prayed for
This episode will challenge you to ask: What areas of my life are being robbed by shame? And it will encourage you to reclaim joy, presence, and freedom right where you are.
📚 Get Channock’s book Enough Already: [https://www.amazon.com/Enough-Already-Private-Performance-Freedom/dp/1966818068]
📚 Download Cory’s free ebook: [https://coryrice.gumroad.com/l/emotionallywhole]
🌐 Learn more about ReLife or get involved: https://thepowerofre.com
00:00 - Intro & Shoutouts
01:01 - Soccer Season & Senior Year Reflections
01:41 - Sharing the Podcast & New Listeners
02:27 - Rethinking God with Tacos Connection
02:50 - Diving into Enough Already (Ch. 2 & 3)
03:05 - The Shame of Should
04:01 - Gathering Stories of Shame
05:51 - People-Pleasing & Early Influences
07:22 - Pressure to Always Have the Answer
08:59 - Overcompensating in Other Areas
09:59 - Impromptu vs. Over-Prepared Speaking
11:10 - Cory’s “Should” of Always Doing More
12:58 - Ministry Pressure & Workload Shame
14:18 - Fear of Not Knowing or Communicating Enough
15:55 - Awareness & Work in Progress
16:31 - Transition to Chapter 3: I Got Robbed
17:22 - Karaoke, Dancing & Shame Stealing Joy
18:41 - Competitiveness & Losing Joy in Winning
20:24 - What’s Robbing Joy in This Season?
22:04 - Changing Perspective & Reclaiming Joy
22:48 - Closing Reflection: Mindset & Freedom
23:35 - Book Invitation & Final Thoughts
24:37 - You’re Loved & Nothing Can Change That
What if your worth had nothing to do with your performance?
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, Cory and Channock dive into Chapter 1 of Enough Already, unpacking the story behind the book and the deeper journey from the private hell of performance to the freedom of knowing you’re enough.
You’ll hear:
✨ The hilarious origin of “Shancock Bante” and why it still matters today
💭 How performance culture shapes identity (and how to break free from it)
🛑 The inner vows and false beliefs that keep us striving
🙌 A vulnerable look at pastoral pressure, insecurity, and emotional health
📚 Why this book isn’t a “how-to” but a real-life journey toward freedom
If you’ve ever struggled with the question Am I enough? this episode will encourage and challenge you to lay down the mask and embrace your true identity.
📚 Get Channock’s book Enough Already: [https://www.amazon.com/Enough-Already-Private-Performance-Freedom/dp/1966818068]
📚 Download Cory’s free ebook: [https://coryrice.gumroad.com/l/emotionallywhole]
🌐 Learn more about ReLife or get involved: https://thepowerofre.com
00:00 - Welcome & Global Listeners
00:37 - Reviews, Support & Feedback
01:06 - Refined Series & Deconstruction Sermon
02:19 - One-Star Reviews & Funny Feedback
03:14 - Audience Engagement & Accessibility
03:44 - Introducing Enough Already
04:55 - How the Book Got Its Title
06:17 - Writing Journey & Shift in Focus
08:01 - Emotional Health & Healing Journey
09:42 - Performance, Identity & Freedom
11:04 - Processing Insecurities & Growth
12:00 - The Aruba Story: Becoming Shancock Bante
14:20 - Performance Pressure Growing Up
17:18 - Put on the Spot in Ministry
19:41 - Performance-Driven Preaching
20:49 - The “Jordan Flu Game” Sermon
22:18 - Counseling, Core Wounds & Striving
23:29 - Masks, Shame & Inner Vows
26:01 - Freedom from Performance & Finding Peace
27:34 - How This Book Differs from Leadership Guides
28:56 - A Glimpse into the Journey
29:57 - Closing: Share the Book & What’s Next
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, we share the jaw-dropping true story from Guatemala that’s challenging our doubts and reigniting our faith for miracles - both big and small.
You’ll hear:
🌱 The backstory of Casa Angelina and their mission to raise orphans into royalty
🥑 How one “impossible” harvest turned into four
🙏 Honest reflections on miracles, unanswered prayers, and faith in the in-between
💡 Why some miracles look supernatural… and others look like steady faithfulness
Whether you’re in a season of doubt, expectancy, or somewhere in between, this story will challenge and inspire you to believe again - for the big, the small, and everything in between.
00:00 - Intro & Podcast Update
01:00 - Setting Up the Guatemala Story
02:04 - Overview of Casa Angelina Orphanage
03:29 - The 8-Acre Farm & Incredible Produce
05:01 - Avocado Trees & Harvest Timeline
06:27 - Unexpected Early Harvest Miracle
08:47 - Multiple Harvests in One Year
11:14 - Processing Miracles & Personal Doubts
13:06 - A Family Miracle Story
14:16 - Hurt from Unanswered Prayers
15:26 - Forest Frank’s Healing Story
15:53 - Renewed Expectancy for Miracles
18:25 - Believing for More Miracles
18:38 - Everyday Provision as a Miracle
20:41 - Gifting of a House for Ministry
21:58 - Recognizing Small and Big Miracles
23:35 - The True Miracle: The Kids
24:37 - Encouragement to Believe Again
24:54 - Closing Remarks & Resources
After taking the summer off, Channock and Cory are back in the studio for a brand-new episode of Two Pastors and a Mic! In this episode, they share a full summer recap - from wild travel stories in Africa and Guatemala to exciting updates with ReLife, a powerful nonprofit initiative providing housing for single moms.
They also dive into the release of Channock’s book, Enough Already, Cory’s new emotional health ebook, and an upcoming 2026 intensive program. Plus, don’t miss the hilarious Ben Stiller story, the royalty necklace ceremony that empowered 80 Guatemalan kids, and a powerful conversation about what it means to live as royalty as sons and daughters of God.
