Shows
Ordinary Discipleship PodcastChrist, Community, Character, Calling, CompetencyWhat does it really mean to grow as a disciple of Jesus and are we starting in the right place? In this episode, Chris, Jacob, and Jessie Cruickshank unpack the “Five Cs” of discipleship: Christ, Community, Character, Calling, and Competency. Together, they explore why starting with a skills assessment or plugging people into ministry roles based on talent can short-circuit the deeper work of identity formation in Christ.Jessie draws from neuroscience, her experience training church leaders, and even jellyfish biology (yes, really!) to help us reimagine discipleship as a relational, community-driven journey of becoming. Character is shap...2025-07-2822 min
The Dr. Virga PodcastHow Neuro Feedback is helping Veterans with PTSDSend us a textIn this powerful continuation of our conversation, Marine Corps veteran and co-founder of Tiwaz Awakening, Luke Jensen, returns to take us deeper into the world of brain mapping, neurofeedback, and the science behind trauma healing.We go beyond plant medicine in this episode—exploring the cognitive and neurological impacts of PTSD, depression, and emotional trauma. Luke breaks down how QEEG brain mapping and neurofeedback can provide visible, measurable improvements in brain function—often helping clients recover from years of trauma without pharmaceuticals.We also talk about:🧠 What your brain w...2025-07-2156 minOrdinary Discipleship PodcastHow to Know When to Speak UpWhen is it time to speak up and when is it wiser to stay silent? In this episode of Ordinary Discipleship, Chris, Jacob, and Jessie dive into the tension we all feel in relationships, ministry, and daily life: knowing when and how to bring something up. Jessie shares a powerful framework rooted in four key questions - Do I have God's eyes, heart, tone, and timing? - and how it radically reshaped her leadership and interactions. Together, they explore how to align with the Holy Spirit, navigate conflict with grace, and avoid becoming the self-appointed “fixer” in someone else’s stor...2025-07-1416 minOrdinary Discipleship PodcastInterview Series: Multiplying the Hispanic Church with Obe and Jacqueline ArellanoWhat does it look like to multiply disciples and churches across cultures, languages, and borders? In this episode, Jesse Cruickshank sits down with Obe and Jacqueline Arellano, leaders of Exponential Español, to explore the vibrant and growing movement of the Spanish-speaking church—both in the United States and throughout Latin America.From their base in Mexico City, the Arellanos are equipping churches to move from decline and plateau into reproduction and multiplication. They share what’s translating well across contexts, how principle-based discipleship is catalyzing change, and why the Hispanic church may be the key to revit...2025-06-3043 minOrdinary Discipleship PodcastInterview Series: Creating a Disciple Making Culture with Sheldon Lacsina and Bunny CorreaWhat does it take to shift a church from programs to real discipleship? In this episode, Jessie Cruickshank talks with Bunny Correa and Sheldon Lacsina about their journey transforming a traditional, performance-based church into a community of everyday disciple makers.They share how deep friendship, vulnerability, and years of holding space with the Holy Spirit led to a slow but lasting cultural shift. From certificates and classes to shared leadership and relational trust, Bunny and Sheldon reflect on the joys, challenges, and breakthroughs of learning to lead like Jesus. If you're contending for deeper discipleship in your...2025-06-1651 minOrdinary Discipleship PodcastInterview Series: Spiritual Authority with Christine CaineWhat does it really mean to walk in spiritual authority—and why do so many of us confuse titles and positions for the real thing? In this episode, Christine Caine and Jessie Cruickshank get honest about the difference between worldly influence and Kingdom authority, why identity matters more than a job description, and how genuine spiritual power always comes with testing and formation. They wrestle with the tension between activity and anointing, the pitfalls of confusing influence with authority, and the practical wisdom it takes to discern God’s assignment for your life. This is a conversation about spiritual disc...2025-06-0243 minOrdinary Discipleship PodcastInterview Series: You Will Be Peter: How the Flaws of a Fisherman Speak to Us All with Jerry Lathan and Steven ManchesterIn this episode of the Ordinary Discipleship Podcast, Jessie Cruickshank talks with Jerry Lathan and Steven Manchester about their new book You Will Be Peter. They explore the life of Simon Peter - flawed, passionate, and deeply relatable - and how his story speaks to our own journey of following Jesus.You’ll hear:Why Peter’s failures matterHow storytelling makes Scripture come aliveThe power of emotional honesty in discipleshipWhat it means to become who Jesus says you will beFind out more about You Will Be Peter at youwillbepeter.comORDER Jessie’s newe...2025-05-1922 min
