The Better Together Podcast with Callie and Rosario "Roz" Picardo

Send us a textWhat if rest isn't a reward for finishing your work—but the place where your real work begins?In this episode, Rosario talks with Peter White, Anglican priest, spiritual director, and founder of The Sabbath Life, about why sabbath isn't just for church leaders—it's for all of us. Together, they explore how slowing down helps us become more human, not less, and how sabbath rhythms can lead to deeper joy, healing, and purpose.You'll hear:The heart behind The Sabbath LifeHow to resist hustle culture and embrace sacred restWhy rest isn't lazy or optional—it's foundationalThe surprising ways God meets us when we stop strivingIf you're feeling stretched thin or wondering if there's more to life than just keeping up, this conversation will speak peace to your soul.Learn more at: www.thesabbathlife.comSupport the show

Send us a textIn this episode, we sit down with pastor, entrepreneur, and author Joe Graves to explore how a spirit of innovation can breathe new life into church leadership. Joe shares candid insights from his own church planting journey—what sparked it, what surprised him, and how his entrepreneurial instincts have shaped both the triumphs and tensions along the way.​We also dive into his latest book, The Progressive Planter: A Handbook for Ecclesial Entrepreneurs, which offers practical guidance for launching inclusive, theologically grounded churches that resonate with today's communities. From spiritual rhythms to practical advice, Joe offers wisdom for anyone looking to step out in faith and lead boldly in the Church today.​Explore more about Joe Graves and his work at www.joegraves.orgCheck out The Progressive Planter at CokesburySupport the show

Send us a textIn this episode, we sit down with Rev. Dustin Mailman, founding pastor of Deep Time in Asheville, North Carolina. Dustin shares the story behind this innovative faith community rooted in radical hospitality, restorative justice, and opportunities for returning citizens.With a background in traditional ministry and a heart for creative expressions of the Church, Dustin explores what it means to build spiritual community alongside social impact. Whether you're in church leadership or simply curious about new ways to live out the Gospel, this conversation will challenge and inspire.

Send us a textIn this inspiring episode of Better Together, we sit down with Charles DiRico, the visionary behind Word on the Street—a growing network of dinner churches reaching nearly 400 people weekly. Charles shares the powerful story of how this movement began with simple meals and has grown into a vibrant ministry rooted in worship, community, and mutual transformation.Charles discusses the evolution of dinner churches, the importance of listening and loving as we follow Jesus into the streets, and the deep connections formed across economic and social lines. He also shares about Word on the Street's next chapter: launching a social enterprise to employ neighbors experiencing homelessness and create bridges with new residents in their gentrifying neighborhood—all through a shared cup of coffee.Tune in to hear how this ministry is offering more than meals—it's creating space for dignity, relationship, and the gospel in action.

Send us a textIn this episode of Better Together, I sit down with Rev. Dr. Rob Hutchinson to explore the vital role of the Holy Spirit in Christian community and decision-making. Rob shares his passion for fostering spiritually discerning church gatherings, advocating for a listen-first approach that prioritizes trust, mutual submission, and a shift in priorities toward collaborative discernment.  We discuss how churches can move from debate to dialogue, cultivate a culture of openness to the Spirit's leading, and implement practical steps for Spirit-guided meetings. Rob also introduces The Futuring Church Project, a resource designed to help church leaders integrate these practices into their communities.  

Send us a textIn this episode, I sit down with Travis Smith, a doctoral student researching the loneliness epidemic, a pastor, counseling center operator, and adjunct professor. We explore the deep impact of loneliness on individuals and communities, the role of faith in fostering meaningful relationships, and practical ways to cultivate authentic connection in an increasingly isolated world. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that sheds light on this pressing issue and offers hope for genuine belonging.Support the show

Send us a textDr. John McGill, founder of We Do EQ, helps leaders grow in their emotional intelligence. One of the major currencies of leadership is trust, but there are different ways to demonstrate you are trustworthy. On this episode of the Better Together Podcast, Dr. McGill unpacks the different components of trust to help leaders grow and create cultures of trust.Support the show

Send us a textHow do you plan for your life, your family, and/or your organization with God? Dr. Elaine Heath is an author, speaker, retreat leader, consultant, farmer and Abbess who leads the new monastic community Spring Forest. She offers a different path from the traditional models of strategic planning and outcome-based goals that creates space for discerning God's direction. As you figure out God's leading for what is next, Dr. Heath offers a refreshing joy-filled approach to planning grounded in Celtic Christianity and open to the leading of the Holy Spirit.For more about Elaine, check out her website:  https://www.elaineaheath.org/Support the show

