Podcast appearances and mentions of Chris Maxwell

Story, Loss, and Lessons from CounselingIn this episode, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds welcome Blake Rackley for a deeply personal and meaningful conversation. Dr. Rackley shares his life story, including the profound impact of his son Jon Michael, and how those experiences have shaped his calling in counseling and ministry. Drawing from years of walking with others through pain and healing, he reflects on the life lessons he has learned along the way. This episode offers both honesty and hope for anyone navigating grief, loss, or the complexities of caring for others.LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/blake-rackley-0a412b57/Facebooks - https://www.facebook.com/blake.rackley.2025

EPISODE 2 — Brianna LambertMessage, Application, and ConnectionContinuing the conversation, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds talk with Brianna Lambert about the deeper message of her book and how it applies to everyday life. Brianna shares practical ways readers can engage her work individually or in group settings, along with suggestions for living out its message. She also discusses how listeners can connect with her and continue learning from her journey. This episode offers clear takeaways and encouragement for those seeking to grow in faith, perspective, and purpose.https://briannalambert.com/Brianna's books - https://www.amazon.com/stores/Brianna-Janelle-Lambert/author/B0FQ6TGG5W?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=c59036c6-c95c-455d-a595-f0019fec0e2e

EPISODE 1 — Brianna LambertStory, Formation, and CallingIn this episode of Next Step Leadership Podcast, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds welcome Brianna Lambert for a conversation about her personal journey of faith and leadership. Brianna shares the experiences that shaped her story, the lessons she has learned along the way, and how God has guided her into her current calling. She also introduces the heart behind her book, offering insight into the message she hopes will resonate with readers. This episode provides an honest and encouraging look at growth, purpose, and the ongoing process of becoming who God calls us to be.https://briannalambert.com/Brianna's books - https://www.amazon.com/stores/Brianna-Janelle-Lambert/author/B0FQ6TGG5W?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=c59036c6-c95c-455d-a595-f0019fec0e2e

08-30-2026Rev. Chris Maxwell

EPISODE 2 — Chuck & Sherry QuinleyReJesus, Writing, and Encouragement for OthersIn this follow-up conversation, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds continue with Chuck and Sherry Quinley, focusing on their current work and the message they are sharing today. They talk about their podcast ReJesus, the heart behind their writing and teaching, and how their message connects with today's culture and church. Chuck and Sherry also offer encouragement to leaders who may feel weary or uncertain, reminding listeners of the importance of returning to Jesus at the center of everything. This episode provides both inspiration and practical encouragement for those seeking to live and lead with renewed focus and faith.

08-23-2026Rev. Chris Maxwell

EPISODE 1 — Chuck & Sherry QuinleyTheir Story, Calling, and MinistryIn this episode of Next Step Leadership Podcast, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds welcome Chuck Quinley and Sherry Quinley for a meaningful conversation about their journey of faith and ministry. Chuck and Sherry share how they each came to know and follow Jesus, and how God brought their lives together in a shared calling. Reflecting on years of ministry experience, they discuss the moments that shaped their purpose and the passion that continues to guide their work. This episode offers a glimpse into a life of faithful obedience, rooted in love for Christ and a desire to serve others.

08-16-2026Rev. Chris Maxwell

08-09-2026Rev. Chris Maxwell

Continuing their conversation, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds talk with the General Superintendent of the Assemblies of God, Doug Clay, about the realities facing pastors and churches today. Doug discusses key concerns for ministry leaders, cultural shifts affecting the church, and the pressures many pastors experience in today's environment. At the same time, he shares hopeful trends and signs of renewal that encourage him about the future of the church. Doug concludes with words of wisdom from his books and encourages ministers who are seeking to lead faithfully in a rapidly changing world.https://ag.org/About/Leadership-Team/General-SuperintendentFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/DougClayAG/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dougclayag/Linked In - https://www.linkedin.com/in/doug-clay-89aa3b58/X (Twitter) - https://x.com/dougclayAmazon Author's page - https://www.amazon.com/stores/Doug-Clay/author/B0F3Z6Y66L?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=c4578a0e-38e4-4f81-9f22-3e0508757317

We had the privilege of sitting down for former goalkeeper Chris Maxwell as he discussed his career in football and what he's doing now. We also discussed his time with the Seasiders and how hard football was under Covid, the influence of different managers and how he dealt with difficult times with us. All this and more. Enjoy!

