Hot Tea & Hustlin' Realities🎀

In our third & final episode, we sit down with Dr. Terry Buxton, a middle school teacher & a Reverend at Emmanuel Baptist Church, to explore what it truly means to pour out the Bold Faith that has first been poured into you. Dr. Buxton shares how spiritual growth isn’t meant to stop

with us, but instead should overflow into the lives of those in our communities, classrooms, churches, & everyday relationships.✝️ 

Framed through the lens of Social Identity Theory, this conversation highlights how the communities that shape us are also the ones we are called to impact. As we grow in our faith through belonging, mentorship, & shared identity in Christ, we are then equipped to step outward & influence others with intention & purpose. 

Dr. Buxton also unpacks the difference between condemnation & conviction, emphasizing how conviction draws us closer to God while condemnation can push us away. Understanding this distinction allows us to approach others with grace, truth, & a heart posture rooted in love rather than judgment. 

Throughout the episode, Dr. Buxton highlights practical ways believers can pour their faith into others, including: 

✨Recognizing the difference between conviction & condemnation when guiding others. ✨Living out your faith daily in your community, not just within the church walls. ✨Building intentional discipleship through the model of having a Paul, a Barnabas, & a Timothy. 

✨Pouring into others from a place of overflow, not emptiness. 

To close out the Brewing Bold Faith series, we reflect on the deeper themes woven throughout each episode, breaking down Social Identity Theory & how it shapes our understanding of faith, belonging, & community impact. 

This episode is a reminder that bold faith doesn’t stop at personal growth, it multiplies. What has been poured into you is meant to be shared. 

If you’ve been on this journey with us, this final conversation will challenge & inspire you to step into your role within your community with confidence & purpose. 

👉Don’t forget to like, subscribe, & share, & stay until the end for a full series recap! 

Where to find Dr. Terry Buxton: 

● About. Emmanuel Baptist Church of Oklahoma City. (n.d.). https://www.emmanuelbaptistchurchokc.org/about.html 

● Dr. Terry Buxton Reels. Facebook. (n.d.). https://www.facebook.com/revbuxton/reels/

● Pastor Terry L. Buxton, Sr. - Tulsa Public Schools. LinkedIn. (n.d.-b). https://www.linkedin.com/in/revbuxton 

Research Findings: 

● Barna, Dr. G. (2025, September 16). Research Identifies Common Sources of Confusion about Sin . Arizona Christian University.

https://www.arizonachristian.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/AWVI-2025_George-Barn a_Report-09_Common-Sources-of-Confusion-about-Sin.pdf 

● Hogg, M. A. (1970, January 1). Social Identity theory. SpringerLink. https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-319-29869-6_1 

● Hogg, M. A. (2023). Walls between groups: Self-uncertainty, social identity, and intergroup leadership. Journal of Social Issues, 79, 825–840. https://doi.org/10.1111/josi.12584 

● Vinney, C. (2024, September 3). Social Identity Theory and its impact on behavior. Understanding Social Identity Theory and Its Impact on Behavior. https://www.thoughtco.com/social-identity-theory-4174315

In our second episode, we sit down with Pastor Christian Velez, the Groups Pastor at North.Church, to explore what it means to simmer & sip on Bold Faith. Pastor Velez shares his personal journey of coming to the United States & the challenges of starting over in a new country; navigating cultural differences, uncertainty, & the struggle of building a sense of belonging. Through those experiences, he discovered just how essential community is in sustaining & strengthening faith & still uses those skills to this day.✝️ 

Framed through the lens of Social Identity Theory, this conversation examines how the groups we belong to shape our identity, values, & spiritual growth. Pastor Velez explains how being rooted in a Christ-centered community helped him remain grounded in his faith & develop deeper connections with others walking a similar path. 

Throughout the episode, Pastor Velez highlights practical ways believers can rely on community to strengthen their faith, including: 

✨Leaning on others during difficult seasons. 

✨Creating spaces for accountability. 

✨Surrounding yourself with people who pursue the same spiritual goals. ✨Practicing vulnerability: Opening up about struggles so that faith can be strengthened through shared support rather than isolation. 

This episode is a reminder that bold faith is rarely built alone. Instead, it grows in the context of meaningful relationships; where encouragement, accountability, & shared identity in Christ help believers persevere through life’s challenges.

If you’re looking to deepen your faith & understand the power of community in spiritual growth, this conversation with Pastor Velez will encourage you to lean into the people God has placed around you. 

👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, & share if this episode helped you with ways to simmer & sip your faith! 

