Men's Leadership Network Podcast

In this final episode, our guest host, John Simons, interviews Pastor Jeff, as we celebrate and draw to a close the MLN podcast. Pastor Jeff discusses all that he's learned through the 6+ years of recording the podcast, the importance of building relationships with many of the guests, and how to keep growing as a leader. As a senior pastor, there is no shortage of leadership opportunities and the stress that can follow it. Yet, God is always there to take refuge in and learn by being in the Word.

In this month's episode, Pastor Jeff sits down with Patrick Holcombe to expand on his section of the Versus 'Lead' curriculum, Where Are You Called to Lead? As a successful business owner, Patrick has had the opportunity to lead in his workplace, but he also speaks to being a spiritual leader in all facets of life! 

In this month's episode, Pastor Jeff sits down with 'Captain Canada' Ryan Smyth to discuss last nights Versus Conference and his amazing story. From growing up in Canada, to his time in the NHL and his families recent relocation to the Nashville area, Ryan is the epitome of giving your success over to the Lord. Growing up, Ryan was always a talented athlete, but he knew something was missing. As he shared last night at Versus, the void of Jesus led to a lot of brokeness. Ryan put his life and worth in his identity as a hockey player, and at times forgot his identity in Christ. This episode is his story of transformation and leaving a Jesus centered legacy. 

As men, our tendency is to walk through life in isolation. Work, busyness, and home responsibilities can get in the way and cause us to neglect one of our most important needs: each other. At Versus, our goal is for all men to do life together. That's why our motto is Don't Go Alone! 

In this month's episode, Pastor Jeff sits down with Nic Allen, Rolling Hills' Nashville Campus Pastor. They dive into the topic of tragedy, and how we, as Christians, should respond to it. In lieu of last week's events at Covenant School in Nashville, Pastor Jeff felt the need to address such an important topic. Today, Good Friday, is a day Christians recognize as the darkest day in history. However, sharing the hope we have in Jesus in a dark and broken world is our number one goal. Sunday is coming! One super helpful tool included in this month's podcast is a step-by-step plan for tragedy response. The guys talk about how important it is to properly disclose hard-to-share information based on age and maturity level. As men, our families will respond to future tragedies by how we lead now. No matter what, we should all be ready to step forward and shout from the rooftops, “God is still sovereign!” You do not want to miss this incredible episode! 

In this month's episode, Pastor Jeff sits down with Bob Ravener, successful businessman and author of his new book, Up! The Difference in Today and Tomorrow is You. Bob has worked in some of the worlds most notable and successful businesses: Starbucks, Home Depot, Pepsi Co., and Dollar General, and he has so much wisdom on life, struggles and facing adversityGrowing up, Bob faced an unthinkable number of challenges. From having two alcoholic parents and being one of five siblings, Bob had to grow up fast. At 15, they lost their home and all had to separate and live with friends. A few years later, the Naval Academy accepted Bob, propelling him forward to his successful business career. As you can tell, Bob has a story you wont want to miss! 

In this month's episode, Pastor Jeff sits down with three amazing women from our staff: Women's Director Miranda Kokes, Digital Engagement Director Chloe Haddad, and Kathy Koon, our awesome Staff Counselor. With Valentine's Day coming up, the ladies share with us "what women want" in a man.  Each of these women have different years of marriage experience, and there is something to be gained from all three. Make sure to listen to this month's episode to find out how to best serve your spouse or loved ones!

In this months episode, Pastor Jeff sits down with longtime friend and mentor Larry Atema. Larry is full of wisdom and has been serving Rolling Hills behind the scenes since its creation. Larry is the CEO of Commonwealth Development Group, the company that headed construction of the Music City Center, Ascend Amphitheater, and many other special projects in downtown Nashville.  Larry has a passion for faithfully following God's call in your own way. Larry loves building management and acquisition, and through this passion helped Pastor Jeff acquire "The Warehouse," where Rolling Hills Franklin currently resides. We are so happy Larry joined us to kick off 2023! 

Today's episode features an awesome conversation with actor Jesse Hutch! Jesse has been in a ton of movies and television shows and he's an awesome man of God. He is super passionate about his faith, and he loves sharing Jesus with everyone he comes across.  Often, Jesse works on set with the lost, and he feels like God uses him to reach people in Hollywood and beyond through the screen. While he may act as characters on TV, Jesse doesn't want his faith to be an act. He wants to be authentic and live his life just as God called him to.

Today's episode features a wonderful conversation with John Simons, the new Men's & Sports Pastor at Rolling Hills! John comes to us from Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, CA where he previously oversaw Men's and Community groups. John is passionate about helping men grow in spiritual maturity/leadership and excited to work hands on with the Versus Conference and creating a disciple-making culture with the men of Rolling Hills. John is a big believer in the fact that if you reach the man, you eventually get the whole family. In this episode, John talks about how he plans to help move Rolling Hills men toward better spiritual leadership in their homes, workplace, and community.

Today's episode features a wonderful conversation with Mike Minter, founder of Reston Bible Church and Associate Teaching Pastor at Rolling Hills. Mike founded RBC in 1975, and it has grown into a congregation of 2,300 people today. He is married to his wife Kay, and they have four children.  Mike has worked hands on with men for many years, and he is really passionate about helping them grow in their wisdom. Wisdom is not something that comes naturally, but rather over tons of years and through a plethora of experiences. After starting his church 47 years ago, Mike had a goal of helping men grow wisdom by being Godly leaders in Church and with their families and friends. 

To start, Chase shares his powerful testimony with the listeners. He was invited to a fellowship event in his hometown of Fountain, Colorado and he immediately felt God pulling on his heart. The message that night was on salvation, and it couldn't have been more relevant for him. At the center of his story was the simple act of invitation, and it was Chase's neighbor that had invited him to the event. His life hasn't been the same since.Later, Chase speaks on the successes of this life and how nothing compares to the eternal glory we will one day experience in heaven. It's no secret Chase was successful in his profession. He reached the pinnacle of baseball, the major leagues. But, when going up through the minors he realized this: earthly things don't satisfy us. Chase spoke specifically on the next promotion and the next pay increase and how it's wonderful, but ultimately nothing compared to the fulfillment we find in Christ. Pastor Jeff and Chase also discuss the ups and downs of careers and how certain seasons are more bountiful than others. Keeping God first through it all is vital to being a strong Christ-follower. When Chase was traded from the Padres to the Yankees, his world turned upside down. His city changed, teammates changed, and life as a whole changed. But through this season of transition, it was apparent God was working all things for good. The trade gave Chase more people to minister to and allowed for fresh perspective. Finally, Chase speaks to men about how to leave a legacy that puts Christ above all else. As men, we are called to be the leaders of our home. We are able to put a Godly perspective on every aspect of our families lives, and Chase speaks about how he does this with his boys. In a specific example, Chase talks about how time in the deer stand has influenced his boys' walks with the Lord.We hope you take the 30 minutes to listen to this month's podcast! It's a great one with so many powerful messages that we hope will encourage you to lead your family in pursuit of a Christ-centered life. 