In this episode, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds welcome Doug Clay, General Superintendent of the Assemblies of God. Doug shares his personal story of faith and calling, reflecting on the experiences that shaped his journey in ministry and leadership. From early ministry opportunities to serving in one of the most influential leadership roles in the Assemblies of God, Doug discusses the lessons God has taught him along the way. His reflections offer encouragement and wisdom for leaders seeking to serve with humility, integrity, and faithfulness.https://ag.org/About/Leadership-Team/General-SuperintendentFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/DougClayAG/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dougclayag/Linked In - https://www.linkedin.com/in/doug-clay-89aa3b58/X (Twitter) - https://x.com/dougclayAmazon Author's page - https://www.amazon.com/stores/Doug-Clay/author/B0F3Z6Y66L?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=c4578a0e-38e4-4f81-9f22-3e0508757317

07-29-2026Rev. Chris Maxwell

Continuing the conversation, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds talk with Clay Dial about the realities of life in ministry today. Clay shares honestly about the joys that energize him as a pastor and the challenges that come with serving in the church. The discussion explores trends in the church that concern him, developments that give him hope, and the lessons he has learned early in his ministry journey. Clay concludes by offering encouragement and practical advice to young leaders who are stepping into ministry and seeking to serve faithfully.https://www.cstone.church/leadership/The Saltbox podcast - https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/saltbox-a-cstone-church-podcast--5016338

07-22-2026Rev. Chris Maxwell

In this episode of Next Step Leadership Podcast, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds welcome Pastor Clay Dial for a conversation about calling, faith, and the journey of a young minister. Clay shares his personal story of coming to love Jesus and sensing God's call on his life. He reflects on the experiences that shaped his faith, including his time at Emmanuel University, and how those years helped prepare him for ministry. This conversation offers insight into the formation of a new generation of leaders and the passion that continues to guide Clay's work today.https://www.cstone.church/leadership/The Saltbox podcast - https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/saltbox-a-cstone-church-podcast--5016338

Continuing the conversation, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds talk with Peter Greer about long-term leadership health, accountability, and resilience. This episode focuses on his book How Leaders Lose Their Way: And How to Make Sure It Doesn't Happen to You. Greer provides practical ways leaders can remain grounded amid pressure, success, and responsibility. Learn from conversations about pastoral and leadership pressure, and how no one expected to make the poor choices they made. Peter offers wisdom on shared leadership, spiritual and emotional safeguards, and the habits that help leaders stay faithful over the long haul. Listeners will be encouraged to lead with humility, integrity, and a renewed commitment to sustainable, Christ-centered leadership.https://www.peterkgreer.com/https://www.peterkgreer.com/books/https://www.hopeinternational.org/

07-15-2026Rev. Chris Maxwell

07-08-2026Rev. Chris Maxwell

In this episode, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds welcome global leader and author Peter Greer for an honest discussion about leadership calling, drift, and integrity. Drawing from How Leaders Lose Their Way: And How to Make Sure It Doesn't Happen to You, Peter shares insights from his leadership journey and research into the subtle patterns that often lead leaders off course. Leadership can be a dangerous place to live. We can learn from the failures of others. The conversation explores warning signs of drift, the dangers of isolation, and the importance of accountability in sustaining faithful leadership over time. Peter encourages us to not just know what others have done wrong, but to humbly make sure it doesn't happen to us. https://www.peterkgreer.com/https://www.peterkgreer.com/books/https://www.hopeinternational.org/