00:00 – Welcome Back & Intro
00:42 – Audience Feedback on Shane Willard Episodes
02:15 – Shoutouts to Listeners & Supporters
04:22 – Funny Aldi & Ben Stiller Story
06:20 – Global Podcast Audience & Travel Updates
07:14 – Summer Recap & Back to Routine
09:03 – ReLife Updates: New HQ & Housing Projects
11:18 – ReLife Becomes an Official Nonprofit
13:07 – Book Release: Enough Already
14:27 – New Emotional Health Ebook & 2026 Intensive
17:00 – Africa Trip Experiences & Culture of Honor
21:32 – Necklace Ceremony & Bringing African Culture Home
23:59 – Empowering Orphans in Guatemala with Royalty Ceremony
26:05 – Hilarious Rat Story During African Service
27:21 – Reflections on Summer Ministry & Services
28:38 – Living as Royalty: Empowerment Message
31:58 – Closing Thoughts: You Are Loved & Royalty
Resources & Links:
Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe!
In this special episode, we’re sharing an incredible message from Shane Willard, recorded live at Hill City Church.
Shane Willard takes us on a mind-blowing journey through the entire Bible in just 38 minutes! He unpacks how humanity’s understanding of God has evolved from distant and demanding to close and compassionate, all culminating in the revelation of Jesus Christ and God living in us.
00:00 - Welcome & Podcast Intro
00:45 - Book Release Reminder
01:13 - Introducing Shane Willard Sermon Series
02:40 - Shane Willard Takes the Stage
03:57 - Shane on Hospitality & Background
05:11 - Shane's Resource Table & Mission Work
06:26 - A Prayer Before the Sermon
06:56 - How to Understand the Whole Bible
08:14 - Five Words That Explain the Bible
09:36 - Abraham's Day: God Lived Up
12:03 - Moon, Fertility, and Ancient Beliefs
14:01 - Moses's Day: God Lived in a Tent
15:01 - David's Day: God Lived in a Temple
15:57 - Jesus's Day: God Lived in Flesh
16:54 - Paul's Day: God Lives in Us
17:44 - God Getting Nicer Through History
18:52 - Sacrifice & Mutilation in Ancient Times
21:04 - Abraham’s Encounter with El Shaddai
24:13 - God Moves from Child Sacrifice to Animal Sacrifice
26:31 - Moses's Revelation: One Sacrifice, One Cut
28:45 - Prophets Begin Shifting the Narrative
33:30 - Jesus's Radical Forgiveness Examples
36:08 - Salvation Outside Temple Rituals
40:08 - The Faith of Others Interceding
41:06 - God Always Like Jesus from the Beginning
42:48 - Whole Bible Summary Recap
43:23 - Blessing & Final Words from Shane
44:40 - Channock & Cory Closing Reflections
46:09 - Invitation to Support Shane’s Ministry
46:30 - Closing Blessing & Next Week’s Preview
In this special episode, Shane Willard brings a powerful, practical, and perspective-shifting message from Philippians 2. What does it really mean to “do all things without grumbling”? And how does our attitude impact the way the world sees Jesus in us?
With historical insights, psychological wisdom, and classic Shane humor, this sermon challenges us to stop complaining, regain perspective, and become people who shine like stars in a dark world.
00:00 - Intro & July Update
00:50 - "Enough Already" Book Shoutout
01:32 - Why Shane Willard Sermons This Month
03:18 - Shane’s Intro & Mission
06:11 - Opening the Bible: Philippians 2
07:13 - Do All Things Without Grumbling
10:35 - Historical Backdrop of Philippi
13:49 - Paul’s Arrest & Final Words
20:11 - Don’t Be Like the Grumbling Israelites
21:05 - Grumbling as a Clanging Gong
23:59 - Hope Requires Perspective
25:56 - Be Part of the Song, Not the Gong
27:26 - Why We Grumble
30:53 - Perspective: Then vs. Now
33:41 - Don’t Miss the Water for the Mud
35:36 - Comparison & Sacred Object Syndrome
39:00 - Freezing the Present
42:57 - Final Summary: No Grumbling, Shine Like Stars
43:50 - What This Means for Us
Is the Bible really as simple as we've made it? In this powerful message, Shane Willard unpacks why so many people are deconstructing their faith - not because they’re walking away from Jesus, but because they’re wrestling with how we’ve interpreted Scripture.
00:00 - Intro & July Update
00:52 - Sermons by Shane Willard Explained
03:12 - Why the Bible Is Under Attack
07:21 - What Needs Deconstructing
10:25 - Problems with Static Bible Reading
12:21 - The Bible's Historical Arc
18:02 - Genre Confusion & Biblical Interpretation
24:40 - Questions About Hell, Heaven, & More
29:40 - Is the Bible Simple?
32:00 - Understanding the Book of Job
40:00 - Wisdom Literature & Suffering
43:00 - Deuteronomy & Problematic Passages
53:00 - God and Genocide in Psalm 137
54:00 - How to Read the Bible Faithfully
In this special episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, we share a thought-provoking message from Shane Willard that challenges the way many of us were taught to read the Bible.
Is the Bible simple, clear, and static - or is it ancient, diverse, and complex? Shane dives deep into the nature of inspiration, why Jesus and Paul approached Scripture so radically, and how truth is better understood through three layers: literal, symbolic, and evental.
