Welcome to the Empowered Manhood podcast, where men rediscover courageous masculinity. Pull up a chair as we gain strength from the stories of God working in the lives of ordinary men today. These men have discovered that, in a world of superficiality and isolation, we need authentic brotherhood to gain strength for the battles we face everyday. Brought to you by the ministry of CLC which challenges men to an uncommon pursuit of Christ. Welcome to Empowered Manhood.
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In two years, he’s gone from virtually obscurity to having 450,000 followers, collaborating with major universities, and being featured on ESPN and CBS Sports.
All because his videos – most of which poke fun at the college football powerhouses and their fanbases – make people laugh.
Wanting to make people laugh is what persuaded Josh Mancuso to go from behind the camera to in front of it. He sees humor as a high calling, because God wants everyone to laugh . . . especially those who know Him best.
Our interview with Josh will encourage you to follow God’s calling on your life. And it will make you laugh. Because that’s what Josh does.
You can follow Josh on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, his website, and . . . what, you need other places, too? Seriously?Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Chris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.com
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In the days of Jesus, Jews hated Samaritans. And the feeling was mutual.
Animosity between the two groups had existed for centuries.
But why?
How did Jesus deal with it? And what does that mean for us today?
This week's Bible passage: 1 Peter 2:4-12
Weekly Strength podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
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Christian men of all ages are struggling, and fewer than 10 percent of American churches offer an effective ministry for their men.
But a men’s discipleship ministry called CLC – Christ Led Communities – is thriving in churches across the U.S. and in pockets around the world, including China.
What’s behind CLC’s success?
Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Chris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.com
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Is pride good or bad? Many would argue that, pride – especially healthy pride – is good.
In a radio address, C.S. Lewis expressed a different opinion.
This week's Bible passage: Luke 18:9-14
Weekly Strength podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
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Effective men’s discipleship is critical to the health of every church, whatever its size.
Travis Edgar leads a small, Free Methodist church in a rural Pennsylvania town. Ronnie Cordrey leads men’s ministry at one of the largest churches in America. While their approaches are very different, both men have learned that men’s discipleship goes nowhere without authentic brotherhood bonds between leaders and the men they are discipling.
Their insights will inspire you to think differently about your role in developing godly men in your church and your other spheres of influence.
full interviews:
Follow Travis on Facebook and Instagram, and check out his church's website and Facebook page. Contact Ronnie via email.
Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Chris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.com
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To make the world a better place, many people turn to politics. That’s because the decisions and actions of government leaders can have a significant impact on some things that can improve the lives of some people.
As Christians, however, we need to be careful that our political involvement does not overshadow our primary mission.
This week's Bible passage: 1 Peter 2:9-17
Weekly Strength podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
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Luke Broyles talks with me about the redemptive value of Bitcoin mining and the significance of self-custody through the Bitcoin Advisors.
https://content.thebitcoinadviser.com/lukebroyles
https://www.blockwaresolutions.com/
Learn more about #RedemptiveEconomics here...
https://redemptiveeconomics.com/
Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Chris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.com
Resources:
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Jesus was not only the perfect man but also the perfect model of manhood. To translate the example of Jesus to their own lives, men need help from their Christian brothers.
The problem is that most men don’t have any Christian brothers. Today’s Christian men are attempting to follow Jesus without a single man to walk beside them on the journey.
This week’s Bible passage: Job 40:1-14
Weekly Strength podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
Other resources:
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I marvel at the integrity of the early Christians. But I also have good examples of integrity in my own life.
One man who demonstrated integrity throughout his life was my dad. I learned many things from his example, including these two: (1) play by the rules and (2) honor your commitments.
This week’s Bible passage: Proverbs 2:1-8
Weekly Strength podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
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Brett Baker was on a self-destructive path until he joined the military, which gave him discipline, structure, and goals. It wasn't until he was medically retired from the military, however, that Brett discovered his true purpose: serving others.
In this interview, Brett explains how putting other people first and maximizing their success has had a tremendous positive impact on his business, his relationship with his wife, and his faith.
With his wife Mary Elaine, Brett co-founded and runs VA USA, which enables military spouses to become virtual assistants for businesses and other organizations.
Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Chris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.com
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Byner took a handoff, powered past the Broncos' line, and headed for the goal line to tie the game. But he was stripped of the ball at the two-yard line, and the Browns lost.
Byner’s name is forever linked with that play, known simply as “The Fumble.” Browns fans couldn’t forgive Byner, and after one more season Cleveland traded him to Washington.
But that’s not the end of Earnest Byner’s story.
This week’s Bible passage: Psalm 73:21-28
Weekly Strength podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
Other resources:
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The Hebrew word "shalom" appears 237 times in the Old Testament. The usual translation is "peace", but the word also means completeness or wholeness.
Both the Old Testament and the New Testament make it clear that true peace -- true wholeness -- comes only from God.
In the second part of our two-part interview with Joel Hanson, he draws from the Bible and from his own experiences to explain how each of us can enjoy the wholeness that God offers.
*Joel is a singer, songwriter, and musician who has won a Dove Award and been nominated for a Grammy. His years fronting the band PFR brought much critical acclaim, and after three decades he is back in the studio with that band. He also has recorded several solo records and produced and assisted with records for other bands and artists. For nearly two decades Joel was the worship pastor at Church of the Open Door in Maple Grove, Minnesota; in summer 2022 he left that role to begin the next chapter of his life.
Joel and Kathy have been married for 34 years and have two adult daughters. Connect with Joel on Instagram and Patreon*.
Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Chris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.com
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In Jesus's time, there was no concept of equality in the Roman Empire or in Jewish society.
So where did Jesus stand on the issue of equality? How did he instruct his followers? How do his words and actions apply to us today, nearly 2,000 years later?
This week’s Bible passage: Galatians 3:26-29
Weekly Strength podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
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When a Christian leader sins, we expect him to step down and, essentially, disappear.
In his letter to the Galatians, Paul instructs us to restore those caught in sin, using a spirit of gentleness. Does restoration mean restoring one to leadership? To the same leadership role?
Joel Hanson experienced that type of restoration. Hear his amazing story in the first half of our interview with him.
*Joel is a singer, songwriter, and musician who has won a Dove Award and been nominated for a Grammy. His years fronting the band PFR brought much critical acclaim, and after three decades he is back in the studio with that band. He also has recorded several solo records and produced and assisted with records for other bands and artists. For nearly two decades Joel was the worship pastor at Church of the Open Door in Maple Grove, Minnesota; in summer 2022 he left that role to begin the next chapter of his life.
Joel and Kathy have been married for 34 years and have two adult daughters. Connect with Joel on Instagram and Patreon*.
Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Chris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.com
Resources:
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Most Christian churches face a shortage of men, with women accounting for 60 percent or more of typical worship attendance. So why do churches seem to go out of their way to alienate men who are divorced?
Church leaders respond that they simply are following and applying biblical principles. But are they?
This week’s Bible passage: Matthew 19:3-9
Weekly Strength podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
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After 17 years of successful youth ministry in Texas and South Carolina, Warren Mainard heard a call from God. His wife heard it, too. The call was to take their two small children, move to Seattle, and plant a church there.
It took Warren three years to get church attendance to 100. Then came 2016, and political turmoil tore apart the small church. Two years later, with his family suffering, Warren had to step away from the church that he had planted.
Had God called Warren to Seattle to fail?
With nearly 30 years of ministry and leadership experience, Warren Mainard brings enthusiasm, vision, and catalytic energy wherever he goes. In addition to serving as the National Director of IMPACT Players -- which inspires men to be great husbands, fathers, and leaders -- Warren is a coach, consultant, speaker, and prolific writer. Warren has been married to Leah, the love of his life, for over 26 years and has two children, daughter Krista and son Micah.
Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Chris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.com
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Jesus knew that, in a few minutes, he was going to raise Lazarus from the dead.
And yet, when Jesus saw Mary weeping for her dead brother, and the Jews who had come with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in his spirit and greatly troubled. And when he arrived at the tomb, he wept.
Jesus wept.
Why?
Billy Graham had an answer.
This week’s Bible passage: 1 Corinthians 15:51-57
Weekly Strength podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
Other resources:
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In 1960, Martin Luther King, Jr. called 11 a.m. on Sunday morning the most segregated hour in Christian America. Today, the issue of race continues to polarize and divide American Christians.
How is God calling us, as men, to engage with this issue?
We sat down with David Bowens, an African-American worship leader at a predominantly white church in Pittsburgh, to get his take. Our conversation was on the heels of Bowens helping to lead two campuses of that church through a series of face-to-face discussions on how racial differences affect our relationships and our faith.
In these highlights from that interview, Bowens explains how the experience changed his perspective and that of many who participated.
Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Chris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.com
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Restore Addiction Recovery not only helps men defeat their addictions but also equips them for full-time employment and prepares them to thrive in the real world.
That’s the world where they have failed so many times in the past.
But then again, so have we.
This week's Bible passage: Matthew 11:25-30
Weekly Strength podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
Other resources:
When a man goes through a divorce, it’s like a bomb has exploded in his life. Everything is affected, including his identity, his dreams and plans, his relationships, his finances, and his physical, emotional, and spiritual health.
If he is a Christian, then he expects to find support and help from other men in his church. Instead, he often finds a cold shoulder. As a result, most Christian men who go through a divorce leave their church, and 30% of them walk away from their faith altogether.
This episode provides practical ways that you can provide support and encouragement to your divorced Christian brother.
Check out Chris Bolinger’s article “9 Ways Men Can Support Christian Brothers through Divorce.”
Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Chris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.com
Resources:
God is not bound by the constraints of time. But we are.
We wish we weren't. That’s why manipulating time is a recurring theme in films.
But our time on earth, as short as it may be, is just the beginning . . . because we live forever.
This week's Bible passage: 2 Corinthians 4:13-18
Weekly Strength podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
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He got his first job when he was 10. At 14, he took his 12-year-old brother to Beijing for six weeks to attend a conference. He graduated high school early, left home, and at age 17 started running a retail store. At 19, he went to Turkey to “find himself” and came back a Christian. Since then, he’s done restaurant management, started and run non-profits, served as a pastor, and helped The Bible Project (website, YouTube channel) reach people around the world.
All while fighting against a core belief that he’s not good enough and doesn’t have what it takes.
In these highlights from our September 2023 interview with Mike McDonald, he shares that “getting in the mud” – stepping outside your comfort zone to follow God’s call – is a key part of understanding your true identity in Christ.
Mike leads The Bible Project’s global focus team, which is localizing nearly 200 videos into 56 different languages. Before The Bible Project, Mike spent 11 years leading a global development organization and served on boards for international compassion and justice organizations. To learn more about The Bible Project, read this article penned by podcast co-host Chris Bolinger.Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Chris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.com
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In life, you often team up with your closest friends. In a crisis, however, a team may be formed from total strangers.
When one of the Apollo 13 spacecraft’s oxygen tanks exploded, the lives of three astronauts suddenly were in the hands of their teammates: flight controllers and engineers 200,000 miles away.
This week's Bible passage: 1 Corinthians 12:12-27
Weekly Strength podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
Other resources:
A key part of Christian leadership is managing our finances in a way that honors God. But God calls us to more than just sound money management, says Mike Hatch.
In fact, God challenges us to ensure that all our economic activities -- at work, at home, at the store, and everywhere else -- contribute to God's redemptive purposes.
In this interview, Mike gives the whys and hows behind pursuing redemptive economic activities.
For more information, check out the Mises Institute website and Gary North's website.
A graduate of Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, Mike started his ministry career in Young Life before becoming the men’s pastor at a large church in the Pittsburgh area. Currently he serves Christian small business owners as a Chapter President for Truth At Work in Pittsburgh, where he lives with his beautiful bride and beloved son.Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Chris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.com
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Research shows that past adversity can help you persevere in the face of current stress. And that makes sense, because perseverance requires strength, and adversity makes you stronger.
Just ask anyone who lifts weights.
This week's Bible passage: Psalm 46
Weekly Strength podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
Other resources:
Even if you're reading the Bible every day, you may be missing -- or misunderstanding -- some of what it says.
Bible expert David Instone-Brewer recommends putting yourself in the place of the first Christians. By reading the Bible through the eyes of the people for whom it was first written, you'll better understand the meaning of the text.
How do you do that? In highlights from this 2022 interview with David, he offers practical tips for mining more gold from the pages of God's Word.
Here is an article based on the interview.
After serving as a Baptist minister, David spent over two decades as a research fellow at Tyndale House, a research library in biblical studies located in Cambridge, England. His books include Divorce and Remarriage in the Bible, Divorce and Remarriage in the Church, and three books in the Scripture in Context Series. Check out his Step Bible resource.
Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Chris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.com
Resources:
At the end of Field of Dreams, Ray finally loses his cool. He has sacrificed a great deal and wants to know how he'll be rewarded.
Is it wrong for a Christian to ask about reward? You know that you'll have eternal life in heaven. But what about here on earth?
How did Jesus answer that question?
Mike Hatch is launching a new Pittsburgh-focused podcast this fall and we wanted to take a moment to share the introductory episode with you. Since many of you (our listeners) are from Pittsburgh, we would love to get your feedback and input about this new endeavor.
The purpose of this new podcast is to promote a more sustainable, kingdom-focused approach to revitalize the Pittsburgh region through entrepreneurship. Our economic activity is being used for God's redemptive purposes, no matter what that is. Consequently, our role in that economic choreography either conflicts with or contributes to God's redemptive purposes.
Redemptive Economics means participating in productive economic activities that...
Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@truthatwork.org
Chris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.com
Resources:
What’s your favorite Bible translation? Does it really matter which one you choose?
Sometimes it does. In fact, the translation – or mistranslation – of a single word of the Bible can make a big difference. It may even skew your view of God in a critical area, such as restoration.
This week's Bible passage: Job 42:10-17
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
Other resources:
One of every 10 American adults struggles with an addiction to drugs or alcohol.
Dan Gregory isn’t one of them. But his son was, so Dan learned all he could about addiction treatment. What he found was a broken system with few options other than short-term outpatient programs that have a poor track record of keeping addicts clean.
So Dan created Restore Addiction Recovery, which provides a holistic, Christ-centered, year-long program that’s free of charge.
Restore opened its doors in January 2021. What’s happened since, and what’s next at this innovative treatment center?
Watch this moving video introduction to Restore.Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Chris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.com
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If Jesus is the Good Shepherd, then what are we?
That's right: we're the sheep.
And like real sheep, we have a tendency to wander . . . even when we're in the perfect environment, the green pasture to which our shepherd has led us.
This week's Bible passage: Luke 15:1-10
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
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If you glance at the homepage for the ministry he co-founded, you may think it’s just another men’s study.
You’d be wrong.
When the COVID pandemic isolated men in the heart of Pittsburgh, Donnie Gray co-founded Digging Deep Ministries to provide a place where men could meet, be open, and be vulnerable to discuss real-life issues such as pain, hurt, and rejection. Four years later, DDM is a vibrant community of men – young and old, black and white – who meet together regularly to worship, eat, pray, talk, and learn how to walk with Christ on a daily basis.
Hear Donnie’s story, and the story of DDM, in this inspiring interview.
A Pittsburgh native, Donald (Donnie) Gray III emerged from a 2012 prison stint with a determination to transform his own life and the lives of others in the heart of his hometown. Today, Donnie relies on his faith in Christ to balance his ministry work, his passion for being a good husband and father, and his pursuit of a new business venture, RnD Strategies, a personal concierge/consulting company that seeks to “love and serve our customers/neighbors like Jesus Christ.”Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Chris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.com
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Faced with a choice between something that is urgent and something that is important, you're likely to do the urgent one. When you make that same choice over and over, you find that you rarely, if ever, have time for what's truly important.
The problem isn’t a lack of time or even a lack of effort. The problem is priorities.
By setting the right priorities, you'll pursue what's truly important. But how do you know what that is?
This week's Bible passage: Philippians 3:12-16
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
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The key to sustained church growth is reaching and discipling men, says David Murrow. His first book, Why Men Hate Going to Church, has sold over 200,000 copies because it "calls the church back to men" and provides practical steps on attracting and retaining men. David's latest initiative, the Online Preaching Coach, trains pastors on providing compelling online content, which is critical to reaching young adults, especially young men.
This episode is highlights from two previous interviews with David:
After you hear the highlights, be sure to check out the complete interviews. And visit DavidMurrow.com for a wealth of resources on growing your church by growing your men.
Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Chris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.com
Resources:
When they reached Emmaus, Cleopas and his friend asked Jesus to stay with them. But Jesus left.
40 days later, Jesus ascended to heaven, leaving all his followers behind, staring at the sky.
His leaving was the best thing for them. And for us.
It forced all of us to pursue a new mission.
This week's Bible passage: Isaiah 40:1-11
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
Other resources:
He’s leading missions trips to deliver humanitarian aid and provide trauma medical training in some of the world’s most challenging environments, including Iraq, Ghana, and Nepal. In The States, he’s taking on the absence of young men (ages 18-35) in the church.
His headquarters: a fight club eight miles from Hershey, Pennsylvania.
At 5 Stones Fight Club – which offers boxing, mixed martial arts, wrestling, and strength training – Shane Manney uses a team atmosphere to grow trust and build a sense of belonging. Once friendships are established, relational evangelism and discipleship flow naturally.
In this interview, Shane explains why he started 5 Stones, why it’s effective, and what’s coming next.
Shane has over 20 years of experience coaching and instructing wrestling, boxing, submission grappling, and strength training. He has been an infantry machine gunner in the United States Marine Corps, a police officer, and a private security contractor and has worked in the field of drug and alcohol rehabilitation. Shane is married with three children and has a bachelor’s degree in Biblical Studies from Lancaster Bible College. Learn more at 5stonesfightclub.org.
Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Chris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.com
Resources:
The Bible tells us that hope, real hope, never disappoints. But what if you're in prison, and you've lost all hope?
Eric Genuis has visited 1,000 prisons. To every one of them, he's brought hope . . . in a surprising way.
This week's Bible passage: Psalm 33:16-22
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
Other resources:
At first, he dragged his feet. Minister to guys in prison? He wasn’t trained for that. God should tap someone else, someone with special skills and experience.
But God changed David Derry’s attitude by changing his heart.
After all, God sent his Son to die for everyone. Including thieves. And murderers. And other guys in prison. Ministering to the incarcerated doesn’t take special skills or training. It just takes saying “yes” to God. Once you do that, says Derry, there’s no limit to what God can do.
Once you hear our interview with David, you might reconsider how God is calling you.
David and his wife Laurel spearhead, organize, and lead marriage events in prison, and David also works with incarcerated youth and young adults. Email David at davidderry@cru.org and get details on the Derrys' ministry at their Cru webpage. And catch our first interview with David in Episode 10 of this podcast.
Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Chris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.com
Resources:
Why should you forgive other people?
Jesus gave us a very clear reason: if you don’t, then God won't forgive you.
But there's another good reason: it sets a prisoner free. That prisoner is you.
This week's Bible passage: Colossians 3:11-14
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
Other resources:
A little over a decade ago, as he was struggling with a crisis in his faith, Richard Ramsey was given the opportunity to write and direct a feature film that presented the life of Solomon in a modern-day context. He threw himself into the project and delivered what he thought was a solid film, The Song.
When it lasted only two weeks in theaters, Richard felt like a failure. And he spent the next seven years in a wilderness of projects that never came to fruition.
Then came the chance to co-write and co-direct Unsung Hero, which opens on April 26. As Richard shares in this interview, putting your life together in the aftermath of failure is a main theme in this film . . . just as it has been in Richard’s life.
With a BA in Theatre from the University of Houston, Richard spent his early career impacting the independent film world in Texas. His feature film debut, The Song, was released in 2014 in theaters nationwide. He is the co-director and writer of the upcoming feature film, Unsung Hero. After a six-year tenure as Artistic Director of the award-winning City on a Hill Studio in Louisville, Kentucky, Richard relocated to Nashville where he served four years on the creative staff of Kingdom Story Company. He and his wife live in Tennessee and have five children all named after Beatles songs.
Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Chris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.com
Resources:
Jesus said that, if you have a tiny amount of faith -- faith like a grain of mustard seed -- then you can tell a mountain to throw itself into the sea, and it will happen.
So, why aren’t you moving mountains in your own life? Do you lack the faith?
This week's Bible passage: Hebrews 12:1-3
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
Other resources:
What are you doing to take care of your soul?
After 14 years as a Navy Chaplain and stints as a pastor in an addiction recovery program and local church settings, Greg Woodard has found that caring for your soul is the key to long-term effectiveness. Soul care involves not just having a healthy spiritual life but also developing consistent rhythms, or practices, to boost your physical health, your emotional health, and your relationships.
Get Greg’s insights on how to take your leadership to the next level with some disciplined soul care.
Greg has a Doctor of Ministry in Leadership Renewal and Coaching from Regent University. He is writing a book entitled Living the Connected Life: Soul Rhythms for Purposeful Leadership and has a free guide to cultivating leadership clarity, emotional resilience, and authentic relationships. Email him at greg@gregwoodard.com or visit his website.Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Chris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.com
Resources:
Evil can be difficult to recognize and even tougher to fight. A big part of the battle occurs in the spiritual realm, and most of us are not intimately familiar with that place.
Fortunately, we have powerful allies, and God has equipped us for battle alongside them.
This week's Bible passage: 2 Thessalonians 3:1-5
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
Other resources:
For nearly two decades, David Dusek has been speaking to and speaking with men around the world. Men want and need authentic friendships with other men, says David, but most men are afraid to open up about what's really going on in their lives.
In these highlights from a 2022 interview with David, he explains that, to build trust with men, you need to be real about your own life, including your struggles and failures. Then you can point them to Jesus, the author and perfecter of your faith . . . and theirs.
David started Rough Cut Men Ministries to encourage and equip men to live their lives for Christ. He utilizes his life experiences — and a strategic combination of action movie sequences, real-world current events, Biblical truth, and fireteam-sized discussion groups — to get men talking about what’s really going on in their lives.
Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Chris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.com
Resources:
40 days after Jesus rose from the dead, he gave his disciples a radical mission that would be opposed by nearly everyone. Then Jesus ascended to heaven, leaving his closest followers -- a ragtag group of ordinary young men -- without a leader.
How would these followers gain the courage to fulfill their mission?
This week's Bible passage: Joshua 1:5-9
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
Other resources:
Tim Brown has worked with many successful men. Men who are movers and shakers in their communities. Men with power and platforms and influence.
These men are in positions of leadership, but most of them are not leading – or, at least, not leading well. They have few or no close friends and no real accountability. And they are miserable.
Why? They don’t know who they are, outside of their accomplishments and status. They have no identity.
Tim started the REUP Men’s Movement to help men discover their identity in Christ and encourage, equip, and empower them to be who God made them to be in their leadership of their families, churches, and communities. In this episode, he shares what he’s learned in working with men.
Email Tim at tim@reupmen.com.Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Chris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.com
Resources:
Every time we say the Lord’s Prayer, we ask for God’s will to be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
So what is God’s will? Specifically, what is His will for you?
This week's Bible passage: 2 Peter 3:8-10
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
Other resources:
When you experience a significant loss, such as the death of a loved one, you may try to replace your grief and guilt with something that provides meaning and purpose. But replacement isn’t healing. And you need healing.
After Tim Tucker’s wife Laura died, he wrote a book, Grief and Grace, to chronicle the six months of deep pain, loss, and grief that he experienced. He then remarried, welcomed a new child to join his three children from his first marriage, and took on a new job. But he felt God calling him to write another book on grief. In that book, Finding Life after Death, Tim shares more lessons he’s learned and provides more support to others who are struggling with loss.
You’ll find healing and hope in our discussion with Tim.
In 2013 Tim joined The Message Trust*, founding the first international hub of The Message in Cape Town, South Africa, to reach urban youth through Gospel-centred and holistic discipleship programs. Recently, Tim joined The Message’s global development team to guide operations across Africa.
Tim is passionate about Africa and, in particular, investing in African leaders. His books include The Pace Setter, Grab a Towel, Grief and Grace, and his latest, Finding Life after Death.
Tim is married to Christina. The couple and their four children reside in Cape Town. A wealth of resources from Tim are available at the Grab a Towel site. Connect with Timon Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.*
Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Chris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.com
Resources:
Jesus told Pilate, "For this purpose I was born and for this purpose I have come into the world—to bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth listens to my voice.”
Pilate responded, “What is truth?”
Ultimately, Pilate learned the truth. And the truth set him free.
This week's Bible passage: 2 John 1-6
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
Other resources:
At a time when men's ministries are struggling -- and men are struggling -- Christ Led Communities is thriving. Craig Fry, who has led CLC for the past 11 years, explains why. The two keys to CLC's success, he says, are:
Get Craig's insight into how and why God will bless relational discipleship at your church.
In addition to leading CLC, Craig is the Lead Pastor at Gallatin Church *in Gallatin, TN, northeast of Nashville. He has been a Senior Pastor, a Youth Minister, an Executive Sales Director, and a Chief Operations Officer.
As discussed in this episode, Craig will retire from leading CLC as soon as CLC finds his replacement. The job description is here*.
00:00-03:05 introduction
03:05-07:55 After 15 years out of ministry, God calls Craig to CLC.
07:55-11:30 how God is blessing CLC, and the men in it
11:30-15:35 two keys: building brotherhood bonds and a call to commitment
15:35-20:55 meeting men where they are, and supporting pastors
20:55-25:00 dynamics of a diverse group of men
25:00-27:45 why CLC has a bright future
27:45-33:20 adapting to different countries and cultures
33:20-35:25 calling men out of isolation
35:25-49:08 the impact of CLC; Craig's final thoughts
Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Chris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.com
Resources:
Scholars say that Charles Dickens wrote his most famous work to to alert people to the terrible plight of England’s poor, especially poor children.
I say that he wrote it to tell a story of salvation.
This week's Bible passage: Matthew 16:24-27
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
Other resources:
What role does God play in your personal and family finances?
When he lost his job during the financial crisis of 2008, Bob Lotich heard God calling him to do something crazy: make his blog his full-time job. There was just one problem: the blog was bringing in less than $100 a month. But Bob trusted God, and within nine months he was earning more than he had working for a big financial firm.
In our interview, Bob shares what God has taught him through that experience and other experiences with giving God control of his finances.
Bob Lotich is an award-winning author, podcaster, financial coach, and Certified Educator in Personal Finance (CEPF®). He has been named a top-20 influencer in personal finance, and his writing and advice have been featured in Focus on the Family, Forbes, Yahoo Finance, Inc., Beliefnet, Time, and many others. He shares his best lessons with over 52 million readers and listeners on his blog, SeedTime.com, and the SeedTime Money Podcast.
00:00-03:45 introduction
03:45-12:15 Bob's fence-post story: turning point in his financial life
12:15-18:00 losing a job and starting a new career
18:00-22:10 building the business
22:10-27:00 one thing that financially successful people do
27:00-35:00 highlights from Bob's book, Simple Money, Rich Life
35:00-49:25 what the Bible says about money . . . and why
Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Chris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.com
Resources:
He had no experience, so he winged it. He had no credentials, so he invented some. He forged documents. He bribed officials.
All to save the lives of 669 children he’d never met. Children who, for 50 years, had no idea who he was or what he had done.
This week's Bible passage: Romans 3:21-26
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
Other resources:
In these highlights from episode 37, guest Patrick Melder explains:
After undergraduate studies at Houston Baptist University and medical school at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Patrick became an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) surgeon and sleep specialist. He trained at Walter Reed Army Medical Center and was on active duty with the US Army for 13 years. In 2006 he left the Army as a Lieutenant Colonel and started his private practice career. A serial entrepreneur, Patrick holds nearly 30 US and international patents. He has been involved in church ministry (elder, lay missions pastor), has been on numerous missions trips, and is passionate about God’s mission to the ends of the earth. He has written The Christian Case for Bitcoin andThe Philosophy of Bitcoin and Religion.
Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Chris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.com
Resources:
Tired of seeing your friends sitting on the sidelines with their Christian faith? Tired of waiting for your church to offer something meaningful for men?
Maybe you should follow the example of Cody Andrews.
Cody had no formal religious training and no experience with men's ministry. But he spearheaded an effort to get men's discipleship going at his small church in a small Pennsylvania town. In this interview, he shares how God has blessed his effort and how God can bless yours.
After earning a BA in History at California University of Pennsylvania, Cody began working for a large utility company, and today he designs both commercial and residential electric services. He, his wife, and their two children live in small coal town, Waynesburg, an hour south of Pittsburgh, where they enjoy exploring God’s creation, hunting, kayaking, hiking, fishing, and swimming. After years of volunteer leadership in his church, Cody began to pursue his Master of Divinity degree and hopes to enter full-time ministry.
00:00-02:30 introduction
02:30-07:30 Cody's fence-post stories
07:30-12:00 a call to start men's ministry at a small church
12:00-15:30 getting it started . . . during the pandemic
15:30- 20:30 lighting the discipleship fuse with CLC
20:30-35:00 short-term impact of relational discipleship
35:00-48:22 why relational discipleship is strategic, not tactical
Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Chris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.com
Resources:
No matter how many miracles Jesus performed, the people around him -- religious leaders, ordinary people, and even his closest followers -- kept asking him for another sign that he was the Messiah.
So he gave them one. One that they didn't expect. One that would change the world . . . one person at a time.
This week's Bible passage: Revelation 5:8-14
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
Other resources:
Just a few years after his band, Citizen Way, scored its first #1 song, Ben Calhoun left the Christian music industry.
He never stopped making music. But his experiences in the industry have shaped how he approaches his craft and inspired him to help other artists who strive to use the gifts and talents with which God has blessed them.
Ben’s story and insights will make you take a closer look at how you are using your own gifts and talents to fulfill the Great Commission.
The son of a pastor and musician, Ben is a proud husband and father of three girls in Franklin, Tennessee. He also is the founder of:
Email Ben at ben@bencalhoun.com.00:00-04:00 introduction
04:00-07:05 Ben’s fence-post stories
07:05-09:20 starting and being in a band (Citizen Way)
09:20-15:35 issues with the Christian music industry
15:35- 21:55 issues in the local church
21:55-25:45 a better way to make disciples
25:45-33:22 the importance of the Bible for men
33:22-38:35 banding together with other men around God’s Word
38:35-45:37 how the Bible caused Ben to trust in God
45:37-48:48 the Bible vs. culture
48:48-end supporting Christian artists; the perils of “platforms”
Contact:Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Chris Bolinger: chris@mensdevotionals.com
Resources:
Most of us think of peace as the absence of war or the absence of conflict.
But there’s a war raging. There has been since the dawn of time.
In a universe at war, what kind of peace does God offer?
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
Other resources:
Sadly, much of the church has adopted the same mentality as our corrupt, monetary system. This perverts incentives around fundraising, ministry, and building projects, as well as diluting the gospel in order to maintain financial support.
Jimmy Song, Author of the book, "Fiat Ruins Everything: How Our Financial System Is Rigged and How Bitcoin Fixes This," discusses the implications of a fiat currency mindset infiltrating the church.
Jimmy Song is a Bitcoin developer, educator, and entrepreneur. He’s a programmer with over 20 years’ experience, an open source contributor to many different Bitcoin projects, and the author of Programming Bitcoin, The Little Bitcoin Book, Thank God for Bitcoin, and Bitcoin and the American Dream. Jimmy has been a lecturer at the University of Texas, an expert witness in legal cases involving Bitcoin, and is an advisor to multiple companies. Jimmy writes a weekly newsletter, Bitcoin Tech Talk, and has a podcast Bitcoin Fixes This. His writing can also be found on bitcoinmagazine.com.
RESOURCES:
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel [AUDIO BOOK]
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
BiblicalLeadership.com
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
In addition to the Resurrection, the Gospels record 37 miracles that Jesus performed. One of them was walking on water.
Why did Jesus do that? Was it to prove that he was greater than Moses? To demonstrate that he possessed the power of God? To fulfill a prophecy? To strengthen the faith of his followers?
Or was there another reason?
This week’s Bible passage: Romans 8:31-39
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
Other resources:
God reserves some his harshest words of criticism for monetary debasement. The Old Testament describes this practice as "detestable," "violent," and "grinding the faces of the poor."
Jimmy Song, Author of the book, "Fiat Ruins Everything: How Our Financial System Is Rigged and How Bitcoin Fixes This," discusses the implications of this economic fraud and how we should be thinking about it from a Christian worldview.
Jimmy Song is a Bitcoin developer, educator, and entrepreneur. He’s a programmer with over 20 years’ experience, an open source contributor to many different Bitcoin projects, and the author of Programming Bitcoin, The Little Bitcoin Book, Thank God for Bitcoin, and Bitcoin and the American Dream. Jimmy has been a lecturer at the University of Texas, an expert witness in legal cases involving Bitcoin, and is an advisor to multiple companies. Jimmy writes a weekly newsletter, Bitcoin Tech Talk, and has a podcast Bitcoin Fixes This. His writing can also be found on bitcoinmagazine.com.
RESOURCES:
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel [AUDIO BOOK]
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
BiblicalLeadership.com
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
When we seek to glorify God in our actions, our light can burn so brightly that others can’t help but notice.
I, and 190 others, discovered this 30 years ago on the stage of the Bolshoi Theater in Moscow.
This week’s Bible passage: John 1:1-14
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
Other resources:
Mark Hollis's band had only one big hit, in 1984. Their 1988 album did so poorly that their record label dropped them. The band disbanded in 1992. Hollis left the music industry six years later and died in 2019.
So why is this entire episode devoted to the music of Mark Hollis?
Because it gave life to people. And it still does.
This week’s Bible passage: John 10:1-10
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
Other resources:
A lot of pastors think online preaching doesn’t matter that much. They’re focused on getting real people into their real churches — not some cyber-campus in the Metaverse.
But here’s what many pastors don’t realize: online sermons are their church’s welcome center. Here’s how people “visit” churches today:
The stakes are high. The future of your church and your preaching ministry depends on your ability to communicate online.
That’s where David Murrow can help.
RESOURCES:
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel [AUDIO BOOK]
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
BiblicalLeadership.com
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
In today’s Christianity, we like to recognize and celebrate the goodness of God. God truly is good.
But God also is great. The greatness of God is awesome, but it can be intimidating and even frightening. In fact, God's greatness is so overpowering that it makes Him unapproachable.
Thankfully, God provided a solution.
This week’s Bible passage: Psalm 145
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
Other resources:
Trauma is shockingly common among men. However, most of us don't recognize it in our own lives and this can create tremendous drag on our efforts to lead well.
Dr. Tim Murphy has extensive experience working with men and women struggling with PTSD, especially military veterans. Dr. Murphy recently wrote the book, "The Christ Cure: 10 Biblical Ways to Heal from Trauma, Tragedy, and PTSD," where he provides a valuable guide for family members of victims, clergy, and counselors who seek a better understanding of the role of faith in healing from trauma.
Tim Murphy, PhD, is a licensed psychologist; specializing in resilience and recovery from psychological trauma, and author of three books (most recently, The Christ Cure). He consults on mental health and public policy with national organizations and speaks extensively throughout the US.
He served in the Pennsylvania State Senate (six years) as Chairman of the Aging and Youth Committee, Vice Chairman of Health and Welfare, and member of Appropriations, Banking/Insurance and Rules. As senator he authored the historic Managed Care reform Act.
