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Coaches do more than just draw up plays and win games—they shape lives. In this episode of Unscripted, Tommy Kyle shares how his journey as a player, coach, and ministry leader has helped him serve and impact the next generation.
Tommy has spent his life investing in coaches, helping them see their role not just as game strategists but as life mentors. Since 2008, he has led Nations of Coaches, a ministry dedicated to equipping coaches to achieve their higher calling—shaping the character of young athletes. Before stepping into this role, Tommy’s journey took him from playing college basketball at Tennessee Temple University to serving with SCORE International, a global sports ministry, and later coaching high school basketball for over a decade. Under his leadership, Decatur Heritage Christian Academy made three state Final Four appearances and won five area titles. But his greatest impact has been in the lives of coaches and athletes beyond the scoreboard.
In this episode, you'll hear more about:
🏀 From Player to Pastor – How Tommy’s basketball journey led him to a mission field bigger than he imagined.
🏀 Why Coaches are Culture Shapers – Billy Graham once said, “One coach will impact more people in a year than the average person will in a lifetime.” Tommy is making sure those coaches are equipped to lead with character.
🏀 The Power of Discipleship – The moment Tommy realized he knew the basketball playbook better than the Bible—and how it changed his life.
🏀 March Madness or March Ministry? – The unseen challenges of college basketball, from coaching transitions to student-athlete pressure, and how prayer is making an impact.🏀 How Churches Can Get in the Game – Ways pastors and churches can support college programs, adopt a team, and be a part of what God is doing in sports.
Tommy and his wife, Heather, live in Decatur and have eight children. His passion for mentoring coaches has led to the placement of hundreds of character coaches and chaplains in college basketball programs nationwide—including at some of the top-ranked schools in the country.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone who loves sports, leadership, or simply seeing faith lived out in unexpected places. Whether you’re a coach, a pastor, or just someone who wants to make a difference, Tommy’s story will inspire you to think bigger about where and how God can use you.
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The Association of Related Churches (ARC) is a cooperative of independent churches from different denominations, networks, and backgrounds who strategically resource church planters and pastors to help them reach people with the message of Jesus.
Since 2000, ARC has helped to plant more than 1,070 churches worldwide. If you have a dream in your heart to start a life-giving church and reach your city with the message of Jesus, ARC is here to come alongside you in the journey. Attending ARC Launch, a church planter training event, is the first step in planting a church with ARC. You will hear from ARC pastors, coaches, and staff as they share the nuts and bolts of church planting. Discover more and register for ARC Launch at https://www.arcchurches.com/launch/.
Don’t Do Ministry Alone - We need relationships to thrive. You need other people in your corner, who have gone through similar things that you’ve gone through, and believe in your dream. ARC provides opportunities for you to build relationships with others in ministry that will support and strengthen you in what God has called you to do. Learn more at https://www.arcchurches.com/connect/.
“As evangelists, we don’t make disciples. All discipleship is local. We don’t do missions outside the local church.”
The next Unscripted Podcast features an incredible conversation with Dr. Rob Hoskins, President of OneHope—a global movement committed to reaching the next generation with the Gospel. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to impact millions, this episode will inspire and challenge you in ways you didn’t expect.
In this candid conversation, Dino and Rob dive deep into:
The story behind OneHope’s mission to bring God’s Word to every child in the world.
How a vision in 1987 turned into a movement reaching 152 million kids annually.
Why missions is at risk in the American church—and how we can’t afford to let that happen.
The importance of generosity, collaboration, and church planting in fulfilling the Great Commission.
How pastors can practically align their church’s mission strategy for greater impact.
OneHope is one of the most impactful ministries you may not have heard of—but they’ve been shaping the future of global missions for decades. You’ll leave this episode stirred to action and equipped with fresh insight on how your church or ministry can play a part in reaching the world.
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The Association of Related Churches (ARC) is a cooperative of independent churches from different denominations, networks, and backgrounds who strategically resource church planters and pastors to help them reach people with the message of Jesus.
