Spark Media Conversations
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Spark Media Conversations episodes

  • Gerard White: Standing Up for Faith and Truth

    Join Misty Phillip on the Spark Media Podcast Conversations as she welcomes Gerard White, the dynamic founder of Stand Up Now and host of the "Are You Listening?" podcast. Recorded live at the Believers Summit, this episode is a deep dive into faith, courage, and the power of standing up for truth in today's world.

    Key Takeaways:
    Introduction to Gerard White: Learn about Gerard's inspiring journey from a concerned father looking to make a statement with a t-shirt to founding Stand Up Now, a brand dedicated to bold faith-based messages.

    The Origin of Stand Up Now: Discover how a rejected t-shirt design transformed into a movement that emphasizes standing up for God, country, and truth. Conversation on Faith and Courage: Gerard shares experiences that highlight the spiritual battle of our times and the importance of vocalizing and standing firm in one's beliefs, even when society pushes back.

    Gerard's Podcast Journey: Explore Gerard's motivation for creating the "Are You Listening?" podcast, a show committed to extending the critical dialogues around faith beyond the constraints of social media.

    Empowering Slogans: Gerard discusses some of the powerful messages on his apparel, such as "God Made," "Freedom Over Fear," and "United We Stand Up Now."

    Engaging with Different Views: Misty and Gerard emphasize the need for open dialogue, understanding, and bridging differences through meaningful conversations around belief and truth.

    Where to Find Gerard:
    Visit standupnowapparel.com to explore their empowering merchandise collection.
    Follow @standupnow2022 on various platforms for inspirational content and updates.
    Check out the "Are You Listening?" podcast available on YouTube, Rumble, and X for in-depth discussions and faith stories.

    Call to Action: If you're inspired by this conversation and eager to engage in faith-focused dialogues, subscribe to Spark Media Podcast Conversations. Don't forget to rate and review the episode to help others find uplifting and empowering content that stands up for truth!

    8 min
  • How the Influence Network is Shaping a New Era for Faith and Church Leadership

    Welcome to the Spark Media Podcast Conversations! In today's episode, we are thrilled to bring you an inspiring discussion with Krissy Miles, co-founder of the Nfluence Network. Join host Misty Phillip and guest Krissy Miles as they dive into the impactful projects Krissy and her husband, Lucas Miles, are spearheading.

    From the launch of the American Pastor Project, a movement to unify churches around biblical doctrine, to the transformative ARISE Women's Conferences, Krissy shares their mission to influence the world with faith. Listen in as we explore how these initiatives are uplifting communities and empowering individuals. Get ready for an uplifting conversation about faith, purpose, and the incredible work being done to bring positive change.

    Here are three key takeaways from our discussion:
    Unified Faith and Politics:

    The American Pastor Project emphasizes the importance of understanding biblical perspectives on contemporary issues, ensuring that faith informs political views.

    Partnership with TP Faith: 

    Krissy announces an exciting collaboration with Turning Point Faith, forging a powerful alliance to address church and politics from a biblical perspective.

    Empowerment Through ARISE:

    The ARISE Women's Conferences, founded by Mary Hudson, focus on uplifting women affected by domestic violence and sex trafficking, transforming them through spiritual and personal development.

    Get Connected:

    For those interested in learning more or getting involved, the Nfluence Network offers plenty of opportunities to connect and engage with their impactful initiatives.

    For more details on these inspiring projects, visit nfluencenetwork.com or reach out at Krissy Miles

    Thank you for being a valued member of our community and for tuning into conversations that inspire change and growth. We hope this episode equips you with the insights and motivation you need this week.

    With gratitude, The Spark Media Team

    P.S. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform – your feedback means the world to us!

    6 min
  • Uniting the Church: Lucas Miles on Faith Against Tyranny

    Welcome to another enlightening episode of Spark Media Podcast Conversations, where faith meets action. In this episode, our host Misty Phillip sits down with Lucas Miles at the Turning Point Faith event to delve into his pivotal projects that are shaping the future of Christianity in America. As a pastor, author, and now the director of TP USA Faith, Lucas shares his passion for uniting believers around primary Christian doctrines to stand against cultural and ideological challenges.

