Catching Up With Christians

What does it take to turn a childhood love for video games into a ministry of service and faith? Join us for a captivating conversation with Lee Thomas, the dynamic 28-year-old entrepreneur and co-founder of Kuts for Christ. Lee shares his journey from Galveston to Houston, highlighting how his Nintendo 64 provided a vital escape amidst family challenges. Learn how his passion for gaming and IT work at a Christian media company paved the way for his involvement with Proper Excel, a platform connecting with artists through Christian hip hop. Prepare to be inspired by Lee's testimony of faith, which developed without traditional church guidance, and discover how these experiences drive his mission to serve communities in need.Explore how video games became a lifeline during the tumultuous year of 2020, offering more than just entertainment. Lee sheds light on the unique intersection of faith and gaming, where Christian communities flourished online, providing much-needed fellowship and support. He offers thoughtful advice on balancing gaming and spiritual growth, emphasizing self-control and discernment. Through Lee's insights, we recognize the potential of video games as a powerful tool for emotional, mental, and spiritual benefits, fostering connections and sharing experiences that transcend traditional boundaries.Find out how Cuts for Christ expanded beyond church walls to meet people where they are, providing free haircuts, hygiene kits, and the gospel to underserved communities. Reflect on the delicate balance between serving and sustaining a livelihood, as Lee candidly discusses the challenges of maintaining financial stability in ministry work. Discover the transformative power of intentional service and hear Lee's heartfelt appeal for genuine connections. Celebrate the impact of his Christian hip hop collaborations and exciting future projects, including a potential national outreach tour, all while resonating with the message that every act of kindness can make a world of difference.Support the show

What if the pursuit of personal excellence could also be a journey of faith? Join us as we sit down with Cole Swider, a remarkable basketball player with a story that goes beyond the court. Raised in a basketball-loving family with a strong foundation in faith, Cole opens up about his upbringing in Newport, Rhode Island, and how his parents' values played a pivotal role in his life. From the high-pressure environment of the NBA, where he's played with teams like the Lakers and Heat, Cole shares how he navigates his spiritual path amidst the hustle and bustle of professional sports.As we explore Cole's journey, we delve into the transformative power of using one's platform for faith and inspiration. Cole talks about shifting his motivations from personal success to glorifying a higher purpose, and how this perspective has reshaped both his career and his spiritual walk. By embracing faith as a guiding force, Cole demonstrates the impact of living in alignment with one's beliefs and the courage it takes to advocate for them, even in the face of criticism. His insights encourage us all to consider how our unique talents and platforms can contribute to a better world.Throughout our conversation, we also touch on the significance of genuine relationships and maintaining faith in everyday life. Cole shares heartfelt anecdotes about balancing commitments and the value of authentic connections, illustrating how keeping spiritual practices at the forefront can lead to meaningful and lasting relationships. From navigating the delicate balance between contentment and complacency to the power of prayer and gratitude, Cole's journey serves as a testament to the resilience and hope found in faith. Listen in for a narrative that offers a roadmap to aligning with a higher purpose and embracing the challenges and blessings life presents.Midstream Lighting Inc Proudly sponsored by Midstream Lighting Inc: Cutting-edge, energy-efficient LED solutions!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Isaac's journey is nothing short of a miracle. Living with osteogenesis imperfecta, this young worship leader defied all odds from birth and now inspires many with his unwavering faith and resilience. Tune in as Isaac joins Coach Dan McCarty to share their personal stories of overcoming life's limitations through faith and determination. Together, they provide a powerful testament to how spiritual strength can help break through barriers and lead to profound personal growth.Navigating life in a wheelchair comes with its unique set of challenges, particularly in forming genuine relationships. Our discussion sheds light on the complexities of discerning true intentions from social interactions and highlights the significance of empathy and authenticity. Listen as we recount personal anecdotes that illustrate the importance of forging connections that transcend physical differences, underscoring how trust and sincerity can break down misconceptions and foster fulfilling friendships.Exploring spiritual themes, we reflect on the nuances of prayer, healing, and God's will in the context of disabilities. By sharing personal experiences and biblical stories, we emphasize the importance of being led by the spirit and trusting in God's plan, even when it requires leaving behind familiar passions. Our conversation is a heartfelt reflection on resilience and the transformative power of spiritual trials and victories, illustrating how embracing one's calling can lead to profound spiritual growth and opportunities to glorify God.Follow Isaac on Instagram @isaacimmanuel_  and Tik Tok @iceman_sings !Midstream Lighting Inc Proudly sponsored by Midstream Lighting Inc: Cutting-edge, energy-efficient LED solutions!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