To begin, Jason shares the story of his upbringing and how he came to faith and eventually caught fire for the Lord. At the center of this faith journey is the story of a miraculous conversation with a stranger at church. Jason then unpacks the feeling that many men have about their personal faith journey because they don't have a dramatic story of salvation, and how and why men should change how they see their path to the Lord.Later, Jeff and Jason talk about the act of rationalization, and how men allow themselves to use it to justify sin and spiritual complacency in their lives. As a lawyer, Jason assures us he can rationalize a lot of things, but he would agree that not everything we can do is something we should do. Excuses are cheap, but acting upon the wisdom of the Bible is worth so much to our families and our relationship with God. Jason explains how there's no better way to keep yourself accountable to biblical living than spending life in community. The pair also discuss the importance of prioritizing time. Do you know how many times Scripture shows us that spiritual leaders of the Bible got up early in the morning? The first step of your day sets the tone. There are tempting reports to check in the morning: work emails, national news, sports scores. But, how could our lives be different if we spent those first few minutes centered on what Jesus has to say?And of course, for sports fans, Jason tells of the lessons he's learned from coaching children at baseball, including what he means by the phrase, Look like a ballplayer! If teams and camaraderie are important for kids, what reason do we have to believe they're not important for grown men, too? We hope you'll find half an hour to listen to this month's podcast, and that you'll consider getting plugged into a men's group through Rolling Hills if you haven't already.

Diego is a husband and a father of three children, and he knows that those are the roles that come first in his life. But, for a week this summer, Diego did the unthinkable: he stepped up from serving his three to the church's 300. The biggest focus of his conversation with Jeff is on that decision to consistently serve, whether it's on a busy sunny day at Beach Week, or a less-than-glorious freezing Sunday morning in January. Together, Jeff and Diego unpack some of the most common roadblocks that keep men from serving more in their church community. Then, Diego gives advice on how he was able to overcome those excuses that he once made for himself, and he shares how serving others has blessed him with amazing relationships and a sense of purpose. Diego doesn't just keep his faith to his church family, either. As a Clinical Research Manager, he regularly prays with his team members. Depending on your personal experiences, you might fervently agree with him when he says that prayer is frowned upon in corporate America. As Christians, we are called to live boldly and to be a light in a broken and fallen world. But, increasingly, it may seem like having a public faith could risk your reputation and even your job. Diego's words will bring encouragement to anyone who feels tension in their workplace because of their faith. For Diego, every day is an opportunity to model a Christian life for others. He'd be the first to tell you that it's not always fun to get up early and stay late serving – but we aren't ultimately doing it because it's fun. If it weren't a sacrifice, it wouldn't be serving. It's not always easy and safe to proclaim the truth and to share Jesus outside the walls of a church, but there are people who need to hear it. Our families and neighbors see what we say and do, and for them, we are ambassadors for Christ. In the long run, choosing to be bold and selfless for the sake of Christ will never be something we regret. We hope you'll choose to listen into this inspiring conversation, as you continue to refine and live out your own answer to that big question. 

The Bible is chock-full of examples of other men gathering together and calling on each other to do the things that they do as they imitate Christ. So, we, too, have opportunities each day to surround ourselves with Godly men who set the kind of example in their walk that we need.Men came from all over to attend Versus, and God put them there for a reason. He used Versus to call men to determine the next steps to grow in their faith. Or, maybe even to call men to Himself for the first time. There was such a response to the message that was shared that dozens of men walked down in front of the crowd to announce their acceptance of Jesus as Lord and Savior of their life. Seeing other men and hearing the stories they shared of the struggles and victories they've had in Christ is powerful. It's something that can happen in everyday conversations.As Tim Tebow stated, he has a platform, and, rather than use it for selfish desires, he chooses to use it for the glory of God. We know that Scripture tells us the things of this world will return empty. So, in examining your life in this context, what is your purpose? Like many men, do you find you identity in your job, money, or success? When you do that and something happens to throw that off-kilter, it can feel like your whole world is crashing down. That's why we are told to seek first the kingdom of God.So, what are the next steps after Versus?  Don't Go Alone – You may not know it, but there is power in walking with other men. Oftentimes, it isn't until you have community that you realize how much stronger your walk can be than it is on your own.  Take a Habit Inventory – Look where you are devoting your time (e.g. social media, sports, Netflix, etc.). What spiritual habits are you practicing, or could you practice, instead? Spend Time with God – Be in the Word and in prayer – everyday. Not because you have to, but because you get to. We have an opportunity and are equipped to handle the things of this life by a God who loves us and wants to spend time with us. Take full advantage of this one-of-a-kind relationship.  If you don't know where to start, we've created a unique curriculum you can find below. Find some men to go through it with you and learn about the Weapons of War that God provided to help us in the battle.

The Versus 22 Men's Conference was an awesome time! In today's episode, Jeff sits down with Grammy-Award Winning artist, Shay Mooney, to recap the evening. Plus, Shay shares his story of small-town beginnings and a lifelong walk with Christ. Shay's insights on fatherhood, the challenges of being a man, and the insufficiency of money and status are full of wisdom and built from experience. Whether or not you were able to attend Versus 22, this episode is for you. Shay identifies a whole host of challenges men experience in life, whether they know it or not. Comparison. Criticism. Sexual immorality. Anxiety. Stress. A big step toward improving ourselves as men is recognizing these problems and being vulnerable enough to share them with others. Being a man doesn't mean that you will never struggle. Being a man means acknowledging the difficulties we face and addressing them and bringing them to God and to the people God's put in our lives. Because when men handle troubles well, it helps their marriages, kids, and community. A fantastic opportunity to start to build a fellowship of guys is to get together for our five-week post-Versus Bible Study. You don't need to have been to the conference to participate, because our curriculum is designed to stand alone. This is a chance to build on the ideas we introduced at Versus 22 and reach out to any men in your life who couldn't attend. We'll provide all the materials you need — you just need to ask other men to join you. It's no big deal to ask a group of guys to watch sports or go fishing. Why not ask them to come together to grow in faith? As Shay suggests, if you just ask, they'll probably say yes... Although some coffee and food could really seal the deal! As the episode wraps up, you'll hear Shay's main takeaways he wants to share with you. Hear about what happens when you surrender to yourself and give things over to God. Shay tells us how things change in our lives when we choose to serve others and follow God even when we don't feel like it. The things you like to do don't have to be done on purpose. But, doing the things you need to do — even when it's not easy — is what makes a man faithful. Lastly, hear Shay's answer to the question that's become a tradition for the MLN podcast: what do you want your legacy to be? It's an important question for us all to answer, and we hope you're forming your answer and building that legacy as you continue to follow our monthly podcast. 

