Leading Conversations: Recent Episodes
J.D. Pearring
Conversations between J.D. Pearring (Director, Excel Leadership Network) and church planting leaders, innovators, and coaches from around the country.
Craig Whitney's journey from burned-out church planter to multiplication catalyst reveals powerful insights about sustainable ministry and leadership development.
Whitney's story begins with a familiar path—growing up in a ministry family, experiencing a pivotal moment of faith at summer camp, and eventually planting a church at just 26 years old. But after seven years of ministry in Windsor, California, he hit a wall that many leaders face: complete burnout.
What happened next proved transformative. A brief departure from ministry into the business world unexpectedly revolutionized Whitney's understanding of evangelism. He discovered that meaningful spiritual conversations happened naturally outside church walls—often initiated by others—challenging his preconceptions about how faith spreads in everyday settings.
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What happens when church becomes the last place people want to go? James Gleason never planned to become a senior pastor, but when a teen in his youth group pointed out how uninviting their church had become, something shifted. That realization launched him on a journey that would transform a congregation of 150 into a thriving church of nearly 2,000 while planting five additional churches.
Growing up with an unstable home life and constantly moving, James describes himself as a "reluctant convert" who initially pursued business before God redirected his path to ministry. His personal experience of brokenness and redemption fuels his passion for helping struggling churches find new life.
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Josephine "Jojo" Namudu's life story reads like a modern-day psalm of redemption and divine provision. From the red dirt of Uganda to the green landscape of Oregon, her journey reveals the transformative power of faith amid unimaginable hardship.
At just four years old, Jojo watched her mother die after a botched C-section when the family couldn't afford the $50 needed for corrective surgery. Living in a one-room mud hut with a thatched roof, sleeping on dirt floors, and often surviving on a single meal per day, Jojo and her siblings faced rejection from their stepmother after their father remarried. As the oldest daughter, she was forced to grow up quickly, shouldering responsibilities far beyond her years.
Today, Jojo serves as Pacific Northwest Representative for Serve Now, an organization operating in 30 countries that partners with local pastors to share Christ's love with vulnerable populations. Her leadership philosophy centers on leading yourself well before attempting to lead others, with accountability to God as the foundation.
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What happens when a punk drummer with a pompadour hairstyle starts questioning if Christianity might be a cult? Dan Kimball's spiritual journey unfolds as a testament to the power of honest inquiry and unexpected grace.
From a chance encounter with a gospel tract at Colorado State University to finding spiritual mentorship in a tiny elderly church in London, Kimball shares how his path to faith was shaped by intellectual curiosity rather than evangelistic pressure. When concerned friends staged an intervention, worried he was joining a cult, it only deepened his determination to discover the truth about Jesus for himself.
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What does it take to stay in pastoral ministry for over three decades? For Rene Schlaepfer of Twin Lakes Church in Santa Cruz, California, the answer might surprise you - a series of two-year commitments rather than a lifetime vow.
Rene's story begins with profound childhood trauma. At just four years old, his father died from cancer, leaving his Swiss immigrant mother barely speaking English and living below the poverty line with two small children. Through powerful stories of God's provision - like praying for milk one night and finding powdered milk on their doorstep the next morning - Renee shares how his mother's simple faith became the foundation for his own spiritual journey.
Today, Twin Lakes is experiencing something extraordinary - a wave of conversions among formerly unchurched people and committed atheists who report supernatural promptings to attend church. These testimonies serve as encouragement to pastors in difficult seasons: sometimes the harvest comes after decades of faithful sowing.
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What does revival look like in America's rural communities? John Craft offers a front-row perspective from Wyoming's Bighorn Basin, where churches in towns of just 4,000 people regularly see 250-300 in attendance, many being young families and former Mormons finding new faith in Christ.
Craft's journey to this vantage point follows an unexpected path. Growing up in a theologically liberal church where he was deeply involved yet never heard the gospel, his transformation began at a rescue mission Bible study. Today, as Regional Executive Director for Rocky Mountain Church Network (part of Venture Church Network, formerly Conservative Baptists), he travels 35,000 miles annually serving churches across four western states.
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Join us as Mike reflects on his formative years, shaped by a legacy of faith passed down by his family and community. He highlights how pivotal moments at youth camps not only solidified his own faith but also fostered an environment where young people could experience life-changing spiritual encounters. With an unwavering commitment to reaching lost souls, Mike emphasizes the role of partnerships between churches as a strategic approach to overcome current leadership gaps in their communities.
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Brad Little shares his inspiring journey from a childhood marked by insecurity in Calgary to becoming a lead pastor and regional executive director in Minnesota. Highlighting the significance of mentorship, prayer, and community connection, this episode emphasizes the essence of leadership in the face of challenges, especially during moments of division.
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How do legacies shape the leaders we become? Join us as we sit down with the inspiring Jim Jessup from Jessup University, who shares intimate stories of his family's remarkable church planting and leadership history. From his grandfather's founding of San Jose Bible College in 1939 to Jim's journey of answering a call to ministry at 16, Jim opens up about the enduring impact of his family's devotion to faith. Listen as he reflects on balancing basketball and ministry, and how his education at Lincoln Christian Seminary broadened his denominational perspectives towards a more inclusive faith in Christ.