    Discover how you can get involved in this movement, promote biblical values, and stay empowered in these crucial times. Whether you're a pastor or a passionate believer, this episode is filled with insights and inspiration to help you make a difference. Join us for a conversation about faith, unity, and the path forward for the church. Let's spark meaningful change together!

    Lucas Miles is a fervent advocate for unity within the Christian community, particularly during these pivotal times for both the church and the nation. He emphasizes the critical choice between liberty and tyranny and is dedicated to ensuring that this dichotomy remains a focal point in the minds of believers. Lucas is passionate about uniting Christians in a way that preserves the integrity of the gospel, avoiding past approaches that have diluted its message and allowed progressive interpretations to take root.

    Key Highlights:

    • Lucas discussed the successful growth of The American Pastor Project, which over 550 pastors have signed on to support. This project stands firmly for biblical Christianity and seeks to eradicate wokeism in America.

    • A major announcement in the podcast was Lucas's new position as the director of TP USA Faith. During the first-ever Believers Summit, he shared his vision of uniting Christians to stand against tyranny and godlessness, emphasizing the importance of faith in action.

    • Lucas's dedication to uniting believers around primary doctrines of Christianity is vital for moving forward as a cohesive church and bringing faith into societal issues such as marriage, sexuality, and more.

      What’s Next?

      Lucas’s vision includes engaging with church leaders nationwide to unite on critical issues, providing resources and support through TP USA Faith, and promoting faith-based discussions on societal matters. The upcoming AM Fest in Phoenix promises to be a highlight of the year and an excellent opportunity for involvement and growth in faith leadership.

      How Can You Get Involved?

      Join this movement by visiting tpusafaith.com to learn more about ongoing projects and events. Whether you're a pastor or faith-driven individual, there's an opportunity for everyone to engage and contribute to making a meaningful impact.

      Let’s continue to champion these discussions and actions within our communities. Thank you for being a valued member of the Spark Media community and for your ongoing support in promoting impactful podcast content.

      Stay blessed and inspired,

      The Spark Media Podcast Team

      Catch up with this empowering episode and many more on Spark Media or your favorite podcast platform!

      8 min
    • Melissa Batt on Breaking Free from Burnout and Realigning Priorities

      Welcome to another episode of the Spark Media Podcast Conversations! I'm your host, Misty, and we have an inspiring and thoughtful conversation lined up for you today. We’re live from the Esther Press Conference, and joining me is the remarkable Melissa Batt, the voice behind the podcast "Priorities on Purpose."

      Melissa's journey is a powerful testament to the importance of prioritizing what truly matters in life. From a fast-paced career in direct sales to a spiritual awakening that led her to realign her life’s focus, Melissa shares her personal story of overcoming burnout and rediscovering her priorities. We'll hear about the moment that made her pause and the profound changes she implemented in her life. She also discusses practical tips on balancing work and family and offers invaluable advice for aspiring podcasters on starting their own journey.

      Melissa shared her transformative journey from being overworked in direct sales to living with purpose and intention. Her story is a powerful reminder that sometimes we need to slow down to truly notice and prioritize what matters most.

      Here are my top 3 takeaways from our conversation:

      Embrace the Power of Pause

      Melissa's turning point came when she took a step back from her fast-paced career. This pause allowed her to put her main priorities—faith, family, and genuine engagement—back in order.

      Start and Do It Afraid

      For anyone looking to start a podcast or any new venture, Melissa emphasizes the importance of just starting. You don't have to feel ready; you just need courage.

      Be Present

      One of Melissa’s current lessons is to focus on being present in the moment. Particularly in our digital age, this means being mindful of how much time we spend on our phones versus engaging with those around us.

