Faithly Podcast

Join us as we explore the inspiring life and impactful work of Mark Atkinson, associate minister at the Church of God of East New York and New York City area director for Care Portal. Uncover how Mark's personal journey through challenging neighborhoods in Brooklyn and Long Island shaped his understanding of racial identity and self-worth. He found solace in faith during his darkest times, leading him from struggles with suicidal thoughts to becoming a preacher at 14. Mark opens up about how his spiritual transformation has guided him through historical challenges like gerrymandering and redlining, and how it now fuels his mission to bring the wholeness of heaven to earth.

Mark's journey doesn't stop at faith; it extends into the realms of activism and teaching. Discover how a transformative performance at Hofstra University, where he embodied James Weldon Johnson, connected Mark to a legacy of faith-driven social justice. This experience ignited his passion for teaching others about the intersection of faith and justice, particularly kingdom justice, and how this has shaped his professional path. Mark shares profound insights into the unity of justice and faith, emphasizing the necessity of diversity and collective impact to create a more equitable society.

We'll also take a closer look at Mark's role with LeadNYC and Care Portal, focusing on their transformative work during the pandemic. By fostering collaboration among local leaders and organizations, they’ve created a shared vision for change in struggling neighborhoods. Learn about the innovative ways these initiatives address systemic issues, particularly in the foster care system, and how films like "The Sound of Hope: The Possum Trot Story" can inspire action for holistic community renewal. Mark's reflections on his experiences and commitment to ensuring health, wealth, and representation for all weave a compelling narrative of cities envisioned to mirror the culture of heaven.

(00:01) Journey to Finding Purpose Through Faith
(09:27) Faith, Activism, and Kingdom Justice
(20:58) Embracing Diversity and Collective Impact
(26:21) Building Collective Impact With Care Portal
(42:02) Renewing Cities for Holistic Change

Website - https://faithly.co
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/faithly.co

Mark Atkinson
https://faithly.co/profiles/markatkinson

Care Portal
https://www.careportal.org

Sound of Hope
https://www.angel.com/movies/sound-of-hope-the-story-of-possum-trot

Imagine attending an event for the first time and feeling an overwhelming sense of brotherhood, as if you'd known these people all your life. That's exactly what happened to our guest, Jim Brown, at a 30 for 30 event. In our latest episode of Faithly Stories Podcast, Jim takes us through his profound experiences and insights gained from his ministry work, where divine appointments play a pivotal role. Balancing personal challenges like back pain with his vision, Jim highlights the transformative power of friendship and affirmation, especially in ministry among men. His journey offers a unique look at the intersection of personal faith and professional consulting, as Jim works with both companies and churches to cultivate strong cultures and clear purposes.

We also tackle the complex topic of board governance within the church, an area where spiritual oversight and administrative responsibilities often collide. Jim shares his views on aligning church boards with scriptural principles while meeting societal demands for accountability. Our conversation explores the potential for power struggles when elder-led spiritual oversight and board-led administrative duties are not in harmony. Additionally, Jim shares compelling stories of cultural transformation in organizations, illustrating both the triumphs and potential pitfalls of such endeavors. As the episode concludes, Jim reflects on his personal journey of leadership transition and seeks wisdom for a seamless transition that empowers new leaders to thrive. Tune in for a deep dive into faith-driven leadership and governance that promises to enrich your understanding and inspire purposeful change.

(00:01) Faithly Stories Podcast
(07:24) Board Governance in the Church
(18:37) Transforming Board Governance Through Faith

Website - https://faithly.co
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/faithly.co

Jim Brown
https://faithly.co/profiles/jimbrown

Org Health
https://www.orghealthteam.com

Discover the transformative power of faith and resilience as we welcome Bonny Andrews, the visionary founder of Campus Harvest, to our podcast. Bonny's journey from a challenging upbringing in India to becoming an inspiring force for students worldwide is nothing short of remarkable. Hear how his family's faith was ignited by the miraculous healing of his mother and how that pivotal moment steered him towards a life dedicated to ministry. Through Live Jam, Bonny has become a beacon of hope, creatively connecting with urban youth and encouraging them to dream big while trusting in divine provision. His story is a vivid reminder of the profound impact relationships and faith can have on pursuing God-sized dreams.

Explore the intense themes of spiritual warfare and the essential role of prayer in Bonny's life and ministry. We delve into personal stories and testimonies that illustrate how persistent faith and intercession, particularly from mothers, have been catalysts for transformation and open doors that seemed firmly shut. Bonny draws a stark contrast between various religious practices and the Christian belief of God reaching out to humanity, emphasizing prayer as a powerful precursor to action and change. His insights encourage us to continue praying for loved ones, reinforcing the idea that prayer can be a strategic "airstrike" in the spiritual battle for hearts and minds.