How do you navigate a world where faith and mental health intersect? Join us this week as we uncover the inspiring journey of Amy Oberg, a PhD student in psychology who seamlessly blends her rich background in biblical studies with her passion for mental health advocacy. Amy's transformative path from a women’s pastor to founding the Hope and Health Hub in Kingman, Arizona, is nothing short of remarkable. We reminisce about a pivotal moment from my childhood that she influenced, shining a light on her profound impact on my faith journey.Amy opens up about the complexities and rewards of ministry beyond the traditional church environment. Discover how faith can guide us through rejection and help us grow into leadership roles that extend beyond four walls. We emphasize the importance of serving and leading in everyday life, and Amy shares her wisdom on aligning mind, body, and soul through holistic service. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone seeking to find their purpose and direction in life through faith.In a fascinating exploration of faith and psychology, Amy addresses the historical skepticism towards psychology within the church. Learn about the innovative strategies she employs at the Hope and Health Hub to integrate mental and spiritual health, including practical advice on setting emotional boundaries in care ministries. We also discuss her collaborative project to create mental health journals for Generation Z. Concluding with a heartfelt prayer, this episode is a testament to God's glory in ministry and the transformative power of being active vessels for His work. Don’t miss this enriching conversation with Amy Oberg.You can connect with Amy on Instagram @AmytOberg and at AmyOberg.com. Midstream Lighting Inc Proudly sponsored by Midstream Lighting Inc: Cutting-edge, energy-efficient LED solutions!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Balancing faith, family, and the demands of leading a congregation is no small feat, but Chloe Sagum does it with grace and authenticity. This episode of Catching Up With Christians features Chloe, a worship leader and mother from Las Vegas, who opens up about her journey at Central Church and the unique challenges of raising her son, Duke, who has autism. Chloe’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of relying on God’s strength, especially when life throws unexpected challenges your way. Through her candid reflections, Chloe underscores how faith and trust in God can help manage the complexities of parenting.Chloe dives deep into her personal struggles with societal expectations and the pressure of maintaining a certain image while being true to herself. We discuss how seeking God's approval rather than societal validation can transform every aspect of life, from parenting to worship leading. She also talks about the significance of vulnerability, especially on social media, and how sharing both her triumphs and failures has helped others feel less alone. Chloe’s openness about her journey to be genuine in every facet of life offers listeners a powerful example of authenticity and courage.From her early passion for singing to her role at Central Church, Chloe’s journey in worship leadership is both inspiring and instructive. She shares the joys and challenges of leading worship in a large congregation and the importance of maintaining the right heart posture. We explore how saying 'yes' to God's call, even when it pushes us out of our comfort zones, can have a transformative impact. Chloe also touches on her hobbies, heritage, and the significance of kindness in our daily lives, wrapping up with heartfelt reflections on faith and family. This episode promises to inspire, encourage, and remind you of the beauty of trusting God in every season of life.Midstream Lighting Inc Proudly sponsored by Midstream Lighting Inc: Cutting-edge, energy-efficient LED solutions!