Shows
The Choir Director PodcastEp #12: Myles Finn: How Musical Theatre Transforms Choir Rehearsals (And Engagement Overnight)A choir warm-up on a whiteboard turns into a viral moment, then into a teaching philosophy. We sit down with Myles “It’s Mr Finn” Finn to talk about what actually makes singers lean in: not performative energy, but real craft, clear standards, and a teacher who shows up as themselves. If you lead a school choir, conduct a community ensemble, or juggle show choir and musical theatre, this conversation is packed with practical rehearsal thinking you can use straight away.We get into the nuts and bolts of running school musicals at scale, where 120 plus students might...
2026-05-0646 minThe Choir Director PodcastEp #11: Daniel Raaflaub: What If Movement Is The Shortcut To Better SingingThe scariest moment for many choir directors is not the high note, it is the first time you ask the group to move and everyone suddenly forgets how to stand. We sit down with choir choreographer Daniel Raaflaub to get practical about choir choreography, staging, and how to build confident stage presence without turning your ensemble into a “dance troupe”.Daniel shares how his background in performing arts and musical theatre shapes a storytelling-first approach: movement that clarifies meaning, strengthens expression, and supports clean ensemble timing. We explore what “show choir” really means, why tiny unified gestures can be m...
2026-04-2943 minThe Choir Director PodcastEp #10: Why Do I Do This ? How Your Own Passions Influence Your ChoirMusic can be the loudest thing in the room and still not be the point. On his birthday, Russell goes solo for a personal, practical reflection on what truly drives choirs, festivals, mentoring, concerts, and all the unseen choices behind great musical experiences.We talk about why choral conducting is really people work, and break down three forces that shape every strong ensemble: connection, transformation, and standards. Connection is what turns individuals into a unit over weeks and months. Transformation is what happens when someone who “isn’t a singer” finds confidence, steps on stage, and believes it. St...
2026-04-2328 min
The Session with Tom RussellThe Session: The Sandwich Generation & Caring For Aging ParentsThe Session - The Sandwich Generation & Caring For Aging Parents1 Timothy 5:4: Encourages children to "repay" parents by caring for them.Ephesians 6:1-3 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise— “so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.What is the sandwich generation?The "sandwich generation"—typically adults aged 30–50—faces immense, often overwhelming burdens, balancing care for children a...
2026-04-1634 minThe Choir Director PodcastEp 09: Simon Berg: A Better Ensemble Sound Starts When Singers Trust Their EarsA choir can sing the right notes and still leave an audience cold. That’s why I loved sitting down with Berlin choral musician and choir leader Simon Berg to get practical about the one thing that changes everything: how singers feel and listen while they sing. Simon’s work connects ensemble blend, tuning, and expression into one skill set, so we stop treating “technical problems” like isolated fires to put out and start building a choir that self-corrects in real time.We talk about Simon’s journey from playing organ in church as a teenager to training a...
2026-04-1540 minThe Choir Director PodcastEp #08: Chris Maunu: Practical Techniques for Clearer Choral ToneYou can hear it the moment a choir stops “trying hard” and starts making sound with intent. That shift is what I chase with guest Chris Maunu, a conductor, educator, and composer based in Portland, Oregon, with nearly two decades of experience building choirs from the inside out. We talk about the real-world craft of improving choral sound in ways you can repeat tomorrow: better breath support, cleaner vowels, less tension, and more singer ownership.Chris shares how an artistry-first mindset earns trust quickly, especially with youth choirs. Instead of opening rehearsal with the hardest passage or a wa...
2026-04-0847 minThe Choir Director PodcastEp #07: James Manwaring MBE: What If Every School Had A Choir ?If you have ever watched a school choir rehearsal lose five minutes to late arrivals, missing copies, and low energy, you already know the real challenge is not musical talent. It is leadership, structure, and buy-in. I sit down with James Manwaring MBE, Director of Music at Windsor Boys’ School and a major voice in UK music education, to talk about what actually works when you are leading teenagers and the clock is against you.We unpack practical rehearsal techniques for school choirs: how to start quickly, how to make the first moments feel meaningful, and when te...
