In case you missed it, Pastor Sean wants you to re-meet the Chaplain for the Super Bowl Champion Philadelphia Eagles, Pastor Ted Winsley, and his wife, Dawn. Hear about their roles, challenges, and how they minister to the players' families and even the coaches.

Pastor Winsley is also the author of "A View from the End Zone - Four Tests You Must Pass To Win in Life"

We present our favorite and most listened-to conversations of 2025...

Pastors Sean and Lauri Azzaro of River City Community Church share the importance of taking time off, avoiding burnout in ministry, and maintaining a healthy family and marriage. They share personal stories, insights on dealing with hurt and resentment, and advice for new pastoral couples. Discover more about their ministry, 'Real Life,' and how they navigate life's challenges together.

00:00 Introduction: The Power of a Good Story

00:14 Invitation to Experience 'The Jesus Story'

00:39 Service Information and Church Details

01:00 Announcement: Changes in Broadcasting

01:56 Special Guest: Lori Zaro

02:30 A Conversation with Lori Zaro

03:19 The Importance of Rest and Recharging

04:18 The Journey of Real Life Ministries

09:48 Balancing Ministry and Family Life

12:29 Dealing with Burnout and Hurt in Ministry

22:23 The Joy of Ministry and Marriage

24:07 Conclusion and Invitation to Church

Discover 'The Jesus Story' with Pastor Sean and Lori Zaro - A Journey of Faith and Transformation

Join Pastor Sean Zaro and his wife Lori of River City Community Church as they invite you to embark on 'The Jesus Story,' a transformative journey based on the Gospel of John. This special episode also features heartfelt conversations about the challenges and joys of ministry, maintaining a healthy work-life balance, and the importance of taking time for rest and rejuvenation. Tune in to hear their personal stories, marriage insights, and wisdom for both seasoned and new ministry leaders. Don't miss the announcement about their new plans for delivering messages and the exciting future of Reaching for Real Life.

00:00 Introduction: The Power of a Good Story

00:14 Invitation to Experience 'The Jesus Story'

00:39 Service Information and Church Details

01:00 Announcement: Changes in Broadcasting

01:56 Special Guest: Lori Zaro

02:30 A Conversation with Lori Zaro

03:19 The Importance of Rest and Recharging

04:18 The Journey of Real Life Ministries

09:48 Balancing Ministry and Family Life

12:29 Dealing with Burnout and Hurt in Ministry

22:23 The Joy of Ministry and Marriage

24:07 Conclusion and Invitation to Church

Pastor Sean reflects on recent tragedies, including a tragic murder case and various shooting incidents, contrasting with the joyous Christmas season. Sean offers a compassionate perspective on the events, urging listeners to be peacemakers and to find solace in the true meaning of Christmas—the birth of Jesus Christ.

00:00 Introduction and Christmas Greetings

00:35 Family and Holiday Plans

00:49 School Christmas Program Highlights

01:54 Sports Talk: Bears vs. Packers

03:20 Tragic News and Political Commentary

09:16 Acts of Heroism Amidst Tragedy

12:17 Being Peacemakers in Troubling Times

18:17 Christmas Message and Church Events

22:22 Closing Prayer and Final Thoughts

After Sean and Baron reflect on Christmas parties, gift exchanges, and savoring festive moments that go by way to fast, the conversation takes a deeper turn as they address the challenges faced by Christian universities like Biola, dealing with the balancing act between biblical beliefs and societal pressures. They also touch on the influence of different podcasts, the role of parents in guiding their kids' college choices, and maintaining faith in a diverse environment. Sean shares insights on how the church and families can navigate these complexities with grace and conviction.

00:00 Introduction and Christmas Greetings

00:17 Christmas Celebrations and Staff Party

02:35 Christmas Eve at River City

03:25 Reflecting on the Year and Favorite Podcasts

05:57 Controversy at Biola University

08:16 Challenges Facing Christian Universities

18:00 Parental Influence on College Choices

19:58 Holiday Family Dynamics

20:56 Conclusion and Year-End Reflections

25:02 Invitation to the Jesus Story

Do Miracles Still Happen In The 21st Century?

Sean Azzaro, Pastor of River City Community Church, speaks to the power of prayer, miracles, and personal stories of divine intervention, touching on the impact of strong leadership in various aspects of life - including Sean's Chicago Bears.