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Ever wondered what it takes to transform from a local coach to a major league consultant? Meet Joey, our extraordinary guest who wears many hats—an MLB hitting consultant, CEO, and a devoted servant leader. Joey's journey is nothing short of inspiring, from establishing a top-notch training facility in Las Vegas to coaching athletes of all ages and calibers. Joey's dedication to servant leadership and the profound impact of his faith are central to his success. Learn how he, along with his committed team members like Cody and Taylor, creates an environment that fosters growth and faith.In this episode, we unravel the biblical story of David and its relevance to modern life and business. Discover how Joey draws parallels between David's overlooked beginnings and his own journey, emphasizing that true greatness comes from God. We dive into the importance of supportive relationships, highlighting the contributions of key team members who bring unique skills and unwavering faith to the table. From personal anecdotes to reflective discussions, Joey makes a compelling case for building a business environment rooted in faith and mutual respect.Lastly, we explore the deeper aspects of trusting God's plan and recognizing everything we have as blessings from Him. Joey shares valuable insights on managing worldly attachments, drawing from Michael Todd's teachings and his own experiences. We discuss the significance of spiritual growth and endurance over material success, offering practical ways to integrate faith into daily life and business. Tune in for a powerful episode filled with faith, love, and testimonies that will inspire you to embrace your purpose and trust in God's provision.Midstream Lighting Inc Proudly sponsored by Midstream Lighting Inc: Cutting-edge, energy-efficient LED solutions!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Have you ever considered the profound impact a coach or teacher can have on shaping a life? My sister, Megan Kinkenon, joins me to share her heartfelt experiences in the world of teaching and coaching at Faith Lutheran High School. With humor and earnestness, Megan recounts her transition from instructing high schoolers to captivating third-graders with stories of faith and resilience. Her journey is peppered with moments of athletic triumph and the humor of an unexpected golf career, illustrating her perseverance and the power of a positive attitude.As we peel back the layers of coaching youth sports, I reflect on the unexpected path that led me to discover my own passion for molding young athletes. From the initial side job to the profound realization of its importance, Megan and I discuss the significance of instilling a love for the game and inspiring our players beyond mere technique. We weave through our own career contemplations, agreeing that patience and faith are essential companions as one navigates life's purpose—a narrative I am eager to share with fellow coaches and educators.The conversation doesn't shy away from discussing the courage required to support loved ones through trauma and the value of empathy during such times. Megan's resilience through her own health challenges and our shared family stories offer a reminder of the strength found in understanding and loyalty. As we reminisce about our Kentucky childhood, faith, and the lessons we carry into our work, the message is clear: life's journey is as much about the support we give as the hurdles we overcome. Join us for a dose of inspiration, reflection, and perhaps a spark to ignite your journey through faith, career, and life.Midstream Lighting Inc Proudly sponsored by Midstream Lighting Inc: Cutting-edge, energy-efficient LED solutions!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

When longtime friendships intertwine with the love of baseball and the guiding principles of faith, there emerges a story rich with passion and life lessons. This rings true as I reunite with Chris Salvey, a friend whose dedication to the sport has taken him from the playing fields of Philadelphia to the coaching mounts of Monsignor Bonner High School. Our conversation is a tapestry of personal anecdotes, where Chris reflects on life's pivotal moments and the sustaining power of supportive relationships, while I share my own intertwining journey where faith and a sense of community have been my lighthouses in the storm.Our exchange ventures beyond mere nostalgia, tackling the intricacies of coaching and the profound responsibility it entails. Examining the culture of team sports, we dissect a particular practice that resonated deeply with a young player named Jackson, showcasing the magnitude of impact a coach can have. Together, we dissect the dynamics of guiding a player-led team, embedding life skills alongside baseball techniques, and the delicate art of mentoring athletes to flourish in both their personal and professional spheres.Concluding the episode, we dive into our individual strides through adversity, the solace found in faith during times of loss, and the profound role of gratitude throughout life's journey. I recount my path back to church and the humility in accepting that we need not face challenges alone, while emphasizing the act of surrendering to a higher power. It's a heartfelt dialogue that celebrates growth, faith, and the incredible influence one can have by simply being a positive force within their community. Join us for an enriching session that may just inspire you to reflect on your own path and the people who have illuminated it along the way.Midstream Lighting Inc Proudly sponsored by Midstream Lighting Inc: Cutting-edge, energy-efficient LED solutions!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