00:00 - Welcome & Housekeeping
01:04 - Introducing Shane Willard's Sermons
02:45 - Why Share Shane's Messages
03:11 - Opening Affirmation on Scripture
04:37 - Paul & Jesus on Inspiration
06:00 - Jesus' Radical Acts of Compassion
08:15 - Meaning of Inspiration
09:15 - Breath, Inspire, and Expire
10:36 - The Bible as Ancient, Diverse, Complex
13:33 - Three Layers of Truth: Literal, Symbolic, Evental
17:06 - The Meaning of the Cross
19:55 - The Power of Personal Meaning
22:28 - Levels of Engagement with Scripture
25:08 - Stories of Disobedience and Tragedy
27:06 - Descriptive vs Prescriptive Scripture
28:05 - Use of Fiction and External Literature
28:47 - Contradictions & Evolving Views
30:07 - Voices in Scripture: Victim, Accuser, Christ
31:11 - How the Early Church Read Scripture
31:51 - The Five Guiding Rules of Interpretation
33:07 - Biblical vs Christ-Centered Society
34:36 - Genre-Specific Interpretation
35:18 - Incarnational Nature of Scripture
35:38 - The Bible as a Pilgrimage Story
36:22 - Examples of Genre and Literary Devices
37:42 - Human Voice in Scripture
39:49 - Doubting an Unworthy Image of Jesus
40:10 - Break Before Next Session
In this powerful message from Shane Willard, originally shared at the CIM Network Conference hosted by Hill City Church, we explore one of the most challenging and freeing questions for the Church today: Are we building fences to keep people out, or digging wells to draw people in?
Using the story of the Ethiopian eunuch in Acts 8, Shane unpacks what it means to move from a fence-based to a well-based faith - where inclusion, love, and transformation take priority over exclusion and rule-keeping. This teaching will stretch your perspective, challenge old paradigms, and inspire you to reimagine what it means to be a follower of Jesus in today’s world.
00:00 - Intro & Podcast Update
01:14 - Why We’re Sharing Shane Willard’s Sermons
02:54 - Shane’s Opening & Vision for the Weekend
06:48 - Two Framing Stories
10:46 - From Fences to Wells
11:13 - Acts 8 and the Eunuch's Question
17:05 - Fence-Based vs. Well-Based Paradigms
23:03 - The Unexpected Fruit in Ethiopia
23:47 - 10 Contrasts Between Fence & Well-Based Churches
27:06 - Hiddenness vs. Honesty in Church Culture
28:09 - Measuring Distance vs. Direction
31:24 - The Atheist Door Greeter Story
33:04 - Legal Transaction vs. Way of Life
36:12 - Heaven Now, Not Just Someday
37:01 - God for Me vs. God for the World
39:06 - From ‘Saved’ to ‘Thirsty’
40:09 - What Makes a Thirsty Culture?
41:47 - Jesus Redefines Access at the Temple
43:30 - Wrestling With Application
47:56 - Are We Digging Wells or Building Fences?
49:06 - Final Blessing & Challenge
In this episode, we celebrate the release of Channock's first book, Enough Already. Hear the behind-the-scenes journey of writing, the emotional breakthroughs along the way, and why this legacy project matters. Whether you're an aspiring author or just love a good redemption story, this one will inspire you.
00:00 - Intro & Birthday Shoutout
00:51 - The Book Is Officially Live!
01:52 - Why Channock Wrote "Enough Already"
03:16 - Accountability and the 3-Year Delay
04:49 - The Shancock Bante Alter Ego
06:32 - Wrestling with Identity and Freedom
08:00 - Writing Process and Chapter Development
10:45 - Tools and Help Along the Way
12:21 - Misconceptions About Shancock Bante
13:54 - Childhood, Church Trauma, and Expectations
15:00 - Creating the Book Outline
16:06 - The War Room Milestone
17:36 - Editing, Reordering, and Final Chapter
19:05 - Favorite and Hardest Chapters to Write
21:00 - Full Chapter Titles Overview
23:22 - Chapter Highlights and Reflections
25:02 - Title Meaning: Enough Already
26:16 - A Bold and Vulnerable Confession
27:00 - Final Thoughts and Encouragement
In this episode, we sit down with Jamie Englehart to talk grace, identity, emotional health, and spiritual growth. Jamie unpacks the difference between objective and subjective truth and shares why emotional healing is essential before spiritual maturity. We also discuss Channock’s new book Enough Already - launching June 25 on Amazon!
Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe.
00:00 - Intro & Book Launch
01:21 - Jamie Englehart Joins the Conversation
03:27 - Jamie’s Impact and Ministry Heart
04:25 - Objective vs Subjective Truth
07:04 - Faith, Healing, and Experiencing Truth
10:03 - True Gospel and Experiential Transformation
11:09 - Advice for Young Leaders
13:05 - Emotional Health Before Theology
17:01 - Study People, Not Just Theology
19:48 - Fathers Meet Needs, Not All Needs
20:59 - What Hills Are You Willing to Die On?
26:59 - All Are Children of God
27:59 - Upcoming Africa Trip & Staying Grounded
29:46 - Follow Jamie & Final Words
30:04 - Outro
In this episode, we welcome back Dr. Robin Smit to talk all things writing, publishing, and legacy. Whether you’ve dreamed of writing a book or just need a creative nudge, this conversation is packed with encouragement, practical advice, and stories that will inspire you to start.
00:00 - Intro & Welcome
00:52 - Special Guest: Dr. Robin Smit Returns
01:44 - Why Everyone Should Write a Book
02:36 - Founding of TWWS (The Writers' Society)
03:28 - From Workshops to Publishing
04:20 - Helping Authors Like Don Keathley & Tommy Miller
05:12 - Saying Yes to Empowering Writers
06:04 - Publishing Growth & Author Milestones
06:56 - The Legacy Society & Honoring Seasoned Voices
07:48 - Co-Authored Projects: Free to Give, Gather & Be Free
08:40 - Finding Your Voice: Women Authors Project
09:32 - Resurrection Life: Poetry & Art Collaboration
10:24 - Workshops for Aspiring Authors
11:16 - The Mentoring Workshop Experience
12:08 - Robin’s Tips for New Writers
13:00 - Channock’s Journey to Becoming an Author
13:52 - Writing for Legacy and Family
14:44 - How to Start: Write One Story at a Time
15:36 - The Power of Momentum in Writing
16:28 - Memoirs That Transform Lives
17:20 - Don’t Let Your Story Die with You
18:12 - Legacy over Bestseller Status
19:04 - How to Connect with Robin & TWWS
19:56 - Final Encouragement & Podcast Sign-Off
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Robin Smit to discuss her book Behold the Lamb, the finished work of Christ, and why our identity as sinless is a game-changer. Packed with insight, encouragement, and powerful truths about grace, we think you'll enjoy this conversation.