For today's interview, we've brought in Jacob Scrimpshire, the Discipleship Pastor, and Chase Baker, the Family Pastor, from Rolling Hills to hear their thoughts on Easter and understanding the magnitude of this event. Well, we can start with recognizing what this event, this holiday, really means. Jesus, the perfect, sinless Son of God, died a sinner's death on a cross. On Easter, we celebrate that this very same Jesus rose from the dead – all so that we, His children, could be cleansed once and for all for our sins. So, that means, if you really believe Jesus is who He says He is, your perspective should be changed. No longer is Easter about the bunny or the eggs, it's about the forgiveness we received, the grace of our kind Father, and the magnitude of our sins. Though the Easter bunny and egg hunts are not wrong or bad, we simply must – as men, as parents, as husbands, as leaders – bring the focus back to the empty tomb… back to Jesus. Always.Ultimately, the Easter story is the greatest story ever told. And, if we believe that to be true, why would we not want our kids, our families, and our coworkers to know this story more than any other story? Jacob and Chase share with us about what it means to tell the Easter story, both to yourself and to others. First, read the story yourself! Read it for the first time, or be reminded of it, and read what Jesus went through for you. Read of the hope of this story. Then, share the story with others. Talk about the story throughout this season, and use it as a means of inviting someone to an Easter service or event with you.In today's podcast, Jacob and Chase also share several practical tips on how you can make Easter traditions with your kids, how you can pray during this season, and how you can prioritize what matters most. Men, this podcast is one that will both equip you with the tools you need, as well as encourage you with a reminder of why Easter can truly change your life – and how Jesus, in one act, changed humanity for the rest of time. Listen today. 

This month, we've flipped the mic around and have Rolling Hills Senior Pastor Jeff Simmons be our guest on the podcast! Jeff is a father of three girls, one middle schooler and two high schoolers. He knows how complicated and challenging parenthood can be, especially with all the other demands on our time and energy. Today, he's sharing strategies to model and encourage Godly living and a love of Jesus in our little ones, so we can look back on our lives and know we invested in what matters most. As fathers we are called to be the primary disciplers of our children – but we can't be with them all the time. Sometimes we allow our children to go out into the world and to learn from teachers at school and coaches on the field. We let them spend their time with friends and their friends' families, and at extracurricular activities. It's okay to get a break from our kids! But, it's important to take responsibility in planning the experiences that influence them, both while we're in the room and while they're on their own.These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates (Deuteronomy 6:6-9).The instructions for parenting we find in Deuteronomy make it clear: our love of God should be woven into our homes and present in even the mundane activities of our day. Following God as a family should become a habit! Jeff's advice points to a need to be intentional about establishing that habit from birth to young adulthood and everywhere in between. The little details and moments we are given matter, and they all are opportunities from our God we must steward to make an edifying impact in the lives of our children. Being the leader of a household is a calling which demands having our priorities straight. Jeff Simmons wants his legacy to be that of someone who pursued God's purpose for his life. He wants for all of us to be people who invest our lives in what really matters. How do God, your spouse, your children, and your job rank in your life? And how should they rank, and why? If we can get that answer right and begin to live that way, we'll all be on our way to being better fathers and followers of Christ. Listen into our conversation with Jeff this week as we talk about our ongoing journey to be Godly, effective fathers.

Announcement: Our Versus Men's Conference is returning May 5 and we're excited to have Tim Tebow joining us as our keynote speaker! The event will be held at the Williamson County Ag EXPO Center arena in Franklin, TN. You can find more details and get your tickets when they go on sale Feb. 9 at VersusConference.com. Show Notes:Now celebrating their 17th year of marriage, Chris and Jenni Graebe have paid close attention to the rhythms which have led to successful marriages around them, and God has called them to share these helpful insights in their new book, The Rhythm of Us.Marriage is one of God's greatest gifts. It is God's foundation for bringing new life into the world and building strong families. When things are going well, our marriage with our spouse is fulfilling, edifying, and life-giving. Each spouse puts the other's needs before their own, serving one another as they grow closer to God. The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” – Genesis 2:18Two are better than one,    because they have a good return for their labor:If either of them falls down,    one can help the other up.But pity anyone who falls    and has no one to help them up. – Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 But in practice, like most things in this life, marriage also comes with plenty of challenges. After the honeymoon phase of marriage, as life gets busy and maybe a bit mundane, staying deeply in love takes some intentionality. What can couples do to keep growing in love with one another… and with God? Neither Chris nor Jenni grew up in households with perfect marriages, but both gleaned examples of “what to do” and “what not to do” both before and after their own marriage. The couple met at church in their early twenties when the pastor asked the congregation to greet their neighbors. The Graebes met while worshiping God and have continued to pursue Him in their marriage. While working on their own spiritual development podcast, Jenni's study of the spiritual discipline of crafting a rule of life inspired a new way to think about God-honoring marriage. After envisioning the spouses they wanted to be in Christ, the couple could intentionally plan the spiritual and relational practices they needed to build into their lives in order to reach that ideal. You've probably heard it said that a successful marriage requires striking the right balance. But most of us juggling family, work, church, and other responsibilities will find that total balance is difficult to reach – and even harder to maintain – as unexpected circumstances and changes arise. Instead, we could aim to find rhythm, like a couple dancing together in time. The Graebes found that five “rhythms” help to strengthen Godly relationships: Speaking life Serving Slowing down Seeking adventure Staying in awe  Like Jenni, we should all aspire to build the kind of marriage that our children will long to have for themselves. Tune in to this month's podcast to hear more about what God has done in the lives and marriage of the Graebes, and to explore new ways to grow spiritually as husband and wife. 

As we turn the page on 2021 and enter 2022, it's important to focus on what matters. Brett James, a Hall of Fame Songwriter, summed it up best when he described what he wanted his legacy be: love! “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.” – Matthew 22:37-39Love matters. It matters to those around us, it matters to our innermost being, and most of all, it matters to God. If love is the finish line, what are the guideposts along the way? How do we get there? In the New Year we hope to encourage you that in the race for love:  Goals Matter Time Matters Relationships Matter Brett's story shows us all that God puts each of us in a time and a place for a purpose. Sometimes it may be a trial we're in, where leaning into Jesus can provide us the way out and an invaluable lesson. Often it is in the deepest valleys when we can draw nearest to the Lord. Sometimes it's in the everyday – handling your career to provide for your family, keeping up with your small children who require so much of your energy, or maybe it's an area of ministry in which God has called you to use your gifts. Brett speaks about his path to a songwriting career and how so many try for years without success. Sometimes He places the most unlikely person in your path to show you a different way. Brett tried to make it for seven years before moving on and going back to medical school. But as much as he felt prompted to do this for the greater good of providing for his family, God moved in an unexpected way when he continued to use his gift. He persevered in his passion of songwriting while attending classes. God showed him (in record time) that this passion and gift would be rewarded as He carved out his own path for Brett's life.  Look around – there is plenty of evidence that you don't have to work in ministry to fulfill God's plan for your life. We are all gifted in certain areas and each job, task, or career can be a mission-field. If we keep our identity deeply rooted in Christ, we can find meaning in our lives, which is far greater than needing to find meaning in our careers. “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” – Colossians 3:23-24As we encouraged you to close 2021, this race is much easier to run with brothers, fellowship, and the accountability we can find when we don't go alone. Give the podcast a listen this month and follow up each Friday with a different focus on our Goals, Time, and Relationships to help you achieve what really matters this year and beyond.