RESOURCES:
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel [AUDIO BOOK]
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
BiblicalLeadership.com
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
When Jesus explained the parable of the sower, he didn’t explain why the sower in the parable throws the seed everywhere rather than just on the good soil.
John Newton understood why.
This week’s Bible passages: Hosea 10:9-12 and Matthew 13:1-9
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
Other resources:
Leadership is hard. There are days when we don’t feel like motivating or inspiring anyone. Heck, we sometimes wake up feeling tired and discouraged ourselves, so how can we motivate anybody else?
We all have our own doubts and insecurities about our lives and the directions we’re headed. We may wonder, too, if we’re even doing the right things to develop those we lead and help them reach their full potential.
Cory Carlson's book, Rise and Go provides business leaders, entrepreneurs, and executives a resource to help them to overcome setbacks and challenges that come with leading at work and at home.
As an entrepreneur, former executive, husband, and father of three, Cory Carlson understands the pressures working parents face. He is passionate about helping business leaders win at home and work.
Twenty years in corporate America gave Cory amazing opportunities as he worked his way up to the executive level. But he also saw brokenness: work without purpose, burnout, lack of focus, strained marriages, and absentee parents. Business leaders especially were often not living life to the fullest.
When Cory discovered coaching, it helped him become a better leader, husband, and father. So he left his corporate career to help other leaders win at work and at home. Cory does this through executive coaching, speaking, and writing.
RESOURCES:
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel [AUDIO BOOK]
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
BiblicalLeadership.com
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
You've heard the parable of the prodigal son before. Probably lots of times. Everyone loves the story. Right?
Jesus's audience didn't. They hated it. It made them angry.
Find out why.
This week’s Bible passage: Luke 15:11-32
Chris Rice's song "Home Tonight":
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
Other resources:
Jesus's parable about foolish and wise builders highlights the fact that water can be a destructive force. In September 2022, Hurricane Ian demonstrated that across southwest Florida.
But Jesus wasn't giving advice on home construction. He was talking about life . . . and about God.
This week’s Bible passage: Matthew 7:24-27
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
Other resources:
In a world full of male provocateurs and bravado how are men supposed to exemplify true courage and strength?Our guest today, Aaron Renn, helps us understand the significance of self-mastery in the life of a man. As men who are grounded in Christ there's no need for fear and vitriol. We have an opportunity to be a stabilizing influence in our culture through self-control and integrity.
Aaron Renn, is a writer and consultant in Indianapolis who is a co-founder and Senior Fellow at American Reformer. His first career was in management and technology consulting advising major corporations as a Partner at Accenture. Aaron's second career was in urban policy as a Senior Fellow at the Manhattan Institute for Policy Research. Today his focus is on helping conservatives and the American church rise to the challenge of finding success in the 21st century.
Aaron's work has appeared in a number of leading global publications, including The Guardian, The Wall Street Journal, The Atlantic and others. He's been frequently cited in many publications around the world.
RESOURCES:
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
In Matthew 20, Jesus tells a parable that compares the kingdom of heaven to workers in a vineyard. This is a parable that may make you frustrated and even angry. If the kingdom of God is like this, then how is the kingdom of God fair?
It's not . . . unless there is joy in work.
This week’s Bible passage: Ephesians 2:8-10
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)
Other resources:
God wants to use your passion to spread the gospel!
Brock Gill, Founder of MotoMission, author, and former illusionist, stumbled upon a unique way to spread the gospel that happens to coincide with his passion - adventure motorcycle riding.
Brock Gill has been passionate about riding motorcycles his whole life. His first bike was a 1980 Kawasaki KD80. A year later, he saved money by pulling weeds from an elderly ladies garden and bought an 82 Yamaha YZ80. When he was 22 years old he began doing magic shows. For the next 25 years, he and his wife traveled 300 days a year touring the world doing stage shows. One thing Brock was known for was riding a motorcycle on stage blind folded. He performed it on TV for the first time on a show called Fox and Friends on FOX NEWS.
In 2022, Brock finally fulfilled his dream to ride the Trans America Trail. Riding from the Atlantic to the Pacific on dirt roads was an epic adventure. When he reached the west coast he decided that he would continue to ride and film his journey for the YouTube channel. Now you can find Brock riding somewhere in the world bringing hope and good news to people he meets along the way.
RESOURCES:
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
As Jesus demonstrated, when we’re tempted, we need to rely on God and God's Word. But we also can turn to something that Jesus didn’t have when he was all alone in the wilderness: the support and help of a Christian brother.
For an example of that, host Chris Bolinger turns to the Lord of the Rings trilogy.
This week’s Bible passage: Hebrews 2:14-18
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback)
Other resources:
Business networking can be a scary thing for most people.In his new book, Great People Know Great People: Create a Powerful Business Referral Network of Great People, Alex Giannetti equips readers to improve their networking skills.
However, the principles we unpack in this discussion transcend business. Every Christian will benefit from the perspective we glean about relationships, our identity in Christ, and the way God uses other people in our lives.
Alex Giannetti is the President of Christian Business Partners, Inc., and a Realtor in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He holds a BA in Business and Communications from Liberty University. His passion is coaching others in business networking, personal finance, and biblical discipleship.
RESOURCES:
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
We’re supposed to rejoice in our sufferings? Seriously? That’s absurd. When we experience suffering or see someone else suffering, we want the suffering to end. Now.
And, during suffering, we sometimes ask, where is God? A famous author asked that question when he lost his beloved wife.
For an answer, host Chris Bolinger turns to an unlikely place.
This week’s Bible passage: Romans 5:1-5
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback)
Other resources:
Most entrepreneurs are taught to start with a business plan. While that might be what conventional wisdom says, often God has his own plan.
Rick Avon, Owner/Principal of Avon Design Group in Pittsburgh, PA, didn't start with a business plan. Instead, Rick shares how he was led by the Holy Spirit as he built his company. He never could have foreseen the way God would take him from a professional detour as a Superintendent to eventually starting his own firm.
It has become clear to Rick that he has not been in control, and he brings us a refreshing perspective on the Holy Spirit's role in building a business.
RESOURCES:
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
God has blessed you with certain gifts. When you make the most of those gifts, and you use them to serve others, you honor God. And God honors you in return.
That's the theme of host Chris Bolinger's all-time favorite film. And the gist of the note that one sprinter handed to another one hundred years ago.
This week’s Bible passage: 1 Peter 4:8-11
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback)
Other resources:
In a world of shallow relationships how do you foster a disciple-making culture?
Our guest today, Ronnie Cordrey, the Men's Pastor at Southeast Christian Church in Louisville, KY, discusses some key principles for creating a culture of discipleship among men in any ministry context.
Whether you're a pastor, a men's ministry leader, or simply a guy who wants to start discipling other men, this interview is for you!
RESOURCES:
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
Why do you pray?
There are obvious, Sunday School answers to that question:
But why do you pray? Really?
It may be for the same reasons that Rocky prays in host Chris Bolinger's favorite Rocky film.
This week’s Bible passage: Luke 18:1-8
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback)
Other resources:
What if you had to lead a team after being dropped in behind enemy lines?
As a former Navy Seal, Charles Crouch learned to do just that. Through many times when Charles should have died, God was on his side. However, he didn't realize at the time that God was preparing him to be a leader in a more profound battle for His kingdom's sake.
After leaving the Navy Seals because he felt God was calling him to something even more significant, Charles took his family on a trip across the country. During this time he discovered the power of the Holy Spirit to use he and his family for God's redemptive purposes.
Since being out of the Navy, Charles has learned much about business and leadership and facilitates executive roundtables of Christian business owners and entrepreneurs in Dallas and does speaking on the side.
His mission statement is to "Make Monogamy and Being a Good Dad Sexy Again!"
RESOURCES:
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
We love stories where someone's patience pays off. Like the story of Kurt Warner. He stocked shelves, played in the Arena Football League and in Europe, and sat the bench in the NFL before getting his chance to start. Then, of course, he made the most of it.
But for every Kurt Warner, there are thousands of guys who are just as talented, train just as hard, and never make it to the big leagues.
And then there’s you and me. We’re not working for a chance to operate on a big stage.
What's our payoff for being patient?
This week’s Bible passage: Galatians 6:7-10
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback)
Other resources:
The world teaches us, as men, that success looks like being in charge, independent, or self-sufficient.Our guest today,prolific business leader and public servant, Ron Simmons, argues that success has more to do with living a meaningful life according to God's purposes.
In his new book, Life Lessons from the Little Red Wagon: 15 Ways to Take Charge and Create a Path to Success, Simmons invites us to leave ordinary behind and glide into the richly meaningful life you were intended to live.
Simmons has learned that it isn’t a lack of talent or ability that often holds us back. It’s the lure of the safe, comfortable path that threatens to keep us stuck in a rut of fear and negativity, speeding along with no clear destination, or passively catching a ride instead of taking initiative and action.
RESOURCES:
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
Obedience is not a sexy topic. For a lot of guys, obedience is about as exciting as singing in church. You do it, or at least attempt to do it, because it’s what’s expected of you. But you’re not motivated to excel at it.
One the greatest hymns ever written tells us why we need to make consistent obedience a priority. And Jesus's words to his disciples at the Last Supper reveal how we can be obedient, every day.
This week’s Bible passage: Romans 6:15-23
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback)
Other resources:
If you are going to have a successful marriage, then you need to master conflict resolution. But there are two big obstacles to resolving conflicts in your marriage:
As a result, a lot of marital conflicts end up at an impasse. What's the answer?
Dr. Emerson Eggerichs says that the answer lies in Ephesians 5.
This week’s Bible passage: Ephesians 5:25-33
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback)
Other resources:
interview with Jonathan Cain referenced in this episode
The 2023 Men's Weekend is in the books and it was a powerful, life-changing experience!
This is the first of Mike Hatch's three messages from the weekend that focused on the three main points of his book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel. Mike spoke about the significance of walking in the light where a man is...
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Most men today are disempowered. Lost and groping in the dark, they are driven by fear and insecurity. Isolation and loneliness have defined us as a generation, and the tragic result has been dysfunctional marriage, broken families, and a society with no mooring to truth. Addictions to pornography, alcohol, drugs, and gaming have enslaved men and stolen our confidence.
As a recovering pornography addict himself, Pastor Mike Hatch is well acquainted with feelings of disempowerment and hopelessness. Whether you are battling addiction, infidelity, or a crisis of purpose or identity, you will find this book to be accessible, readable, and highly actionable, built for you to make progress quickly and intentionally.
The empowered man does not just know about God but is known by him; he understands God as the source of power for character improvement; and he transcends his own agenda to be a powerful tool in the hand of God. Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel focuses on these three principles to provide guidance, encouragement, and resources for Christian men who are struggling with fear and insecurity. You'll learn how being Known by God, Grown by God, and Owned by God provides the contentment to accept all circumstances of life, the clarity to embrace your transcendent and redemptive purpose, and the freedom to live courageously once again.
RESOURCES:
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
Some Christians posit that fear and anxiety are sinful, evidence of a lack of trust in God. Other Christians consider that viewpoint an oversimplification that can lead to destructive denial, guilt, and shame. The Bible, they say, offers compassion and answers, not condemnation.
Join host Chris Bolinger as he explores healthy ways to overcome fear and anxiety.
This week’s Bible passage: Matthew 6:25-34
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback)
Other resources:
article from Australia referenced in this episode
The 2023 Men's Weekend is in the books and it was a powerful, life-changing experience!
This is the first of Mike Hatch's three messages from the weekend that focused on the three main points of his book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel. Mike spoke about the significance of walking in the light where a man is...
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Most men today are disempowered. Lost and groping in the dark, they are driven by fear and insecurity. Isolation and loneliness have defined us as a generation, and the tragic result has been dysfunctional marriage, broken families, and a society with no mooring to truth. Addictions to pornography, alcohol, drugs, and gaming have enslaved men and stolen our confidence.
As a recovering pornography addict himself, Pastor Mike Hatch is well acquainted with feelings of disempowerment and hopelessness. Whether you are battling addiction, infidelity, or a crisis of purpose or identity, you will find this book to be accessible, readable, and highly actionable, built for you to make progress quickly and intentionally.
The empowered man does not just know about God but is known by him; he understands God as the source of power for character improvement; and he transcends his own agenda to be a powerful tool in the hand of God. Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel focuses on these three principles to provide guidance, encouragement, and resources for Christian men who are struggling with fear and insecurity. You'll learn how being Known by God, Grown by God, and Owned by God provides the contentment to accept all circumstances of life, the clarity to embrace your transcendent and redemptive purpose, and the freedom to live courageously once again.
RESOURCES:
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
Being a father is a never-ending job with a ton of responsibility and uncertain outcomes. But it's arguably the most important job you'll ever have.
Host Chris Bolinger explores the challenges and impacts of fatherhood.
This week’s Bible passage: Galatians 4:1-7
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback)
Other resources:
People are increasingly unable to get along. Differences often divide us - even in churches, Christian workplaces, and among Christian couples. But conflict and division don't have to be the norm, nor are they God's intention for how His people should operate.
Imagine if those you live and work with consistently felt understood - everyone's strengths are known, valued, and fully integrated. That reality is possible.
Our guest today, Rodney Cox, helps us understand how to Develop strong teams built on empathy, understanding, and trust, where every team member feels valued and contributes at the highest level possible. As you'll learn, Christ-like love plays a critical role. Rodney Cox, president of Ministry Insights International, and author of the book Leading From Your Strengths®.
RESOURCES:
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
What did Jesus say when he attracted a large crowd? He said things that drove most of the people away.
Why? Jesus didn’t want fans; he wanted followers. And being a real follower is tough. It takes discipline.
Host Chris Bolinger will present a famous example of the value of discipline and explain why discipline in your life is even more important.
This week’s Bible passage: Proverbs 3:1-12
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback)
Other resources:
The interview with Tretiak comes from the documentary Do You Believe in Miracles?.
The church is approaching sexual addiction wrong.Our guest today, Dr. David Janvier LPC, has been working with sex addicts for 20 years, and his unique approach has impacted countless men over the years, including you host, Mike Hatch.
Join us as we learn more from Dave's vast experience. He'll explain how to approach sex addiction holistically. Traditionally, the church has approached this issue from a primarily cognitive perspective which has sadly caused a lot of harm.
Dave entered the counseling field as a Licensed Professional Counselor 20 years ago by an invitation and a calling. The invitation was God leading Dave to deeper levels of personal healing and a greater experience of God’s presence and Grace. The calling was to go forth, create healing spaces for others and equip those called to do the healing work and ministry of Jesus.
Viewing this work as missional and spiritually formative, Dave has integrated psychology and counseling modalities with theology and spiritual formation. He views himself as a spiritual companion to those who are in need of deep healing from devastating trauma, profound suffering and enslaving addictions.
RESOURCES:
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
In his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus didn't say, "Blessed are the peacekeepers." He said, "Blessed are the peacemakers." Making peace often involves conflict. And conflict carries a lot of risk.
In this episode, we'll look at biblical "best practices" for conflict.
This week’s Bible passage: Romans 12:17-19
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback)
Other resources:
Entrepreneurship is not for the faint of heart. Many Christians today prefer to avoid it because we perceive it to be too risky.
Thank God our guest today, James Fitzgerald, was courageous enough to take the leap. Otherwise we might not have had incredible resources like Focus on the Family's "The Truth Project," or "Drive Thru History."
We follow James' journey from his business in the early years of the cable industry, to coming to faith after being invited to a bible study, to founding ColdWater Media with his wife. His story is as full of twist and turns and unexpected surprises as his productions.
ColdWater Media develops and produces very high quality education media for online learning. They develop and create educational media that is beautiful, transformative, memorable and entertaining.
They have produced innovative, award-winning, documentaries and video curricula. Examples include over 100 episodes of "Drive Thru History with Dave Stotts," The Truth Project, True U, PovertyCure, Poverty, Inc., Birth of Freedom, and The Call of the Entrepreneur, 33 Minutes, Veteran Nation, Doing the Right Thing, 7 short films for the Museum of the Bible, two teaching series and three national ad spots for Hillsdale College including "Introduction to the Constitution," and "Aristotle."
RESOURCES:
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
In the Marvel movies, Hulk is always, always angry. But that's not necessarily a bad thing.
Anger is an emotion, a reaction to something that threatens you or someone you love. Anger has some positive attributes, but misdirected anger can lead to dangerous and destructive behavior. Host Chris Bolinger discusses how we can follow the command to "be angry, and do not sin."
This week’s Bible passage: Ephesians 4:26-27
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback)
Other resources:
Servant leadership is a very trendy topic these days, but practically speaking it's one of the hardest things to do.
Tim Tucker, Author of Grab a Towel: Christ-Centered Leadership for the 21st Century, has been through tremendous hardships in his life. Somehow, God has empowered him through those times of overwhelming grief and hardship to continually don the towel of servant leadership.
Tim shares his compelling story of God's faithfulness in his life and how, often in spite of himself, the Lord used him to foster a movement in Africa. He credits his impact to the "steel spine" God provided him.
Tim lives in Cape Town, South Africa and has a PhD in Practical Theology from North West University. In 2013 Tim joined The Message Trust, founding the first international hub of The Message in Cape Town, South Africa. They officially launched The Message South Africa in February 2014 with a focus on reaching tough urban youth through Gospel-centred and holistic discipleship programmes.
In 2023, Tim joined the Message global development team and is responsible for the African region.
Tim is passionate about Africa and, in particular, investing in African leaders. His first book, The Pace Setter, was published by Message Books in 2014. The second book, Grab a Towel: Christ-centered leadership for the 21st century, was released in May 2018. In 2019 he released an autobiographical book called Grief and Grace tracking his journey through the loss of his late wife. Tim is currently married to Christina and they have four children.
