Hey, Listen

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz have a conversation about a full year of Hey, Listen — reflecting on what God has been doing at Ridgecrest along the way. They discuss how a shift in church atmosphere has made a real difference, where quiet growth through discipleship is showing up in unexpected ways, and what intentional hospitality really looks like from the parking lot to the pew. Plus, a look ahead at what's coming in Season 2!

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz finish our mini-series on the Bible with this conversation about Bible translations. They break down why so many translations exist, the different philosophies behind them, and how to choose one that works for you. Kayla also shares her favorite Bible recommendations for kids at every stage, and the conversation turns to why Biblical literacy matters more than ever in today's culture. Resources Mentioned this Episode:The Very Good News Story BibleJesus Story Book BibleThe Beginners Gospel Story BibleThe Gospel Story BibleThe Read to Me BibleExplorer Bible for Kids

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz begin a two-part mini-series with this conversation about how we got the Bible. From how Scripture was physically written and copied in the ancient world, to how certain books made it into the canon, to whether the Bible has changed over time — they explore the remarkable story behind the book so many take for granted.Resources Mentioned this Episode:History of Early Christianity, Codex SinaiticusUniversity of Michigan Online Library, The New TestamentPrinceton Byzantine Studies Databases"Myths and Mistakes in New Testament Textual Criticism" by Elijah Hixson & Peter J. Gurry"Introduction to New Testament Textual Criticism" by J. Harold Greenlee"The Text of the New Testament: Its Transmission, Corruption, and Restoration" by Bruce Metzger

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz finish our conversation about faith "deconstruction" by looking at the warning signs of unhealthy deconstruction and the core truths that keep us anchored. They dig into what it looks like when feelings override truth, when community gets replaced by isolation, and why questioning Scripture's authority is often the first step away from faith. They close with a hopeful idea: what if instead of deconstructing, we just renovated?

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz begin a conversation about faith "deconstruction" — what it really is, where it comes from, and how to tell the difference between healthy questioning and a faith that's unraveling. They explore how church hurt, untested traditions, and unaddressed doubt can push people away, and why giving space for hard questions matters so much. Plus, why the answer to deconstruction might just come down to discipleship.

n this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz have a conversation about parenting with purpose. They dig into what child dedication really is — and isn't — and why the commitment made in that moment needs to carry through all the years ahead. They explore the temptation to let activities crowd out faith, the power of long-view intentional parenting, and what it looks like for the whole church to come alongside families for the journey.Resources Mentioned this Episode:“Parenting with Scripture: A Topical Guide for Teachable Moments” by Kara G. Durbin“Praying the Scriptures for Your Children” by Jodie BerndtLifeWay Levels of Biblical Learning

In this episode, Pastor Jeremy Muniz sits down with Austin Gober, Ridgecrest's College Pastor, to talk about reaching the next generation on campus. They explore what organic, long-term discipleship looks like in practice, why apologetics matters so much for today's college students, and how different campus environments shape the way ministry is done. They also dig into the role of AI as a ministry tool — and why discernment, not fear, is the right response.

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat sits down with Rose Suvino, an Admin Assistant at Ridgecrest, for a warm and honest staff spotlight. Rose shares how God has carried her through seasons of loss and joy, her heart for connecting people to community, and what she's learned about walking alongside people who are hurting. Whether you've experienced loss or just want to care for someone who has, Rose's perspective is a gift.

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz go deeper on spiritual disciplines — exploring the full list Donald Whitney outlines, why these habits aren't just personal add-ons but the very thing that keeps us from drifting, and how a life saturated in Scripture and prayer shapes us into people who actually look and weep like Jesus.--Resources Mentioned this Episode:"Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life" by Donald S. Whitney"Dynamics of Spiritual Life: An Evangelical Theology of Renewal" by Richard Lovelace

n this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz discuss the power of small, daily spiritual habits — why we tend to underestimate them, how seasons of life reshape what they look like, and why the people around us matter more than we think when it comes to spiritual growth.Resources Mentioned this Episode:"Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life" by Donald S. Whitney"Dynamics of Spiritual Life: An Evangelical Theology of Renewal" by Richard Lovelace

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat sits down with Kelsey Palomino, Ridgecrest's Missions Mobilization Minister, to talk about the church's partnership in the Makhoaba Valley in Lesotho — what makes it unique, how Ridgecrest got there, and how the whole church can be a part of what God is doing, even from home.Resources Mentioned this Episode:Daily Lesotho Prayer Text – Email Kelsey ([email protected]) to join

In this episode, Pastor Jeremy Muniz sits down with NextGen Intern, Tristen Thomas, to talk about his faith journey, the call to ministry, and what it looks like to say "yes" to God's leading. They discuss how the church can invest in young leaders, the value of finding godly mentors, and why taking every opportunity to serve, teach, and grow matters for those sensing a call to vocational ministry.