Send us a textWith the holidays, clutter, and just the daily struggle to keep a house clean, it can feel like an added weight to practice hospitality and invite others into your home. It can also be a source of shame. Author and decluttering expert, Dana K. White discovered God's grace through the struggle of a messy home, and offers both spiritual and practical insights from her new book Jesus Doesn't Care About Your Messy House. Whether you need some inspiration to start decluttering or an extra measure of God's grace in your life, we hope you are blessed by the conversation.Support the show

Send us a textMissiologist and pastor Daniel Yang and journalist Adelle Banks are co-authors with church researcher Warren Bird of the groundbreaking work Becoming a Future Ready Church. They unpack 8 trends the Church can adjust for now to be ready for the ministry the church needs to do in 2050. They beautifully inspire hope without condemnation to equip the Church to carry the mission of Jesus Christ to the world around us.Support the show

Send us a textOn this episode of Better Together, we're joined by author and ministry expert Jason Moore to explore the fascinating intersection of artificial intelligence and the church. In his latest book, AI and the Church, Jason provides a clear roadmap for church leaders navigating the rapidly changing world of AI. We dive into practical ways AI can be harnessed for ministry, from streamlining administrative tasks to enhancing worship experiences. But we also tackle the tough questions: What ethical boundaries should guide the church's use of AI? How do we ensure that our engagement with AI aligns with biblical principles? Whether you're intrigued or concerned by AI, this conversation offers thoughtful insights and practical wisdom for leading your church into the future with courage and integrity. Tune in for a compelling discussion on faith, technology, and the future of ministry!Support the show

Send us a textSeedbed Publishing President, Dr. Ivan Filby, is the author of Speak Tenderly: Prophetic Ministry Seasoned with Grace. He joins the Better Together podcast to share practical tools and stories of hearing the Holy Spirit speak personally and through prophecy. If you want to learn to discern the voice of the Holy Spirit, this episode is for you.Support the show

Send us a textWhat if God is calling you to be an unlikely hero? Author, professor, and biblical scholar Dr. Sandra Richter joins the Better Together Podcast to help us apply deep theological truths from the story of Deborah based on her new Epic of Eden bible study. While all of our podcasts are for men and women, female listeners who feel called to lead will find a mentor's voice in Dr. Richter's wisdom.Support the show

Send us a textThe Black Church has been studied from sociological and justice perspectives, but Professor, Preacher, Consultant and Speaker, Dr. Walter R. Stickland II noticed a missing piece: the theology that has shaped Black Christianity throughout history into the present. Like a choir with the altos missing, Strickland explains, he wants to lift up a missing part of the harmony. Join us to listen to the beautiful music of his new release Swing Low.Support the show

Send us a textLove seems like the most over-discussed topic in Christianity, but what if we still don't fully understand it? Dr. Joe Dongell offers a fresh, deep perspective of love that is sure to ignite your passion for God once again. Join us as we learn from Dr. Dongell and his newest work The Most Excellent Way: John Wesley's Theology of Love.Support the show

Send us a textWhat role does anxiety play in the Church? As Americans start paying more attention to mental health, what role can Christians play in the healing process? Author and professor, Rev. Dr. Michael Jordan joins the Better Together podcast to share ways laity and clergy can point people to Christ with integrity in an Age of Anxiety.Support the show

Send us a textOur finances (good, bad and everything in between) are often symptoms of what is going on underneath. Let's go beneath the surface as we explore some of the lies we tell ourselves and the strongholds hindering our financial progress. For more, check out Healthy Money: A 30-Day Journey toward Spiritual, Emotional, and Financial Freedom. Use discount code IPPICARDO30 to get 30% off the book or kit at: https://www.inviteresources.com/lp/healthy-money-kitSupport the show

Send us a textOur experiences with money shape us, but we don't always stop to notice how. In God's hands, even the worst experiences can be used to draw us deeper in our faith and grow us as disciples of Jesus Christ. Join us as we unpack some of the teaching from our latest book Healthy Money. Use discount code IPPICARDO30 to get 30% off the book or kit at: https://www.inviteresources.com/lp/healthy-money-kitSupport the show

Send us a textIn this week's episode of the Healthy Money podcast series, we dive into the topic of "Childhood Money Memories" and how they shape the way we think about and handle finances today. What memories from your childhood impact your relationship with money today? Were you raised in a home where money was talked about openly or was it a source of tension?Join Rosario and Callie Picardo as they explore their own personal stories of childhood money memories, discuss the influence of family on financial habits, and offer practical steps to navigate a healthier financial future. Support the show