RESOURCES:
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
This is the debut episode of Throwing Mountains: Weekly Strength, a podcast that helps you draw strength, and encouragement, from the Bible. In this episode, host Chris Bolinger covers why he’s doing this weekly podcast. He also explains what encouragement really is and why you need to receive it, and give it to others, every day.
This week’s Bible passage: Romans 7:21-25a
Podcast resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback)
Other resources:
The Bible was meant to be read in 3D!
Our guest, Dr. John DeLancey, Director of Biblical Israel Ministries, helps us understand how the literal topography of the land of Israel helps to more accurately interpret the bible. John calls this understanding the bible through the context of the land.
The topography of Israel is unlike any other place on earth. You gain a much deeper understanding of scripture as you learn about the role this unique landscape had on the people and events of the Bible. You'll never read the bible the same again!
Also, you'll learn more about the trip to Israel John and Mike will be co-leading next September, 2024. Email Mike Hatch (mhatch@clchq.org) or Dr. John DeLancey (DrJohn@BiblicalIsraelTours.com) for more information about the trip.
Dr. John DeLancey served as lead pastor for 26 years in two evangelical churches. He's led 86 tours of Israel, numerous of these trips included both Jordan & Egypt. In addition, John has excavated at 7 archeological sites in Israel. John has authored two books, including Devotional Treasures from the Holy Land and Connecting the Dots Between the Bible and the Land of Israel.
RESOURCES:
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
Did you have a coach who positively (or negatively) impacted your life? What if you could have a similar influence on other people in your life wherever you find yourself, at work, in your family, at church?
Author and Coach, Levi Nelson talks with us about the significance of developing our own philosophy of coaching that is as unique as we are. Whether you're a coach, a parent, pastor, or executive, you'll be challenged about how you approach all your relationships from a posture of Love, Effort, Attitude, and Discipline.
In his book,L.E.A.D.: A Coach's Playbook on how to Positively Impact the World Through Love, Effort, Attitude, and Discipline, Coach Levi Nelson describes the importance of formulating your own coaching philosophy and guides you through the process he used to find his own life’s mission to positively impact the world through Love, Effort, Attitude, and Discipline (LEAD).
Coach Nelson shares proven methods from the field of sport and performance psychology and best practices from his own experience as a head football coach and certified trainer for the Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA) on practical ways to implement the characteristics within LEAD to your own coaching practice.
Coach Nelson holds a doctorate in Sport and Performance Psychology, two master’s degrees, and he also currently serves as a college professor and coach developer for USA Hockey.
RESOURCES:
MEN'S WEEKEND DETAILS:Empowered Manhood Men's Weekend (https://www.empoweredmanhood.com/event-details/empowered-manhood-mens-weekend)
ISRAEL EXPERIENCE:
Empowered Manhood Israel Experience (https://registernow.ittworld.com/)
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
Many men today live out of fear and insecurity that handicaps our ability to lead courageously. How do we confront the fears that so often paralyzes us? What does it look like to embrace risk and trust God in uncertainty?Our guest today, Michael McDonald, is a man who's been in many precarious situations throughout his life, most of them not of his choosing. Somehow, by God's providence, he's found his way through and discovered new levels of God's faithfulness.
You'll learn how God uses the cumulative experiences of our lives, both successes and failures, to refine us and prepare us for roles and purposes we'd never dream of previously.
Michael McDonald is the Chief Global Focus & Strategic Relationships Officer for the BibleProject. He works on cultivating awareness and creating strategic relationships with churches, organizations and other non-profits that are looking to use BibleProject Videos in their context. He also leads BibleProject's Global Focus team which is working on localizing their videos into different languages.
He previously spent 11 years leading a global development organization as well as serving on several boards for international organizations with compassion and justice missions. In a previous life, he owned and operated restaurants in Canada and the US, and still loves enjoying a great meal in new cities with his wife, Melissa.
RESOURCES:
MEN'S WEEKEND DETAILS:Empowered Manhood Men's Weekend (https://www.empoweredmanhood.com/event-details/empowered-manhood-mens-weekend)
ISRAEL EXPERIENCE:
Empowered Manhood Israel Experience (https://registernow.ittworld.com/)
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
Suffering sucks. However, it is the thing God uses most often to refine us, make us more like Jesus, and grow us as leaders. The key is trusting in God's character through the process.
How do we persist in believing that God is good when we often don't understand the challenging circumstances we're facing?
Our guest today, PW Gopal, has endured his fair share of suffering, along with his wife and family. He's learned the hard way to trust God and take him at his word. Along the way, PW has communicated his frustrations and his joy through music and songwriting.
We had the privilege of listening to PW's compelling story through three of the songs he wrote and performed including "Stacking Maybe's," "Fall to Pieces," and "The Newest Parts." Join us as we vicariously journey through his life and apply impactful lessons to the nitty gritty of our own lives.
RESOURCES:
MEN'S WEEKEND DETAILS:Empowered Manhood Men's Weekend (https://www.empoweredmanhood.com/event-details/empowered-manhood-mens-weekend)
ISRAEL EXPERIENCE:
Empowered Manhood Israel Experience (https://registernow.ittworld.com/)
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
The state of men's discipleship in the church today is anemic at best. Our guest today, Bob Jamison, President and Founder of Adam's Quest Men's Ministry, helps us think through the significance of men's discipleship in the church, as well as the critical role of mentorship.
We discuss the impact of the book, Four Chair Discipleship: Growing a Movement of Disciple-Makers, on Bob and his ministry with CLC. You'll gain a valuable framework for understanding the development of a disciple.
Bob Jamison served for 24 years as President of Family Guidance, Inc., one of the region’s strongest programs for at-risk youth and families. Before coming to Family Guidance, Bob served in college administration at Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh.
He has a B.A. degree in communication from Carnegie Mellon, a marketing certificate from the University of Pittsburgh, and a Master’s Degree in Public Management from the Heinz School at Carnegie Mellon
Bob is co-founder of the Greater Pittsburgh Community Leaders Prayer Breakfast, Prayer Over Pittsburgh, and Pittsburgh Prayer Evangelism and has served on the Mayor’s Youth Policy Council and the advisory boards for The Pittsburgh Experiment, CityReachers, the Southwestern Pennsylvania Mentoring Partnerships, and the National Fatherhood Initiative, Friends of Propel Charter School, Gang Free Schools Steering Committee for the Pittsburgh Public Schools, and Urban Impact Foundation.
His life and ministry are highlighted in The Story Behind the Success: Learning from Pittsburgh Professionals. He has traveled in mission to Mexico, Argentina, England, and Brazil.
RESOURCES:
MEN'S WEEKEND DETAILS:Empowered Manhood Men's Weekend (https://www.empoweredmanhood.com/event-details/empowered-manhood-mens-weekend)
ISRAEL EXPERIENCE:
Empowered Manhood Israel Experience (https://registernow.ittworld.com/)
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
Biblical Leadership looks a lot different than many men realize. More often than not it looks less like confident self-sufficiency and more like a desperate dependance on God.
Our guest today, Author and Publisher, Tom Harper, helps us clarify what true biblical leadership looks like. Tom shares very transparently about the season of hell he walked his family through in 2020.
From deaths in the family, to nearly losing his business, we glean significant lessons about leadership through Tom's life experience. We also gain invaluable insights into how to lead our family and business through the toughest of times. Spoiler alert: It has nothing to do with your capabilities!
Tom Harper is publisher of BiblicalLeadership.com and executive chairman of Networld Media Group. He has written five books, including
RESOURCES:
MEN'S WEEKEND DETAILS:Empowered Manhood Men's Weekend (https://www.empoweredmanhood.com/event-details/empowered-manhood-mens-weekend)
ISRAEL EXPERIENCE:
Empowered Manhood Israel Experience (https://registernow.ittworld.com/)
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
Making the leap from boyhood to manhood is the most important transition that your son will make. His happiness, self-confidence, and future marriage all depend on successfully navigating his teenage years.
As fathers, we can either sit by as our sons stumble over their own mistakes, or we can lovingly share our experiences with them to help them build lives of purpose and meaning.
But how can we effectively pass down intergenerational knowledge in a meaningful way when today’s thirteen-year-old is more influenced by his phone than his father?
This is why our guest today, Steven Arms, wrote the book, "Milestone to Manhood: A Christian Rite of Passage to Help Your 13-Year Old Son Make the Leap from Boyhood to Manhood," where he shares about the rite of passage experience his father planned for he and his brothers.
In our interview with Steven today we discuss why it's important to organize a rite of passage weekend for your son or daughter. We also walk through the weekend step-by-step and get practical guidance and advice for thinking through what it could look like.
RESOURCES:
MEN'S WEEKEND DETAILS:Empowered Manhood Men's Weekend (https://www.empoweredmanhood.com/event-details/empowered-manhood-mens-weekend)
ISRAEL EXPERIENCE:
Empowered Manhood Israel Experience (https://registernow.ittworld.com/)
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
Listen to the introduction and first chapter of Mike's book:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/special-edition-manhood-empowered-by-the-light-of/id1584970534?i=1000603237979
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
Dr. Dan Nahrwold had heard of CLC's life-changing "All In" discipleship curriculum but experiencing it for himself surpassed all his expectations.
Dan shares about how God planted seeds in his life several years earlier, and how those seeds led to eventually starting his own "All In" group after moving to Tampa, FL. We spend some time discussing the significance of relationships in men's discipleship and how that accountability impacts our approach to work and our careers.
Dr. Daniel Nahrwold is an Assistant Member in the Moffitt Cancer Center Department of Anesthesiology. Dr. Nahrwold earned his MD at the Indiana University School of Medicine. He then completed an Anesthesiology Residency at Vanderbilt University Medical Center followed by a Critical Care Medicine Fellowship at the University of California, San Francisco.
MEN'S WEEKEND DETAILS:Empowered Manhood Men's Weekend (https://www.empoweredmanhood.com/event-details/empowered-manhood-mens-weekend)
ISRAEL EXPERIENCE:
Empowered Manhood Israel Experience (https://registernow.ittworld.com/)
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
Listen to the introduction and first chapter of Mike's book:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/special-edition-manhood-empowered-by-the-light-of/id1584970534?i=1000603237979
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
Daily Strength for Men: A 365-Day Devotional*
* 52 Weeks of Strength for Men
Many men today have abdicated their self-sovereignty in favor of a sovereign empire. We've entrusted ourselves to the state rather than to God. As we seek to lead our families how do we reclaim the role God gave us to take dominion of the earth, to rule over it, and to be fruitful and multiply?
In the second half of our interview with TikTok influencer, Cody Thompson, he shares with us some scriptural and philosophical insights that will both challenge and encourage you.
We discuss the ways he and his family has started to accept responsibility for growing their own food, staying healthy, and embrace honest money. We focus the conversation primarily on Bitcoin as Cody unpacks it's significance to us, as Christians, and self-sovereign men of God.
RESOURCES:
Follow Cody on TikTok - @parallel_structures
MEN'S WEEKEND DETAILS:Empowered Manhood Men's Weekend (https://www.empoweredmanhood.com/event-details/empowered-manhood-mens-weekend)
ISRAEL EXPERIENCE:
Empowered Manhood Israel Experience (https://registernow.ittworld.com/)
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
Listen to the introduction and first chapter of Mike's book:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/special-edition-manhood-empowered-by-the-light-of/id1584970534?i=1000603237979
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
Often God will get our attention through suffering. Unfortunately, it takes some of us longer than others to finally come to our senses and surrender to God's will.
Cody Thompson has an incredible story that entails a long road of trials and suffering on his way to finally discovering God's faithfulness. We took an entire hour in this first half of our interview with Cody to unpack his amazing journey.
You'll certainly relate to the wild ride of Cody's story and you'll be inspired along the way with the profound lessons about God's goodness and faithfulness.
MEN'S WEEKEND DETAILS:Empowered Manhood Men's Weekend (https://www.empoweredmanhood.com/event-details/empowered-manhood-mens-weekend)
ISRAEL EXPERIENCE:
Empowered Manhood Israel Experience (https://registernow.ittworld.com/)
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
Listen to the introduction and first chapter of Mike's book:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/special-edition-manhood-empowered-by-the-light-of/id1584970534?i=1000603237979
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
How do you know that the events recorded in the bible really happened? Many people today doubt the credibility of the bible. Our guest today, Dr. John DeLancey, has led nearly 80 trips to Israel and participated in multiple archeological digs that have bolstered his own faith, as well as those he's led on tours.
We discuss the physical land of the bible, and how seeing it first-hand leads to a much deeper understanding of the stories in the bible. We also hear about John's newest book, "Connecting the Dots: Between the Bible and the Land of Israel."
Dr. DeLancey Served as lead pastor for 26 years in two evangelical churches – Stoneridge Covenant Church, Allison Park, PA and Calvary Covenant Church, Evansville, MN. Tour Leader of 79 Israel Tours. Numerous of these trips included both Jordan & Egypt. Adjunct professor/teacher at the Solid Rock School of Discipleship/College (2016-2019) and the International Theological College & Seminary in Phnom Penh, Cambodia (2019), John is a sought after speaker. He is the author of two books, “Devotional Treasures from the Holyland“ and "Connecting the Dots: Between the Bible and the Land of Israel."
RESOURCES:
biblicalisraeltours.comJohn DeLancey's YouTube Channel
MEN'S WEEKEND DETAILS:Empowered Manhood Men's Weekend (https://www.empoweredmanhood.com/event-details/empowered-manhood-mens-weekend)
ISRAEL EXPERIENCE:
Empowered Manhood Israel Experience (https://registernow.ittworld.com/)
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
Listen to the introduction and first chapter of Mike's book:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/special-edition-manhood-empowered-by-the-light-of/id1584970534?i=1000603237979
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
If you recently saw the film, "The Sound of Freedom," with Jim Caviezel then this interview with Alan Smyth, Author and Executive Director of Saving Innocence, will be a great next step in your journey of education around human trafficking. It will also make the issue of sex trafficking much more personal.
Our discussion today focuses on Alan's book, "MEN! Fight for me: The Role of Authentic Masculinity in Ending Sexual Exploitation and Trafficking."
With over 30 years of nonprofit management and experience, Alan Smyth currently serves as the Executive Director at Saving Innocence, a human trafficking organization committed to serving, empowering, and advocating for victims of human trafficking.
RESOURCES:
SavingInnocence.org
Follow @savinginnocence
Buy the Book on Amazon
FightForMe.net
Follow @fightformebook
Contact Alan Smyth: info@savinginnocence.org
MEN'S WEEKEND DETAILS:Empowered Manhood Men's Weekend (https://www.empoweredmanhood.com/event-details/empowered-manhood-mens-weekend)
ISRAEL EXPERIENCE:
Empowered Manhood Israel Experience (https://registernow.ittworld.com/)
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
Listen to the introduction and first chapter of Mike's book:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/special-edition-manhood-empowered-by-the-light-of/id1584970534?i=1000603237979
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
From this point forward, the podcast formerly known as Empowered Manhood will be Throwing Mountains.
After much deliberation, prayer, and discussion Chris & Mike share with you the reasoning behind the rebrand of this podcast. We're excited to be joining the BiblicalLeadership.com Podcast Network which will extend our reach, and has helped clarify our mission moving forward.
You'll still get the same transparent interviews and inspiring fencepost stories of men who've been used by God. Our new emphasis on leadership is intended to encourage more men to step into the gap, assume their leadership roles, and live self-sacrificially for the sake of God's redemptive purposes.
Join us on the journey as we discover God's call on our lives, as men, to "throw mountains!" (Mark 11:23)
RESOURCES:
Throwing Mountains Podcast Website
EmpoweredManhood.com
ChrisBolinger.com
MEN'S WEEKEND DETAILS:Empowered Manhood Men's Weekend (https://www.empoweredmanhood.com/event-details/empowered-manhood-mens-weekend)
ISRAEL EXPERIENCE:
Empowered Manhood Israel Experience (https://registernow.ittworld.com/)
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
Listen to the introduction and first chapter of Mike's book:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/special-edition-manhood-empowered-by-the-light-of/id1584970534?i=1000603237979
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
It didn't matter if it was a book, a movie, or even a Broadway show, it was stories that engaged Bob Wheatley's heart.
What he soon realized was that his love for stories was touching something deeper. It was fueled by his longing for God. These things weren't just stories. They were more like God's whispers and he was using them to draw Bob close.
The story he wanted to live was simple, and I'm sure you'll recognize it as well...
You get the idea. This story is the deepest desire of the human heart. So we tell it again and again.
It is also, as Bob describes in our interview today, the story of the Bible. Bob's heart in writing "Our Hearts Desire," was with one goal in mind - He wanted to help you fall in love with God. He wanted you to experience the love, joy and passion you seek. And you will find them by discovering, the story.
So we dive deeper into these premise in our interview today. And I think it will help you to fall more in love with God, as well as draw you back to you and closer to God's word.
RESOURCES:BobWheatley.com Book: Our Heart's Desire: How Our Stories Reveal the Thing We Want Most Bob's Podcast: The Single's Show Social Media: @bobwheatley
MEN'S WEEKEND DETAILS:Empowered Manhood Men's Weekend (https://www.empoweredmanhood.com/event-details/empowered-manhood-mens-weekend)
ISRAEL EXPERIENCE:
Empowered Manhood Israel Experience (https://registernow.ittworld.com/)
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
Listen to the introduction and first chapter of Mike's book:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/special-edition-manhood-empowered-by-the-light-of/id1584970534?i=1000603237979
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
Are you searching for something that feels out of reach?
Are you longing for something you can't seem to find?
If we're honest, most of us probably feel like something's missing. Well, you're not alone. All humans are born with the same desire. We want love, joy, peace, and abundance. The only problem is very few of us ever find them.
In a world filled with so many people with unmet desires, it's no wonder why we feel so alone. But it doesn't have to be that way. The truth is the stories we've always been drawn to and perhaps thought were mere entertainment have actually been invitations from God. They aren't just stories. They're whispers from our father and he wants us to hope in his promises.