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In our conversation, Roy illuminates the extraordinary ways his community engages with the local Mormon population through initiatives like "Love Gives" and "God's Garage," exemplifying compassion-driven outreach. We discuss how these programs foster meaningful connections, offering genuine support through acts of service and relational evangelism. With cultural insights into how holidays like Christmas are uniquely celebrated within the LDS community, Roy's stories reveal the opportunities for Christians to build bridges with their neighbors. Tune in for a heartwarming account of faith, compassion, and the unexpected power of relationships in fostering community growth and personal transformation.
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Steve Ingram's journey is nothing short of inspiring, reflecting both profound faith and unyielding resilience. Imagine facing the heartbreak of losing a spouse shortly after welcoming your child into the world. Steve opens up about his life, shaped by his upbringing in a devout Christian family and his commitment to ministry, which led him to become a youth pastor and eventually the pastor of Desert Springs Community Church. His candid reflections on overcoming personal loss with his family and faith community's support are heartwarming and moving. Join us as we explore Steve’s journey and his inspiring dedication to empowering others to harness their spiritual gifts for meaningful impact.
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What if a single injury could change your life's trajectory? Join us as we explore the incredible journey of Billy Claudio from Scottsdale, Arizona, whose life took a dramatic turn from aspiring engineer to influential Christian leader after a pivotal childhood event. Billy recounts his transformative experiences growing up in a devout Catholic, military family and the profound impact of his mother's spiritual awakening during a charismatic renewal. Unpack how a home Bible study at age 12 became the catalyst for Billy and his brother's commitment to Christ, reshaping their futures against the backdrop of their father's secular ambition
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Alan Adler's journey to Christianity is a captivating tale of faith, family, and transformation. In it, Alan shares how his father's quest, sparked by the Book of Revelation, led their family to embrace Christianity. Through Alan's story, we see how a dramatic church event and the camaraderie with his childhood friend, Karl Roth, played pivotal roles in nurturing his spiritual growth within a supportive community. Moving beyond his formative years, Alan discusses his transition from church ministry to the world of education. His passion for public speaking first guided him to volunteer at Tulare First Baptist Church, setting the stage for a lifelong commitment to ministry. His journey through seminary, working with church planters, and contemplating hospital chaplaincy during the pandemic reveals a life dedicated to service and leadership. Alan also shares insights from his current innovative remote church setup in Visalia, which fosters a unique sense of community outside traditional church walls. Wrapping up our discussion on a lighter note, Alan offers a practical tip for maximizing your Disneyland adventure, adding a sprinkle of fun to an episode rich with personal insights and spiritual reflection.
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Brendan Prout joins us with a remarkable tale of transformation and faith. Growing up in a Navy family, Brendan's early religious experiences were varied and mostly social in nature, with a particular fondness for youth groups where he could meet girls. However, his perception of church life took a radical turn when he encountered a community that defied musical norms with an electric guitar-playing pastor. This unexpected encounter led Brendan to explore deeper spiritual questions, steering him towards a meaningful commitment to Christianity. Brendan's journey wasn't without its trials. The profound loss of his father in a plane crash set him on a path of rebellion and self-destructive behavior, but it also became a turning point. As he grappled with grief and personal turmoil, Brendan found his way back to faith, rebuilding his life and launching a flourishing college ministry.
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Discover how a young man's journey from anger and rebellion to a life of faith and ministry takes center stage in our latest episode featuring Josh Huseby, a devoted church planter from Bismarck, North Dakota. Explore the powerful narrative of overcoming personal loss and embracing a calling, as Josh recounts the transformative impact of his father's passing and how it catalyzed his initial defiance of faith. Learn how a pivotal moment during his college years reignited his spiritual path, leading him to a unique style of ministry that defies traditional conventions, rooted in his Norwegian heritage and the rugged beauty of North Dakota summers.
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What happens when life takes unexpected turns, leading you away from and then back to faith? Join us as we bring you the incredible stories of Dom and Allie Simmons from Fort Worth, Texas. From Allie's journey of growing up in the church, losing her way during college, and rediscovering her faith as a single mother, to Dom's tumultuous youth marked by gang involvement and a transformative encounter with a youth group, their narratives are nothing short of powerful. Together, they navigate the complexities of their personal faith journeys and their collective mission in ministry, sharing how they met in St. Louis and began their work at I Am Churc
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Has your faith ever been shaken to its core? Join us as Jay Kim from Westgate Church in Silicon Valley recounts his profound spiritual journey, marked by his mother's radical conversion from agnosticism to devout Christianity. Relive the 1990s evangelical youth culture with Jay, who opens up about his faith deconstruction during college and how a small group of steadfast mentors reignited his belief, steering him towards a calling in ministry. Discover how these transformative years reshaped his career aspirations from business to church leadership, setting him on a path of service and spiritual growth.
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Have you ever wondered how a quest for identity can lead to a profound spiritual transformation? Join us as we sit down with Marlon Minx, the National Director of Church Planting for Converge, and uncover his powerful journey from an Irish Catholic upbringing to embracing a life in ministry. Marlon opens up about his formative years, the heartache of losing his father early on, and how these pivotal moments shaped his path to Christ. You'll also get a glimpse into the humorous side of Marlon's life, as we compare the ins and outs of living in Iowa versus California, and the surprising advantages of Midwestern living.