We often forget that questions can shape culture, faith, and community. In this follow-up conversation, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds continue their dialogue with J.R. Briggs, focusing on how better questions shape organizational culture, spiritual formation, and community life. J.R. reflects on how curiosity builds trust, prevents isolation, and creates environments where people feel heard and valued. The episode offers practical wisdom for leaders seeking to cultivate thoughtful teams, healthier conversations, and deeper faith through intentional questioning rather than quick conclusions. The Art of Asking Better Questions: Pursuing Stronger Relationships, Healthier Leadership, and Deeper Faith is a book needed in today's culture. Kairos Partnerships - https://www.kairospartnerships.org/aboutResilient Leaders Podcast - https://www.kairospartnerships.org/podcastshttps://www.amazon.com/stores/J.-R.-Briggs/author/B001K8DD78?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=7dc495b0-1344-467d-aa98-1d5dc5aeae18

In this episode, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds welcome pastor and author J.R. Briggs for a rich conversation about curiosity, calling, and the transformative role of questions in leadership and faith. Drawing from The Art of Asking Better Questions: Pursuing Stronger Relationships, Healthier Leadership, and Deeper Faith, J.R. shares his personal journey and the experiences that shaped his pastoral heart and leadership philosophy. The discussion highlights why leaders often default to answers instead of questions and how curiosity can strengthen relationships, deepen faith, and foster healthier leadership cultures. Welcome curiosity. And be ready for interesting, inspiring, and challenging questions--too often forgotten in this world of brief, shallow chats. Kairos Partnerships - https://www.kairospartnerships.org/aboutResilient Leaders Podcast - https://www.kairospartnerships.org/podcastshttps://www.amazon.com/stores/J.-R.-Briggs/author/B001K8DD78?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=7dc495b0-1344-467d-aa98-1d5dc5aeae18

06-14-2026Rev. Chris Maxwell

06-07-2026Rev. Chris Maxwell

05-31-2026Rev. Chris Maxwell

05-17-2026Rev. Chris Maxwell

05-03-2026Rev. Chris Maxwell

04-19-2026Rev. Chris Maxwell

04-12-2026Rev. Chris Maxwell

Continuing their conversation on the new book Contentment: What You're Searching for Is Already Yours, Tracy Reynolds and Chris Maxwell focus on the daily practice of contentment and its role in leadership, relationships, and spiritual growth. Chris offers practical insight into how individuals and groups can cultivate contentment through intentional rhythms, reflection, and community engagement. The episode explores how contentment reshapes leadership posture, reduces comparison, and encourages healthier, more grounded living. Listeners will also hear how Chris recommends using his book personally and in group settings for deeper formation and meaningful discussion. Do not miss this conversation and these invitations to find calm waters in a world of uncertainty. https://chrismaxwell.meFaceBook - https://www.facebook.com/PauseWithChrisMaxwellX (Twitter) - https://x.com/CMaxManLinked In - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-maxwell-5b24b93/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cmaxman/TruePotential Publishers - https://www.truepotentialmedia.com/chris-maxwell/

03-15-2026Rev. Chris Maxwell

03-22-2026Rev. Chris Maxwell

03-29-2026Rev. Chris Maxwell

03-08-2026Rev. Chris Maxwell

In this episode of Next Step Leadership podcast, Tracy Reynolds guides a thoughtful conversation with Chris Maxwell as Chris steps into the guest seat to discuss his newest book, Contentment: What You're Searching for Is Already Yours. Chris shares personal reflections on calling, restlessness, and the quiet search many leaders carry beneath their responsibilities. Together, they explore what contentment means in today's fast-paced culture, why faithful leaders often feel unsettled, and how spiritual formation shapes a deeper sense of peace. This conversation invites listeners to move beyond striving and rediscover the presence of contentment already at work in their lives and leadership. Maxwell's 13th book provides a wonderful opportunity for a different type of rewiring the brain. Thinking with contentment adds peace in a world of people feeling overwhelmed and unfulfilled. https://chrismaxwell.me/?fbclid=IwY2xjawQioy1leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETEyaHlwVWZnb0VDVFBYeDhzc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHvigkGrFTFu45ngb-zvx3zT2JQamEjNV_75-uH2-4ExjIIFTaaRdt8CZ7j2N_aem_8AFPe0Jn3XsRFoHEacv2XwFaceBook - https://www.facebook.com/chris.maxwell.359/https://chrismaxwell.me/books-2