Join us as we follow Bonny's bold journey from India to New York City, marked by a spiritual calling and a commitment to youth outreach through music and prayer. Amid financial challenges and a global pandemic, Bonny's leap of faith led to the creation of an inspiring anthem uniting New York's churches. His story highlights the resilience and faith required to turn adversity into a powerful testimony, underscoring the significance of collaboration and inspiration in reaching a wider audience. Whether it's through organizing Christian rock concerts or engaging with students on college campuses, Bonny's mission is clear: to empower the next generation to embrace their faith and pursue their dreams with courage and conviction.

(00:01) Global Vision and Chief Dreamer
(07:53) Power of Prayer and Spiritual Warfare
(13:04) Youth Outreach Through Music and Prayer
(21:52) From Private Testing to Public Testimony
(28:18) Revival on College Campuses
(37:58) Marriage, Ministry, and Faith Journey
(49:57) Empowering Church Leaders Through Faith

Website - https://faithly.co
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/faithly.co

Bonny Andrews
https://faithly.co/profiles/bonnyandrews

Campus Harvest
http://www.campusharvest.org 

Can a faith journey truly transform your life? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Justin Mattera, a pastor, father, and entrepreneur whose spiritual path took surprising turns from questioning his beliefs in his youth to embracing a profound commitment to his faith. Discover how a pivotal gap year in Ohio reignited Justin’s faith and led him to a life devoted to ministry in New York City. Justin shares how he navigates the complex landscape of traditional churches versus modern congregations, emphasizing the importance of authentic relationships and understanding God beyond intellectual knowledge.

Justin reveals the significant impact of family and upbringing on his spiritual journey, painting a vivid picture of how his parents' dedication to spiritual education laid the groundwork for his beliefs. He discusses the choice to view New York as a mission field, highlighting the advantages of ministering in a familiar environment. Through personal stories, Justin underscores the role of family influence and personal experiences in evolving one's faith, while candidly addressing the challenges of maintaining a relationship-focused understanding of faith amid theological queries.

We also explore Justin’s innovative approach to church growth in New York City, focusing on community, discipleship, and prayer rather than high production value. Hear about the blessings of shifting to a house church model ahead of the pandemic and the strategic decisions behind maintaining smaller congregations for genuine interpersonal connections. As Justin shares insights from his journey in parenthood and the digital realm, he reminds us of the power of authentic relationships, sacrifice, and the enduring strength of faith in shaping our lives. Tune in for a heartfelt episode filled with wisdom, challenges, and the promise of future collaborations through digital platforms.

(00:01) Navigating Faith
(08:38) Faith, Family, and Mission
(23:01) Adapting Church Model for Growth
(30:00) Roots of Church Growth
(41:39) The Blessing of Children and Sacrifice
(47:56) Connecting Through Faithly Digital Platform

Website - https://faithly.co
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/faithly.co

Justin Mattera
https://faithly.co/profiles/justinmattera

Zion NYC
https://zion.nyc

What happens when a pastor's son journeys far from faith only to find his way back through a powerful spiritual awakening? Adam Durso shares his remarkable story, offering an inspiring glimpse into his past of resistance, transformation, and ultimately, a renewed devotion to ministry. Through his narrative, we promise you'll gain insights into the significance of a personal relationship with God, even when faith seems distant. Adam's experiences illustrate the profound impact of family, prayer, and divine intervention, setting the stage for a discussion on how to connect with those who might feel detached from their spiritual roots.

In an age where language and delivery play crucial roles in spreading faith, we explore how ministry must adapt to reach younger generations effectively. By drawing inspiration from Jesus' relatable teachings, Adam and I examine the delicate balance between staying true to the core message of Christianity and making it accessible to Gen Z and the Alpha generation. Discover how initiatives like Faith Breathes and the 10 zip codes Project aim to make a tangible difference in communities, highlighting the church's role in fostering spiritual awakening and societal impact.

Join us as we also venture into the intersection of faith and public service, with Adam sharing his experiences in political spheres and the importance of authenticity and character. Through captivating stories and personal reflections, we emphasize the power of genuine connections, particularly in a world that often feels fragmented. Experience the vibrant energy of New York City through Adam's eyes, as he reveals how its unique challenges and opportunities contribute to personal and spiritual growth. This episode promises to inspire you to embrace faith in every aspect of your life, finding meaning and purpose in the everyday.

