Next Step Leadership

Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds are glad you decided to join them in this week's episode of Next Step Leadership. As you listen to Pastor Brandon Goff's words, think about where you are in your personal journey and in your ministry. What lessons can you learn from Brandon's guidance? What beliefs do you often neglect? What statements of faith should be more a part of your everyday life? Through teaching, pastoring, and writing, Brandon offers key points so often forgotten in our hurried culture. His voice is needed during these days of questions and confusion. Receive his clarity. Reflect on his conclusions. Realize it isn't enough to memorize a few beliefs and then move on to a new trend or experience. God wants to continue teaching to you and through you, as He has done in Brandon's life and ministry. Believe God is bringing healing to your hurts and is transforming many lives through you. Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/pastorbgoff/Radiate Church - https://www.radiatechurch.net/Radiate Church Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/radiate-church-podcast/id1390951785

This week and next week you will hear the conversation Tracy and Chris enjoyed with Pastor Brandon Goff. Brandon is the lead pastor at Radiate Church in Columbia, SC. Their church emphasizes the importance of loving God, loving others, and loving life. They believe life doesn't end when a church service concludes. They seek to build relationships which show God's love throughout the week and throughout every season. Through joy and sorrow. Through celebration and transformation. Through questions asked and lessons learned. Brandon displays those elements in not only his ministry, but in his life. His story reminds those who listen that struggles are parts of this adventure. Listen and learn from how Brandon has endured the experiences and also grown through them. Think about how his story applies to you. And ask yourself, "What next steps can I take to learn what God is teaching me? How can I live with God's love flowing through me to others?"Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/pastorbgoff/Radiate Church - https://www.radiatechurch.net/Radiate Church Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/radiate-church-podcast/id1390951785

Revived and Kickin' (Survival to Revival: A Forty Day Journey Through the Wilderness, an amazing book by Joel de Jesus, is ideal literature for today's leaders. Hear his story in this week's Next Step Leadership podcast with Tracy and Chris. Pick up his book and read about what his wilderness experiences were--and are—like. Have you ever felt God was silent? Have you ever obeyed God, and the outcomes of your decisions did not go as you expected?  Have you faced major health issues and wondered when God would bring healing? Have you risked all to follow Jesus? In this world we do have tribulations and troubles. In leadership roles we also serve to help others as they endure their won tribulations and troubles. Learn from Joel's story of pain, questions, and hope. Let his forty images help you walk through the next forty days of your life. Take time for reflection (Why me and why this?), reaffirmation (What do you know for sure?), repentance (What's love got to do with it?), and revival (Have you found what you're looking for?).  https://www.amazon.com/Revived-Kickin-Survival-Revival-Wilderness/dp/1960024361

Author and business leader Joel de Jesus tells a story you don't want to miss. Listen to his testimony of difficulties, potential success, obedience to God, conflict, rejection, disaster, and hope. Yes, God places hope in the middle of life's storms. Leaders—and everyone in any role—often assume healing comes when all the external circumstances are resolved, when conflict concludes, when healing comes, when all the needs are met. But that is not biblical. And that is not how things happen. Joel de Jesus tells Chris Maxwell, Tracy Reynolds, and all those listening that becoming "revived" might occur during the journey through a wilderness. His book Revived and Kickin' (Survival to Revival: A Forty Day Journey Through the Wilderness) is the perfect material during today's seasons of uncertainty and disappointment and pain. Welcome his courage and endurance. Receive his hope. Your story isn't over yet. You are being revived during the journey.https://www.amazon.com/Revived-Kickin-Survival-Revival-Wilderness/dp/1960024361

Chris and Tracy continue their conversation with Pastor Randy Hill. Randy served in production and business for many years, and he know continues working in pastoral ministry. Through his seasons of morning and grieving, joy and pain in ministry, seeking God and obeying the Father, Randy knows about death and sadness while also knowing the miracles of God. His story is so needed in today's world of leadership. Hear his desire to follow Jesus. Even during pain, we can lead while following Jesus. In this episode, Randy emphasizes the importance of knowing why we are here. God has plans for each of us. We should learn what we are called and empowered to do. We are to "go after" that vocation—whatever it is—empowered by God. We are to serve as partners with the Holy Spirit. What can we do this week to help people encounter God? How can we help those around us smile? We are so often seeking to control our church services that we fail to allow time for God. As leaders, let us lead others to the altar. Believe God is at work in us and in those we lead. Welcome God's plan for each of us. https://www.gtchurch.net/staff/pastor-randy-bonnie-hill/https://www.facebook.com/jrandyhillministries

