Podcasts about dmin

This week, we return to a lively conversation with Dr. Soong-Chan Rah, hosted by Octavio and Claire back in 2020. Here, they consider the need for the North American church to break free from Western cultural captivity and embrace the diversity of our communities in our gathered worship and theology. Soong-Chan emphasizes the importance of diversity, community, and authentic cultural expression in faith communities. If this conversation piques your interest, consider joining him in the classroom this summer. He will be teaching "Cultural Intelligence for a Changing Church" from July 6-10. Soong-Chan's BioSoong-Chan Rah is the Robert Boyd Munger Professor of Evangelism and Church Renewal at Fuller Theological Seminary. He holds a ThD from Duke Divinity School, with a primary field of study in theology and ethics, and a secondary field of study in American evangelical history. He also holds an MDiv and a DMin, with a concentration in urban ministry leadership, from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, as well as a ThM from Harvard University, with a thesis on the immigrant church.Dr. Rah has authored or co-authored over a half-dozen books, which have won many awards. These include The Next Evangelicalism: Freeing the Church from Western Cultural Captivity(IVP, 2009); Many Colors: Cultural Intelligence for a Changing Church (Moody, 2010); Prophetic Lament: A Call for Justice in Troubled Times (IVP, 2015); Return to Justice: Six Movements that Reignited Our Contemporary Evangelical Conscience (with Gary Vanderpol; Brazos, 2016); Unsettling Truths: The Ongoing, Dehumanizing Legacy of the Doctrine of Discovery (with Mark Charles; IVP, 2019); and Forgive Us: Confessions of a Compromised Faith (with Mae Elise Cannon, Lisa Sharon Harper, and Troy Jackson; Zondervan, 2014).Dr. Rah is an ordained pastor in the Evangelical Covenant Church and a member of the Academy for Evangelism in Theological Education, the American Academy of Religion, and the American Society of Missiology. He speaks on the topics of the witness of the church, cross-cultural ministry, and social justice at a wide range of academic conferences, seminaries, Christian colleges, local churches, denominational gatherings, and ministry conferences across the United States and around the world.Regent College PodcastThanks for listening. Please like, rate and review us on your podcast platform of choice and share this episode with a friend. Follow Us on Social MediaFacebookInstagramYoutubeKeep in TouchRegent CollegeSummer ProgramsRegent College Newsletter

What do you do when life feels dry, difficult, or uncertain?In this powerful sermon, Dr. Thomas L. Driver, PhD, DMin teaches through Psalm 63, one of David's most passionate expressions of worship, trust, and longing for God.Written during a difficult season in David's life, Psalm 63 reveals what it means to seek God wholeheartedly, find satisfaction in His presence, and remain faithful even in the wilderness.In this teaching, you will discover:✅ What it means to truly thirst for God✅ How to seek God's presence during difficult times✅ Finding strength, peace, and joy in the Lord✅ Why worship is powerful in every season of life✅ Lessons from David's unwavering faith and devotionWhether you are facing trials, seeking spiritual renewal, or wanting a deeper relationship with God, this message will encourage you to pursue Him with all your heart.

Today I'm joining in conversation with my friend James Bryan Smith to finally share something that's been in the works for over a year now. Jim is the author of The Good and Beautiful book series. A founding member of Richard J. Foster's spiritual renewal ministry, Renovaré, Smith is an ordained United Methodist Church minister and has served in various capacities in local churches. He earned his MDiv at Yale and his DMin at Fuller and is a theology professor at Friends University in Wichita, Kansas, where he also serves as the director of the Apprentice Institute for Christian Spiritual Formation. About a year ago he called me up with an idea for a way to serve writers. That's where our conversation today begins. Even if you aren't a writer, our conversation will, I hope, shed light on how ideas become reality, how sometimes a good idea takes a decade to grow, and the beauty of collaboration, patience, and moving at a human pace. I hope you'll listen in. LINKS + RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE: Learn more about the Formation Writers Guild The Good and Beautiful Series by James Bryan Smith Apprentice Institute for Christian Spiritual Formation Renovaré FIND EMILY ELSEWHERE: Leave a review on Apple Podcasts Download The Quiet Collection app Join The Soul Minimalist Substack Order a How to Walk into a Room Download the free discussion guide for How to Walk into a Room by visiting this page and clicking the button "Discussion Guide"

“If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray…”In this powerful sermon, Dr. Thomas L. Driver, PhD, DMin teaches on 2 Chronicles 7:14, one of the most important verses about repentance, prayer, forgiveness, and spiritual healing in the Bible.This message explains God's promise to hear His people when they humble themselves, seek His face, and turn away from sin. Dr. Driver shares the importance of repentance, sincere prayer, and living in obedience to God.Through this teaching, believers are reminded that God's mercy and forgiveness are available to those who truly seek Him with humble hearts.If you are praying for restoration, breakthrough, or a closer walk with God, this message will strengthen your faith and encourage you to seek the Lord wholeheartedly.

Sorrow is not the end of the story.In this powerful full-length sermon, Dr. Thomas L. Driver, PhD, DMin teaches through John 16:22–31, where Jesus comforts His disciples with a promise of coming joy, deeper understanding, and confidence in prayer.Even during seasons of pain, fear, and uncertainty, Jesus reminds believers that sorrow can be transformed into joy through faith and trust in Him. This teaching also reveals the power of praying in Jesus' name and the peace that comes from knowing the Father hears us.This sermon will strengthen your faith, encourage your prayer life, and remind you that God's promises remain true even in life's hardest moments.

What happens when a pastor realizes they're going through the motions—but not actually experiencing God? In this episode, Loren talks with Rev. Dr. Katherine Willis Pershey about faith, formation, and the unexpected influence of Eugene Peterson on her life and ministry. Drawing from her own journey across multiple Christian traditions, Katherine reflects on the tension between justice, belief, and personal encounter with God. The conversation explores how Peterson's writing helped her rediscover prayer, Scripture, and the heart of pastoral vocation—not as performance or productivity, but as attentiveness to a living, active God. They also wrestle with the challenges of ministry in a secular age, the pressures facing pastors today, and the difficulty of maintaining spiritual depth in a culture shaped by busyness and division. They discuss the false divide between personal piety and social justice, the importance of spiritual practices like prayer and worship, and what it means to lead faithfully in a fragmented and polarized church landscape.   Together they explore: How Eugene Peterson reshaped her understanding of ministry The struggle to experience God while leading a church Why personal piety and social justice belong together The dangers of a purely “therapeutic” model of ministry What it means to believe in a real, active God today Navigating faith across evangelical and progressive divides Why pastors must protect time for prayer and reading Katherine Willis Pershey serves as co-pastor of First Congregational UCC Appleton, Wisconsin, having previously served congregations in Illinois and California. She is the author of Very Married: Field Notes on Love and Fidelity and co-author of Love Letters to God, and is a regular contributor to the Christian Century. She received a DMin from the Eugene Peterson Center for Christian Imagination at Western Theological Seminary in 2024.    Mentioned Resources:

Kelsi chats with co-authors, Hal Senkbeil and Lucas Woodford of the newly released "The Culture of God's Word: Faithful Ministry in a Post-Christian Society." The duo talk about remaining faithful to the preaching of God's effective words of law and gospel no matter what ministry trends or cultural contexts surround us. They also discuss the importance of allowing the Word to supersede culture wars and the call for the church to embrace both hospitality and embodiment. Rev. Dr. Lucas V. Woodford, (MDiv, STM, DMin), is President of the Minnesota South District of the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod and Associate Pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, Farmington, MN. Dr. Woodford is a Fellow in the Collegium of DOXOLOGY: The Lutheran Center for Spiritual Care and Counsel, charged with research, writing, and speaking regarding the care of souls in the contemporary context. President Woodford is a husband to Becca and father to their seven children, five girls and two boys.Harold L. Senkbeil was born and raised on a Minnesota farm. His rural background has shaped his approach to work and people. He married Jane Frances Nesset in 1971. They are the parents of three and the grandparents of four. Harold was a parish pastor for 31 years prior to accepting a position as Associate Professor of Ministry and Mission at Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, Indiana. Since 2008 he has served as Executive Director for Spiritual Care for DOXOLOGY: The Lutheran Center for Spiritual Care and Counsel and spends his time teaching and encouraging pastors to hone their skills in the ancient art of the cure of souls. Show Notes:⁠⁠⁠⁠Support 1517 Podcast Network⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠1517 Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠1517 on Youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠1517 Events Schedule⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠1517 Academy - Free Theological Education⁠⁠⁠⁠More from Kelsi:⁠⁠⁠⁠Kelsi Klembara⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Kelsi on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Kelsi on Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Kelsi's Substack⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to the Show:⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠More from Hal and Lucas:Order The Culture of God's WordSubscribe to Hal's SubstackFollow Hal on XFollow Lucas on XDoxology's Website

Life is short—and the Bible makes that clear.In this powerful full-length sermon, Dr. Thomas L. Driver, PhD, DMin teaches through Psalm 39:1–12, revealing deep truths about life, suffering, and the importance of placing our hope in God.Psalm 39 is a raw and honest prayer of David. It shows us the reality of human weakness, the weight of our words, and how quickly life passes. But it also points us to the only place where true hope is found—in the Lord.If you're facing struggles, seeking wisdom, or wanting a deeper understanding of Scripture, this message will help you refocus your life on what truly matters.