00:00 - Welcome and Milestone Announcement
01:10 - Introducing Dr. Robin Smit
01:49 - Book Series Overview & Two-Part Interview
02:24 - Travel and Author Update
02:44 - Robin’s Writing Journey Begins
03:41 - From Article to First Book
04:48 - Publishing Strategy and Second Book
05:35 - Writing Challenges and Book Three
06:04 - Behold the Lamb: Doctoral Dissertation
06:38 - Why “Behold the Lamb” Matters
07:52 - How Many Books Has Robin Written?
08:54 - Roots of Grace Revelation
09:53 - Embracing Whole Redemption Now
10:42 - Once You See It, You Can’t Unsee It
11:55 - Key Teachings and Identity Language
13:00 - Exploring Sin as Dysfunction
14:06 - Adam’s Identity as Son of God
14:58 - Book Recommendation & Wrap-Up
In this episode, we sit down with our friend Zoran from Macedonia to talk about grace, calling, and the beauty of living a life led by the Spirit. His stories, prophetic insight, and heart for people will leave you encouraged and challenged. Don’t miss this powerful conversation!
00:08 - Intro and Welcome
01:20 - Special Guest Introduction: Zoran
03:00 - First Encounter and Prophetic Encouragement
04:10 - Zoran’s Family and Global Ministry
06:45 - Embracing Grace and Loving All People
10:00 - Ministry Work in Macedonia
13:00 - Activating Hidden Callings in Others
16:00 - Prophetic Words and Long-Term Impact
18:30 - Faith, Grace, and Practical Spirituality
20:45 - The Power of Words and Unexpected Impact
22:00 - Encouragement from James 1:17
24:00 - Life Is a Gift and Perfect Moments
25:00 - Zoran’s Website and Social Media
26:00 - Closing Thoughts and Book Promo
27:00 - Final Blessing and Sign-Off
In this episode, we’re joined by the brilliant Shane Willard for a powerful and thought-provoking conversation on the gospel, reconciliation, and why Jesus prioritized tables over tablets. Despite a technical glitch, this AI-enhanced episode captures one of the richest interviews we’ve ever had. Shane unpacks theology with humor, clarity, and depth - covering everything from Acts 8 to redefining righteousness, and why true spirituality is about digging deeper wells, not building higher fences.
➡️ Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe.
📘 Preorder Channock’s new book Enough Already (releasing June 25)
🌐 Learn more about Shane at shanewillardministries.org
00:00 - Intro & Audio Glitch Explanation
01:00 - Celebrating 100K Downloads
02:17 - Introducing Shane Willard
03:48 - Cultural Impact & Leadership at Hill City
05:48 - Wells vs. Fences Metaphor
09:01 - Acts 8 & The Ethiopian Eunuch
12:59 - Static Bible vs. Living Word
16:00 - Philip’s Dilemma & Living Scripture
17:30 - Shane's Theological Journey
21:36 - Reclaiming the Meaning of Words
25:30 - Righteousness, Generosity, and Biblical Language
29:30 - Tables vs. Tablets & Reconciliation
35:30 - Philippians Preview & No Grumbling Message
39:00 - Where to Find Shane Willard
43:00 - Missions & Children's Homes
45:30 - Closing Declaration
In this final episode of the “Let’s Talk About Hell” series, we answer listener questions, unpack common objections, and offer five reasons to follow Jesus that have nothing to do with eternal punishment. It’s not fear that transforms us - it’s love, peace, and purpose.
This isn’t about abandoning faith - it’s about deepening it.
00:00 - Welcome & No Question of the Week
00:26 - Celebrating a Record-Breaking Week
01:01 - Listener Highlight: Jordan’s Testimony
02:20 - Shoutouts to the Team & Studio Upgrade
03:01 - Handmade Gift from Bobby
03:52 - Gratitude for the Hill City Team
04:46 - Jumping into Week 4 of “Let’s Talk About Hell”
05:41 - Reminder: This Isn’t Exhaustive Theology
06:16 - Upcoming Conference with Shane Willard
06:56 - Transforming Gehenna: The Redeeming God
08:52 - Rapid Fire Listener Questions
09:19 - Does Suicide Send You to Hell?
10:18 - What About Revelation 21:8?
11:32 - The “Depart from Me” Verses
12:26 - Common Questions About Hell & Christianity
12:48 - If There’s No Hell, Why Follow Jesus?
13:52 - Dr. Matt Pandell & Jacob Wright Quotes
14:50 - Reframing Evangelism Without Fear
15:28 - Reason 1: Abundant Life Now (John 10:10)
16:20 - Understanding Union With Christ
17:33 - John 20: Purpose of the Gospel
18:14 - Reason 2: Responsibility to Bring Heaven Now
19:05 - Brian Zahnd: People Need Love, Not Threats
20:01 - Why This Matters More Than Afterlife Doctrine
21:00 - Real Life Campaign: Being the Church Daily
21:58 - Reason 3: Living Intentionally & Leaving a Legacy
23:11 - Writing Books for Generational Impact
24:00 - Citizenship in Heaven, Residency on Earth
24:34 - Reason 4: Perspective in Pain
25:48 - Reason 5: Peace That Surpasses Understanding
27:23 - Evangelism as Restoration, Not Saving Souls
28:30 - Closing Thoughts: Peace Over Fear
29:10 - Belief Activates the Truth in You
29:27 - Final Word: You Are Loved—And Nothing Can Change That
In this week’s episode, we dive into part 3 of our series on Hell - challenging traditional beliefs about hell, unpacking Jewish and early church perspectives, and exploring why fear has no place in the gospel. We share listener feedback, address theological criticism, and ask some hard but necessary questions about God's love, judgment, and what it really means to follow Jesus.