The Christmas season can be a time of great joy, but for some it can shine a light on struggles, loss, and stress. Maybe your problems are financial, relational, or even spiritual. In this month's podcast, Rolling Hills-own Scott and Kathy Koon talk through navigating the holidays whether you are feeling joy, grief, or just plain lost. They talk about marital strain and how healing begins when you personally strengthen your relationship with the Lord. Grieving and loss affects so many of us when the holidays come because we look around the table and see the empty chairs of loved ones that have passed away.Don't skip Christmas just because there is an empty seat at the table. Jesus is there in these struggles and also calls us to commune with believers who can hold our arms up when we feel like we can't. Scott and Kathy share their insights on growing and extended families and healthy ways to hold fast to some traditions while embracing new ones. I believe there is a reason we celebrate Thanksgiving leading up to Christmas. It sets your heart in the right place as you try to center your thoughts on the joy and the miracle of Jesus' birth. As Kathy points out, this time of year serves as a reminder that life is short and we must focus on what is important. This is a time to be grateful and generous for what the Father has done for us and continues to do through us. If you are struggling, start an advent study, speak with someone that can help, or journal about God's blessings in your life, including those you've lost. When you look back on the traditions and busyness of your life, what will your legacy be? Will you start to read the Christmas story with your family to reflect on the importance of Jesus as man? Will you hold fast to the traditions of those no longer with us, and form new ones to pass down to the generations to come? Scott and Kathy want their legacy to be someone remembered for pointing others to Jesus. To fulfill the Great Commission and to share the Good News with all those they encounter. It's easy to lose sight of this simple request when we focus on things other than Jesus at Christmas. No matter where you are, there is a God who loves you and has a purpose your life. He is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. He is there with you at the mountain top and He is with you in the valley. If you are struggling in your marriage, fix your eyes on Jesus. If you're going through a difficult diagnosis, fix your eyes on Jesus. If you are grieving a loss or have an unexpectedly empty seat at your table, fix your eyes on Jesus. He truly is the reason for the season. 

In this podcast, Greg describes poignantly that temptations of the flesh often take place because of unexamined and unchecked triggers. Maybe it's stress, anxiety, depression, or even boredom. Those are all things that we men think we need to hide away from others because a “real” man wouldn't let his emotions be known. But if we take the time to examine ourselves under God's lens, we will see a different picture – one where all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. One where no matter our sin, God loved us enough to sacrifice His own son to save us, so that we no longer have to be slaves to sin but free from the bondage of it. Through his story of recovery, Greg highlights the need to bring our struggles into the light where they no longer have the same power that they do behind closed doors. He demonstrates how our desires and worldly pursuits often leave us feeling guilt, shame, and abandonment. Yet, when we are open and transparent with those we trust, those barriers and walls start to come down, and we can hold one another accountable in ways we could never do alone. You see, Christian men for too long have thought they need to be a symbol of perfection, but this was never God's design. We are not perfect, so we shouldn't feel the need to pretend that we are. The fact of the matter is, we can't accomplish God's plans without ceding control to the same Almighty God. Needing help is the way God created us. We need His divine help, but we also need the help of our brothers. If you find yourself struggling with addiction, covetousness, lust, or any other part of your thought life, Greg encourages you to make that known to someone you trust. If you need that kind of help, seek it out. If someone comes to you in need of your help, freely give it without judgment. There is a path to recovery, but we were never meant to walk the path alone.Next Steps1. When you examine your thought life, what triggers do you have?2. Have you been struggling in the shadows with a secret sin or lustful thoughts?3. Do you have someone you trust to have this kind of openness with? If so, I encourage you to reach out to them and seek accountability.

Today we have a special podcast for you, as we wanted to share with you a live portion of the Versus Conference that happened on Thursday at Rolling Hills Community Church. So, you'll be hearing from Pastor Jeff Simmons, as he dives into the story of Elijah found in 1 Kings 18-19.From fighting the urge to follow what culture says to staying faithful and pure in the midst of temptation to struggling with his own insecurities and battles, Elijah faced many challenges in his lifetime, but even through it all, he found God to be his faithful Rock, and he found another Christ-following man to fight with him in battle. We, too, will face many challenges, temptations, and trying circumstances because we're all in a battle – each and every day – with a real Enemy. But, like Elijah, we were created to walk with God and walk with other men as we face our everyday battles. In a matter of moments, Elijah went from staging and witnessing one of God's large-scale miracles against the worshippers of Baal, to fleeing alone to an empty cave full of fear, worry, and anxiety. If someone with the resume of Elijah, who God spoke to and worked miracles through, discovered that he couldn't handle life alone, how much more do we need to come to this realization? As men, we face battles every day. Our careers, marriages, how we raise our children, relationships, our mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health – all present unique challenges. We live in a culture that would have us shoulder this responsibility alone, but Scripture shares a different truth: “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17Even a man like the prophet Elijah struggled when he tried to shoulder the burden alone. But in the face of Elijah's struggles, there are lessons to be learned: Stand Strong for the Lord, even when it is unpopular. Elijah saw the destruction that worshipping other gods brought and wasn't afraid to challenge those around him to show God's strength. Listen and Pray. God's triumph on Mount Carmel was a spectacle seen by hundreds and when the dust had settled, Elijah began to fear the opponents who were still left. At first, he tried to handle this alone, but the Lord made it clear that he could not. In fact, he never had, God was always with him. Who better to take with you into battle than the Lord of the Universe? Invite other Men to the Walk. After God came to him in the cave, Elijah set out and found a fellow brother to walk alongside him; someone to pour into, someone to hold him accountable, and someone to encourage him in his mission. God is with you in whatever battle you are facing and tells you: Don't Go Alone! When we isolate, we put ourselves and our families in danger. If you're struggling or think you can handle everything on your own, lay that down at the feet of Jesus. Don't let the enemy gain a foothold in your life, in your marriage, in your children's lives. Right now is our time to make a difference. Man-up and take others into the battle with you.