2026-04-0143 minThe Choir Director PodcastEp #06: Abi Gilchrist: You Can Build A No Audition Choir And Still Perform BrilliantlyFour singers above a pub can turn into 18 choirs and 750 members, but only if you build something people want to come back to every week. We sit down with Abi Gilchrist, founder and director of UK Soul Choirs, to get practical about what actually makes an inclusive, non-audition community choir work without letting standards slide.We talk choir leadership that goes beyond waving your hands: how to create a rehearsal room that feels fun, safe, and motivating, and why that atmosphere is often the difference between a choir that survives and one that grows. Abi shares how...
2026-03-2546 minThe Choir Director PodcastEp #05: How to Build a Gospel Choir That Actually Grows with Keara SheeranA gospel choir in Ireland might sound unlikely until you hear how it actually happens: one person asks to sing, a choir director says yes, and a community begins. I’m joined by Keara Sheeran, a choral practitioner and gospel music specialist based in Galway, who has spent more than 25 years championing gospel music and connecting directors across Europe and the US.We talk about what “gospel” really means in musical terms, not just as a label. Keara shares how she moved from familiar church songs into a more authentic gospel sound, digging into rhythm, syncopation, expressive phrasi...
2026-03-1841 minThe Choir Director PodcastEp #04: The Rehearsal Mistakes That Are Holding Your Choir Back (And How to Fix Them Fast)Rehearsals don’t fall apart because the music is too hard. More often, they fall apart because the room leaks time, focus, and respect in tiny, repeatable ways. I’m Russell Scott, and I’m putting a spotlight on the unglamorous topic that quietly decides whether your choir rehearsal feels calm and musical or chaotic and exhausting: rehearsal etiquette.I share my top ten rehearsal etiquette rules for singers and choir leaders, built from years of real rehearsal rooms. We talk about arriving early (not merely “on time”), bringing your own music, and why a simple pencil can save y...
2026-03-1129 minThe Choir Director PodcastEp #03: Leading with Heart: Jen Bonnar on Building Community Through SongWhat does it really take to lead hundreds of everyday voices into a single, confident sound—and keep joy at the centre week after week? We sit down with Scotland-based Rock Choir leader and arranger Jen Bonnar to unpack the craft behind community singing that changes lives. From a childhood in classical choirs to careers in electronics engineering and learning and development, Jen’s unusual path built the clarity, empathy and stagecraft she now brings to multiple choirs across the west of Scotland.Jen opens up about the moment she first stepped onto the podium to cover a go...
2026-03-0433 minThe Choir Director PodcastEp #02: How to Rehearse Like Jonas Rasmussen: Practical Tools for Building Precision and JoyWhat if your warm-up wasn’t just about waking up voices, but snapping a whole room into one mind? We sit down with Danish conductor, educator, and arranger Jonas Rasmussen—leader of Academic Choir Aarhus and a youth mixed choir, and the creator behind millions of views of rehearsal craft—to unpack how synchronicity, risk, and razor-sharp cues turn good choirs into magnetic ensembles.Jonas shares the origin of his viral videos and the pedagogy behind them: never the same warm-up twice, seven words or less to protect momentum, and the audacious “kamikaze” first read that embraces mistakes t...
2026-03-0440 minThe Choir Director PodcastEp #01: Welcome to The Choir Director Podcast: Why This Show Exists and What You Can ExpectEver walked out of rehearsal wondering why you worked so hard yet moved so little? We kick off The Choir Director Podcast with a clear promise: cut the chaos, save time, and lead with calm confidence using practical tools you can try this week. From community ensembles to professional groups, we focus on simple, proven frameworks that make choirs sound better fast—without burning you out.We share the core pillars that consistently lift results: clarity of goal, smart process, and steady leadership. You’ll hear how to prioritise rhythm before detail when the ensemble feels shaky, shap...