As family ties and the love for baseball converge, I had the opportunity to sit down with my new brother-in-law, Mike Kinkenon , and explore how these powerful themes shape our lives. Mike's double duty as a fifth-grade teacher and a baseball coach for the Las Vegas recruits has yielded a treasure trove of experiences, from fostering sportsmanship to inspiring young minds. Our conversation is a heartfelt journey through the shared connections and serendipitous moments that link our families, and it's peppered with stories that celebrate the competitive spirit we cherish in our favorite pastime.Stepping into the shoes of a teacher or coach often means leaving an indelible mark on the lives we touch. This episode peels back the layers of such transitions, revealing the wisdom and responsibility required to balance passion with life's demands. Listeners will get an inside look at the life lessons Mike and I hold dear, such as the guiding principles of keeping faith and family at the forefront. These narratives intertwine, crafting a tapestry of adaptability and lifelong learning that resonates beyond the classroom or the baseball field.The capstone of our discussion is a reflection on living an authentic Christian faith. We examine the practical ways we integrate spirituality into our hectic schedules, touching on the importance of prayer, the recognition of divine timing, and the impact of simple acts of kindness. Wrapping up our episode, I offer a prayer of gratitude and hope that resonates with anyone seeking solace or guidance in their own life's journey. Join us for an inspiring episode that's as much about personal growth as it is about the joys of teaching, coaching, and, of course, baseball.Midstream Lighting Inc Proudly sponsored by Midstream Lighting Inc: Cutting-edge, energy-efficient LED solutions!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Pat O'Malley shares his story, from swinging bats to opening up about the struggles we all face off the field, sets the backdrop for a conversation that moves beyond the scoreboard. Our dialogue takes a deep look into the world of coaching, mental health in sports, and the unshakable power of faith. We reminisce, laugh, and even dive into some of life's tougher questions, all through the lens of servant leadership and the resilience learned through the game of baseball.Throughout the episode, we peel back the layers of what it means to be a coach and an athlete in today's complex world, where the mental game is just as important as physical prowess. From heartfelt personal stories to the shared experiences of those we've encountered, it becomes clear that authentic relationships are the bedrock of not only success on the field but also in life's grander journey. Pat's insights illuminate how simple acts of kindness and a true understanding of one another can have a ripple effect, touching lives in ways we might never fully comprehend.Finally, we broach the delicate balance of faith and mental health, acknowledging the pressures that men in particular face to appear unbreakable. Pat opens up about his faith journey and the importance of embracing all forms of help—from therapy to medication—as gifts in our pursuit of mental health. We cap off our time together with a nod to the importance of being present for one another and a prayer for those in need, leaving our listeners with a sense of hope and the knowledge that no one has to navigate the challenges of life alone.Midstream Lighting Inc Proudly sponsored by Midstream Lighting Inc: Cutting-edge, energy-efficient LED solutions!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

In this episode, host Dan McCarty interviews Landon Hutchison, a college baseball coach, about his coaching journey and the impact of faith on his coaching style. Landon shares his background and how he got into coaching, as well as his goals for the program he currently coaches. He emphasizes the importance of building relationships beyond baseball and creating a supportive team culture. Landon also discusses how his faith has influenced his coaching style and beliefs, and shares his experiences of balancing faith and coaching as a full-time coach. The episode concludes with a discussion on being bold in faith as a coach. In this conversation, Landon Hutchison discusses his experiences with religion, the impact of the ABCA convention, his hobbies outside of coaching, and the role of faith in his life. He shares personal stories of tragedy and how they led him to strengthen his faith. The conversation emphasizes the importance of making a positive impact on others and finding gratitude in every season of life.Midstream Lighting Inc Proudly sponsored by Midstream Lighting Inc: Cutting-edge, energy-efficient LED solutions!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show