#119: From the Classroom to the Pulpit

This week, Tony is joined by co-host and guest Pastor Ethan Wall. From growing up in a small town to nearly pursuing film scoring, to teaching high school before stepping into full-time ministry, Ethan shares his journey of following God’s call in unexpected ways. We talk about what it’s like to wrestle with career paths, the challenges of teaching, the tug of church planting, and the joy (and cost) of building something from the ground up. Plus, plenty of laughs, side stories, and a little Seahawks football at the end. Whether you’re a pastor, volunteer, or just figuring out what God’s calling looks like in your own life, Ethan’s story will encourage you to step out in faith.0:00 – Welcome & intros: Tony + Ethan1:06 – Does anyone on staff actually listen to the podcast?1:24 – Shoutout to Anderson Lawn Care & building noise2:18 – Ethan’s background: small town kid, NU, almost Hans Zimmer4:08 – First real encounter with the Holy Spirit5:05 – Marriage, family, and call to ministry6:43 – When did you first feel called?8:13 – Affirmation from mentors and first sermon at NU9:22 – Wrestling with career choices & pursuing ministry10:06 – Working at Northwest & teaching piano lessons12:19 – Door opens to teaching at Cedar Park14:49 – Teaching PE, Bible, and English—what it was like16:33 – The weight of teaching and ministering to students18:03 – Marriage + the church plant announcement20:33 – Why choose a church plant over a big church?22:00 – How Ethan and Erica knew God was calling them to Seattle24:04 – Building something new together25:27 – The growth of Venture Seattle & needing staff26:17 – Hungry, humble, teachable: why Ethan was hired27:18 – Skipping youth ministry and pastoring adults28:30 – Transitioning from teaching to full-time ministry29:50 – Energy difference when you’re operating in your calling31:22 – The “fun phase” of being associate pastor32:16 – Rapid-fire: what are you reading, listening to, doing for fun?34:06 – Movie buff confessions & Back to the Future love35:19 – Seahawks record predictions36:02 – How to pray for Ethan + needs at Venture Seattle36:45 – Shoutouts & outro