Whether you're curious, skeptical, or wrestling with your own faith journey, this conversation is meant to open dialogue - not shut it down.
00:00 - Welcome & Podcast Intro
00:23 - The Purpose Behind These Conversations
01:16 - Feedback and Questions from Listeners
02:04 - Responding to Online Criticism
03:30 - Coloring Books, Theology, and Humor
05:06 - Nearly 100K Downloads & Gratitude
05:41 - Preaching About Hell at Church
06:54 - Why We Talk About Hell Publicly
07:59 - Announcing the New Ebook on Judgment & Wrath
08:42 - Week 3: What the Hell Series Intro
09:27 - Recap of the Four Hell Words in Scripture
10:04 - Diversity of Jewish Thought on the Afterlife
11:19 - Olam Haba & Resurrection Beliefs
11:59 - Gehenna as Temporary Purification
12:48 - Recommended Deep Dive: John Crowder Teaching
13:35 - God's Fire as Healing, Not Harm
14:12 - Powerful Quotes About God's Wrath
14:52 - Fire Reveals the True Self
16:00 - The Real Goal: Removing Fear from Theology
17:04 - Biblical Love Casts Out Fear
17:16 - A Biblical View of Hell as Earthly Experience
18:19 - Hell as Earthly Suffering, Not Afterlife Threat
19:02 - 70 AD vs. Afterlife: What Was Jesus Talking About?
19:49 - Hell Shouldn't Be in Gospel Presentations
20:56 - Adam vs. Jesus: Who Holds More Power?
21:25 - Paul’s Gospel Never Mentions Hell
22:10 - What the Disciples Did—and Didn’t—Say About Hell
23:16 - No NT Precedent for Hell in the Gospel
23:49 - Old Covenant vs. New Covenant Logic Breakdown
24:46 - Jesus as High Priest vs. OT Priests
25:12 - Challenging Question: Is Eternal Hell Logical?
26:04 - The Tragic Case of Andrea Yates
27:06 - Atonement Theory Breakdown: Did Jesus Suffer Hell?
28:13 - Jesus Defeated Death—Not Suffering in It
28:42 - God Is Love, Not Death and Torture
29:18 - Defining Hell: No Longer Being Able to Love
29:35 - Empowerment to Manifest Heaven
30:15 - Manifesting Heaven or Hell: You Choose
30:49 - Closing Reminder: You Are Loved
Join us for week two on our conversation about hell.
00:00 - Welcome and Podcast Intro
00:23 - Celebrating Feedback from Last Episode
01:46 - Shoutouts to Supporters and Hill City Church
03:09 - Theology Must Lead to Love
04:26 - Personal Encouragement and Emotional Funk
05:45 - Why We’re Talking About Hell: Removing Fear
06:59 - Challenging Harmful Beliefs and Church History
08:05 - Clarifying Early Church Views on Hell
09:53 - Foundations and Origins of Hell
11:05 - Gehenna and Jesus’ Use of Fire Metaphors
11:51 - Understanding Destruction and Restoration
12:48 - Wrestling with Free Will and God's Mercy
13:55 - Did Jesus Really Talk About Hell More Than Anything?
15:04 - Unpacking Gehenna, Hades, and Hell Translations
17:02 - Exploring the Four Words Translated as Hell
18:47 - Jesus’ Context for “Gates of Hades”
20:17 - Tartarus and Its Misunderstood Meaning
21:40 - Deep Dive into Gehenna
23:12 - 70 AD Destruction and Jesus’ Warnings
25:01 - Prophetic Warnings from Jeremiah and Isaiah
27:01 - Symbolism Behind “Worms” and “Unquenchable Fire”
28:53 - James and the Tongue Set on Fire by Gehenna
30:21 - The Importance of Studying End Times (Eschatology)
32:07 - Final Thoughts on Debate and Interpretation
33:39 - Key Question: Does Your Belief Serve You Well?
34:55 - Ending in Love, Not Fear
Since we just talked through seven weeks of church trauma/spiritual abuse, the largest issue stems from fear. Fear and our lack of understanding around hell has caused a lot of damage in the lives of people. If you're open to the conversation, let's have it...
00:00 - Intro & Why Today Matters
00:53 - Easter Recap & Record Attendance
02:27 - Preaching Two Services
03:33 - “We Is Risen” Revelation
05:10 - What the Podcast Will Unpack
06:03 - Church Trauma Recap
07:57 - Fear in the Church & Gospel
09:25 - Perfect Love Casts Out Fear
10:31 - Wrestling with Belief and Growth
11:57 - Doubt Builds Trust
13:16 - A Call to Curiosity
14:30 - Recommended Resources on Hell
15:59 - Book Breakdown & Hell Views
17:10 - Journey of Changing Beliefs
18:24 - Three Views of Hell Explained
20:08 - Problems with Fear-Based Salvation
21:26 - Perfect Love & Repentance
22:49 - History of Hell’s Doctrine
25:00 - The 6 Early Theological Schools
27:02 - Justinian & Roman Control
28:33 - Selling Salvation Through Fear
30:03 - Augustine’s Influence & Original Sin
32:02 - What Jesus Actually Taught
33:29 - The Word “Hell” in Translation
35:00 - A Call to Reevaluate & Discuss
We hope to be a safe haven for people on their faith journey. Let's talk about the trauma that many people went through in Scripture. Not to compare or downplay ours, but to relate, empathize, and know we're not alone.
If we're going to try to help reform the broken system of the church, we have to unpack the trauma that is created by mean Christians.