Today, we speak with Bob Wheatley, the author of the book, Our Heart's Desire: How Our Stories Reveal the Thing We Want Most. Bob is former professional baseball player, an author, and podcast host.
We cannot escape our deepest desire.
The human heart longs for many things―love, joy, peace, abundance―but it longs for one thing even more: to experience a love story with God. In our interview today, Bob reveals that all our favorite stories provide whispers of God's truth.
RESOURCES:BobWheatley.com Book: Our Heart's Desire: How Our Stories Reveal the Thing We Want Most Bob's Podcast: The Single's Show
MEN'S WEEKEND DETAILS:Empowered Manhood Men's Weekend (https://www.empoweredmanhood.com/event-details/empowered-manhood-mens-weekend)
ISRAEL EXPERIENCE:
Empowered Manhood Israel Experience (https://registernow.ittworld.com/)
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
Listen to the introduction and first chapter of Mike's book:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/special-edition-manhood-empowered-by-the-light-of/id1584970534?i=1000603237979
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
The world is changing and as men we are often caught between traditional values and the pressure to conform to a society that deemphasizes masculinity, fatherhood and brotherhood. This is why being a member of the brotherhood of fatherhood is so important to bringing clarity to God's purposes.
It has been the mission of our guest, Scott Rammage, to create a framework where men can be intentional, are held accountable and can create a strong bond that allows them to be openly accessible to one another and their families.
Through his podcast, coaching services, and events, Scott aims to instill greatness and leadership in men's homes, careers and communities.
RESOURCESThe Brotherhood of Fatherhood WebsiteThe Brotherhood of Fatherhood Podcast
MEN'S WEEKEND DETAILS:Empowered Manhood Men's Weekend (https://www.empoweredmanhood.com/event-details/empowered-manhood-mens-weekend)
ISRAEL EXPERIENCE:
Empowered Manhood Israel Experience (https://registernow.ittworld.com/)
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
Listen to the introduction and first chapter of Mike's book:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/special-edition-manhood-empowered-by-the-light-of/id1584970534?i=1000603237979
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
The world is changing and as men we are often caught between traditional values and the pressure to conform to a society that deemphasizes masculinity, fatherhood and brotherhood. This is why being a member of the brotherhood of fatherhood is so important to bringing clarity to God's purposes.
It has been the mission of our guest, Scott Rammage, to create a framework where men can be intentional, are held accountable and can create a strong bond that allows them to be openly accessible to one another and their families.
Through his podcast, coaching services, and events, Scott aims to instill greatness and leadership in men's homes, careers and communities.
RESOURCESThe Brotherhood of Fatherhood WebsiteThe Brotherhood of Fatherhood Podcast
MEN'S WEEKEND DETAILS:Empowered Manhood Men's Weekend (https://www.empoweredmanhood.com/event-details/empowered-manhood-mens-weekend)
ISRAEL EXPERIENCE:
Empowered Manhood Israel Experience (https://registernow.ittworld.com/)
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
Listen to the introduction and first chapter of Mike's book:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/special-edition-manhood-empowered-by-the-light-of/id1584970534?i=1000603237979
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
What's the difference between a Christian man, and a man of God? Unfortunately many of us, as men, take the path of least resistance and settle with being "Christian men." When it comes to our marriages, family, and work, too many of us have taken the path of least resistance and become complacent.Jarrett Samuels shares his fencepost story about how God called him to more. He describes his journey that led him to brush the Cheeto dust away and get off the couch in order to make a difference for the kingdom of God.
Jarrett Samuels is a husband, father of 3, Pastor, mentor and creator of The Pursuit of Manliness community and podcast. His passion is to equip and challenge men to raise the standard of what it means to be a man of God.
RESOURCESThe Pursuit of Manliness Website
The Pursuit of Manliness PodcastMEN'S WEEKEND DETAILS:Empowered Manhood Men's Weekend (https://www.empoweredmanhood.com/event-details/empowered-manhood-mens-weekend)
ISRAEL EXPERIENCE:
Empowered Manhood Israel Experience (https://registernow.ittworld.com/)
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
Listen to the introduction and first chapter of Mike's book:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/special-edition-manhood-empowered-by-the-light-of/id1584970534?i=1000603237979
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
What's the difference between a Christian man, and a man of God? Unfortunately many of us, as men, take the path of least resistance and settle with being "Christian men." When it comes to our marriages, family, and work, too many of us have taken the path of least resistance and become complacent.Jarrett Samuels shares his fencepost story about how God called him to more. He describes his journey that led him to brush the Cheeto dust away and get off the couch in order to make a difference for the kingdom of God.
Jarrett Samuels is a husband, father of 3, Pastor, mentor and creator of The Pursuit of Manliness community and podcast. His passion is to equip and challenge men to raise the standard of what it means to be a man of God.
RESOURCESThe Pursuit of Manliness Website
The Pursuit of Manliness PodcastMEN'S WEEKEND DETAILS:Empowered Manhood Men's Weekend (https://www.empoweredmanhood.com/event-details/empowered-manhood-mens-weekend)
ISRAEL EXPERIENCE:
Empowered Manhood Israel Experience (https://registernow.ittworld.com/)
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
Listen to the introduction and first chapter of Mike's book:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/special-edition-manhood-empowered-by-the-light-of/id1584970534?i=1000603237979
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
If you're struggling to find motivation to answer God's call on your life, you are in for some encouragement from today's interview with Kent Chevalier, Chaplain of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
In his usual, passionate communication style, Kent shares the inspiring story of how God called he and his wife to be missionaries. He also reveals amazing, biblical insight into where men find the strength to "do it afraid." You'll be moved by Kent's vulnerability and reminded of God's faithfulness.
KENT CHEVALIER'S BIO:
After serving for 22 years as a pastor in the local church, Pastor Kent (PK) stepped out in 2019 to become the Chaplain of the Pittsburgh Steelers through the ministry of Athletes in Action. He is a Pittsburgh native, a graduate of Geneva College and Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. Kent also partners with Lionshare as a national speaker and Vice President of their board. He loves serving and encouraging individuals, businesses and ministries with Erica as a part of this new ministry adventure, Team Chevalier. He values most being a husband to Erica and a dad to their three daughters.
TIMECODES:
SHOW NOTES:
The issue of race can be a very controversial issue these days, mainly because of polarizing political propaganda. It can be even more challenging in the church.
So, how is God calling us, as men, to lead and engage with this divisive cultural issue?
Today, we're spending some time with David Bowens, a Worship Leader at Orchard Hill Church. David shares about his experience as a black man in a predominantly white church, and what it was like addressing the issue of race during the tumultuous events surrounding George Floyd.
We also discuss how we, as men, should lead and engage with people who are different than us, especially in our church, as we reflect the love of God. Lastly, we talk through some ways that the gospel brings unity among diversity and how this reflects the kingdom of God.
RESOURCES:Contact David Bowens: davidjbowens@gmail.comContact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
Listen to the introduction and first chapter of Mike's book:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/special-edition-manhood-empowered-by-the-light-of/id1584970534?i=1000603237979
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
The issue of race can be a very controversial issue these days, mainly because of polarizing political propaganda. It can be even more challenging in the church.
So, how is God calling us, as men, to lead and engage with this divisive cultural issue?
Today, we're spending some time with David Bowens, a Worship Leader at Orchard Hill Church. David shares about his experience as a black man in a predominantly white church, and what it was like addressing the issue of race during the tumultuous events surrounding George Floyd.
We also discuss how we, as men, should lead and engage with people who are different than us, especially in our church, as we reflect the love of God. Lastly, we talk through some ways that the gospel brings unity among diversity and how this reflects the kingdom of God.
RESOURCES:Contact David Bowens: davidjbowens@gmail.comContact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
Listen to the introduction and first chapter of Mike's book:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/special-edition-manhood-empowered-by-the-light-of/id1584970534?i=1000603237979
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
The issue of race can be a very controversial issue these days, mainly because of polarizing political propaganda. It can be even more challenging in the church.
So, how is God calling us, as men, to lead and engage with this divisive cultural issue?
Today, we're spending some time with David Bowens, a Worship Leader at Orchard Hill Church. David shares about his experience as a black man in a predominantly white church, and what it was like addressing the issue of race during the tumultuous events surrounding George Floyd.
We also discuss how we, as men, should lead and engage with people who are different than us, especially in our church, as we reflect the love of God. Lastly, we talk through some ways that the gospel brings unity among diversity and how this reflects the kingdom of God.
RESOURCES:Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
Listen to the introduction and first chapter of Mike's book:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/special-edition-manhood-empowered-by-the-light-of/id1584970534?i=1000603237979
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
Can God use you if you've been broken? God did just that in Cliff Barna's life. A former college standout and professional arena football player, God put all sorts of people in Cliff's life along the way in key moments to humble him and use him for His kingdom purposes.
Cliff Barna was raised in Ocala, FL and came to Tennessee as a student and athlete at Bethel University, where he ultimately earned a Master’s in Education and was inducted into the Athletics Hall of Fame.
After playing professional arena football, Barna was an assistant football coach at Bethel University. Additionally, he was the Senior Pastor at Tusculum Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Nashville, TN.
Currently Cliff teaches economics at Liberty Creek High School in Nashville, where he also coaches football and wrestling.
RESOURCES:
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
How does God remove the idols from our lives? For Cliff Barna, a former college standout and professional arena football player, football was his idol. In his fencepost story, Cliff tells the story about how God miraculously removed the idol of football from his life.
Cliff Barna was raised in Ocala, FL and came to Tennessee as a student and athlete at Bethel University, where he ultimately earned a Master’s in Education and was inducted into the Athletics Hall of Fame.
After playing professional arena football, Barna was an assistant football coach at Bethel University. Additionally, he was the Senior Pastor at Tusculum Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Nashville, TN.
Currently Cliff teaches economics at Liberty Creek High School in Nashville, where he also coaches football and wrestling.
RESOURCES:
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
As we remember the cross on this Good Friday, this is my reminder to us, men. The Empowered Man is the man who reflects Jesus' self-sacrificial nature.
In a world where everyone is decrying the infringement on our "rights," we need more men who are willing to embrace the upside-down values of God's kingdom.
RESOURCES:
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Listen to the introduction and first chapter of Mike's book:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/special-edition-manhood-empowered-by-the-light-of/id1584970534?i=1000603237979
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
Author and speaker, Jeremy Shelton, joins us to talk about the paralyzing effect pornography has on men. There are a lot of books on the issue of pornography but Jeremy takes a unique approach in his book, "Unmuzzled: Escaping Sexual Sin - Satan's Grip on Men."
We consider what it looks like to be a "muzzled man," disempowered by lust and controlled by Satan. This imagery will leave an indelible mark on your mind as you engage in your own battle, or help other men to free themselves from porn's insidious grip.
RESOURCES:
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Order Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Listen to the introduction and first chapter of Mike's book:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/special-edition-manhood-empowered-by-the-light-of/id1584970534?i=1000603237979
Join the Empowered Manhood Facebook Group
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
How are you sleeping these days? Sleep is a critical component to everything else we do in life, especially in our relationship with God. Yet, so many of us compromise our sleep for what we think will be greater productivity.
Our guest today, Caleb Spitler, helps corporate executives and their teams maximize their productivity through rest and recovery.
After receiving coaching from some of the top recovery experts in the world, and personal experimentation, Caleb has been able to transform his life and dramatically increase his productivity.
As both a former athlete and award-winning sales professional, he learned that the highest performers in any industry have elite strategies for recovery.
Caleb is also a Christian and has developed a theology of rest and recovery that we men would do well to adopt in our own lives.
RESOURCES:
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Preorder Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Listen to the introduction and first chapter of Mike's book:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/special-edition-manhood-empowered-by-the-light-of/id1584970534?i=1000603237979
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
How are you sleeping these days? Sleep is a critical component to everything else we do in life, especially in our relationship with God. Yet, so many of us compromise our sleep for what we think will be greater productivity.
Our guest today, Caleb Spitler, helps corporate executives and their teams maximize their productivity through rest and recovery.
After receiving coaching from some of the top recovery experts in the world, and personal experimentation, Caleb has been able to transform his life and dramatically increase his productivity.
As both a former athlete and award-winning sales professional, he learned that the highest performers in any industry have elite strategies for recovery.
Caleb is also a Christian and has developed a theology of rest and recovery that we men would do well to adopt in our own lives.
RESOURCES:
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Preorder Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Listen to the introduction and first chapter of Mike's book:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/special-edition-manhood-empowered-by-the-light-of/id1584970534?i=1000603237979
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
The most critical thing we can do for our marriage is submitting to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. Author and Speaker, Eric Wooten, Co-Founder of AlteredMarriage.com, helps us understand practically how to do this in today's episode.
God called Eric and his wife, Jill, to start a marriage ministry called Altared Marriage where they provide couples with a proven path to build a thriving marriage.
Eric is a dynamic speaker, author, and relationship expert. He holds a Master’s of Marriage & Family Counseling from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and is a Licensed Professional Counselor.
Eric is passionate about relationships and has been working with couples for more than a decade. He is the author of The Magnetic Marriage: 8 Characteristics of Irresistible Marriages, and is committed to creating resources that will help couples prepare for and strengthen their marriages.
RESOURCES:
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Preorder Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Listen to the introduction and first chapter of Mike's book:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/special-edition-manhood-empowered-by-the-light-of/id1584970534?i=1000603237979
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
Are you intentional about keeping your marriage plugged into community? Our guest today, Eric Wooten, has a great fencepost story about the role community played in saving his own marriage.
God called Eric and his wife, Jill, to start a marriage ministry called Altared Marriage where they provide couples with a proven path to build a thriving marriage.
Eric is a dynamic speaker, author, and relationship expert. He holds a Master’s of Marriage & Family Counseling from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and is a Licensed Professional Counselor.
Eric is passionate about relationships and has been working with couples for more than a decade. He is the author of The Magnetic Marriage: 8 Characteristics of Irresistible Marriages, and is committed to creating resources that will help couples prepare for and strengthen their marriages.
RESOURCES:
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Preorder Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Listen to the introduction and first chapter of Mike's book:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/special-edition-manhood-empowered-by-the-light-of/id1584970534?i=1000603237979
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
Most men today are disempowered. Lost and groping in the dark, they are driven by fear and insecurity. Isolation and loneliness have defined us as a generation, and the tragic result has been dysfunctional marriage, broken families, and a society with no mooring to truth. Addictions to pornography, alcohol, drugs, and gaming have enslaved men and stolen our confidence.
As a recovering pornography addict himself, Pastor Mike Hatch is well acquainted with feelings of disempowerment and hopelessness. Whether you are battling addiction, infidelity, or a crisis of purpose or identity, you will find this book to be accessible, readable, and highly actionable, built for you to make progress quickly and intentionally.
The empowered man does not just know about God but is known by him; he understands God as the source of power for character improvement; and he transcends his own agenda to be a powerful tool in the hand of God.
Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel focuses on these three principles to provide guidance, encouragement, and resources for Christian men who are struggling with fear and insecurity.
You'll learn how being Known by God, Grown by God, and Owned by God provides the contentment to accept all circumstances of life, the clarity to embrace your transcendent and redemptive purpose, and the freedom to live courageously once again.
RESOURCES:
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Preorder Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
Life is hard. As much as we want to live hope-filled lives, these difficulties often keep us stuck in place while the world around us falls apart. We want to move forward, but we just don’t know how.
But moving forward really isn’t that complicated. It is the process of putting one foot in front of the other, one day at a time. It is understanding that as bad as things seem right now, the alternative to pushing forward is death. Not physical death. But relational, emotional, or spiritual.
Our guest today, Jeremy Stalnecker, Author of the book, "March or Die: Moving Forward When Your World Seems Out of Control," uses his own harrowing experiences of war to help us understand how to move forward when we don’t know what to do.
There is hope even in the most hopeless situation for those that are willing to March when it would be easier to Die! It’s time to stop looking back, stop making excuses and stop allowing yourself to remain stuck. It’s time to take the next step!
Resources Mentioned:
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Preorder Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
Life is hard. As much as we want to live hope-filled lives, these difficulties often keep us stuck in place while the world around us falls apart. We want to move forward, but we just don’t know how.
But moving forward really isn’t that complicated. It is the process of putting one foot in front of the other, one day at a time. It is understanding that as bad as things seem right now, the alternative to pushing forward is death. Not physical death. But relational, emotional, or spiritual.
Our guest today, Jeremy Stalnecker, Author of the book, "March or Die: Moving Forward When Your World Seems Out of Control," uses his own harrowing experiences of war to help us understand how to move forward when we don’t know what to do.
There is hope even in the most hopeless situation for those that are willing to March when it would be easier to Die! It’s time to stop looking back, stop making excuses and stop allowing yourself to remain stuck. It’s time to take the next step!
Resources Mentioned:
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Preorder Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
Stacey is a Master's Christian Counselor, Men's Coach, Multi-family Real Estate Investor, Podcaster, Author, & Course Creator. But most importantly, he is a Beloved Son of God, Husband, and Father. He has worked with many clients, including couples, overcome depression, anxiety, trauma, identity issues, anger, addictions, resentment and many more struggles that plague the world, but now he's heard his calling to help take Christian men to the next level!
Resources Mentioned:
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Preorder Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
Stacey is a Master's Christian Counselor, Men's Coach, Multi-family Real Estate Investor, Podcaster, Author, & Course Creator. But most importantly, he is a Beloved Son of God, Husband, and Father. He has worked with many clients, including couples, overcome depression, anxiety, trauma, identity issues, anger, addictions, resentment and many more struggles that plague the world, but now he's heard his calling to help take Christian men to the next level!
