Shows
Ministry Deep Dive#277 | Exploring God's Mission With Dr. Christopher WrightDr. Christopher J.H. Wright joins Travis to discuss the release of the second edition of his magisterial, "The Mission of God." They explore the evolving understanding of God's mission as articulated through Scripture, emphasising that it extends far beyond the confines of traditional evangelism to encompass a holistic vision for justice, mercy, and redemption within the world. Dr. Wright articulates a comprehensive understanding of the Great Commission, showing that it calls believers to a life of obedience that encompasses all dimensions of existence—spiritual, social, and ethical. This missioholistic approach to discipleship is emphasized throughout the co...
2025-12-181h 12Ministry Deep Dive#276 | Rethinking Ministry: Insights from Craig Bartholomew on Theology and CultureIn today's conversation, Fleming and Bartholomew address the pressing issues facing ministry leaders today, particularly the challenge of navigating a fast-paced cultural landscape that often leaves little room for deep reflection and spiritual formation. Bartholomew draws from his extensive academic background to illustrate how theological education can inform and enrich pastoral practices, while also critiquing the tendency to separate academic inquiry from the lived experience of faith. He shares insights on the importance of cultivating a biblically informed worldview that empowers believers to engage critically with societal issues such as economics and cultural identity. Their discussion encourages...
2025-12-0457 minMinistry Deep Dive#275 | God or Mammon? with David W. SmithThe conversation between Travis and David W. Smith uncovers the often-unspoken yet pervasive power of money—specifically Mammon—in ministry today. Together, they probe how Mammon functions not just as personal greed but as a system, an idolatrous force that flattens spiritual formation and distorts churches as they drift toward a market-shaped theology.Smith traces the historical and theological roots of Mammon, arguing that its influence extends far beyond personal finances and into the very structures of our lives. He warns church leaders of its subtle seduction and calls for communities shaped by loyalty to God rather than...
2025-11-251h 00Ministry Deep Dive#274 | The Most Influential Group In America That Your Church MissesTravis Michael Fleming sits down with Dr. Timothy Tennent for a powerful and eye-opening conversation about one of the most influential—and most overlooked—groups in America today: Indian Hindus.They’re not tucked away on the margins. They’re shaping our culture in boardrooms and in Hollywood, in politics and in tech. From Kash Patel to Vivek Ramaswamy, Mindy Kaling to Kal Penn, Indian Hindus are woven into the fabric of American life. Some practice their faith devoutly; others carry it as part of their cultural story. But their presence—and their influence—is everywhere.Hinduism i...
2025-11-1951 minMinistry Deep Dive#272 | Rediscovering the Core of Christian Faith with Michael GoheenMike Goheen is back! In this episode, Travis sits down with Dr. Mike Goheen to discuss his new book, The Core of the Christian Faith: Living the Gospel for the Sake of the World. Together, they explore the urgent need for the church to broaden its understanding of the Gospel beyond individual salvation, highlighting its profound implications for communal life and cultural engagement. Dr. Goheen presents a vision for discipleship rooted in the full scope of the biblical narrative, showing how a narrow, reductionist view of the Gospel has left the church ill-prepared to confront the idols of contemporary...
2025-11-041h 15Ministry Deep Dive#271 | The Gospel Way Catechism: Equipping the Church for Cultural Engagement with Trevin Wax & Thomas WestToday's conversation is about the modern need for integrating catechism into the discipleship process, particularly in light of the cultural pressures that seek to dilute the essence of the Christian faith. Travis Michael Fleming is joined by Trevin Wax and Thomas West to discuss their new book, The Gospel Way Catechism, as a fresh approach to an ancient practice, aiming to provide believers with a new and relevant framework for understanding their identity in Christ. They emphasize the necessity of countering the dominant narratives of contemporary society with the transformative truths of the gospel. Through their discussion...