Pastoral ministry is both a sacred joy and a heavy burden. Kurt Fredrickson, Associate Dean for Professional Doctoral Programs at Fuller Seminary, discusses the struggles pastors face, how church leadership is shifting in a changing culture, and why creating life-giving congregational environments matters more than ever.THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Markus Watson introduces the episode by referencing the book That Their Work Will Be a Joy and asks why it needed to exist.Kurt Fredrickson describes how the book originated from pastors resonating deeply with the challenges and joys of ministry in a seminary lunch discussion.Ministry is tough and filled with conflicts on the outside and fears within, as reflected in Paul's writings.Despite challenges, pastors find joy in being gripped by God and walking with people through both the best and hardest moments of life.Markus Watson shares his personal experience of moving through seasons of fear and joy in ministry, appreciating moments of goodness and kindness in congregational life.Ministry leaders enter sacred spaces in people's lives, highlighting the privilege of bringing gospel and good news during life's milestones and struggles.The Doctor of Ministry program provides “fire for ministry” and “oxygen for your soul,” supporting pastors with new skills and spiritual renewal.The Doctor of Global Leadership degree equips marketplace leaders and executives to integrate faith with work by tackling practical ministry challenges in their workplace.Pastors face unique challenges, including constant 24/7 expectations from both themselves and their congregations, often making it difficult to “take off the uniform.”Kurt Fredrickson shares an honest story of vulnerability with another pastor, revealing the value of mutual support and truthful conversations.Cohort-based models in Doctor of Ministry programs foster deep relationships and provide safe spaces for pastors to remove their masks and find encouragement.Ministry flows from the inside out, and leaders must be in a healthy place themselves to minister well and avoid causing harm within congregational cultures.Every congregation possesses its own culture, shaped by leaders, and has the potential to be either kind and life-giving or toxic and harmful.Being vulnerable as a pastoral leader is necessary, but requires discernment, as oversharing can sometimes lead to painful repercussions.Kurt Fredrickson emphasizes that pastors ultimately seek internal growth and love within their congregations, and asks congregants to be kind as pastors strive to embody what they teach.RELEVANT RESOURCES AND LINKS:Kurt Fredrickson – kurtf@fuller.eduFuller Doctor of Ministry ProgramFuller Doctor of Global Leadership ProgramBooks mentioned:That Their Work Will Be a Joy, by Kurt Fredrickson and Cameron LeeRelated episodes:103. Willingness to Adapt: The Church After Covid, with Kurt Fredrickson and Cameron Lee109. Leadership as Learning, Part 2: Coaches and Cohorts, with Tod Bolsinger113. Flourishing Leadership, wSend me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!Click HERE to get my FREE online course, BECOMING LEADERS OF SHALOM.

DOWNLOAD KEYNOTE SLIDES This message centers on the resurrection of Jesus as both a past event and a present reality. It explains the phrase “Jesus is risen” as emphasizing that Christ is alive now, not merely that He rose in the past. Drawing primarily from Romans 6:4 and related passages, the sermon teaches that believers identify with Christ in His death, which brings liberation from sin, and that this liberation leads to elevation through “newness of life.” The message highlights two main principles: identification leads to liberation, and liberation leads to elevation. Through Christ's resurrection, believers have access to resurrection power every day for healing, strength, encouragement, renewal, and victorious living. The sermon closes by urging listeners to embrace their new identity in Christ, walk in resurrection power, and live uplifted lives that also help lift others. Romans 6:1, What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? 2 Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it? 3 Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? 4 Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

The Collect Almighty Father, whose dear Son, on the night before he suffered, instituted the Sacrament of his Body and Blood: Mercifully grant that we may receive it thankfully in remembrance of Jesus Christ our Lord, who in these holy mysteries gives us a pledge of eternal life; and who now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. Old Testament Exodus 12:1-4, (5-10), 11-14 The Lord said to Moses and Aaron in the land of Egypt: This month shall mark for you the beginning of months; it shall be the first month of the year for you. Tell the whole congregation of Israel that on the tenth of this month they are to take a lamb for each family, a lamb for each household. If a household is too small for a whole lamb, it shall join its closest neighbor in obtaining one; the lamb shall be divided in proportion to the number of people who eat of it. [Your lamb shall be without blemish, a year-old male; you may take it from the sheep or from the goats. You shall keep it until the fourteenth day of this month; then the whole assembled congregation of Israel shall slaughter it at twilight. They shall take some of the blood and put it on the two doorposts and the lintel of the houses in which they eat it. They shall eat the lamb that same night; they shall eat it roasted over the fire with unleavened bread and bitter herbs. Do not eat any of it raw or boiled in water, but roasted over the fire, with its head, legs, and inner organs. You shall let none of it remain until the morning; anything that remains until the morning you shall burn.] This is how you shall eat it: your loins girded, your sandals on your feet, and your staff in your hand; and you shall eat it hurriedly. It is the passover of the Lord. For I will pass through the land of Egypt that night, and I will strike down every firstborn in the land of Egypt, both human beings and animals; on all the gods of Egypt I will execute judgments: I am the Lord. The blood shall be a sign for you on the houses where you live: when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and no plague shall destroy you when I strike the land of Egypt. This day shall be a day of remembrance for you. You shall celebrate it as a festival to the Lord; throughout your generations you shall observe it as a perpetual ordinance. The Response Psalm 116:1, 10-17 Dilexi, quoniam 1 I love the Lord, because he has heard the voice of my supplication, * because he has inclined his ear to me whenever I called upon him. 10 How shall I repay the Lord * for all the good things he has done for me? 11 I will lift up the cup of salvation * and call upon the Name of the Lord. 12 I will fulfill my vows to the Lord *  in the presence of all his people. 13 Precious in the sight of the Lord *  is the death of his servants. 14 O Lord, I am your servant; * I am your servant and the child of your handmaid;  you have freed me from my bonds. 15 I will offer you the sacrifice of thanksgiving *  and call upon the Name of the Lord. 16 I will fulfill my vows to the Lord *  in the presence of all his people, 17 In the courts of the Lord's house, *  in the midst of you, O Jerusalem.    [The "Hallelujah!" which closes verse 17 is omitted on Maundy Thursday.] The Epistle 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 I received from the Lord what I also handed on to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took a loaf of bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, "This is my body that is for you. Do this in remembrance of me." In the same way he took the cup also, after supper, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me." For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes. The Gospel John 13:1-17, 31b-35 Now before the festival of the Passover, Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart from this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. The devil had already put it into the heart of Judas son of Simon Iscariot to betray him. And during supper Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going to God, got up from the table, took off his outer robe, and tied a towel around himself. Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet and to wipe them with the towel that was tied around him. He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, "Lord, are you going to wash my feet?" Jesus answered, "You do not know now what I am doing, but later you will understand." Peter said to him, "You will never wash my feet." Jesus answered, "Unless I wash you, you have no share with me." Simon Peter said to him, "Lord, not my feet only but also my hands and my head!" Jesus said to him, "One who has bathed does not need to wash, except for the feet, but is entirely clean. And you are clean, though not all of you." For he knew who was to betray him; for this reason he said, "Not all of you are clean." After he had washed their feet, had put on his robe, and had returned to the table, he said to them, "Do you know what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord--and you are right, for that is what I am. So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you. Very truly, I tell you, servants are not greater than their master, nor are messengers greater than the one who sent them. If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them. Jesus said, "Now the Son of Man has been glorified, and God has been glorified in him. If God has been glorified in him, God will also glorify him in himself and will glorify him at once. Little children, I am with you only a little longer. You will look for me; and as I said to the Jews so now I say to you, `Where I am going, you cannot come.' I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another."

“Blessing in the Secret Place, Bounty in God's Plan” Psalm 91:1, He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. 2 I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust.”  Leviticus 25:18, If you want to live securely in the land, follow my decrees and obey my regulations. 19 Then the land will yield large crops, and you will eat your fill and live securely in it. 20 But you might ask, ‘What will we eat during the seventh year, since we are not allowed to plant or harvest crops that year?' 21 Be assured that I will send my blessing for you in the sixth year, so the land will produce a crop large enough for three years. 22 When you plant your fields in the eighth year, you will still be eating from the large crop of the sixth year. In fact, you will still be eating from that large crop when the new crop is harvested in the ninth year. Pastor Bryan Hudson's, D.Min. sermon centers on the theme that living close to God and trusting His plan leads to provision, protection, and completion of what He has started. Drawing from Psalm 91:1–2 and Leviticus 25:22, he connects the church's anniversary theme, “Faith Alive,” to the truth that faith is alive because Jesus is alive, and because God is not finished with His people yet.  A major emphasis of the message is that believers must learn to walk by faith and not by sight. Dr. Hudson illustrates this with testimonies about churches paying off mortgages and leaders who acted in faith before they saw the final outcome. His point is that because Jesus finished His work, believers can trust God to help them finish theirs. What looks unfinished in the natural is already complete in God's purpose.  From Psalm 91, he identifies two mandates and two affirmations: believers are called to dwell in the secret place of God's presence and abide under His shadow, meaning they must live near God and trust His protection. They must also confess that the Lord is their refuge and fortress and declare their trust in Him. In a shaky world, God remains the believer's secure foundation.  From Leviticus 25, Dr. Hudson explains the principle of preserved provision. God commanded Israel to let the land rest in the seventh year, but He also promised such an abundant harvest in the sixth year that it would sustain them until new crops came in. This becomes a lesson in obedience, trust, rest, and preparation: God provides in advance for seasons when visible increase is not happening. The preacher applies this practically to financial stewardship, saving, tithing, and breaking cycles of lack through obedience to God's order.  He then applies the message directly to Hope of Glory Church, saying that their eighth year is a transition year. As they approach paying off their mortgage, they are nearing a new season of freedom, provision, and possibility. Being debt free is not just about relief from bills, but about having more seed to sow and entering greater fruitfulness. He reinforces this with Amos 9:13, describing a season of such abundance that one harvest overlaps with the next.  The sermon closes with three main principles: God honors His own order, God provides for obedience, and God's provision can be stored. Dr. Hudson urges the congregation to activate faith by believing, speaking, and acting. He ends with corporate affirmations declaring that their faith is active, they will obey God without hesitation, dwell in His presence, trust His covering, sow in this season, retire the mortgage, and enter a new season of abundance.  In one sentence: this sermon teaches that faithful obedience in God's presence positions believers to receive His preserved provision, finish what He started, and step into a new season of abundance.

