In this episode, host Alisha Bynum sits down with Emily Chapman for a behind-the-scenes conversation about Annual Conference 2026 and the preparation that goes into bringing the event to life. Together they discuss the planning process, the importance of creating meaningful experiences for attendees, and the excitement surrounding this year’s gathering.

Along the way, Emily shares insights from her own leadership journey, the value of teamwork and collaboration, and what she hopes people will experience when they gather together for Annual Conference this year.

Those who would like to be considered as a future guest are invited to submit a Thrive Story at https://www.txcumc.org/share-a-thrive. Whether someone serves in a formal leadership role or lives out their faith in quiet and faithful ways, their story can encourage others and help strengthen connection across the conference.

In this episode, host Alisha Bynum sits down with Nikki Gray and Stephen Martin to talk all things worship for this year’s Texas Annual Conference. Together they share their vision for worship, what attendees can expect throughout the week, and how music, prayer, and sacred moments will help shape the conference experience.

Along the way, Nikki and Stephen share personal stories, ministry insights, and what excites them most as they help lead worship for this year’s gathering.

Those who would like to be considered as a future guest are invited to submit a Thrive Story at https://www.txcumc.org/share-a-thrive. Whether someone serves in a formal leadership role or lives out their faith in quiet and faithful ways, their story can encourage others and help strengthen connection across the conference.

In this episode, host Alisha Bynum sits down with Steve Woody, District Superintendent of the Northeast District in the Texas Annual Conference. Together they explore Steve’s extraordinary journey of faith—from childhood heartbreak and seasons of deep loss to a life-changing encounter that forever shaped his call to ministry.

Along the way, Steve shares powerful stories of family, struggle, grace, and the moments that reminded him God was never finished writing his story. He also reflects on how those experiences continue to shape the way he walks alongside clergy, supports local churches, and leads with compassion, courage, and hope across the Northeast District.

Those who would like to be considered as a future guest are invited to submit a Thrive Story at https://www.txcumc.org/share-a-thrive. Whether someone serves in a formal leadership role or lives out their faith in quiet and faithful ways, their story can encourage others and help strengthen connection across the conference.

In this episode, host Alisha Bynum sits down with Rev. Dr. Vincent Harris, pastor and Director of the African American Church Initiative (AACI) and We Love All God’s Children for the Texas Annual Conference. Together they explore what it really looks like for the Church to move from an inward focus to becoming more deeply engaged in the communities it serves. Vincent shares why community engagement matters now more than ever and how churches can live out their faith in ways that make a lasting impact.Along the way, you’ll also hear about Vincent’s own journey in ministry, the experiences that shaped his leadership, and the heart and vision that continue to guide his work as he helps strengthen the future of the Church.Those who would like to be considered as a future guest are invited to submit a Thrive Story at https://www.txcumc.org/share-a-thrive. Whether someone serves in a formal leadership role or lives out their faith in quiet and faithful ways, their story can encourage others and help strengthen connection across the conference.

In this episode, host Alisha Bynum sits down with Laura Althaus, a delegate to the upcoming Vision Gathering in Calgary, Canada, hosted by the Council of Bishops this fall. Together they explore Laura’s call to ministry, what it means to be a young person navigating leadership in the Church, and the importance of showing up authentically in every context of ministry.

In this episode, host Alisha Bynum sits down with Rev. Elizabeth Duffin, District Superintendent of the Southwest District in the Texas Annual Conference. Together they reflect on Elizabeth’s journey in ministry, the people and moments that have shaped her leadership, and her passion for serving the Church in a vibrant and diverse district.

Along the way, you’ll also get to know Elizabeth on a more personal level through stories from her life, reflections on faith, and the values that guide her work in ministry.

Those who would like to be considered as a future guest are invited to submit a Thrive Story at https://www.txcumc.org/share-a-thrive. Whether someone serves in a formal leadership role or lives out their faith in quiet and faithful ways, their story can encourage others and help strengthen connection across the conference.

In this episode, host Alisha Bynum sits down with Rev. Dr. Deborah Vaughn, District Superintendent of the Metro District in the Texas Annual Conference. Together they explore Deborah’s call to ministry, her leadership within the conference, and her passion for serving churches across the Metro District. She shares insight into the opportunities and challenges of leading in a diverse and ever-changing ministry context.

Along the way, you’ll also get to know Deborah beyond her role—through personal stories, reflections on faith, and the experiences that have shaped her approach to ministry and leadership.

Those who would like to be considered as a future guest are invited to submit a Thrive Story at https://www.txcumc.org/share-a-thrive. Whether someone serves in a formal leadership role or lives out their faith in quiet and faithful ways, their story can encourage others and help strengthen connection across the conference.

In this episode, host Alisha Bynum sits down with Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey to reflect on her life before her call to ministry and the journey that led her to episcopal leadership in the United Methodist Church. Together they explore the experiences, influences, and moments that shaped her path and continue to guide her leadership today.

Along the way, Bishop Harvey shares what it means to lead in a season of change, offering insight, wisdom, and a perspective grounded in connection, purpose, and a steady sense of hope for the Church.

Those who would like to be considered as a future guest are invited to submit a Thrive Story at https://www.txcumc.org/share-a-thrive. Whether someone serves in a formal leadership role or lives out their faith in quiet and faithful ways, their story can encourage others and help strengthen connection across the conference.

In this episode, host Alisha Bynum sits down with Rev. Cesar Martinez, District Superintendent of the Southeast District in the Texas Annual Conference. Together they explore Cesar’s call to ministry, his leadership within the conference, and his passion for serving diverse communities. Cesar shares insights into his work with Hispanic Ministries and the opportunities it creates for connection, growth, and outreach across the Southeast District and beyond.

Along the way, you’ll also get to know Cesar beyond his role—through personal stories, reflections on faith, and the experiences that have shaped his approach to ministry and leadership.

Those who would like to be considered as a future guest are invited to submit a Thrive Story at https://www.txcumc.org/share-a-thrive. Whether someone serves in a formal leadership role or lives out their faith in quiet and faithful ways, their story can encourage others and help strengthen connection across the conference.

In this episode, host Alisha Bynum sits down with Rev. Kip Gilts, District Superintendent of the Northwest District in the Texas Annual Conference, as he prepares to enter retirement after a lifetime of faithful service. Together they reflect on Kip’s journey in ministry, the many ways he has served the Texas Annual Conference, and the relationships, challenges, and moments that have defined his leadership. From his time as Assistant to the Bishop to his role as District Superintendent, Kip’s story is one of steady faith, dedication, and deep love for the Church.

Along the way, you’ll also get to know Kip on a more personal level—through his love of baseball, his deep joy in his grandchildren, and the experiences that have shaped both his ministry and his life beyond the Church.

Those who would like to be considered as a future guest are invited to submit a Thrive Story at https://www.txcumc.org/share-a-thrive. Whether someone serves in a formal leadership role or lives out their faith in quiet and faithful ways, their story can encourage others and help strengthen connection across the conference.