Since 2000, ARC has helped to plant more than 1,070 churches worldwide. If you have a dream in your heart to start a life-giving church and reach your city with the message of Jesus, ARC is here to come alongside you in the journey. Attending ARC Launch, a church planter training event, is the first step in planting a church with ARC. You will hear from ARC pastors, coaches, and staff as they share the nuts and bolts of church planting. Discover more and register for ARC Launch at https://www.arcchurches.com/launch/.
Don’t Do Ministry Alone - We need relationships to thrive. You need other people in your corner, who have gone through similar things that you’ve gone through, and believe in your dream. ARC provides opportunities for you to build relationships with others in ministry that will support and strengthen you in what God has called you to do. Learn more at https://www.arcchurches.com/connect/.
Hal Donaldson’s story is one of redemption, resilience, and passion for giving back. As a child, he and his family were forced to survive on food stamps and welfare after his parents were hit by a drunk driver. For Hal, it was the local church that made all the difference. He says, “We made it in large part because of the generosity of the local church. These people wrapped their arms around me. If it wasn’t for the local church, I would’ve chosen a life of bitterness, but I saw Jesus through their kindness.”
“If you don’t pay attention to what’s going on inside, you may be headed for some tough times. Because we’re all human, and part of the strategy of staying ahead of the enemy and defeating the enemy is that you’re not in it alone.” - Pastor Greg Surratt
We’re thrilled to share a new episode of Unscripted, featuring none other than the legend himself, Pastor Greg Surratt, co-founder of ARC and a true mentor to pastors everywhere. This episode dives deep into the heart of pastoral care and what it takes to finish strong. Greg opens up about his journey to help pastors find rest, healing, and genuine connection through The Retreat at Church Creek and his own life lessons.
Pastor Greg talks about:
The Vision for The Retreat at Church Creek: A haven where pastors can experience "guilt-free naps," peace, and support while they unwind and reset in the beauty of 100+ acres on John’s Island.
The Need for Honest Conversations: Greg shares how the “high-low” sessions (where pastors share their highs and lows) bring transparency and healing among leaders.
Lessons from Pastor Darrin Patrick's Story: The retreat was inspired by the late Darren Patrick, who envisioned a space where pastors could openly discuss struggles without judgment.
Mental Health Support: With many pastors struggling with burnout, Greg explains how The Retreat at Church Creek offers a 12-week aftercare program to ensure ongoing growth and support.
Finding Community and Accountability: Greg emphasizes the importance of a “band of brothers and sisters” who can encourage and hold one another accountable in ministry.
This episode offers more than just a behind-the-scenes look at The Retreat at Church Creek—it’s a genuine discussion around living well and finishing strong in ministry.
Catch the full episode now to hear how Greg is shaping a healthier, more resilient future for pastors, and why he believes caring for church leaders is essential to caring for the church itself.
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The Association of Related Churches (ARC) is a cooperative of independent churches from different denominations, networks, and backgrounds who strategically resource church planters and pastors to help them reach people with the message of Jesus.
Since 2000, ARC has helped to plant more than 1,070 churches worldwide. If you have a dream in your heart to start a life-giving church and reach your city with the message of Jesus, ARC is here to come alongside you in the journey. Attending ARC Launch, a church planter training event, is the first step in planting a church with ARC. You will hear from ARC pastors, coaches, and staff as they share the nuts and bolts of church planting. Discover more and register for ARC Launch at https://www.arcchurches.com/launch/.
Don’t Do Ministry Alone - We need relationships to thrive. You need other people in your corner, who have gone through similar things that you’ve gone through, and believe in your dream. ARC provides opportunities for you to build relationships with others in ministry that will support and strengthen you in what God has called you to do. Learn more at https://www.arcchurches.com/connect/.
“If we weren’t here, would the city miss us? If we were gone, would the city grieve?” - Pastor Ed Newton
In the latest episode of Unscripted, Pastor Dino interviews Dr. Ed Newton, lead pastor of Community Bible Church (CBC) in San Antonio, Texas. Dr. Newton leads a thriving multigenerational, multicultural congregation of over 27,000 members, all driven by a passion for disciple-making and living out the good news of Jesus in every corner of their community.