Navigating tough conversations in today's polarized climate is one of the most pressing challenges for church communicators and leaders. In this episode of the MyCom Church Communications and Marketing Podcast, Rev. Dr. Scott Hughes, author of the Courageous Conversations curriculum, talks about how churches can respond to hot-button topics with a prophetic voice—without alienating their communities. Whether you're crafting public statements on current events, encouraging difficult conversations, or seeking to equip your congregation for deeper unity, this episode will support your ministry with real-world examples and expert advice. (00:00) The church's prophetic voice (03:08) Rev. Scott Hughes (04:19) Preachers reflecting on public responses (08:24) Speaking out in purple congregations (12:09) Examples of courageous conversations (16:18) The toughest topics to address in church (19:04) Introducing a tough topic in church (20:44) When it works to have a tough conversation (23:29) Crafting a public statement for your church (27:20) Refreshing for ministry (30:56) Speaking to our current times Scott is the Associate General Secretary (World Service) of Discipleship Ministries. Previously Scott served as Executive Director, Congregational Vitality & Intentional Discipleship, and as both an associate pastor and pastor of a multi-point charge. Scott has an MDiv from Asbury Theological Seminary and a DMin in the spiritual formation track from Southern Methodist University. Scott is an elder in the North Georgia Conference since 2007. Scott was recommended for this specific conversation because of his work in developing the “Courageous Conversations” curriculum.  Courageous Conversations is a toolbox that local churches can use to inspire and encourage the church and individuals to participate in conversations that might seem difficult–such as immigration or Christian Nationalism.

In this powerful Bible teaching, Dr. Thomas L. Driver, PhD, DMin explores the life of Anna the prophetess from the Gospel of Luke and reveals the spiritual significance of her devotion to fasting and prayer.Who was Anna, and why is her story important for believers today? In Luke 2, Anna is described as a woman who worshiped God continually through fasting and prayer while faithfully waiting for the coming of the Messiah. Her life serves as a powerful example of spiritual discipline, perseverance, and wholehearted devotion to God.In this sermon, Dr. Driver explains:✅ Who Anna was in the Bible✅ Why fasting and prayer defined her life✅ The power of faithful worship and spiritual devotion✅ Lessons believers can apply from Anna's example todayAnna's story reminds us that a life devoted to prayer prepares the heart to recognize God's work and remain faithful in every season.

This week, I talk with Keith Giles, Mary Terhune, Zac Cannon and Nish Dubashia about their collective work in Quantum Theology: Volume One. Listen to hear about: How science and spirituality may not be opposites, but different ways of exploring the same underlying reality How ideas from quantum physics—like interconnectedness and entanglement—echo concepts found in mysticism and religious traditions Why many contributors believe the sense of separation between people, cultures, and religions is an illusion, and what recognizing our interconnectedness could mean for humanity. How mystical experiences challenge the limits of language—why some spiritual insights can't fully be explained, only experienced How awakening to shared consciousness could transform ethics, compassion, and how we treat one another   Quantum Theology, Volume One Summary Quantum Theology: Volume One brings together an extraordinary and diverse group of scientists, mathematicians, theologians, mystics, authors, and cultural commentators to explore one of the most provocative conversations of our time: What happens when Quantum Physics and Theology begin to overlap? Edited and curated by author Keith Giles, this book explores the intersection between science and faith. Featuring contributions by: Brandy Anderson, Zac Cannon, Brother Jason (Jay) Clark, Michelle Collins, Stuart Delony, Nish Dubashia, Eric Scot English, Jeremy L. Evans, Ellen Haroutunian, DMin., Dr. Steve McVey, Mark Merizan, Jenny Lorraine Nielsen, William Sarill, Mary Terhune, R.N., Mo Thomas, and John van de Laar.   Check Out Author Social Media PackagesCheck out the Bookwild Community on PatreonCheck Out My Stories Are My Religion SubstackGet Bookwild MerchFollow @imbookwild on InstagramOther Co-hosts On Instagram:Gare Billings @gareindeedreadsSteph Lauer @books.in.badgerlandHalley Sutton @halleysutton25Brian Watson @readingwithbrianMacKenzie Green @missusa2mba

Doug Foltz explains how he used AI to solve a real coach-development bottleneck: mentor coaching doesn't scale. By building a competency rubric and an AI "agent" that evaluates coaching transcripts, Doug's team reduced hours of expert analysis to minutes—then re-centered the human work where it matters most: reflection, agency, and a short mentor-coaching conversation. The bigger idea: "communal co-intelligence"—AI not just as a personal assistant, but as a tool that helps a whole coaching community preserve culture, build consistency, and scale development without losing what makes coaching human. Episode description How do you scale mentor coaching when you don't have the budget—or the hours? Doug Foltz (Content Engineering & Value Alignment Lead at Gloo, DMin candidate at Asbury, and longtime church-planting coach) shares how he built an AI-supported mentor-coaching loop: a detailed competency rubric + an AI evaluator that reviews transcripts in minutes. But Doug also warns about a hidden danger: AI can bypass reflection, which is essential for adult learning. So they intentionally added "friction" back into the process—reflection first, then AI feedback, then a short human coaching conversation. Along the way, Doug introduces a powerful concept: communal co-intelligence—AI that strengthens a community's shared language, values, and coaching culture. Key moments (timestamps) 0:02–1:20 – Who Doug is + why Brian calls him the "AI guy" 1:49–3:21 – The real problem: coaching training doesn't stick without mentor coaching 3:34–5:06 – Doug's solution: a rubric + AI agent that evaluates transcripts (levels 1–3) 6:44–8:15 – The twist: reflection is essential; AI can accidentally remove it 8:28–9:00 – The human loop: 15–20 minute mentor conversation after reflection + report 10:38–14:35 – Why AI matters: replaces 3–4 hours of expert analysis with minutes 15:04–16:15 – The church's role: protect what's uniquely human; set boundaries 16:27–19:16 – "Communal co-intelligence": AI + a coaching community's culture and standards 21:24–23:00 – What they observed: fast growth from Level 1 → Level 2; harder jump to Level 3 23:29–25:46 – Craft guild model: learn the fundamentals, then innovate without losing the core 28:57–31:14 – What's next: agentic systems, tools + data access, and AI as "work orchestrator" Key ideas AI can scale mentor coaching by doing the transcript evaluation quickly and consistently. Reflection is non-negotiable in adult learning; AI can "steal" it by doing the thinking for you. The solution is intentional friction: reflection → AI feedback → short human mentor coaching. Agency matters: don't make AI the all-knowing guru; keep the learner's authority intact. Communal co-intelligence: AI can reinforce a shared coaching culture across many coaches. Early gains can be rapid (novice → intermediate), but advanced mastery takes longer. The future is agentic systems that combine tools + data + context to orchestrate real work. Quotable lines (pull quotes) "We really can't scale coaching very well." "Mentor coaching is what makes the training stick." "My process actually bypasses [reflection] entirely." "We added a friction point… and we made them reflect." "You don't want the AI to be the all-knowing guru." "That's the part of the process that we said, we're going to replace." (re: 3–4 hours of evaluation) "Communal co-intelligence… it's the AI with our coaching community." "It becomes this orchestrator of work within an organization." Discussion questions (for Learning Lab / staff meeting) Where would AI help us scale without compromising what we value most? What part of our development process must remain human-only? Where might AI accidentally remove reflection, struggle, or ownership? What would a "reflection-first" workflow look like for our coaches or trainers? What are the risks of communal AI (shared culture) becoming static or overly controlling? If AI becomes an "orchestrator of work," what data is off-limits—and why? Practical takeaway AI is best used as a leverage tool—not a replacement for learning. Let it do the heavy lift of analysis and pattern recognition, then spend your human time where it counts: reflection, discernment, presence, and coaching conversations that build ownership and growth. If you design it well, AI doesn't dilute your culture—it can actually help you scale it.