2026-03-0414 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: It’s not normal! Part 2The Session: It’s not normal!Genesis 2:24 "Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh."Every February, Tom & Scott celebrate “Love Month”. Mostly because Valentine’s Day is also Tom’s Anniversary (celebrating 51 years this year!). We also this to celebrate God’s gift of marriage, and to encourage you in your marriage.Not much in the notes this time, just 7 “It’s not normal” thoughts from marriage coaches Tommy and Dianne McCollister:It’s not normal to not have i...
2026-02-1931 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: It’s not normal!The Session: It’s not normal!Genesis 2:24 "Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh."Every February, Tom & Scott celebrate “Love Month”. Mostly because Valentine’s Day is also Tom’s Anniversary (celebrating 51 years this year!). We also this to celebrate God’s gift of marriage, and to encourage you in your marriage.Not much in the notes this time, just 7 “It’s not normal” thoughts from marriage coaches Tommy and Dianne McCollister:It’s not normal to not have i...
2026-02-1222 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: Marriage Habits of Millennials, Gen X and Gen Z - Part 2The Session: Marriage Habits of Millennials, Gen X and Gen ZPsalm 145:1-5I will exalt you, my God the King; I will praise your name for ever and ever. Every day I will praise you and extol your name for ever and ever.Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom. One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts. They speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty—and I will meditate on your wonderful works....
2026-02-0526 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: Marriage Habits of Millennials, Gen X and Gen Z - Part 1The Session: Marriage Habits of Millennials, Gen X and Gen ZPsalm 145:1-5I will exalt you, my God the King; I will praise your name for ever and ever. Every day I will praise you and extol your name for ever and ever.Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom. One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts. They speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty—and I will meditate on your wonderful works....
2026-01-2929 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: So, she said yes in December…now what?You start 2026 as an engaged person. First, congratulations! But now there's lots of things to start doing. We talk through that on this episode of The Session. Please forgive me (Scott), the notes from the episode have vanished into the ether world of my laptop, and I can't find them anywhere. So listen close! ;) A devotional podcast for parents on the go! Encouragement, Scripture, & prayer in just 7 minutes. Join the journey!To reach Tom Russell, go to https://www.heritagechristiancounselingofmansfield.com.
2026-01-0830 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: Favorite Christmas Story Characters and Favorite Christmas MovieThe Session: Favorite Christmas Story Characters and Favorite Christmas MovieAbove all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 1 Peter 4:8Favorite Characters in Christmas story Heather - I love the shepherds—to think that they were out in a field at night and a host of angels appeared above them—they had to be shaking in their sandals!! And then how they responded is so inspiring—if only we all could go running towards Jesus with the...
2025-12-1826 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: The First Christmas Without A Loved OneThe Session: The First Christmas (and other holidays) Without A Loved OneMatthew 5:4 "Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted"Highlights And Reactions To The First Christmas Without A Loved One from Tom and Scott.It Is Important To Prioritize Your Needs. Take Time To:WalkNapHave important conversations Take time to have your space.Crying and hugs are to be expected and enjoyed Find new family traditions that help after experiencing lossNew traditions could include cruisesRent a h...
2025-11-1330 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: The Christian Response to AIThe Session - The Christian Response to AI The Golden Calf (Exodus 32): While Moses was on Mount Sinai receiving the Ten Commandments, the Israelites created a golden calf to worship, a blatant act of idolatry that angered God.Exodus 20: 3-5 You shall have no other gods before me. You shall not make for yourself a carved image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. You shall not bow down to them or serve t...