      Comprehensive Sequence of Topics Covered

      Introduction

      • Welcome to Spark Media Conversations

      • Introduction of Melissa Batt

      • Shoutout to mutual friend Tori Shaira and her podcast, Unlikely Housewives

        Melissa’s Podcast: Priorities on Purpose
        • Reason for starting the podcast

          • God's influence

          • Personal experiences in direct sales and burnout

          • Chasing title, status, and overworking

          • Call to realign priorities

            Melissa’s Personal Journey
            • God's call to slow down and pay attention

            • Practical impact on Melissa's life

              • Moving and its abrupt nature

              • Family focus, particularly children’s mental health

              • Balancing work and personal life

              • Realization of misplaced priorities

                • Being overly attached to work and social media

                • Learning to be present with family

                  Importance of Being Present
                  • Stories of social media impact

                    • Misty's personal experience with her husband’s concerns about phone use

                    • Melissa's son’s request for no phone use during family time

                    • Importance of living in the moment and not being consumed by goals

                    • Biblical references to living for today

                      Podcasting Tips from Melissa
                      • Key advice for new podcasters

                        • Importance of starting despite fear

                        • Avoiding over-analysis and procrastination

                        • Using simple tools like phone recording to begin

                        • Batching content for efficiency

                        • Overcoming fear of one’s own voice

                          • Personal anecdotes including Tori’s experience

                            Support and Community
                            • Misty's role in the Spark Collective

                              • Accountability and community support in podcasting

                              • Celebrating each other's successes and pushing through analysis paralysis

                                Technical Advice
                                • Importance of good editing

                                  • Shoutout to podcast editors who improve audio quality

                                    Ways to connect with Melissa Batt
                                      • Instagram handle: MelissaBattOfficial

                                      • Website: MelissaBatt.com

                                        Join us as we dive deep into Melissa's transformative experience, the importance of presence and intentionality, and how she’s helping other women navigate similar paths. Get ready for a conversation full of wisdom, encouragement, and actionable insights. Stay tuned!

                                        12 min
                                      • Ester Press Insights: Krissy Nordoff & Sally Dowell

                                        Welcome to another edition of Spark Media Podcast Conversations. In today's episode, we have some incredible interviews from the Esther Press Conference. Misty Phillip sits down with Krissy Nordhoff  to talk about her work with Brave Worship, sharing insights about her journey as a songwriter and mentor. Then, she speaks with Sally Dowell from Operation Christmas Child, delving into the impactful work of the organization and her role in spreading hope and joy. Get ready for inspiring conversations and valuable insights in this special edition of Spark Media Conversations.

                                        Here are three key takeaways from our conversations from Esther Press Conference.

                                        Community and Encouragement 

                                        Brave Worship, led by Krissy Nordhoff, provides a supportive community for female worship songwriters, offering a space for regular meetings, prayer, and online gatherings. Their focus on encouragement and worship creates a nurturing environment for songwriters to grow and flourish.

                                         

                                        Global Impact

                                        Sally Dowell, the manager of corporate and ministry partnerships at Operation Christmas Child, shared their incredible impact. With over 220 million children receiving shoebox gifts since 1993, their work extends far beyond physical gifts, using them as a platform to share the gospel in over 120 different countries.

                                         

                                        Opportunities for Involvement

                                        Operation Christmas Child provides various opportunities for individuals and organizations to get involved, ranging from packing shoebox gifts to corporate and ministry partnerships. Their focus on sharing stories and impacting lives is an inspiration for anyone looking to make a tangible difference in the world.

                                        It was a privilege to learn from these passionate individuals and witness the impact they are making on a global scale. Looking forward to more insightful conversations at the Esther Press Conference! 

                                        Tune in to the episode to hear inspiring stories, powerful missions, and the importance of community in these endeavors. You'll also hear about the inaugural Esther Press Conference and the exciting opportunities it presents for those passionate about podcasting, songwriting, and serving others.

                                        Whether you're a podcaster, writer, or simply seeking inspiration, this episode is packed with insights and encouragement for such a time as this.

                                        Listen to the episode on Spark Media Podcast Conversations and be inspired by Krissy Nordhoff and Sally Dowell's uplifting conversations.

                                        8 min
                                      • Discovering Identity Beyond Accomplishments with Lori Gasca

                                        Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Spark Media Podcast Conversations! Today, Misty Phillip sits down with Lori Gasca, a dynamic entrepreneur and passionate connector of women based in Houston.