2025-10-2854 minMinistry Deep Dive#270 | When Prayer Becomes Real with Kyle StrobelTravis Michael Fleming and Kyle Strobel engage in an enlightening and fun conversation on prayer, delving into its complexities and the common misconceptions that often hinder genuine spiritual connection. Their conversation confronts the barriers that individuals face in their prayer lives, such as feelings of inadequacy and the tendency to approach God with a façade of performance rather than authenticity. Kyle emphasizes that prayer should not be viewed as a chore or a checklist item, but as a vital means of fostering a relationship with God, wherein one can present their true self, including d...
2025-10-2158 minMinistry Deep Dive#269 | The Cultural Obsolescence of Religion: A Deep Dive with Christian Smith, Pt. 2Travis Michael Fleming and Dr. Christian Smith continue their conversation on Dr. Smith's latest book, Why Religion Went Obsolete. They discuss how the decline of American traditional religion (i.e. Christianity) is not attributable to a singular cause but rather a confluence of multifaceted cultural, social, and technological transformations that collectively create a "converging perfect storm." Throughout their conversation, they explore the historical context of these changes, elucidating how shifts in family dynamics, the rise of neoliberal capitalism, and the impact of digital technology have redefined the religious landscape. They then discuss how...
2025-10-1447 minMinistry Deep Dive#268 | The Cultural Obsolescence of Religion: A Deep Dive with Christian Smith, Pt. 1In an insightful and thought-provoking dialogue, Travis Michael Fleming and Dr. Christian Smith tackle the contentious issue of why traditional religion appears to be losing its grip on American society. Drawing from Dr. Smith's extensive research, the conversation reveals a stark reality: traditional faith is not only declining but has become culturally obsolete. The discussion frames this obsolescence within the context of significant cultural transformations that have rendered conventional religious practices less relevant to contemporary life. Dr. Smith articulates the difference between mere statistical decline and the broader cultural implications of obsolescence, arguing that the perceptions surrounding...
2025-10-0726 minMinistry Deep Dive#267 | Faith, Politics, and the American Identity: Navigating Christian Nationalism with Paul D. Miller, Pt. 2Travis Michael Fleming and Dr. Paul D. Miller engage in a thought-provoking dialogue concerning the intricate dynamics of Christian nationalism and its implications for contemporary ministry. The face the difficult question on the necessity for Christians to thoughtfully navigate the political landscape without succumbing to tribalism, particularly in light of the alarming statistic that 80% of pastors feel ill-equipped to address political and civic engagement. Dr. Miller gives some helpful and crucial distinctions, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging legitimate grievances while maintaining a critical stance against the co-opting of the Gospel for political ends. As we...
2025-09-3040 min
Wellness in Asheville: Eat Well. Move Well. Be Well.13 - Unlocking Vibrational Astrology for Real-Life Clarity & Growth with Michael SpremulliSend us a textSeason 1, Episode 13: Unlocking Vibrational Astrology for Real-Life Clarity & Growth with Michael SpremulliIn this episode of the Wellness in Asheville Podcast, I sit down with Michael Spremulli—consulting astrologer, educator, and specialist in Vibrational Astrology (VA). Michael breaks down how VA moves beyond horoscope hype with modern, evidence-based analysis to reveal how energy patterns shape your decisions, relationships, and business.We explore the science behind vibrational astrology, examine how real energetic structures can illuminate your core drives, and discuss why this approach is re...
2025-09-291h 02Ministry Deep Dive#266 | Faith, Politics, and the American Identity: Navigating Christian Nationalism with Paul D. Miller, Pt. 1In their insightful discussion on Christian nationalism, Travis Michael Fleming and Paul D. Miller explore the complex relationship between faith and politics in America, highlighting Dr. Miller's latest book, The Religion of American Greatness: What's Wrong with Christian Nationalism. They critically examine the claim that America is a Christian nation, unpacking its historical and ideological roots. Drawing on his scholarly expertise, Miller distinguishes between a cultural understanding of Christianity in America and the political ideology that seeks to legislate that identity.Throughout the conversation, Fleming and Miller confront the ways blending faith with nationalism can distort the...