Resources Mentioned:
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Preorder Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
God is doing supernatural work by turning the hearts of fathers to children and the hearts of children to the Father God. Knowing that it is their job and that they are called and equipped to do so, Ben Myers, Co-Founder of ActorsBible,believes dads will begin to dramatically and consistently lead their family worship of God around His word to effectively make obedient disciples of Jesus Christ. First in the home and then beyond.
ActorsBible is a powerful app that provides everything needed to make disciples and foster a love for the Word of God. By enacting the Bible, families and groups bring the stories in scripture to life for all ages.
Benjamin and Felicita Myers, parents of six, are passionate about raising up their children in the Lord all the while encouraging dads and moms to do the same. They founded Inner-City Movement/Theatre 7000 located in Upper Darby, PA. There they combine this passion for discipleship with the arts and have created a unique, immersive space where youth and their families participate in dramatizing the scriptures.
They have created the world's first 360˚ projection dome for live theatre, with moving seats, wind, mist, bubbles and flying actors. They, along with a team of incredible people, produce professional level productions using ActorsBible that feature the youth and their families as an outreach to the Greater Philadelphia region.
Resources Mentioned:
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Preorder Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
God is doing supernatural work by turning the hearts of fathers to children and the hearts of children to the Father God. Knowing that it is their job and that they are called and equipped to do so, Ben Myers, Co-Founder of ActorsBible,believes dads will begin to dramatically and consistently lead their family worship of God around His word to effectively make obedient disciples of Jesus Christ. First in the home and then beyond.
ActorsBible is a powerful app that provides everything needed to make disciples and foster a love for the Word of God. By enacting the Bible, families and groups bring the stories in scripture to life for all ages.
Benjamin and Felicita Myers, parents of six, are passionate about raising up their children in the Lord all the while encouraging dads and moms to do the same. They founded Inner-City Movement/Theatre 7000 located in Upper Darby, PA. There they combine this passion for discipleship with the arts and have created a unique, immersive space where youth and their families participate in dramatizing the scriptures.
They have created the world's first 360˚ projection dome for live theatre, with moving seats, wind, mist, bubbles and flying actors. They, along with a team of incredible people, produce professional level productions using ActorsBible that feature the youth and their families as an outreach to the Greater Philadelphia region.
Resources Mentioned:
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Preorder Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
Jason is a serial entrepreneur who has created and grown numerous companies including GiftCards.com, PerfectGift.com, Gift Card Granny, GiftYa, Direct Response Technologies and MyCoupons.com.
Jason spends time building and advising businesses, enjoying the outdoors, and spending time with his family in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He is passionate about helping others, especially children. He supports Family Design Resources, a program that works with private and public agencies to support child welfare.
Resources Mentioned:
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Preorder Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
Jason is a serial entrepreneur who has created and grown numerous companies including GiftCards.com, PerfectGift.com, Gift Card Granny, GiftYa, Direct Response Technologies and MyCoupons.com.
Jason spends time building and advising businesses, enjoying the outdoors, and spending time with his family in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He is passionate about helping others, especially children. He supports Family Design Resources, a program that works with private and public agencies to support child welfare.
Resources Mentioned:
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Preorder Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
Today’s concept of biblical rest… isn’t working. Our numerous discussions about “which day” and “how” the seventh-day sabbath should be observed have distracted, confused, and caused apathy within an entire generation of believers. But biblical rest is dramatically different than most suppose.
Our guest today, Gregory D. Hall, DMin, is the author of the book, Rethinking Rest: Why Our Approach to Sabbath Isn't Working. Greg is husband to his high-school sweetheart and father of two “twenty-something” young men. He's been an adjunct Bible professor at George Fox University, Corban University, and Reach Training Institute.
Resources Mentioned:
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Preorder Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
Today’s concept of biblical rest… isn’t working. Our numerous discussions about “which day” and “how” the seventh-day sabbath should be observed have distracted, confused, and caused apathy within an entire generation of believers. But biblical rest is dramatically different than most suppose.
Our guest today, Gregory D. Hall, DMin, is the author of the book, Rethinking Rest: Why Our Approach to Sabbath Isn't Working. Greg is husband to his high-school sweetheart and father of two “twenty-something” young men. He's been an adjunct Bible professor at George Fox University, Corban University, and Reach Training Institute.
Resources Mentioned:
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Preorder Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
Today’s concept of biblical rest… isn’t working. Our numerous discussions about “which day” and “how” the seventh-day sabbath should be observed have distracted, confused, and caused apathy within an entire generation of believers. But biblical rest is dramatically different than most suppose.
Our guest today, Gregory D. Hall, DMin, is the author of the book, Rethinking Rest: Why Our Approach to Sabbath Isn't Working. Greg is husband to his high-school sweetheart and father of two “twenty-something” young men. He's been an adjunct Bible professor at George Fox University, Corban University, and Reach Training Institute.
Resources Mentioned:
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Preorder Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
Rob Kowalski's ministry, CityFam, is having a tremendous affect on churches around the country through what he calls the "Go Method." When applied, this method doubled his own church's weekly attendance.
ROB'S BACKGROUND
Raised by a 15 yr old mother, Rob's childhood was one of poverty and lack. With no strong male role model in the picture, he taught himself how to “be a man”, and eventually became the most sought after male stripper in his hometown of Baltimore.
At 25, he became a nightclub promoter and took over the nightlife in Charm City. His life looked like something out of a movie- full of sex, drugs, and alcohol. He was the man in charge. Life of the party.
But, he was empty. Lost. With severe addictions.
Then…he had a radical life-changing encounter with Jesus that transformed him forever.
God turned his mess into his message.
Now, Rob is considered the #1 authority on sex, waiting for the right person, and overcoming loneliness in life.
Resources Mentioned:
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Preorder Mike's book, Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
REFORMED BAD BOY. JESUS LOVER. SEX & ABSTINENCE EXPERT.
Raised by a 15 yr old mother, Rob's childhood was one of poverty and lack. With no strong male role model in the picture, he taught himself how to “be a man”, and eventually became the most sought after male stripper in his hometown of Baltimore.
At 25, he became a nightclub promoter and took over the nightlife in Charm City. His life looked like something out of a movie- full of sex, drugs, and alcohol. He was the man in charge. Life of the party.
But, he was empty. Lost. With severe addictions.
Then…he had a radical life-changing encounter with Jesus that transformed him forever.
God turned his mess into his message.
Now, Rob is considered the #1 authority on sex, waiting for the right person, and overcoming loneliness in life.
Resources Mentioned:
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
Pastor Jared Ellis speaks with us about how he "rebranded" his church to be a church specifically designed for men. It is an amazing story. Jared also shares with us his fence post story of how God led him, a reluctant pastor, into ministry by helping him find his unique contribution to the kingdom.
Jared is the preaching minister at Fellowship Regional Church in Iola, KS. He is also the host of a long-form interview podcast show called The Homilist, which explores the various aspects of preaching.
This is part 2 of our interview with Jared where he explains what the "brass knuckles" on their church's crest is all about. Jared also goes into further detail about how his church has been designed for men...and why many more women are now following them there.
Resources Mentioned:
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
Pastor Jared Ellis speaks with us about how he "rebranded" his church to be a church specifically designed for men. It is an amazing story. Jared also shares with us his fence post story of how God led him, a reluctant pastor, into ministry by helping him find his unique contribution to the kingdom.
Jared is the preaching minister at Fellowship Regional Church in Iola, KS. He is also the host of a long-form interview podcast show called The Homilist, which explores the various aspects of preaching.
This is part 1 of our interview with Jared, stay tuned for part 2 next week, where he tells us what the "brass knuckles" on their church's crest is all about. Jared also goes into further detail about how his church is designed for men.
Resources Mentioned:
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Chris' Devotionals:
For children to be apprentices of Jesus, the way we use technology cannot continue. The amount, and the way technology is used today, where tech addiction is on the rise, we are robbing our children to learn self-control, empathy, goodness, and kindness.
Technology preys on certain parts of the brain, especially at a young age, that does not allow them to develop the relational devices required for true heart connection with their families and peers.
There is a growing disconnect between children and God, which is why we have welcomed back Daniel Sih to shed some light on how to bring our children back to themselves, their humanity, and God.
Daniel is a productivity consultant, professional speaker and award-winning author. He is passionate about changing the way we interact with the digital world in life and work. Daniel has recently published a book called, Raising Tech-Healthy Humans: How to reset your children's tech-habits and give them a great start to life, in hopes to raising awareness around how our children’s tech habits are taking away a piece of their humanity, and how to get it back
Today’s episode is full of practical knowledge from Daniel’s latest book, explaining why technology is affecting children, as well as adults, the lasting repercussions of too much tech use, how to limit screen time after having allowed too much, and tips on what kind of tech use is beneficial and what isn’t.
Tune in to hear advice and to learn how you can change the way you and your children use technology so you can get back to the simple things, and God.
TOPICS DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Men's Devotional: Daily Strength for Men: A 365-Day Devotional
According to Michael Batenburg, founder of Back2Basics Adventures, there are five stages for those in their faith development: clueless, curious, committed, convicted, discipling. This last stage, discipleship, is the ultimate path to building a strong foundation for your faith so that you can help others grow in their own.
God created man from the ground, therefore it’s no surprise that many men feel a deep inner connection to the wilderness. That’s one reason Michael Batenburg is giving others a beautiful, comfortable environment to connect and be vulnerable through his outdoor ministry adventures.
Back2Basics Adventures takes people on adventures all around the world, but they recently finished constructing a permanent location in Tennessee called Feather Ridge. Michael details all the amazing features of this new location, including its scenic surroundings and activities.
Everyone gets busy with life’s distractions, but sometimes all you need is a break to enjoy the beauty of God’s creation. So, tune in to learn how nature and outdoor adventure can uplift you in your faith journey!
TOPICS DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Jesus Calling: Enjoy Peace in His Presence by Sarah Young
The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry: How to Stay Emotionally Healthy and Spiritually Alive in the Chaos of the Modern World by John Comer
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Men's Devotional: Daily Strength for Men: A 365-Day Devotional
Whether it’s in business or through ministry, building relationships is key to finding success and fulfillment in life. Failures are inevitable, but being open with others about your experiences and showing vulnerability will actually take you down a path of greater connectedness.
Discussing his perspective on life and discipleship is Alex Giannetti, realtor agent and self-proclaimed introvert who’s forging connections through his work as President of Christian Business Partners. Today, you’ll hear his journey of faith and learning from his mistakes.
Alex is sharing his HANGS method of getting to know people, and how this has helped him grow Christian Business Partners, even during a life-changing pandemic. He also tells inspiring stories of resilience and faith in God’s plan, as well as the power of living altruistically.
Are you ready to find empowerment through the Holy Spirit? If yes, this episode is a must-listen!
TOPICS DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE
● The story of how Alex came to Christ
● Alex on meeting his wife and enjoying church
● Getting involved in real estate and the market crash
● Merging career with his faith through Christian Business Partners
● The pandemic’s effect and taking over the ministry
● What drew Alex to Christian Business Partners
● Building connections with people through the Holy Spirit
● How Alex and his wife recovered financially and became debt-free
● Alex details his HANGS method
● Mike gives a closing prayer
Connect with Alex Giannetti:
Website
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Men's Devotional: Daily Strength for Men: A 365-Day Devotional
One of life’s greatest challenges and gifts is parenthood. Not only do we feel the pressure of getting our children to succeed and become a good person, but you also have the responsibility of leading them into a life of faith.
On the podcast today to share his story of surrendering completely to God and creating a family of soft hearts and change makers is Don Manning. He and wife Suzanne founded their ministry, Crazy Cool Family, with a mission to connect family relationships to each other and Jesus.
Don talks about the major lessons he’s learned from being a father and husband, giving him the ability to instill the right values in their children. For instance, the Bible, his wife and their contrasting approaches to relationships and parenting have helped him become a more compassionate and encouraging father.
Have you ever felt insecure about how you’re leading your family? Or wrestled intellectually with your faith? If yes, then this episode is a must-listen!
TOPICS DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE
If this episode inspired you, get your FREE Crazy Cool Family Membership here: https://basecamp.crazycoolfamily.com
You’ll gain access to all their content, including 10 Core Courses of short videos that take you through how to create a vision for your family
To learn more about the Mannings and their ministry, check out the Crazy Cool Familybook and podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!
Stay connected with Crazy Cool Family:
Website
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Men's Devotional: Daily Strength for Men: A 365-Day Devotional
Simply preaching and sharing your own story, no matter how powerful, is often not enough to make someone a believer of Christ. Living in the strength and truth of your faith gives you a platform to share your story with others, but HOW you do so is of equal importance to your message.
Through his ministry, today’s guest, speaker and author Doug Pollock, has learned a lot about how to have meaningful God conversations with people around the world. On this episode of Empowered Manhood, he recalls all the lessons he’s learned on his journey, and experience being a chaplain and Director of Evangelism at Athletes in Action.
Doug’s own discussions with authentic men around him were pivotal moments that inspired him to do the same, through his own self-awareness and the Holy Spirit's guidance. He knows that to be heard, you must also be willing to listen, and this has helped him develop an ease in starting a dialogue with non-believers.
Man has the responsibility to converse about their faith, but building trust and safety is key to successful ministry. Tune in to hear how to open a God space to engage in a significant way!
TOPICS DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE
For more information on Doug and his ministry work, head to his website here and check out his books, Irresistible Evangelism and God Space: Where Spiritual Conversations Happen Naturally.
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Men's Devotional: Daily Strength for Men: A 365-Day Devotional
Despite all your efforts and your Christian faith, did your marriage end in divorce?
Our guest today, Marcus Farris, was a man of faith who entered the marriage covenant with every intention of upholding it. When it ended in divorce, he experienced a profound grief that left him with questions. These very questions have led him to a deeper faith that can help you, too.
In this interview Marcus shares:
What you have lost is devastating, but it isn’t the end of your walk with God.
Let Marcus show you how to heal from divorce.
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
1 Corinthians 13:11 says, “When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me.” As you think about yourself in this context, are you a man? Or a boy?
To unpack this, we are joined by Kyle Stark, a coach, leader, consultant, and the President of Stark Contrast. Previously, Kyle served as the Assistant General Manager for the Pittsburgh Pirates, where he implemented an unusual development philosophy that involved having the Bucs' prospects train with Navy SEALS.
This raised a few eyebrows at the time, and today, Kyle offers some insight into the reasoning behind his approach, which centers on truth and personal development rather than sticking to tradition.
One of the key elements of our conversation with Kyle is our identity as men. Where do we find our identity? What roles do discipline, accountability, leadership, and empathy play as we transition from boyhood to manhood?
Ultimately, Kyle believes that nearly every problem we face can be traced back to leadership, which is why he has made it his mission to help good leaders drive great cultures.
Join us to learn more about his belief that people buy into the man before they buy into the mission, how you can locate your identity in Christ, and so much more!
Topics discussed in this episode:
● How God (and baseball) molded Kyle into the man he is today
● The holistic development mindset he brought to Minor League Baseball
● The value of pursuing truth over tradition
● How the young men Kyle worked with influenced his coaching philosophy
● Nurturing not just baseball skills, but life skills
● Centering your identity on who you are, not what you do
● True leadership versus positional authority
● Committing to discipline (which is less sexy than inspiration!)
● Finding your identity in Christ
● How Kyle received buy-in for his unusual development philosophy
● Overcoming the tendency to defend your actions and resist change
● Understanding that people buy into the man before the mission
● Why you can’t conflate confidence with certainty, integrity with character
● The role of sacrifice in building trust with others
● Lessons about excellence from Tim Elmore’s SCENE acronym
● How Kyle strives to help men who are called to lead
Connect with Kyle on LinkedIn.
Resources mentioned:
Love Does by Bob Goff
Integrity by Henry Cloud
Tim Elmore
CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Mike Hatch: mhatch@clchq.org
Contact Chris Bolinger: https://chrisbolinger.com/author/
Men's Devotional: "Daily Strength for Men" (https://www.amazon.com/Daily-Strength-Men-365-Day-Devotional-ebook/dp/B07N9P7DRD)
Our guest today, Torres McLean, shares about how living by the "man code" nearly destroyed his marriage. After coming clean about two marital affairs, Torres explains how God put his marriage back together and freed him from sexual sin. In his new book, "Man Code: Breaking Free from Sexual Sin to Become the Man God Called You to Be," which we discuss in today's interview, Torres recounts this painful but hopeful story.
Torres McLean is the co-founder of The Hope Ambassadors, a ministry that equips Christians with the spiritual and practical tools to address the challenges keeping them from walking in their purpose so they can impact and serve others. When he is not helping fellow believers discover a life of purpose and intention, he's home in Detroit, MI with his wife Kelley and their 4 children.
SHOW NOTES:
Kevin Harris, President of Radical Mentoring, speaks with us about the power of masculine vulnerability and what happens when men finally let their guard down. Transformation must be preceded by transparency.
As President of Radical Mentoring, Kevin Harris sets the vision and strategy. He also serves as an evangelist to new audiences and an invaluable resource to churches who have incorporated small group mentoring into their disciple-making strategy.
SHOW NOTES:
God is moving in the hearts of men in the Hispanic community around the world. We talk with Pedro Martinez, National Hispanic Director for CLC, who is riding this wave of the Holy Spirit. Pedro discusses God's unique call on his life to serve men at just such a time as this.
We get to know Pedro and discuss the significance of CLC's newest curriculum, Volverse Real, as an amazing discipleship tool for Spanish speaking men globally.
SHOW NOTES:
Every Christian man has a lion within, and is predestined to be a spiritual leader at home, in the community, and at church. However, the lions in many men have been silenced because of a lack of faith in God.
Our guest today, Chris Grainger, Founder of The Lion Within Us, wants to inspire and encourage men to be the spiritual leaders they are called to be. We discuss the role tragedy and trial played in his life to refine him and make him the man he is today. We also discuss how men can traverse difficult storms in life in a way that increases their capacity for leadership.
