In this episode, Pastor Josh Saefkow sits down with Jimmy Payne to hear his journey from chasing acceptance and battling addiction to finding true freedom in Christ. Jimmy shares candidly about his rock-bottom moment, the life-changing influence of his wife Jessica, and the leap of faith that led to starting Finkles Bake Shop. What began in his parents’ kitchen has become a thriving business and ministry that serves thousands each year. With honesty and humor, Jimmy reflects on family, faith, and trusting God to turn brokenness into purpose. This episode is a story of redemption and courage that will encourage anyone learning to follow God’s call.

Check out Finkles Bake Shop today! https://www.finklesbakeshop.com/ 

In this episode, Pastor Josh Saefkow sits down with Dennis Henderson, National Director of the 6:4 Fellowship, to reflect on six decades of marriage and more than 50 years of ministry. Dennis shares candidly about the dangers of making ministry an idol, how he nearly lost his marriage by putting church before family, and the course corrections that reshaped his life. He emphasizes the importance of praying with your spouse, cultivating a prayer culture in the local church, and leading from a place of intimacy with God. Listeners will be encouraged by Dennis’s wisdom, honesty, and practical insights into building a ministry fueled by prayer and the Word.

In this episode, Pastor Josh Saefkow sits down with Mike Sherrard, president of Apologetics, Inc., to explore why apologetics matters today and how it equips believers to defend their faith with truth and compassion. Mike shares insights from over 20 years in pastoral ministry and his current work engaging students and young adults across the nation. Together, they address the rising hunger for spiritual conversations, questions about God’s goodness in the face of suffering, and the cultural challenges of sexuality, bioethics, and artificial intelligence. Mike emphasizes the importance of relational apologetics—listening well, asking thoughtful questions, and pointing people to the abundant life found in Christ. This episode offers encouragement and practical steps for anyone seeking to grow in confidence when sharing their faith.

In this episode, Pastor Josh Saefkow sits down with Ryan Appling, the Student Minister at Flat Creek Baptist Church, to discuss the impact of longevity in student ministry. Ryan shares his journey of serving for over 15 years, including the benefits of staying in one place for eight years and how it fosters trust, influence, and deeper relationships with students and their families. They explore the challenges of technology, anxiety in students, and the importance of parental involvement. Ryan also highlights impactful ministry efforts like DNow and Missions Now weekends, where students grow in their faith and evangelism. This episode is filled with encouragement for student ministers, parents, and pastors to remain faithful in their calling and invest in the next generation.

In this episode, Pastor Josh Saefkow sits down with Brent and Jade Harrison to discuss their unique journey, where God called them to a life of ranching, ministry, and worship. Brent shares his testimony of returning to faith after a career in country music and how God has used his gifts to lead worship and for Covered Worship. Jade adds insight into their ministry's focus, and together, they recount how God led them to Montana to serve local communities, manage a ranch, and now pastor a new Cowboy Church. This episode is packed with stories of faith, obedience, and God's provision.

In this episode, Pastor Josh Saefkow interviews Chris Harper, discussing the impactful work of Better Man, an initiative that has launched its 10,000th study and is active in 4,300 churches across the US. The episode addresses the crisis in manhood and introduces the Four W's framework for defining success as a man: courageously following God's word, loving and serving God's woman, excelling at God's work, and bettering God's world. Harper highlights the importance of multigenerational discipleship, encouraging older men to engage younger generations in relationships focused on personal growth.

In this episode, Pastor Josh sits down with Darryl Hicks, a candidate for Fayette County Commissioner, to discuss his journey, motivations, and vision for public service. Hicks shares insights into the role of a county commissioner, covering responsibilities like public safety, economic development, and community services. He reflects on his faith background and how it inspires his pursuit of politics, aiming to bring a balance to residential and commercial tax policies to retain young talent in the community. Hicks also emphasizes his focus on competence over party affiliation. Throughout the conversation, he highlights his commitment to servant leadership and working collaboratively across political lines to serve the community effectively.

In the September podcast episode, Pastor Josh interviews Martha Wilson, a dedicated leader in women's ministry for 43 years. Martha shares her journey from starting a small home Bible study in Augusta, Georgia, which grew from 16 to 90 participants in just one year, to developing the Touching Hearts ministry that thrives at Flat Creek Baptist Church. Listeners are invited to explore the resources available through the Touching Hearts ministry and the podcast 'A Burst of Hope' for further support and encouragement.

Howdy partner! On this episode of The Josh Saefkow Podcast, Pastor Josh sits down and chats with his dear friend, Dr. Lew Sterrett. Sterrett takes the time to walk through his life, explaining how he came to know the Lord and the details of his ministry: Sermon on the "Mount." He is also the author of many books, including Life Lessons from a Horse Whisperer and Horses Don't Text.

Pastor Josh Saefkow chats with Alison Veazey about what distinguishes true Biblical counseling from secular counseling. Veazey explains how using God's Word as the basis for our counseling gives true freedom through Jesus Christ rather than just working to manage emotions.

Alison Veazey is the Co-founder, Dean of Students, and Instructor of Think LifeChange Institute of Biblical Counseling. Veazey earned her Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University and is also the President and Co-Founder of Victory Reins, a ministry of Think LifeChange.

Counseling Distinctives - Think LifeChange (PDF)