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What happens when a passion for baseball intertwines with a deep-rooted faith? In this episode of the Leading Conversations podcast, we sit down with Mike Alford from Macon, Georgia, to explore his incredible journey. Growing up in a Christian home, Mike's love for baseball was matched only by the influence of his parents' authentic faith. From playing the game in South Africa to his impactful involvement in sports ministry with Athletes in Action, Mike shares stories that are both heartwarming and inspiring. His father's role as a pastor plays a significant part in his story, as does his own ventures into ministry and coaching, culminating in the release of his book "Stretched."
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What if the foundation of your faith journey began at six years old? Join us as we sit down with David Whitaker, president of Venture Church Network, who shares his compelling story of growing up as a pastor's son and navigating its unique challenges. From the blessings and pressures of being a pastor’s child to the critical role his parents played in maintaining a healthy environment amid church dynamics, David provides an honest and heartfelt look into his early life. He also opens up about his struggles with faith during his high school and early college years and the search for his own identity beyond the expectations set by his upbringing.
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In this conversation, J.D. spends some time with Chan Kwak. If you know anything about the city of Compton, CA, you would never imagine a Korean child who was brought to the United States in the middle of the night by his parents would plant a church and reach that diverse community—his story of perseverance and dedication to sharing the gospel with whoever would listen will inspire you when you hear it.
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In this conversation, J.D. speaks with Haig Kherlopian, a leader, a pastor, and even a stand-up comedian. He shares a brief history of the first Christian nation, Armenia, and details how ping-pong brought his family to the United States. You will want to hear his whole story. Listen and be encouraged.
Today's conversation is with Jason Squires, a worship leader, songwriter, and speaker who travels around the country leading worship and teaching at conferences. His passion is leading people to Jesus through creativity and inspiring creatives to reach their full potential. Listen to his story and be encouraged.
Ministry Partner: https://mycccu.com/excel
Jason: https://jsmusic.net
J.D. has a conversation with Andrew Alesso. His full-time job is helping non-profit companies to develop and grow their fundraising. He also happens to be the lead pastor of Thrive LA church. Listen to his story and be encouraged.
J.D. has a conversation with serial church planter Jay Nickless. Listen to his story and be encouraged.
Ministry Partner: https://mycccu.com/excel
Alex Sweng is the pastor of Missio Dei Oakland, an Urban House Church Network in Oakland, CA. If you have been watching the news lately, Oakland is having quite a season. If you were to ask Alex if the news is all true, he would say that it is worse than you think and better than you think. Despite the city's challenges, God is working in the lives of those in need. Alex, a son of Korean immigrants who worked seven days a week for 30 years straight, wasn’t raised in church. He felt interested in reading the Bible in high school and read it through three times before graduating. He became a Christian in college and began working with The Navigators ministry. Ultimately, this work led him into full-time vocation ministry. Be sure to listen to his journey. You will be encouraged.
Jeff Snodgrass is the Lead Pastor at Unite Church located in Pasadena, CA. He grew up in Southern California, where, at 16, he made a life change and began to follow Jesus. After hitting rock bottom in his junior year, he prayed, “Lord, the life I live is now yours. Do with it as you will.” This is the same prayer that led him into ministry and is the same prayer he continues to pray daily. He has been in full-time ministry since 2006 and has an intense passion for making disciples, maximizing the ability of all around him, and mending racial divides. Listen to his story today, and you will be encouraged.
Josh was born and raised in Sacramento, California. He worked as a youth pastor in Atwater and Santa Rosa. In 2005, he moved back to Sacramento to pastor Northside Church, a church re-planted from Arcade Church. Like most church plants, bringing it back to a healthy place took work. Through all of that, he developed a partnership with Venture Church Network. He is now on their staff as a Regional Director. Working to develop church leaders and working with church planters. You will be encouraged by his journey and see how God has been faithful to his commitment to serve in ministry.
Ministry Partner: https://mycccu.com/excel
Today's conversation is with Al Soto from Shingle Springs, California. You can't say much more about his journey to become a Christian and his call to ministry; it could be a movie script. His life and journey took turns that one might find hard to believe. This is a conversation you won't want to miss and won't want to end. Make sure that you listen to this one, and you will be amazed at how God can work even today.
It’s just easier to call him Pastor Vlad. Today’s JD has a conversation with Vladimir Kotyakov. He came to the United States at the age of 11. Vladimir has a rich Christian heritage. A grandfather died for his faith in a Russian gulag, and his father and other family members were also pastors in Russia. He is currently serving as pastor at the House of Bread church near Sacramento, California. His journey will inspire you, and you won’t want to miss this conversation.
Ministry Partner: https://mycccu.com/excel
Brett and Karla Burner, from Spring Valley, California near San Diego, are from two different backgrounds and countries. They met at a summer camp and have been together ever since. Brett jumped into ministry. Bible studies led to teaching, which led to pastoring. Their journey will encourage you. And if you ever see Swell soda on the menu or in a store, you can thank Brett.
Jim began his walk with Jesus as a seventh grader in Cookeville, Tennessee, when he walked the aisle during a revival meeting and received Christ as his Savior and Lord. He later answered God’s call to the pastorate between his Junior and Senior years in college. His journey with Jesus has spanned five decades and has taken him across the country three times, serving as a lead pastor in four churches. Looking back on his journey with Jesus, Jim joyfully testifies to God’s amazing grace and faithfulness. You will be encouraged by his story.
