In part 2 of our mini series, Neal Karsten join us again to discuss 8 different cracks we see in the foundation of the institution. The conversation explores the challenges faced by modern churches regarding branding, competition, and the implications of centralization versus decentralization. They emphasize the importance of aligning church practices with biblical foundations rather than merely following established customs. They explore the complexities of church customs, the role of money in church dynamics, and the importance of flexibility in church practices. They discuss the potential for being the church without financial dependence and the need for a decentralized approach to money management. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of examining the foundations of church models, identifying key issues such as consumerism, and the importance of personal reflection and repentance in the church community.

This is episode 1 of a special 3 part podcast series with our guest Neal Karsten. In episode 1,  Britton and Neal navigate the complexities of church community, discipleship, and the impact of COVID-19 on traditional church models. They reflect on their experiences of gathering in homes, the challenges of empowering others, and the need for foundational changes within the church system. The discussion also highlights the importance of evaluating practices against biblical standards and recognizing the difference between individuals and the church system they operate within. In this conversation, Neal and Britton explore the complexities of church dynamics, particularly in the wake of COVID-19. They discuss the challenges of separating the church from the institutional system, the impact of consumerism on church attendance and engagement, and the importance of foundational issues in church models. 

In this episode of the Pastor to Pioneer podcast, Britton interviews Guy Caskey, who shares his transformative journey from a troubled youth to a passionate disciple-maker and church planter. Guy discusses his early struggles with identity and substance abuse, his radical encounter with God, and his subsequent call to ministry. He reflects on the challenges of navigating traditional church culture, the importance of discipleship, and the impact of global missions. Throughout the conversation, Guy emphasizes the need for authenticity, relationship-building, and a Christ-centered approach to ministry. In this conversation, Guy Caskey shares insights on maintaining relationships across different church models, the challenges of working within mega church structures, and the importance of spiritual parenting. He emphasizes the need for identity, intimacy, and influence in ministry, and discusses the significance of trusting God for provision while navigating financial security. The dialogue also touches on the importance of casting vision for community and investing in a few to reach many, while cultivating a culture of spiritual parenting and ensuring the sustainability of church multiplication efforts.

In this episode, Britton and Daniel Towner discuss Daniel's journey from a non-church background to becoming a pastor and pioneer in Philadelphia. Daniel shifted from an acting career in New York City, to a pastoral role in ministry, including a role as a director of discipleship, and is now pioneering a simple movement. The conversation highlights the importance of faith, community, and the pursuit of lost souls. He emphasizes the importance of prayer, the challenges of support raising, and the transformative power of being present in the community. Daniel discusses the significance of listening to God's guidance and the need to avoid comparison with others in ministry. He encourages listeners to embrace their unique calling and to be open to the work God is doing in their lives and communities.

In this episode, Mark Goering shares his transformative journey from a traditional pastoral role to embracing a simple church model focused on disciple-making. He reflects on his struggles with faith, identity, and mental health, and how a group of believers helped him find authentic faith. Mark discusses the challenges he faced while trying to implement new methods of church leadership and the eventual decision to step away from traditional structures to pursue a more organic approach to ministry in Queens, New York.

Learn more at https://multiplyingdisciples.us

In this episode of the Pastor to Pioneer podcast, Britton interviews Chris and Sarah Greenwood, who share their journey from traditional pastoral roles to exploring new forms of ministry. They discuss their early life experiences, the challenges of pastoral expectations, and the importance of discipleship. The conversation highlights their realizations about the limitations of traditional church models and their desire to seek out those who are not actively pursuing faith. Chris and Sarah emphasize the need for a more personal and relational approach to ministry, ultimately leading them to consider new directions in their calling. They share their transformative journey from pastoral ministry to the marketplace, discussing the challenges and growth they experienced along the way. They emphasize the importance of seeking people, the dynamics of family life during transitions, and the newfound compassion Chris has developed in his role as a financial planner. The couple reflects on their faith journey, the significance of community, and the lessons learned about dependency on God during difficult times.

In this episode of the Pastor to Pioneer podcast, Joe Schimmels from NOVO shares his transformative journey from a non-religious background to becoming a passionate disciple-maker. He discusses the importance of inner healing, identity in Christ, and the loneliness often felt in pastoral roles. Joe emphasizes the distinction between apostolic and pastoral epistles, advocating for a movement mindset that focuses on multiplying disciples rather than merely growing local churches. He also highlights the significance of authority and power in prayer, drawing parallels to his experiences in various ministry contexts. In this conversation, Joe Schimmels discusses the importance of understanding authority in prayer, the role of expectation, and the need for training in spiritual authority. He shares real-life stories of healing and emphasizes the significance of engaging with unbelievers and transitioning conversations to spiritual discussions. The conversation highlights the necessity of intimacy with the Father and encourages listeners to embrace their spiritual aches for more in their lives and communities.

Novo Website: https://novo.org/

In this episode of the Pastor to Pioneer Podcast, Britton interviews Brent Hoffman, a former worship pastor and church planter. Brent shares his journey from being a worship leader to leading multi-site churches, discussing the challenges of church growth, leadership sustainability, and the shift towards discipleship and simplicity in ministry. In this conversation, Brent Hofen shares his transformative journey from traditional church leadership to a model of simple obedience and disciple-making. He discusses the importance of co-laboring with other believers, the shift to "tent-making" for income, and the profound rest he has found in following Jesus' teachings. Brent emphasizes the significance of spiritual conversations, the sacredness of time, and the impact of these changes on his family, highlighting the joy of seeing his children engage in the mission of spreading the gospel.

Brent Hofen Contact: [email protected]

In this episode of the Pastor to Pioneer Podcast, host Britton interviews Todd Linder from Launch Point, which works with people transitioning from ministry to the marketplace. Todd discusses his background, the challenges faced by pastors transitioning out of ministry, and the importance of aligning personal values with organizational culture. Todd emphasizes the significance of relationships over numbers and the need for emotional health in navigating these transitions. He discusses the process of translating church experience into marketable skills, the significance of understanding one's 'why' in job searching and the necessity of building a supportive network for successful career transitions.

Visit the Launch Point website and take the quiz: 

http://go.ministrytomarketplace.co/ptp

In this episode of the Pastor to Pioneer podcast, host Britton talks with Mike Wiggin, who shares his journey through pastoral ministry, church planting, and the evolution of his approach to disciple making. Mike discusses the challenges he faced in his early ministry, the dynamics of raising a family with young marriages, and the importance of simplicity in ministry. He emphasizes the need for a shift from traditional church models to a focus on making disciple makers, ultimately leading to the establishment of X2 networks and a new vision for ministry. In this conversation, Mike Wiggin discusses the evolution of church models, focusing on the emergence of micro churches and the challenges faced by traditional church structures. He emphasizes the importance of community, the need for a shift in paradigms, and the role of shepherds in sustaining movements. Mike also shares insights on church planting trends and offers advice for those looking to pioneer disciple-making movements, highlighting the necessity of listening to the Holy Spirit and innovating beyond traditional frameworks.