(00:01) Faith Journey Through Ministry Upliftment
(13:07) Language of Generational Ministry
(17:30) Awakening Through Church Ministry Impact
(27:39) Navigating Influence in Cultural Ministry
(39:09) Building Genuine Connections in Disconnected World
(47:17) Embracing the Energy of New York

Website - https://faithly.co
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/faithly.co

Adam Durso
https://faithly.co/profiles/adamdurso

Website
https://adamdurso.com

What happens when faith meets technology? Join us as we explore this question with DK Hammonds, a digital theologian who bridges two seemingly disparate worlds. From feeling a call to ministry as a young child at Mercy Seed Baptist Church to embracing this calling much later in 2021, DK’s journey is a fascinating blend of persistence, faith, and innovation. Our conversation covers his experiences as a Sunday school teacher, youth pastor, and church planter, offering a fresh perspective on how IT and ministry can enrich one's understanding of theology and church operations.

Ever wondered how spiritual callings can affect personal life dynamics? I reflect on my own journey, sharing the pivotal nightclub moment that set me on the path of ministry and how it impacted my first marriage. Discover the challenges of balancing personal relationships and unexpected ministerial demands. From navigating marriage and divorce to tackling the complexities of blended families, we discuss the importance of honest communication and growth through life’s transitions. My experiences underline how profound personal changes can pave the way for new beginnings and a deeper understanding of oneself.

In a world where technology is ever-present, how do we scale the gospel while keeping that crucial human touch? DK provides valuable insights into harnessing technology for church operations, from digital engagements to leadership development within small groups. Learn how technological advancements like AI and learning management systems can support spiritual growth and discipleship, without losing the essence of personal connection. We also explore the significance of seeking divine guidance and forming meaningful partnerships, ensuring both spiritual and personal journeys are fulfilling.

(00:00) Faith Journey
(05:10) Navigating Marriage and Ministry Callings
(13:45) Blended Families and New Beginnings
(25:15) Scaling the Gospel With Human Touch
(31:38) Digital Discipleship and Leadership Development
(44:15) Seeking God's Direction and Partnerships

Website - https://faithly.co
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/faithly.co

DK Hammonds
https://faithly.co/profiles/dkhammonds

Website
https://dkconsults.org

How do you hold on to hope when faced with the relentless challenges of military life? Our special guest, Catherine Hauschild, shares her powerful story of faith and resilience as a military spouse navigating her husband's deployments to combat zones. Her journey through the trials of raising a family during separations, including the birth of a child while her husband was stationed in Afghanistan, offers a profound testament to unwavering trust in a higher plan. Catherine opens up about how a women's Bible study in Germany fortified her faith, providing a community that became her anchor amid the uncertainties of military life.

The conversation takes a heartfelt turn as we delve into the vital role of community support, particularly when grappling with the loss of a loved one. Personal stories of navigating grief, including the tragic suicide of a son, emphasize the importance of open discussions about mental health. Through these experiences, we uncover the healing power of kindness and genuine connections, fostering a deeper faith and meaningful relationships with those on similar paths. This episode serves as a poignant reminder of the need to acknowledge our inherent worth and purpose beyond societal expectations, encouraging us to embrace our authentic selves.

Empowering women through ministry, Catherine shares her inspiring career transition driven by a desire to align her professional life with a spiritual mission. We explore her involvement with MomCo, an outreach ministry connecting mothers to local churches and spiritual growth. With reflections on the unique experiences of life on military bases and the importance of trusting in a divine plan, this episode celebrates the strength found in connection, community, and faith. Join us in this heartfelt discussion that champions collaboration and the eternal perspective of life’s journey.

(00:01) Faith and Family in the Military
(11:19) Community Support in Difficult Times
(17:12) Discovering Self-Worth and Purpose
(21:43) Empowering Women Through Ministry Opportunities
(31:10) Military Life, Faith, and Community
(42:30) The Power of Connection and Faith
(50:02) Empowering Church Leaders Through Faith

Website - https://faithly.co
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/faithly.co

Catherine Hauschild
https://faithly.co/profiles/catherinehauschild

The MomCo by MOPS International
https://www.mops.org/themomco

What turns a rebellious teenager into a leader in digital ministry? Join us as Nils Smith, founder and CEO of Amplify Social Media, reveals his incredible transformation from a troubled youth to a passionate pioneer in faith-based digital engagement. Discover the pivotal moments that led Nils from a jail cell to a spiritual awakening, thanks to the unlikely encouragement of a non-religious mother and a devoted father. His journey of faith through high school challenges and college fraternity bonds laid a foundation for his calling to serve within Christian ministries.

Nils takes us through his unexpected journey into the world of digital ministry, beginning with AOL Instant Messenger and evolving to harness the power of platforms like Facebook for youth outreach. This episode explores how economic pressures and a keen understanding of digital landscapes turned Nils's role as a youth pastor into a groundbreaking career in online church expansion. Learn how his strategic use of social media and digital advertising helped bridge the traditional church experience with new, expansive digital communities, creating a more connected faith environment.