Randy Hill serves as a pastor, seeking to make a positive difference in the lives of other people. Randy also serves in denominational leadership. Through his years of pastoring, Randy has learned many lessons. Tracy and Chris enjoyed hearing Randy's story of growing up in church and seeing many miracles. Do we still believe in miracles? If so, why? If not, why? As a young child Randy traveled with his father who was leading revivals--his dad was also training Randy for ministry. Randy knew when he was young that the Lord had called him to preach. Even when he wasn't living as he should, he knew. Through the years he has learned many lessons of how to not do ministry. Like many people, he saw the hypocrisy. Like many people, he was looking for reasons to stay out of ministry. He worked for a ministry while trying to stay out of a preaching vocation. Through God's miracles and reminders, Randy said yes to the Lord. Listen to his reluctance and his obedience. Listen to his heart for God and people. Listen to the sadness of his wife passing away. Listen to hope amid the sadness. Learn what ministry can be like from Randy's perspective. https://www.gtchurch.net/staff/pastor-randy-bonnie-hill/https://www.facebook.com/jrandyhillministries

Tracy Reynolds and Chris Maxwell hope this second episode in their interview with Jeff McCoy continues guiding you through his journey from pain to healing. It is not just a few steps to success type of process. It is not just a learn-this-lesson-quickly-and-all-will-be-simple. No, our stories include conflict. They include terrible decisions. They include times of asking God questions we never thought we would ask Him. And, they can include healing and restoration. They can include community and redemption. They can move us into new seasons of deep, true, holy worship. Amid our wounds and our limps, let us make the choice to rejoice. Stories like Jeff's remind us why we refuse to quit and why we do make that choice to rejoice.

Interview with Jeff McCoy, Part 1 - Season 5, Episode 10This week and next week Pastor Chris and Pastor Tracy invite you to listen to a story of both deep sadness and true joy. As they engage in a conversation with their dear friend Jeff McCoy, they believe we all can learn important life lessons from his testimony. Jeff tells of his early years—life with God and family and friends and music. God and music have been, and continue to be, key parts of Jeff's story. He also guides you through times when life was not so fun, so joyful, so clear. Hear his narrative and think about your own story. What has helped you know the truth of God's love? What wounds have hindered you along the way? How have you responded to those scars? What lessons did you learn from them? Are there ways you have become closer to God after the storms? Jeff's story might be the ideal story for you during this season of your life.

Welcome to the second episode of Chris and Tracy's conversation with the amazing staff from Living Hope Church in Lenoir, NC. Pastor Keith Gilliam and his servant leaders invite you to listen in as they continue their dialogue is this installation that lasts a little longer than the normal weekly Next Step Leadership Podcasts. They discuss key topics related to leading a congregation together rather than apart, applying biblical principals in a church setting, what has worked well for them through the years, how God has helped them when situations were not simple, and how they continue living out the biblical calling in this hurried and busy world. No, church isn't just the way it was years ago. No, people aren't all just alike. But the biblical calling to make disciples is still the same. Churches like Living Hope and ministers like those who serve in this team offer hope during uncertain times. Listen to their love for God and for one another, and you'll notice that their hope is real, it is living, and it is just what we all need as we lead.https://www.livinghopelenoir.com/

Each one of the Next Step Leadership Podcasts for the last few years lasts only a little over twenty minutes. Tracy Reynolds and Chris Maxwell know listeners are in a hurry, so they try to provide important information in a brief segment of time. But today's episode is the first in a two-part conversation with a church staff—and both chats will be about twice the length of time the podcasts normally last. Why? Not just doing something different. But to allow audiences to “listen in” as a church staff talks about how they've created a healthy church environment, how they work together and work together well, how they stay true to their biblical purpose, and what lessons they learn from each team player. Remember, this podcast is titled Next Step Leadership for a reason. Discussions like this help all of us find ways to be sure our next steps—whatever the size of our churches and businesses, however many paid or volunteer staff we work with, wherever we are in our expeditions—are our best steps. And we believe that is most likely to happen when we work together rather than alone. The Living Hope Staff and their lead pastor Keith Gilliam welcome you to hear the story of their honor of working together for God.https://www.livinghopelenoir.com/

In this episode of Next Step Leadership, Tracy Reynolds and Chris Maxwell continue their conversation with Pastor Michael Ainsworth. Michael has served in ministry for many years—pastoring local churches and leading in a variety of areas with the International Pentecostal Holiness Church. As you listen to this second conversation for the podcast, you will be able to hear his motives. Those goals and desires are just what is needed in a culture refusing to trust leaders. Pastor Ainsworth has shown that it is not the platform or the performance that make the difference. It is being like Jesus. It is serving like Jesus. It is pastoring like Jesus. It is leading like Jesus. Pastor Michael Ainsworth is making a difference. And he believes we can also.https://www.nciphc.comhttps://www.facebook.com/nc.conference.iphchttps://www.instagram.com/nciphc/https://www.youtube.com/@ncciphc

Chris and Tracy invite you to listen in—and to tell your friends to listen also—to their conversation with Pastor Michael Ainsworth. Michael's story is one that brings a wonderful blend of information and inspiration. He is a true servant leader. Through his years of ministry, he has guided many people toward the love of God. You will be able to hear that love in Michael's voice and through his story. You will be reminded of God's love for each person—whatever their story, whatever their role, whatever their gifts, whatever their needs. Pastor Michael Ainsworth is not just a leader in his denomination. He is an example of how followers of Jesus can lead well in today's culture.https://www.nciphc.comhttps://www.facebook.com/nc.conference.iphchttps://www.instagram.com/nciphc/https://www.youtube.com/@ncciphc