Summary of Message by Pastor Bryan Hudson, DMin FORWARD: The Only Direction God Is Moving (Generated by OpenAI) This message presents “Forward” as a foundational theme: God's direction is always forward, and those who walk with Him must align themselves with that movement. The focus is on developing the right perspective, mindset, and faith to move into a new season with clarity and spiritual strength. Hebrews 12:1–2, Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Perception by Ryan Holiday: Perception is how we see and understand what occurs around us—and what we decide those events will mean. Our perceptions can be a source of strength or of great weakness.  Just because other people say that something is hopeless or crazy or broken to pieces doesn't mean it is. We decide what story to tell ourselves. Or whether we will tell one at all. Welcome to the power of perception.    Forward Is a Mindset Forward is more than physical movement. It is a way of thinking and living. Without a forward mindset, life becomes confined to two realities: The past (what has already happened) The present (what is currently happening) But God is always revealing something beyond what we currently see. A forward mindset embraces growth, development, and destiny rather than remaining trapped in memory or circumstance.   Perception Shapes Experience A central principle of the message is that perception influences reality. Events are real, but how we interpret them determines how they shape us. Believers must guard against allowing: Other people's narratives Cultural narratives Emotional reactions to define their reality. This is not about positive thinking alone; it is about aligning perception with God's Word, promises, and character. Faith itself is a God-centered perspective. What you perceive may not automatically change circumstances—but it will change you, and that transformation positions you for forward movement.   Hebrews 12:1–2 — The Roadmap for Forward Movement The message uses Hebrews 12:1–2 as a spiritual roadmap for going forward: Lay aside every weight — not everything that slows you down is sinful, but unnecessary burdens must be released. Lay aside sin — entanglements that ensnare must be removed. Run with endurance — forward progress requires persistence, not speed. Run your race — avoid distraction, comparison, and outside noise. Look unto Jesus — He is both the author (starter) and finisher (developer) of faith. Forward living requires discipline and focus. Just as travel requires a map, purposeful spiritual movement requires direction and clarity.   The Greatest Obstacles: The Past and the Present The message identifies two major threats to forward progress, along with a third contrasting promise: The Peril of the Past The Peril of the Present The Promise of the Future   The Peril of the Past The past becomes dangerous when it pulls us backward emotionally, mentally, or spiritually. The peril of the past includes: Successes that create complacency Failures that create shame Mistakes that create regret People who try to hold us in old versions of ourselves A key distinction is made: Remembering means learning lessons. Looking back means longing to return. Looking back prevents growth because it distracts from what God is doing now. The warning of Lot's wife illustrates that backward movement can lead to destruction. She was instructed to flee judgment, but instead turned back toward what she was leaving. The lesson: when God says move forward, hesitation and reversal are dangerous. The message also emphasizes the importance of accurate remembrance. Ignoring or distorting history does not solve problems; it perpetuates them. To move forward properly, foundations must be truthful and sound.   The Peril of the Present The present becomes perilous when circumstances alone define identity and possibility. The example of Israel at the Red Sea (Exodus 14) demonstrates this danger. They had been delivered from slavery but faced: An impassable sea ahead An advancing army behind Their past slavery mindset combined with present fear tempted them to retreat. Circumstances seemed to say they would never be free. The command “Go forward” was not merely directional; it was transformational. It was a call to: Change perspective Reject fear-driven narratives Align with God's promise Even when nothing had visibly changed in the moment, God's word introduced a new reality. The message stresses that the greatest difference between a crisis and victory is often what you think about it. God's perspective interrupts fear and invites repentance—not necessarily from sin, but from wrong thinking. Repentance is defined as changing the mind, and mindset change becomes the gateway to blessing.   Moving Forward Requires Intentional Alignment Forward progress may require practical changes: Adjusting what influences your thinking Limiting negative or fear-based inputs Choosing trusted voices Refusing paralysis by over-analysis Standing still is easy. Moving forward is difficult because it involves risk, mistakes, and emotional discomfort. But stopping is not an option if God is moving.   The Promise of the Future If the past contains peril and the present contains pressure, the future contains promise. The promise of the future rests on two anchors: Character in Christ God's promises These provide stability when circumstances fluctuate. Jesus endured the cross “for the joy set before Him,” seeing the future redemption of humanity. That forward vision sustained Him through suffering. Likewise, believers endure by focusing on what God is building ahead.   The Meaning of FORWARD The message concludes by defining forward living through seven qualities: Faithful — steady and full of faith Obedient — responsive to God without delay Resilient — able to recover after setbacks Wise — operating in Christ-centered discernment Aligned — staying in step with God's Word and plan Redemptive — participating in spiritual and social restoration Destined — moving toward God's appointed purpose Final Emphasis The core declaration remains clear: Do not be trapped by the peril of the past. Do not be defined by the peril of the present. Live in the promise of the future. God's way is forward. Those who walk with Him must move in that same direction—mentally, spiritually, relationally, and missionally—bringing others along toward redemption and purpose.

On this week's episode of ‘The Young Man and the Three', we welcome Noah Clowney, Danny Wolf, Egor Dёmin, and Drake Powell of the Brooklyn Nets. The group discusses the Nets young roster and their mindsets and approach to this season, each of their backstories playing AAU, overseas, and college (including a great discussion about how NCAA basketball is changing), stories from their draft nights, standout moments from their young NBA careers so far (including Danny's viral moments getting sh*t talked by Jimmy Butler and Kevin Durant), and so much more. Let's go!00:00 Intro0:48 Show start2:45 Egor on Moscow Academy and Real Madrid6:45 European style of basketball11:50 Drake growing up, going to UNC13:30 AAU experiences18:30 Danny at Yale and Michigan21:50 Noah on Alabama24:00 Changes in college and NIL28:40 Egor on BYU34:19 Everyone's draft nights43:40 Biggest differences in NBA v college49:45 Mindset on the Nets this season and dealing with losing54:55 Wow moments and welcome the NBA moments1:01:15 Adjusting to NBA defenses1:03:30 Lessons they'd give to younger selvesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the Reformed Journal Podcast, the poetry edition, Rose Postma talks with Andy Stager about his poem “The Return of Appetite.” Andy is from Akron, Ohio, and has lived in South Carolina, Korea, Switzerland, and Colorado. He has a PhD in divinity and a DMin in the sacred art of writing. He has published poetry in Ekstasis, Fare Forward, Rejection Letters, Dust Poetry, and elsewhere. He is a fly fishing guide, a counseling psychology student, and a pastor residing in Denver with his family.

Dr. Joy Dahl shares her transformative journey from a successful corporate career to integrating her faith with her work. She discusses the importance of understanding one's purpose, creating healthy work-life rhythms, and the impact of faith in the workplace. Dr. Dahl emphasizes the need for leaders to bring their whole selves to work and to mentor the next generation of leaders, encouraging them to find community and support in their journeys. As an ambassador of Christ in the workplace, Joy works bi-vocationally. She provides expertise as a Fractional Chief Financial Officer for mainstream companies and faith-based organizations. She also serves as a speaker, teacher, author, and dedicated advocate for faith+work integration, with a special focus on emerging women leaders around the world.Joy began her work journey with Price Waterhouse in New York City and Washington, DC. She then spent most of her career working with start-up and high-growth companies in various industries, including international telecom. At age 33, Joy became Chief Financial Officer of a regional broadcasting company in New York.The trajectory of Joy's life transition when a co-worker gave her a book which prompted her to go to church–where she met Jesus. With the Lord's help, she navigated the transition from her life “before Christ” to “with Christ” in the C-suite. She went on to establish her own CFO consulting practice which thrived for over 10 years with clients in Washington, DC, New York, NY, and Dallas, TX.As Joy began writing and teaching Bible studies, God calledher to get better equipped to handle His Word with care. She gave up her lucrative career to attend seminary, where she first heard about Theology of Work. She earned three degrees at Dallas Theological Seminary: Master of Christian Education, Master of Biblical Studies, and Doctor of Ministry with an emphasis on Theology of Work.Today, Joy integrates her faith and work by providing expertise as an executive leader developing effective organizational strategies and removing barriers for growth, expansion, and transition. Joy sits on the Board of Directors of Made to Flourish which empowers pastors and their churches to integrate faith, work, and economic wisdom for the flourishing of their communities. She loves mentoring next-generation professionals growing in their leadership, and senior leaders seeking to expand impact in their broad circles of influence. Joy's passion for collaboration and expanding Kingdom impact helped launch the BOLDLY Conference: the first-of-its-kind Faith+Work for Women conference.Joy and her husband, Gordon, live in Dallas, TX with their beloved rescue pups. Her favorite things include: God's Word, international adventure, horses, flowers, big dogs, dark chocolate, and beach getaways.Get In Touch With Joy:Dr. Joy Dahl, DMIN, CPA - Strategist, Speaker, Equipper

What if manhood isn’t something you master – but something you grow into? In a culture that praises independence and performance, many men are silently struggling, unsure of their place, unclear about their purpose, and exhausted from trying to figure it out alone. "Skills of an Unskilled Laborer" is an honest, biblical roadmap through the four essential stages of Christian manhood: Dependent, Independent, Dependable and Loving. Link to purchase the book at Pastor Robb's website: https://www.thehopeofgloryindy.org Published by Forerunners Publishing

Hour three of DJ & PK for February 2, 2026: Steve Cleveland, Former BYU Basketball Coach Did Lauri Markkanen and Keyonte George get All-Star snubs? Egor Dёmim shining as an NBA rookie

DJ & PK talked about Brooklyn Nets rookie Egor Dёmin showing out as a rookie in the NBA and what's caused the former BYU Cougar to be so effective at the pro level.

BYU basketball is preparing to take on the Kansas Jayhawks at historic Allen Fieldhouse on Saturday. For Kansas, the Jayhawks are expected to have Darryn Peterson available, who is recovering from an ankle injury. That sets up a matchup of the potential top two picks in the NBA Draft with AJ Dybantsa and Darryn Peterson on Saturday afternoon. KSL Sports BYU Insider shares his initial thoughts on Kansas as we get ready for the Top-15 matchup. Former BYU Egor Dёmin is thriving with the Brooklyn Nets after being selected to the NBA Rising Stars game. Subscribe to the Cougar Tracks Podcast to stay up-to-date with all the daily episodes. Cougar Tracks is on YouTube and X every weekday at Noon (MT), and KSL NewsRadio at 6:30 p.m. (MT). Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cougar-tracks/id1146971609 YouTube Podcast: https://kslsports.com/category/podcast_results/?sid=2035&n=Cougar%20Tracks Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2NCF1KecDsE2rB1zMuHhUh Download the KSL Sports app Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bonneville.kslsports&hl=en_US  iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ksl-sports/id143593 Mitch Harper is a BYU Insider for KSLsports.com and hosts the Cougar Tracks Podcast daily on KSL Sports YouTube and KSL NewsRadio (SUBSCRIBE). Harper also co-hosts Cougar Sports Saturday (12–3 p.m.) on KSL NewsRadio. Follow Mitch’s coverage of BYU athletics in the Big 12 Conference on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram: @Mitch_Harper. Want more coverage of BYU sports? Take us with you wherever you go. Download the new and improved KSL Sports app from Utah’s sports leader. Allows you to stream live radio and video, keeping you up-to-date on all your favorite teams.