Raised by deaf parents and having spent part of his childhood in government-subsidized housing for people with disabilities, Ed experienced firsthand the power of community support and outreach. His upbringing gave him a deep understanding of the importance of creating systems that empower and uplift others. That foundation, along with his background in evangelism and student ministry, shapes his current work at CBC. With multiple theological degrees and a heart for revival, evangelism, and discipleship, Pastor Ed is committed to transforming both individuals and communities.
Here are some of the key topics they discuss:
Radical generosity and open-handed living – Pastor Ed explains how CBC embraces a spirit of generosity, trusting that when the church lives with open hands, God pours back abundant blessings.
The church as a 'battleship' for the city – Rather than a place of comfort, Pastor Ed describes the church as a mission base, actively serving and transforming the community.
Innovative ways to blend church and community spaces – CBC’s 60-acre campus is a model for serving not only the congregation but the entire city, offering community spaces like parks and sports courts for everyone to enjoy.
Pastor Ed also shares how CBC has developed strong relationships with city leaders, including the mayor, police chief, and fire chief. He emphasizes that if there’s ever a need, he’s asked city leaders, “Would you call us first?” His belief is that the Christian community often undersells itself and doesn't engage as much as it should. He reminds us that God isn’t looking for the “qualified,” He’s looking for those who are available.
If you're a pastor, church leader, or someone passionate about making an impact in your community, this episode is a must-watch. Pastor Ed’s journey and insights are both inspiring and practical, offering a roadmap for how churches can expand their influence and engage their cities in meaningful ways.
____________
The Association of Related Churches (ARC) is a cooperative of independent churches from different denominations, networks, and backgrounds who strategically resource church planters and pastors to help them reach people with the message of Jesus.
Since 2000, ARC has helped to plant more than 1,070 churches worldwide. If you have a dream in your heart to start a life-giving church and reach your city with the message of Jesus, ARC is here to come alongside you in the journey. Attending ARC Launch, a church planter training event, is the first step in planting a church with ARC. You will hear from ARC pastors, coaches, and staff as they share the nuts and bolts of church planting. Discover more and register for ARC Launch at https://www.arcchurches.com/launch/.
Don’t Do Ministry Alone - We need relationships to thrive. You need other people in your corner, who have gone through similar things that you’ve gone through, and believe in your dream. ARC provides opportunities for you to build relationships with others in ministry that will support and strengthen you in what God has called you to do. Learn more at https://www.arcchurches.com/connect/.
“All of the vision I ever need is found in the valley of need. Need creates vision.” - Matthew Barnett
Pastor Matthew Barnett, founder of the LA Dream Center, has dedicated his life to serving those facing homelessness, hunger, and addiction. What started as a three-month commitment turned into a transformative movement that has inspired churches worldwide to establish their own dream centers. As Dino Rizzo puts it, “Where would LA be without the LA Dream Center and Pastor Matthew Barnett?”
In the latest episode of Unscripted, we take you on an exclusive tour of the Dream Center, showcasing powerful testimonies from individuals who have found hope and healing there. You'll hear directly from a former gang member and a woman who overcame abuse, both of whom are now sober and passionate about their faith.
Highlights of the episode include:
Behind-the-Scenes Access: Visit the 14th floor, home to men in a year-long recovery program, many recovering from fentanyl addiction and rebuilding their lives after incarceration. Witness the 15th floor where women are recovering from addition and self harm.
Life-Changing Impact: With tens of thousands having passed through its programs, the Dream Center exemplifies how setbacks and victories are all part of serving those in need.
Championing Outreach: Matthew and Dino discuss the importance of churches becoming "YES Churches," ready to meet community needs.
Actionable Strategies: Matthew shares practical advice for starting outreach efforts, stressing the importance of small, consistent steps. (Just. Get. Started.)