2025-09-2547 minMinistry Deep Dive#264 | Sanctifying Suburbia: How Suburbia is Shaping Your Faith with Brian J. MillerTravis Michael Fleming engages in a thoughtful conversation with Brian J. Miller about his influential book, Sanctifying Suburbia. Together, they explore the complex relationship between evangelical faith and the cultural dynamics of suburban life, emphasizing how the environments we inhabit profoundly shape our beliefs and practices. Miller highlights that suburbs, often seen as mere backdrops, carry embedded assumptions about race, class, and culture—assumptions that have historically shaped evangelical expressions of faith, sometimes in ways that stray from the gospel’s call to justice and inclusivity. As these suburban landscapes continue to change, becoming more dive...
2025-09-091h 03Ministry Deep Dive#263 | Platforms to Pillars: How Do We Survive in a Platform Society? with Mark SayersTravis Michael Fleming and Mark Sayers do a cultural apologetic deep dive into one of the structures influencing church today and how we have become a platform society. They discuss Sayers' book, "Platforms to Pillars," which examines the evolving nature of leadership in the modern world. They start off their conversation with an eye-opening revelation from a United Nations report indicating that 60% of people globally feel dissatisfied with their lives, presenting a paradox as other indicators show progress in living standards. This phenomenon introduces the concept of the 'platform pain point,' where the pursuit of visibility through digital...
2025-09-021h 02Ministry Deep Dive#262 | Revitalizing Leadership: The Impact of Joy and Maturity in Ministry with Marcus Warner, Pt. 2Travis Michael Fleming and Marcus Warner delve into the intricate dimensions of Rare Leadership, underscoring that true leadership is predicated on emotional maturity and relational health. They contend that the prevailing paradigm of leadership, often characterized by charisma and performance metrics, must be supplanted by a model that prioritizes emotional resilience and relational integrity. Throughout their dialogue, they elucidate the imperative of remaining relational, particularly in times of crisis, and advocate for cultivating joy within communities rather than succumbing to fear or guilt. This conversation serves as a profound exploration of how leaders can transform their environments by embodying...
2025-08-261h 07
The Average Sucks ShowThe TRUTH About MARKETING Most Entrepreneurs Miss | The Average Sucks Show w/ guest Travis BradyWhat if your brand matters more than your bank account?In this episode of The Average Sucks Show, Michael Bernoff sits down with entrepreneur, identity coach, and branding expert Travis Brady for a conversation that will challenge everything you think you know about marketing and business growth.If you’ve ever felt stuck in your business... if the strategies aren’t working... or if you're tired of playing small—this is the wake-up call.Travis breaks down why your identity is the foundation of your b...
2025-08-221h 13Ministry Deep Dive#261 | Revitalizing Leadership: The Impact of Joy and Maturity in Ministry with Marcus Warner, Pt. 1The conversation between Travis Michael Fleming and Dr. Marcus Warner centers around the principles delineated in their book, "Rare Leadership," which emphasizes the paramount importance of joy and maturity in effective leadership. They elucidate how the absence of joy leads to a toxic atmosphere in organizational settings, particularly within churches, resulting in high staff turnover and a culture driven by fear. The speakers articulate that true leadership thrives on relational dynamics, wherein leaders remain relational, act authentically, and foster an environment of joy, even amidst adversity. By advocating for these principles, they aim to cultivate communities that embody resilience...
2025-07-3037 minMinistry Deep Dive#260 | We Need Each Other: A Conversation with Jim Wilder on the Rediscovery of Relationships in the Christian Life, Pt. 2In the final segment, the discussion shifts towards practical applications of these concepts within church leadership and congregational life. Wilder introduces the RARE leadership framework—remaining relational, acting like oneself, returning to joy, and enduring hardship—as a strategy for leaders to navigate the complexities of ministry. This framework serves as a guide for maintaining authenticity and fostering resilience amidst the pressures of church leadership. Fleming and Wilder conclude their conversation by highlighting the transformative potential of embracing neurotheological insights in ministry, urging leaders to prioritize relational health and spiritual well-being. They encourage listeners to explore resources such as Wild...