People are becoming increasingly distrusting of others – even people in their own neighborhoods! Rev. Dr. Lucas Woodford joins Steph and Andy to talk about how the lack of trust in other people hurts our closest human relationships.   Bio: Rev. Dr. Lucas V. Woodford, (MDiv, STM, DMin), is President of the Minnesota South District of the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod and Associate Pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, Farmington, MN. He is the author of Great Commission, Great Confusion, or Great Confession? (Wipf & Stock, 2012). He is co-author with Harold Senkbeil of Pastoral Leadership:  for the Care of Souls (2nd ed Lexham Press, 2021) and their book on contextual mission, The Culture of God's Word: Faithful Ministry in a Post-Christian Society is forthcoming from Lexham in Feb. 2026. He has written numerous articles published in The Lutheran Witness, Logia, and Seelsorger, including a monograph "What does this mean? Responding to Social Justice and Critical Race Theory" (2021).  Woodford is a member of the Board of Regents of Concordia University, St. Paul, MN. He has served as an adjunct instructor for Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, IN and the graduate school at The Institute of Lutheran Theology in Brookings, SD.  Dr. Woodford is a Fellow in the Collegium of DOXOLOGY: The Lutheran Center for Spiritual Care and Counsel, charged with research, writing, and speaking regarding the care of souls in the contemporary context. He frequently presents on matters related to soul care, missiology, marriage, sex and gender issues, as well as critical race theory. He is a husband to Becca and father to their seven children, five girls and two boys: Isabella (married to Zach), Thaddaeus, Aletheia, Ekklacia, Soteria, Titus, Basileia, and grandfather to Aurora.  Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life Ministry: lcms.org/life LCMS Family Ministry: lcms.org/family  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Jim Gulledge, author of the book Green Forest, Red Eath, Blue Sea. Jim Gulledge is the author of A Poor Man's Supper. The novella was selected for inclusion in the North Carolina Collection at UNC-Chapel Hill and the W.L. Eury Appalachian Collection at Appalachian State University. Over the course of his academic training, Dr. Gulledge earned an A.B. degree in Christian education from Pfeiffer University, an M.A. in English from Clemson University and a DMin in theological studies from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. His career highlights included participation in the Adult Development Institute at Harvard University, the Fulbright German Administrators Exchange Program and the C.S Lewis Summer Residence program in Oxford, England. A life-long resident of the Carolinas, Jim and his wife, Linda, enjoy visiting with their four children and son-in-law and daily life with their miniature schnauzer, Luka.   In my book review, I stated Green Forest, Red Earth, Blue Sea is a beautiful Southern fiction set of short stories. I fell instantly in love with these stories that take place in the state I call home - North Carolina. Each of the three stories takes place in a different part of the state and follow three connected families. The stories, though they take place during different times and in different places, stay connected through a family heirloom.   Unlike most books I enjoy this one has many varied characters, so there isn't one character to fall in love with. Instead, readers fall in love with place. And Jim did an excellent job helping readers come to love North Carolina, from the green hills of the mountains to the red clay of the piedmont to the sandy shores of the ocean. I also enjoyed discovering how each family connected with one another and how they managed to cover the state in a few generations.   We start in the mountains as trains bring change - meeting two young lovers whose time together is fleeting. Next, we find ourselves saving peaches from a deadly spring freeze. Can this couple eek out a living in the clay? The last story asks us to cheer for an orphan boy and the chance to find buried treasure against the backdrop of a tropical storm. And finally, catch a quick glimpse of a story yet to be told when a boy from the beach glimpses a girl from the mountains - and we feel that it will all start again.   Jim tells a delightful series of stories, and you won't want to miss this book. It would make a great gift for any NC native!   Subscribe to Online for Authors to learn about more great books! https://www.youtube.com/@onlineforauthors?sub_confirmation=1   Join the Novels N Latte Book Club community to discuss this and other books with like-minded readers: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3576519880426290   You can follow Author Jim Gulledge FB: @jim.gulledge.12   Purchase Green Forest, Red Eath, Blue Sea on Amazon: Paperback: https://amzn.to/4oI77Mw Ebook: https://amzn.to/47IXRAE   Teri M Brown, Author and Podcast Host: https://www.terimbrown.com FB: @TeriMBrownAuthor IG: @terimbrown_author X: @terimbrown1   Want to be a guest on Online for Authors? Send Teri M Brown a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/member/onlineforauthors   #jimgulledge #greenforestredearthbluesea #southernfiction #shortstories #terimbrownauthor #authorpodcast #onlineforauthors #characterdriven #researchjunkie #awardwinningauthor #podcasthost #podcast #readerpodcast #bookpodcast #writerpodcast #author #books #goodreads #bookclub #fiction #writer #bookreview *As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

In this episode podcaster and spiritual director, Josh Banner with Keith Reynolds, and Robert Caldwell explores how the church can embody creative, justice-oriented responses to today's social realities by centering marginalized communities and reimagining spiritual formation as social transformation. Guests: • Keith Reynolds (Western Theological Seminary) • Robert Caldwell (Answer Poverty) Key Topics: • Church and social justice • Community development • Faith in action • Racial equity • Creative ministry models 00:00 – Introduction • Opening thoughts on not being anxious about current events and the call for the church to focus on supporting marginalized people. 00:32 – Organizing for Impact • Discussion on how resources are used to meet material needs in the community. 00:47 – New Wine, Old Wineskins • Reflection on the need for new approaches in faith and community work. 01:03 – Suffering and Imagination • The idea that suffering requires imagination and leads to collective genius, especially in the Black community. 01:25 – Robert Caldwell's Influence • Robert's non-reactionary approach and the wisdom gained from elders. 01:51 – Episode Overview • Host Josh introduces guests Keith Reynolds and Robert Caldwell, and outlines the themes of the episode: church planting, justice, and hope. 02:36 – Orientation and Vision • Robert shares his story; Keith discusses his vision for a new kind of church. 04:20 – Turning to Hope • Encouragement to focus on good news and practice hope despite a difficult news cycle. 05:40 – Love and Justice • Exploring the connection between loving God, neighbor, and self; justice as love in action. 09:00 – Personal Journeys • Keith and Robert share their backgrounds, vocational journeys, and the importance of mentorship and legacy. 16:36 – Church Planting and Community • Keith describes the influence of Robert on his approach to church and community development. 36:14 – Closing Reflections • The episode closes with thoughts on witness, legacy, and the ongoing journey of faith and justice. For more information visit: www.theinvitationcenter.org For information about the pending DMin cohort at Western Theological Seminary, visit: https://www.westernsem.edu/admissions/

Dr. Nika Spaulding Dr. Kay Daigle Dr. Nika Spaulding joins Dr. Kay Daigle once again in this episode on the Church Calendar. If you are unaware of what that is, Nika will help you not only be informed, but also appreciate its beauty and how it can deepen your faith. We are now at the beginning of the church calendar year with the period of time leading up to the coming of Jesus, Advent. Other BOW Resources with Nika on the Church Calendar Why Celebrate Advent? and Why Celebrate Lent? Other resources Study from the Daily Grace Co. Easy Explainer for the calendar Great family devotional book on the calendar This episode is available on video as well. Timestamps: 00:32 Introduction to Nika and the church calendar 14:59 What is Pentecost? Why and how should be celebrate it in the church or even at home if our churches don't? 23:32 What is Ordinary Time? 27:12 So what? Why should we follow the church calendar? 32:34 Recommendations for someone leading in the church in any role 36:26 Resources on this topic TranscriptKay >> I'm Kay Daigle. Welcome to the Beyond Ordinary Women Podcast and video. Today, our guest is Nika Spaulding. Welcome, Nika. Nika >> Thank you. I'm excited to be here. Kay >> We're glad you're here. You know, I was looking at your bio. You sent us a new bio the other day, and it occurred to me that I never really asked you about having a zoology degree from the University of Oklahoma. What is that about? Nika >> Oh, so I will say I was originally pre-med. So while having a zoology degree is incredible, I originally thought I was going to go to med school. And O.U. weirdly doesn't have a biology program. They have a zoology program that feeds into a med school which is so strange because Oklahoma State has a biology program that feeds into a vet school. So it's not I don't know why we're you know, part of the reason why, though, I actually know the real reasons because we had world class scholars in that field at O.U. and we have world class research facilities, so they just kind of combine them. But even though I don't use my degree, I am utterly fascinated by the animal kingdom. And so it was a really fun degree for me to get. And it always surprises people when they find out that's my bachelor's degree. So I joke, though, with that degree, I'm not even qualified to like work at a zoo unless I'm in the gift shop. So I would have to go on to a lot more school. But, you know, there's always time if I decide to go that route. Kay >> Well, I love that. I wasn't sure if you started zoology because you just wanted to go in that direction and then God changed your mind or if there was something else behind it. Nika >> So it's definitely med school. And then to this day, I mean, even when I was a kid, if I saw blood, vomit, anything that doctors see on a routine basis, I get weak in the knees, I get sick to my stomach, I get all of these things. And I really was like, that's okay. I'm going to push through. And so I was on my way to the MCAT in college at O.U. and God was like, you really, you really don't get it, do you? And I finally was like, all right, Lord, what is it you would have me do? So took a hard left into theology. So I don't know anybody who has a zoology/theology degree other than me. I don't know anybody. And so, you know, but that's all right. Maybe there'll be more someday. Kay >> I don't know either. You're just unique. Probably in the whole world. Nika >> Sure. Well, it took me a while to figure out. I should probably follow God, so maybe I'm not unique in that way. I just went a weird route to that, but. Yeah. So it's fun, though. Kay >> Well, that's fun. Well, you also have a master of theology at DTS, and you have a DMin from Northern Seminary. So you have definitely made up for not having some sort of Bible degree, I suppose. Nika >> Yeah. Kay >> at O.U. So we are talking about the church calendar today,