In this episode of Next Step Leadership, Tracy Reynolds and Chris Maxwell continue their conversation with Mary Rathbone and Christina Carter. In last week's episode we heard of Christian looking for love in dangerous and damaging places. Hearing her story of mistakes made and family addiction, then a Savior's love accepted, today's leaders can learn more about the reality of modern culture. But Mary sets an example of the refusal to do nothing. She learned about the problems. She acted. Mary refused to miss opportunities to truly live the gospel story. Ask yourself how you can help. Ask yourself what you and those around you can do, should do, and must do. Don't wait any longer. Let the love of Jesus motive us to follow His leadership—Moms Adopting Moms is one example for us. What will we do?https://momsadoptingmoms.comhttps://www.facebook.com/momsadoptingmoms/https://www.instagram.com/momsadoptingmoms/

Chris and Tracy know you will enjoy their conversation with Mary Rathbone and Christina Carter. Mary and Christina work for Moms Adopting Moms. They hope to offer ministry and care for moms and their children. The ministry sets an example of what leaders can do in today's culture. Rather than just knowing about problems and needs, leaders take action. Mary felt drawn to adopt—even though she and her husband were accused of being too old. They went from having one six-year-old to five children six and under.  Christina tells her story of addiction. Their stories will challenge you. Welcome the challenge. Foster care is not easy. But the needs are huge. What can be done? What should be done? What can you do to make a difference? Mary's willingness toward foster care and adoption sets an example for each of us. How will we respond?https://momsadoptingmoms.comhttps://www.facebook.com/momsadoptingmoms/https://www.instagram.com/momsadoptingmoms/

This is the second episode of Tracy and Chris interviewing Pastor Jonathan Altman. Pastor Jonathan has learned many lessons through his years of ministry. He offers wisdom, ideas, and stories. His heart of kindness will be heard by all those who listen. He loves reading, listening, learning, studying, and caring for people. Churches formerly had pastoral studies; now they have offices. That is one example of how today's ministers forget the value of studying. What we do should come from who we are.  Study and prayer are parts of our development. Jonathan brings a mixture of quality education and pastoral compassion. And speaking of people, it is vital that we seek to become the people God wants us to be and to also have the right people in our lives. We can serve together and not alone, especially as we learn to grieve through life's struggles.https://www.spphc.com/staff

In this week's episode of Next Step Leadership, Chris and Tracy loved their conversation with Pastor Jonathan Altman. You will love it also. Take time to listen in. Think of what parts of Jonathan's story remind you about your story and the lives of people you know. What thoughts come to your mind as you hear about his parents' divorce? About him drifting away from God? About dealing with sadness and grief? About surrendering his heart to God? About his calling into the ministry, his time of reluctance to obey that invitation to ministry and his eventual willingness to say yes? About his heart for missions and his obedience into local church leadership? About working through his deep wounds and feeling alone? As you process his story, think about where God has guided you in the past and where He is taking you in the present. Remember God's love and refuse to attempt to endure life alone.https://www.spphc.com/staff

Season five is now beginning. Four seasons finished? That is hard to believe. This collection of podcasts includes many episodes of Next Step Leadership. And a fifth season will bring more. Take time to think about what you have learned from Tracy and Chris through their conversations and their interviews with a wide variety of leaders. If you could go back and pick your favorite interviews and episodes, what would you select? Why? What are you doing differently now because of what you heard? Chris and Tracy appreciate you listening and learning, and also you telling others about the podcast. Listen to this episode. Go back and hear some of the old ones again. Or listen for the first time to those you forgot to hear. Learn a few lessons, hear a few stories, take a few notes, and read a few books. Thanks for being a part of the Next Step Leadership family.https://chrismaxwell.me/https://www.ctracyreynolds.com/ 

This week's Next Step Leadership Podcast includes the second conversation Chris and Tracy enjoy with Jared Anderson and Kelly Wilkerson. Think of the lessons they have learned through years of ministry. Write a list of how you can serve wherever God guides you. Also take time to understand the value and importance of worship for today's culture. What thoughts from Jared and Kelly speak to you personally? How can you apply their wisdom? What can you help bring to today's church as it relates to ministry, worship, discipleship, and global outreach? How can we live in the now and the not yet? How can we live in authenticity, not relying on the past or waiting for the future? How can we welcome heaven to earth? How can we be sure our motives are to glorify God? Remember you are invited to worship God and to bring your love for Him to the world. Enjoy your daily bread. Celebrate communion with your Creator. https://www.1121worship.com/