2025-11-0635 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: Celebrating Down Syndrome Awareness Month with Scott & Erin, Part 2Sorry, no show notes for this one. This is the conclusion of a two-episode conversation I had with my daughter, Erin about her daughter, Allison. My hope is that our conversation raises awareness about just how truly beautiful and special kids with exceptionalities are, and that they have a role in our world today.A devotional podcast for parents on the go! Encouragement, Scripture, & prayer in just 7 minutes. Join the journey!To reach Tom Russell, go to https://www.heritagechristiancounselingofmansfield.com.
2025-10-3025 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: Celebrating Down Syndrome Awareness Month with Scott & ErinSorry, no show notes for this one. This is the first of a two-episode conversation I had with my daughter, Erin about her daughter, Allison. My hope is that our conversation raises awareness about just how truly beautiful and special kids with exceptionalities are, and that they have a role in our world today.A devotional podcast for parents on the go! Encouragement, Scripture, & prayer in just 7 minutes. Join the journey!To reach Tom Russell, go to https://www.heritagechristiancounselingofmansfield.com.
2025-10-2325 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: Tips for Parenting TwinsThe Session: Tips for Parenting TwinsScripture: Genesis 25:22-26The babies jostled each other within her, and she said, “Why is this happening to me?” So she went to inquire of the Lord. The Lord said to her, “Two nations are in your womb, and two peoples from within you will be separated; one people will be stronger than the other, and the older will serve the younger.” When the time came for her to give birth, there were twin boys in her womb. Ohio has a special con...
2025-08-2828 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: Grandparents Parenting Their GrandchildrenThe Session: Grandparents Parenting Their Grandchildren - Parenting for FaithProverbs 22:6Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it.Scott and Tom’s memories of their grandparents3 Truths That Every Grandparent Should Know1. You are influential – whether you know it or notThink back to your childhood. Can you remember your grandparents? What is it about them that still influences you today? Although I have never seen them play...
2025-08-2124 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session-LonelinessThe Session-LonelinessPsalm 68:5-6 ~ “Father of the fatherless and protector of widows is God in his holy habitation. God settles the solitary in a home; he leads out the prisoners to prosperity, but the rebellious dwell in a parched land.” God is always present and provides comfort; Psalm 34:18, "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit," emphasizing God's closeness to those who are hurting; and Matthew 11:28, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest," offering solac...
2025-04-1726 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session-TemptationThe Session-Temptation1 Corinthians 10:13"No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it."Scott’s going to take us down a rabbit hole right out of the gate…Let’s talk about the original temptation…Eve in the garden.Did God warn Adam and Eve about temptation? He knew t...
2025-04-0323 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session-Artificial IntelligenceDISCLAIMER: IN THIS EPISODE, THERE IS A DISCUSSION ABOUT A.I. AND SUICIDE. THIS EPISODE MAY NOT BE APPROPRIATE FOR YOUNGER, AND ESPECIALLY UNSUPERVISED, CHILDREN.The Session: Artificial IntelligenceWith info from: Focus on the Family, Daily Citizen, and “Artificial Intelligence will Never Compete with Our God-Inspired Imagination” by Paul Batura Proverbs 9:10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.Yet A.I. – the science of machines “thinking” like humans, supposedly onl...
2025-03-0627 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session-Dating in the Digital Age-Part 2Article by Suzanne Hadley Gosselin, Focus on the Family, Oct. 2023Philippians 2:3-4Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”Virtual PitfallsTexting can be a very helpful tool as you get to know someone. But there are some areas to avoid:Bread-crumbing-This involves sending out flirtatious messages with no real intention of committing. *Scot...
2025-02-2723 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session-Dating in a Digital Age-1The Session: Dating Etiquette in a Digital AgeArticle by Suzanne Hadley Gosselin, Focus on the Family, Oct. 2023Philippians 2:3-4Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”Virtual PitfallsTexting can be a very helpful tool as you get to know someone. But there are some areas to avoid:Bread-crumbing-Thi...