Download Keynote Slides Colossians 1:12, Always thanking the Father. He has enabled you to share in the  inheritance that belongs to his people, who live in the light.   1 Thessalonians 5:18, In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you In this message, Pastor Bryan Hudson, DMin. teaches that thanksgiving is far more than a holiday—it is a foundational posture for a victorious Christian life. Drawing from Colossians 1:12, 1 Thessalonians 5:18, and other Scriptures, he explains that giving thanks is evidence of the inheritance God has placed within us and a continual practice that renews our minds, stabilizes our emotions, and keeps our hearts clear. Like the peace offerings in Leviticus—voluntary, heartfelt, and spontaneous—true thanksgiving flows from love, not obligation. Using the redwood tree's shared root system as an illustration, he shows that believers are rooted together in Christ and strengthened through collective gratitude. Pastor Hudson warns that withholding thanks leads to darkened thinking, while a lifestyle of gratitude brings joy, peace, and spiritual resilience even amid trials. Ultimately, giving thanks is a continual offering, the “fruit of our lips,” that keeps us in God's presence (coram Deo) and grounds our identity as accepted, blessed people who live in the light.

Join for part two, Veronique Webber and Steve Staten discuss with Andy Fleming the paradigm shift within the ICOC that elevated the Evangelist within the leadership model of the International Churches of Christ. They examine what was good and what went wrong, as well as the lessons that can be learned. The discussion springs from a paper Andy wrote for his DMin at Abilene Christian University. There are important takeaways in this conversation for any and all, not just the ICOC. We survive on your donations: donate at www.commongroundsunity.org/donate. CGU has a vision to create and support gatherings of unity-minded Christians around the globe. Imagine the good news of these gatherings modeling the prayer of Jesus in our divided world. Please give us feedback by posting your thoughts and suggestions on our Facebook Page. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068486982733 Please check out commongroundsunity.org to learn more about CGU, how to subscribe to the newsletter, join the Facebook group, or find the YouTube Channel. Check out our gatherings on the About page, where you can connect with other unity-minded Christians in your area. If you cannot find a gathering in your area, we can help you start one. It's not difficult or time-consuming, and we will help you out along the way. It really does, simply, start with a cup of coffee. If you want to volunteer or ask questions, please email John at john@commongroundsunity.org. Until next time, God bless, and remember, “Unity Starts With A Cup of Coffee.”

TOPIC: Re-entry, Housing, and Rebuilding Lives After Incarceration Bryan Hudson, DMin, interviewed Dr. Michelle Daniel Jones, a returning citizen, scholar, and Executive Director of Constructing Our Future, a reentry and housing program for formerly incarcerated women in Indiana. Dr. Jones shares how Constructing Our Future was created by incarcerated women to provide safe, stable housing, personalized support, and pathways to education, employment, and family reunification. She explains the systemic barriers women face after incarceration—especially housing insecurity—and why person-first language like “returning citizen” is essential to restoring dignity. The episode also features her town hall presentation, “Housing: A Place to Begin Again,” and includes a call for churches, individuals, and community partners to support this work through advocacy, collaboration, and helping develop the Newton House, a larger permanent residence for women reentering society. Summary of Podcast Episode | Conversations In Focus https://0554ca18-1367-4da4-bc98-15ec46a2abb7.usrfiles.com/ugd/0554ca_526e53ef37ae4eae840c21e22a104db9.pdf Visit Dr. Jones' website: www.constructingourfuture.org Produced by Vision Communications Media LLC www.visionmediaexperts.com

In my conversation with Austin Carty we explore the intersection of writing, personal growth, and the art of preaching. We discuss how technology, particularly AI, has revolutionized content creation, making it more efficient. Austin shares insights from his book, 'Some of the Words Are Theirs,' emphasizing the importance of time in both writing, and life experiences. Austin Carty is pastor of Boulevard Baptist Church in Anderson, South Carolina. He holds an MDiv from Wake Forest University and a DMin from Emory University. He is the author of High Points and Lows: Life, Faith, and Figuring It All Out and The Pastor's Bookshelf: Why Reading Matters for Ministry, which received the 2023 Christianity Today Award of Merit and was named Book of the Year by Preaching magazine. His new book, Some of the Words Are Theirs: The Art of Writing and Living a Sermon. Our conversation delves into themes of hope in hardship, the significance of place and personal history, and the journey of self-discovery through writing. We also touch on the complexities of human emotions, and the challenge of caring in a distracted world, ultimately highlighting the legacy of our words and actions.  

Psalms with Their Backstories series David Rieke, DMin

Veronique Webber and Steve Staten discuss with Andy Fleming the paradigm shift within the ICOC that elevated the Evangelist within the leadership model of the International Churches of Christ. They examine what was good and what went wrong, as well as the lessons that can be learned. The discussion springs from a paper Andy wrote for his DMin at Abilene Christian University. There are important takeaways in this conversation for any and all, not just the ICOC. We survive on your donations: donate at www.commongroundsunity.org/donate. CGU has a vision to create and support gatherings of unity-minded Christians around the globe. Imagine the good news of these gatherings modeling the prayer of Jesus in our divided world. Please give us feedback by posting your thoughts and suggestions on our Facebook Page. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068486982733 Please check out commongroundsunity.org to learn more about CGU, how to subscribe to the newsletter, join the Facebook group, or find the YouTube Channel. Check out our gatherings on the About page, where you can connect with other unity-minded Christians in your area. If you cannot find a gathering in your area, we can help you start one. It's not difficult or time-consuming, and we will help you out along the way. It really does, simply, start with a cup of coffee. If you want to volunteer or ask questions, please email John at john@commongroundsunity.org. Until next time, God bless, and remember, “Unity Starts With A Cup of Coffee.”

Preaching for the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (All Souls), Marie Philomène Péan, D.Min. invites us to trust that in God we are held, we are loved, and we are home: "As a nurse, a chaplain, and a pastoral associate, I have sat beside people as they took their final breath. I have held hands, whispered prayers, and witnessed something sacred: death is not the end. It is a passage. And Jesus walks with us through it."Marie Philomène Péan, D.Min., is a seasoned pastoral leader, spiritual director, and community builder whose ministry spans continents and cultures. Originally from Haiti, she brings a multilingual and multicultural lens to her work, speaking Haitian Creole, French, English, and conversational Spanish. Philomène holds a Doctorate in Ministry from Andover Newton Theological School and is a Board-Certified Chaplain with the National Association of Catholic Chaplains.Visit www.catholicwomenpreach.org/preaching/11022025 to learn more about Philomène, to read her preaching text, and for more preaching from Catholic women.

The 6D Ascension Journey: Judith Corvin-Blackburn “In the 5th-dimensional frequency, nothing is impossible. All our channels are open.” We are in a time of great evolutionary shifts on our planet. Behind the pain and chaos of our current world, a new human is emerging. We are becoming who we have been designed to be, reclaiming our natural higher dimensional nature as we open DNA strands that have been dormant for milleniums and have limited our innate abilities to live in joy, peace and harmony on a planet where all can thrive. Conscious evolution is not an easy path as old conditioning, fears and beliefs that we have been programmed to believe we need for survival or at least for our well-being, arise to interfere. But we all have the ability to activate courage and ultimately own our ability to create a whole new personal and collective reality. Order the Book >>> The 6D Ascension Journey Judith Corvin-Blackburn, LCSW, DMin is an award-winning author, internationally known teacher, transpersonal psychotherapist & Shamanic Minister, who for over 50 years has inspired people to step into joy, purpose, and inner authority reclaiming their true soul nature, so that collectively we can transform Planet Earth into the loving, peaceful, creative place it is meant to be. She is author of four books, Activating Your 5D Frequency, Empowering the Spirit, Journey to Wholeness and The 6D Ascension Journey. She offers online and zoom classes to empower one's spirit, activate our higher frequency and starseed potential, as well as a Global Shamanic Multidimensional Mystery School. Judith's Website Newsletter Sign Up Here - Stay Connected / SIMRAN's Community  11:11 Talk Radio... Conversations of energy, growth, truth, and wisdom that expand personal growth, empower conscious living, and raise self-awareness.  Learn more about Simran here: www.iamsimran.com www.1111mag.com/  

Rev. Kelvin Walker, former District Superintendent for the Metro District of the C&MA and current VP for Church Ministries shared about the story of Paul and Silas in prison.

In this episode we link back up with Dr. Terry Parkman talking about his new book called Future Church: How Disruption, Innovation, and a New Generation Are Reshaping the Church. We live in an age defined by disruption―artificial intelligence, digital tribalism, decentralization. In our posttruth culture too many leaders cling to outdated models, unsure how to engage a world that has already moved on. Is this the end―or the beginning of something new?Terry Parkman, DMin, recognizes the opportunity within the chaos. With today's cultural, technological, and spiritual paradigms shifting faster than ever, this moment demands more than a few tweaks. It demands transformation. In Future Church, Terry boldly calls leaders to rethink how the Church engages the next generations without diluting the Gospel. With clarity and conviction, he unpacks how leaders can ride the waves of disruption rather than drown beneath them.This is a field guide for those ready to:Understand why the old maps don't work in a posttruth, postinstitutional world.Reframe discipleship for the Adaptive Age without compromising orthodoxy.Embrace decentralization as a model, not the enemy.Recognize and activate the missional power of Generations Z, Alpha, and Beta.Build flexible, Spirit-led systems that thrive in cultural upheaval.Leverage disruption to serve, not silence, the Gospel.This isn't deconstruction. It's a blueprint for what comes next. The message hasn't changed, but everything else must.THE FUTURE ISN'T SOMETHING WE NEED TO FEAR. IT'S SOMETHING WE'RE CALLED TO LEAD.

