In this powerful episode of the HER Podcast, host Kristin Sampson sits down with Matt and Leah Heupel to explore their journey in marriage and ministry. From their first date at KFC to raising faithful children and serving the Woodlawn Church of Christ, this conversation offers honest insight, real-life struggles, and the blessings that come with commitment to each other and the Lord.

Leah opens up about never wanting to marry a minister, stepping out of her comfort zone to teach women’s classes, and the challenges of parenting while working full-time. Matt shares his calling into ministry, how he balances family and leadership, and why authenticity matters more than appearances.

✅ Whether you're in ministry, marriage, or just need encouragement—this episode will inspire you to stay faithful, stay real, and stay together.

🎧 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more real conversations with ministers and their families.

📌 Chapters:

00:00 – Intro to the HER Podcast

00:43 – Meet Matt & Leah Heupel

01:13 – How They Met & Their KFC Connection

02:35 – The Rook Game Sundays & First Kiss Story

03:53 – Matt’s Ministry at Woodlawn (20 Years!)

05:17 – Leah’s Career Journey & Insurance Role

06:15 – Leah’s Reluctance to Marry a Minister

07:27 – Teaching a Ladies’ Class for the First Time

08:36 – Leah’s Church Background & Bible Knowledge

10:33 – Matt’s Unexpected Call into Ministry

11:50 – Leah’s View on Being a Minister’s Wife

12:58 – The Cost of Ministry on Their Dream Life

14:13 – Navigating Hard Years in Preaching Life

15:45 – Hobbies They Share (Naps & TV Time!)

17:03 – Balancing Family, Friends, and Ministry

18:07 – Parenting Reflections & Lessons Learned

19:48 – Leah’s Sacrifices & Support

21:00 – Praising Their Kids’ Character

22:14 – Favorite Church Activities & Fellowship

23:31 – The Importance of Downtime Together

24:42 – Marriage as a Partnership in Every Way

27:06 – Special Trip to Tahoe & Hawaii Memories

28:57 – 20-Year Anniversary Celebration at Church

30:19 – Realness in Ministry: Breaking the Pedestal

31:38 – Learning from Older Church Members

33:50 – Building Lasting Bonds Through Hospitality

35:10 – Why Transparency Strengthens the Church

36:33 – Different Parenting Styles: Grace & Truth

38:33 – Their Approach to Raising Older Kids

39:46 – Family Legacy: A Surprise Pregnancy Story

41:01 – A Family Connection Through Car Sales

42:16 – What They Learned from Extended Family

43:39 – Final Advice: Pray Together & Slow Down

45:00 – Closing Words: Support, Forgiveness & Grace

🔑 Keywords:

Matt Heupel, Leah Heupel, Woodlawn Church of Christ, Christian marriage, minister's wife, HER Podcast, Kristin Sampson, marriage and ministry, real ministry life, Church of Christ couple, family and faith, parenting in ministry, preacher family, Christian parenting, women in the church, Church fellowship, faith journey

📣 Hashtags:

#HERPodcast #MattHeupel #LeahHeupel #ChristianMarriage #ChurchOfChrist #MinistryLife #FaithAndFamily #MinistersWife #MarriageGoals #WoodlawnChurch #ParentingInFaith #RealTalkMinistry #FaithOverFear