Today it seems like there's a lot of confusion around what it means to be a man. Most of the time big beards, axes, and bulging muscles are what come to mind. We're supposed to be tough and iron-clad. All day, everyday. And somewhere along the way, this has mutated into us being stoic figures in our lives. Men don't cry, we don't show when we're in pain, and we're tough enough to not talk about our emotions because that's a weakness. And that definition couldn't be farther from the truth. There is a balance though – no woman wants a man who is a constant basket-case. But that doesn't mean we have to be a statue emotionally. There is actually a great deal of strength, power, and resilience that comes with becoming more vulnerable with others in our lives. When we strip down our self-built personas and allow our true selves to be seen, THAT is when we are able to connect more deeply in our relationships, our marriages, our friendships, and our work environments. And in this, we not only find healing, connection, and more intimacy with others but also an opportunity to empathize and encourage others as they open up deeper as well.  Now, we're not saying you have to be an emotional wreck day in and day out, but there must be this intentionality of being in touch with what's going on inside your heart and mind... and then sharing it. But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 2 Corinthians 12:9 There are two key elements in this verse we shouldn't fly by. First, Paul is saying he knows his weaknesses. He's aware. He's reflected. He's invited the Holy Spirit in to reveal. And because he knows his weakness he shares his weaknesses. He actually says he boasts gladly about his weaknesses to others. He's sharing them without hesitations or reservedness so that Christ's power can rest on him.  It's time we stop trying to play Macho Man and start playing Kingdom Man – men who submit to God's everlasting principles even if that means shedding a tear or two in the name of Christ. What's the last thing you've opened up fully to your wife or community group about? When you have emotions and start to hold them back, why is it you feel like you shouldn't share? What is something you've been wanting to share with someone but haven't yet? Who could you share it with and when?

No matter what you do in life, whether you're a businessman, a teacher, a dad, a CEO, or another role, God has called us to work in all things to the very best of our ability. That's what Will Butler, our guest on today's podcast, learned from a young age and what he takes into life each and every day.Though he began his career in the corporate world, several opportunities that, at the time, were fairly risky crossed his path, and Will ended up making the move to become an entrepreneur and business owner. Now, as the owner of several businesses in the Nashville area, including Mojos Tacos, Five Daughters Bakery, and Burger Up, as well as a Commercial Real Estate Entrepreneur and Wealth Advisor at TBH Global in Franklin, TN, Will still makes it a priority to keep his faith first, his family second, and his work third. And, when it does come to work, he firmly believes that its our duty as Christ-followers to give our very best to all that we do.You'll hear it over and over again from Will in this month's podcast. Work hard. That's your job. Work hard. God will work through your work.We can find ourselves falling into a routine. We answer the emails, go to the meeting, scarf down lunch still swallowing on our way to the next meeting, carve out some time to get that proposal done, then jump to the next thing until it's time to go home. Just to wake up, rinse, and repeat. It's our nature to slip into routine. We can so easily be lulled to sleep in our everyday lives, but that's not how Christ called us to work.Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters... (Colossians 3:23) You've heard it before. We're not meant to coast through our work and cash our check (excuse the outdated reference). As a man, you're called to pour yourself out daily to the fullest extent. Take a moment to dissect a key part of the verse. It says "work at it." That's it. No qualifiers, no wiggle room, no room for excuses. It doesn't say when you feel like working at it, it doesn't say when you want to work at it, or even when you're having a good day, work at it. God tells us to work at it. Plain and simple. All the time work at it.Secondly and just as important, it says "with all your heart." You may have convinced yourself if you just do the thing, then you've submitted yourself fully to the command. But you haven't. God's not just concerned if you're working at it, He wants you to give of yourself entirely. Translation: you should be exhausted at the end of the day. You should be proud of the work and effort you put in each day. You should want to sign your name on the day and say, "Yeah, I did that today." You're working to bring honor to God in your day job. Whether it's behind a computer or out in the field, God is concerned with your effort level because He has you exactly where He wants you in His plans, and it's up to you to stay fully engaged with His work. Which is ours.So, take the time to listen to Will Butler's podcast today, then sit down and think through a couple of these questions: Did you give "all your heart" to your work yesterday? If you did, how do you know? If you didn't, why not? If you could redo yesterday, what would you change? Apply that change to today. If you gave all your heart to your work every day for a year, what would life look like at the end of that year? When was the last time you asked God to supply you with the energy and discernment for the day?

In this month's brand-new episode, you will hear from Ron Carr, a husband, father, and Kids & Students Ministry small group leader. Ron shares his story that ultimately led him to a life of service and investing in the next generation. Ron gives stories and key principles that will encourage, inspire, and motivate you to take your next steps in service to God. Let's not miss it. One of the most important things that we can do is influence others towards eternity, especially the next generation. We all have a high calling to introduce the next generation to Jesus and to invest. Read this short story about people bringing children to Jesus.Then people brought little children to Jesus for Him to place His hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked them.Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” When He had placed His hands on them, He went on from there.Matthew 19:13-15Notice several things… People were bringing people to Jesus. Not just parents. This calling is for ALL people within the church.  We are to create pathways for the next generation to have encounters with Jesus.  Jesus made time for the next generation.  Here are the probabilities of people accepting Jesus Christ as their Savior for a lifetime relationship. Two-thirds of Christians came to faith before the age of 18.  43% came to Christ before age 12. Less than one-fourth of current believers came to Christ after the age 21.  That is why I believe we need to be intentional about reaching the children of today. That is why Kids & Students Ministry is important to the future of the church. Men, let's lead the next generation well. Let's point them to the truth of God's Word and the grace found in Jesus. Let's do our part to leave a faith legacy that far outlives us and generations to come.

If you've ever felt a stirring in your heart to do something that on the surface seems a bit crazy, but that you know down deep is something you've been called to do, you're going to love today's conversation with Ken Thomas, President of Connect Ministries. Ken will share his story of how he stepped away from a successful career to step into a God-sized vision that took him from organizing 3-on-3 basketball tournaments in Franklin, TN, to a nation-wide network of youth camps that have reached more than 250,000 campers and helped hundreds of churches connect with their local community.As leaders, we all face defining moments in our lives. Too often, our human nature wins out, and we choose the path of safety and comfort, instead of leaning into our passions and responding to the needs around us. Ken grew up in church and knows how important strong biblical principles are to shaping us as leaders. When Ken was introduced to the statistic that 43% of the U.S. population isn't associated with a local church, he became laser-focused on finding creative ways to bridge the gap. As you listen to today's interview, ask yourself these two questions: What are the felt needs you see in your community?  How has God gifted you, and where is the intersection of these skills and the needs you just listed? Now... act. You'll never have the perfect plan, it will never be the perfect time, and the enemy will always plant seeds of doubt about how you aren't ready. Act anyway. God can do miracles with just one small step of obedience.  