Ministry Partner: https://mycccu.com/excel
A coach at heart, Steve Clifford lived the “Friday Night Lights” life as a high school football coach in Texas. But it was an invitation to a summer camp that changed his life in high school. There, he committed his life to Christ and didn’t look back. Early work in Young Life eventually led to a two-year volunteer commitment to help a church. That two-year commitment turned into a lifetime spent in ministry. Steve’s journey proves that God will provide what you need to succeed. The churches where he served were healthy, caring, and supportive. Not something that is always the case. That support was needed when he and his wife lost their son at the age of 25. Don’t miss Steve’s story. You will be encouraged.
Sponsorship of this podcast is in part by our ministry partner, Christian Community Credit Union. Find out more at: https://mycccu.com/excel
If the state of Arizona were a dartboard, the city of Payson would be in the bullseye. It is located near the geographic center of the state. Dr. Aaron Walp, who goes by “Walp” because of serving in law enforcement earlier in life, is J.D.’s guest today. Walp currently serves as the head administrator for a Christian school. Like so many kids, he experienced divorce in his parents’ marriage, and that brought him to a very dark place in his life. He had thoughts of suicide and developed a visceral hate for God. He eventually served as a police officer and detective. His sergeant gave him a tape series to listen to. Because he respected her, he listened to them, and his life was changed. You can call it a call or a stirring, but he started hearing people around him tell him he needed to go into ministry. This led to serving in churches, planting a church, and jumping into Christian education. Walp’s journey is unique; listen today, and you will be encouraged.
Walp’s Website: http://www.agwalp.com
Ministry Partner: https://mycccu.com/excel
If you were thinking about planting a church, the last place you might consider is Flint, Michigan. It just so happens that Steven and Katrina Bentley followed God’s lead and did just that. From their first date at Taco Bell to enjoying grandchildren today, the Bentleys have always sought after what God wanted them to be doing. Even when people around them said they weren't making “smart” choices, they stepped out in faith and were rewarded for obeying God’s purpose for their lives. When you listen to their story, you will be encouraged.
If you ever wanted to know someone who was from Peoria twice, J.D.’s guest, Jim Powell, is your man. He is currently serving as the Senior Pastor of Palm West Community Church. While he grew up in a Christian home, Jim went through all the mechanics of the Luther church his family attended. But he never really understood what it meant to have a relationship with Christ. In college, Jim worked as a DJ in a club and would finish work early in the morning. He is probably under the influence of an adult beverage. While watching late-night television infomercials, he orders a copy of “Power for Living.” He forgot that he ordered a copy. Eventually, he started reading it, and it changed his life forever. You will be encouraged by Jim’s journey.
You may have never wondered where Panhandle, Texas, is located. If you wanted to find it on a map, think out the square top of Texas, and it’s right in the middle of that. J.D.’s guest on this episode is Brent Warren, pastor of The River in Panhandle. Running from an abusive father when Brent was three, his mom took him and his sister to live with his Godly grandparents. At an early age, he felt the call of God to serve as a pastor. Life challenges led to a failed church plant and a marriage that ended. Brent thought he was done with ministry. But as it usually goes, God was not done with him. He found a life partner in ministry, remarried, and returned to ministry. Eventually, he finds himself at The River church. Brent’s story will encourage you.
J.D.'s guet on this episode is Tom Mercer. Odds are, if you have worked in ministry, you have probably read at least one of Tom's many books. He gew up in a Christain homa and his father was a pastor. Tom had always thought he would go into the “family” business of ministry. However, he witnessed the mistreatment of his father by the church he was serving in, and decided he wasn’t going to be a part of that. He left seminary and joined a friends marketing firm. It was a conversation with that Christian friend that finally made him realize he needed to get back to ministry. However, his time in marketing was not wasted. God has a way to make all things work together. Tom ultimately realized that the gospel needed to be represented (marketed) well “…conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ" (Phil 1:27). The rest is history. Tom has made his life’s work encouraging Christ followers to represent the Gospel in a manner that will honor Jesus Christ and demonstrate the care and compassion God has for this world. Listen and be encouraged.
Sometimes, what makes you different makes you who you are. While that may seem obvious, that cannot be truer for Eric Gamero, the pastor of The Local Church in South Florida. Eric had a Cuban father and a Korean mother. The culture clash eventually led to his parent's separation. Spending weekends with his mom meant that he grew up in a Korean church. Accepting Christ at 12 while at a summer camp, he didn’t understand what that looked like until he was 15 and decided to commit his life to serving God. Being one of two Asian kids in his high school made him very aware of what it means to be on the “outside.” This understanding still feeds his desire today to find those in the world outside of the love of Jesus and to help them see it. Listen today and be inspired.
Our guest today comes all the way from Holland. Not the land of Tulips, Holland, Michigan. Travis Rae is the Discipleship Pastor at Central Wesleyan Church and the Director of Waters Edge, a church building and planting organization. It truly is a miracle that you can hear from Travis today. His parents (mom pregnant with Travis) were traveling in Eastern Europe on April 26, 1986. The date may not ring a bell, but maybe the word Chornobyl sounds familiar. If not, the Chornobyl nuclear power plant in Ukraine exploded. The accident caused the largest uncontrolled radioactive release into the environment ever recorded for any civilian operation. As a result, after returning to the United States, Travis was born with the extremely rare genetic disorder, C9 Immune Deficiency. We won’t spoil the story, but you will want to hear how this miracle led to a life committed to supporting church leaders and a passion for witnessing the baptism of new Christians.