2025-07-231h 02Ministry Deep Dive#259 | We Need Each Other: A Conversation with Jim Wilder on the Rediscovery of Relationships in the Christian Life, Pt. 1Travis Michael Fleming and Jim Wilder discuss the intricacies of spiritual formation and how our relationships (i.e. attachments) affect how we live and what we believe. Together, they examine how our understanding of God, ourselves, and our interactions with others shapes our spiritual landscapes. Wilder invites us to reconsider the foundational elements of our faith, arguing that while theological correctness is a necessity, it is our relational dynamics that shape our spiritual identity. This framework emphasizes the importance of community (i.e. church) and shared life experiences as catalysts for growth, and how our...
2025-07-0849 minMinistry Deep Dive#258 | Exploring the Depths of the Christian Imagination: A Conversation with Malcolm Guite, Pt. 2Travis Michael Fleming and Malcolm Guite continue their conversation on the Christian imagination. They explore the historical context of imagination within Christian thought, tracing its evolution from the Enlightenment to the present day. They discuss how figures like Coleridge and Kant influenced our understanding of imagination, positing that imagination is a necessary faculty for discerning meaning and beauty in a world often perceived as grim. By recovering a 'sacred way of seeing', the hosts challenge listeners to cultivate their imagination, suggesting that creativity and artistry are not just ancillary to faith but central to living out the Christian narrative...
2025-07-0154 minMinistry Deep Dive#257 | Exploring the Depths of the Christian Imagination: A Conversation with Malcolm Guite, Pt. 1Travis Michael Fleming and Malcolm Guite's conversation offers a rich exploration of the Christian imagination and its pivotal role in spiritual life and cultural discourse. Guite reflects on his transformative experiences with poetry, particularly the impact of John Keats on his understanding of beauty and transcendence. He emphasizes the necessity of imagination in articulating the complexities of faith, suggesting that it allows believers to navigate the intricacies of existence with a renewed perspective. By engaging with literature and the arts, Guite argues, individuals can discover a deeper connection to the divine, fostering a sense of wonder and awe. This...
2025-06-2443 minMinistry Deep Dive#256 | From the Archives-Revisiting the Wisdom of C.S. Lewis for Imagination in Ministry, Pt 2Travis Michael Fleming and Jerry Root delve into the inspiring legacy of C.S. Lewis, particularly as it pertains to the realm of evangelism. They discuss how Lewis, despite his scholarly acumen, possessed a unique ability to communicate complex theological concepts in an accessible manner, thereby inviting individuals from various backgrounds to engage with the Christian faith. Root emphasizes that each believer is called to be an ambassador for Christ, underlining the imperative nature of evangelism in the life of every Christian, regardless of their specific gifts or vocations. Through their discussion, they share...
2025-06-1246 minMinistry Deep Dive#255 | From the Archives-Revisiting the Wisdom of C.S. Lewis for Imagination in MinistryTravis Michael Fleming and Jerry Root engage in a conversation on the intersections of C.S. Lewis's literary imagination and the practice of evangelism. Central to their discussion is the assertion that Lewis's imaginative prowess facilitates the understanding of complex theological concepts, making them accessible to a broader audience. Root explores how Lewis employs narrative and metaphor to penetrate the defenses of skepticism, thus allowing individuals to encounter the divine in compelling and transformative ways. They explore the implications of fostering a Christian imagination within contemporary culture, arguing that such creativity can revitalize evangelistic efforts and deepen one's faith...