Welcome to the month of May, Men's Leadership Network! This month, we've got a special interview with Chris Hardy, the Director of Programs and Church Partnerships for Justice and Mercy International. Pastor Jeff sits down with Chris for an inspirational conversation about being a part of something bigger than yourself, what it looks like to live intentionally and on mission, and how we can live “all out!”Chris starts the conversation talking about his family, the people who mean the most to him in the world. Chris has been married to his wife, Traci, for 27 years. They have two children, Kara-Anne (22) and Will (18). With Will graduating from high school this month and starting college in the fall, Chris and Traci are about to enter into a new phase of their lives as empty-nesters.A native of Georgia, Chris studied psychology at Berry College and has been working in ministry since 1990. Most recently, he served 19 years on the pastoral staff at Westover Church in Greensboro, NC, as Staff Pastor where he provided oversight for equipping his staff and leadership development. Today, Chris serves on staff with Justice and Mercy International, where he manages JMI's international programs and helps establish partnerships with churches, organizations, and schools.As you listen to Chris and Pastor Jeff, what shines through is Chris's passion for the work to which God has called him at this moment with JMI, as well as an overall passion for men to see the places we find ourselves today as our mission field. We must make the intentional efforts in the big events of our lives and in the everyday routines to point people to Christ. Next Steps1. Can you think about a time you were a part of something bigger than yourself?2. Have you had a specific situation or circumstance that caused your faith in Christ and love for Him to grow?If you want to learn more about JMI's work or get involved, visit their website here. There are many opportunities to be a part of what God is doing through their ministry.

Spring is in full swing, and Easter is here! And a new month means a new podcast interview for our Men's Leadership Network! This month on the Men's Leadership Network Podcast, Pastor Jeff Simmons sits down with Teddy Matosich for a conversation about how as men we can have a life-transforming impact on the individuals God has placed in our lives by being intentional, available, and willing to step in and share the hope of the Gospel that has transformed our lives.  Teddy grew up in upstate New York in what he describes as a “stereotypical Italian-American family.” He and his wife Renee have been married for 19 years and have two kids in high school. After graduating from college, Teddy moved to Georgia where he spent 12 years coaching high school football. He then moved to California to begin his career in the mortgage banking industry, which is what he still does today. When you listen in on Teddy's conversation, you will immediately find out that he has a passion for God's Word, a commitment to living out his faith in Christ wherever God puts him, and a fire to invest in others and make a Gospel impact in their lives. One of the lives he has impacted is a young man named Chad who was the server at the restaurant Teddy and Renee visited weekly after church. I am confident that each of us will be challenged by this story of how an intentional relationship that was built over time resulted in Chad trusting Christ, and Teddy having the pleasure of baptizing him last year. Teddy also shares how he sends a daily Bible reading email with notes, commentary, context, background, geography, and history to help others read and understand Scripture. If you are interested in getting Teddy's daily email simply share your email address with us, and Teddy will add you to his list. Next Steps1. Who are the people that God has placed in the natural rhythms of your life – in your home, in your neighborhood, at your office, or gym2. What would it look like for you to begin to be intentional, available, and willing in the next several weeks as you interact with them?

We're kicking off this month on the Men's Leadership Network Podcast with a candid and honest conversation with Former Major League Baseball All-Star Tim Burke and Pastor Jeff Simmons. In this conversation, Tim openly shares about his childhood journey where he experienced much painful loss. However, it was on the pitcher's mound that he found his safe place. In his life, he faced many ups and downs in his marriage, his family, and his time in the MLB. Today, he has the joy of walking alongside professional hockey players serving as the National Hockey League Chaplin. Every man listening will be challenged and encouraged by Tim's story of God's consistent love and great care for us, as Tim shares how God has moved in his life time and time again. For example, God used a couple of teammates to reach out and simply invite him to a Bible study which ended up being the conduit for the Gospel to grip his heart and save him and his marriage. God continued to work when he and his wife faced great challenges as parents of five adopted children. Above all, the Lord has met him in the very depth of his darkness showing him grace and restoring him. As you listen to Tim Burke, you can't help but hear a man that has experienced just how amazing God's grace is, a man who understands that we desperately need God at every moment, and a man who has abiding confidence that God has and will provide everything we need. Reflection 1. 1 Peter 5:7 says, Cast all your anxiety on him because He cares for you. How has God met you in the midst of deep sorrow and shown you that He cares for you? 2. Who are the people God put on your heart when you heard Tim share about his teammates who, without knowing his story, reached out and invited him to a Bible study? Why do you think those names came to mind? Could God be using Tim's story to challenge you to take a similar step?

This month, Pastor Jeff Simmons has a timely and challenging conversation with Pastor Wayne McCullough from Limestone Baptist Church in Franklin, TN, about race, racism, reconciliation, and the Gospel. Pastor Wayne was born and raised in Franklin. His mother was a believer and raised him to love and trust the Lord. Pastor Wayne grew up in Franklin when the city was still largely segregated but attended high school at the very beginning of desegregation. He's a graduate of Tennessee State University and has dual degrees in Accounting and Business Administration. Pastor Wayne retired from Kroger as District Manager with 38 years of service. While at Kroger, he held several positions in Human Resources, Operations, and Merchandising. It wasn't until October of 2000 that he began pastoring Limestone Baptist Church. In the podcast, Pastor Wayne shares his experience of growing up in a segregated community and the transition to a desegregated high school. He addresses that what we are taught affects how we experience life and how we treat others of different races; however, we all have to make a choice about how we will treat those who are different from us. The Gospel must shape our understanding of race and should lead us to see and call racism what it is at its root. Because racism at any level is a sin, to hold hatred in our hearts towards anyone created in God's image is a sin. Pastor Wayne also speaks to our current political climate and gives a handful of practical steps for every Christian. This conversation will encourage you, challenge you, and call you to faithfulness and obedience to God's Word as we live in the time God has given us and as we learn what it means to love God and love others. Next Steps 1. Are there sinful attitudes or actions that God has exposed in your heart that he is calling you to confess and repent of? 2. For those who have placed their faith in Christ, what does it mean that, before anything else, our identity and our title is Christian? Not husband, dad, banker, mechanic, student, Democrat or Republican, but Christian – a child of God, a follower of Christ, saved by grace. How would this bring real change to the racial tension in our culture today?

Kicking off 2021, Pastor Jeff Simmons sits down with Austin Casselman for a challenging and encouraging conversation about the essentials for starting something new, as well as the importance of finishing things we have started in 2021. Austin is a husband and a father of three kids. He is an entrepreneur, CEO, and founder of “Implement Now,” an organization that partners with entrepreneurs and leading brands to manufacture their mission, helping them efficiently and effectively manage manufacturing and supply chains that are critical to their business' success. Austin is also the co-founder and CEO of “Catching Deers,” an apparel brand inspired by the hunt camp and built for a hunter's lifestyle. If you have not already, do yourself a favor and check out their funny videos page on the Catching Deers website! While the main focus of the conversation is the essentials for starting something new and the importance of finishing things we have started in 2021, there is so much more for men to be challenged by as Austin shares the details of his personal journey of losing everything, watching his parents come to faith in Jesus, and experiencing the Lord's provision. You can't help but be challenged and encouraged when Austin shares his passion for men to lock arms with other men to study God's Word and hold each other accountable. Reflection 1. As you reflect on Austin's story, how has God used tough circumstances in your life to draw you to himself and grow your trust in him? 2. Looking at 2021, how does Austin's story challenge you when it comes to starting or finishing something this year? Do us a favor! -Share this podcast with a family member, friend, co-worker, or neighbor. -Follow MLN on Instagram for weekly content and updates.

