Ronn Read has spent decades pastoring in diverse contexts across multiple states, faithfully leading through seasons of change and challenge. Along the way, he has gathered a wealth of hard-earned wisdom—wisdom he generously shares with us in today’s conversation. In this episode, Ronn offers stories, insights, and encouragement that will inspire both leaders and congregations alike.

Now transitioning from his role as an interim pastor, Ronn is stepping into a consulting ministry to continue equipping churches and leaders for health and growth. You can learn more about his work at www.archconsulting.com, or reach out to him directly at [email protected].

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(00:02) Pastoral Wisdom and Ministry Journey
(15:11) Balancing Ministry and Family Commitment
(20:58) Staying Passionate in Ministry Long Term
(35:37) Embracing Adversity in Ministry
(49:23) Building a Support System in Ministry

What happens when your calling takes you somewhere unexpected? For years, pastoral ministry was the center of life — preaching, shepherding, leading God’s people. But then comes a shift… into secular/marketplace leadership.

How do you hold on to your identity when your role changes? How do you carry your sense of purpose into a new world, a new culture, a new mission field?

In this episode, we’re joined again by Johnny Levy talking about faith, calling, and the surprising ways God shows up — even outside the church walls."

My guest today - Johnny Levy is a CEO, Author, Poet, Connector, Dreamer. He creates communities of authentic connection for mutual progress and writes about his passions: Superpowers, Faith, Identity, Creativity, Human Stories.

You can find Johnny here —> https://substack.com/@johnnylevy and pickup his book HERE.

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(00:02) Transitioning From Ministry to Marketplace
(08:47) Discovering True Identity Through God
(19:12) Transitioning Ministry Skills to Workplace
(29:13) Empowering Believers in the Marketplace
(37:39) Finding Hope and Simplicity in Life

In this episode of Passing the Pulpit, we sit down with Manny Pollard, an experienced bi-vocational pastor who’s learned what it means to wear multiple hats while keeping a single focus on God’s calling. We talk about the unique challenges of balancing ministry and marketplace work, the spiritual and emotional toll it can take, and the rhythms that can help avoid burnout.

If you’re an aspiring bi-vocational pastor, church leader, or simply someone navigating competing demands in your own life, this conversation will leave you encouraged and reminded that God sees your faithfulness—even when it feels unseen.

(00:02) Challenges of Bivocational Ministry
(12:39) Balancing Ministry and Capacity Honor
(17:41) Exploring Bivocational Ministry Models
(25:07) Exploring Bivocational Calling and Opportunities
(32:55) Navigating Ministry and Marriage Balance
(42:26) Encouragement for Bivocational Ministry

In this episode, we sit down with a local pastor who made a bold move — transitioning from leading a large traditional church to creating a business-on-mission model that’s been thriving for over fifteen years. He now runs a vibrant coffee house that serves the community throughout the week and transforms into a church on Sundays.

We dive into his incredible journey of blessing the community, building relationships, and hosting events that bring people together. He shares practical insights on what it looks like to integrate faith and business, foster authentic connections, and create spaces where people experience God’s love outside the walls of a traditional church.

Whether you’re a pastor, church planter, entrepreneur, or someone passionate about community impact, this conversation will inspire you to think creatively about ministry in today’s culture.

Learn more about Scott Morgan by visiting Missio Dei Church and Sozo Coffee.

(00:02) Ministry and Mission Through Coffee Shop
(10:40) Balancing Work and Rest in Ministry
(17:29) Business on Mission Strategy and Reflection
(27:14) Integration of Business and Ministry

Can a machine capture divine inspiration, or is that uniquely human?

In this thought-provoking conversation, pastor and pioneering CEO Johnny Levy shares how artificial intelligence is reshaping creativity, identity, and the future of ministry. Together, we explore the promises and pitfalls of AI in sermon writing, leadership, and spiritual formation.

From AI-generated storytelling to the irreplaceable role of the Holy Spirit, we wrestle with questions every ministry leader is facing: Where does technology help, and where does it hinder? Along the way, Johnny offers practical insights on using AI as a tool without losing sight of authenticity, resilience, and the sacred calling of the pastor.

Tune in to discover how faith and technology can work in harmony, and why the heart of ministry still beats strongest through human connection and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

(00:02) Exploring AI Impact in Ministry
(13:01) AI vs Holy Spirit in Sermons
(25:04) Navigating Use of AI in Ministry
(28:46) Navigating AI Tools in Ministry
(37:31) AI vs Human Connection in Ministry

You can find Johnny here —> https://substack.com/@johnnylevy and pick up his book HERE.

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Coming Soon!!

Ever wonder how seasoned pastors navigate ministry's toughest challenges? Passing the Pulpit brings generations together for insightful, encouraging conversations where veteran leaders mentor emerging ones on life, faith, and shepherding God's people. Each episode mixes hard-won wisdom with youthful enthusiasm, covering everything from church planting and powerful preaching to conflict resolution and soul care—complete with stories of triumphs and hilarious missteps.

Brought to you by Outreach's SermonCentral.com, it's your audible Paul-and-Timothy experience: practical tips, fresh ideas, and authentic Q&A you can apply this Sunday. Whether you're a long-time pastor investing in the next gen or a young leader craving guidance, join us to preach effectively, lead with boldness, and finish faithfully. Subscribe now and equip your ministry journey!