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz have a conversation about navigating life when God's plan looks different from our own. They explore how pride can make it hard to hear His voice clearly, why staying in the Word and prayer is essential, and how community and discipleship help us discern His will. They also reflect on what it means to trust that closed doors are purposeful — even when it's hard in the moment.

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz explore the importance of Easter and why the resurrection of Jesus Christ is the defining distinctive of the Christian faith. They discuss how resurrection hope differs from other views of life after death, what that hope means for everyday believers, and why every Sunday carries resurrection significance. They also share practical ways to invite people to church and give a preview of what Ridgecrest has planned for Easter.----Resources Mentioned this Episode:- "Darkest Night, Brightest Day" by Marty Machowski and Phil Schorr

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz continue their conversation about Calvinism, exploring why this topic stirs such strong emotions among believers. They discuss how Reformed theology shapes everyday Christian life, address common misconceptions about evangelism and missions, and unpack what it means to hold these views with charity and humility. They also offer a crash course on Reformed Baptist theology and share practical resources for anyone wanting to study further.

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz begin a conversation about Calvinism. They discuss the historical background of Calvin and Arminius, explore the five points of Calvinism including total depravity and unconditional election, and address the differences between reformed and Armenian theological perspectives. They also emphasize the importance of letting Scripture speak rather than becoming divisive over theological systems.

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Dr. Robert Varner have a conversation about NextGen ministry and raising kids in faith. They discuss challenges of isolation, the importance of Biblical community, and how marriage displays the Gospel. They also explore practical ways parents can show Christ's love through authentic relationship, reconciliation, and making church a foundational part of family life.

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Claire Dailey have a conversation about missions and following God's call. They discuss Claire's experience serving in Lesotho, how God works in the hearts of those eager to hear the gospel, and the courage that grows from sharing faith across cultures. They also explore how mission experiences shape our witness at home and encourage young people to say "yes" to God's leading both locally and globally.

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz have a conversation about what faithfulness looks like in ordinary life. They discuss the difference between cultural ideas of impact and Biblical faithfulness, finding God's presence in everyday tasks, and maintaining integrity when no one's watching. They explore how to worship through mundane responsibilities, the danger of always seeking spectacular moments, and how God sees and values faithfulness even when it feels unnoticed or unrewarded by others.----Resources Mentioned this Episode:- "The Practice of the Presence of God" by Brother Lawrence

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat sits down with Sara Wescoat, Ridgecrest's Missions Associate, to have a conversation about what it means to live on mission. They discuss Sara's journey from serving as an IMB journeyman overseas to working in secular environments and now supporting global missions in a local church. They explore how God uses faithful servants in every season, how to serve Him both abroad and at home, and what it looks like to keep Christ at the forefront wherever you are.

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz have a conversation about the difference between busyness and fruitfulness. They discuss finding the right rhythm in spiritual life, how activity-driven schedules can lead to exhaustion and spiritual dryness, and the importance of Sabbath and rest. They explore the biblical concept of abiding in Christ versus simply accomplishing tasks, and share practical insights for moving from mechanical productivity to organic spiritual fruitfulness.

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz have a conversation about biblical worldview and how Scripture shapes the way we see the world. They discuss the importance of being in Scripture regularly, how the Bible's narrative reforms our perspective on people, suffering, and truth, and share practical tips for developing consistent rhythms of reading God's Word to guide daily decisions and deepen faith.----Resources Mentioned this Episode:- "America's Book: The Rise and Decline of a Bible Civilization, 1794-1911" by Mark A. Noll

Happy New Year! In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz have a conversation about what it means to be the Church beyond Sunday morning gatherings. They discuss moving from church attendance to everyday mission, exploring how small groups, hospitality, and service express the Church throughout the week. They also address shifting from consumers of faith to contributors in mission and how families can participate in the Church's calling during their daily lives.