SHOW NOTES:
How do you know that the events recorded in the bible really happened? Many people today doubt the credibility of the bible. Our guest today, Dr. John DeLancey, has led nearly 80 trips to Israel and participated in multiple archeological digs that have bolstered his own faith, as well as those he's led on tours.
We discuss the physical land of the bible, and how seeing it first-hand leads to a much deeper understanding of the stories in the bible. We also hear about John's newest book, "Connecting the Dots: Between the Bible and the Land of Israel."
Dr. DeLancey Served as lead pastor for 26 years in two evangelical churches – Stoneridge Covenant Church, Allison Park, PA and Calvary Covenant Church, Evansville, MN. Tour Leader of 79 Israel Tours. Numerous of these trips included both Jordan & Egypt. Adjunct professor/teacher at the Solid Rock School of Discipleship/College (2016-2019) and the International Theological College & Seminary in Phnom Penh, Cambodia (2019), John is a sought after speaker. He is the author of two books, “Devotional Treasures from the Holyland“ and "Connecting the Dots: Between the Bible and the Land of Israel."
SHOW NOTES:
Dr. Dan Nahrwold had heard of CLC's life-changing "All In" discipleship curriculum but experiencing it for himself surpassed all his expectations. Dan shares about how God planted seeds in his life several years earlier, and how those seeds led to eventually starting his own "All In" group after moving to Tampa, FL. We spend some time discussing the significance of relationships in men's discipleship and how that accountability impacts our approach to work and our careers.
Dr. Daniel Nahrwold is an Assistant Member in the Moffitt Cancer Center Department of Anesthesiology. Dr. Nahrwold earned his MD at the Indiana University School of Medicine. He then completed an Anesthesiology Residency at Vanderbilt University Medical Center followed by a Critical Care Medicine Fellowship at the University of California, San Francisco. Dr. Nahrwold’s clinical interests are in acute pain management, ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia, biomedical informatics, and critical care medicine. His research interests are in advancing technology and anesthetic techniques to improve perioperative quality outcomes.
SHOW NOTES:
What does it look like for God to forge a man? Contrary to popular belief in our American culture, God is not as interested in our comfort, or the things we think we're entitled to. Cartwright Morris, podcaster and certified coach, helps us understand how to let go of your agenda and allow God to shape your faith through struggle and uncertainty.
Cartwright Morris is a podcaster, certified coach, and a thought leader for men wanting to discover and define their life's purpose. He has worked with hundreds of emerging leaders in the US and abroad. He has spent over 10 years managing and developing young leaders at organizations like The Center For Executive Leadership, JH Ranch, and Heaven in Business in California. He is a growing thought leader and expert in how to grow men to thrive in culture, career, and personal leadership.
SHOW NOTES:
The last thing Tyler Moon remembers from his first 10 mile race is greeting his family and kissing his wife around mile 1. At mile 8 he suffered a cardiac arrest, and that was when God took control of Tyler's plan. You will be inspired by how God demonstrated His faithfulness through Tyler's story.
Often, as men, we want nothing more than to be in control. Tyler's story is a testimony of the fact that no matter what we plan, God is still sovereign. We fit into His narrative, not the other way around.
SPONSOR: BIBLICAL WEALTH SOLUTIONS
SHOW NOTES:
We sat down with Adam Jones, a former Army Blackhawk Pilot and Company Commander, to talk about what it takes to become a "Kingdom Operative," a man who has command presence, situational awareness, and mission readiness.
Adam has dedicated himself to helping you discover the power in your presence and lead your family with contagious confidence. Make sure you have a pen and paper or notepad ready. During this interview you're going to want to pause, reflect, and write some things down.
SHOW NOTES:
Amid the recent Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe vs. Wade there has been a great deal of tumult. Many are celebrating and many others are very angry. Amid all this there are the individuals, both men and women, who are being reminded of the trauma they experienced as a result of an abortion.
How, as men, should we be responding?
Our guest today, Greg Hasek MA/MFT, helps us think through not only the consequences of the Roe vs. Wade decision from a big picture perspective, but also the very personal experiences of people who've been traumatized on both sides of the issue. We focus mostly on the trauma men experience and how we can come alongside these guys to be an encouragement and support wherever they are in the decision process.
SHOW NOTES:
CLC President, Dr. Craig Fry, sits down with Better Man Event Founder, Brian Buckley, and Better Man Event MC, Obie Diaz. They discuss how CLC and the Better Man event are partnering to impact hundreds of thousands of men around the globe.
In addition, Craig shares his heart about how to build your own band of brothers by starting a CLC group. CLC is the official discipleship partner of Better Man 365. You can join us in making a difference in the lives of men by leveraging the Better Man Event to start your own CLC discipleship group.
SHOW NOTES:
Pastor Travis Edgar gave up on getting men to attend the discipleship events at his church. Instead, he left his church to go find the men. Finding them doing things men do, Travis began to build relationships with them on their turf, in places where they spend most of their time.
In the process of searching for these men he found much more than he bargained for!
In this missional approach, Travis embodies the mission of the Free Methodist Church, which is to make known to all people everywhere God’s call to wholeness through forgiveness and holiness in Jesus Christ, and to invite into membership and to equip for ministry all who respond in faith.
Cove Run’s central theme is “Reorientation, Renewal, and Revival.” We cannot plan revival, but we can teach the foundational truths of God’s Word to ignite the fire of renewal in the individual heart, which will spark corporate revival!
SHOW NOTES:
Often, as men, we are blind to what God is up to behind the scenes. We can be so practical and results-oriented that we miss the fact that God is active in ways we can't perceive or measure.
Leigh Gerstenberger is always on mission. However, like most men, he doesn't always realize it. "Business-stry" is his word to describe what happens when we, as Christians, engage in our normal business (whatever that might be) and all the while God has had another agenda that we're unaware of.
A western Pennsylvania native, Leigh Gerstenberger is the founding member of Strategic-Connecting, LLC, a consulting firm dedicated to “inspiring intriguing ideas” that help individuals and organizations exceed their career, financial and personal potential.
Prior to founding his own firm, Leigh spent his entire career in the financial services industry holding senior leadership positions at PNC Bank, Huntington Bank, Mutual of New York, and Connecticut Mutual Life Insurance Company.
Leigh serves on the boards of: Chris Led Communities (CLC); northeast Ohio based EMERGE Counseling Services, a 40-year old faith-based mental health organization; and SummaCare, the for-profit insurance subsidiary of the Akron, OH SummaHealth System.
SHOW NOTES:
Most men live day-to-day completely unaware of the masculine instincts at work within them. Understanding these instincts is a key to understanding our own masculine journey, and the purpose God has for us.
Pastor and Author, Chase Replogle, discusses his new book, "The 5 Masculine Instincts: A Guide to Becoming a Better Man." We couldn't have timed this interview better with Father's Day coming up this weekend! You'll gain so much perspective from our conversation with Chase and be inspired about your own masculine journey.
Chase is a bi-vocational pastor and holds a degree in Biblical Studies and an M.A. in New Testament. He hosts the weekly Pastor Writer Podcast (pastorwriter.com), interviewing pastors and authors on writing, reading, and the Christian Life. The site also chronicles Chase’s ongoing writing projects, attracting many new listeners and readers each month.
Chase is married to Ashley Replogle and has two children, William and Charlotte. Together they live in Ozark, MO.
A native of the Ozark woods, he enjoys being outdoors with his wife and two kids: sailing, playing the mandolin (badly), and quail hunting with his bird dog Millie.
Every decision you make, no matter how insignificant, will reap a harvest. What kind of harvest should you expect? Jason Alcott helps us better understand the steps between your purpose and the harvest. We discuss his new book, "The Sowing Principle," and how we as men can live more intentionally in order to reap an eternally significant harvest.
Jason Alcott is a writer born and raised just outside of Vancouver, BC. He studied business at Trinity Western University graduating with a Bachelor of Business Administration and currently works supporting a great operations team in the construction industry. He began writing his debut book, The Sowing Principle, after recognizing the role that sowing and reaping was playing in his life and the impact this understanding could have on others. When he is not writing, he can often be found with his wife trying to wrestle their toddlers into car seats to go and explore all the adventures waiting just outside their front door.
SHOW NOTES:
Dominic D. Dutra has dedicated his life to helping others. He has proudly served
his community as a two-term member of the Fremont City Council, his church in
various volunteer roles, and his alma mater (Santa Clara University) as an adjunct
faculty member.
As an educator, Dominic works to equip and cultivate excellent, virtuous business leaders, preparing them for the challenge of business in the 21st century. As the former President and CEO of Dutra Realty, Dominic seeks to leverage his business and real estate expertise to make our world better. Dominic founded 3D Strategies with this in mind – people matter more than profits.
3D Strategies 3D Strategies reflects Dominic’s life-long Christian values and his passion to serve organizations that make a real difference at the community level.
3D Strategies is committed to translating Dominic’s real estate expertise into community
flourishing by optimizing the underutilized and surplus property of non-profits
and public organizations. Dominic thrives in helping such organizations become
more fiscally sustainable, even as they become more effective in meeting their
long-term goals and accomplishing their respective missions.
Dominic has a BS and an MBA from Santa Clara University. He and his wife, Lisa,
have been married for 34 years and have raised two children — Gabriel and Tricia.
SHOW NOTES:
Patrick is a trained Ear, Nose & Throat surgeon and sleep specialist. He trained at Walter Reed Army Medical center and was on active duty with the US Army for 13 years. He left the Army in 2006 as a Lieutenant Colonel and started his private practice career.
Patrick did his undergraduate studies at Houston Baptist University and attended medical school at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. He was an Alpha Omega Alpha graduate. Patrick holds nearly thirty US and international patents.
Patrick has been involved in church ministry from positions as an elder and lay missions pastor. He is passionate about God’s mission to the ends of the earth. He’s been on numerous mission trips to: Guatemala, Indonesia, India, and Ukraine. Patrick is also a serial entrepreneur.
He first learned about Bitcoin in 2013 but made his first purchase in 2018 and has HODLd ever since. He’s written extensively about Bitcoin’s truths and the impact it has on believers and non-believers. His essays can be found on Medium ti67corvette. Patrick also hosts a weekly podcast: Mission Bitcoin wherein he interviews guests and discusses the intersection between Bitcoin and Christian faith.
SHOW NOTES:
Have you ever been stumped by a hard question about faith? These can be defining moments for people and, as men, we can feel a lot of pressure to have a good answer.
Our guest today, Dr. David Martin has been leading men's groups and discipling men for most of his life and he has been confronted with countless hard questions. He shares some great insight and perspective on how we can get more comfortable welcoming those hard questions. In the end, it is more about how you respond than what you respond with.
Dr. David Martin serves as a contractor for the United States Air Force at Osan Air Force Base in South Korea. When he's not on duty, David works with Air Force chaplains to facilitate men's discipleship groups for the military. He is also a prolific writer on Medium, and you can access his material through the link in the show notes.
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Reverend Dr. Ed Glover shares about the huge difference the Urban Impact Foundation is having in the lives of the fatherless and the widows in inner city Pittsburgh. We also discuss Urban Impact's 10th annual ManUp Conference on June 11.
Urban Impact partners with Pittsburgh Steeler's Head Coach, Mike Tomlin, to bring together thousands of men in Pittsburgh to help them maximize their impact in their home, neighborhood, and city. Keynote speakers, local pastors, and sports personalities challenge men to be the best godly leader they can be and raise awareness of the devastating impact of fatherlessness among youth today.
Ed and his wife, Tammy, founded Urban Impact in 1995 after moving into the neighborhood on the North Side of Pittsburgh. Ed is a leader, a visionary, an evangelist, and a motivational speaker who has had a tremendous impact in the city of Pittsburgh through Urban Impact for over 25 years.
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Jared Williams is one of the most courageous people we know because of the decision to listen to the Spirit's leading about his career in finance. You'll hear about his story, of course, then he'll walk us through why he chooses to focus on cash flow using biblical, non-Wall-Street investments.
He'll also share about a revolutionary concept called "compound cash flow." This absolutely blew my mind when I first heard about it.
Jared Williams is the Founder of Biblical Wealth Solutions and a leading expert on investing for cash flow using Biblical and non-Wall-Street investments. He has served hundreds of stewardship-minded Christians from around the world to protect their families, increase their cash flow, and take back control of their finances so that they can experience freedom to do all that God has uniquely called them to do.
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I hope you're ready to be inspired! Richard Buckley, Regional Vice President for Corporate Chaplains of America, sits down with us and shares amazing stories of God's redemptive impact in the marketplace.
Whether you own your own business or you are a valued employee, you won't look at the workplace the same again. Richard talks about how Corporate Chaplains of America are coming alongside businesses to care for their employees and promote healthy workplace cultures.
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We spoke to Stuart about his new book, "The Post Covid Church: An Action Plan to Thrive, Not Just Survive." This was such a relevant conversation, especially as it relates to how we, as men, engage in the church today. You hear some great perspective stemming from Stuart's extensive research, as well as some practical steps to help your church thrive.
Stuart Kellogg is a retired TV executive who now focuses on Christian ministries. A graduate of Syracuse University's Newhouse School of Public Communication and Wesley Biblical Seminary, Kellogg just published The Post Covid Church: An Action Plan to THRIVE Not Just Survive. Since the Spring of 2020, Kellogg has interviewed almost 100 pastors, lay leaders and leadership experts to discover what it takes for a church to serve as the hands and feet of Christ DESPITE the pandemic induced shutdowns. His project includes a website (www.thepostcovidchurch.com), Podcast, YouTube Channel, Facebook Group and App.
Stuart and his wife of 42 years, Beth, have two grown children and four grandchildren. Beth is a retired school teacher who subsequently ran her own authors' PR firm and speakers' bureau.
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Fr. Elad Shapira MDIV, MA/CP, Founder of Prodigal SD, talks with us about how to find spiritual direction during times of uncertainty. We discuss how he went from church planting to becoming a Spiritual Director & Coach. We walk through what it looks like to get spiritual direction and Elad gives us some helpful insight into how to put ourselves in a place to hear from God.
* Elad is offering a FREE Session for Empowered Manhood listeners. Just mention the title of the podcast in the referral section when setting up an appointment - https://calendly.com/prodigalsd/consultation
SHOW NOTES:
In case you haven't noticed, there is a shortage of men's resources being produced by Christian publishers today. Or at least that is the perspective of literary agent, Dan Balow. We learn about how the publishers are more incentivized to produce books and resources for women rather than men.
Dan helps us see this as an opportunity, especially for men who have a desire to become an author. You'll gain great perspective on the publishing industry and motivation for those of you who've thought about writing a book on any topic.
Dan Balow started in Christian publishing in 1983 and over the years has been involved in the business side of the industry in marketing, sales, foreign and domestic rights management, audiobooks, digital publishing, and acquisitions.
A significant amount of his experience was with Tyndale House Publishers from the early 90’s to the mid-2000’s. While there, Dan developed a wide-ranging perspective on the industry, taken from involvement with hundreds of authors, thousands of books and a love for the business.
He spent five years working with this agency as an agent, leaving temporarily in late 2018 to focus time on a publishing-related venture he owned before returning in early 2021.
Dan is a graduate of Wheaton College (IL) with a degree in Communications and has been married to Carol for 40+ years. They live in Wheaton, Illinois and have four grown children and five granddaughters.
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Most of us, as men, are terrible at making space in our lives for rest. We rush from one thing to another trying to accomplish so much, but often neglecting the most important things. Our guest today, Daniel Sih, talks with us about his new book, Spacemakers: How to Unplug, Unwind, and Think Clearly in the Digital Age. Daniel gives us some very helpful principles and steps to take to find calm in the midst of the storm.
Daniel has 15 years experience working in senior leadership and strategic consulting roles across Australia and the UK. As a trainer, coach and keynote speaker, he has worked with CEO’s, executives, and other senior professionals throughout Australia and beyond, ranging from global corporations and businesses to universities and non-profits. He has a broad professional history, including leadership roles in physiotherapy, health management, project management and Christian ministry.
Daniel is an award-winning author — his book Spacemaker won the Australian Business Book of the Year 2021 (Personal Development) and a finalist for Best Technology Book and Best Cover Design.
Daniel is also an accredited Top 5 CliftonStrengths® coach with the South Pacific Strengths Network, and co-creator of Email Ninja eLearning®.
Daniel has 3 children, 18 chickens and is a founding Director of Spacemakers.
SHOW NOTES:
A lot of pastors think online preaching doesn’t matter that much. They’re focused on getting real people into their real churches — not some cyber-campus in the Metaverse.
But here’s what many pastors don’t realize: online sermons are their church’s welcome center. Souls are at stake. The future of your church and your preaching ministry depends on your ability to communicate online. That’s where David wants to help.
Today we talk with David Murrow about his brand new project, The Online Preaching Coach. He shares some of the common pitfalls for pastors trying to communicate online and offers ideas to draw in more people through compelling online preaching.
If you are not a pastor or ministry leader you will benefit from this interview in 3 ways...
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How's your marriage? Do you feel like you and your wife have a strong marriage or a weak marriage? Do you feel connected to your wife? In this episode Author and Speaker, Oliver Marcelle, gives us a helpful framework to begin to learn about how we, as men, contribute positively or negatively to our marriage. Oliver reveals some secrets from his book that have helped many marriages grow.
Oliver and his wife, Denise, are the Co-Founders of Denoli, LLC where they offer coaching, mentoring, speaking, and facilitating services for couples and events. Oliver is the author of the book, "Overcoming the Man Laws: For The Man Who Wants to be His Best Despite What He Was Taught." Oliver and Denise also co-authored the couple's journal, "Have a Conversation," which helps couples learn to discuss difficult or uncomfortable topics.