Host: Steve Macchia, Guests: Mimi Dixon “Let us reflect with gratitude on this movement-making piece of literature that has entered our hearts and the spiritual formation world. We are so grateful for the faithfulness of Richard Foster.” - Steve Macchia Miriam (Mimi) Dixon began her ministry in 1979 and has been building up local churches ever since. Holding both an MDiv and DMin degree from Fuller Theological Seminary, she has served in pastoral roles, on the Renovaré Board of Directors, a teacher for the Renovaré Institute, and the faculty for Next Frontiers. In this conversation with Steve Macchia, she graciously shares the influence of Richard Foster and the story behind her book Worth Celebrating: A Biography of Richard J. Foster's Celebration of Discipline. Join the conversation about spiritual discernment as a way of life at www.LeadershipTransformations.org and consider participation in our online and in-person program offerings. Additional LTI spiritual formation resources can be found at www.SpiritualFormationStore.com and www.ruleoflife.com and www.healthychurch.net.  

Send us a textToday, we welcome back to the show Terrie Hellard-Brown to talk about the important topic of forgiveness. Terrie highlights the heart issue behind forgiveness and offers effective ways to teach our kids how to forgive in a healthy, sincere manner. She discusses strategies kids can use to navigate this tough part of relationships, offering 'teachable moments' that will set our kids up for victory over bitterness and division. Parents and grandparents - this episode is good for us, too! No matter our age or stage, we are all faced with the decision to forgive. Listen in and be encouraged and equipped! Be sure to check out Terrie's book, Izzy's Notebook, the beginning of a series on living the One Anothers found in the BIble, with this first book tackling the topic of forgiveness in a creative, engaging, and relatable ways for kids. Empowering families to disciple the next generation every day and everywhere is Terrie Hellard-Brown's mission. Sparking Everyday Discipleship, the podcast hosted by Terrie Hellard-Brown focuses on discipleship in the 21st Century, great books, and sparking important conversations with our children. Terrie is a writer, speaker, missionary, and mom with a BA in sociology and psychology, an MA in education, and is currently working on her DMin. Her books include: Up, Down, and All Around: A Handbook for Discipling Our Children Based on Deuteronomy 6 Building Character Through Picture Books: 25 Family Devotions Based on Favorite Picture Books A World of Pancakes (a picture book on flexibility and culture and including recipes from around the world) Izzy's Notebook (a picture book about forgiveness, Harper and Izzy, Best Friends Forever Series: Living the One Anothers) Drandar the Dragon Knight (chapter book about being who God created us to be). Website: www.terriehellardbrown.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/terriehellardbrownInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ter_h_brown/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terrie-hellard-brown-36218598/Twitter: https://x.com/HellardBrown Book 3 in the Questions for Kids picture book series is now available! Check out Guess Why God Made the Rainbow on Amazon or your favorite book retailer!

  Dr. Nika Spaulding Dr. Kay Daigle Dr. Nika Spaulding makes the complex simple for everyday people. In this episode she joins Dr. Kay Daigle to discuss the first booklet in her series Theology in 10. Her purpose is to help us all easily understand theological issues. Her first booklet tackles the topic of the Trinity. It's hard to grasp, but Nika finds a way to simplify it so that all believers not only understand it but also apply this truth in real life. Don't miss Nika's easy explanation of the series and this topic. If you want to dig deeper into understanding the Trinity, consider ordering one of the resources that Nika suggests below. Resources: Theology in 10 at nikaspaulding.com Delighting in the Trinity: An Introduction to the Christian Faith by Michael Reeves The Deep Things of God: How the Trinity Changes Everything by Fred Sanders Trinity songs playlist Other topics with Nika: Series on justice Series on lament Series on Choosing Trustworthy Resources Trinity songs playlist This episode is available on video as well. Timestamps: 00:20 Introductions 01:35 How Nika got into theology 04:15 The desire to make theology simple for everyone 06:13 Nika's project to make theology accessible in 10 09:45 Elements included in 10 pages 11:47 Goals for the reader 13:31 Why start with the Trinity? 16:03 What are the "So Whats" from the Trinity? 31:54 How to get Theology in 10 32:18 Other resources 33:04 Nika's Closing comments on God's love for us--that all members of the Trinity love and save us.   TranscriptKay >> Hi. I'm Kay Daigle of Beyond Ordinary Women Ministries. I'm here today with Nika Spaulding. Welcome, Nika. Nika >> Thanks, Kay. Kay >> And welcome to all of you out there. We're so glad that you joined us for this conversation. We're going to be talking about theology for everyday people. And let me tell you just a little bit about Nika, why she is an expert in theology. She has a DMin in New Testament. And she also has a master's of theology from DTS. And she is a storyteller and a theologian. And I've heard her described herself as actually a Bible nerd. Nika >> That's so true. Yeah. Kay >> So those are things that I know about Nika. And she has been working on a new project, Theology in 10. I'll let her tell you about that. But it is that theology for everyday people that she has come up with. And so I really want to talk about all those things. And I could but first, I really thought, particularly since we're talking about you as the theologian and theology, that maybe some people don't know anything really about you. So tell us a little bit about your background and why you got into theology in the first place. Nika >> Yeah, it's such a good question. So I didn't grow up in the church, so the fact that I'm like now a Doctor of Ministry in the New Testament is like more shocking maybe to me than anyone. So I actually have a science background. I grew up in a non-Christian home. My parents are believers now. I grew up in a great home. I loved my family. But theology was this really foreign thing to me! This like I knew that books existed. I knew that theology was like a discipline, like zoology, which is my bachelor's degree or like psychology or all of these things. But I got to college and I thought for sure I was going to be a doctor because I love science and I wanted to help people. But to this day, if I see blood or vomit, I get weak in the knees and I pass out like till this day. And I knew this even going into college. So. Oh, yeah, everybody with common sense kept going “Maybe you should pick a different career,” but I didn't have enough common sense at 18. So eventually I realized, Okay, I'm not going to make it through medical school. So now what? And that started me on a journey of trying to figure out what is it that God was calling me to do. At that point, I was walking with the Lord faithfully.

Show Notes:Eddie and Chris are joined by previous guest Austin Carty for the first part of a double episode about his new book, Some of the Words Are Theirs: The Art of Writing and Living a Sermon. Preachers are human, and just like all of us, they are influenced by their past, their community, and their surroundings. Preaching is a form of self-discovery that not everyone experiences, but Austin encourages all of us to take some time to sit with our pasts and write it out--if only to allow the transformational Spirit to work through us.Austin is pastor of Boulevard Baptist Church in Anderson, South Carolina. He earned his MDiv from Wake Forest University and his DMin from Emory University. He is the author of High Points and Lows: Life, Faith, and Figuring It All Out and The Pastor's Bookshelf: Why Reading Matters for Ministry, which received the 2023 Christianity Today Award of Merit and was named Book of the Year by Preaching magazine. Resources:Follow Austin on FacebookBuy Some of the Words are TheirsListen to Austin's previous episode on The Weight

Dr. Billy Gotcher, professor of Theology and director of the DMin program, shares how Jesus lovingly confronts Nicodemus and makes practical application for us today.

“The Lord said to Abram: Go forth from your land, your relatives, and from your father's house to a land that I will show you.” Genesis 12:1    Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!    Podcasts by Series  Level One Book Study  Level Two Book Study    There is a new MAPS-CGS Cohort through Aquinas Institute in St Louis starting in January and applications are currently open to join! Carolyn Wright joins us to tell us a little about the program, who should prayerfully consider if this is the direction God is calling you, what are the logistics of the program, and so much more!   Carolyn Wright, MDiv., DMin serves on the faculty of Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, Missouri. She teaches in the areas of ministerial formation and Christian spirituality. Carolyn directs the Master of Arts in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (MAPS-CGS) degree program, the Theological Field Education program, and the Graduate Certificate in Spiritual Direction program at Aquinas. Carolyn has been a longtime advocate for CGS since she completed Level I (2010) and Level II (2011) formations. She recently completed Level III formation (2025). Carolyn is available to talk further about the MAPS-CGS degree program at Aquinas (wright@ai.edu | 314-256-8879)     Episode 96 – MAPS-CGS Degree  Episode 74 – Spiritual Preparation of the Adult  Episode 98 - Welcoming the Children  Episode 122 - Welcoming the Level 2 and 3 Child PART ONE  Episode 123 - Welcoming the Level 2 and 3 Child PART TWO  Episode 124 - The Work of the Second Plane Child      MAPS-CGS Master's Degree Brochure    REGISTER FOR MAPS CGS Virtual Information Session and Lecture Series    CGSUSA Store        BECOME AN ORGANIZATION MEMBER!  Organization Members are any entity (church/parish, school, regional group, diocese, etc.) that either offers CGS and/or supports those who serve the children as catechists, aides, or formation leaders) Organization Members also receive the following each month:  Bulletin Items - 4 bulletin articles for each month. We have a library of 4 years of bulletin items available on the CGSUSA Website.  Catechist In-Services to download TODAY and offer your catechists. We have six in-services available on the website.  Assistant Formation - prayer service, agenda, talking points, and handouts.  Seed Planting Workshop - prayer service, agenda, and talking points.  Family Events: downloadable, 1/2 day events for Advent, Christmas/Epiphany, and Lent.  Catechist Prayers and prayer services  and so much more!  Click Here to create your Organizational Membership!      AUDIOBOOK:    Audiobook – Now Available on Audible  CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!  The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child's spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook.    Find out more about CGS:       Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd     Follow us on Social Media-  Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”  Instagram-  cgsusa  Twitter- @cgsusa  Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA  YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd 

In this episode of Pastor Matters, we are joined by Kristen Kellen, Tate Cockrell, and Steven McKinion. We discuss the importance of advanced degrees in ministry, exploring the benefits of pursuing a PhD, EdD, or DMin. They emphasize the value of education for personal and professional growth, the structure of various doctoral programs, and the requirements for admission. The conversation also addresses common concerns about time, finances, and motivations for pursuing further education, encouraging listeners to consider the long-term benefits of investing in their ministry education. We hope this episode is encouraging to you today! Let us know how this episode encouraged you or share any feedback you have by emailing us at pastorscenter@sebts.edu. Pastor Matters is produced by Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Find out how Southeastern can equip you to GO by visiting sebts.edu.