Jamal Jones knows he was fortunate to be raised in a Christian home with both of his parents. The youngest of five children, he learned early that he wanted to dedicate his life to serving the Lord. He wasn't sure what that would look like. A successful high school football experience led to a scholarship to play for the Fresno State Bulldogs. While at Fresno State, he became involved with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. His experience in FCA eventually led him to choose a career in Christian counseling, and now he has a practice in Fresno, CA. Listen to his story, and you will be inspired.
J.D.'s guest today is Pastor Jeremy McGarity. Growing up in a non-Christian home, Jeremy loved sports, but mostly baseball. He was drafted out of high school into the Minor Leagues as a pitcher. On the team, Jeremy noticed that the third baseman handled life differently than all the other players. A conversation led to an invite to a Bible study. This led to Jeremy leading the study, and his ministry life just continued after that. His journey will inspire you, and you will not want to miss the rest of the story.
Yes, it's true, J.D.'s guest today was in fact named after the Old Testament prophet Micah. It's in the Bible if you don't remember. It's that one, just past Jonah. As you hear Micah, the one from Fresno, CA, share his journey. You can see how God can take life's challenges and turn them around for his purpose. Growing up in and around ministry, Micah took on several challenges. Finally, it led him to a role where he now serves pastors through his own business called Dream Support. If you ever feel like you have too much on your plate, you can check them out at www.dreamsupport.club or contact Micah through his email. Listen today, be encouraged, and ask for help if you need it.
In this episode, JD has a conversation with Dr. John Jackson. He is currently serving as the President of William Jessup University. In his ministry life, he has been a church pastor, a church planter, and a mission leader of a denomination. He has a passion for the local church and a passion for leadership. His ministry experience has taught him valuable lessons about himself and what is essential when someone is in that role. Don't miss this conversation; you will be encouraged and gain valuable leadership lessons.
Some people have been in ministry for a long time and have been a part of some great movements, and then there is Jack Hamilton. He has done both and more. In today's conversation, you will hear Jack's story from the beginning and how God carried him through ministry and service to others ministering. You won't want to miss Jack's story. Listen, and you will truly be inspired.
Joining the conversation today is no stranger to the Excel Network. Dave Bennet has raised more money for churches than most of us will earn in a lifetime. In today's podcast, Dave shares the life-altering moment when his doctor spoke two words, cancer and malignant. Initially feeling abandoned by God, Dave tells JD how he saw purpose through the challenge and how it has changed his life. Listen to his story today, and you will be encouraged.
You will want to hear Elisha's story. It is so easy to think about church planting in the context of the United States. Most planters are thinking about how they will start, grow, and reach their communities for Christ. Imagine all those goals in Africa. Elisha Confronted family mysticism to find Christ and then to find the passion for planting churches. You won't want to miss this conversation. Listen and be inspired.
You might be surprised about the content of today's interview. Jonathan Singh is the pastor of Tribe City Church just outside Phoenix, AZ. With parents that immigrated to the United States, he spent his childhood on the rough street corrners of Queens, NY. Jonathan would hand out tracts while his father preached the gospel. Throughout a journey of ministry service, Jonathan always knew in his heart that he wanted to create a place for a community and people to come together united by the gospel. Listen to his story and be encouraged.
Today's conversation is with TJ and Jess McCall from Buckeye, AZ. Thier journey has led them through multiple leves of ministry from youth work, associate pastorship, and finally as a lead pastor. It also took them around the country, from Monterey, CA to Paducah, KY, and points in between. They are currently working on a new church plant in Palm Springs, CA. Traveling between Arizona and California to work on building their team and fundraising. If you feel the call to plant a church you won't want to miss their story. Listen and be encouraged.
Today's conversation is with Casey and Aimee Graves. Originally, from the Pacific Northwest, they felt led to settle in Temecula, CA. In 2019 they planted The Refinery Church. Throughout their marriage, they served as the principal leaders in starting and reimagining ministries that have proven to be effective in helping people come to know Jesus and grow in Him. Temecula has a diverse population is best know for being a high quality Southern California wine region. Just in case you were wondering, Casey shares the best year for Pepsi. Listen and be encouraged by their journey.
Today's converastion is with Jim Smith, President of the Pacific Church Network. He has been the President since March, 2006. Jim and his wife, Vicki, have 4 married children, and 11 grandchildren. He has been in active pastoral ministry since 1979, serving as a youth pastor and ultimately as a Senior Pastor. His ministry has taken him to many countries around the world on short-term mission endeavors. Since 2014, he has also been the pastor of San Antonio Heights Community Church in Upland, California. With his history, he has seen the good and bad of working in ministry. Listen and be encouraged by his journey.
The man, the myth, the legend, Daniel Nunez is the the guest on the podcast today. His journey has been one of faith in an audacious goal of planting 50 churches in the Mexico. It was just crazy enough that only God could make it happen. With a lot of prayer and a lot of work, by the grace of God, church number 50 was launched last month. Learn how how it was done and how Daniel has set up the future that the next 50 can be done. It is a lesson in faithful leadership. Listen and be encouraged today.
Today's guest on the podcast is Jay Stovall. From the "jewel of the inland empire," Redlands, California. Does life sometimes feel like you are in a perfect storm of challenges? Then you will appreciate Jay's journey. Recently, the Stovalls had insurance claims out on their car, their house, and their medical insurance. During all of this, his wife gave birth to their third child. Sometimes life circumstances make you feel like God is not on your side. If you are in a spot where you feel that way, you will want to hear Jay's story. Listen today and be encouraged.
