Beyond the Surface

To any and all of our listeners, past, present, and future: We want to thank each and every one of you for joining us on this journey. When we began uploading in 2020, we had absolutely no idea what we got ourselves into. We were so uncertain of what to say, how to record, and if anyone would even listen to our show. Over the years, we have been so blessed by every testimony we received. Not only did you encourage us, but many of you also shared episodes with friends or on your stories, which truly meant a lot to us. We didn't do this to gain a following, praises, or approval; however, your love and encouragement gave us motivation and purpose, and we are honored that you would allow us to speak into your lives. Beyond the Surface was one huge step of faith, and we're so grateful to Jesus for giving us this opportunity. We recorded, edited, and uploaded every episode by faith, trusting that He would use our voices in whatever way He desires. Our desire is that you would live your life this very way, trusting Jesus in every step. If you have never made Jesus the Lord of your life, we want to invite you to take that step today. The Bible says if we confess with our mouths & believe in our hearts that Jesus is Lord, we will be saved. If you're ready to make this confession for yourself, we invite you to say this prayer out loud: "Jesus, I believe you are the Son of God. Thank you for coming to this earth and for dying for my sin. I believe your death has forgiven and wiped out all my sin, and I believe you rose again and are alive today. Today, I invite you into my heart, and I surrender full control of all my life. Teach me to walk in your promises and to live a life of significance. Fill my heart with your love, and help me love others the way you've always loved me. From this day forward, my life is yours, and I trust you in every step. Amen." Love you guys, Ezer Gill & Ryan Mergener

As we wrap up our third and final season, we wanted to do a Q&A type of episode, answering questions submitted to us by our listeners, and providing our honest thoughts on various topics of discussion. Having not seen these questions beforehand, the result was a funny, thought-provoking, and challenging conversation on so many levels. We had a great time recording this episode, and we want to thank everyone who submitted their questions to us. Are we capable of singing all the books of the Bible? What does obedience/ walking in faith look like? We answer all these and more in the second part of our Q&A. Some of our answers may surprise you (and us), but regardless, we hope this episode encourages to step out in faith and take God at His word. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

As we wrap up our third and final season, we wanted to do a Q&A type of episode, answering questions submitted to us by our listeners, and providing our honest thoughts on various topics of discussion. Having not seen these questions beforehand, the result was a funny, thought-provoking, and challenging conversation on so many levels. We had a great time recording this episode, and we want to thank everyone who submitted their questions to us. This first part covers questions regarding friends or family who've walked away from God, the greatest challenges future believers will face, and so much more. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

In the Bible, David is the most influential kings in Israel's history. His story is far from perfect, yet there's so much to be learned from his life. This episode is a quick overview of the key parts of David's story. From the time he spent as a shepherd, to his overwhelming success as a king, and even amidst his greatest failures, God's grace is evident throughout his life. We believe you, too, can experience God's faithfulness & mercy, and we hope that you see this through the life of David. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

Ezer was excited to meet with his friend over Zoom to record a short episode on finances & theology. Their "short" episode quickly became a multi-part series that we can't wait for you to hear. We're excited to present Austin Ryder as the latest guest to Beyond the Surface, and we believe his knowledge will help you in both your spiritual and professional growth. For the third and final part, Austin introduced us to the world of theology, where we can begin, and how it can shape our faith. Theology is simply the study of God, and if we want to develop our faith, we will need to grow our understanding of who God is. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

At the last supper, Jesus asked his disciples to break bread and drink wine in remembrance of him. We wanted to talk about the role of remembrance in our daily lives, how looking back at Jesus' sacrifice helps us move forward. We also shared about the times when we've seen God's faithfulness manifest itself, and how important it is to remember our past and learn from our mistakes. Our hope is for you to look back on God's faithfulness, reminding yourself of all the times He carried you throughout your life. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

Ezer was excited to meet with his friend over Zoom to record a short episode on finances & theology. Their "short" episode quickly became a multi-part series that we can't wait for you to hear. We're excited to present Austin Ryder as the latest guest to Beyond the Surface, and we believe his knowledge will help you in both your spiritual and professional growth. This second part covers Austin's practical tips on how to begin investing and growing the funds God has blessed us with. We're honored to know someone with so much knowledge regarding this crucial topic, so we highly recommend taking notes during today's episode. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