Engaging the Church: Learn how church members can serve as case managers, fostering a hands-on approach to support families in need in their community.
As the conversation unfolds, Matthew and Dino candidly discuss the challenges of outreach work and the importance of caring for those who feel invisible and broken. One of Pastor Matthew’s biggest pieces of advice to pastors? “Throw yourselves into the lives of people. Serve like Jesus. Don’t worry about being an overnight success.”
____________
The Association of Related Churches (ARC) is a cooperative of independent churches from different denominations, networks, and backgrounds who strategically resource church planters and pastors to help them reach people with the message of Jesus.
Since 2000, ARC has helped to plant more than 1,070 churches worldwide. If you have a dream in your heart to start a life-giving church and reach your city with the message of Jesus, ARC is here to come alongside you in the journey. Attending ARC Launch, a church planter training event, is the first step in planting a church with ARC. You will hear from ARC pastors, coaches, and staff as they share the nuts and bolts of church planting. Discover more and register for ARC Launch at https://www.arcchurches.com/launch/.
Don’t Do Ministry Alone - We need relationships to thrive. You need other people in your corner, who have gone through similar things that you’ve gone through, and believe in your dream. ARC provides opportunities for you to build relationships with others in ministry that will support and strengthen you in what God has called you to do. Learn more at https://www.arcchurches.com/connect/.
“You’re called to reach a city. You need to love your city.” - John Siebeling
We’re excited to share the latest episode of Unscripted, where we hit the streets with Pastors Dino Rizzo and John Siebeling for an inspiring conversation on living out the Great Commission through service and outreach. This episode, recorded on the move in Memphis, offers a raw and unscripted look at the heart behind local missions, engaging the next generation in serving your city, and includes countless insights that will challenge and encourage you in your own journey.
Episode Highlights:
Serve Day in Action: Pastor John shares about integrating Serve Day into the AXIS Conference, mobilizing 2,000 students to serve across Memphis. He explains why service is not just an event, but a lifestyle deeply rooted in the DNA of the church.
The Power of Local Missions: Dino and John discuss the importance of addressing the greatest needs in their communities. From feeding programs to outreach in under-resourced neighborhoods, they emphasize that every church, regardless of size, can make a significant impact.
Birthday in a Box Initiative: A heartwarming segment where Anna Siebeling highlights a new outreach project—Birthday in a Box. This initiative provides all the essentials for a child’s birthday party to families in need, ensuring every child feels celebrated.
Building Strong Churches: Pastor John delves into how a strong, healthy church becomes a powerful force for good in its city, encouraging us all to love our cities deeply and be the hands and feet of Jesus in our communities.
This episode is packed with stories, practical advice, and a deep passion for serving others. Whether you're looking for new ways to engage your church in outreach or simply need a dose of inspiration, this conversation is a must-watch.
Tune in now to Season 5, Episode 2 of Unscripted on YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts, and join us in the mission to make a difference in our cities and beyond.
____________
The Association of Related Churches (ARC) is a cooperative of independent churches from different denominations, networks, and backgrounds who strategically resource church planters and pastors to help them reach people with the message of Jesus.
Since 2000, ARC has helped to plant more than 1,070 churches worldwide. If you have a dream in your heart to start a life-giving church and reach your city with the message of Jesus, ARC is here to come alongside you in the journey. Attending ARC Launch, a church planter training event, is the first step in planting a church with ARC. You will hear from ARC pastors, coaches, and staff as they share the nuts and bolts of church planting. Discover more and register for ARC Launch at https://www.arcchurches.com/launch/.
Don’t Do Ministry Alone - We need relationships to thrive. You need other people in your corner, who have gone through similar things that you’ve gone through, and believe in your dream. ARC provides opportunities for you to build relationships with others in ministry that will support and strengthen you in what God has called you to do. Learn more at https://www.arcchurches.com/connect/.