It's an epic episode. Brad and Anne Brucker from Epic Church in Sherwood, Oregon, are interviewed by J.D. It all started with a dance on a rooftop. In addition to EPIC church, they are planting churches and serving African communities with medical care. If you are wondering if you are ready to plant a church, the Brucker's would tell you to "get in the game!" God is doing work around the world. If you are on God's mission, He will take care of you and provide abundance. Listen and be encouraged.
In today's episode, J.D. interviews Julian and Daisy Delmore. As you listen to their story, you will be encouraged to know that God works beyond what can typically be a statistic. Julian and Daisy are a testament to how faith and trust in God, no matter the challenge or the impossibility of a situation, is rewarded when God makes everything come together in his own way. Julian and Daisy seek ways to serve their community in a way that honors God and will demonstrate love and acceptance in their community. Listen and be inspired.
Today's conversation is with Chris Pinion. A pastor in Kansas City or "K.C.K.," a chaplain, and a volunteer fire chief. Chis makes being a part of his community a big part of his ministry. Coming out of a dysfunctional family, his mom was married eight times; Chris shares how God always has a plan, and that plan continues throughout life. You won't want to miss the ventriloquist gospel connection. Listen to the conversation, and you will be inspired.
If you'd like to hear from the individual JD calls one of the smartest persons he knows, here is your chance. Today's interview is with his son Scott Pearring. Raised as the son of a church planter, Scott shares his view from the backseat on the journey that led to Excel and his personal faith and professional growth. If you don't have a plan for your future, you will want one after listening. You will be inspired and learn some inside stories.
After years of working in ministry together, Jeff and Lisa Harrington decided to retire and move to Hawaii. What could be better than palm trees and beautiful beaches? Of course, planting a church. After Jeff and Lisa had spent some time in Hawaii, they saw how life for people living there is not the same as those who vacation there. God placed a call on their hearts to plant Lion's Den Church to meet their needs and serve the people in that community. Listen to their story, and you will be inspired. Oh, and yes, you can stay with them if you are ever in the neighborhood.
The call to church planting can lead someone to many places. In the case of Pastor Chris Finchum, he and his wife were led to Yuba City, CA, from Tampa, FL. After a few trips to visit his wife's family, they both saw the need for a church that could reach the people of the community that had walked away from the Jesus that wasn't the Jesus of the Bible. Of course, the fact that wild chickens roam the local In-n-Out Burger parking lot might have had something to do with it. Chris shares the importance of being willing to lean into the call God places on your heart. Listen to his story and be encouraged.
Disregarding her girlfriends' advice to avoid the new football player on their college campus, Deb decided to introduce herself to Larry. That choice lead them both into a remarkable ministry adventure together. They saw God's vision to change from the popular church growth model to a church multiplication model (church planting). Their church caught the vision as, well, and they got going. They trusted in God's vision and worked to make that happen. Listen to their story and be encouraged.
You have probably heard people talk about God's big plan for this world. Most assume that those plans are for someone else. Not Pastor Daniel Nunez. He caught God's crazy, audacious, bold, and inspiring vision to plant 50 churches in Mexico. The really crazy thing is that, in early 2023, he and his team of pastors will be planting church 50. Daniel is an example of how God can do the impossible through people willing to take a step of faith. Listen to his journey and be inspired.
Jon and Christian were two friends on different journeys in their faith. Both came to realize that God was more than they had initially imagined. After working in various ministry roles in different areas, Jon and Christian were led to plant Fireside Church in September of 2022 near Phoenix, AZ. They would be the first to tell you that you can't give up on God's call and being genuine to yourself and the gifts that God has given you is the key to success. Listen to their journey and be inspired.
Justin and Heidi Fox are planting a church in California. It's just not where you might first think of; this part of California is nearly three hundred miles north of San Francisco, in Arcata, CA. Think redwood forests instead of palm trees. It's a community of artists and creatives. You might want to listen to Justin's tip about having the shortest altar call at the end of a sermon. Listen to their story and be encouraged.
Larry Osborne is a pastor, author, mentor, and leadership consultant. He pioneered several concepts that shape our modern church today, teaching teams, multisite churches, and sermon-based small groups. Larry shares his own journey and how his family and their support shaped his faith. You will be encouraged by his story.
Ray and Rachel Hudson are church planters in Berkley, California, arguably one of the most challenging cities in the U.S. to plant a church in. They had to devise a unique plan to reach their community. It's all about loving and serving the city "so hard that they rethink their preconceived notions of faith." Rather than focusing on college students, they strive to impact people who don't typically want "church." City Center Church was the first church ever recognized as one of the top five volunteers in the Berkley school district. Listen to their story and be inspired.
Ken Hendrix is a church planter with a long history in ministry that brought him to California for over a decade. Ken and his wife have been back in their home state of Kentucky for several years now. As with most of his ministry work, Ken's original plan was not God's. Inspiration for a church plant became an interim lead pastor position, allowing an existing church to thrive and grow. Ken has also figured out a way for the U.S. government to help fund his missionary outreach program. Listen to his story and be inspired.