00:00 Introduction and Holiday Excitement

00:38 Christmas Traditions at River City Community Church

01:31 Fun Activities for Kids and Families

02:10 Service Times and Special Events

02:57 Sports Talk: Bears and Cowboys

05:52 The Power of Miracles

07:02 Defining Miracles in the Modern World

11:01 Personal Stories and Testimonies

13:03 The Power of Asking and God's Miraculous Interventions

14:56 Personal Testimonies of Miracles

15:57 A Brother's Miraculous Recovery

18:21 The Power of Prayer and Divine Provision

21:34 Skepticism and the Authenticity of Miracles

23:52 The Miracle of Christ's Birth and Christmas Reflections

25:11 Invitation to River City Services

In this episode, Sean discusses the mission and community at River City, shares personal anecdotes about his pastoral journey, and highlights the importance of delegation and mentorship in ministry. Discover the family-like atmosphere of the church, the joyful moments of baptisms, and the significance of taking time off for rest and renewal.

Visit us at reallife.org.

00:00 Introduction to the Jesus Story

00:40 Service Information and Invitation

01:18 Consistency and Health

03:03 Reflecting on Ministry and Career Choices

05:37 Advice to a Younger Self

08:58 Leadership and Growth

12:08 Worship and Music

13:26 Popular Songs at River City Community Church

14:05 Addressing Pastoral Burnout

15:42 Delegating Responsibilities in Ministry

18:52 The Joy of Baptism

20:26 Pastoral Perks and Appreciation

21:20 Experiencing Real Life in Ministry

22:45 Christmas Traditions and Family

24:09 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts

In this episode of 'Reaching for Real Life,' Pastor Sean Azzaro of River City Community Church and co-host Baron Wiley discuss the significance of Thanksgiving, the deep theology and history embedded in classic hymns, and the importance of gratitude. They delve into discerning true biblical teachings from false doctrines, utilizing reliable resources, and the role of AI in sermon preparation. The episode also highlights the value of community and spiritual guidance in nurturing one's faith.

00:00 Introduction and Opening Remarks

00:33 Discussing the Popularity of Hymns

00:59 Thanksgiving Reflections and Traditions

03:40 Thanksgiving Football Lineup

06:14 Spotting False Doctrine Online

12:45 Understanding God's Love and Justice

13:38 The Role of AI in Sermon Preparation

15:43 Evaluating the Fruit of Biblical Teaching

18:40 Navigating Doctrinal Differences

20:25 Discerning Truth in Christian Community

23:28 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Exploring the Creeds: Foundations of Faith with Pastor Sean Azzaro

Today's conversation touches on the historical significance and modern relevance of Christian creeds, the church's outreach initiatives amid the impacts of government shutdowns, and the always insightful football smack. Discover more about discipleship, community, and sustaining faith in today’s world as Pastor Sean emphasizes the importance of scripture, community service, and understanding core Christian doctrines.

00:00 Introduction to the Jesus Story

00:40 River City Community Church and Community Outreach

04:22 Football and Leadership Lessons

07:28 The Importance of Creeds in Christianity

12:13 Modern Christianity and Cultural Challenges

23:51 Invitation to River City Community Church

The landscape and soundscape for corporate worship has changed over the decades...with challenges for those who feel left behind. Pastor Sean explores the challenges and opportunities that arise as churches shift from traditional choirs to contemporary worship styles. Sean shares insightful observations from Kelsey McGinnis, a reporter for Christianity Today, about aging out of music ministry and the broader implications for church musicians.

Follow Kelsey McGinnis on Instagram @kelseymmcginnis

Follow Sean Azzaro @sean_azzaro

00:00 Introduction to the Jesus Story

01:06 Welcome to Reaching for Real Life

01:25 Chicago Bears: A Lesson in Leadership

05:29 Debating Music Ministry in Modern Churches

12:44 Classical vs Contemporary Vocal Training

13:14 Challenges of Transitioning to Contemporary Worship

14:41 The Purpose of Music in Church

15:54 The Role of the Church in Music Education

17:48 Adapting to Musical Changes in Church

20:26 Balancing Tradition and Contemporary Worship

25:03 Upcoming Church Events and Services

Is there a "Revival"/"A Great Awakening" happening now? Charlie Kirk and Influencers like Russell Brand and now Joe Rogan have pushed faith to the front of the conversation.

Pastor Sean Azzaro says slow down...just becuase you're a celebrity and you get saved only means you're a new believer. Encourage them in their journey, pray for them, let's not teach on Sunday just yet.

Discover insights on community, discipleship, and living a faith-filled life.

00:00 Introduction to the Greatest Story Ever

00:41 Invitation to River City Community Church

01:08 A Day in the Life of Pastor Sean

01:54 Teaching the Kids: Jesus Calms the Storm

03:57 The Importance of Biblical Teaching for Children

04:50 Joe Rogan's Spiritual Journey

08:00 The Cultural Caricature of Jesus

12:47 The Real Jesus: Death and Resurrection

16:06 Encouraging New Believers

18:23 The Role of Church Community

24:42 Halloween Outreach and Final Thoughts