If we're going to try to help reform the broken system of the church, we have to unpack the trauma that is created by over-spiritualization - where we credit God for things He doesn't do and say things to grieving people that aren't helpful.
If we're going to try to help reform the broken system of the church, we have to unpack the trauma that is created by improper humility - the teaching that causes people not to love themselves, trust themselves, or trust their God given intuition.
If we're going to try to help reform the broken system of the church, we have to unpack the trauma that is created by performance driven Christianity - the machine where systems and behavior are above people and their process. If your spiritual stance with God hinges on your actions, you've misunderstood God's unconditional love and grace.
If we're going to try to help reform the broken system of the church, we have to unpack the trauma that is created by fear - issues like the rapture, the devil, spiritual warfare, hell, judgment, and wrath.
We're talking about it because we must! The power that comes from religion shapes us, some for better, others for worse. We want to be a part of the organizational side of church that helps bring healing - giving time and space for people to process their pain and deal with bitterness and resentment.
According to 1 Corinthians 13 - love is patient and kind. How do we live more patient and kind within our marriages? We believe the answer lies in four "knowings." This week we discuss the last one.
According to 1 Corinthians 13 - love is patient and kind. How do we live more patient and kind within our marriages? We believe the answer lies in four "knowings." This week we discuss the third one.
According to 1 Corinthians 13 - love is patient and kind. How do we live more patient and kind within our marriages? We believe the answer lies in four "knowings." This week we discuss the second one.
According to 1 Corinthians 13 - love is patient and kind. How do we live more patient and kind within our marriages? We believe the answer lies in four "knowings." This week we discuss the first one.
In this episode, we unpack the second log (lie) that Paul Young believes is what prevents people from living in the flow of their union with God.
In this episode, we unpack the first log (lie) that Paul Young believes is what prevents people from living in the flow of their union with God.
It's our 4 year anniversary!! What's better than talking about 4 things worth celebrating?
Now what? What is the fruit of all this emotional work and positive self-talk? Since emotional work never stops, it may be time to get disciplined.
Happy New Year! Check out what we're excited for with the RE-Initiative. For more info go to ThePowerOfRE.com
In this episode, we reflect on the year 2024. What were our wins? What was our favorite podcast and sermon series at Hill City? What have we been struggling with? What are we hoping for in 2025?
Join us in our series through Cory's 21-day devotional book "What If I Told You?" This week we discuss knowing we're victorious and great.
Join us in our series through Cory's 21-day devotional book "What If I Told You?" This week we discuss knowing we're a saint and holy.
Join us in our series through Cory's 21-day devotional book "What If I Told You?" This week we discuss knowing we're perfect and a masterpiece.
Join us in our series through Cory's 21-day devotional book "What If I Told You?" This week we discuss knowing we're righteous and known.
Join us in our series through Cory's 21-day devotional book "What If I Told You?" This week we discuss knowing we're forgiven and blameless.
In this episode, we celebrate episode 200 - live with our friends from the Netherlands.
Join us in our series through Cory's 21-day devotional book "What If I Told You?" This week we discuss knowing we're valued and royal.
Join us in our series through Cory's 21-day devotional book "What If I Told You?" This week we discuss knowing we're secured and accepted.
Join us in our series through Cory's 21-day devotional book "What If I Told You?" This week we discuss knowing we're qualified and worthy.
Join us in our series through Cory's 21-day devotional book "What If I Told You?" This week we discuss knowing we're unique and chosen.
Join us in our series through Cory's 21-day devotional book "What If I Told You?" This week we discuss knowing we're whole and loved.
Join us in our series through Cory's 21-day devotional book "What If I Told You?" This week we discuss the caution around emotional health, daily habits, the 5 R's, and creating a mamba mentality.
Join us in our series through statements Jesus never said. Part eight is on the common Christian phrase - God is in control.
Join us in our series through statements Jesus never said. Part seven is on doubt. Jesus never condemns anyone for their doubt. Not John the Baptist, Peter, or Thomas.
Join us in our series through statements Jesus never said. Part six is on a common phrase within Christianity, "God won't give you more than you can handle." We also tackle the sister phrase, "Everything happens for a reason."
Join us in our series through statements Jesus never said. Part five is on a phrase made famous by Gandhi, not Jesus. "Have we ever thought critically about how this statement is heard?"
Join us in our series through statements Jesus never said. Part four is on the idea that Jesus never said to love His enemies, because He doesn't have any.
Join us in our series through statements Jesus never said. Part three is on the idea that Jesus never told us to follow the 10 commandments (the law). Jesus said to follow Him - for He is perfect theology. He is the lens through which we read and interpret the Bible. He is the way to know the Father.
Join us in our series through statements Jesus never said. Part two is on the idea that Jesus or God will judge us in the future, when in fact, Scripture tells us something different.
Join us on our series through statements Jesus never said. Part one is on this idea that we are undeserving when in reality, we are deserving of God's love, mercy, and grace. God's love and finished work is for all.
Join us this week as we still ponder the gold nuggets from our time with C. Baxter Kruger in May. He joined us for a conference and taught several times, including @ Hill City Church and on this podcast - episode 176. We've been thinking about several of his quotes for the past couple of months and think we all would benefit from hearing them again.
This week we interview Channock’s two youngest kids. If you like rizz lines (pick-up lines), this one is for you.
Join us in our summer series as we highlight some amazing guests. This week, we were interviewed by Dr. Catherine Toon on her podcast: Perspectives with Catherine Toon. Check out all of her products at catherinetoon.com
Join us in our summer series as we highlight some amazing guests. This week, we interview Nathan Blouse. He is the founder and president of The Safe Place, a ministry of mind renewal. As Nathan says, "Healing can begin where safety is realized." You can find out more at inthesafeplace.com.
