Pastor Pastor

In this episode, Pastor Mike Ruel of Highlands Bible Church sits down with Wes and Rob to share his journey from corporate America to full-time ministry and how God prepared his heart for local church leadership along the way. Mike reflects on his church’s partnership with NETS, the changing church landscape, and why strong, gospel-centered leadership matters more than ever. 

Is your church characterized by evangelistic zeal? Are you? Evangelism is a team sport involving every member of the church and fueled by gospel preaching that doesn't shy away from the hard truths. In this episode, Wes shares how pastors can lead their churches to move beyond occasional outreach events and build a culture of gospel witness fueled by love, biblical teaching, and personal testimony.

In this episode of Pastor Pastor, Wes unpacks the art and craft of preaching, from the early stages of sermon prep to the final moments of delivery. You'll hear how NETS builds on seminary studies in training men to handle God’s Word, and why it's essential to connect with your particular congregation to stir hearts, challenge minds, and call both believers and nonbelievers to repentance.

In this episode of Pastor Pastor, Wes digs into the heart of gospel shepherding as it applies to older saints. This season of life is not about coasting or settling into spiritual autopilot, but about living sacrificially with grit, grace, and purpose. Whether you’re a pastor, church leader, or simply feeling the pull to slow down, you'll come away encouraged that your best years for Christ's kingdom might well be ahead of you.

In this episode of Pastor Pastor, Rob invites Wes to share his experience and insight on small group ministry—why it matters, what helps it flourish, and how it functions as a mini church. Wes lays out the role of the leader, the importance of using the time well, and how small groups can foster real discipleship, care, and connection. This conversation offers practical wisdom and a clear reminder that leading a healthy small group takes preparation, intentionality, and a commitment to shepherd well.

In this fascinating episode, Wes is joined by special guest Nate Pickowicz, pastor, author, and proud New Englander. Nate is known for numerous books, including "Reviving New England" and "Dear Titus: Letters on Church Planting" (with a chapter contributed by Wes). But Nate brings more than ideas to the table—he brings hard-earned insight from the frontlines of New England pastoral ministry. Wes and Nate talk about the cost and the calling of church planting, the convictions that drive them, and why they’re both committed to staying here for life and raising up the next generation of faithful shepherds. It’s a heartfelt, boots-on-the-ground conversation between two men who know the struggle, see the beauty, and believe the work is worth it.

In this episode of Pastor Pastor, Wes explores one of the most critical—and often overlooked—aspects of shepherding: gospel counseling. Wes explains what makes gospel counseling unique, why it’s essential, and how it strengthens both a pastor’s preaching and his relationships within the church. Drawing on over three decades of pastoral wisdom, Wes offers practical insight for every pastor.

Our second episode of listener-submitted questions gets personal as Wes shares stories and insights on pastoring, parenting, what NETS needs, and more. There's something for everyone, from pastors to brand-new believers, grandparents to teenage girls. Tune in for another episode filled with pastoral warmth and wisdom.

In this fast-paced and fun episode of “Pastor Pastor,” Wes answers a wide range of listener-submitted questions—some deep and theological, others lighthearted and personal. Listen as Wes addresses each topic with honesty, humor, and the pastoral wisdom you've come to expect.

In this week's podcast we unpack a phrase that captures the heartbeat of the NETS Network churches: "Calvinism with a smile." Wes explores why Calvinism often gets a bad rap, clarifies misconceptions, and shows how understanding Reformed theology actually leads to joyful mission, evangelistic passion, and churches that are solidly biblical and boldly missional.