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz conclude our Christmas sermon and podcast series with this conversation on the Gospel foundations found in Matthew's nativity story. They discuss how Jesus represents a new creation, the difference between knowing about Jesus versus knowing Him personally, and why worship should extend beyond Sunday mornings. They also explore how Christmas reveals essential Gospel truths that point toward the cross and resurrection.

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz continue looking at our Christmas sermon series with this conversation about the wise men in Matthew's Christmas story. They discuss what true wisdom looks like compared to worldly power and religious knowledge, how the magi's journey reveals authentic faith in seeking Jesus, and why Christmas represents the birth of the gospel itself, offering an opportunity to share hope and salvation with the world.

In this episode, Colby Corcoran and Pastor Jeremy Muniz continue their deep dive into Matthew's Christmas narrative, focusing on what Mary and Joseph saw when Jesus was born. They explore how Matthew emphasizes different aspects of their stories—Mary's obedience and the Holy Spirit's role in salvation, and Joseph's willingness to follow God's direction even when it defied logic. Pastor Jeremy shares a personal story about how a dream redirected his entire life, and challenges listeners to consider: Are you open to God's dream for your life, even if it contradicts your own plans?

In this episode, Colby Corcoran and Pastor Jeremy Muniz kick off a new Christmas series exploring Matthew's Gospel and diving deeper into Pastor Jeremy's Sunday sermons. They discuss what makes Matthew's witness unique—his focus on Joseph's perspective, his audience of Pharisees and Scribes, and the sophisticated theological argument he builds using Old Testament prophecy. Why did Matthew tell the Christmas story so differently from Luke? And what exactly was he trying to prove?

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat welcomes our very first guest to the podcast! She and Jake Johnson have a conversation about what Christmas really looks like in busy families. They explore how to slow down Christmas morning, manage the expectations and busyness of the season, and keep Christ at the center of celebrations. They encourage parents to be intentional about what they say "yes" to and to start with just one small step toward a more meaningful Christmas.----Recommended Christmas Resources:Loving Your Actual Christmas by Alexandra KuykendallThe Way to the Manger: A Family Advent Devotional by Jeff and Abbey Land2025 Advent Collection by The Daily Grace Co.Christmas & Advent Resources from Tiny TheologiansThe Book of Jesus by Calvin MillerHosanna in Excelsis by David and Barbara Leeman

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz continue their conversation about revival by exploring what genuine spiritual awakening looks like in everyday life. They discuss Billy Graham's evangelistic legacy, the difference between experiencing Jesus versus simply attending church, and how personal renewal must precede public revival. They also address why traditional revival services may not work in modern contexts, celebrate recent ministry callings at Ridgecrest, and emphasize that revival is ultimately the work of the Holy Spirit rather than something we can manufacture through our own efforts. ----  Resources Mentioned this Episode: Pentecost – Today? by Iain H. Murray Revival and Revivalism by Iain H. Murray

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz begin a conversation about revival and what it truly means for the church today. They discuss the difference between genuine revival and manufactured revivalism, how revival often begins with young people, and why discipleship may be preparing the current generation for something significant. They also explore historical revivals, the danger of trying to force spiritual movement, and the importance of longing for God's presence while remaining biblically grounded. ----  Resources Mentioned this Episode: Pentecost – Today? by Iain H. Murray Revival and Revivalism by Iain H. Murray

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz conclude our mini-series on intelligent design with a conversation about the odds of life happening by accident. They discuss why the chances of complex life forming randomly are incredibly unlikely, using everyday examples like cooking breakfast and treasure hunting to show the difference between chance and purposeful design. They explore how modern science keeps discovering more evidence that points toward an intentional Creator. ----  Resources Mentioned this Episode: Axe, Douglas. Undeniable: How Biology Confirms our Intuition That Life is Designed. New York: Harper One, 2017.Guillen, Michael. Believing is Seeing. Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale, 2017.Meyer, Stephen C. Return of the God Hypothesis: Three Scientific Discoveries that Reveal the Mind Behind the Universe. New York: Harper One, 2021.