The Dr. Virga PodcastSpecial Guest: US Army Combat Medic (Ret.) & CEO of Tactics 2 ToysSend us a textFrom the front lines to figurines — in this episode of the Dr. Virga Podcast, I sit down with retired Army combat medic and owner of Tactics 2 Toys, Anthony Ciotti. We dive into his 30+ years of military service, how he turned a love for pop culture into a thriving collectibles business, and the ups and downs of veteran entrepreneurship. If you're a fan of horror, hip hop, D&D, or just a good underdog story — this one’s for you.🎧 Available on: YouTube | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio🛒 Check out Ant...2025-04-211h 03
The Dr. Virga PodcastComing Soon... Tactics 2 Toys CEO Anthony Ciotti (US ARMY Ret.)Send us a textSpecial Guest: Anthony Ciotti, US ARMY Combat Medic, RetiredSupport the showWelcome to Jessie Virga’s channel, where she shares insights on her wide array of interests. Jessie also hosts an audio podcast (link below). Jessie Virga hails from the Bronx and has an extensive background in security and defense, having spent 10 years in the military in various security roles. Following her military service, she pursued a degree in Cognitive Behavioral Neuroscience from UCSD and briefly pursued medical school. Realizing her true passion lay elsewhere, she tr...2025-04-181h 03
The Dr. Virga PodcastSpecial Guest: No More 9 to 5 Club CEO Jason McNamaraSend us a textIn this episode, I sit down with Navy veteran and entrepreneur Jason McNamara, founder of the No More 9 to 5 Club & Foundation. From Guantanamo Bay to top-tier sales to building a life of purpose and peace, Jason shares powerful lessons on trusting your gut, building generational wealth, and creating businesses that serve people—not just profits. Whether you’re a veteran, aspiring entrepreneur, or just tired of the 9 to 5 grind, this episode will leave you inspired to take control of your life.🎧 Tune in now and take the first step toward your own 9 t...2025-04-1443 minOrdinary Discipleship PodcastGrowing Faith in Safe Places: A Guide to Trauma-Informed DiscipleshipWhat does it mean to disciple people who carry unseen wounds? In this episode, Jessie Cruickshank explores trauma-informed discipleship—what it is, why it matters, and how it can transform the way we help others grow in Christ. Jessie shares how neuroscience and spiritual formation intersect, the importance of psychological safety in Christian community, and how leaders can create spaces where people can heal and be formed into the likeness of Jesus. Whether you're a pastor, small group leader, or someone walking alongside others, this conversation offers practical insight and deep encouragement.
ORDER Jessie’s newest book...2025-04-0828 min
The Dr. Virga PodcastSpecial Guest: US Navy Vet & Twin Screws Foundation Owner - Jesse CookSend us a textIn this episode, I sit down with Jesse Cook, founder of Twin Screws Foundation, to talk about hunting as therapy, the veteran mental health crisis, and why doing hard things in nature might be the key to healing. From submarines to elk hunts, Jesse's story is raw, powerful, and deeply inspiring.Links:Website: https://www.jessievirga.com/episode29Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drvirga Podcast equipment: https://amzn.to/3BxWVTfBook list: https://amzn.to/3zYwYMoSupport the showWelcome to Jessie Virga’s c...2025-03-311h 51
The Dr. Virga PodcastComing Soon... US Navy Vet & Twin Screws Foundation Owner - Jesse CookSend us a textSpecial Guest Jesse Cook 🎙️🔔 LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & TURN ON NOTIFICATIONS to stay updated on new episodes!Support the showWelcome to Jessie Virga’s channel, where she shares insights on her wide array of interests. Jessie also hosts an audio podcast (link below). Jessie Virga hails from the Bronx and has an extensive background in security and defense, having spent 10 years in the military in various security roles. Following her military service, she pursued a degree in Cognitive Behavioral Neuroscience from UCSD and briefly pursued me...2025-03-2700 minOrdinary Discipleship PodcastEnding Well: How to Navigate the Closing Chapters of DiscipleshipIn this episode of the Ordinary Discipleship Podcast, Chris, Jacob, and Jessie dive into a topic many avoid—how to navigate the endings of discipleship relationships. While the beginning of a mentoring journey is often exciting, knowing when and how to conclude a season of discipleship can be challenging.Together, they explore these key questions:How do you discern when a discipleship relationship should change or end?What does a healthy, fruitful ending look like?How can you redefine the relationship without losing the good work God has done?With personal stories and practical wisdom, Je...2025-03-2422 min
The Dr. Virga PodcastSpecial Guest: US Navy Vet, Real Estate Investor & Entrepreneur - Trevor MethenaSend us a textWith a real estate portfolio of over 20 properties, Navy veteran Trevor Methena now runs a successful HomeSmiles franchise in Austin, Texas—all while balancing a full-time job and family life. In this episode, we dive into his journey from military service to entrepreneurship, how he built his rental empire, and why he chose franchising as his next big move.Support the showWelcome to Jessie Virga’s channel, where she shares insights on her wide array of interests. Jessie also hosts an audio podcast (link below). Jessie Virg...2025-03-171h 03