Tracy and Chris were honored to have a conversation with Kelly Wilkerson and Jared Anderson. In this episode you will learn from the stories of Kelly and Jared. They both have made a positive difference in today's culture. Listening to their history and how they have gone to where they are now, audiences can remember portions of their own stories. God guides each personal differently, but we can all learn from one another. Decades of experience in worship, in ministry, and now serving at 11:21 Worship give Kelly and Jared many years of knowledge. A worship ministry of World Challenge, 11:21 Worship offers a wonderful opportunity to see how God is changing the world. Do not let yourself get in the way. Trust God. Believe He knows what He is calling you to do. Realize what tends to block you. Move forward and say yes to God's invitation.https://www.1121worship.com/

In this episode of Next Step Leadership, Chris and Tracy continue their conversation with their friend Kristi Cain. She talks about the importance of books in spiritual discipleship and relational development. As you listen, think about what books have impacted your life. What did you learn from those books? How did those books challenge you, educate you, inspire you, transform you? What are some books you started reading but never finished? Should you dive back into those books? Put together a list of books from the past which made your life better and a list of books you should read this year. Make the decision to welcome a lifetime of learning as you lead.https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bring-me-my-books/id1722072162

Tracy and Chris interviewed Jamie Cain for a previous podcast episode. This week and next week, they offer their fantastic conversations with Jamie's wife, Kristi Cain. As you hear her story of life and spiritual formation, think about your narrative. Let her journey remind you of key parts of your own adventure. Kristi has been involved academically, pastorally, and in writing and editing. She, Tracy, and Chris have all served in spiritual life at Emmanuel University. Kristi offers positive stories from church upbringing, raising children, personally growth, and finding hope in a world of questions and wounds.  She learned much from her parents and from others who have mentored her. Take time to gain truth from Kristi's story.https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bring-me-my-books/id1722072162

Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds continue their conversation with filmmaker, media consultant, speaker, and author Phil Cooke. In this episode, they continue focusing on Cooke's new book, Church on Trial: How to Protect Your Congregation, Mission, and Reputation During a Crisis. Listen to Phil's main points and his stories. This is not a simple, easy, humorous novel. He writes from experience about the word most people do not enjoy—crisis. That word “crisis” is not on a leader's list of goals and dreams. But it can become a reality for all leaders. And, all leaders should learn from Phil to protect a congregation, a mission, and a reputation during difficult circumstances.https://www.philcooke.com/

Tracy and Chris enjoyed having Phil Cooke in two previous episodes of Next Step Leadership, so they invited him back for more conversations. Phil continues helping churches, ministries, and businesses gain a better grasp of marketing and care in today's culture. As a filmmaker, media consultant, speaker, and author, Phil brings a vast array of research to guide leaders in planning and application. Phil's latest book—Church on Trial: How to Protect Your Congregation, Mission, and Reputation During a Crisis—is the perfect fit for this podcast. Listen and learn from Phil's honesty. Read his book. Apply the guidelines, putting yourself and your team in safer places.https://www.philcooke.com/

Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds continue their conversation with author and editor Drew Dyck. In this episode, Drew guides the audience through the key points in his book Just Show Up. We often forget the value of that, don't we? We are so success driven, so numbers focused, so outcome addicted. We grade and rank ourselves as leaders based on cultural stat sheets. But Drew offers us a better view. What if our task is to show up, to be, to live, to endure? What if our presence in ministries and in leadership roles matters more than anything our culture would consider as ways to improve our ranking? Hear Drew's stories and his laughter and his guidance. Take notes. Set healthy goals for your own life. And, as you are, remember to just show up. https://www.drewdyck.com/

Drew Dyck is a wise, creative writer with a wonderful sense of humor. His books and stories reveal those gifts. Tracy and Chris want you to get to know Drew. If you haven't read his books, get your copies and read them. If you haven't heard his stories, please listen to the episodes this week and next week. Drew's story is one many people can relate to. His narratives about church and faith, doubt and disappointments, reading and writing, learning and growing. Drew serves as an acquisitions editor, author, and speaker. He has written a variety of books, including Your Future Self Will Thank You, Yawning at Tigers, Generation X Christian, and his latest, Just Show Up. The Next Step Leaders podcast audience will love this episode. Do not wait and listen later. Hear words of wisdom from Drew Dyck. https://www.drewdyck.com/

In their second conversation with Steve Amerson, Tracy and Chris talk and listen and laugh again. While many people hear to the news reports and the negativity in today's politics, Steve has gotten to know personally the leaders at Capitol Hill. He listens to their stories. He prays for them and with them. He offers encouragement to them. Television and movie tracks aren't the only parts of his story. Steve has been leading worship twice each month for the last ten years to those in the United States government. His talent is amazing. His heart brings hope. Think about how he is connecting with key leaders and young influencers. What can we learn from Steve? How can we obey God when He takes us places we do not expect to go? How can we be servant leaders influencing today's culture? Isn't impacting people much better than complaining? Isn't it best to use our talents and interests to connect with people who are waiting for someone who will listen to them and pray for them? Let Steve lead us as Christ followers.