2025-02-2023 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session-Dealing with Aging Parents-2The Session: Helping Aging Parents-Part 2 of 2Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God is giving you. (Exodus 20:12)It is a biblical mandate to honor elderly loved ones. Honoring parents is a way to love others as yourself and to love God.Prayer and meditationPrayer and meditating on Scripture can provide comfort, wisdom, and protection. Trusting GodPsalm 28 provides language to understand God's heart toward those who are overwhelmed or confused about how to help.
2025-01-1624 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session-Dealing with Aging Parents-1The Session: Helping Aging Parents-Part 1 of 2Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God is giving you. (Exodus 20:12)It is a biblical mandate to honor elderly loved ones. Honoring parents is a way to love others as yourself and to love God.Prayer and meditationPrayer and meditating on Scripture can provide comfort, wisdom, and protection. Trusting GodPsalm 28 provides language to understand God's heart toward those who are overwhelmed or confused about how to help.
2025-01-0927 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session-Goal SettingDid you make a New Year's resolution? According to research, most resolutions have already been broken. If that's you, don't give up! Tom & Scott have a way to get you back on track!The Session: Goal Setting & ResearchScripture: Proverbs 16:3 “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.”1. SMART =SpecificMeasurable VisionAction Plan Who, When, Where & HowReviseTime...
2025-01-0227 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: Journaling as Therapy You might recognize this episode from earlier this year. As we looked back, it seemed like an important topic that doesn't get talked about enough. Maybe a sub title would be, "Journaling....it's not just for 12 year-old girls anymore". See what you think...The Session: Journaling, A Helpful Treatment Strategy Psalm 119:27Cause me to understand the way of your precepts, that I may meditate on your wonderful deeds. Journaling Helps· It helps me see the ways that God's Spirit in me is producing growth over time.
2024-12-1224 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe 3 Fuels of Anger-Part 1 What started as an idea for one episode covering the 3 Fuels of Anger has become 2 episodes, with Scott pouring out his anger issues for you and Tom to sort out. Who's bright idea was this?The Session: The 3 Fuels of AngerEcclesiastes 7:9 Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools.1. FearThose things that we fear in life also fuel our anger. A good example when I was a school teacher I also had a fear of heights. My children regularly hel...
2024-11-0725 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: ADD/ADHD School's been in session for a bit, maybe you're noticing some changes in your child. Maybe their teacher is telling you about some behavioral issue. It could be Attention Deficit Disorder, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. In this episode, Tom & Scott talk about some symptoms and possible treatments.The Session: AAD/ADHD SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENTRomans 5:4-5, “Suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” Notice that hope comes from character, which comes from perseverance, which comes from suffering. Inattentive ADHD, your greatest struggle will come from problems such as high distracti...
2024-10-0324 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: Being a Blessing During Pastor Appreciation Month October is Pastor Appreciation Month. In this episode, Tom & Scott share some ideas on how to bless your Pastor (AND their families) this October...and really, all year!The Session: Pastor Appreciation Month1 Thessalonians 5:12–13 (NIV): “Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other.”Pick a different strategy for the week. Do it every day of t...
2024-09-2624 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: The Pastoral Grind Here's your first reminder! Pastor Appreciation Month is just a couple weeks away! As you think about how to honor the Pastors (AND their families) in your church, Tom & Scott talk about some alarming statistics about why it's important to honor those who serve the Lord and teach you.The Session: The Pastoral GrindProverbs 4:23: "Above all else, guard your heart for it is the wellspring of life"Stress, loneliness and political division are the three items that rise to the surface.56% of pastors say stress of th...
2024-09-1924 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: Screen Time & Your Kids Screen Time. It's become the age-old fight of the home. But how much screen time is really appropriate and healthy for our kids? Tom and Scott talk through that in this episode.The Session: Screen Time and Our Kids Based on an article from Fox News Aug. 11, by Melissa RudyThat’s according to a recent Denmark study led by Dr. Jesper Schmidt-Persson from the University of Southern Denmark. It looked at the effects of reduced screen media exposure on youth mental health.Eighty-nine families with a total of 181 children and teens were randomly...