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz continue our mini-series on intelligent design with a conversation about the hidden complexity in everyday organisms like pond scum. They discuss how even the simplest living things reveal incredible design when scientists look closely at how cells work. They also explore why parents should help their children think through different worldviews about creation while building confidence in both faith and science. ----  Resources Mentioned this Episode: ⁠Axe, Douglas. Undeniable: How Biology Confirms our Intuition That Life is Designed. New York: Harper One, 2017. ⁠⁠Guillen, Michael. Believing is Seeing. Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale, 2017.⁠⁠Meyer, Stephen C. Return of the God Hypothesis: Three Scientific Discoveries that Reveal the Mind Behind the Universe. New York: Harper One, 2021.

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz continue our mini-series on intelligent design with this conversation about how quantum physics is reshaping our understanding of science. They discuss how quantum discoveries challenge traditional physics and reveal paradoxes that mirror biblical truths, exploring the difference between materialism and scientism. They examine how scientific advancement often creates more questions than answers and consider how quantum physics demonstrates that science neither proves nor contradicts faith, while addressing the importance of intellectual honesty in scientific inquiry. ----  Resources Mentioned this Episode: Axe, Douglas. Undeniable: How Biology Confirms our Intuition That Life is Designed. New York: Harper One, 2017. Guillen, Michael. Believing is Seeing. Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale, 2017.Meyer, Stephen C. Return of the God Hypothesis: Three Scientific Discoveries that Reveal the Mind Behind the Universe. New York: Harper One, 2021.

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz begin a mini-series about whether science and intelligent design are compatible. They discuss how the historical foundations of science were built on the belief that nature has an intelligible order, exploring how monotheism actually launched scientific inquiry. They examine the differences between creationist and intelligent design approaches, addressing Darwin's evolutionary theory and its limitations in explaining the origin of complex genetic information rather than just species survival. ----  Resources Mentioned this Episode: Axe, Douglas. Undeniable: How Biology Confirms our Intuition That Life is Designed. New York: Harper One, 2017. Guillen, Michael. Believing is Seeing. Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale, 2017. Meyer, Stephen C. Return of the God Hypothesis: Three Scientific Discoveries that Reveal the Mind Behind the Universe. New York: Harper One, 2021.

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz begin a conversation about what it means to be a Southern Baptist. They discuss their childhood memories growing up in Southern Baptist churches, the advantages of the cooperative program for supporting missionaries worldwide, and how autonomous churches work together for Great Commission purposes. They also address some challenges within the denomination while exploring the unique strengths of being a Southern Baptist church.

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz explore the struggles of self-worth and doubts about God’s work in our lives. From childhood comparisons to adult insecurities, they discuss how these feelings often persist across ages and seasons. Along with sharing practical advice, the conversation centers on the Biblical truth of sanctification—God’s ongoing process of shaping us into the image of Christ—and emphasizes that our value is rooted in belonging to Him, not in our achievements. 

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz tackle a common struggle among Christians: doubting your salvation. They discuss why these questions arise for both kids and adults, highlight how emotions can cloud our confidence, and ultimately share how Scripture points us to the assurance found in Jesus’ finished work. Along with practical advice for addressing doubts, they close with an encouragement to let God’s Word define your security, not your feelings. 

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz open up about childhood fears and how those feelings often follow us into adulthood. Drawing from Scripture, they explore how God’s presence offers comfort in the midst of anxiety and uncertainty, and they share practical ways to process fear in everyday life.

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz discuss the ongoing impact of the war in Ukraine and Ridgecrest Baptist Church’s efforts to support Ukrainian nationals, including fundraising, direct assistance, and advocacy for continued residency in the U.S. They share possible action steps for how to get involved as well as tips for parents on how to have hard conversations, like this, with their kids. ----  Resources Mentioned this Episode: Support our Ukrainian Neighbors Parenting Guide: Difficult Current Events https://womenofwelcome.com/ https://worldrelief.org/ 

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz build on our previous conversation about finding your role in the church and turn the focus to sharing your faith in today’s culture. They discuss why evangelism can feel challenging and they highlight Jesus’ example of a relational, story-driven approach with practical advice for listening well and sharing your own story in everyday life. ----  Resources Mentioned this Episode: “Gentle and Lowly” by Dane Ortlund

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz begin a conversation about what it means to find your place in the church community. Drawing on 1 Corinthians 12 and Ephesians 4, they discuss God’s design for every believer, practical steps for identifying your unique gifts, common obstacles like comparison, busyness, and insecurity, and they offer encouragement for taking the next step.  ----  Resources Mentioned this Episode:  LifeWay Spiritual Gifts AssessmentSHAPE Test

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz conclude our three-part conversation on Winnie the Pooh and what we as Christians can learn from these beloved children’s stories and characters. In Part 3, they discuss how the stories of Pooh and his friends can teach us about real community, the value of friendship, the importance of slowing down to enjoy life’s simple joys, and more. 