Send us a textWhy is it so challenging to align what we know about money with what we actually do? Join us in this episode as we dive into the Healthy Money Mindset Assessment, a free tool designed to help you discover your unique financial mindset.Created by authors Rosario and Callie Picardo, this 17-question survey offers real-time results and a personalized PDF to help you understand which of the five money mindsets shapes your financial habits. Your mindset affects more than just your spending; it influences every aspect of your financial life.Learn how identifying your money mindset can bring deeper healing, transform your relationship with money, and set you free to fully own your financial future. Plus, discover how our 5-week guided journey in Healthy Money can take you beyond budgets and bank balances to the emotional and spiritual roots of your money patterns.Take the Free Healthy Money Mindset Assessment: https://app.agolix.com/assessment/24830Support the show

Send us a textOn this episode of the podcast, we welcome Matt Lake, pastor and author of Crossing the Discipleship Chasm. Matt shares insights from his new book, offering a transformative approach to adaptive discipleship that bridges the gap between cultural obstacles and the church's original mission. He challenges us to move beyond quick fixes and embrace a dynamic path forward, reviving the journey of following Jesus in a changing world. Discover how to navigate the tensions and lead others with confidence and courage.Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode, we sit down with Dr. Matt O'Reilly to discuss his new book, Free to Be Holy. Much of the gospel you've heard might focus on hope for the next life, forgiveness, and freedom from guilt. But what about freedom from the sin itself? Free to Be Holy shines a light on the often-overlooked part of the gospel: holiness for this life. Dr. O'Reilly unpacks what it truly means to embody God's character and live in perfect love, emphasizing that holiness isn't just about avoiding sin—it's about becoming fully human and faithfully representing God's mission in the world. Tune in to explore this transformative view of holiness, and discover practical ways to integrate these truths into your daily walk with Christ.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.From the vantage of a medical missionary doctor in West Africa, Dr. Ryan Porter was struck by the Gospel Deficiency in the United States, when he returned home. It inspired him to write a book about renewal and revival, offering practical tools and encouragement for Christians as we learn to share our faith with the world. Join the conversation with Dr. Ryan Porter as he shares insights from his new book Gospelsick: A Missionary Doctor's Prescription for Church Revival.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.We welcome Caleb Ingram, the visionary leader behind Declare Dayton. In this episode, Caleb shares how his initiative is uniting churches to transform lives and communities in Dayton and across Ohio. Learn about the powerful ways Declare Dayton rallies churches, partners with community leaders, and equips people to spread God's love through service and worship. Discover how collective action can create an enduring impact, fostering hope, healing, and restoration in a world filled with division. Tune in to be inspired by stories of unity and transformation that prove we are truly better together.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.Stephanie Moore Hand and Michael Beck explore how pastors and congregations can use Scripture to foster racial harmony, justice, and liberation within their church communities. Our episodes guide you through four practical pathways to identify and address unjust patterns in church life, share inspiring success stories from diverse leaders, and reveal how these changes can lead to healing and hope. Join us to learn how to gracefully transform your church into a beacon of inclusivity and a fresh expression of faith in your community. Tune in and begin your journey towards a church re-envisioned!Support the Show.

Rev. Dr. Sarah Baldwin was one of the small team of individuals shepherding the outpouring of the Holy Spirit that began in February 2023 at Asbury University and soon rippled out to impact the world. She shares her eyewitness account, how it impacted her personally, what she's seeing in Gen Z, and the continued impact of the outpouring today.Support the Show.

Bishop Frank Beard leads the Illinois Great Rivers Conference of the United Methodist Church, but first, he is a disciple of Jesus and a man of prayer. Bishop Beard shares his journey that started with cookies and kool-aid to prayer as a pastor in a hospital room to a prayer closet in his basement to a breakthrough prayer initiative that is catching fire throughout his annual conference. Join us to be inspired and encouraged in your own prayer life with Jesus.Support the show

Rev. Jill Beck pastors three churches in Florida, including the newly launched Compassion Church. She shares her journey from domestic violence victim to healing to answering God's call and now helping others. Let her journey inspire and challenge you.Support the show

Combining faith and recovery, Pastor Greg Delaney returns to the Better Together Podcast this week to share how Christians can walk alongside loved ones struggling with addiction and how the Church can play a role in recovery. Greg works with churches across the country as well as the state and national government to advocate for faith-based recovery.Support the show

