Shows
Leading ConversationsConversation with Jim JessupHow 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.Send...
2025-02-0331 minLeading ConversationsConversation with Roy GruberIn 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.Send us...
2025-01-2035 minLeading ConversationsConversation with Steve EngramSteve 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 em...
2025-01-0634 minLeading ConversationsConversation with Billy ClaudioWhat 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
2024-12-1631 minLeading ConversationsConversation with Alan AdlerAlan 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...
2024-12-0225 minLeading ConversationsConversation with Brendan ProutBrendan 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...
2024-11-0143 minLeading ConversationsConversation with Josh HusebyDiscover 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...
2024-10-1527 minLeading ConversationsConversation with Dom and Allie SimmonsWhat 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...
2024-10-0136 minLeading ConversationsConversation with Jay KimHas 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.Send us...
2024-09-1638 minLeading ConversationsConversation with Marlon MincksHave 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...
2024-09-0229 minLeading ConversationsConversation with Mike AlfordWhat 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...
2024-08-3035 minLeading ConversationsConversation with David WhitakerWhat 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 th...
2024-08-0547 minLeading ConversationsConversation with Chan KwakIn 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.Send us a textWe want to help you find your next steps in ministry.Connect here with EXCEL...
2024-07-1547 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Haig KherlopianIn 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.Send us a textWe want to help you find your next steps in ministry.Connect here with EXCEL. Ministry Partner: Christian Community Credit Union
2024-07-0133 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Jason SquiresToday'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 Send us a textWe want to help you find your next steps in ministry.Connect here with EXCEL. Ministry Partner: Christian Community Credit Union
2024-06-1734 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Andrew AlessoJ.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.Send us a textWe want to help you find your next steps in ministry.Connect here with EXCEL. Ministry Partner: Christian Community Credit Union
2024-06-0125 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Jay Nickless J.D. has a conversation with serial church planter Jay Nickless. Listen to his story and be encouraged. Ministry Partner: https://mycccu.com/excelSend us a textWe want to help you find your next steps in ministry.Connect here with EXCEL. Ministry Partner: Christian Community Credit Union
2024-05-1536 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Alex SwengAlex 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...
2024-05-0138 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Jeff SnodgrassJeff 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 raci...
2024-04-1527 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Joshua LaneJosh 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...
2024-04-0137 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Al SotoToday'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.Send us a textWe want to help you find your next steps in ministry.
2024-03-1529 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Vladimir KotyakovIt’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/excelSend us a textW...
2024-03-0136 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Brett and Karla BurnerBrett 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.Send us a textWe want to help you find your next steps in ministry.Connect here with EXCEL. Ministry Partner: Christian Community Credit Union
2024-02-1544 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Jim KennonJim 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 Part...
2024-02-0126 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Steve CliffordA 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...
2024-01-1542 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Aaron WalpIf 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...
2024-01-0134 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Steven & Katrina BentleyIf 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.Send us a text
2023-12-1528 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Jim PowellIf 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 la...
2023-12-0136 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Brent WarrenYou 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...
2023-11-1621 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Tom MercerJ.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 f...
2023-11-0136 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Eric GameroSometimes, 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 hi...
2023-10-1635 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Travis RaeOur 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...
2023-10-0227 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Jamal JonesJamal 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...
2023-09-1532 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Jeremy McGarityJ.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.Send us a...
2023-09-0139 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Micah FosterYes, 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...
2023-07-1729 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with John JacksonIn 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.Send us a textWe want to...
2023-07-0334 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Jack HamiltonSome 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.Send us a textWe want to help you find your next steps in ministry.Connect here with EXCEL. Ministry Partner: Christian Community...
2023-06-1528 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Dave BennettJoining 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.Send us a textWe want to help you find your next steps in ministry.Connect here...
2023-06-0127 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Elisha KakwerereYou 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. Send us a textWe want to help you find your next steps in ministry.Connect here with EXCEL. M...
2023-05-1529 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Jonathan SinghYou 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.Send us a text
2023-05-0125 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with TJ and Jess McCallToday'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.Send us...
2023-04-0335 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Casey and Aimee GravesToday'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.Send us...
2023-03-1530 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Jim SmithToday'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...
2023-03-0133 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Daniel NunezThe 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.
2023-02-1532 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Jay StovallToday'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 e...
2023-02-0136 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Brad and Ann BruckerIt'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.Send us a text
2023-01-1630 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Julian and Daisy DelmoreIn 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.Send us...
2023-01-0228 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Chris PinionToday'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. Send us a textWe want to help you find your next steps in ministry.
2022-12-1526 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Scott PearringIf 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.Send us a textWe want to help you find your next steps...
2022-12-0128 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Jeff and Lisa HarringtonAfter 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...
2022-11-1521 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Chris FinchumThe 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...
2022-11-0125 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Larry and Deb WalkemeyerDisregarding 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.Send us a textWe want to help you find your next steps in ministry.
2022-10-1738 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Daniel NunezYou 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. Send us a textWe want to help you find y...
2022-10-0326 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Jon Fegan and Christian AxeJon 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.Send us a textWe...
2022-09-1530 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Justin and Heidi FoxJustin 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.Send us a textWe want to help you find your next steps in ministry.Connect here with
2022-09-0133 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Larry OsborneLarry 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.Send us a textWe want to help you find your next steps in ministry.Connect here with EXCEL. Ministry Partner: Christian Community Credit Union
2022-08-1536 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Ray & Rachel HudsonRay 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.
2022-08-0123 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Ken HendrixKen 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.Send...
2022-07-1621 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Andrew MorrisonSometimes 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.Send us a textWe want to help you find your next steps in ministry.Connect here with EXCEL. Ministry Partner: Christian Community Credit...
2022-06-3025 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Brian & Sarah Drinkwine (Part 2)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.Send us a textWe want to help you find your next steps in ministry.
2022-06-1526 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Brian & Sarah Drinkwine (Part 1)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. Send us a textWe want to help you find your next steps in ministry.Connect here with EXCEL. Ministry P...
2022-05-1615 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Ken & Carolyn PrimeauKen 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.Send us a textWe want to help you find your next steps in ministry.Connect here with EXCEL. Ministry Partner: Christian Community Credit Union
2022-05-0231 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Andy ElliottIf 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. Send us a textWe want to help you find your next steps in ministry.Connect here with EXCEL. Ministry Partner: Christian Community C...
2022-04-1529 min
Leading ConversationsConversation with Josh FerrisIn 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.Send us a textWe want to help you find your next steps in ministry.Connect here with EXCEL. Ministry Partner: Christian Community Credit Union
2022-03-3027 min