Where to find Pastor Christian Velez: 

● North.Church. (n.d.). North Church. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@NorthChurch

● Pastor Rodney. (2025, January 6). Up and to the Right Podcast | Episode 116: A Conversation with Christian Velez. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eNGokTSK4ho  

● Velez, C. (2021, November 10). A Place At The Table Week 1- Christian Velez. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T7xFIPI8dwM  

● North.Church. (n.d.-a). Leadership team. North.Church. https://www.north.church/leadership  

Research Findings: 

● Barna, Dr. G. (2025, October 21). Americans’ Redefinition of Sinful Behavior Fuels Social Turbulence. Arizona Christian University. https://www.arizonachristian.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BARNA_AWVI-2025_Re lease-10-Social-Turbulence-Due-to-Redefining-Sinful-Behavior.pdf 

● Barna, Dr. G. (2025, March 12). Americans Minimize the Role of God in Their Life. Arizona Christian University. https://www.arizonachristian.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/CRC-Release-AWVI-2-M ar-12-2025-Final.pdf 

● Barna, Dr. G. (2025, September 16). Research Identifies Common Sources of Confusion about Sin . Arizona Christian University. https://www.arizonachristian.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/AWVI-2025_George-Barn a_Report-09_Common-Sources-of-Confusion-about-Sin.pdf 

In this FIRST episode of Brewing Bold Faith, we dive deep into what it truly means to live with bold faith... especially in the face of hardship, uncertainty, & change✝️ 

We explore how Social Identity Theory helps us understand the power of belonging, community, & shared beliefs in shaping our spiritual lives. When faith becomes part of who we are, it doesn’t just stay personal; it becomes a source of strength that empowers us to serve others. 

Our special guest, Dr. Steve Mills, shares his powerful journey from serving in the military & working as a firefighter to now serving others as a hospice chaplain. Through his experiences on the front lines of life, loss, & healing, Dr. Mills reflects on how bold faith, & a strong community of support, helped him persevere. He also opens up about how those experiences led him to discover meaningful ways to walk alongside, encourage, & care for others in their most difficult seasons. 

In this episode, you’ll learn: 

✨What “bold faith” looks like in everyday life 

✨Why community impacts spiritual resilience 

✨The role of identity in spiritual growth 

✨How life’s challenges can shape a heart for service 

✨Ways to use your faith to support & uplift others 

Whether you’re navigating a tough season or searching for deeper purpose, this conversation will inspire you to stand strong, stay connected, & live out your faith with courage & compassion. 

👉Don’t forget to like, subscribe, & share if this episode started brewing some faith in you! 

Where to find Dr. Steve Mills: 

● Mills, S. (n.d.-b). Even Though I Walk. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@EvenThoughIWalk 

● Mills, S. (2026, January 12). Even though I walk. Apple Podcasts. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/even-though-i-walk/id1802296493  ● Mills, S. (n.d.). Even Though I Walk. Spotify. https://open.spotify.com/show/7e80jQE58K6bQrnxxzy5iR?si=p8Z2-flnSASQZ3BoGgin MQ 

● LinkedIn. (n.d.). Steve Mills - Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States | professional profile | linkedin. LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mills-b4a7a635/

Sources: 

● Barna, Dr. G. (2025, March 12). Americans Minimize the Role of God in Their Life. Arizona Christian University. https://www.arizonachristian.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/CRC-Release-AWVI-2-M ar-12-2025-Final.pdf 

● Barna, Dr. G. (2025, September 16). Research Identifies Common Sources of Confusion about Sin . Arizona Christian University. https://www.arizonachristian.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/AWVI-2025_George-Barn a_Report-09_Common-Sources-of-Confusion-about-Sin.pdf 

● Rodriquez, J. (2024). Social Identity theory: Psychology: Research starters: EBSCO research. EBSCO. https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/psychology/social-identity-theory 

In this episode, we sit down with Pastor Christian Velez, the Groups Pastor at North.Church, to explore what it means to simmer & sip on Bold Faith. Pastor Velez shares his personal journey of coming to the United States and the challenges of starting over in a new country; navigating cultural differences, uncertainty, & the struggle of building a sense of belonging. Through those experiences, he discovered just how essential community is in sustaining & strengthening faith. Pastor Christian explores how still uses those skills to this day.✝️Framed through the lens of Social Identity Theory, this conversation examines how the groups we belong to shape our identity, values, & spiritual growth. Pastor Velez explains how being rooted in a Christ-centered community helped him remain grounded in his faith & develop deeper connections with others walking a similar path.Throughout the episode, Pastor Velez highlights practical ways believers can rely on community to strengthen their faith, including:✨Leaning on others during difficult seasons.✨Creating spaces for accountability.✨Surrounding yourself with people who pursue the same spiritual goals.✨Practicing vulnerability: Opening up about struggles so that faith can be strengthened through shared support rather than isolation.This episode is a reminder that bold faith is rarely built alone. Instead, it grows in the context of meaningful relationships; where encouragement, accountability, & shared identity in Christ help believers persevere through life’s challenges.If you’re looking to deepen your faith & understand the power of community in spiritual growth, this conversation with Pastor Velez will encourage you to lean into the people God has placed around you.👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, & share if this episode helped you with ways to simmer & sip your faith!Where to find Pastor Christian Velez:*North.Church. (n.d.). North Church. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@NorthChurch *Pastor Rodney. (2025, January 6). Up and to the Right Podcast | Episode 116: A Conversation with Christian Velez. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eNGokTSK4ho *Velez, C. (2021, November 10). A Place At The Table Week 1- Christian Velez. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T7xFIPI8dwM *North.Church. (n.d.-a). Leadership team. North.Church. https://www.north.church/leadership Research Findings:Barna, Dr. G. (2025, October 21). Americans’ Redefinition of Sinful Behavior Fuels Social Turbulence. Arizona Christian University. https://www.arizonachristian.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BARNA_AWVI-2025_Release-10-Social-Turbulence-Due-to-Redefining-Sinful-Behavior.pdf Barna, Dr. G. (2025, March 12). Americans Minimize the Role of God in Their Life. Arizona Christian University. https://www.arizonachristian.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/CRC-Release-AWVI-2-Mar-12-2025-Final.pdfBarna, Dr. G. (2025, September 16). Research Identifies Common Sources of Confusion about Sin . Arizona Christian University. https://www.arizonachristian.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/AWVI-2025_George-Barna_Report-09_Common-Sources-of-Confusion-about-Sin.pdf