Join us in our summer series as we highlight some amazing guests. This week, we interview Don Keathley - president of Global Grace Seminary. He speaks weekly at the Digital Cathedral (Sunday Mornings at 11 EST) and the Secret Place (Wednesday Nights on Facebook). He's also the co-founder of Grace Awakening Network (gantv.com) and the author of several books including "Hell's Illusion," "Unhook The Book," "Religion Busters," and many more. Check out donkeathley.com for more.
Join us in our summer series as we highlight some amazing guests. This week, we combine 3 podcasts into one. For the first time ever, we introduce 2 Pastors And A Mic colliding with Rethinking God With Tacos (Jason Clark) and The Kingdom Is For Everyone (Matthew Hester).
Join us in our summer series as we highlight some amazing guests. This week, we interview Dr. Matthew Hester - host of the podcast "The Kingdom Is For Everyone." He's the founder of presenttruthacademy.org and talks about his new book "The Rorschach God," releasing July 16, 2024.
Join us in our summer series as we highlight some amazing guests. This week, we interview Jason Clark - host of the popular podcast "Rethinking God With Tacos." He's the author of "God is Not in Control," "Prone To Love," "Leaving and Finding Jesus," and many more. You can find him at afamilystory.org.
In this episode, we interview C. Baxter Kruger - author of Jesus And The Undoing Of Adam.
Join us on this 4-week series diving deep into the book "Jesus And The Undoing Of Adam," by C. Baxter Kruger. This week is chapter 4 - "A Good Friday Sermon: On The Death Of Our Blessed Lord Jesus Christ."
Join us on this 4-week series diving deep into the book "Jesus And The Undoing Of Adam," by C. Baxter Kruger. This week is chapter 3 - A Note On "My God, My God, Why Have You Forsaken Me?"
Join us on this 4-week series diving deep into the book "Jesus And The Undoing Of Adam," by C. Baxter Kruger. This week is chapter 2 - A Note On "Evangelical" Theology.
Join us on this 4-week series diving deep into the book "Jesus And The Undoing Of Adam," by C. Baxter Kruger. This week is chapter 1 - Why Jesus Died.
This week we talk through three dams that stop the flow in our lives. Really they are three things God doesn't want. Then we unpack three things to know that break these dams in our lives.
Join us in an important conversation about whether or not you should trust yourself. Is the heart deceitful? Are we not intertwined with God at all times? It's time to set the record straight.
When living in the flow with God, you'll never be more like God than when you are doing these four things.
Let's learn to live in the FLOW with the Spirit. We break down the word flow with an acronym to help guide your life in four major ways.
Join us for part 4 as we journey into the heart of Christian theology to uncover the truth behind the enigmatic figure of the Devil. Explore with us the historical origins, misconceptions, and the true essence of who the Devil really is, as we challenge the misleading narratives that have shrouded this complex 'figure' in mystery and fear.
Join us for part 3 as we journey into the heart of Christian theology to uncover the truth behind the enigmatic figure of the Devil. Explore with us the historical origins, misconceptions, and the true essence of who the Devil really is, as we challenge the misleading narratives that have shrouded this complex 'figure' in mystery and fear.
Join us for part 2 as we journey into the heart of Christian theology to uncover the truth behind the enigmatic figure of the Devil. Explore with us the historical origins, misconceptions, and the true essence of who the Devil really is, as we challenge the misleading narratives that have shrouded this complex 'figure' in mystery and fear.
Join us for part 1 as we journey into the heart of Christian theology to uncover the truth behind the enigmatic figure of the Devil. Explore with us the historical origins, misconceptions, and the true essence of who the Devil really is, as we challenge the misleading narratives that have shrouded this complex 'figure' in mystery and fear.
Join us for a light hearted yet powerful conversation about Jesus with Bill Vanderbush.
In this episode, we talk through Channock's message (week 7 in Navigating Mindfields). In the end, we unpack the three fields we are to be 'minding'.
In this episode, we unpack 'The Greatest Commandment' found in Matthew 22. However, we talk through the context and expose the truth - the greatest commandment is actually found in John 13:34.
In this episode, we address the shame we live with. We discuss the two areas of shame and give three ways to deal with it.
In this episode, we look at a moment Zacchaeus has with Jesus in Luke 19. We address the idea that sometimes the biggest hindrance to seeing Jesus are the people who claim to run with him.
In this episode, we talk about becoming consciously aware of our thoughts. In order to live a sane life, we must address the things that rob our sanity. We came up with a clever acronym for you to remember!
In this episode, we unpack the question God asks in the garden, "Who Told You That?" We talk through many lies we tend to believe about ourselves and conclude the episode talking through two verses in Scripture that often get interpreted poorly.
In this episode, we talk through the 5 areas of mental fitness. Join us this year as we begin the process of becoming emotionally fit.
In this episode, we kick off the New Year with a challenge to return to childlikeness. There is a major contrast between childlikeness and childishness and we dive into the differences.
In this episode, we reflect on the year 2023. What were our wins? What was our favorite podcast and sermon series at Hill City? What have we been struggling with? What are we hoping for in 2024?
In this episode, we unpack the last couple of myths around the nativity. We reveal one of the greatest revelations of Jesus as the Messiah as we explain these shepherds. We also tackle these 'wise men'.
In this episode, we unpack Luke 2:7 about Jesus being born in an 'inn'. Hopefully, this doesn't ruin the nativity for you :)
In this episode, we introduce the history and beauty of the evolution of the nativity. We also unpack three myths around the Christmas story.
In this episode, we unpack the last two beatitudes in Jesus' sermon on the mount. We talk through verse 9 "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God." And verse 10 "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."
In this episode, we unpack the next two beatitudes in Jesus' sermon on the mount. We talk through verse 7 "Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy." And verse 8 "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God."
In this episode, we unpack the next two beatitudes in Jesus' sermon on the mount. We talk through verse 5 "Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth." And verse 6 "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled."
