The District Life Podcast

In this episode of the District Life Podcast, Eli Bayless sits down with Josh Gores from Riverlawn Christian Church to unpack the third mark in our 8 Marks of Spiritual Formation — Rooted in Love. Together they explore why love is more than just a feeling, how it serves as the defining characteristic of maturity in Christ, and what it looks like to live out a faith that is grounded in the love of God and extended to others. Through stories, scripture, and practical insights, Eli and Josh challenge us to consider how being rooted in love can reshape our relationships, our community, and our witness in Delano and beyond.

In this episode of the District Life Podcast, Travis sits down with Eli to talk about spiritual life habits—what they are, why they matter, and how they shape who we’re becoming. Together they share practical examples of habits like Scripture before screen, prayer rhythms, Sabbath rest, and fasting, while unpacking how these practices help us resist cultural drift and live more fully in the way of Jesus.

Spiritual formation isn’t optional—every one of us is being formed every day. The real question is: Are we being formed by the patterns of the world, or counter-formed into the image of Christ?

In this episode of the District Life Podcast, Travis sits down with Kavin Kramer to talk about what it really means to build a Biblical foundation for life and faith. Together they explore how we got the Bible, why it can be trusted, and the major themes that run through its pages. Kavin also shares practical tips on how to read, understand, and apply Scripture in everyday life. Whether you’re new to the Bible or have been reading it for years, this conversation will help you see God’s Word as the anchor that grounds us and the guide that leads us into maturity in Christ.

In this bonus episode of the District Life Podcast, Travis sits down with Lissa, Missy, and Vanessa from Agape Care Cradle—a ministry walking alongside women through miscarriage and stillbirth. Together they share personal stories, profound spiritual insights, and how God’s presence brings strength and hope even in life’s darkest valleys.

For info & to connect:

https://www.agapecarecradle.org

Register for "Shoot Some Clay, Do Some Good" here:

https://www.agapecarecradle.org/event/shoot-some-clay-do-some-good/

Welcome to District Life! This week Eli, Travis, and Brady introduce the 8 Marks of Spiritual Formation—a framework for growing as followers of Jesus at the District Church. Together they unpack the biblical idea of teleios (maturity, completeness) from Ephesians 4, exploring why spiritual maturity changes how we face life’s challenges and how we live out our faith in Delano and beyond.

In this episode, Travis explains plans for future conversations on the podcast. After a brief break over the next few weeks, the podcast will pick back up on September 8th with conversations that coincide with the 8 Marks of Spiritual Formation series for the Fall.

And as always, if you have ideas for conversations that would help you in your relationship with Jesus, please send them to [email protected]

In this episode, Eli sits down with Hannah Harden and Aaron Pew to discuss why our participation and presence in worship matters when we gather together as the church. Whether you are musical, or you can’t hold a tune in a bucket, there is something amazing that happens when we focus our hearts and minds onto God in that way. We discuss some of the natural hurdles of participating in worship through song, and also some advice for those who may struggle in seeing the point of it all.

In this episode of The District Church Podcast, Travis, Eli, and Paul dive into Jesus’ powerful words in John 8:31–59. What does it mean to abide in truth? How does real freedom begin with surrender? And why does true belonging come not from bloodlines or background, but from embracing Jesus as Lord? Join the conversation as we explore the deep connections between truth, freedom, and identity—and how they challenge our modern assumptions about what it means to really live.

First-time guest Kavin Kramer joins Eli Bayless and Travis Roberts for a raw and honest conversation about his journey through deconstruction. From questioning long-held beliefs to wrestling with doubt, Kavin shares how God's presence — and a faithful community — led him to a deeper, more grounded faith. Along the way, the team reflects on the balance between truth and experience, and how real faith is often born in seasons of honest struggle.

This episode is for anyone who’s ever wondered if faith can survive honest questions — and even come out stronger.

In this special episode, high schoolers from The District Church share honest, powerful reflections from summer camp 2025 at Hidden Haven. From powerful worship to quiet moments with God, hear how students encountered Jesus in personal ways—some for the first time, others in fresh and deeper ways. They open up about what they learned about faith, friendships, and following Jesus back home. You’ll laugh, be challenged, and maybe even tear up as they talk about how camp didn’t just change a week—it changed their walk.

P.S. Say these words to Mady when you see her: "Made for more."