2025-06-0335 minMinistry Deep Dive#254 | Understanding the Modern Mission Field: Insights on Ministry and DiscipleshipJoin the Blueprint Cohort – Starting May 28!Are you ready to go deeper in your faith and discover how to live out God's Kingdom in today's world?Sign up for the Blueprint Cohort, a 5-week guided journey through Blueprint: Kingdom Living in the Modern World. We’ll meet Wednesdays from 12–1 PM ET, starting May 28 via Zoom.🗓 Meeting Dates:May 28June 4June 11June 18June 25Whether you're a pastor, leader, or simply hungry to grow, this cohort is designed to refresh, equip, and encourage you.👉 Sign-Up Link Here!Spots are limited...
2025-05-2045 minMinistry Deep Dive#253 | Why You Can’t Follow Jesus Alone: Rediscovering the Power of Christian CommunityJoin the Blueprint Cohort – Starting May 28!Are you ready to go deeper in your faith and discover how to live out God's Kingdom in today's world?Sign up for the Blueprint Cohort, a 5-week guided journey through Blueprint: Kingdom Living in the Modern World. We’ll meet Wednesdays from 12–1 PM ET, starting May 28 via Zoom.🗓 Meeting Dates:May 28June 4June 11June 18June 25Whether you're a pastor, leader, or simply hungry to grow, this cohort is designed to refresh, equip, and encourage you.👉 Sign-Up Link Here!Spots are limited...
2025-05-1339 minMinistry Deep Dive#251 | Fixing Our Evangelism: 4 Ways to Reclaim the Great CommissionThe primary focus of this podcast episode is the evolving nature of evangelism and discipleship in light of contemporary cultural shifts, as articulated in Travis Michael Fleming's book, "Blueprint: Kingdom Living in the Modern World". The discussion emphasizes that traditional methods of evangelism, once effective in a more monocultural context, are now inadequate due to the increasing pluralism brought about by globalization. As we engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds who may not possess a foundational understanding of Christianity, we must reconsider our approach to sharing the gospel. The episode further explores how the Great Commission should be understood...
2025-04-2354 minMinistry Deep Dive#250 | Navigating the Crisis: A Blueprint for Church RenewalTravis Michael Fleming embarks on a profound exploration of his book, Blueprint: Kingdom Living in the Modern World, addressing the prevailing crisis within evangelicalism. He articulates a sobering assessment of the current state of the church, underlining the alarming statistics that indicate a significant exodus from church attendance, quantified at over 40 million individuals in recent years. Fleming references notable thinkers such as Russell Moore and Trevin Wax, who emphasize that the church is simultaneously experiencing both a crisis and an opportunity for renewal. He postulates that this moment of upheaval necessitates a re-evaluation of traditional practices and beliefs, advocating...
2025-04-0821 minMinistry Deep Dive#249 | Exploring the Depths of Scripture: The Importance of the Whole Story with Christopher J.H. Wright, Pt. 2Travis Michael Fleming and Christopher J.H. Wright engage in a profound discourse concerning the implications of Chris' book, "The Great Story and the Great Commission". Central to their conversation is the assertion that the Great Commission must not merely be perceived as a task to be completed, but rather as an enduring invitation to partake in God's ongoing narrative of redemption. They elucidate the daunting reality that a significant portion of the global population remains unaware of the Christian faith, emphasizing the necessity for sustained commitment to evangelism and discipleship. As they navigate the complexities of leadership within...
2025-04-0133 minMinistry Deep Dive#248 | Exploring the Depths of Scripture: The Importance of the Whole Story with Christopher J.H. Wright, Pt. 1In this enlightening episode of "Those Who Serve the Lord," Travis Michael Fleming engages Christopher J.H. Wright in a thought-provoking discussion that centers around the latter's book, The Great Story and the Great Commission. The discourse emphasizes the importance of a coherent understanding of the biblical narrative, which is essential for effective ministry and discipleship. Wright articulates how the biblical story is not merely a historical account but a living narrative that frames the entirety of Christian life and mission. He contends that the Great Commission is fundamentally about shaping disciples who are informed by this grand narrative...