Chris and Tracy are glad you could join them in another episode of Next Step Leadership. In this conversation, they talk with Steve Amerson—a world class vocalist. Steve has been involved in various ministries and music around the world. Twice monthly he travels to Washington DC to lead Word on the Hill, a spiritual encounter for leaders in the United States Government. Steve grew up on a pastor's home and his mother led the children's choirs. He learned many lessons spiritually, musically, and pastorally through his parents and their years of service. He continued his life of learning as he began leading others musically. From his years of education and ministry, and many seasons of letting God guide his decisions, Steve gladly tells his story of being a Christ follower. Listen to his story of singing in huge concerts and conventions. Hear how God continues placing Steve with worldwide decision makers. Think of ways God is working in and through your talent, just as He is singing songs of grace through Steve.  www.thewordonthehill.org 

This is the second conversation Tracy and Chris have with Tez Brooks. Tez is an author, life coach, missionary, filmmaker, and servant leader. His story and his wisdom are a perfect fit for Next Step Leadership. Tez brings a new perspective of the word “missionary.” His story offers the podcast's audience a fresh view of mission work and ministry. For those who feel unqualified, God does His work through various skill sets. The needs are large. The key is willingness to serve. Now as the National Communications Director for a ministry in Australia and through his writing, Tez offers his wisdom to people around the world. His latest book, Adult-o-Nomics: How To Nail It On Your Own, is a collection of 500 short quotes, scriptures, and suggestions for those leaving home for the first time. The book's insight is ideal for today's audiences. https://tezbrooks.com/

Tracy and Chris interview Tez Brooks in this episode of Next Step Leadership. Tez brings a unique, but fitting perspective for the podcast's audience. An author, life coach, missionary, filmmaker, and servant leader, Tez tells his story. He knows about family, divorce, raising children by himself while in ministry, departing for a season from vocational ministry, working in law enforcement, and adjusting to drastic life changes. He's done a wonderful job letting God guide him through a variety of endeavors, while developing many skills in the process. Tez remarried and began serving with Cru and the Jesus Film Project. Through his leadership, communication, and writing, Tez has influenced many lives. Learn from his wisdom, his compassion, and his willingness to develop new skills. Let his story bring positive changes into your own life. Find ways God can tell His story through you, just as He has through Tez. https://tezbrooks.com/

In this episode of Next Step Leadership, Sandra Glahn talks again to Tracy and Chris. Her knowledge offers deep, biblical, and practical insight for this podcast's audience. As a Professor of Media Arts and Worship at Dallas Theological Seminary and as an author or editor of over twenty books including Nobody's Mother, she brings a perspective today's church leaders need to hear. Sandra is a frequent podcast guest and retreat speaker whose areas of expertise include Artemis, Ephesus, Bible books and backgrounds, women's history and issues, the history of ideas about gender, sexuality and ethics, and writing for publication. Dr. Glahn and her husband, Gary, have been married for more than forty years, and they have a married adult daughter, who joined their family through adoption. She is honest about her beliefs and her disappointments. Female leaders need to listen to her thoughts. All leaders need to gain from her insight. Learn from her wisdom on mentoring, on giving away power instead of holding on to power, on shepherding, on preaching as teams, and on how there is no room for pride among today's leaders. https://sandraglahn.com/

Chris Maxwell has known author and professor Sandra Glahn through their connection with the Evangelical Press Association. Tracy Reynolds joins Chris in inviting Sandra to you. Sandra Glahn, PhD, is a journalist and the author, coauthor, or editor of more than twenty books, including Vindicating the Vixens, Earl Grey with Ephesians, Sanctified Sexuality (coeditor), and Sexual Intimacy in Marriage (coauthor). She serves as Professor of Media Arts and Worship at Dallas Theological Seminary. Her latest book, Nobody's Mother, lays a biblical foundation for men and women serving side by side in the church. During these days of disappointment and division, listen to Dr Glahn's story. Life doesn't always go the way we wish. Pain is a part of each person's story. Her wisdom and compassion are needed for today's leaders who continue learning to trust God whatever the season. https://sandraglahn.com/

In this episode of Next Step Leadership, Tracy and Chris continue their conversation with Karl Vaters. Karl is a minister and author who is getting much attention these days. He speaks up for small churches—the often forgotten culture. He offers wisdom and encouragement to pastors who struggle to get churches to follow every new trend and quickly become larger congregations. He wrote about the key points in his latest book De-sizing the Church: How Church Growth Became a Science, Then an Obsession, and What's Next. Pastors, lay leaders, ministry students, and all followers of Christ can gain a better grasp of Pastor Karl's teachings during this week's podcast. His words need to be heard. His wisdom needs to be applied. His humility needs to be followed. Listen and learn. Take the right next steps suggested from a leader like Karl Vaters. https://karlvaters.com/