Sometimes when you are a church planter, you feel like you have the weight of the world on your shoulders. Andrew Morrison, a church planter in Colorado, can actually calculate that weight. It starts at 675 pounds and goes up from there. Andrew participates nationally in Strongman competitions. So if you ever feel like you have a lot on your shoulders, you can be encouraged by his story.
This is part two of our conversation with the Drinkwines. How would you handle your church plant launch when more than half of your launch team is in COVID quarantine and half of your RSVPs cancel for the same reason? Brain & Sarah found themselves in that situation when they launched their second church plant in the Spring of 2022. You will be encouraged by their journey, and you might even want to pack up everything you own and move to Nashville.
How would you handle your church plant launch when more than half of your launch team is in COVID quarantine and half of your RSVPs cancel for the same reason? Brain & Sarah Drinkwine found themselves in that situation when they launched their second church plant in the Spring of 2022. You will be encouraged by their journey, and you might even want to pack up everything you own and move to Nashville.
Ken and his wife Carolyn lead Mercy Road Church Northeast in Indianapolis, Indiana. They share how their desire to be faithful to God's plan for their ministry, brought them both from southern California and Hawaii to the midwest. After hearing their stories, you may just want to go fishing and eat some cookies.
If anyone is proof that God has a plan for your life, it is Church planter, Andy Elliott. Currently the pastor of The Beat Church in Round Rock, Texas. The intervention of Christian friends pulled him away from an addiction to alcohol and self-destructive behavior. A willingness to be open to what God wanted him to do, helped him overcome severe social anxiety. You will be encouraged by Andy's journey.
In this episode, J.D. meets with Josh Ferris, a church planter from Loveland, CO. If there is one takeaway from the conversation, it could be, don't join the Marines without telling your wife first. Beyond that, Josh has learned first hand when you ask God for faith; God provides you with opportunities to develop faith. You will be encouraged by Josh's journey.
In this episode, you will hear from Luke Allen. Not only a church planter that has planted other churches out of his own, but the COO of Excel Leadership Network. You will be encouraged by his journey, and after listening, you may feel the need to head to a Cracker Barrell restaurant for a challenging conversation.
If you have ever been to an Excel Discovery Center, then you have probably met today's guest. From its beginnings, Geoff Wells and his wife Sharon have been a part of Excel Leadership Network. As a retired Army officer, he is often referred to as "The Colonel." Geoff's life story is worth listening to. For anyone that has been lucky enough to meet him, you walk away from that meeting knowing that he is passionate about supporting church planters and how Excel plays a role in expanding God's kingdom. Listen and be encouraged.
Today's conversation is with Paul Mints, pastor of the TCAL Church in Midland, TX. Paul was fortunate to grow up in a Christian home where both parents demonstrated their commitment to Jesus. His call to ministry came naturally. When Paul was led to plant a church, like most planters, it started with Paul wearing many hats to get all the pieces moving. He developed a novel approach to leadership development that enabled his small team to expand efficiently. Listen to this episode, it will inspire you.
As a church planter or leader, this thought has probably crossed your mind; my work would be much easier if my church were located on a beautiful island paradise in the Pacific. It turns out the opposite is true. Stefen and Amber Fussle launched Awakening church on the island of Maui. Beyond all the typical challenges faced when planting a church, they needed to find a way to navigate a resilient island culture. They established a healthy church community through their dedication to God's mission, involvement in their community, and overcoming personal setbacks. Listen and be encouraged.
Weston Brown led his first church at the young age of 19. He went on to work in various church settings, both large and small, until he finally was led to plant a church in Shreveport, Louisiana. As he shares his journey, he shares how important it is not to get caught up in the operations of a church and lose sight of people in need of the gospel.
Churches across the country have mostly figured out how to operate in a COVID world. It has been a long two years for many to figure out how to reach their communities effectively. Chris Kirish made what many would consider at the time to be a crazy decision. He decided to launch his new church plant entirely online. That wasn't how you started a church. It worked and has led Renovate Church in some exciting directions. Listen and hear their journey of faith and trust in God's plan.
After you hear the story of Stuart's life, you'll learn how God's mercy and plan for our lives are real. It was a long road from dealing drugs and time in prison, to now planting a church in Valley Center, CA. Listen to his story and you will be encouraged by the plan that God had for Stuart's life, and for yours.
To say that Tim and Kyah have been on a spiritual journey their whole lives is an understatement. Both separately and together as a couple, God has taken them through some exciting adventures. They are currently planting Neon Chapel in Whittier, CA. Their story will inspire you. Afterward, you will be on the lookout for "Scooter."
The Pulleys are an example of how sometimes dating the boss is a good idea. The journey of two Californians (one born in Iran) working together in a restaurant to planting a church in Utah is quite a tale. This month we hear from Nick and Sogol Pulley and how they have grown in ministry together throughout their relationship. You will be encouraged by their story.
Imagine being a child, and one morning, you wake up in a completely different country, don't speak the language, and look different from all the other kids. That was how Chan Kwak began his life in the United States when his parents moved the family from South Korea in the middle of the night. His journey has brought him to the streets of Compton, CA, where he has launched LA One Church. You will not want to miss his story; it will inspire you.
Raymond and Cassandra Rojas lead Real Life Church in the San Diego community of Chula Vista. Ther are passionate about serving those in need in their city. Raymond shares his journey to ministry and his call to leaders to take a risk and take a rest. Take some time to hear their story, and it will inspire you.
