The Shepherd-hearted Leader Podcast

In this episode of the Shepherd-hearted Leader Podcast, Nate unpacks Samuel’s role in anointing and journeying with David, challenging leaders to see themselves as “Samuel” rather than “David” by recognizing and investing in who God is forming around them for the long haul. They discuss how insecurity and performance-based identity make leaders unsafe, why it must be safe to live and work “under your roof,” and the difference between coaching and mentoring.

In this episode, Jodi sits down with Nate to kick off a short series based on Nate’s new book Reaching Into Their Future, exploring what it looks like for leaders to see beyond people’s present circumstances and speak blessing, purpose, and hope into who God is forming them to become, especially in a culture that often pulls us toward self-centeredness.

Nate Ruch welcomes Irving Fryar to the Shepherd Hearted Leader podcast for an honest conversation about grit, grace, and leadership forged through real life. Irving shares more of his journey (from a long NFL career into pastoral ministry), why giving his testimony has been deeply personal, and how leaders can stay faithful through trials.

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Jonathan Weibel is an author, minister, and comedian. In this episode, Jonathan joins Jodi Ruch for a powerful conversation about what it truly means to love God and love our neighbors, drawing from his book Front Yard Mission. They discuss his personal story and the Front Yard Mission movement. Jonathan also shares about the rhythms of prayer and presence, along with practical ways leaders can build intentional relationships right where they live. It’s a timely reminder for shepherd-hearted leaders to stay missional and keep the Great Commandment central, even when the world tries to pull us apart.

https://frontyardmission.com/book/

In this episode, Jodi Ruch sits down with Jordy and Angie Savageau to hear the backstory of their tithing testimony. The Savageaus openly share about their years of struggle and how the Lord rebuilt their lives through hard work, obedience, and discipline. They describe the sacrifices they made to overcome a major financial setback. The conversation touches on realigning priorities, trusting God, caring for family, learning to budget, and making consistent choices for a better future. They express deep gratitude for how God shaped their character through the process, recognizing that their years of struggle were redeemed—and now they have a passion to see others experience God’s blessings through faithfulness and obedience.

Resources:

https://www.ramseysolutions.com/

Money Talks message: https://youtu.be/Gs4zQ1S2-EM?si=i64r_h4HhJ9EktjV

About Jordan & Angie: https://www.remax.com/real-estate-agents/angela-savageau-blaine-mn/101909776#

Nate Ruch talks with Bill Tibbetts, VP of Education and Multiplication at The Stone Table, about breaking the sacred–secular divide. Bill shares why our identity in Christ shapes how we show up at work, how excellence opens doors for witness, and how frameworks like Knowledge, Virtues, and Skills equip marketplace leaders. From small groups to global business-as-mission, this conversation will help you see your everyday work as an act of worship and mission.

https://www.thestonetable.org/

What does it take to build a marriage that can handle anything life brings? In this episode, Nate and Jodi Ruch talk with Danny and Stephanie Gutierrez—veteran pastors, missionaries, and marriage ministry leaders—about lessons from 26 years of marriage and two decades of ministry. They share practical wisdom for couples who want to thrive in every season of life, as well as their heart for Foot Rock, the nonprofit they founded to provide retreats and support for international ministry leaders, Spanish-speaking pastors, and missionaries. Whether you’re in ministry or simply looking to strengthen your relationship, this conversation is packed with encouragement, honesty, and hope.

Resources:

www.footrock.org

In this episode Jodi Ruch sits down with Brad Dennis, pastor, retired navy, search and rescue leader, and founder of Called2Rescue Ministries. In this conversation, they explore what it means to show up for people with a shepherd’s heart. Brad shares stories from the front lines of anti-trafficking work, recounts moments of deep impact and transformation, and challenges us all to remember who we were before Jesus found us. You will be inspired to join the fight!

https://www.c2rministries.org

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What happens when ministry and family overlap? In this honest and heartfelt episode, Chy and Camry, both daughters-in-law in the Ruch family, share what it’s really like to navigate leadership, parenting, expectations, boundaries, and burnout while serving in ministry. From legacy pressure to finding personal identity, and from setting family-first boundaries to protecting their kids’ privacy, this conversation is full of wisdom, laughter, and relatable moments for anyone in church leadership or a ministry family.

https://youtu.be/9MKUNlyDYSU?si=taf300oi9ax_7VV5

https://youtu.be/JgFKt7KfrGc?si=1ZRVXiiuzdLhThSa

In this powerful bonus episode from Holy Spirit Night, Pastor Wayne Northup joins us to unpack the baptism of the Holy Spirit, not as a distant doctrine, but as a life-changing, empowering gift for every believer. With humor, clarity, and deep insight, Pastor Wayne explains who the Holy Spirit is, why His baptism matters, and how to receive it. Whether you’re new or hungry for more, this message will stir your faith and equip you to lead with power and purpose.