2024-09-1224 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: Making school fun! The Session: Preparing Your Children For The School Year With Maslow’s Heiarchy as a Guide, from Simon & SchusterMatthew 19:14 "Jesus said, 'Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these'"Scott’s question: Does this work for home schoolers as well as traditional students?Who is Maslow?Abraham Maslow was an American psychologist who developed a theory of psychological health.· His theory was based on the developmental stages...
2024-08-2925 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session-Bullying In this "retro" episode from 2022, Tom & Scott look at a tough topic as school starts...bullying. How do you know if your child is a victim? How do you if your child IS a bully? We talk through it.ScriptureWe should treat others the way we would like to be treated (Luke 6:31). Definition: Bullying occurs between two students who have different degrees of power.Researchers who study bullying cite three common characteristics of what makes an act bullying:· Bullying is intentional and tries...
2024-08-1525 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session-Role Models The Session: Role models-who are/were your role models? Who do/did you look up to? What characteristics led you to make them a role model? We sort that out in this episode! Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, (Titus 2:7) Characteristics of Jesus, Leadership· Compassion Jesus demonstrated compassion in all interactions and advocated for a world of love and forgiveness.· Selflessness Jesus' teachings and example of selfless leadership put leaders in a position of humilit...
2024-08-0824 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: Ask Me Anything! "Ask me anything". You ever say it, and instantly say to yourself, "What WAS I thinking"? But you all provided a great mix of serious and fun question for this episode! So many, in fact, that we had to do an additional segment which did NOT make it to air on Rise FM! We can't guarantee that we answered in the order below, but we think we got to all them...The Session: Ask Me Anything!We chose to leave the name out due to the topic: So middle age and single..how would...
2024-06-2042 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: Father's Day, part 2 NOTE: If you would like to send us a question for our “Ask me Anything” episode, please email scott@risefmohio.com or tom.hccm@gmail.com We would love to hear from you! Serious or silly, it doesn’t matter! Father’s Day, Part 1 (We didn’t intend for a 2-parter, but it’s us, so….)Luke 15:20So he got up and went to his father. “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, thre...
2024-06-0625 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: Father's Day, part 1 NOTE: If you would like to send us a question for our “Ask me Anything” episode, please email scott@risefmohio.com or tom.hccm@gmail.com We would love to hear from you! Serious or silly, it doesn’t matter! Father’s Day, Part 1 (We didn’t intend for a 2-parter, but it’s us, so….Luke 15:20So he got up and went to his father. “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, thre...
2024-05-3025 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: Journaling....is it for everyone, or should Eeyore stay away? If the title of this episode freaked you out a bit, don't worry, we aren't going to the Hundred Acre Wood. One of Scott's nicknames is "Eeyore". He tends to see things through a glass half empty lens. As we discuss journaling today, see if God isn't inviting you to move into this way of expressing yourself and your feelings.The Session: Journaling, A Helpful Treatment Strategy Psalm 119:27Cause me to understand the way of your precepts, that I may meditate on your wonderful deeds. Journaling Helps·...
2024-05-2325 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: More Mother's Day Thoughts "Mom"...."Stepmom" Such important names, such important people. On this episode, Tom & Scott share thoughts on honoring mom.The Session: Helps For Honoring Your Mother On Mothers DayExodus 20:12, “Honor your father and your mother,” and Leviticus 19:3, “Every one of you shall revere his mother and his father.”By Amy Bost Henegar. She has been a pastor for the Manhattan Church of Christ in New York City since 2001. She has a Doctor of Ministry degree from New York Theological Seminary and is a Board Certified Chaplain.Mothering Can Be Painful...
2024-05-0924 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: Our Missionaries Need Encouragement! Part 2 Our Missionaries. Serving our Lord all over the world, in places we won't go. They need our continuous love and support. In this episode, we wrap up our talk about some struggles our missionaries have, and how we can support them. And remember, you can always suggest a topic for us to cover on The Session! Just email scott@Risefmohio.com The Session: Dynamics of the Missionary FamilyBy: alifeoverseas.com Acts 13:47For so the Lord has commanded us, saying, "'I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may...