In this episode, Chris and I explore multi-generational worship, what contentment truly is (and isn't), why we often resist healthy margin, and how to tell the difference between healthy ambition and unhealthy striving—plus much more.Quotes for Notes:“We assume peace is a prize waiting at a finish line that keeps moving.”“If we did not preach okay, can we be okay with that? Knowing that God is with us, He loves us anyway, and He might not be grading and ranking us like we are.”“God calls us to do those things that will only be accomplished by His power and His Presence.”Links:Amazon: http://bit.ly/cmaxmanWebsite:chrismaxwell.meFacebook: facebook.com/PauseWithChrisMaxwellTwitter:@CMaxManInstagram: CMaxMan  Podcast: https://nextstepleadership.buzzsprout.com/

In this episode of the Next Step Leadership Podcast, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds welcome Trudy Simmons for an honest and hope-filled conversation about leadership, healing, and faith. Trudy shares her powerful personal story—working through past speech challenges and learning disabilities to become a counselor, coach, and communicator serving leaders and ministries around the world.Together, they discuss the importance of safe places and safe people, the dangers of identity confusion and comparison, and what happens when trauma is left unaddressed. This episode offers deep encouragement for leaders who are learning to lead from wholeness rather than hidden wounds. Listen and receive hope, healing, and the courage to lead.https://trudysimmons.com/The Christian View - https://trudysimmons.com/the-christian-view/https://miltoncounseling.com/

In a world that rarely slows down, this episode invites leaders to rediscover the spiritual power of pause. Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds welcome pastor and author April Yamasaki for a reflective conversation about writing, stillness, and spiritual formation.April shares her journey as a writer, how the practice of pausing has shaped her life and ministry, and why intentional stillness is essential for spiritual growth. This episode offers gentle wisdom and practical guidance for leaders longing to listen more deeply, live more attentively, and lead from a place of quiet faithfulness.https://aprilyamasaki.com/

What does faithful pastoring look like in a changing world? In this episode of the Next Step Leadership Podcast, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds sit down with pastor and writer Travis Lowe for a thoughtful conversation about ministry, leadership, and hope.Travis shares his personal journey into pastoral life, the lessons he's learned through years of serving people, and how the landscape of ministry continues to shift. He also talks about the heart behind the HopeWords Writers Conference and why writing and storytelling matter for pastors and leaders today. This episode offers encouragement, perspective, and hope for anyone committed to leading well.IPHC Extension Loan Fund - https://www.facebook.com/iphcelfHopeWords Writers Conference - https://www.hopewords.org/

02-01-2026Rev. Chris Maxwell

In this opening conversation with acclaimed writer Kathleen Norris, Chris and Tracy welcome one of Chris Maxwell's all-time favorite authors into the Next Step Leadership studio. Kathleen shares the story behind her vocation—her upbringing, her journey of faith, and the experiences that shaped her distinctive voice as a poet, memoirist, and spiritual writer. The conversation explores the contemplative rhythms that have guided her life, the monastic influences woven through her work, and the deep connections she sees between faith and the ordinary moments of daily existence. Listeners are invited into a reflective, gentle, and profoundly human conversation with one of the most beloved Christian writers of our time. Welcome to the life and words of Kathleen Norris: a journey of faith, writing, and spiritual reflection.https://www.ivpress.com/Search?q=Kathleen+norrishttps://www.amazon.com/Rebecca-Sue-Sisters-Reflections-Disability/dp/1514011409

01-18-2026Rev. Chris Maxwell

01-11-2026Rev. Chris Maxwell

12-21-2025Rev. Chris Maxwell

12-28-2025Rev. Chris Maxwell

Episode 2 — Todd Korpi / AI Goes to Church: Wisdom for a Digital Age In this insightful and highly practical episode, Tracy Reynolds and Chris Maxwell dive with Todd Korpi into the central ideas of his book, AI Goes to Church: Pastoral Wisdom for Artificial Intelligence. Todd unpacks the opportunities, challenges, and ethical considerations facing today's church leaders as AI becomes part of everyday life and ministry. He offers grounded, pastoral guidance for how pastors can use AI responsibly, protect their communities, and remain deeply rooted in Christ while leading in an increasingly digital age. This episode is hopeful, actionable, and essential listening for leaders preparing for the future. The practical and pastoral applications for today's leaders need to be heard. https://www.toddkorpi.com/