                                        Join us as we dive into Lori's incredible journey from running a women-focused co-working space to navigating life's big transitions. Lori opens up about the challenges of redefining identity beyond professional roles and shares how she’s been guided by faith through it all. With a heart for supporting and gathering women, Lori discusses her various initiatives, including her annual Growth Summit, faith-based "Gather Ups," and an upcoming book project. Plus, hear about her transformative experience at the Ester Press Conference and the powerful insights she gained. Get ready for a conversation filled with wisdom, encouragement, and faith as we explore what it means to truly live out your calling.

                                        Lori Gasca is a devoted wife and mother of four who recently embarked on a journey of self-discovery after selling her women-focused workspace business in September 2023. As she reflects on her identity beyond her professional achievements, Lori has been seeking deeper understanding through her faith. Her recent transition has led her to explore who she is at her core, separate from her career, allowing her to grow both personally and spiritually.

                                        "As long as your identity is tied to what someone thinks of you... you're always gonna be limited."- Lori Gasca

                                         

                                        Redefining Identity and Success

                                        Lori's reflections on identity and success remind us that our true worth isn't tied to our achievements or how others perceive us. Our real identity lies in being children of God, and success is aligning our lives with His purpose.

                                        Power of Sharing Stories

                                        Lori emphasized the importance of sharing our stories to live an abundantly free life. By opening up about our experiences, we can release the hold of past pains and help others find hope and healing.

                                        Stepping Forward with Clarity

                                        With seasons of life come different callings. Lori's prayer for clarity and taking action despite obstacles is a powerful reminder for all of us to seek God's guidance and move forward with confidence in His plan.

                                        In this episode, Lori vulnerably shares:

                                        • Her journey of self-discovery:

                                          After selling her business in September 2023, Lori embarked on a spiritual journey, exploring her identity beyond her entrepreneurial achievements.

                                        • The significance of story-sharing:

                                          Lori emphasizes that sharing our stories allows us to live abundantly free and cultivate meaningful connections. She firmly believes in the healing power of testimonies.

                                        • Redefining success:

                                          Transitioning from a money-focused mindset to one that treasures impactful connections and spiritual fulfillment.

                                          Listen to the full episode to dive deeper into Lori's journey and be inspired to live authentically and purposefully. Connect with Lori Gasca on social media or through her website at lorigasca.info for more inspiration and resources.

                                          10 min
                                        • Should Christians Support Israel? with Dr Jeff Myers

                                          Welcome to another episode of the Spark Media Podcast Conversations, where we bring you engaging dialogues that spark curiosity and insight. In this episode, Misty Phillip sits down with Dr. Jeff Myers, President of Summit Ministries, at the Believer's Summit, Turning Point Faith event.

                                          Dr. Jeff recently authored a book titled "Should Christians Support Israel: Seeking a Biblical Worldview in an Impossible Situation," addressing the complex perspectives emerging among Gen Z regarding Israel and the Middle East conflict.

                                          Should Christians Support Israel? is more than a title; it’s a serious question that can only be answered through the lens of history, the Bible, and a worldview framework.

                                          Through firsthand accounts and rigorous analysis, this book offers a unique perspective on the current Israel-Palestine conflict. Whether you’re seeking answers for yourself or looking to discuss the issue with others, this book provides essential insights.

                                          Together, they dive into the book's key insights, outlining the theological and geopolitical dynamics at play and the critical role of a biblical worldview in shaping the perspective of young people.

                                          Dr. Jeff also shares the impactful work Summit Ministries is doing to equip and empower young leaders with a strong biblical foundation. It's a conversation that delves deep into understanding and navigating the current issues surrounding Israel and offers valuable insights for individuals seeking clarity in a complex world.

                                          Key Takeaways:

                                          1. Understanding the Geopolitical Nature of the Israel-Palestine Conflict

                                          It's not just about land but about competing world views and the battle of good versus evil. The radicalized Islamist theology behind groups like Hamas is often overlooked in media portrayals.

                                          2. Israel's Right to Exist

                                          Israel's ties to ancient Israel, its belief system, and the legitimacy of its existence are rooted in history. Dr. Jeff Myers emphasizes the importance of recognizing and supporting Israel's right to exist and defend itself.