Pastor Greg Delaney is a leader in the recovery community, locally with boots on the ground but also at the state and national level. This week on the Better Together Podcast, Greg shares his story and how the possibility of life gave him the hope to overcome addiction one day at a time.Support the show

On this episode of the "Better Together Podcast," Pastor Roz explores the power of boundaries through personal anecdotes and scripture. Roz skillfully blends practical guidance with spiritual insights, emphasizing the critical role boundaries play in fostering health in relationships, personal well-being, and spiritual development. Drawing from biblical examples, including the life of Jesus, this sermon offers listeners a roadmap to living a balanced life marked by respect and integrity. It's a compelling listen for anyone seeking to navigate life's challenges with grace and strength.Support the show

Most people are naturally resistant to change, so how do you create a culture that's open and innovative? Brad Aycock, Director of Fresh Starts and New Beginnings for the West Ohio Conference of the United Methodist Church, has worked to do just that throughout the conference, and helped churches and leaders shift the culture within their own congregations. He joins the Better Together podcast to share wisdom and insights from his own journey.Support the show

In this episode of our podcast, we delve into Callie Picardo's sermon "New Year's Rhythm - Slowing," based on Isaiah 40:28-31. Callie shares a personal story of overwhelming busyness and the need for slowing down in life. She challenges listeners to examine their own life pace, exploring themes of rest, renewal, and recovery. Drawing on the scripture from Isaiah and insights from the book "The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry" by John Mark Comer, Callie encourages embracing a rhythm of life that allows for spiritual and emotional rejuvenation. Through her sermon, we are invited to consider the importance of slowing down, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally, to better align with God's pace and find strength in Him.Support the show

Discover the lost art of rest in our 'New Year's Rhythm Sabbath' podcast episode. We delve into the transformative power of observing the Sabbath, a practice deeply rooted in spiritual tradition yet often overlooked in our fast-paced world. Learn how embracing this day of rest, worship, and delight can combat the relentless pursuit of productivity and accumulation that dominates modern life. Join us as we explore the historical and contemporary significance of the Sabbath, and uncover the profound impact it can have on our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.Support the show

In this podcast episode, we delve into the theme of "Simplicity" from Pastor Roz's sermon at Mosaic Church. Emphasizing the need for a simpler life, Pastor Roz shares his personal journey of transitioning from a fast-paced, multitasking lifestyle to embracing rhythms of Sabbath, simplicity, solitude, and slowing down. Drawing from the teachings of Jesus in the Gospel of Luke and insights from John Mark Comer's book, "Ruthless Elimination of Hurry," this episode explores the profound yet challenging concept of simplicity. We'll discuss how to discern what truly matters, finding joy in less, and living in alignment with God's will through simplicity. Join us as we uncover the beauty and necessity of a simpler, more intentional life.Support the show

Instead of a New Year's resolution, what about a New Year's prayer, a prayer opening yourself up to God-possibilities and breakthroughs in your life? Author, pastor, and leader Sue Nilson Kibbey has helped countless individuals, churches, and groups add breakthrough prayers to their rhythm and seen God move in incredible ways. If you are ready for that to happen in your own life, join us for this week's episode of The Better Together Podcast.Support the show

When crisis comes, the words that guided Jesus can be a guide to us. Pastor and author Jim Harnish unpacks some of these Old Testament words that grounded Jesus to provide insight for us today. It's one more way Jesus helps us find our bearings in life.Support the show

In the concluding episode of our 'A Full Circle Christmas' series, we explore 'The Prophecy of a Ruler from Bethlehem.' This finale focuses on the powerful prophecy from Micah 5:2-4, predicting the birth of a ruler in the modest town of Bethlehem and its fulfillment as detailed in Matthew 2:1-12. This episode illuminates how this significant prophecy not only underscores the miraculous birth of Jesus but also symbolizes the essence of worshiping a King. As we conclude our journey, we reflect on the overarching themes of prophecy, fulfillment, and divine orchestration. Join us in this celebratory finale as we bring together the threads of the series, reaffirming the wonder of Christmas and the worship-worthy majesty of Jesus, born in Bethlehem as the culmination of God's grand narrative.Support the show

In this episode of 'A Full Circle Christmas,' titled 'The Prophecy of a King,' we delve into the royal lineage of Jesus Christ. Unpacking the prophecy from 2 Samuel 7 and its fulfillment in Matthew 1:1-17, this episode highlights Jesus' descent from King David. We explore the genealogy of Christ, understanding how his kingly heritage was foretold and fulfilled, bridging the Old and New Testaments. Join us in tracing the royal bloodline of Jesus, revealing the sovereign plan of God and the majestic identity of Christ as King.Support the show