Pastor and author Karl Vaters is a key voice for today's spiritual leaders. In a culture highlighting big churches and impressive stats, many ministers feel like failures. But what about tiny churches in small towns? What about the average size church which chooses to send ministers out instead of holding more people inside and hiring a huge staff? Too many great pastors are leaving ministry because of the pressure toward cultural success. Pastor Vaters brings deep knowledge from years of studying and pastoring. He learned how to define success in ministry without numbers attached to it. Through Karl's speaking and writing, he offers better views toward church health. Defining church success with numbers is relatively new in church history. American church development has historically moved from stages of revival to management to activism. During the present activism season, Karl states the things which matter most. His book—De-sizing the Church: How Church Growth Became a Science, Then an Obsession, and What's Next—provides a healthy perspective for why the church is truly created. His conversation with Chris and Tracy is just what is needed during these days. https://karlvaters.com/

This episode of Next Step Leadership offers the second part of the conversation Tracy and Chris had with Pastor Justin Blankenship. As Senior Pastor of Landmark Church in Purcell, OK, Justin discusses how he serves in ministry during these difficult days. Many pastors are leaving their profession. Some are even questioning or departing the faith. Followers of Christ are choosing to abandon church. Stories like Justin's are just the type of optimism, honesty, and hopeful narratives today's audiences need to hear. Pastor Justin knows the hurts and wounds of church and ministry. But he serves with the heart of Jesus. Hear that heart through his words. Decide how you can also serve like Jesus in these days of division. https://www.facebook.com/p/Justin-Blankenship-100095258405089/https://landmarkchurchok.com/our-team-v2/

Pastor Justin Blankenship is an ideal guest for Chris and Tracy's Next Step Leadership podcast. Justin serves as Senior Pastor of Landmark Church in Purcell, Oklahoma. He also is a preacher's son. He knows all the stories of churches and movements and trends and pastors' families. He also knows about letting family be a priority, keeping goals in place, and truly caring for others. Through his deep love for God and people, Justin sets a wonderful example for the type of clergy desperately needed in today's society.  Listen to the conversation. Hear Justin's heart. Learn from his gentle wisdom. Think of what you can gain and apply from his story.https://www.facebook.com/p/Justin-Blankenship-100095258405089/https://landmarkchurchok.com/our-team-v2/

Tracy Reynolds and Chris Maxwell invite you to “listen in” to this episode of their conversation with author, teacher, minister, and leader Dr. Michelle Anthony. As she started last week, Michelle continues offering wisdom for reaching and discipling families in this confused, sad, unsure culture. Pay close attention as she brings great insight for practical and doable solutions. Pick up and read copies of her books Spiritual Parenting: An Awakening for Today's Families and 7 Family Ministry Essentials: A Strategy for Culture Change in Children's and Student Ministries. Learn as a leader, as a parent, as a servant, as a follower of Jesus. What has God called you to do? How can you influence the world in a positive way? In what ways can her steps guide your journey of next step leadership? https://michelleanthony.org/about/

Dr. Michelle Anthony, the Executive Pastor of Families at New Life Church and Dean of Familymin Academy, is this week's guest in Next Step Leadership. Michelle is an author, speaker, mentor, and humble leader who is making a positive difference in today's society. Familymin Academy is a community of people who are passionate about ministry to the diverse needs of today's families. She's the author of books for families, including Spiritual Parenting: An Awakening for Today's Families and 7 Family Ministry Essentials: A Strategy for Culture Change in Children's and Student Ministries. In this episode, Michelle tells her story about how God met her and guided her to where she is today. Tracy and Chris encourage you to listen to her comments and think about your own story. How is God meeting you where you are and preparing you for the future? Who is helping lead you in that direction? Who are you leading as you follow Jesus? https://michelleanthony.org/about/

In this episode of Next Step Leadership Podcast, Tracy Reynolds and Chris Maxwell continue their conversation with Pastor Lee Mason. In 2007, Lee and his wife Lisa began Classic City Church, a non-denominational church serving the city of Athens, GA. Lee talks about his book, Ten Historical Facts About Jesus: What Historians Are Certain of Concerning History's Most Compelling Figure. His ten points are valuable for today's leaders to know: Jesus was a real historic figure.Jesus was known as a miracle worker in a manner unique to anyone else.Jesus was crucified in Jerusalem. Jesus was buried in the tomb of Joseph in Arimathea. Jesus' tomb was found empty by a group of women.Numerous people claimed to have seen Jesus alive after His death. Jewish monotheists began to worship Jesus as God.A resounding Messianic movement emerged after Jesus' death.Gentiles renounced their pagan ancestry to worship Jesus.Today Jesus is the most significant figure in history.Learn from these lessons. Understand the importance of Christ's death and resurrection, and why we believe what we claim to believe. The historical figure of Jesus can lead through us as we make the next steps as His followers.https://www.classiccity.org/staff

Through the history of Next Step Leadership podcast, Tracy and Chris have enjoyed their conversations with a variety of guests. This week's episode is another exciting chat. Pastor Lee Mason, Senior Pastor of Classic City Church in Athens, GA, tells his story of what brought him to his beliefs and his ministry.  The narrative reminds audiences the various ways God guides us through life's journeys. Lee learned much through each season of life, spiritual development, and church roles. He offers great insight on ministry and the proof of biblical beliefs. Listen to his story. Learn from his wisdom.https://www.classiccity.org/staff/lee-mason