In this inspiring first conversation, hosts Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds welcome Mary DeMuth—author, literary agent, podcaster, and storyteller. Chris shares how he first heard Mary speak at a conference, began reading her books, and eventually started communicating with her. Those conversations, along with the impact of her writing, led him to invite Mary to Next Step Leadership. In this episode, Mary tells her story—what shaped her life, how she began writing, and the ways God has guided her leadership through both spoken and written words. Her journey offers today's leaders practical encouragement: to take their own next steps faithfully and courageously, and to consider how words can shape the lives of those they serve.https://www.marydemuth.com/https://www.marydemuth.com/bookstore/

In this heartfelt episode, Tracy Reynolds and Chris Maxwell sit down with their longtime friend Stephen Jones, a leader who has dedicated his life to showing God's love to the younger generation. Stephen shares his personal testimony, weaving in stories about his family and the faithfulness of God through their journey. The conversation highlights how his calling has unfolded over the years, leading him into ministry with youth at the local church level, in denominational conference settings, and on the leadership team for IPHC youth. This episode offers both encouragement and perspective on how God shapes leaders through story, family, and faithful service.https://www.ccrdc.org/meet-the-teamhttps://iphc.org/discipleship/our-team/

In the second part of the conversation, Tracy Reynolds and Chris Maxwell dive deeper with Dr. John Plake into the urgent cultural questions raised at the end of Part 1. As editor-in-chief of the annual State of the Bible research, John brings clarity to what people really believe in today's society and how those beliefs are shaping the church. More than statistics, his reflections highlight the importance of leaders listening closely to the people they serve. He challenges pastors and Christian leaders to interpret the cultural landscape with wisdom, compassion, and biblical truth—so they can guide others toward spiritual formation in Christ. This episode offers both practical insight and hope for navigating ministry in a complex world.https://www.americanbible.org/the-mission/leadership/https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjohnplake/https://x.com/johnfplakehttps://www.amazon.com/Missionary-Expatriate-Effectiveness-Competencies-Missionaries/dp/9004313818/ref=sr_1_1?crid=20J9341IW9URP&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.f_KlDuBrPkFNli_9v3VeQg.Y9EkCgabou2X_lvJXm64CM1eljM3LExYbic6yOX-JgA&dib_tag=se&keywords=john+plake&qid=1759573391&s=books&sprefix=john+plake%2Cstripbooks%2C96&sr=1-1

In this first conversation, Tracy Reynolds and Chris Maxwell welcome Dr. John Farquhar Plake, Chief Innovation Officer at the American Bible Society. John begins by sharing his personal journey—more than three decades of ministry as a pastor, missionary, professor, and researcher—and how those experiences shaped his calling to connect research with ministry. Listeners hear about his heart for innovation, discipleship, and equipping leaders to understand how people grow in Christ. The episode closes with a crucial turn: John unpacks current cultural realities and what people today actually believe about life, faith, and Scripture. His insights as editor-in-chief of the annual State of the Bible research offers a wake-up call for leaders seeking to shepherd well in a rapidly changing world.https://www.americanbible.org/the-mission/leadership/https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjohnplake/https://x.com/johnfplakehttps://www.amazon.com/Missionary-Expatriate-Effectiveness-Competencies-Missionaries/dp/9004313818/ref=sr_1_1?crid=20J9341IW9URP&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.f_KlDuBrPkFNli_9v3VeQg.Y9EkCgabou2X_lvJXm64CM1eljM3LExYbic6yOX-JgA&dib_tag=se&keywords=john+plake&qid=1759573391&s=books&sprefix=john+plake%2Cstripbooks%2C96&sr=1-1