2024-04-1824 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: Our Missionaries Need Encouragement! Our Missionaries. Serving our Lord all over the world, in places we won't go. They need our continuous love and support. Tom and Scott talk about some struggles our missionaries have, and how we can support them. And because it's Tom and Scott, it's going to be a two-parter....The Session: Dynamics of the Missionary FamilyBy: alifeoverseas.com Acts 13:47For so the Lord has commanded us, saying, "'I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.'"
2024-04-1124 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: Pastors are still wanting to leave the church! We usually only talk about celebrating our Pastors in October. We feel like that's a mistake, and the article we base today's show on shows that.Our notes are listed first, with the article following.Isaiah 41:10Don’t be afraid for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.Data Shows Pastors are dealing with:· Increased conflict· Poor relationships· Rigid in the c...
2024-04-0425 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: The Implications of Jesus' Death on the Cross Happy Easter! He is risen! In this episode, we talk about the importance of Jesus rising from the grave. It won't sound like it at first, but we really will get there....The Session: Implications From Jesus Victory On The CrossWhy are you looking in the place of the dead for someone who is alive? He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: 'The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the t...
2024-03-2825 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: 10 Beautiful and True Things God Says About You YOU are something special to God! If, like Scott, you sometimes feel like "Eeyore", this episode is for you!The Session: 10 Beautiful, True Things God Says about YouSelf Confidence in Christ; or, how to turn Eeyore into an optimist! 1. I Am Beloved (Ephesians 2:4-5) 2. I Am a Masterpiece (Ephesians 2:10) 3. I Am Chosen (Ephesians 1:4) 4. I Am Holy (Ephesians 1:4) 5. I Am Forgiven (Ephesians 1:7) 6. I Am a New Creation (Ephesians 4:22-24) 7. I Am Redeemed (Ephesians 1:7) 8. I Am Worth More Than Gold (Ephesians 1:7) 9. I Am a Child of the Ki...
2024-03-2124 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: 10 Ways We Unintentionally Make Singles Feel Invisible at Church Being single in today's world is hard. Being single in the church today shouldn't be. But there are ways we make singleness harder than it needs to be in the church today. Tom and Scott examine some ways we do that in this week's episode.10 Ways We Unintentionally Make Singles Feel Invisible in the ChurchBy Brenda Rogers, ibelieve.comI dreaded Sunday; it was my least favorite day of the week. I went to church, but not Bible study because there wasn't a class for me. I sat on the pew...
2024-03-1424 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: Dating in the Digital Age-2 Scott and Tom were surprised this topic went two weeks. But it's Tom and Scott, so you never know. This week, the guys get down into surviving dating in the digital age, whether you are just starting dating, or getting back into dating after several years.The Session: Dating Etiquette in a Digital Age by Suzanne Hadley Gosselin, Focus on the Family, from Oct., 2023Texting and online messaging are convenient, but can breed bad habits when it comes to dating.When I (Suzanne) was first getting to know my husband, Kevin, tex...
2024-03-0424 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: Fear of Intimacy We are thrilled when listeners suggest topics for the podcast! We appreciate Theresa suggesting this topic for our podcast this week! You can suggest topics about faith, family, or psychological issues to scott@risefmohio.comThe Session: Suggested by Theresa: Fear of Intimacy & How to Get Passed it John 10:10The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly From Focus on the Family: According to the National Sexual Violence and Resource Center...
2024-02-0824 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: Letting Go of the Hurts of the Past This episode was suggested by Teresa. Tom & Scott would love to discuss topics you suggest about faith and the family. Email scott@risefmohio.com or tom@hccm.gmail.comThe Session: Forgiving And Healing Hurts Of The PastScriptureIsaiah 40:29: “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.”Psalm 147:3: “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. Excerpts From:Dr. Terry Wardle on the Damage of Unresolved Wounds and the Risk and Gifts of Vulnerability Dr. W...