Chris Maxwell's 12th book comes out October 1st. Each of the twelve chapters in the book, “Things We've Handed Down: Twelve Letters I Leave for You,” is written as a letter to a reader. The chapter titles are all book titles from books which have impacted Chris' life. He hopes to hand down to the next generation key life principles that he learned from the books. “Disappointment with God” by former Next Step guest Philip Yancey, “Wounds Are Where Light Enters” by Walter Wangerin Jr., “The Wounded Healer” by Henri J.M. Nouwen, “Life is Mostly Edges” by Calvin Miller, “Surprised by Joy” by C. S. Lewis, and “A Long Obedience in the Same Direction” by Eugene Peterson are just some of the chapters in this book.As a leader and a learner, what books have impacted your life? What lessons have you learned that you can “hand down” to others? How have disappointments and wounds brought you closer to God instead of farther from Him? How can we lead better by displaying love, acceptance, and forgiveness? Listen to the conversation. Pick up a copy of “Things We've Handed Down” and read it. Get copies for those you lead. Be sure you receive what's handed down to you and that you hand down God's love to others.Amazon: http://bit.ly/cmaxmanWebsite:chrismaxwell.me  Facebook: facebook.com/PauseWithChrisMaxwellTwitter:@CMaxManInstagram: CMaxMan

This episode of Next Step Leadership is the second conversation Tracy and Chris have with Pastor Bert Synan. Bert's honesty is so fitting for the overall message of this podcast's theme. Our next steps won't always be the best steps unless we know what our Creator is calling us to do and the true reason we are to do that. How has Bert developed relationships in his community? How is he telling Bible stories to those who not know the stories—even in a small town of the Bible-belt? Why do many church leaders limit their ministry to Sunday services or church events? How has officiating football games helped Bert show God's love? In a post-Christian culture, how can serving bi-vocationally be a huge advantage? Find something else to do unrelated to a church function. Study your culture. Learn a new appreciation for why you really do what you do.https://www.sandycrosschurch.org/staff

Tracy Reynolds and Chris Maxwell hope to provide you a variety of voices and perspectives on the Next Step Leadership podcast. In this episode, they are honored to let you listen to their conversation with Pastor Bert Synan. Bert has many stories to tell—stories each leader can learn from. His early years of growing up in church, experiencing Jesus himself, learning Scripture, and developing healthy relationships. Decades of pastoring. Offering pastoral care in a community. Adjusting to changes. Serving as a bi-vocational pastor. Building relationships through his other jobs. Moving from superficial performance toward a long obedience. Investing his life in true care for others. How has driving a school bus helped Bert reach people? How has Bert endured his wife's suicide? What lessons can others learn from Bert and his story?https://www.sandycrosschurch.org/staff

In their second Next Step Leadership conversation with Greg Hearn, Chris and Tracy appreciate his desire to make a positive difference in today's difficult culture. Greg's talents in finances, organization, and leadership have served in ministry areas too often forgotten. As president of Emmanuel University, Greg believes in the institution's true values. Offering a biblical worldview in this season so distant from that agenda, President Hearn believes we can start where someone is and then take them farther along. He wants to emphasize Christianity is not a list of rules, but a relationship that lasts eternity. Like Greg's story, your story is unique and important. Greg doesn't like the spotlight. He's enjoyed serving behind the scenes. But this is where God has now placed him. He serves in leadership as having people around who are better at doing what they do. A leader is no more important than others who serve. Learn from Greg. Let his perspective become yours.https://eu.edu/senior-leadership-team/

Greg Hearn now serves as President at Emmanuel University. Like many of today's leaders and their present positions, Greg did not expect to be in this role. But God places His servants where they need to be. Tracy and Chris enjoyed hearing Greg's story about life, family, growing up as a minister's kid, education, and where God has now assigned him. In the last two episodes, Landon Rowell reminded us the importance of serving while learning where we can serve best. In Greg Hearn's two episodes, listeners can learn how God moves people to key leadership positions when they're not seeking it. Greg agreed to say yes to what was best. He helps guide those he leads as how to be faithful in what God has called them to do. Greg has learned that much of his culture's upbringing missed the biblical beauty of true relationships with Jesus. Greg wants to live that now, and help people understand the wide variety of opportunities for those wanting to make a difference.https://eu.edu/senior-leadership-team/

In this episode of Next Step Leadership Podcast, Chris and Tracy continue their conversation with Landon Rowell. Landon's story fits many young leaders. Called to ministry in some way, but not totally sure of what that really means. Sensing a deep desire to make a difference in God's kingdom, Landon took the right classes and began working in new areas. He has continued learning and adjusting. He has kept a kind and serving heart. He works hard, finishes tasks, and maintains a healthy attitude as he serves. Days don't need to be wasted. Study. Learn. Listen. Laugh. Experiment. Work hard. Stay humble. Ministry has many ways of serving. Use your gifts and areas of interest. God can guide you right where you are needed.The Empty Chair Video: https://youtu.be/QfSpT-vcQdo?si=1_ymVUsrHdYzyVw7https://jaggedrockmedia.com/about/

