In this episode of The Unfair Advantage, host David Hibiske sits down with Pastor Matt Brown, founder of Sandals Church, to reflect on nearly 30 years of church planting. Matt shares his journey from humble beginnings with no funding or network to leading a multi-campus church with over 14 locations. With candor and humility, he unpacks lessons in resiliency, staffing, leadership clarity, and trusting God through setbacks and breakthroughs. His story highlights both the painful missteps and the pivotal decisions that shaped Sandals Church into what it is today, offering wisdom and encouragement for pastors and church planters navigating their own challenges.

Welcome to Episode 043 of The Unfair Advantage Podcast with David Hibiske.

EPISODE LINKS

Sandals Church

Every Day A Miracle, by Matthew Stephen Brown

The Debrief Podcast with Matthew Stephen Brown

Do ministry together! Three gatherings, nine planters, one cohesive journey. Check out the Ascent Leader Church Planter Cohorts. Get more information today at: https://theascentleader.org/cohorts/ 

WHO IS MATT BROWN?

Matthew Stephen Brown is the founding and Senior Pastor at Sandals Church in Riverside, CA. From a small 8-person church plant in 1997, Sandals Church now has 15 physical campuses throughout California, a growing online campus with more than 50 countries tuning in, and a digital presence reaching 110,000 people weekly. In 2021, Matt released his first book, A Book Called YOU: Understanding the Enneagram from a Biblical Perspective. A Book Called YOU helps the reader learn about the person they were made to be and how a biblical view of self-discovery can improve every part of their life. With his second book, Everyday a Miracle: Trusting the God Who Heals Us Inside and Out, Matt asks the question: Where do you go when you need a miracle? He shows the reader that every day, there is an opportunity for a miracle and invites them onto the journey to discover Jesus not only as Savior but as Healer. As Sandals Church continues to grow, the focus is on the gospel being spread throughout the nations as more people embrace the vision of authenticity—being real with ourselves, God, and others.

SPONSORS

Thanks to our sponsor: Generis.

A generous church is a healthy, growing church. So, if you're ready to advance your mission, visit Generis.com/getstarted today!