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz continue our three-part conversation on the gospel according to Winnie the Pooh. Part 2 focuses on each character: from Piglet’s growth and Owl’s wisdom to Eeyore’s realism and Tigger’s boundless energy, they explore what each friend brings to the Hundred Acre Wood—and what we can learn from them about life, faith, and friendship.

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz begin a three-part conversation on Winnie the Pooh and what we as Christians can learn from these beloved children’s stories and characters. Part 1 explores what it means to have childlike faith, embrace our individual strengths and limits, and find contentment in simplicity!

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz return to, and conclude, our three-part conversation on how to study the Bible without getting overwhelmed. Part 3 focuses on the real-life challenges and joys of building faith at home. Discover practical ways to weave faith into your family’s daily routines, help your kids engage with a diverse world, and approach tough conversations with confidence!  ----  Resources Mentioned this Episode: “Parenting with Scripture: A Topical Guide for Teachable Moments” by Kara G. Durbin“Praying the Scriptures for Your Children” by Jodie Berndt Lifeway Research Article“The Attributes of God for Kids” by Lydia White

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz wrap up our four-part conversation on technology and how we should approach it as Christians. Part 4 focuses on technology's role in discipleship, the impact of technology on worship, building healthy digital habits, and more! ---- Unmentioned Resources We Want to Highlight: ⁠"The Pour Over"⁠ Christian Email Newsletter ⁠"Decaf"⁠ Christian Family Email Newsletter

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz resume our four-part conversation on technology and how we should approach it as Christians. Part 3 focuses on the impact of technology on attention spans, challenges of connection and engagement, navigating relationships in a digital world, and more!---- Unmentioned Resources We Want to Highlight: ⁠"The Pour Over"⁠ Christian Email Newsletter ⁠"Decaf"⁠ Christian Family Email Newsletter 

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz continue our three-part conversation on how to study the Bible without getting overwhelmed. Part 2 focuses on how to go deeper (without needing a seminary degree), resources to help you do so, and more!  ----  Resources Mentioned this Episode: Tyndale Old Testament Commentary (Multi-volume)Tyndale New Testament Commentary (Multi-volume)“Evangelical Dictionary of Theology” edited by Walter A. Elwell ---- Other Resources We Want to Highlight: Expositor’s Bible Commentary (Multi-volume)“A New Testament Biblical Theology: The Unfolding of the Old Testament in the New” by G.K. Beale“Commentary on the New Testament use of the Old Testament” by G.K. Beale & D.A. Carson

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz begin a three-part conversation on how to study the Bible without getting overwhelmed. Part 1 focuses on where to start reading when you’re unsure, what Bible study looks like for pastors, helpful resources you can use, and more!  ----  Resources Mentioned this Episode: “Misreading Scripture with Western Eyes” by E. Randolph Richards and Brandon J. O'BrienBlue Letter Bible SoftwareBible App  Desiring God Website  Martin Lloyd-Jones Sermon ArchivesLogos Bible SoftwareESV Study Bible---- Other Resources We Want to Highlight: STEP Bible Website “How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth” by Gordon D. Fee & Douglas Stuart “Exegetical Gems from Biblical Greek: A Refreshing Guide to Grammar and Interpretation” by Benjamin L. Merkle

In this episode, Kayla Wescoat and Pastor Jeremy Muniz continue our four-part conversation on technology and how we should approach it as Christians. Part 2 focuses on finding truth, how digital distraction shapes both us and our relationships, and more! ----  Resources Mentioned this Episode: ⁠ "Amusing Ourselves to Death: Public Discourse in the Age of Show Business"⁠ by Neil Postman---- Other Resources We Want to Highlight: ⁠"Scrolling Ourselves to Death: Reclaiming Life in a Digital Age"⁠ by Brett McCracken and Ivan Mesa