This month, we have a special treat as Rolling Hills' very own Nashville Campus Pastor Nic Allen, Nolensville Campus Pastor Jason Hale, and Family Pastor Chase Baker join Pastor Jeff for a fun and incredibly helpful conversation about how we can prepare for and lead through a Christmas like no other. In the podcast, we discuss how during this Christmas season we can recognize, embrace, and even celebrate the obvious things that will be different this Christmas. Each of the members of the panel challenge us to evaluate our attitudes about Christmas during a pandemic. They share practical ways to intentionally engage our families. They encourage us to seize this unique Christmas as a special blessing for our own relationship with Jesus to grow, as well as an opportunity to establish new traditions that may be more meaningful than the frantic Christmas seasons of the past. And, they remind us that, while many things are different, the foundational truths have not changed. It all may feel different but Joy, Peace, Hope, and Love that were ushered into our world with the coming of Jesus has not changed at all! Next Steps 1. What Christmas traditions are you going to have to alter this year? 2. How can we use the additional calendar space we have this year to do something meaningful and generous that the frantic schedule of the past would not allow?

Former professional golfer Danny Briggs joins Pastor Jeff to discuss leading in faith and marriage in the midst of an ever-changing work schedule. In today's podcast interview, Danny talks about his time on the PGA tour, his legacy as a husband and father, and using his passion to give back to others. Ever since he was ten years old, Danny has loved golf. He describes it as an immediate passion, and as he got older he used it to travel the world. In this interview, Danny describes all the professional golfers who've mentored him along the way, as well as how golf became an opportunity for fellowship with others. One of the biggest influences on Danny's faith has been his parents. Though he discovered golf through his father, he explains that his parents instilled him a Christian foundation at an early age. He remained involved with Christian organizations throughout college and later in life when he married his wife, Kim. Danny discusses how his 20 years on the PGA Tour had a considerable impact on his marriage and family, but it wasn't until he retired and spent more time at home. As he describes it, he and Kim had to “fall in love again” and struggled to live together for the first time. Despite this, Danny expresses gratitude for his family and emphasizes how he had to learn to put God first in his relationship with his loved ones in order that his marriage could be better than ever. Though Danny has many stories about life on the Tour to tell, he makes clear that his transition from single life as a young golfer to a father has kept him humble. This is most evidently seen in the way he's given back to the game of golf, working with the Tennessee Golf Foundation, a nonprofit organization that works to teach golf and life values to youth and the disadvantaged. Danny's belief in the core values of joy and fellowship that golf instills in each player is what led him to joining the TGF. He's passionate about introducing the game to people young and old and is always happy to join newcomers interested in a day out on the greens. Next Steps How are you using your passion to reach others for Christ? How could you bring people to know Christ in your own way? What are some ways you're pursuing your career right now may be sacrificing too much of your family? How are you balancing your career and your marriage? What are the core values you've learned through your career that you believe in? How can you teach those values to others?

Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and businessman Charles Overby joins Pastor Jeff to discuss the upcoming presidential election and the role Christians have to play in the country's political discourse. In this conversation, Charles analyzes recent political trends, defines personal factors that matter most when voting, and provides a historical perspective to remind us what's most important. Charles' break into politics started through journalism. Whether he was a reporter, editor, corporate executive, or the head of a non-profit foundation, his love for being an observer brought him into close proximity with many politicians and public servants. While he explains that most politicians care about their constituents and sacrifice much to serve, he also maintains that Washington, D.C. is a hub for power that people naturally gravitate towards. In fact, he emphasizes that the ability to come to terms with that power requires maintaining a Christian perspective. In this interview, Charles discusses the question of how involved Christians should be in politics. He explains that the answer isn't avoiding politics all together nor becoming too involved, but, rather, somewhere in between. Citing Philippians 3:20, Charles believes we have a responsibility to participate in democracy, but we can't forget where our primary citizenship lies. He also believes that though the office of President isn't a position ordained by God in His Kingdom, He can still use our leaders for His good, and He is sovereign even through the most divisive elections. This gives us an even greater reason to pray for our leaders and those running for office rather than just talking about them. Though evaluating how to get involved in politics can be a difficult task, Charles explains that praying for and figuring out what to look for in a candidate is the first step. For him, he looks for wisdom, discernment, and self-control in each person running for office. He maintains that through this criteria the best candidate may not necessarily be a Christian, but God can still use them for His Kingdom. Perhaps most importantly, Charles emphasizes the importance of how we should live as Christians in regard to our political “enemies.” We should live in such a way that our beliefs are seen by others, speaking with humility and not confusing our political convictions for our Christian convictions. As men, we should also be looking to share this moment in history with our children, teaching them how we make choices, how others make choices, and the privilege to have a choice in this country. Next Steps What are ways you can get involved in politics as a witness to others who might disagree with you? What criteria of distinguishing characteristics could you develop and look for when voting for a political candidate? How can you share this presidential election with your children or grandchildren as a history lesson? What could they learn from this point in history?

LifeWay Christian Resources President and CEO, Dr. Ben Mandrell, joins Pastor Jeff to discuss how to lead as men in a culture that is constantly changing. In today's new podcast interview, Ben explains how to handle change, how to stay spiritually grounded when making decisions, and why the idea of change is such a difficult subject for men to tackle. As someone who has had to face a great amount of change in his own life, Ben's latest calling came in the form of taking over LifeWay Christian Resources in 2019 and leaving the church he planted in Denver, CO. It's this transition to a different part of the country and a different part of vocational ministry that led him to a new way of thinking about change. In this interview, Ben discusses how change always involves grief. He also explains how this sense of grief is wrapped up in our identity and provides practical ways to become untethered from the culture's concept of work and identity. Though Ben was saved at a young age, he admits his call into vocational ministry was very unexpected and that a significant degree of uncertainty is necessary if we want to truly live by faith in what God is calling us to. This includes being honest with what we're driving towards and being willing to fail. He also emphasizes the importance – and complications – of going back to the basics of the spiritual practices. We find ourselves drifting from God when we sacrifice quiet time, reading the Word, confession to other believers, and prayer in order to spend more time in our work. More than any other advice in handling change, Ben highlights the significance of building authentic relationships that are deeper than just your job. Pursuing relational depth with God and relational intimacy with other men are the key to pursuing God in the midst of change rather than pursuing idols such as pleasure, projects, and professional achievement. Whether we realize it or not, building genuine relationships are necessary to handle the emotional weight change can bring, whether that be a change in vocation, location, or life circumstance. Next Steps 1. Where are you pursuing genuine relationships with other men outside of work? Where are opportunities to invite others into your life rather than a location? 2. When's the last time you stepped out in faith to what God's calling you to? What significantly uncertain decision could you prayerfully make today? 3. What's an area of your life you need to assess for idols you're driving towards? What changes need to be made in response to that assessment?

The Practices of a Godly Leader A MLN Interview with Jacob Scrimpshire, Rolling Hills Community Church Discipleship Pastor What does it truly mean to be a godly leader and how are you growing to become a stronger leader? Jacob Scrimpshire, our Discipleship Pastor, joins Pastor Jeff to tackle the answer to this very question in today's new podcast interview. As a husband, a father of a household of boys, and a pastor overseeing discipleship, Jacob has had to learn what it means to be a godly leader both at home and in the workplace. Though he met Christ at a young age, it wasn't until his mid-twenties that he came face-to-face with the reality that he had been carrying the weight of his sin for the entirety of his life instead of giving it fully to Jesus. From that point on, his life was deeply changed, and it was then that he felt the call to vocational ministry. This call eventually led him to his current role as the Discipleship Pastor at Rolling Hills. In this interview, Jacob explains what discipleship really means and how discipleship can impact the lives of men. Along with this, he shares his experience of being poured into and discipled as he grew in his faith, and he emphasizes the importance of these in any man's life as he is developing in his faith, in marriage, in fatherhood, and in manhood. Daily actions of obedience, like reading the Bible, spending time talking with Jesus, and memorizing Scripture, make a difference in helping you become the man that God designed you to be. Jacob highlights that these practical steps can make a major difference in your personal health and growth, as well as the spiritual health and growth of your family. Your leadership directly impacts the legacy you leave behind for your family and those who come after you. Next Steps Do you have specific men in your life to disciple you and be godly mentors to you? If not, who could be that person in your life? What is a specific practice in your life that you can implement to help you grow in your faith in Christ? Choose one practice or action step that you can begin to focus on this week. What is the legacy that you want to leave behind? Think through and write down what that really means to you.

Former NHL player, Mike Fisher, joins Jeff to talk about how his life has looked different since the last time he was on our Men's Leadership Network four years ago. As the former captain of the Nashville Predators, Mike Fisher learned what it meant to lead others who were looking up to him, whether that was on or off the ice. When facing adversity, Mike emphasizes just how important it was to be a leader and keep your faith in God strong even when tough situations come your way.  After re-committing his life to Christ when he was 23 years old, Mike began to live for the Lord, and he touches on how difficult it was at times to stay true to his faith in the midst of being in a professional sports team environment. It was through the help of some older, wiser Christian men that he was able to learn how to speak out about his faith while also knowing that he wouldn't be able to do everything perfectly. Your story matters, and it's important to share about what God has done in your life. You may never know who will be able to resonate with your story, and Mike discusses how he saw, firsthand, that telling your story can make a strong impact in the lives of those who hear it. Now being married for over 10 years, Mike also highlights how God has worked in his marriage, especially in him learning what it looks like to love your wife like Christ loves the church. Sometimes, Mike emphasizes, the best thing you can do for your marriage is lower your expectations and increase the amount of grace that you show to your spouse. Being a dad is another area of life where leadership is necessary. As a father of two boys, Mike has had to learn, at times, that our children have some lessons to teach us. Along with that, we, as dads, need to be pointing our children to Jesus, not just through discipline but in all areas of life. The insight that Mike shares in this interview can apply to men in any walk of life, and he has gleaned much wisdom about leadership through his life experiences. After listening to Mike's interview, we have some next steps to challenge you on how to be a leader in your circle of influence. Next Steps: 1. Who in your life can you share your story with? If someone doesn't immediately come to mind, how can you be praying that God can open the door to a conversation where you can share what God has done in your life? 2. Do you really view leadership as a means of serving others? In what ways can you change your leadership habits to make leading others more about them than you? 3. What are some daily actions steps that you can take to show your children their need for God?

Our guest this month for the Men’s Leadership Network podcast is an incredible man. Darrell Nelson is married to Connia, and they live in Franklin, TN. They have one daughter and two grandsons. Together, they light up every room that they enter, but when Darrell enters the room, he brings much more than just joy. He also brings a great deal of life experience and Godly wisdom, and the wisdoms he brings is exactly the type of wisdom we need at this moment in our culture.  In the podcast, Darrell shares his experience as a black man who grew up in a strict military family and lived in 26 places by the time he was 24 years old. He tells us about a very personal encounter with a police officer when he was a teenager that caused him to choose law enforcement as his career. He shares, with great emotion, the realities of systemic racism and its effects on young black men today. He also tells the moving stories of individuals that took interest in him and how it made a lasting impact on his life. Beyond these gripping stories, he gives us, as men and leaders today, a tangible step that we can all take to start the healing process we desperately need night now in our country.

Our guest this month for the Men's Leadership Network podcast is an incredible man. Darrell Nelson is married to Connia, and they live in Franklin, TN. They have one daughter and two grandsons. Together, they light up every room that they enter, but when Darrell enters the room, he brings much more than just joy. He also brings a great deal of life experience and Godly wisdom, and the wisdoms he brings is exactly the type of wisdom we need at this moment in our culture. In the podcast, Darrell shares his experience as a black man who grew up in a strict military family and lived in 26 places by the time he was 24 years old. He tells us about a very personal encounter with a police officer when he was a teenager that caused him to choose law enforcement as his career. He shares, with great emotion, the realities of systemic racism and its effects on young black men today. He also tells the moving stories of individuals that took interest in him and how it made a lasting impact on his life. Beyond these gripping stories, he gives us, as men and leaders today, a tangible step that we can all take to start the healing process we desperately need night now in our country.

Dr. Brad Dennis, Interim Chief, Division of Trauma and Surgical Critical Care at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, talks about leading wisely through Covid-19. As cities and municipalities begin to reopen, Dr. Dennis shares ways you can protect yourself, your family and others, dispels myths about the virus, and gives us a glimpse of what a future after Covid-19 could look like.

Dr. Brad Dennis, Interim Chief, Division of Trauma and Surgical Critical Care at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, talks about leading wisely through Covid-19. As cities and municipalities begin to reopen, Dr. Dennis shares ways you can protect yourself, your family and others, dispels myths about the virus, and gives us a glimpse of what a future after Covid-19 could look like.

This week on our COVID-19 Sessions, we will be discussing the question, “Is getting back to normal really our goal?” or should our goal be “How do we go forward?”

This week on our COVID-19 Sessions, we will be discussing the question, “Is getting back to normal really our goal?” or should our goal be “How do we go forward?”

This week on our COVID-19 Sessions, we will be talking about leading yourself well during a pandemic.