In this episode, we unpack the first two beatitudes in Jesus' sermon on the mount. We talk through verse 3 "Blessed are the poor in Spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of God." And verse 4 "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted."
In this episode, we celebrate and talk through Cory's new book: What If I Told You? You can purchase it on amazon today!
In this episode, we unpack 7 lacks that the older brother revealed. When the church acts like the older brother, we repeal the very people we should be embracing and accepting.
In this episode, we unpack the 7 Greek words used for love. We think you will "love" this conversation.
In this episode, we unpack 7 pathways to accomplish every task. Through the 4 D's - delegate, dole, dump, or do. As former President Harry S. Truman said, "It's amazing what you can achieve if you don't care who gets the credit."
In this episode, we unpack the 7 ables every leader on your team should have. However, in order for people on your team to have these ables, you as the leader must be modeling them.
In this episode, we talk through the 7 characteristics of a needy leader. Don't be a needy leader; be a nourishing leader!
In this episode, we talk through several different tensions in leadership. Whether you're leading a company or your family, these will resonate with you. We would love to hear any tensions you live in that we missed.
In this episode, we unpack the 7 deadly shoulds from the book The Disease To Please by Harriet Braiker.
In this episode, we talk through 7 barriers to relationships. If we all desire connection and community, we must be aware of barriers that prevent relationships from growing.
In this episode, we talk through the 7 proponents that influence our identity. We must become aware of what and who have shaped our lives so we can align the truth of our identity with how God views us.
In this episode, we unpack Keith Giles blog titled, "7 Reasons Why Jesus Was Not Sacrificed For Your Sins."
In this episode, we talk through 5 reasons why religion is so attractive. What would you add to the list?
In this episode, we interview our own Worship Pastor - Brittany Rocha. We talk through new covenant song writing, its challenges, and the songs she and Hill City Worship will be releasing this fall. She even gives us some sneak peaks!
In this episode, we interview our friend Pieter Zwart all the way from the Netherlands. Pieter is the founder and director of the Bible School Foundation 4 Life.
In this episode, we interview Catherine Toon - an author, coach, and speaker. She's the author of Marked By Love, How To Hear From God, and God: Male and Female? You can also listen to her podcast: Perspectives with Catherine Toon. Check out all of her products at catherinetoon.com
In this episode, we interview Shelley Henk, founder and creator of wholesoulstudio.com. She does an incredible job of helping you do the deep work of caring for your soul. She also is a certified health and wholeness coach with Team Redeem.
In this episode, we interview our two friends from Almelo, Netherlands. They pastor the church Almelo Kingdom Center.
In this episode, we interview Justin Knapp - an incredible business mind. He is the CEO and founder of spacetogether.com.
In this episode, we interview Josh Sousa who does campus ministry in and around Indianapolis. He is the author of the book Living A Questionable Life. Join us as he shares about how to love people in every day life.
In this episode, we talk through 2 of the lies we believe about God influenced from the book "Lies We Believe About God" from William Paul Young. This week we unpack Chapter 26 - God loves me for my potential and Chapter 9 - God is disappointed in me.
In this episode, we talk through 2 of the lies we believe about God influenced from the book "Lies We Believe About God" from William Paul Young. This week we unpack Chapter 24 - Not everyone is a child of God and Chapter 13 - You need to get saved.
In this episode, we talk through 2 of the lies we believe about God influenced from the book "Lies We Believe About God" from William Paul Young. This week we unpack Chapter 4 - God does not submit and Chapter 9 - God is a magician.
In this episode, we talk through 2 of the lies we believe about God influenced from the book "Lies We Believe About God" from William Paul Young. This week we unpack Chapter 7 - God is more he than she and Chapter 10 - God is a prude.
In this episode, we talk through 2 of the lies we believe about God influenced from the book "Lies We Believe About God" from William Paul Young. This week we unpack Chapter 2 - God is good, I am not and Chapter 6 - God wants to use me.
In this episode, we talk about how we should view proper judgment between Christians and non-Christians. We must always remember that confrontation without relationship is counter productive. Join us as we discuss the importance of what judgment looks like when it's done with the heart of restoration.
In this episode, we unpack the Scriptures that address the analogy of milk and meat and the irony behind what many Christians believe. Join us in the conversation as we unpack true righteousness in Christ - the meat of Christian living.
In this episode, we unpack Titus 2 and what Paul calls sound doctrine. Again, you may find it interesting what the Bible actually claims sound doctrine to be.
In this episode, we talk about what a false teacher actually is according to Scripture. We unpack 4 verses in context and what we discuss may be shocking...
In this episode, we get vulnerable as we talk through cynicism. We address the word decathect which means to withdraw one's feelings of attachment from a person, idea, or object, as in anticipation of a future loss.
In this episode, we talk about the ancient Japanese art practice of repairing broken pottery by mending the broken pieces together with lacquer that is mixed with powdered gold. As a philosophy, it treats breakage and repair as part of the history of an object (just like people), rather than something to disguise. The philosophy is a reminder to stay optimistic when things fall apart.
In this episode, we talk about the Chinese word for crisis (weiji). Which is composed of two characters - one represents danger, the other represents opportunity. Which one will you choose?
In this episode, we address the state of mind in which someone acts against their better judgment through weakness of will. Simply put - a lack of self-control. Join us as we tackle the issue of Akrasia.
In this episode, we address religious OCD and how fear/guilt rob us from the freedom we have in Christ.
In this episode, we address the importance of controlling our impulsive responses. We need to recognize how we initially respond when we're triggered, angered, or offended. We must learn the art of not making impulsive decisions.
In this episode, we address the importance of emotions. We need to recognize the 3 levels of emotions - our feelings, paying attention to them, and learning the ability to understand them. Join us in this conversation as we learn the art of sitting in the well.
In this episode, we address the importance of our thought life and ways to conquer how we think.