Continue your journey with 'A Full Circle Christmas' in the episode focused on 'The Prophecy of a Nazarene.' This enlightening segment explores the humble origins of Jesus in Nazareth, as prophesied in Isaiah and various other scriptures. We delve into how Jesus' life in Nazareth fulfills the ancient prophecies of the Messiah as the 'Branch,' symbolizing humility and hope. Discover the surprising significance of Nazareth, its prophetic implications, and how this aligns with Jesus' role as both a humble and mighty Messiah in God's redemptive plan.Support the show

Embark on a spiritual journey with 'A Full Circle Christmas,' starting with the episode on 'The Virgin Birth Prophecy.' This podcast unveils the intricate tapestry of prophecy and fulfillment surrounding Jesus' birth. We trace Isaiah 7:14's prophecy of a virgin birth and its affirmation in Matthew 1:18-25, exploring the deep connections between the Old and New Testaments. This episode illuminates the divine plan and the profound implications of Jesus' miraculous birth, setting the stage for a Christmas filled with awe and wonder.Support the show

It's hard to stand out in a competitive job market, and it is also challenging to find the right person when you hire. Yet William Vanderbloemen, author, founder and CEO of The Vanderbloemen Search Group, found 12 habits that 30,000 top leaders share, that most anyone can learn to stand out from the rest. Join us as he shares insights from his new book Be the Unicorn: 12 Data-Driven Habits that Separate the Best Leaders from the Rest.Support the show

In the midst of the traditions and predictability of Christmas, what if God wants to surprise you? The first Christmas was full of surprises, both good and challenging. Author and Pastor Scott Chrostek joins us to unpack some of those surprises and invites us into a posture of openness with insights from his new book Advent: A Season of Surprises.Support the show

This episode explores 'Handling Conflict,' inspired by Paul and Barnabas in Acts 15. We face conflicts daily, and our response shapes our growth and relationships. We examine how Paul and Barnabas managed their disagreement, extracting practical and spiritual lessons applicable in our lives. This sermon guides us in resolving conflicts with understanding and grace, emphasizing the importance of reconciliation and compassion. Join us for insights into transforming conflict into a path for personal and communal growth.Support the show

A powerful step deeper in the Christian faith is to explore the writings of the saints of the Church through the ages. Author and pastor Dr. Maxie Dunnam makes those writings accessible in his 40-day devotional Saints Alive. Who are some of those saints and what can we learn from them in our walk with God today as we live out our faith in community?Support the show

Being a lefty in a right-handed world is challenging, but there are many other challenges (for instance health, mental, relational, or organizational) that make life harder. What if instead of wishing the challenges away, you embraced the hand you were dealt with and grew? Author, pastor, and bishop, Dr. Lisa Weah helps us do just that as she joins the podcast to share insights from her book Leading with a Left Hand.Support the show

In an increasingly disconnected world, author Shannan Martin offers simple ways to live as neighbors. It doesn't have to be fussy or complicated. Shannan takes the pressure off with practical and easy ways to build community from her book Start with Hello.Support the show

How do you share your faith in a secular culture, more effectively make disciples of Jesus, and lead through hard times? As a pastor, author, and leader of the Dinner Church Collective for Fresh Expressions, Verlon Fosner has learned the power for all of that in the Jesus stories found in the Gospels. Join us as we rediscover our own excitement for the stories of Jesus and learn how to share them with others.Support the show

Christmas is supposed to be filled with hope, joy, peace, and love, but often it's a time of worry, conflict, misery, and selfishness instead. Author and pastor, Dan Metzger shares insights from the first Christmas in his new book How (Not) to Ruin Christmas that reclaim Christmas. Join us and plan for a better Christmas this year.Support the show

How do you know when you are experiencing a Kingdom moment that might be so defining it turns into a movement? What do you do if you feel stuck and like you keep missing those moments? Pastor and author of Kingdom Moments and Movements, Rev. Robert Glenn Johnson unpacks those questions and more, as well as their implications for leaders, parents, social activists, and individual Christ-followers. Support the show

Being a Christian is not about trying to be happy all the time. There is a deeper joy that comes from being real and going through healing. Counselor, life coach, author, and rapper, Holly Mutlu shares wisdom from her life and book Joy Is My Jam. Are you ready to move from toxic positivity to real joy?Support the show