2024-01-2525 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: The Impact of Social Media on Our Kids-part 2 This episode concludes our conversation about the impact social media is having on our kids. Scott and Tom offer hope and ideas for controlling the screen time our kids have. The Session: Social Media’s Impact on our Lives I John 2:16“For all that is in the world - the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life - is not from the Father but is from the world." Because, according to internet safety expert Jesse Weinberger, who surveyed 70,000 students, on average...
2024-01-1924 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: Are You Prepared For Marriage? Maybe you've found "the one". First, congratulations! But, are you READY for marriage? All the feelings may be there. But after the joy of the wedding, a marriage happens. In this episode, Tom & Scott talk about how to know if you are really ready for marriage.The Session: Am I Prepared For Marriage?Psalm 127:1Except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it” (vs. 1). A strong lasting marriage must be based on a relationship with God. (Session will come from Galatians 5:22)
2024-01-0425 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: 5 Steps to a Successful Blended Family-Part 2 As only Tom and Scott can do, they take what was supposed to be a one week episode, and have to turn it in to two. The full notes are here from both episodes. If you have a topic you would like us to cover, please email scott@risefmohio.com.The Session: 5 Tips for Becoming a Blended FamilyRomans 8:15The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, 'A...
2023-11-2324 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: 5 Steps to a Successful Blended Family, part 1 As only Tom and Scott can do, they take what was supposed to be a one week episode, and have to turn it in to two. The full notes are here, and will be repeated on next week's episode.The Session: 5 Tips for Becoming a Blended FamilyRomans 8:15The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, 'Abba, Father.'From Learning to respect the “other wom...
2023-11-1625 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: Balancing Sports & the Christian Family Every family struggles with it. You want to attend church as a family, but there's soccer practice, summer leagues, mid-week practices & more to pull your kids and family out of church. How do you strike a balance?The Session: Managing Sports in the Christian Family1 Corinthians 9: 24-27 says “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize?FOLLOW THE BOUNCING BALL: SPORTS FROM A CHRISTIAN FAMILY PERSPECTIVEBY LAINNA CALLENTINE, MD, MEDHow can parents help their children devel...
2023-11-0225 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: Helping the Pastor's Spouse In this episode, Scott & Tom talk about the unique challenges a Pastor's spouse face. As you think about how to honor your Pastor this Pastor Appreciation Month, consider how you can support your Pastor's spouse.The Session: Helping the Pastor’s Spouse Lord of peace, may You give our pastor(s) and their families peace at all times and in every way (2 Thess. 3:16). Support your spouse without being the assistant pastor.1. Be a loving, supportive spouse2. Do not neglect the training of your children.3. Ta...
2023-10-1924 minThe Session with Tom RussellThe Session: 3 Essential Keys to Thrive in Ministry We are continuing our celebration of Pastor Appreciation Month on the Session with this episode's 3 Essential Keys to Thrive in Ministry. If you have an idea for a topic for us to discuss, please email scott@risefmohio.com!3 Essential Keys to Thrive in Ministry from Loganleadership.comA vital relationship with GodThe first key is, Who’s helping you explore this?· Where do you experience his presence in your life?· Praying scripture can be helpful. Psalm 23:1 “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He...
2023-10-1225 minThe Session with Tom RussellMaintaining a Relationship with a Child Who Has "Left the Faith" There's at least one family in every church, maybe more. One of their children has "left their faith". Some would call them "the prodigal". No matter what you call it, there is hope! And that's what we are sharing today.The Session: 5 Ways to Maintain a Relationship with a Child Who Has Left the FaithFrom Michelle S. Lazurek Romans 8:38-39 (Parents, Rest Assured)For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth...
2023-09-0124 min