2025-03-2529 minMinistry Deep Dive#247 | Building Unity Amid Polarization: Calling You Deeper Than Media Headlines with James Davison Hunter, Pt. 2Travis Michael Fleming engages in a profound dialogue with Dr. James Davison Hunter regarding the pressing themes articulated in Hunter's seminal work, "Democracy & Solidarity: The Roots of America's Political Crisis". Central to their discourse is the assertion that genuine political change is inextricably linked to the deeper structures of culture, which politics alone cannot transform. As they navigate through the complexities of American political culture and its pervasive polarization, they underscore a critical inquiry: why have political solutions often faltered in effecting lasting change? Hunter elucidates the distinction between superficial activism and profound cultural transformation, advocating for a more...
2025-03-1852 minMinistry Deep Dive#246 | Building Unity Amid Polarization: Calling You Deeper Than Media Headlines with James Davison Hunter, Pt. 1In this episode, Travis Michael Fleming sits down with Dr. James Davison Hunter to unpack the deep fractures in our political and cultural landscape—fractures that don’t just divide Republicans and Democrats but also cut through the pews of our churches. How can Christian leaders navigate these landmine differences without blowing up their churches or losing their way?Dr. Hunter, the author of Democracy and Solidarity, brings profound insight into how culture is formed, how power is wielded, and why our current moment feels so divisive. We’ll discuss the cultural forces shaping our worldview, the tensio...
2025-03-1148 minMinistry Deep Dive#245 | The Art of Living in Season with Sylvie VanhoozerThe more we are online, the more disembodied we are. As Christians, we want to be rooted in a time and in a place. In The Art of Living in Season, Sylvie Vanhoozer invites readers to join this community of little saints and to follow them not only at Christmas but also throughout the whole year. Each chapter introduces a new santon (little saint) and opens up another aspect of our annual pilgrimage toward Christ. Structured as weekly reflections and illustrated with Vanhoozer's own botanical illustrations, this book invites us to follow Christ in our own places and seasons...
2024-11-2643 min
The Management Theory ToolboxEpisode 14: Mastering Extinction: How to Stop Reinforcing Bad Behavior at Work with Dr. Michael DomjanEpisode Highlights:Introduction to the concept of extinction in behavioral psychology.Explanation of operant conditioning and its application in the workplace.Examples from "The Big Bang Theory" illustrating positive reinforcement and extinction.Detailed discussion with Dr. Michael Domjan on the process and effects of extinction.Real-world examples of applying extinction to undesirable workplace behaviors.The importance of careful implementation to avoid frustration and aggression.Key Topics:Operant Conditioning: Modifying behavior through reinforcement.Extinction: Reducing behaviors by removing positive reinforcers.Paradoxical Reward Effects: How intermittent reinforcement can lead to greater persistence.Practical Tips...
2024-08-0230 minMinistry Deep Dive#243 | The Spirit of Our Politics with Michael Wear, Pt. 2In this second conversation with Michael Wear, Travis and Michael continue discussing his book, The Spirit of Our Politics: Spiritual Formation and the Renovation of Public Life. Travis and Michael discuss abortion, same-sex marriage, partisan politics, how politics is spiritually forming us, political exhaustion, helplessness, Dallas Willard, and so much more. Michael Wear is the Founder, President, and CEO of the Center for Christianity and Public Life, a nonpartisan, nonprofit institution based in the nation's capital with the mission to contend for the credibility of Christian resources in public life, for the public good. For well over...
2024-06-2453 minMinistry Deep Dive#242 | The Spirit of Our Politics with Michael Wear, Pt. 1We are in the political season and every election cycle, we hear that there is so much at stake and that this election is the most important ever. We hear about one scandal or another, and we hear about the issues (which are extremely important), but it's gotten to the point where it is a zero-sum game, and Christians are being used to engage in politics in a way that denigrates their testimony and sacrifices the content of their faith. Is there a way to protect life and honor Jesus at the same time? Michael Wear has an idea.
2024-06-2156 min