Leading Conversations

What does revival look like in America's rural communities? John Craft offers a front-row perspective from Wyoming's Bighorn Basin, where churches in towns of just 4,000 people regularly see 250-300 in attendance, many being young families and former Mormons finding new faith in Christ.

Craft's journey to this vantage point follows an unexpected path. Growing up in a theologically liberal church where he was deeply involved yet never heard the gospel, his transformation began at a rescue mission Bible study. Today, as Regional Executive Director for Rocky Mountain Church Network (part of Venture Church Network, formerly Conservative Baptists), he travels 35,000 miles annually serving churches across four western states.

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Join us as Mike reflects on his formative years, shaped by a legacy of faith passed down by his family and community. He highlights how pivotal moments at youth camps not only solidified his own faith but also fostered an environment where young people could experience life-changing spiritual encounters. With an unwavering commitment to reaching lost souls, Mike emphasizes the role of partnerships between churches as a strategic approach to overcome current leadership gaps in their communities.

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Brad Little shares his inspiring journey from a childhood marked by insecurity in Calgary to becoming a lead pastor and regional executive director in Minnesota. Highlighting the significance of mentorship, prayer, and community connection, this episode emphasizes the essence of leadership in the face of challenges, especially during moments of division.

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How do legacies shape the leaders we become? Join us as we sit down with the inspiring Jim Jessup from Jessup University, who shares intimate stories of his family's remarkable church planting and leadership history. From his grandfather's founding of San Jose Bible College in 1939 to Jim's journey of answering a call to ministry at 16, Jim opens up about the enduring impact of his family's devotion to faith. Listen as he reflects on balancing basketball and ministry, and how his education at Lincoln Christian Seminary broadened his denominational perspectives towards a more inclusive faith in Christ.

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In our conversation, Roy illuminates the extraordinary ways his community engages with the local Mormon population through initiatives like "Love Gives" and "God's Garage," exemplifying compassion-driven outreach. We discuss how these programs foster meaningful connections, offering genuine support through acts of service and relational evangelism. With cultural insights into how holidays like Christmas are uniquely celebrated within the LDS community, Roy's stories reveal the opportunities for Christians to build bridges with their neighbors. Tune in for a heartwarming account of faith, compassion, and the unexpected power of relationships in fostering community growth and personal transformation.

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Steve Ingram's journey is nothing short of inspiring, reflecting both profound faith and unyielding resilience. Imagine facing the heartbreak of losing a spouse shortly after welcoming your child into the world. Steve opens up about his life, shaped by his upbringing in a devout Christian family and his commitment to ministry, which led him to become a youth pastor and eventually the pastor of Desert Springs Community Church. His candid reflections on overcoming personal loss with his family and faith community's support are heartwarming and moving. Join us as we explore Steve’s journey and his inspiring dedication to empowering others to harness their spiritual gifts for meaningful impact.

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What if a single injury could change your life's trajectory? Join us as we explore the incredible journey of Billy Claudio from Scottsdale, Arizona, whose life took a dramatic turn from aspiring engineer to influential Christian leader after a pivotal childhood event. Billy recounts his transformative experiences growing up in a devout Catholic, military family and the profound impact of his mother's spiritual awakening during a charismatic renewal. Unpack how a home Bible study at age 12 became the catalyst for Billy and his brother's commitment to Christ, reshaping their futures against the backdrop of their father's secular ambition

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Alan Adler's journey is a tale of faith, family, and transformation. In it, He shares how his father's quest, sparked by the Book of Revelation, led their family to embrace Christianity. Through Alan's story, we see how a dramatic church event and the camaraderie with his childhood friend, Karl Roth, played pivotal roles in nurturing his spiritual growth within a supportive community. His entry to ministry began as an active volunteer at his church that led to a staff position. That led to seminary, working with church planters, and contemplating hospital chaplaincy during the pandemic. Alan also shares insights from starting a home church. Wrapping up the discussion on a lighter note, Alan offers a practical tip for making the most of your day at Disneyland.

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Brendan Prout joins us with a remarkable tale of transformation and faith. Growing up in a Navy family, Brendan's early religious experiences were varied and mostly social in nature, with a particular fondness for youth groups where he could meet girls. However, his perception of church life took a radical turn when he encountered a community that defied musical norms with an electric guitar-playing pastor. This unexpected encounter led Brendan to explore deeper spiritual questions, steering him towards a meaningful commitment to Christianity. Brendan's journey wasn't without its trials. The profound loss of his father in a plane crash set him on a path of rebellion and self-destructive behavior, but it also became a turning point. As he grappled with grief and personal turmoil, Brendan found his way back to faith, rebuilding his life and launching a flourishing college ministry.

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Discover how a young man's journey from anger and rebellion to a life of faith and ministry takes center stage in our latest episode featuring Josh Huseby, a devoted church planter from Bismarck, North Dakota. Explore the powerful narrative of overcoming personal loss and embracing a calling, as Josh recounts the transformative impact of his father's passing and how it catalyzed his initial defiance of faith. Learn how a pivotal moment during his college years reignited his spiritual path, leading him to a unique style of ministry that defies traditional conventions, rooted in his Norwegian heritage and the rugged beauty of North Dakota summers.

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