In this FIRST episode of Brewing Bold Faith, we dive deep into what it truly means to live with bold faith... especially in the face of hardship, uncertainty, & change✝️

We explore how Social Identity Theory helps us understand the power of belonging, community, & shared beliefs in shaping our spiritual lives. When faith becomes part of who we are, it doesn’t just stay personal; it becomes a source of strength that empowers us to serve others.

Our special guest, Steve Mills, shares his powerful journey from serving in the military & working as a firefighter to now serving others as a hospice chaplain. Through his experiences on the front lines of life, loss, & healing, Steve reflects on how bold faith, & a strong community of support, helped him persevere. He also opens up about how those experiences led him to discover meaningful ways to walk alongside, encourage, & care for others in their most difficult seasons.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

✨What “bold faith” looks like in everyday life

✨How community strengthens spiritual resilience

✨The role of identity in spiritual growth

✨How life’s challenges can shape a heart for service

✨Ways to use your faith to support & uplift others

Whether you’re navigating a tough season or searching for deeper purpose, this conversation will inspire you to stand strong, stay connected, & live out your faith with courage & compassion.

👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, & share if this episode started brewing some faith in you!

Where to find Steve Mills:

https://www.youtube.com/@UCwVbC85S8LsNh4-bzjDrGVw

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/even-though-i-walk/id1802296493

https://open.spotify.com/show/7e80jQE58K6bQrnxxzy5iR?si=p8Z2-flnSASQZ3BoGginMQ

https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mills-b4a7a635?utm_source=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=member_ios

Sources used for data in this episode:

* Barna, Dr. G. (2025, March 12). Americans Minimize the Role of God in Their Life. Arizona Christian University. https://www.arizonachristian.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/CRC-Release-AWVI-2-Mar-12-2025-Final.pdf

* Barna, Dr. G. (2025, September 16). Research Identifies Common Sources of Confusion about Sin . Arizona Christian University. https://www.arizonachristian.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/AWVI-2025_George-Barna_Report-09_Common-Sources-of-Confusion-about-Sin.pdf

* Rodriquez, J. (2024). Social Identity theory: Psychology: Research Starters: EBSCO Research. EBSCO. https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/psychology/social-identity-theory

In this episode, we dive into the latest update on the Jesse Mack Butler case, breaking down how recent developments are favoring his victims & what this means moving forward. We discuss accountability, justice, & why these outcomes matter for the community.

In the second half, we shift gears to the Super Bowl halftime show featuring Bad Bunny. From mixed reactions to powerful cultural representation, we explore the emotions surrounding his performance & highlight how Puerto Rican culture was brought to one of the world’s biggest stages.

This episode blends real-life justice with pop culture commentary, offering honest conversation, reflection, & perspective on two moments that sparked major public response!

After three months off, I’m finally back... & a lot has changed✨🎙️

In this episode, I get real about my career shift, the mindset changes I’ve made, & why I refuse to settle for toxic environments disguised as “success.” I reflect on the difference between working under corporate greed a year ago & now being part of a company that truly wants its employees to win.

I also share how I’ve stayed invested in the Stillwater case & what it means to use your voice, faith, & platform for something bigger than yourself.

This is for anyone who’s tired of surviving & ready to start thriving; personally, spiritually, & professionally💖✨

In this episode, we take you on a journey through our recent magical vacation to Disney World, where we embraced the joy of relaxation & the importance of taking time off. As we share our favorite moments & the memories made, we also delve into the significance of winding down in our fast-paced lives.

In a contrasting twist, we discuss the ongoing court case in Payne County concerning Jesse Butler, exploring its implications on the community & the broader legal landscape. Join us as we navigate the balance between adventure & reality, reminding ourselves that it's essential to unwind even amidst life’s challenges.

This episode is dedicated to the victims with incredible courage. We delve into Payne Counties legal framework for protecting victims of abuse & sexual violence, highlighting the courage it takes to speak out & seek justice. Through the lens of the Jesse Butler case, we examine the systemic barriers victims face & explore what changes are needed to ensure their voices are truly heard & their safety is prioritized.

Join us as we delve into the true importance of Oklahoma's state questions & how they shape our future. In this episode, we're joined by a special guest who volunteers for SQ 836, offering unique insights into what this question means for Oklahomans & the secrets it might reveal. Don't miss this eye-opening discussion on the power of your vote & the hidden truths behind the questions on your ballot.