Landon Rowell wasn't on the original schedule to be interviewed by Chris and Tracy. Landon was serving and helping. He was setting everything up for the podcast. What Landon didn't know was that his story needed to be heard. So instead of just letting him stay “behind the scenes,” Chris and Tracy wanted his story heard. They believe the younger generation of leaders brings a variety of perspectives and talents. They remember Landon's days as a college student when he was learning not just academic information, but learning about himself. Listen to his story. Learn about yourself. Think about how you are also still learning where you fit, what you're good at doing, what you're grieving, and what you can do to shape the future. Not all routes are straight and simple. Sharp turns and new streets are a part of life. Continue serving and helping. Even when you're not on the screen's agenda, do your part. During times of hurt and uncertainty, do your part. The Empty Chair Video: https://youtu.be/QfSpT-vcQdo?si=1_ymVUsrHdYzyVw7https://jaggedrockmedia.com/about/

In this episode of Next Step Leadership, Tracy and Chris continue their conversation with Charles Powell. It's a deep story about life—about a life of wounds and braces and pain. Today's leaders can only lead correctly when first applying the importance of self-care and deep healing. Dangerous Skills: A Memoir of the Me You Never Knew is the new book Charles has written. On its pages, he reveals years of questions, of conflict, of near death experiences, of tension, and of the search to know God's plan. Charles could have given up. But he did not. He has endured. And now he invests his energy in helping other people be rescued and find ways to develop their own skills. How can you apply the hopes Charles mentions about finding ways to help people come, learn, grow, and go? How can you have the right friends beside you who will guide you? Who is beside you? How can they have a crucial vote in your life? Your memoir is still being written.https://jaggedrockmedia.com/about/Dangerous Skills Podcast - https://jaggedrockmedia.podbean.comNot In My Town book - https://www.amazon.com/Not-My-Town-Trafficking-Modern-Day/dp/1596693010

Charles Powell of LifeSprings and Jagged Rock Media, is today's guest in Next Step Leadership. Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds have known Charles many years and wanted their podcast's audience to hear his story. Through his work in security, reaching people from human trafficking, studio production, and writing, Charles helps leaders become better aware of their personal formation. As you listen to his story, hear what Charles said about his upcoming book which reveals deep hurt from his past. The braces may have been removed from his legs, but not from his heart. How do your past wounds influence you? How do those scars impact your behavior, your thoughts, and your relationships? Write down what you learned from the story Charles tells. Include steps you should take to move toward healing. The braces on our legs from the past can still impact how we take steps in life. Instead of covering up our deep wounds, we can identify our masks, know God deeply, and find true healing.https://jaggedrockmedia.com/about/https://jaggedrockmedia.podbean.comNot In My Town book - https://www.amazon.com/Not-My-Town-Trafficking-Modern-Day/dp/1596693010

Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds usually have guests on their weekly podcast Next Step Leadership. Some weeks, like this one, the conversation includes only Chris and Tracy. These two men have known each other for almost two decades. They've worked together, served together, and led together. They continue hoping to learn together. Listen as they offer their latest thoughts on serving and leading in today's uncertain culture. Where are you now? Where are you going in the future? Who is traveling with you? What can you do to reach the goals God has given you? How can you be sure to take consistent steps, and the correct steps, in this season of your life? What are you best at doing? Why are you doing what you're doing? What are you regularly doing that you should give up? Are you making a difference? Who are you allowing to help you evaluate your life? How do your jobs bring stress? Sit across the table with the right people who will help lead you as you ask those questions and as you lead others.https://chrismaxwell.me/https://www.ctracyreynolds.com/

Dr. Chris Green continues as this week's guest on Next Step Leadership. He again invites listeners to come to the table. Merging the past of Christ's life and death, and the future life with Christ, he brings the table to our present stories. Through his writing and teaching and arts, Dr. Green brings new thoughts to his tradition. Let his story invite you to a deeper understanding of God's artwork. Allow his words of scholarly spirituality be practical, real, and valuable. Communication is something machines do. People commune with each other. Refuse to see God as the mechanic. Let God be your artist, let God be your guide. Undo what has held us back in unhealthy ways. Grasp a greater truth of valuable tradition. Write a list of points from his thoughts. Plan to apply what you have learned.https://www.cewgreen.com/

Author, clergy, and scholar Chris Green is this week's guest on Next Step Leadership. Through Dr. Green's years of ministry in the church, academic, and literature sides of our world, he has learned many lessons of leadership. He thinks deeply and connects with many populations. In this first episode with Tracy and Chris, Dr. Green tells his story of growing up in a church environment. He talks about his calling. He talks about his questions. He talks about lessons learned and wounds being healed. He talks about theology. Listen to his story. Think about his scholarship. What does the Lord's Supper mean to you? How is Communion a center part of the story? What parts of his narrative relate to you? What can you learn from his preaching, pastoring, and tradition? Receive wisdom from his brilliance and his regular communion with God.https://www.cewgreen.com/