                                          3. Equipping the Next Generation

                                          Summit Ministries offers summer experiences and curriculum courses to train young adults in a strong biblical worldview. Their programs have proven to be highly effective, with 85% of participants staying strong in a biblical worldview even 10 years out.

                                          Learn more about Summit Ministries and Dr. Jeff Myers' book "Should Christians Support Israel" at summit.org/israel. Let's engage in meaningful conversations and equip the next generation with a solid biblical understanding.

                                          10 min
                                        • Rachael Gilbert on Identity, Counseling, and Podcasting

                                          Welcome to the Spark Media Podcast Conversations with Misty Phillip! In this episode, Misty sits down with her friend and fellow podcaster, Rachael Gilbert. Rachael is a counselor, author, and host of the "Real Talk with Rachel" podcast. Together, they dive into topics like identity, body image, anxiety, and the impact of social media on mental health.

                                          Rachael shares practical tips for managing anxiety and the importance of tuning into our inner selves. They also discuss the power of podcasting as a tool for spreading hope and the Gospel to people around the world.

                                          Join us as we uncover the inspiring journey of Rachael Gilbert and gain valuable insights into navigating the challenges of the digital age.

                                          Misty Phillip is a well-known figure in the Spark Media community and is excited to introduce her friend, Rachel Gilbert, at the Esther Press Conference. Misty and Rachel have been friends for a while and first crossed paths at the DECLARE conference in 2017. Misty recalls how Rachel was part of a radio collaboration with KHCB and has been a visible presence in the community.

                                          Despite their initial meeting being in the early stages of Misty's writing career, they have remained friends and continued to support each other's endeavors.

                                          Introduction and Friendship - Misty introduces Rachael Gilbert as her friend - They met at the DECLARE conference in 2017 - Rachael encouraged Misty to go live with her content

                                          Speaking at the Esther Press Conference - Rachael shares about the panel discussion on identity and surrender - She talks about her session, including sharing her story and teaching techniques like butterfly hugs and grounding methods

                                          Counseling and Mental Health - Rachael discusses her counseling practice and the prevalence of anxiety and trauma work - The conversation shifts to her book "Image Restored," which addresses body image and trauma

                                          Podcasting - Misty and Rachael discuss their podcasting experiences - They talk about their mutual inspiration in the podcasting journey - Challenges in podcasting, including interview coordination and technology

                                          Impact of Podcasting and Mental Health - The positive impact of podcasting and reaching international audiences - Discussion on anxiety and its correlation with social media and technology - Strategies for dealing with anxiety and the unhealthy impact of social media and technology on mental health 

                                           

                                          14 min
                                        • Conversation about Prayer and Parenthood with Erica Renaud

                                          Welcome to a compelling episode of Spark Media Podcast Conversations! In this episode, our host Misty sits down with the talented author Erica Renaud, sharing insights from her book "Pray With Me: Help Your Children Engage in Authentic and Powerful Prayer."

                                          In this episode, Erica discusses the catalyst behind her book and the importance of instilling a love for prayer in children. She also shares her experience at the Esther Press Conference and her upcoming speaking engagement, highlighting the significance of empowering and pouring into the next generation. Erica's insights into family, wisdom, and leadership are truly thought-provoking and uplifting.

                                          Recorded live at the Ester Press Conference, Misty and Erica dive into the significance of women's empowerment, the value of prayer in parenting, and the impact of guidance and leadership in our lives. You'll hear Erica's inspiring journey as a mother of five and discover how she manages to integrate prayer and family dynamics. She also shares wisdom for those preparing for podcast interviews.

                                          🔑 Key Takeaways from the Conversation:

                                          1. Rising Up to Empower Others

                                          Erica's discussion on how Mordecai's wisdom impacted her and the importance of pouring into the next generation resonated deeply. It serves as a reminder to seek out and treasure the wisdom shared with us and to in turn, empower and guide those following in our footsteps.

                                          2. Preparing for Interviews

                                          Erica's valuable insights as a podcast guest shed light on the importance of understanding the host's audience and brand. It's a reminder that preparation and research on the host's background and audience go a long way in delivering impactful interviews.

