This is episode 1 of a special 3 part podcast series with our guest Neal Karsten. In episode 1,  Britton and Neal navigate the complexities of church community, discipleship, and the impact of COVID-19 on traditional church models. They reflect on their experiences of gathering in homes, the challenges of empowering others, and the need for foundational changes within the church system. The discussion also highlights the importance of evaluating practices against biblical standards and recognizing the difference between individuals and the church system they operate within. In this conversation, Neal and Britton explore the complexities of church dynamics, particularly in the wake of COVID-19. They discuss the challenges of separating the church from the institutional system, the impact of consumerism on church attendance and engagement, and the importance of foundational issues in church models.