Ezer was excited to meet with his friend over Zoom to record a short episode on finances & theology. Their "short" episode quickly became a multi-part series that we can't wait for you to hear. We're honored to present Austin Ryder as the latest guest to Beyond the Surface, and we believe his knowledge will help you in both your spiritual and professional growth. For this first part, Ezer heard Austin's thoughts on what it was like moving to a new area, and the heart behind biblical financial stewardship. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

Social media has become a huge part of today's world. Eloquently described as a tool to some & a trap to others, it's become clear that social media apps are here to stay. In his first solo episode, Ezer wanted to provide his honest thoughts on social media as a whole, why he made the decision to leave it entirely, and how to determine if this might be decision you should consider as well. His desire is not for everyone to do what he did, but rather, to adhere to the unique convictions & calling God places on your life. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

In the second part of our conversation about relationships, we dive into the importance of intentionality in our singleness. We believe singleness is a gift from God, and if we properly steward it, God will not only heal us from the past, but also prepare us for our future. This is a season God made for you to enjoy, and our prayer is for you to live it to its fullest. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

In what might be our most vulnerable episode to date, we cover the area of heartache, breakups, and healing, revealing some of our own past failures, and how God helped us find peace in the middle of it all. This is a sensitive subject that relates to everyone in some way, and our prayer is that you would learn to find healing & strength in Christ alone. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

We are so excited to feature an amazing friend of ours, Hunter Gibbs. This two-part interview allowed us to hear how Hunter came to Christ, and also her thoughts about faith, calling, and culture. We are honored to have Hunter on the podcast, and we can't wait for you to hear the wisdom she has to share. In this second part, Ezer got to hear more of Hunter's story, her thoughts on calling towards ministry, and her views on singleness & security. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

We are so excited to feature an amazing friend of ours, Hunter Gibbs. This two-part interview allowed us to hear how Hunter came to Christ, and also her thoughts about faith, calling, and culture. We are honored to have Hunter on the podcast, and we can't wait for you to hear the wisdom she has to share. For this first part, Ryan interviews Hunter's journey from growing up Catholic, the challenges she faced throughout her life, how she came to know Jesus, and how the Lord placed her in a ministry career. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

Anyone in Christ has been made new - a new name, a new way of life, a new identity. As children of God, we are part of God's family and identify ourselves as separate from this temporary world. But what exactly does this God-given identity entail, and how do we practically live it out? For this episode, we wanted to encourage you to press into what God's word says about you as a son or daughter of God, and the ways you can remind yourself of your identity in Christ. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

Why is it spiritual maturity important for a believer? What does it look like to be a mature believer, and how do we get there? How is the world's view of maturity different from God's? We tackle all these questions and more in this conversation about growing out of our old ways & maturing in our walk with the Lord. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11 NIV The topic of calling has been a recurring theme in this season, and it might be the area our generation needs the most help in. A lot of people today just don't know what they want to do, what God has called them to do, and who they are. We've been there, too, and in today's episode, we wanted to offer our honest advice on how to better discern the life God has called you to live. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

The book of Nehemiah is such an inspiring story in the old testament. Against conspiracy, distraction, and ridicule, one man was able to lead a divine project to rebuild the wall of Jerusalem. For today's episode, we decided to do a quick overview of the story by sharing our most important takeaways. Our hope is to encourage you to dig into Nehemiah's story for yourself, and to find role models in the Bible that you strive to be like. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

Worship - we see this word painted all across the scriptures, and many of us are all too familiar with it. But what is it exactly, and why has God called us to worship? To answer these questions, Ezer invited his friend, Carter Heald, to provide further insight in living out our lives in true worship. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

In this episode, we wanted to talk openly about the ups and downs that we have been through in our faith journeys. As we outline the things we do to maintain consistency in our walk with the Lord, our hope that you are encouraged to get off the rollercoaster faith journey, and embark on the exciting adventure God calls you to. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

There was a time when a good work ethic was honored in our society. Has our generation today lost the concept of hard work? And what role does working hard play in our faith? We sat down to talk through these tough questions, exploring the intersection between hard work & God's grace in our lives Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

Ezer sat down to interview Ryan about his medical school application journey, the challenges he faced along the way, and how Ryan persevered throughout it all. This testimony has been in the making for years, and we can't wait for you to hear of God's faithfulness in Ryan's life. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

In this episode, Ryan interviews Ezer to find out what's been going on in his life lately, how God has been moving and speaking to him, and where he is possibly headed in the future. We believe there is nothing as powerful as a personal testimony. God has been faithful to Ezer, and we can't wait for you to be encouraged by his story. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

In our first episode since taking a long break, we re-introduce ourselves, telling the story about how and why we started this podcast. We are excited to be back after taking almost two years off, and we can't wait for you to join us for all that's in store for our third season of Beyond the Surface. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

Moving to a new city, whether it be temporary or permanent, can be exciting and scary. Some of us have moved many times, while others of us have lived in the same house all their life. For the Season 2 Finale, Ezer sat down with one of his longest and closest friends, Mike Stinchcomb, to reflect on his summer internship. They'll discuss the ways we can sustain ourselves spiritually, emotionally, and physically when we move to a new area. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

We have a lot to learn when it comes to girls. We don't always understand how they feel, why they say things the way they do, and how to help them live a life of significance. So, we decided to invite a returning guest, Brittney Moldovan, to teach us what it means to find your security in the Lord. Although Brittney may be talking from a female point of view, we believe this episode will help both girls AND guys. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

Two of Ezer's best friends, Jacob Tabor and Sy Taylor, were just about to depart towards a new chapter of their lives. Before they left, we made sure to have them for an episode to talk about their favorite memories together. Join us for an honest reflection on what God has done and the great things that can happen once we surround ourselves with godly friends. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

We (Ryan and Ezer) are two completely different personalities. We have different interests and see the world entirely different. In the same way, there are no two humans alike. God made each of uniquely, yet all of us reflect His craftsmanship and His beauty. Today we're discussing what it means to truly embrace your God-given uniqueness, while being open to stretching yourself outside your comfort zone. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

Welcome to the first episode of Beyond the Surface Season 2. After taking some time off, we're back & ready to dive deeper into what God has for our lives. Today we invited our friend Shawn to talk to us about his battle with condemnation, and how to arm ourselves with weapons necessary for spiritual warfare.  Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

What can a scene from Finding Nemo teach us about leadership? Join us as we conclude our leadership discussion. This is the final episode of Beyond the Surface Season 1. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

Leadership drives our whole world, from schools to businesses, governments and churches. People need true leaders to rise & be who God has made them to be. Today we share our thoughts on how to be an effective leader, some funny stories on leadership, and why we believe leadership ties in so closely with our faith in Jesus. This is part 1 of the Season 1 Finale. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

In this episode, we share what life has been like now that things are slowly returning to normal after the COVID shutdown. We also talk about what we've learned throughout quarantine, and an announcement about the podcast.   Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

Is it wrong to want success? What does it mean to live a life of significance? Today we're joined by our guest, Brittney Moldovan, to help us determine what a life of significance looks like. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

Today, we talk about things we are doing during social isolation to maintain an eternal perspective. We also discuss what to do to maintain relationships while on the stay at home order. We believe we can further God's Kingdom, and we want you to take part in making an eternal difference. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

Life is a journey. We want to run the race to get the prize. In this episode, Ryan outlines some of his strategies for improving and growing. "Ultimately, I want to be more like Jesus each and every day. I want to take things one day at a time, and focus on making the most of the opportunities that lie ahead of me today. I want to encourage you all to do the same. To live in pursuit of becoming more like Christ. I want to encourage each of you to work to improve spiritually and in any other area of life that you have the urge to grow in. Where ever you are at in life I believe there is more that God is calling you to!" Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast iX9rIknrFQ

Everybody struggles with loneliness at some point of their life. Whether it's having no one around you, or just feeling like no one sees you, loneliness is something we've all struggled with. In this episode, we share some of our most personal stories about times when we have felt alone, and how God used these seasons to grow and develop our faith. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast

The people you surround yourself with have a large impact on who you become. In our first episode, we offer our advice on who to surround yourself with and where to find friends that are headed in the direction you want to go. We hope you are encouraged, knowing God has people that will have your back and enable you to be the best version of yourself. Follow us: https://linktr.ee/beyondthesurfacepodcast