                                          3. Authenticity in Prayer

                                          Erica's candid approach to prayer, the challenges of juggling multiple responsibilities, and her desire for her children to know and love Jesus' voice serves as a powerful reminder that prayer doesn't have to be perfect and eloquent but can be an authentic expression of our hearts.

                                          Connect with Erica Renaud on Instagram 

                                          Tune in to uncover the heartwarming and powerful conversation as Erica shares how her experiences have motivated her to equip parents with essential tools for incorporating prayer into their homes. So, sit back, relax, and get ready for an episode filled with wisdom, authenticity, and encouragement!

                                          13 min
                                        • A Texan Takeover: Conversations with Cynthia Yanof on Life, Podcasting, and Faith Journey

                                          Welcome to another episode of Spark Media Conversations! In this episode, we have the pleasure of hosting a delightful conversation between two Texas gals, Cynthia Yanof and Misty Phillip. Cynthia, a renowned author and podcast host, joins Misty in Tennessee for an engaging discussion. They dive into Cynthia's book, "Life is Messy. God is Good," her podcast "Mesmerize," and the impact of injecting humor into storytelling.

                                          Cynthia shares her insights on the podcasting journey, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the right audience rather than the numbers. She also delves into her speaking engagement at the Ester Press conference, highlighting her passion for foster care and doing the hard things. As the conversation unfolds, humor and authenticity create a warm and relatable atmosphere, reflecting the essence of Cynthia's work.

                                          Key Takeaways
                                          Success Beyond Numbers:

                                          Whether it's 250,000 downloads or 2,000, Cynthia emphasizes the importance of focusing on impacting the right people rather than the number of listeners. Success in podcasting isn't just about commercial figures, but about reaching and positively influencing the lives of the audience.

                                          Infusing Humor & Faith:

                                          Cynthia's approach of injecting humor into her content to break down defenses and open the door for truth is a powerful strategy. Infusing humor and practicality while staying true to biblical truth creates an engaging and impactful podcast experience.

                                          Embracing Hard Things:

                                          Sharing her journey in foster care and diving into the concept of "for such a time as this" from Esther 4:14, Cynthia highlights the significance of embracing the challenging aspects of life. Despite the messiness and hurdles, it's about stepping forward even when it doesn't seem to make sense.

                                          Cynthia Yanof

                                          "In the mess of life, you can be mesmerized by a lot of things, by culture. You can be mesmerized by the hard things you face, by your family, marriage, a lot. But why not be mesmerized by the Lord?" - Cynthia Yanof

                                          Cynthia Yanof is an author who writes from a place of honesty and vulnerability about finding God in the midst of life's challenges. Despite not always dreaming of being an author, she found her passion for writing as a way to share the real and raw moments of her faith journey. Through her books, Cynthia offers a blend of humor and insight, inviting readers to laugh and find hope in the midst of life's difficulties. Her writing resonates with those seeking a genuine and relatable perspective on faith and life. 

                                          Life is Messy, God is Good brings realness, humor, and biblical truth into life's challenges. Cynthia Yanof knows how sloppy, slippery, and downright hard life can be. But as she reminds us through her laugh-out-loud stories and heartfelt companionship, God’s not surprised when we drop the ball, lose our cool, or struggle to put our Spanx on in the morning. He can use our ridiculous messes and even the really difficult I-didn’t-sign-up-for-this losses to shape us.
                                           
                                          In Life Is Messy, God Is Good, Cynthia invites us to reframe our perspective on the challenges we face so we can see God at work—and laugh more along the way. Join her in discovering how:
                                           

                                          • We can be faithful to God’s purposes right where we are—baseball carpool, dog groomer, and even chaperoning the dreaded zoo field trip.
                                          • We come to realize one of life’s greatest blessings is a handful of crazy, godly friends (who aren’t afraid to tell you to retire your outfit).
                                          • When we let go of who the world says we should be, we are free to become who God created us to be.
                                          • Thanks so much for spending time with us today. If you enjoyed this episode please like, subscribe and share with a friend. 

                                             

                                            11 min

                                          About Spark Media Conversations

                                          From the publisher's feed

                                          Inspiring conversations with the Spark Media podcast community recorded live at the 2022 Spark Media podcast conference and award ceremony at the Gaylord Opryland in Nashville, TN.