The Dr. Virga PodcastComing Soon... US Navy Vet, Real Estate Investor & Entrepreneur - Trevor MethenaSend us a textSpecial Guest Trevor Methena 🎙️🔔 LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & TURN ON NOTIFICATIONS to stay updated on new episodes!Support the showWelcome to Jessie Virga’s channel, where she shares insights on her wide array of interests. Jessie also hosts an audio podcast (link below). Jessie Virga hails from the Bronx and has an extensive background in security and defense, having spent 10 years in the military in various security roles. Following her military service, she pursued a degree in Cognitive Behavioral Neuroscience from UCSD and briefly pursued medical school. Re...2025-03-1300 minOrdinary Discipleship PodcastSpiritual Maturity in Youth Ministry: Finding the Right BalanceIn this episode of Ordinary Discipleship, Chris Johnson, Jacob, and Jessie Cruickshank dive into the critical balance between fun and faith in youth ministry. Are we simply entertaining young people, or are we truly discipling them? The discussion explores the power of mentorship, the need for spiritually mature leaders, and why young adults crave authentic relationships over flashy programs. Drawing from real-life experiences and brain science, the hosts challenge traditional youth ministry models and offer a fresh perspective on guiding the next generation toward spiritual maturity. Listen in as they share insights on what it takes to create meaningful...2025-03-1020 min
The Dr. Virga PodcastComing Soon... US Navy Vet & Crossfit Never Broken Gym Owner - Cody HajekSend us a textSpecial Guest Cody Hajek 🎙️🔔 LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & TURN ON NOTIFICATIONS to stay updated on new episodes!Support the showWelcome to Jessie Virga’s channel, where she shares insights on her wide array of interests. Jessie also hosts an audio podcast (link below). Jessie Virga hails from the Bronx and has an extensive background in security and defense, having spent 10 years in the military in various security roles. Following her military service, she pursued a degree in Cognitive Behavioral Neuroscience from UCSD and briefly pursued me...2025-03-0800 min
The Dr. Virga PodcastSpecial Guest: Army Ranger Veteran & Financial Services Expert - Nathan WheelerSend us a textNathan Wheeler’s journey is one of resilience, transformation, and purpose. Growing up in a challenging environment, he never imagined himself in the military—let alone becoming an Army Ranger. After years of service and overcoming personal and professional obstacles, he transitioned into financial services, where he now helps people across the country build financial security and generational wealth. In this episode of The Dr. Virga Podcast, Nathan shares his powerful story, the lessons he learned along the way, and how he is empowering others to take control of their financial future.Su...2025-03-031h 06
The Dr. Virga PodcastComing Soon... Army Ranger Vet & Financial Services Expert - Nathan U WheelerSend us a textSpecial Guest Nathan Wheeler 🎙️🔔 LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & TURN ON NOTIFICATIONS to stay updated on new episodes!Links:Website: https://www.jessievirga.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drvirga Podcast equipment: https://amzn.to/3BxWVTfBook list: https://amzn.to/3zYwYMoSupport the showWelcome to Jessie Virga’s channel, where she shares insights on her wide array of interests. Jessie also hosts an audio podcast (link below). Jessie Virga hails from the Bronx and has an extensive background in security and defense...2025-02-2801 minOrdinary Discipleship PodcastThe Mentorship Gap: Why Young Adults Struggle to Find DiscipleshipIn this episode of The Ordinary Discipleship Podcast, we sit down with Reyna Martinez to discuss the challenges of finding mentorship and discipleship as a young adult. Reyna shares her deeply personal journey—growing up in youth group, experiencing the impact of intentional leadership, and then struggling to find discipleship after aging out of traditional church programs. She speaks candidly about the obstacles Gen Z faces in seeking authentic relationships within the church and the importance of persistence, vulnerability, and real connection. Hosts Chris Johnson and Jessie Cruickshank dive into leaders' fears and insecurities when mentoring others, while Reyna pr...2025-02-2440 min
The Dr. Virga PodcastSpecial Guest: John Davis - Veterans Living AbroadSend us a textFrom serving in Afghanistan with the 101st Airborne to advocating for student veterans at Harvard, John Davis is a man of many talents—and now, he’s helping veterans build better lives abroad. In this episode, we discuss his journey, his move to the Dominican Republic, and how veterans can find purpose beyond service.Support the showWelcome to Jessie Virga’s channel, where she shares insights on her wide array of interests. Jessie also hosts an audio podcast (link below). Jessie Virga hails from the Bronx and ha...2025-02-241h 01