SHOW NOTES
Dr. Hal Hadden is the Founder of CLC and the author of the book, "Love Jesus: It's All About Relationships." We talk to Hal about how CLC got started, and we learn about the lasting, biblical discipleship principles that have stood the test of time for nearly 40 years of CLC's existence.
We discuss some profound biblical concepts around relational discipleship, as well as leadership lessons that apply to any ministry context. Thousands of men all over the country have been profoundly impacted by this ministry with humble beginnings. This interview will inspire you toward faithful obedience and a focus on depth rather than breadth when it comes to discipleship.
SHOW NOTES
Greg Hasek, a licensed counselor with Southwest Florida Christian Counseling, specializes in counseling men who've experienced trauma from their partner's abortion. Whether you have experienced this yourself or not, odds are that you know a guy who has.
As prevalent as this issue is for men, we probably talk about it less than we talk about pornography. Greg helps us understand what men go through when they visit an abortion clinic with their partner, and how this affects a man's brain. We also talk about how men can approach counseling in general as something that reflects strength, not weakness.
You can find out more about Greg by visiting the Southwest Florida Christian Counseling website (https://www.swflchristiancounseling.org/therapists.html).
SHOW NOTES
How are you doing these days with work-life balance? If this is a struggle for you, our guest today, Cory Carlson, understands. In fact, he would say that he failed at home first before admitting he needed help and taking some drastic steps to improve in this area.
As an entrepreneur, former executive, husband, and father of three, Cory Carlson understands the pressures working parents face. He is passionate about helping business leaders win at home and work.
Twenty years in corporate America gave Cory amazing opportunities as he worked his way up to the executive level. But he also saw brokenness: work without purpose, burnout, lack of focus, strained marriages, and absentee parents. Business leaders especially were often not living life to the fullest.
Cory has a Civil Engineer degree from University of Missouri and a MBA from Rockhurst University.
His first book released June 2019 titled, Win at Home First, and is an inspirational guide for work-life balance. His book was Amazon #1 New Release in 3 Categories and listed in FORBES as ‘7 Books Everyone On Your Team Should Read’.
Cory is also host of the leadership podcast, Win at Home First, a Top 1.5% podcast per ListenNotes.
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Many men today struggle with reading the bible. We don't know where to start and we lack confidence in handling the word of God. Our guest today, Reverend Dr. David Instone-Brewer, shares some unique and helpful insights to make the bible more approachable. If reading the bible has been challenging for you, this episode will offer some great ways to move you forward.
The Rev. Dr. David Instone-Brewer is a research fellow at Tyndale House, a research library in biblical studies located in Cambridge, England. He previously served as a Baptist minister. His books include Divorce and Remarriage in the Bible, Divorce and Remarriage in the Church, and Traditions of the Rabbis from the Era of the New Testament.
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This is the second half of our interview with author and speaker, Jeremy Shelton. In part 1 (Episode 20 - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/are-you-a-muzzled-man-our-interview-with-jeremy/id1584970534?i=1000548392947), we spoke to Jeremy about the paralyzing effect pornography has on men and his unique book on the subject, "Unmuzzled: Escaping Sexual Sin - Satan's Grip on Men."
In part 2 of our interview, we focus in on the new technology that will increase a man's susceptibility to pornography. If pornography muzzles a man, virtual reality and augmented reality will put men in a straight jacket. This is a sobering conversation that deserves our full attention if we are going to engage temptation with our eyes open.
SHOW NOTES
Preston Poore, a corporate business leader with more than two decades of upper management leadership, talks with us about his new book, "Discipled Leader." We discuss this new book which provides struggling, stuck, or merely surviving Christian business leaders with a framework to grow their influence through becoming a redemptive (i.e., change for the better), Christlike presence in the workplace and living a more fulfilling life.
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These days our country and our church is fractured because of hubris, and an unwillingness to humbly seek understanding. Instead we're inclined to "cancel" anything we disagree with in order to maintain our own view of reality. Add to the mix a man's ego and you have a potentially volatile situation.
Steve Wiggers, a missionary in Nairobi, Kenya who trains pastors, has a perspective that men in the American church need to hear. Steve shares about the unique challenges of working and raising a family in a foreign country. We learn about how God shook Steve of his pride through his African students, and how his students educated him as much as he thought he would teach them.
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Author and speaker, Jeremy Shelton, joins us to talk about the paralyzing effect pornography has on men. There are a lot of books on the issue of pornography but Jeremy takes a unique approach in his book, "Unmuzzled: Escaping Sexual Sin - Satan's Grip on Men."
We consider what it looks like to be a "muzzled man," disempowered by lust and controlled by Satan. This imagery will leave an indelible mark on your mind as you engage in your own battle, or help other men to free themselves from porn's insidious grip.
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Very few people today know who their neighbor next door is. It's easy, as men, to drive into our neighborhoods, pull into our garage, close the door, and not interact with anyone. Our guests today, Bob Adgate and Mark Evans, are missionaries with "Nav Neighbors," a ministry that seeks to love our neighbors in the ordinary, day to day life. They share compelling insights into how we can reach and disciple our neighbors, so that both individuals and communities are transformed, and spiritual generations of laborers multiply.
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David Dusek has spoken to millions of men through his Rough Cut Men video series. He has a compelling message to men about how to combat the enemy of our souls who seeks to steal, kill, and destroy. We learn more about the unique challenges men are facing, especially in light of the pandemic, and how to apply tactics learned from the 7th Cavalry in Vietnam.
David Dusek’s mission is to encourage and equip men to live their lives for Christ. He utilizes his life experiences – including his upbringing in a non-Christian home, coming to Christ as an adult, and an extensive business background – to reach men in a way that they can understand. David’s vision is to engage all men where they are the “other six days of the week”—not just in church.
David is the founder of Rough Cut Men Ministries, which is primarily a live, interactive men’s experience using a strategic combination of action movie sequences, real world current events, Biblical truth and fireteam-sized discussion times with a single, laser focused objective: To get men talking about what’s really going on in their lives. David travels around the country, and the world, using the Rough Cut Men Movie Experience to get men to be transparent with one another and with Jesus.
David's most recent book, The Battle: Tactics for Biblical Manhood Learned from the 7th Cavalry in Vietnam was released February, 2021.
SHOW NOTES:
David Dusek's story has two distinct halves with a literal bridge in the middle where Christ got a hold of his heart. The man he was before that moment on the bridge is very different from the man he is today. While David doesn't allow his past to define him, he uses the memory of who he was to motivate his mission to serve God. David also shares about how to leverage our weaknesses and failures to cultivate authentic connection with other men.
David Dusek’s mission is to encourage and equip men to live their lives for Christ. He utilizes his life experiences – including his upbringing in a non-Christian home, coming to Christ as an adult, and an extensive business background – to reach men in a way that they can understand. David’s vision is to engage all men where they are the “other six days of the week”—not just in church.
David is the founder of Rough Cut Men Ministries, which is primarily a live, interactive men’s experience using a strategic combination of action movie sequences, real world current events, Biblical truth and fireteam-sized discussion times with a single, laser focused objective: To get men talking about what’s really going on in their lives. David travels around the country, and the world, using the Rough Cut Men Movie Experience to get men to be transparent with one another and with Jesus.
David's most recent book, The Battle: Tactics for Biblical Manhood Learned from the 7th Cavalry in Vietnam was released February, 2021.
SHOW NOTES:
Restore Addiction Recovery Center was born out of Dan Gregory's painful experience with addiction in his own family. Since January, 2021, Restore has already had a tremendous impact in men's lives and they are poised, by God's grace, to expand their reach. Dan explains how God provided in miraculous ways as his team took an innovative "open source" approach to developing the program.
We also hear about the partnership between Restore and CLC through Dan's relationship with Doug Hay, the local CLC Area Director near Akron, OH. CLC has come alongside Restore to provide our "Getting Real" curriculum for men in the program to begin their discipleship journey.
SHOW NOTES:
If you're struggling to find motivation to answer God's call on your life, you are in for some encouragement from today's interview with Kent Chevalier, Chaplain of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
In his usual, passionate communication style, Kent shares the inspiring story of how God called he and his wife to be missionaries. He also reveals amazing, biblical insight into where men find the strength to "do it afraid." You'll be moved by Kent's vulnerability and reminded of God's faithfulness.
KENT CHEVALIER'S BIO:
After serving for 22 years as a pastor in the local church, Pastor Kent (PK) stepped out in 2019 to become the Chaplain of the Pittsburgh Steelers through the ministry of Athletes in Action. He is a Pittsburgh native, a graduate of Geneva College and Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. Kent also partners with Lionshare as a national speaker and Vice President of their board. He loves serving and encouraging individuals, businesses and ministries with Erica as a part of this new ministry adventure, Team Chevalier. He values most being a husband to Erica and a dad to their three daughters.
TIMECODES:
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In part 2 of our interview, Christopher talks about his new book, Holy Sexuality and the Gospel: Sex, Desire, and Relationships Shaped by God’s Grand Story. He shares amazing insights from the bible about how to address this issue of sexuality from a theological perspective. Whether you are interested in the bible's view about being gay specifically, or sexuality in general, this book offers invaluable insight.
Dr. Christopher Yuan has taught the Bible at Moody Bible Institute for twelve years and his speaking ministry on faith and sexuality has reached five continents. He speaks at conferences, on college campuses, and in churches. He has co-authored with his mother their memoir, Out of a Far Country: A Gay Son’s Journey to God, A Broken Mother’s Search for Hope (100,000 copies sold and now in seven languages). He is also the author of Giving a Voice to the Voiceless. Christopher graduated from Moody Bible Institute in 2005 and received a master’s in biblical exegesis in 2007 and a doctorate of ministry in 2014. Dr. Yuan’s newest book, Holy Sexuality and the Gospel: Sex, Desire, and Relationships Shaped by God’s Grand Story, was named 2020 Book of the Year for Social Issues by Outreach Magazine.
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CONTACT:
Dr. Christopher Yuan has an incredible story of redemption, and has dedicated his life to sharing this message of hope born out of his struggle with same-sex attraction. In part 1 of our interview, we get to listen to Christopher's fence post story. He explains how discovering his identity in Christ not only freed him from drugs and alcohol, but also from the grip of homosexuality and a very destructive lifestyle.
Next week, in part 2 of our interview, Christopher talks about his new book, Holy Sexuality and the Gospel: Sex, Desire, and Relationships Shaped by God’s Grand Story. He'll share amazing insights from the bible about how to address this issue of sexuality from a biblical perspective. Whether you are interested in the bible's view of homosexuality specifically, or sexuality in general, this book offer invaluable insight.
Dr. Christopher Yuan has taught the Bible at Moody Bible Institute for twelve years and his speaking ministry on faith and sexuality has reached five continents. He speaks at conferences, on college campuses, and in churches. He has co-authored with his mother their memoir, Out of a Far Country: A Gay Son’s Journey to God, A Broken Mother’s Search for Hope (100,000 copies sold and now in seven languages). He is also the author of Giving a Voice to the Voiceless. Christopher graduated from Moody Bible Institute in 2005 and received a master’s in biblical exegesis in 2007 and a doctorate of ministry in 2014. Dr. Yuan’s newest book, Holy Sexuality and the Gospel: Sex, Desire, and Relationships Shaped by God’s Grand Story, was named 2020 Book of the Year for Social Issues by Outreach Magazine.
SHOW NOTES:
Most men today are not aware of the trauma and woundedness that contributes to our dysfunction. We've spent so much time in isolation, or distracting ourselves, that we don't know how to deal with our emotions or the cycle of shame that imprisons us. Roy Wooten, Executive Director of The Crucible Project, shares his story and his unique perspective on these struggles that men face.
The Crucible Project is a unique weekend experience designed to give men a chance to identify, and start dealing with, the issues that keep tripping them up. If you are a pastor, or men's ministry leader, you may be especially interested in the resources The Crucible Project offers the men in your church.
SHOW NOTES:
Let's face it, sharing your faith can be a scary proposition, especially when sharing it with someone from a different culture or religion. Greg Bryan, International Campus Minister with The Navigator's at Kent State University, shares some very practical ideas about how to share our faith from a place of confidence in our identity in Christ.
In this episode you'll hear Greg talk about his 2 primary tips to sharing your faith... 1) Practice spiritual curiosity, 2) Ask Questions about the other person's worldview.Here are 6 questions to ask someone about their worldview...
LINKS:
We sat down with David Derry, missionary with Cru and FamilyLife, to talk about his unique Stepping Up Ministry to men in prison. David shares the story of his ministry journey that brought him from working with couples in broken marriages to the unexpected joy of discipling men in prison through FamilyLife's Stepping Up Ministry.
In prison, David found men who were some of the most authentic men he had ever met. There was no pretense with these men who were keenly aware of their own brokenness and the consequences associated with it. Ironically, these incarcerated men are more spiritually free than most "free" men.
SHOW NOTES:
Information About David Derry: https://give.cru.org/0650749
Information about Family Life's Stepping Up Ministry: https://www.familylife.com/stepping-up/home/
Walking with a Brother Through Divorce: Part 1, Understanding the Extent of the Problem in the Church (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/walking-with-a-brother-through-divorce-part/id1584970534?i=1000538477429)
Walking with a Brother Through Divorce: Part 2, 9 Steps to Support Your Christian Friend (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/walking-with-a-brother-through-divorce-part-2-9-steps/id1584970534?i=1000539196156)
Visit the CLC Website: https://www.clchq.org/
Contact Mike Hatch about CLC: mhatch@clchq.org
Author David Murrow has been on both sides of the screen as a viewer and a television producer. He knows better than most the strategy involved in trying to keep viewers glued to the screen. In this episode we talk with David about his new book, "Drowning in Screen Time: A Lifeline for Adults, Parents, Teachers and Ministers who Want to Reclaim Their Real Lives."
This episode is jam-packed with amazing insight and perspective about how social media has hijacked us from accomplishing the purpose for which God called us. Have a pen and paper handy because you'll want to take notes. David helps us understand why, as men, we're especially susceptible to screens, and how we can combat the temptation so that we are more confident in engaging with reality.
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This is part 2 of a two-part series about how to walk with a Christian brother through divorce. Chris outlines 9 steps to support your Christian friend. Make sure you check out part 1 of this series in order to gain perspective around this issue and the challenges that face churches in confronting it.
Lastly, make sure you check out the resources below, in the show notes for further reading and study.
SHOW NOTES:
A Summary of the 9 Steps to Support a Brother Going Through Divorce
Crosswalk Articles Chris Authored About Divorce:
Other Links & resources:
In the first installment of our discussion on divorce, Co-host and author, Chris Bolinger, talks about the surprising realities of divorce in the church, and the impact it has specifically on men. As we seek to walk with our brothers through such a painful experience it's critical that we get a lay of the land and gain a broader perspective on how divorce impacts men.
SHOW NOTES:
Our guest today found success in corporate America and entrepreneurship. Then Michael Batenburg woke up to realize he had spent the first 45 years of his life serving himself, his wants, and all his desires. Although it seemed success had been achieved, it left Michael feeling lost, empty, and soul searching for his purpose and true happiness.
Since 2010, Michael's focus shifted from serving himself to serving others. Humility set in and as he started making his faith journey a priority, to know God, he became an ambassador to His great commission. This shift allowed him to live life more freely, see the world more clearly, and has truly made a difference in his life as well as other's lives. This has brought Michael to a place where he now knows who he is in Christ and what he is here to do until he meets the Lord in eternity.
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In today's episode Mike Hatch, CLC's National Relationship Generator and podcast host, shares his fence post story about how God redeemed him, and his marriage, from pornography. His life was defined by fear and insecurity which eventually led him to seek an escape from the pressures to perform.
God graciously exposed Mike's sin through a painful experience which taught him that "walking in the light" was where he would find true freedom and the power to change. Through his CLC group and his church, God provided safe places for Mike to be vulnerable and honest about his sin. This led to the healing he so desperately needed, and the transcendent purpose he was searching for.
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Author, speaker, and Empowered Manhood Podcast co-host, Chris Bolinger, shares his "fence post" story of God's redemptive work through his CLC brothers.
He spent most of his life avoiding male friendships, seeing other men as competition. Then, through his CLC group, Chris experienced the healing power of authentic brotherhood.
This fellowship provided a solid foundation to withstand the storms of life, and led to the creation of a best-selling men's devotional, "Daily Strength for Men," that has impacted thousands of men all over the world.
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In this week's episode we talk with bestselling author, speaker, and video producer, David Murrow, about his book, "Why Men Hate Going to Church." Most church services today are not designed with men in mind. In fact, according to Murrow, churches have been overly feminized and fail to retain men as a result.
David shares from his extensive experience about how pastors and church leaders can take immediate, practical steps to make church more appealing to men. He also announces a new opportunity for pastors who want to make a bigger gospel impact online. David will be launching the "Online Preaching Coach" in January, 2022. Make sure you check his website for updates on that.
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We interview the Founder & CEO of the Better Man Event, Brian Buckley. He shares his incredible story of life change, and how God took him from being an unwilling servant to the dynamic leader of the Better Man Event which today has a global impact. Denzel Washington is headlining this year's event on Saturday, September 18.
CLC and The Better Man Event are official partners and we discuss how this fruitful partnership has reached men all over the country. You'll also learn about how you can join the movement and leverage this event to reach friends and family for the gospel. Whether you're a pastor or parishioner, you 'll learn how to host this live, online event in your home or at your church.
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In this first episode we talked with CLC President, Dr. Craig Fry, about the re-branding of CLC. After nearly 40 years of ministry, CLC changed the name from "Christian Leadership Concepts" to "Christ Led Communities." Learn more about the re-brand by checking out the CLC Re-Brand YouTube Video.
Craig also shares the powerful story of grace in his life, and how God restored him to ministry after leaving the church because of a moral failure. It will become clear why God called Craig to his current position after you hear his inspirational story.
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