We’re thrilled to kick off Season 5 of Unscripted with an episode you won’t want to miss! This premiere takes you deep into the heart of outreach and service, featuring a powerful lineup of leaders who are transforming communities through love, faith, and action. We also follow several churches on SERVE Day, showcasing the incredible impact of unified efforts to serve others, including young church plants that are making a difference despite limited resources.
Our guests are exceptional leaders who have dedicated their lives to serving others:
Dr. Robert Record: A Family Medicine Practitioner and founder of the Christ Health Center and Birmingham Dream Center
Chad Sleeper: Central Director of Local Outreach at Church of the Highlands, who reveals his strategies for identifying community needs and leading teams with passion and purpose
Chris Erwin: Campus Pastor for Highlands Montgomery, who has spent 14 years cultivating outreach by building strong connections with city leaders to address the most pressing community needs
Rachel Erwin: National and Local Serve Director, who coordinates impactful national outreach initiatives, including a collaboration with Convoy of Hope that reached over 120,000 people
Jamil Gilleylen: Campus Pastor for Woodlawn Campus and former director of the Dream Center, who offers deep insights into serving at-risk populations
JP Brumfield: Servolution Coordinator, with over 20 years of experience in helping churches identify needs and organize volunteers and resources to meet them
What to Expect:
Our guests tackle key questions about outreach:
What drives them to serve and keeps them going in the face of challenges?
How do they identify and address the most critical needs in their communities?
What makes an outreach initiative successful, and how do they measure impact?
The importance of collaboration with other organizations and community leaders.
Practical advice for engaging and inspiring volunteers to take part in life-changing outreach.
____________
The Association of Related Churches (ARC) is a cooperative of independent churches from different denominations, networks, and backgrounds who strategically resource church planters and pastors to help them reach people with the message of Jesus.
Since 2000, ARC has helped to plant more than 1,070 churches worldwide. If you have a dream in your heart to start a life-giving church and reach your city with the message of Jesus, ARC is here to come alongside you in the journey. Attending ARC Launch, a church planter training event, is the first step in planting a church with ARC. You will hear from ARC pastors, coaches, and staff as they share the nuts and bolts of church planting. Discover more and register for ARC Launch at https://www.arcchurches.com/launch/.
Don’t Do Ministry Alone - We need relationships to thrive. You need other people in your corner, who have gone through similar things that you’ve gone through, and believe in your dream. ARC provides opportunities for you to build relationships with others in ministry that will support and strengthen you in what God has called you to do. Learn more at https://www.arcchurches.com/connect/.
“I think you come in with a towel, not a sword. We’re laboring with other men and women who have sowed – you’re going to reap from some seeds that others have planted.”
Steve Robinson is a pastor, speaker, and author with a ministry of thousands across six physical Church of the King locations, an online campus, and radio and television broadcasts. He is a graduate of Tulane University, holds a master’s degree from King’s Seminary, and a Doctor of Ministry degree from Southeastern University.
Pastor Steve serves on the boards of Equip, a worldwide leadership organization led by John Maxwell, and Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He has a deep love for New Orleans, the surrounding areas, and its vibrant people and culture. Since founding Church of the King with his wife, Jennifer, in 1999, their passion for the city has only intensified, and they believe their newest campus will play a crucial role in training urban church planters to reach population centers.
In the latest episode of Unscripted, Dino visits Steve at his current campus in the suburbs of New Orleans and their newest location under renovation on St. Charles Avenue. They discuss many angles of Steve’s journey of planting, growing, expanding, and learning as a pastor over the past 25 years, including:
How churches in the suburbs have a responsibility to the city
The power in spiritual growth campaigns and small groups to grow your church and resource other pastors
Getting set free from the comparison game by focusing on your own race and God-given calling
The components of launching a campus effectively
How important it is to embrace multiple mediums to reach more people
Why facing pain and untreated trauma is essential for leaders
They also discuss the importance of not “switching dance partners” halfway through the dance and how your pastor, board, accountability partners, and friends who know your soul and blind spots are vital in your health and growth. He emphasizes the importance of these 3 principles:
“Deal with your pain early. Develop healthy patterns. And watch for the snake of pride.”