Looking ahead, Nils shares his insights on the future of ministry, highlighting the transformative impact of video content and AI technologies. Platforms such as YouTube and TikTok are reshaping how faith-based content is consumed, while advancements in AI offer exciting opportunities for church operations and outreach. The "three C's" strategy—conversation, celebration, and connection—serves as a blueprint for effective digital ministry, ensuring meaningful engagement in both physical and online spaces. This episode is packed with stories and strategies that illustrate how technology can enhance and inspire faith communities worldwide.

(00:01) Faith Journey of Nils Smith
(04:43) Teenage Shoplifting and Faith Journey
(14:37) Discipleship and Relationship Building in College
(18:47) Social Media Strategy in Youth Ministry
(25:15) Digital Ministry Engagement Strategies
(32:16) The Future of Technology and Engagement

Website - https://faithly.co
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/faithly.co

Nils Smith
https://faithly.co/profiles/nilssmith

Website
https://www.nilssmith.com

Ever wondered how faith and entrepreneurship intersect to transform lives? Join us as we uncover the inspiring journey of Bryan Jernigan, a devoted husband, father, and web designer, whose Southern Baptist upbringing and the profound influence of his grandfather, a preacher, have intricately shaped his spiritual and entrepreneurial paths. At just 12 years old, Bryan's calling was ignited during a church revival, setting the stage for a life marked by both spiritual growth and business acumen. Through candid reflections, he shares the joys and trials of growing up with divorced parents and how these experiences fortified his faith and character.

Journey alongside us through the poignant chapters of navigating faith and relationships, especially after the upheaval of parental divorce. Discover how stepping away from the church for a decade, due to perceived hypocrisy and the absence of a consistent male role model, eventually led to a refreshing and vibrant reconnection with faith through a non-denominational church. Bryan also opens up about meeting his wife in this renewed community, and how these personal connections and experiences reshaped his faith and outlook on life, revealing a deeper understanding of love, trust, and community.

Explore the theme of trusting in God's plan amid uncertainties and financial challenges, particularly highlighted by Bryan's career transition from coaching to business ownership. Despite the comfort of job stability, he courageously embraced change, realizing that financial security had become an idol. Through testing times, the power of community support and timely divine reminders played pivotal roles in reinforcing his faith. From initiating a private school to sharing experiences of rural and urban life, Bryan's journey underscores the unifying and transformative power of shared faith, illustrating how it bridges cultural and geographical divides, drawing people together in pursuit of a common purpose.

(00:01) Faith Journey Through Business Ownership
(04:37) Navigating Faith and Relationships
(14:30) Transitioning From Coaching to Business Ownership
(27:37) Trusting in God Through Transitions
(32:01) Strengthened Faith Through Little Reminders
(36:34) Perceptions of Rural and Urban Life
(43:36) Parental Love, Ministry Collaboration, and Prayer

Website - https://faithly.co
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/faithly.co

Bryan Jernigan
https://faithly.co/profiles/bryanjernigan

Abound Web Design
https://www.aboundwebdesign.com

What role does faith play in navigating the intricate tapestry of family life, especially when challenges like absent father figures and special needs arise? Join us for an insightful conversation with Craig Wilson, a seasoned leader in children's and family ministry, as he shares his deeply personal journey from a fifth-grader's church invitation to becoming a pillar of support for countless families. Craig's story is a testament to the powerful impact of community, mentorship, and faith in overcoming adversity and fostering an inclusive environment for all, including those with special needs.

Our discussion opens the door to a crucial dialogue about the dynamics of engaging parents in children's ministry. Reflecting on the magic of Pixar's appeal to all ages, we examine how churches can create experiences that are both fun and spiritually enriching for families. Craig underscores the significance of fathers stepping into spiritual leadership roles, and we explore how churches can support parents as the primary spiritual guides for their children, transforming children's ministry from a mere childcare service into a meaningful family experience.

Finally, we turn our focus to the intricate balancing act of ministry work and family life. Craig offers honest insights into the joys and struggles of maintaining energy and presence for his family after serving others all day. Through stories of personal growth and the profound influence of community and mentorship, he emphasizes the importance of resilience and collaboration. As Craig transitions to Standing Stone Ministry, he continues his commitment to supporting pastors through challenging times, reinforcing the episode’s overarching theme of service, healing, and the enduring strength of community ties.

(00:01) Navigating Faith and Fatherhood
(14:56) Engaging Parents in Children's Ministry
(29:22) Starting a Special Needs Ministry
(39:02) Balancing Ministry and Family Life
(44:04) Ministry Wisdom and Community Building

Website - https://faithly.co
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/faithly.co

Craig Wilson
https://faithly.co/profiles/craigwilson

Coaching with Craig for Children’s Ministry Leaders
https://faithly.co/groups/preteen-ministry-leaders