Next Step Leadership

In the second part of their conversation with Monte Drenner, Tracy and Chris continue exploring the practical ways faith brings strength and resilience. Monte offers wisdom for leaders, pastors, and anyone walking through hard times. His words are gentle but direct—acknowledging the struggles of life while pointing toward God’s peace. This episode is more than an interview; it’s an invitation to pause, to breathe, and to believe that healing is possible.

https://www.mtccounseling.com/about-us

Sacred Space book - https://www.mtccounseling.com/thescaredspace

Counselor, life coach, and author Monte Drenner joins Tracy and Chris for a meaningful discussion about hope and healing. In this first episode, Monte shares his story and his calling to walk alongside people in their struggles. He talks about the realities pastors and leaders face today—the long journeys, the deep pain, the hidden disappointments—and how faith offers peace in the midst of it all. Listening to Monte reminds us that even when the weight feels heavy, God’s hope and presence are greater.

https://www.mtccounseling.com/about-us

Sacred Space book - https://www.mtccounseling.com/thescaredspace

Most weeks, Next Step Leadership features a guest. But this time, it’s just Tracy Reynolds and Chris Maxwell talking together. Their conversation is refreshingly honest—about vocational ministry, about writing books, and about the ongoing purpose behind serving God and people. They share lessons learned and lessons still being learned. Listening to them feels like sitting with two friends who care enough to speak the truth in love. If you’ve ever needed encouragement to keep serving faithfully, this episode will remind you that you’re not alone.

https://chrismaxwell.me/

Second Chair Leadership - Tracy Reynolds' book

The conversation with Ben Crisp continues as he talks more openly about the challenges he and his wife have faced—especially walking through a season of deep disappointment. Tracy and Chris draw out his honest reflections on trusting God when life doesn’t go as planned, and on learning how faith holds us steady through the unknown. Ben’s story is not just about ministry; it’s about living with resilience, grace, and hope. As you listen, you’ll be encouraged to see God’s hand in your own story, even in the chapters that feel unfinished.

https://reflection.church/leadership

Sermons - https://reflection.church/sermons

Ben Crisp’s story is a reminder of God’s presence through every season of life. From experiencing God’s touch as a young boy, to his years as a student at Emmanuel University, to graduate school, marriage, parenting, and now pastoring a church in Oklahoma—Ben has seen God’s faithfulness at every step. In this first part of the conversation, Tracy Reynolds and Chris Maxwell listen as Ben shares how God has shaped his calling and sustained him through both joys and disappointments. His words invite us to reflect on our own journeys and remember: God is with us, too.

https://reflection.church/leadership

Sermons - https://reflection.church/sermons

In the second half of their interview with G. Richard Hoard, Tracy and Chris draw out even more depth and wisdom. Richard’s storytelling gifts shine as he talks about faith, creativity, and the power of words to shape lives. This episode feels both reflective and motivating, reminding us how powerful a well-lived story can be. As you listen, ask yourself: What can I take from Richard’s journey? How might his principles apply to my own? And what new steps of faith is God calling me to take today?

https://grichardhoard.com/

Author and storyteller G. Richard Hoard joins Tracy and Chris for a fascinating conversation. In this first half of their dialogue, Richard shares glimpses of his background, his passion for writing, and his perspective on life. It feels like sitting across the table from a seasoned friend—listening, learning, and laughing together. This is the kind of conversation that Next Step Leadership loves to share: stories that encourage, challenge, and inspire. So, listen. Pass it along. And remember—your story matters too.

https://grichardhoard.com/

The conversation with Brandon McDaniel continues as Tracy and Chris move deeper into his reflections—lessons learned, people who influenced him, his obedience to God’s call into ministry, the adjustments he’s had to make, and the rhythms he’s discovered for leading well. Brandon’s words are honest, practical, and encouraging. If Part 1 stirred your curiosity, Part 2 will speak even more clearly to where you live today. We need more young leaders like Brandon—caring for people, walking by true faith in God, and taking time to live with integrity.

https://www.mytc.org/our-team

Brandon McDaniel brings a story worth hearing. From his younger years, through his time at Emmanuel University, to life with his wife and children, to serving on a church staff, and now leading as a pastor—everyone can learn from his journey. In this conversation, Tracy Reynolds and Chris Maxwell begin unpacking the experiences that have shaped Brandon—his faith, his calling, and his desire to invest in others. You’ll hear not just information, but inspiration. This first part of the interview will make you lean in closer and reflect on your own story. How does Brandon’s story connect with yours? What lessons can you carry forward?

https://www.mytc.org/our-team

In this second conversation, Chris and Tracy talk with Brianna Edwards—a licensed child therapist, mom, and author of the children’s book The Little Roo Who Stuffed Her Stuff. Designed as a tool for parents, counselors, and educators, the book encourages self-awareness and healthy conversations on difficult topics, with resources to help adults guide children well. Brianna shares lessons from her years as a caregiver, her work as a therapist, and her role as a mom. Together, they explore how to lead with compassion through seasons of sadness, grief, disability, and loss, and how ministries like Nathaniel’s Hope offer vital support. Her insights challenge us to see, serve, and walk alongside families living with special needs.

https://nathanielshope.org/

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0DHWF4CFF?ingress=0&visitId=3d7ac8d2-5089-4f0b-a941-5af71c4fa978&ccs_id=43465036-05d2-4280-8b6f-2f05b806884a