Chris Hall is the Lead Pastor at Catalyst Church Ventura. His passion for church planting and church planting pastors is only matched by his skills as a professional inline skater. Chris' experience has developed him into a valuable resource as a mentor and a coach for new church planters. You will be encouraged by his story.
Nathan, "Chivo" to those who know him, has first-hand U.S. church planting experience, having led in a church plant re-launch in New Orleans post-Katrina. As an adoptee and adoptive father, Nathan is passionate about children who come from difficult backgrounds. Originally from inner-city Minneapolis, Nathan grew up in a Christian home in a culturally diverse environment. He served a church in Juarez, Mexico for a year and a half, which led him to seminary, where he caught the church planting bug. Nathan and his wife Joy have three young children: Benicio, Taegen, and Grace. The Hawkins are a family that welcomes foster children and loves connecting with the local church.
Dave Lodwig, a pastor in Missoula, Montana, shares how the church was a refuge from a turbulent childhood. Several years in ministry in various roles have led him to River Valley Church, where he is turning around a historic church that had been a fixture of the town for over 130 years. Dave shares the unique challenges, struggles, and triumphs involved in this process.
Josh is one of the founding pastors of Multiply Indiana, a regional (and multi-denominational) church planting network rapidly planting churches throughout Indiana. Multiply Indiana has the vision to plant 100 churches regionally within the next 16 years in every context of their state (urban, suburban, and rural...) - MultiplyIndiana.com.
Additionally, Josh is the founding pastor of the Mercy Road Family of Churches. Mercy Road is an atypical, fast-growing church with an emphasis on micro-churches (outposts) and disciple-making (huddles). Additionally, Mercy Road gives 50% of its total giving "outside the walls" of the church! Josh is married to his beautiful wife Lisa and is dad to Jake, Jenna, and Jet.
Matt and Carrie Dilley have been in full-time ministry for the last 10 years. They are passionate about helping people discover their purpose, potential, and most importantly knowing Jesus because they believe that following Jesus makes your life better and makes you better at life.
Over the past several years they've grown weary of watching young families become marginalized in the local church because of politics, tradition, and theology. They launched Tribe Church September 16th, 2018.
Peyton started in Huntington Beach, CA at a megachurch, then went to Wales, and served as the evangelist at Lloyd-Jones’s church Sandfields, and started planting churches in public spaces, like Starbucks. He has served in collegiate campus churches, rural and urban churches, legacy churches, churches in public space…you name it. Peyton has written several books. Most recently Church Plantology: The Art and Science of Planting Churches. His goal in life is to expand today's believers' minds to think as believers in the 1st century did, and like church leaders in the Developing World, Western Europe, and Persecuted Church have to.
Paul is almost as passionate about Georgia Bulldogs football as he is about reaching people with the saving message of the gospel. A church planter at heart, Paul planted Rivers Crossing Community Church in 2007. Rivers Crossing is passionate about reproducing other missional churches. He has been married to Farrah for 25 years and together they have four children: Alexandria, Ansley, Gavin, and Eli.
Pastor Scott and his wife Kim Lackey founded New Story Church in Buffalo, New York. Home of the most zealous football fans the Bills Mafia. Prior to planting New Story Church, Scott and Kim both worked at The Chapel in Getzville, NY, and a church plant locally. Scott and Kim are passionate about building the local church and inviting all to discover the New Story God has for their life.
Scott also just released a new book called Journey into a Greater Concern. Through the story of Jacob, he discovers how each of us can live in the greater concern that we have been designed for.
Check out his book here: https://amzn.to/2SCmrk4
Willie Nolte is the CEO/Mission Lead of Transformation Ministries. Transformation Ministries (TM) is a covenanting association of leaders and 200 churches in the United States, and Northern Mexico committed to seeing more healthy churches. Before joining TM, Willie pastored in local congregations for 32 years in Illinois and California. Willie enjoys reminding church leaders that “No church or leader was ever meant to do ministry alone - so don’t!”
Simon Geller, his wife Amanda, and their six children moved to Texas in 2015 to plant a church in Livingston. As a former police officer, Simon offers a unique perspective on the conversations happening around the country today. In addition, he shares some real suggestions for pastors as they lead their communities through challenging times.
David Diaso has served in missions for almost 30 years. He and his wife Dawn began church planting in Mexico City in 1990, one of the world's largest and neediest cities. Then they ministered out of Colorado Springs preparing and training missionaries. Now they minister in the world’s largest bi-national city: the San Diego-Tijuana border. On the podcast, he shares some of his harrowing stories, including how he survived a kidnapping while serving in Mexico.
Stu Streeter is a church planter, a pastor, and oversees church planting for the North American Baptist denomination. He shares with us his journey to know Christ and how that impacted his life. He also recently completed a sabbatical and talked about the importance of taking time to refresh and renew and what it looks like to return to active ministry. Document: Ambition The Driver of Isolation
Brian Burman has been involved in ministry for many years as a church planter, pastor, and leadership coach. He was part of the original launch of Excel Leadership Network and after some time away has come back to lead Excel coaching. He shares his personal journey, struggles, and victories over the past few years.
Ralph Moore has been tied to more church plants than anyone in North America. He planted churches in Southern California and Hawaii and has a family tree that includes over 2300 churches! Ralph lives in San Diego with his wife, Ruby. He coaches and advises church planters and serves as a church planting catalyst for Exponential.
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