Get ready to be inspired—not just to visit New Orleans – but to expand your leadership vision for your city, pursue personal growth, and strengthen friendships along the way. Tune in to this episode on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform!
____________
The Association of Related Churches (ARC) is a cooperative of independent churches from different denominations, networks, and backgrounds who strategically resource church planters and pastors to help them reach people with the message of Jesus.
Since 2000, ARC has helped to plant more than 1,070 churches worldwide. If you have a dream in your heart to start a life-giving church and reach your city with the message of Jesus, ARC is here to come alongside you in the journey. Attending ARC Launch, a church planter training event, is the first step in planting a church with ARC. You will hear from ARC pastors, coaches, and staff as they share the nuts and bolts of church planting. Discover more and register for ARC Launch at https://www.arcchurches.com/launch/.
Don’t Do Ministry Alone - We need relationships to thrive. You need other people in your corner, who have gone through similar things that you’ve gone through, and believe in your dream. ARC provides opportunities for you to build relationships with others in ministry that will support and strengthen you in what God has called you to do. Learn more at https://www.arcchurches.com/connect/.
“A lot of young leaders and church planters think they need to get into ministry as a profession. However, there will be many pastors who will be fruitful and flourish as bi-vocational leaders, and we need to applaud that. You’re in a rich, rich field where you can plant and reap a harvest in ways that some of us will never be able to.”
Pastor Terry Crist is the co-lead pastor of City of Grace in Phoenix alongside his wife, Judith. As fifth-generation pastors, they have been building the local church and helping hurting people for over 30 years. Terry has both a Th.M. and a D.Min. and a business certificate in nonprofit management from Harvard Business School. He is passionate about community transformation and promotes adoption and foster care through his work in state government.
In this inspiring ‘Unscripted’ conversation, Terry shares some enlightening perspectives with Dino, including:
Why a comprehensive approach to addressing physical, emotional, and spiritual needs in your community is crucial
Pushing the bounds of women in ministry
Embracing bi-vocational opportunities as a way to connect with communities and sustain your ministry during the early stages
How pursuing knowledge and theological exploration helps you grow in your relationship with Jesus
Showing up in a posture of curiosity and humility when working with the government to meet your city’s needs
Terry expounds on the essential role of partnership in ministry. Reflecting on his 40-year marriage and ministry partnership with Judith, he emphasizes the importance of working together, leveraging each other's strengths, and embracing the challenges of co-leading. Their story is a testament to the power of mutual support and shared vision in building a flourishing ministry that stands the test of time.
Dino and Terry also unpack many principles of Terry’s new book, Loving Samaritans: Radical Kindness in an Us vs. Them World. As a pastor committed to building deep relationships with people whose life experiences are different from his own, Terry believes the church needs to return to loving people unconditionally. He explains how Jesus was the ultimate example as He engaged the Samaritan woman at the well about the most provocative topics of their day in a respectful, kind, considerate, and truthful way.
“Love fills the space between grace and truth.”
He believes we need to stop “othering” people and explores what it means to live faithfully and compassionately.
____________
The Association of Related Churches (ARC) is a cooperative of independent churches from different denominations, networks, and backgrounds who strategically resource church planters and pastors to help them reach people with the message of Jesus.
Since 2000, ARC has helped to plant more than 1,070 churches worldwide. If you have a dream in your heart to start a life-giving church and reach your city with the message of Jesus, ARC is here to come alongside you in the journey. Attending ARC Launch, a church planter training event, is the first step in planting a church with ARC. You will hear from ARC pastors, coaches, and staff as they share the nuts and bolts of church planting. Discover more and register for ARC Launch at https://www.arcchurches.com/launch/.
Don’t Do Ministry Alone - We need relationships to thrive. You need other people in your corner, who have gone through similar things that you’ve gone through, and believe in your dream. ARC provides opportunities for you to build relationships with others in ministry that will support and strengthen you in what God has called you to do. Learn more at https://www.arcchurches.com/connect/.
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