Hey friends! Today's episode is a timely one — because if you're anything like me, you've probably felt overwhelmed or anxious at some point lately. I'm joined by Dr. Charles Stone, pastor, author, and brain science nerd (in the best way possible) to talk about how we can actually reduce anxiety and stress using a powerful combo of Scripture and neuroscience.Dr. Charles shares from his new book, Stress Less: 9 Habits from the Bible and Brain Science to Build Resilience and Reduce Anxiety, and gets real about his own freedom story. We talk about pastoring through the chaos of COVID, personal health scares, family trials, and how God has shown up through every moment.He also shares practical tools—like a powerful breathing exercise and the STOPP method—that help us stay grounded and anchored in truth when life gets chaotic. This episode is packed with wisdom, hope, and some “why didn't I learn this sooner?” kind of tips.We chat about: • Leading a church through lockdown and health crises • God's role in our stress response • Bible characters who dealt with extreme stress (hello, Paul and Job!) • Breathing techniques that actually rewire your nervous system • How to spot emotionally safe people in your life • The HEART acronym and why your circle matters • Why theology and brain science go hand in handYou'll walk away feeling encouraged, equipped, and a little nerdy in the best way.Bio: Dr. Charles Stone (MDiv, D Min, PhD) has served in vocational ministry for forty-three years, thirty of which as a senior pastor. He recently completed a nine-year role as lead pastor of West Park Church in London, Ontario, Canada, a multicultural congregation with over a thousand attendees. He has authored eight books and now serves as a coach-consultant to pastors and leaders. Over three hundred of his articles have appeared in magazines and in online publications, such as Outreach Magazine, Leadership Journal, Pastors.com, SermonCentral.com, and Churchleaders.com.His doctorate research for Stress Less involved consulting more than five hundred research studies, articles, and books on stress resilience. He also studied more than four hundred ministry leaders by using surveys, interviews, and data analysis software.Anchor Verses: Luke 2: 52Isaiah 32: 8Connect with Charles Stone: Website: https://charlesstone.comIG: https://www.instagram.com/chucks9886FB: https://www.facebook.com/charles.stone1/

Things get weird when Anaka Robles takes the NETwork down to Gulch's Rest for a night of much needed R&R. Frey gets a little crunk, Uther's attempt to spend some alone time with Anaka Robles doesn't exactly go according to plan and Stynexx catches up with some old friends.Find us on the The Actual Playce Discord ServerHit us up with any questions or comments:Insta @crittalkerspodcastFacebook: crittalkerspodcastX: @Crittalkerspodor drop us an emailthecast@crittalkerspodcast.comBritt H. Plays Frey the RogueShane F. plays “Sir” Uther the BardChris A. plays Stynexx the ArrificerMusic/Sound Effects Include:Recap voice acting by Jennifer Millard, written by Jake PrewittFrey is played by Britt H.Uther is played by Shane FStynexx is played by Chris A."Camera Flash" by MalarBrush"The Details Intro" by Ryan S."The Details Long" by Ryan S."Rest of The Fallen" by GuilhermeBernardes via Pixabay"Comedy - Detective" by Onoychenkomusic via Pixabay"Chamber Strings" by SigmaMusicArt via Pixabay"Dizzy ellectric bolt spell 1" by FxProSound via PixabayAdditional Royalty free Music and SFX Credits that were found via Pixabay:Waves breaking by Dia_PazonMacLeod's Tiki Bar by Tim_Kulig_Free_Music"Food" by Infraction, OddVision https://bit.ly/3YKyWY5Crafter's Mallets by LesiakowerPop Happy Travel Tropical by Top-FlowKnock on door by freesound_communityMain Door Opening-Closing by freesound_community052590_Sliding glass door open and close, big & smooth by freesound_communityWater Being Poured Into a Wine Glass, Water Poured into Pitcher by freesound_communityLike This (Jungle Stomp) by whvlePulsing Tension by Pastichio_Piano_MusicLumbering Bugs by geoffharveyMysterious Ambient by TunetankHuman Body Fall Crashing Down on Pavement Corpse Drop by CryptowistaCork by freesound_communityDragon flapping wings by DRAGON-STUDIOSwoosh 5 by freesound_communityGlass Clink 10 by floraphonicBike Bell by freesound_communitybicycle ride commuting by freesound_communityCarmen - Calm Classical Piano Music by Clavier-MusicLOOP | romantic ambient pad sax | Dmin 120bpm by attic13Преход by Ivanv70Wings of insects by freesound_communityDragonfly by freesound_communityDrawing sword by freesound_communityELECTRIC by olenchicRope Tighten knot 14 by floraphonicSword Swipes by freesound_communityEmpty Glass Table Foley Slide 9 by floraphonicMuffled Sound Of Falling Game Character by UniversfieldNotification Sound Effect by DRAGON-STUDIOMentioned in this episode:Summer and Fall AppearancesGencon: https://www.gencon.com/ Game Con Junction: https://nerdlouisville.org/event/game-con-junction-2025/ Acadecon: https://acadecon.com/Bourbon City Brawl

Rev. Dr. Todd Biermann joins Andy and Steph to talk about why family is so important in Christian theology and gives us simple habits that can make families stronger in both faith and love.   Bio: Married to Heather Stange of Frankenmuth, MI in 1995, Rev. Dr. Todd A. Biermann has always had a passion for fostering marriages and families in God's way. This has been true in his role as a parish pastor of the LCMS for 33 years (most recently at Faith Lutheran, Grand Blanc, MI), in his international ministry with Heather, Life in God's Way, and now as they both are working with Concordia Center for the Family (CCF), a Recognized Service Organization (RSO) of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (LCMS). Dr. Biermann's educational path (BA at Concordia University Nebraska, MDiv at Concordia Seminary St. Louis and DMin at Concordia Theological Seminary Fort Wayne) along with a wide array of field experience has prepared him for his role as the Executive Director of CCF, which he was called to begin in February 2024. He rejoices in the privilege to promote family discipleship, uniting homes and congregations in making lifelong disciples of Jesus. Learn more about Dr. Biermann and CCF at www.concordiafamily.org. Contact him directly at toddbiermann@concordiafamily.org.  Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life Ministry: www.lcms.org/life  LCMS Family Ministry: www.lcms.org/family  Concordia Center for the Family https://www.concordiacenterforthefamily.org/  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Teena is joined by Esau McCaulley, PhD and John Onwuchekwa, DMin to talk about the narratives that shape our life and faith and the power of narrative in hospitality, business and theology. John shares his journey with Portrait coffee and then into his time curating conversations around grief and hope, connected with his book, We Go On. Esau opens up his story with Reading while Black and the shift into writing a much more personal narrative, How Far to the Promised Land. They also chat about their favorite coffee beans, Esau's new church plant and the elusive nature of “success”. Watch this conversation on our youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ShHjeH27DZ0&t=3678s Explore more from Esau McCaulley: https://esaumccaulley.com/ Explore more from John Onwuchekwa: https://www.johno.co/ Discover the Global Faith and Work Initiative here: https://www.globalfaithandwork.com/ Learn more about the Surge Network here: https://www.surgenetwork.com/ 00:00 Introduction to the Series 01:24 Meet the Guests: Dr. Esau McCauley and John Onwuchekwa 06:32 John's Coffee Business Journey 13:56 The Impact of Narrative on Business 22:45 Esau's Journey and Reflections on Ministry 34:39 The Provocative Nature of the Book 35:02 Unexpected Success and Public Attention 35:37 Navigating Fame and Personal Boundaries 37:05 Embracing the Impact of 'Reading While Black' 38:38 Family Dynamics and Hometown Recognition 40:03 Intentional Church Leadership 45:02 The Role of Liturgy in Personal Faith 47:03 Diverse Church Experiences 51:46 Writing and Touring: The Emotional Toll 01:03:57 The Power of Storytelling and Grief 01:07:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

We were joined by Pastor Mike Novotny for a candid and thought-provoking discussion about the topics many Christians shy away from—pornography, sexuality, mental health, and more. In this episode, we explore why avoiding these conversations can cause more harm than good and how approaching them with humility, empathy, and biblical truth can transform lives and relationships. Pastor Mike shares his own story of healing through vulnerability, offers practical insights on addressing tough topics with family and community, and explains why boldness in faith often begins with uncomfortable honesty. Resources Mentioned: Pastor Mike's book: Taboo: Why Christians Should Talk About the Things Nobody Wants to Talk About Time of Grace Ministry Website We want to see YOU at EROS! Invest in your marriage – register today ♥️ https://www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com/eros  Stay in Conversation with Us  IG: @dearyoungmarriedcouple  Website: https://www.dearyoungmarriedcouple.com Email: hello@dearyoungmarriedcouple.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices