Pastors Unfiltered

In this episode of Pastors Unfiltered, Pastor Tony and Pastor Brandon are back together and joined by special guest Tanner Ming. Tanner shares the story behind his call to plant a church in Orlando, what it was like stepping away from the church he grew up in, and how God began forming a vision for a church centered around biblical hospitality. From navigating family, transition, obedience, and calling, this conversation gives an honest look at what it means to follow God when the next step is both exciting and uncomfortable. They also talk about church planting, building a team, creating a welcoming home for people far from family, and the heart behind The Abode Church—a church that exists to welcome people home into a life-changing relationship with Jesus. Plus, as always, there’s plenty of banter about Network Conference, Survivor, sports, and everything in between.

In this episode of Pastors Unfiltered, Pastor Brandon hosts solo while Pastor Tony is away at Network Conference, and he is joined by returning guest Heather Taylor for an honest conversation about mental health, anxiety, and the unique challenges of living in the Pacific Northwest. After recapping the recent Stressed sermon series, Pastor Brandon and Heather talk about why anxiety and mental health struggles are so common in our region, how weather, sleep, caffeine, finances, social media, and isolation can all play a role, and why community matters more than we realize. Heather also shares practical insight from her work as a therapist, including simple ways to support your mental health, the importance of naming what you’re carrying, and how spiritual health connects with emotional and physical health. This conversation is honest, practical, and full of encouragement for anyone learning how to navigate anxiety, stress, and the rhythms of life in a healthier way.

In this episode of Pastors Unfiltered, Pastor Tony and Pastor Brandon sit down with YoYo Garcia, a U.S. missionary with Youth Alive, to talk about reaching the next generation where they are—on their school campuses. From launching over 170 campus clubs across Washington and Idaho to seeing students step into bold faith, this conversation dives into what it really looks like to empower students to share the gospel. They also unpack the reality of mental health in Gen Z, personal stories of overcoming anxiety, and why community, discipleship, and the local church matter now more than ever. This is an honest, fun, and powerful conversation about the future of the church—and why it starts with students. ⏱️ Timestamps 0:00 – Intro + Welcome to Pastors Unfiltered0:30 – Catching Up + Vacation Stories2:00 – Church Culture + Life Updates3:00 – AI, Tech, and Job Market Shifts4:00 – Pop Culture Talk: Survivor Recap11:45 – Introducing YoYo Garcia12:30 – First Impressions + Podcast Conversation13:00 – Youth Alive + Ministry Background15:00 – Moving to Seattle + Following the Call17:00 – What Is Youth Alive?18:00 – Launching 170+ Campus Clubs20:00 – The Vision: Reaching Students on Campus21:30 – Why This Generation Needs the Gospel23:00 – Adjusting to Seattle + Culture Differences 🔥 Key Conversation 32:50 – The Mission: 300 Campus Missionaries33:30 – Vision for Culture Change in Schools34:00 – Mental Health Stats in the Northwest35:30 – Why Anxiety Is So High in Gen Z36:00 – Personal Story: Struggling with Mental Health36:30 – The Turning Point: Community + Accountability37:00 – The Role of Therapy + Faith 🙌 Ministry & Discipleship 37:30 – Student-Led, Church-Fed Model38:30 – Why the Local Church Matters39:30 – How Youth Pastors Can Get Involved40:30 – Reaching Small Churches + Rural Areas 🎉 Fun + Closing 41:00 – Social Media + Meme Culture45:00 – Ministry Support + Fundraising Reality49:00 – Church Growth + Kingdom Impact51:00 – What YoYo Is Reading, Listening To, Watching58:50 – Final Thoughts + Encouragement

In this special collaboration episode of Pastors Unfiltered and Kingdom Builders, we dive into the heart behind the Light Bearers Project—a powerful initiative focused on discipling the next generation. This isn’t just about redesigning a kids space. It’s about creating an intentional environment where kids discover who they are in Christ and learn to carry His light into the world. Hear from the team behind the vision as they unpack the meaning of “Light Bearers,” the strategy behind the new kids environment, and how this project is impacting both our local church and communities around the world. From Mill Creek to the Dominican Republic, this is about bringing light everywhere.

In this week’s episode of Pastors Unfiltered, Pastor Tony and Pastor Brandon recap an incredible Easter weekend across all Venture campuses. From record attendance to powerful moments of life change, it was a weekend to celebrate—but the real question is: what happens next? This conversation dives into the importance of follow-up after Easter, why numbers aren’t the true measure of success, and how churches can steward the people God brings through their doors. Plus, a behind-the-scenes look at everything from losing your voice mid-sermon to what it really takes to pull off Easter weekend.

In this week’s episode of Pastors Unfiltered, we sit down with Rabbi Matt for a powerful and honest conversation during Holy Week. From the meaning of Passover to the deeper context behind communion, this episode explores what many believers may be missing when it comes to understanding the Jewish roots of our faith. We talk about how context shapes everything, why translation matters, and how easily meaning can be lost over time. This conversation also dives into identity, culture, and what it looks like to live in the tension of being misunderstood. Whether you’re new to these ideas or have been walking with Jesus for years, this episode will challenge you to see Scripture—and your faith—in a deeper way.

In this week’s episode of Pastors Unfiltered, Tony Matar and Dr. Brandon Beals wrap up their series on the life of Solomon with honest reflections, key takeaways, and practical application. Solomon’s story is one of wisdom, success, and blessing—but also slow drift. What started as devotion turned into compromise, showing how even good things like success and pleasure can become dangerous when they take God’s place. This conversation dives into the reality of drifting, the importance of surrounding yourself with wise counsel, and the difference between Solomon and David—repentance. No matter where you find yourself, God is still calling you back. The question is: will you listen?

In this week’s episode of Pastors Unfiltered, Tony Matar is joined by special guests Rachel and Claire, for a real and honest conversation about friendships, relationships, and how life seasons shape the people around us. From navigating friendships after college to the shifts that come with marriage, this episode dives into what it actually looks like to build meaningful relationships in your 20s and beyond. They unpack the tension between wanting deep, intentional friendships while also balancing different life stages, expectations, and priorities.

In this episode of Pastors Unfiltered, Pastor Brandon sits down with therapist Ann Hopkins for an honest and powerful conversation about grief, loss, and healing. Ann shares the deeply personal story of losing her son Alex in a tragic accident and how faith, community, and purpose helped her and her family navigate unimaginable loss. Together they discuss how people process grief differently, why it’s important to allow yourself to feel, and how faith can shape the way we walk through life’s hardest moments. This episode offers encouragement for anyone who has experienced loss or is supporting someone who is grieving. Listen as they talk about grief, healing, community, and how God can bring meaning even through painful circumstances.

In this episode of Pastors Unfiltered, Pastor Tony Matar and Pastor Brandon Beals sit down with Dalton Beaty, youth and young adults pastor at Eastridge Church. Dalton shares his journey from Florida to Seattle, stepping into ministry leadership at a young age, and what he’s seeing in the next generation today. The conversation covers youth ministry trends, discipleship, Gen Z culture, and why many students today are actually craving biblical truth more than ever. They also dive into ministry leadership, the importance of longevity in church leadership, and what it looks like to faithfully follow God’s call even when it means stepping far outside your comfort zone. Along the way, the guys talk about baseball, Survivor, church culture, and a few laughs about life in ministry.

In this episode of Pastors Unfiltered, Brandon and Tony dive deep into the life of Solomon and the dangerous reality of spiritual drift. Why do so many leaders fall later in life? Is influence a blessing—or a test? And what roadblocks should we be building in our lives to protect our legacy? This conversation covers pride, accountability, obedience, influence, and the subtle compromises that can quietly derail even the wisest leaders. If you’re a leader, pastor, business owner—or just someone who wants to finish well—this one is for you.

In this episode of Pastors Unfiltered, Pastor Tony sits down with Audrey to talk about obedience, calling, discipleship, and what God can do when you simply say yes. From growing up in the church to choosing the internship path over the “expected” college route, Audrey shares how God planted roots in her faith and used obedience to shape her leadership. The conversation dives into Gen Z and what they’re really looking for in church, why depth matters more than hype, and how discipleship can change the trajectory of a life. They also talk about mentorship, staying when it would be easier to leave, discovering your passions, and trusting God even when you don’t have a five-year plan figured out. Plus, a little Arsenal banter and an unexpected MrBeast discussion. If you’ve ever wondered what you’re called to do, how to grow deeper in your faith, or how to disciple the next generation, this episode is for you. 

n this powerful episode of Pastors Unfiltered, Pastor Brandon and Pastor Tony sit down with Parker Tennant to talk about faith in the middle of suffering. Almost one year ago, Parker survived a devastating head-on collision caused by a drunk driver. She broke multiple bones, endured five surgeries, and spent months in hospitals and rehab. But through it all, she chose joy over bitterness and faith over fear. In this honest conversation, Parker shares what it was like to wake up after the accident, navigate physical pain and recovery, wrestle with emotions, and rely on Jesus when everything felt uncertain. She also talks about forgiveness, choosing to speak life instead of anger, and how the church community surrounded her family during one of the hardest seasons of her life. This episode is a real and raw reminder that faith is proven in the fire — and that Jesus is faithful even in our darkest moments. 🎧 Available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.

In this episode of Pastors Unfiltered, Pastor Brandon Beals and Pastor Tony Matar dive into an honest, wide-ranging conversation about leadership, integrity, influence, and what it really means to stay faithful over the long haul. They talk openly about celebrity culture in the church, the pressure of platform, discerning God-given opportunities versus distractions, and why slow, steady faithfulness matters more than hype or popularity. Drawing from decades of ministry experience, Brandon and Tony reflect on lessons learned, mistakes avoided, and the importance of keeping Jesus as the hero — not pastors, speakers, or personalities. This episode also touches on ministry burnout, saying no to good opportunities, stewarding influence well, and why finishing well matters more than starting strong.

This week on Pastors Unfiltered, Pastor Brandon sits down with Jeremy Johnson, the newly appointed President of Northwest University, for an honest and insightful conversation about leadership, calling, Christian education, and the future of Northwest in the Pacific Northwest. They talk about Jeremy’s journey from pastoring to higher education, the challenges and opportunities facing Christian universities today, and why this season of life is so formative for students. This episode is full of vision, humor, and practical wisdom for pastors, leaders, parents, and anyone passionate about raising up the next generation.

In this episode of Pastors Unfiltered, Pastor Brandon Beals and Pastor Tony Matar are back together for a wide-ranging, honest conversation to start the year. They catch up on life, birthdays, recovery from surgery, and what it’s like living in the public eye as pastors. The conversation naturally moves into deeper topics like integrity in leadership, celebrity culture in the church, faithfulness over fame, and why Jesus — not pastors — must always remain the hero of the story. Brandon and Tony also reflect on longevity in ministry, the danger of reading your own press clippings, learning to laugh at yourself, and staying grounded in calling rather than popularity. With humor, transparency, and wisdom, this episode reminds us why faithfulness, humility, and obedience matter far more than platform or influence. This is a thoughtful, funny, and timely conversation about leadership, calling, and keeping Jesus at the center.

This week on Pastors Unfiltered, Pastor Morgan and Pastor Jonathan step in for an honest and fun conversation while Pastor Brandon recovers and Pastor Tony is on campus. They talk about church expansion, family, kids ministry, calling, obedience, and why investing in the next generation matters more than ever. If you’ve ever wondered what really goes on behind the scenes of ministry this episode is for you.Listen now on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.00:00 Intro and surprise hosts01:18 Where Pastor Brandon and Pastor Tony are03:05 Church expansion and what’s coming next06:30 Life, family, and moving to the PNW19:00 Heart behind kids ministry23:00 Parenting, discipleship, and everyday faith30:30 The LIGHT values for Venture Kids35:00 How God called Jonathan into kids ministry38:00 Why serving in kids ministry matters40:30 Closing thoughts and encouragement

In this episode of Pastors Unfiltered, Johnny White sits down with Pastor Tony Matar for an honest and wide-ranging conversation about ministry, leadership, youth pastoring, and the current climate of the Church. Tony shares his personal journey from getting saved, stepping into youth ministry, navigating seasons of growth and transition, and eventually sensing God’s leading into a new chapter of ministry. Together, they talk about raising the next generation, discipleship over platforms, evangelism in everyday life, and what it looks like to lead with empathy, humility, and faithfulness. They also explore larger themes facing the Church today including Gen Z, spiritual hunger, consumer Christianity, excellence versus perfection, and why connection and discipleship matter more than ever. This episode is full of stories, wisdom, laughter, and a hopeful perspective on what God is doing right now. ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to Pastors Unfiltered00:28 – Introducing Johnny White and Tony Matar01:02 – Studio banter and dynamic01:23 – “Step-son energy” explained01:51 – Tony’s journey into ministry04:20 – Getting saved and serving in youth ministry05:15 – Calling, Bible college, and early leadership06:16 – Mill Creek campus beginnings07:53 – Navigating growth, transitions, and challenges08:35 – Youth ministry growth before COVID09:24 – Staying faithful when it’s difficult10:28 – Discovering joy in discipleship11:30 – Calling vs becoming more like Jesus12:24 – Helping people follow Jesus for life13:42 – Raising leaders and launching churches14:20 – Sensing God’s call to start a church15:05 – Identifying and raising the next generation16:24 – Letting go of ministry roles17:15 – Reaching Gen Z in a new way18:16 – Leading with empathy and care19:39 – The “third option” and gospel-centered thinking21:14 – Spiritual hunger and formation over performance23:19 – Reverence, authenticity, and connection25:03 – The human need for belonging26:53 – Small groups and real community28:14 – Excellence as stewardship30:10 – Evangelism and serving the marginalized31:19 – Moving past spiritual consumerism33:07 – Shepherding people, not platforms35:50 – Reaching people, not just inviting them38:17 – Being present in everyday spaces39:16 – A global hunger for God40:43 – Activation, testimony, and mission42:03 – Serving as a volunteer43:22 – The importance of parking and first impressions44:03 – Closing encouragement and final thoughts

It’s the Christmas episode of Pastors Unfiltered, and the crew is back with one of their most fun and wide-ranging conversations of the year. In this episode, Pastor Brandon and Pastor Tony are joined by Venture staff members Rachel Winfield and Kehlani as they make bold (and sometimes hilarious) predictions for 2026. From blockbuster movies and music charts, to the economy, cryptocurrency, sports, and the future of Venture Church — nothing is off limits. Along the way, they talk about:What’s coming next for Venture Church in 2026Predictions for church growth, generosity, and servingStaff life, babies, marriages, and transitionsMovies, music, Survivor, and Seattle sportsThe economy, AI, crypto, housing, and inflationChristmas reflections and looking ahead with faithIt’s lighthearted, honest, occasionally chaotic, and completely unfiltered — the perfect episode to close out the year. Merry Christmas from the Pastors Unfiltered team. ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to Pastors Unfiltered00:28 – Christmas episode introduction01:10 – “Moral failures” and holiday confessions01:52 – Switzerland coaster story02:40 – Merry Christmas message to listeners03:00 – Introducing predictions for 202603:28 – Introducing Rachel & Kehlani04:35 – Nicknames, banter, and Josh facts05:00 – Josh’s Christmas list reveal06:12 – Biggest blockbuster movie predictions07:28 – Hunger Games, Marvel, and movie debates09:09 – Horror movies and movie habits10:10 – Survivor predictions11:03 – Survivor Season 50 discussion12:48 – Transition to economy predictions13:11 – AI, layoffs, and government spending14:39 – National deficit and job market15:12 – Crypto, gold, and silver predictions16:25 – Gas prices, interest rates, and housing17:37 – Political climate and midterms19:07 – Childcare costs and paid leave20:39 – Predictions for the church in 202621:17 – Venture Church growth and serving22:20 – Radical generosity and service23:13 – Giving goals and kids ministry vision24:10 – Building expansion and future plans25:11 – Staff prediction recap from last year25:58 – New staff predictions for 202627:02 – Leadership additions and growth28:05 – Dallas prediction moment29:16 – Babies, marriages, and staff life30:14 – Staff stability and transitions31:25 – Music artist predictions for 202632:41 – Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift, and pop culture34:03 – Country music era predictions35:05 – Mariners over/under predictions36:05 – Golf vs cowboy boots bet37:23 – Seahawks, Sonics, and Seattle sports38:18 – Kraken and NFL predictions40:27 – Pop culture and hobbies discussion42:09 – Chick-fil-A staff predictions44:41 – Jake Paul vs Anthony Joshua prediction46:49 – Final thoughts and Christmas wrap-up47:33 – Closing encouragement and sign-off

This week on Pastors Unfiltered, Pastor Brandon and Pastor Tony look back at their 2025 predictions and see just how right (and very wrong) they were. From movies, music, sports, and pop culture, to the economy, church growth, staff predictions, and even fashion trends, nothing is off-limits in this hilarious and wide-ranging episode. The guys unpack what actually happened in 2025, celebrate big wins at Venture Church, and reflect honestly on a year filled with transition, generosity, construction, and growth. Along the way, they also introduce their brand-new podcast studio, explain the stories behind some very questionable décor choices, and share candid moments about leadership, ministry, and what God has been doing behind the scenes at Venture. It’s funny, reflective, and completely unfiltered — the perfect year-endepisode. ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to Pastors Unfiltered00:27 – Introducing the new podcast studio01:22 – Why this studio exists and how it came together01:45 – Pastor Appreciation gifts and studio décor tour02:36 – Aliens, Biggie Smalls, and questionable collectibles03:41 – Autographed memorabilia and survivor memorabilia04:34 – Dallas and Josh share their favorite studio items06:00 – The tradition of yearly predictions06:22 – Reviewing the 2025 prediction episodes07:15 – Best Picture predictions and movie disappointments08:57 – State of movies post-COVID09:22 – Diddy predictions and what actually happened11:21 – Economy predictions and interest rates12:18 – Light rail and Seattle infrastructure hopes12:56 – Stock market, Bitcoin, and gas prices14:12 – Inflation, cereal prices, and Costco habits15:57 – Venture staff dating predictions16:52 – Josh chooses a football team17:52 – Staff pregnancy predictions19:05 – Staff transitions and ministry changes20:06 – Will the Sonics return?21:23 – Music artist of the year predictions22:33 – Spotify and Billboard results23:17 – Mariners season predictions and bets24:29 – Country concert wager consequences25:09 – Work, Sabbath, and leadership commentary27:13 – UW men’s soccer championship28:11 – Venture Church predictions for the year29:10 – Attendance during construction season30:10 – Building expansion updates31:09 – Palouse campus transition32:02 – Record-breaking year of giving33:25 – Fashion predictions and trends36:13 – Dick’s Drive-In predictions38:01 – Wrapping up 2025 recap39:04 – Preview of next episode with the gals43:11 – Final thoughts and Christmas Eve invitation

This week on Pastors Unfiltered, Pastor Brandon sits down for a powerful one-on-one conversation with Hal Donaldson, the founder and president of Convoy of Hope, at their world headquarters in Springfield, Missouri. Hal shares the incredible story of how Convoy of Hope began — from a childhood marked by tragedy and poverty, to a life-changing interview with Mother Teresa, to loading groceries into a single pickup truck, all the way to becoming one of the largest relief organizations in the world. In this episode, you’ll hear: • How Convoy of Hope now feeds 639,000 children every day • The heart behind disaster relief, women’s empowerment, and agricultural programs • Stories of families and communities transformed around the world • Why personal health and spiritual obedience changed the direction of Hal’s life • How churches like Venture are making a global difference • Unfiltered conversations on leadership, priorities, sports, food, books, and family This is one of the most inspiring and eye-opening episodes we’ve ever shared. Whether you love global missions, leadership stories, or hearing how God can use one act of obedience to change the world — this episode will move you.

Welcome back to Pastors Unfiltered! This week, Pastor Brandon and Pastor Tony kick off the Christmas season with one of the funniest, most chaotic, and most heartfelt episodes yet. From office décor wars and thrift-store treasure hunts, to social media trolling, to Thanksgiving leftovers, to shocking sermon illustrations… nothing is off limits in this episode. The pastors also share updates about church life, Christmas events, Pastor Brandon’s upcoming shoulder surgery, and the top five things each of them wants for Christmas this year (some serious, some very not serious). Along the way, you’ll hear:• A brand-new sponsor announcement• Why PB’s office smells like a cigar lounge• The “Josh Segment” update• Thoughts on church culture, preaching, and online criticism• Wild sermon stories (yes, including planters warts, bestiality, and threesomes)• Christmas at Venture – decorations, services, and outreach• The honest fears and hopes surrounding PB’s surgery• Their dream Christmas wish lists It’s real, hilarious, unfiltered, and the perfect way to welcome the holiday season. ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to Pastors Unfiltered00:28 – Interior design roast + PB’s office reveal01:17 – Claire approves PB’s thrifted office01:40 – New sponsor: Master’s Touch Woodworking02:36 – Tony guesses PB’s office style03:31 – Danish modern vs. youth pastor décor04:23 – PB’s revelation about himself04:40 – The Planning Center sermon controversy05:26 – Comment regrets + online critics06:06 – Which preaching “tribe” was involved?06:35 – When megachurch pastors fight online06:54 – Tony admits he’s a sports troll07:31 – Millennials vs. Gen X childhoods08:20 – Stranger Things, spiritual darkness & Netflix09:09 – PB’s shoulder surgery announcement10:13 – Pain meds + preaching = disaster?11:17 – More Josh Segment updates12:21 – Josh is officially a shoe guy13:01 – The “homeschooler fashion” roast13:38 – Dallas enters the chat14:12 – Christmas décor at Seattle campus15:14 – Last year’s Christmas wish list16:07 – Christmas events at both campuses17:02 – New Year’s Sunday preaching assignments18:09 – Chocolate theft in the office18:56 – Women’s Brunch + Live Nativity prep19:16 – Pastor Di’s incredible sermon report20:16 – Women in ministry conversation22:01 – Beth Moore is coming back22:18 – Benny Hinn divorce news23:11 – Gifts for the homeless through UGM23:55 – Youth pastor travel roast24:22 – Christmas gift #1: Coffee machine dreams25:31 – PB’s flannel era + Sunday style26:20 – Christmas gift #2: Leather bomber jacket27:34 – Christmas gift #3: Get Tony hair28:10 – The hairpiece discussion gets real29:01 – How to reveal your new hair29:40 – Christmas gift #4: Magic the Gathering haul31:26 – Christmas gift #5: Golden Goose shoes32:14 – PB still wants a giant Sasquatch33:36 – Wish list turns into construction prayers34:35 – Office space problems35:22 – Christmas gift #6: Pastors Unfiltered neon sign35:52 – Tony wants a vacuum and a new shower36:56 – PB’s real wish: healing after surgery38:16 – Jacket envy: The Canada Goose moment39:10 – The surgery conversation gets deep40:54 – PB is the surgeon’s “favorite patient”42:20 – Surgery fears and prayers43:28 – Stories from surgeon family members44:24 – The “planter’s wart sermon” breakdown46:20 – Jared Ming’s three-part sermon shocker47:26 – When sermon illustrations go too far48:48 – The infamous "F-word" forgiveness video49:20 – Russell Johnson energy vs. PB energy50:38 – Extrovert/introvert confessions51:20 – Baby announcement shoutout51:44 – Next episode preview52:00 – Predictions episode coming soon52:29 – Christmas Eve invite53:19 – Encouragement to attend church & Advent plan53:43 – Why multi-site ministry matters54:35 – Five-star review plea + closing

Welcome back to Pastors Unfiltered! This week, Pastor Brandon and Pastor Tony sit down for a special Thanksgiving weekend episode filled with laughter, honesty, gratitude, and some of their most unfiltered conversations yet. They share the five serious things they’re most thankful for in 2025—faith, family, health, ministry, unity among pastors, and the incredible generosity of Venture Church. And of course… they also share five not-so-serious things they’re thankful for, including construction nightmares, Bigfoot merch, maple syrup handles, and a gas station clerk who really wants Tony to buy a car wash. Along the way they talk about:• Pastoral unity across the Northwest• Raising families that love Jesus• The wild world of tipping culture• Youth ministry tattoos they regret• Why everyone thinks Tony is a “boomer”• Joshua Single: Week 2 of the Bachelor Bio• Black Friday deals, Legos, Seattle weather, and more It’s heartfelt, hilarious, and packed with the real conversations pastors have when the cameras are rolling and when they’re not. Thanks to the faithful 253 who listen every week — this episode is for you. ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to Pastors Unfiltered00:26 – Opening prayer + Thanksgiving greeting01:08 – Gratitude for listeners during the holidays01:48 – Brandon’s Lego Death Star project03:01 – The largest Lego sets they’ve ever built04:03 – Lego therapy & aging trends05:04 – “Per Harvard” becomes the new disclaimer05:53 – Joshua Single: Week 2 bio update08:11 – Eligible bachelors at Venture09:01 – Campus staff shoutouts10:25 – Black Friday purchases10:54 – Hanging TVs at the Dome11:12 – Gen-X childhood & car repair11:36 – Gratitude segment begins12:38 – #1 Thankful for what God is doing in the Northwest13:00 – Young adults bouncing between churches14:01 – Why unity among churches matters15:10 – Pastors across denominations working together16:26 – Addiction, calling, and pastoral influence17:46 – Shoutouts to Northwest pastors18:20 – Elijah’s calling & future decisions19:25 – #2 Thankful for health20:20 – #3 Thankful for families that love Jesus21:31 – Youth ministry memories and transitions22:36 – #4 Tony’s surprising “gratitude”: Donald Trump23:34 – Politics, war, and peace negotiations24:23 – The evolution of Tony’s viewpoints25:55 – Taylor Swift and accidental fandom26:19 – #5 Thankful for generous, patient churches27:04 – Massive giving year for Venture27:27 – Seattle weather appreciation28:07 – New staff adjusting to Washington weather29:16 – Christian education & thankful for Kings Schools30:10 – Bonus: Thankful for the “Faithful 253” listeners31:19 – Funny Gratitudes Begin31:19 – #1 Tony: Roosevelt gas station car-wash guy32:20 – #1 Brandon: Cal Raleigh and Mariners grief33:01 – #2 Tony: The tiny maple syrup handle34:04 – #2 Brandon: All the Bigfoot gifts35:12 – #3 Tony: Restaurant QR code rage & phone flashlights36:08 – Tipping culture meltdown37:06 – Youth ministry tips & tattoos37:29 – #3 Brandon: 30-year Raiders seat contract38:49 – Seahawks becoming the new Raiders39:11 – #4 Tony: Donut people who say “I really shouldn’t…”40:19 – #4 Brandon: Thankful for construction projects (but not really)42:00 – Mukilteo bridge saga + mailbox incidents42:38 – Parking enforcement & Miller the ticket man43:45 – Speed cameras & expensive fines44:16 – How Judah hacks parking permits45:01 – Disabled parking confessions45:58 – TikTok obsessions & the “Fate of Ophelia” dance47:18 – Youth pastors and tattoos48:02 – Ending banter48:20 – Airplane jeans debate49:18 – Holiday encouragement50:09 – Looking ahead to 2026 predictions50:51 – Closing

This week on Pastors Unfiltered, Pastor Tony is joined by special guest Christian Lembeck for one of the most real, hilarious, and heartfelt episodes yet — the Seattle Episode. From Magic: The Gathering decks and online Discord games… to life on Capitol Hill… to the challenges and beauty of doing ministry in one of the most complex cities in America, Tony and Christian talk about the highs, lows, tensions, joys, and calling of urban ministry. They open up about:What it’s really like raising families in SeattleThe spiritual battle pastors face in the cityWhy God calls people into difficult placesThe growing movement of young, diverse churches in SeattleThe importance of unity in the ChurchHow everyday conversations become moments of ministryThis episode is honest, funny, and deeply encouraging — a reminder that God is working in cities and in people’s lives in powerful ways. ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to Pastors Unfiltered00:25 – Tony introduces Christian Lembeck00:47 – Last episode recap and great feedback01:05 – The “cool kid” podcast mic setup01:25 – Meet Joshua: our single sound tech01:45 – Josh reveals a fun fact02:15 – The “Hallmark dog guy” moment02:49 – A less serious episode ahead03:00 – Tony’s new hobby: Magic the Gathering03:40 – Christian reacts to Tony’s deck04:19 – Tabletop Simulator & Discord gaming05:25 – Magic otters, mana costs, and chaos06:17 – “You’re a wizard, Harry”06:50 – Harry Potter, spells, and old emails07:14 – Discipleship or just board games?07:30 – The Seattle Episode officially begins08:12 – The reactions people give when they hear “I live in Seattle”08:56 – Seattle’s beauty and brokenness09:55 – Addiction, encampments, and real challenges10:49 – The dignity of every human being11:13 – Shifting into what we love about the city12:00 – Living on Capitol Hill12:19 – Seattle stereotypes & the reality13:02 – Seattle media perception vs. reality13:41 – Walkable community and neighborhood culture14:19 – Restaurant stories and talking to strangers15:13 – The “I’m a pastor” moment16:21 – Conversations about cancer, grief, and prayer17:29 – Meeting neighbors from all walks of life18:04 – Loving the walkability and community18:23 – Tony’s life in Roosevelt19:04 – The joy (and chaos) of city life19:24 – The harder side: hostility toward faith20:06 – Why pastors choose the city anyway20:26 – Loving people where they are21:13 – The realities of danger and mental health crises22:04 – Why choose Seattle?23:08 – Tony’s “why we stay”23:55 – The cost and calling of urban ministry24:01 – Christian’s calling and conviction24:27 – How the early church reached cities25:41 – Why cities matter for the Gospel26:18 – Cities as centers of influence27:20 – Every human is looking for Jesus27:47 – Calling to pray for the city28:09 – Jeremiah 29 and living in exile29:25 – Seeking the peace of the city29:52 – Spiritual strongholds and prayer walks30:11 – Fighting with spiritual weapons, not frustration31:22 – The overlooked challenge of urban church planting32:05 – The new wave of Seattle churches32:26 – Shoutouts to pastors across the city33:07 – Stories of grit and calling in Seattle34:05 – Multiethnic, multigenerational church life35:20 – The historic building on 65th36:03 – A church merger story36:50 – Heroes of the faith in the city37:11 – Encouragement to believers outside Seattle37:57 – The spiritual battle pastors face38:19 – How other churches have supported the mission38:38 – Top restaurant recommendations (the important stuff!)40:36 – The best sandwiches and pasta in Seattle41:22 – Best brunch in the city41:48 – Final thank yous and encouragement42:07 – Honoring long friendships and calling42:54 – World Cup 2026 chaos + Trump jokes43:14 – Closing remarks and reminders44:00 – December 12th special guest announcement44:15 – See you next week!44:28 – The obligatory “win that” moment

This week on Pastors Unfiltered, Pastors Brandon and Tony sit down with Joshua Tallent, who teaches adult discipleship classes at Venture Church, for a deeper dive into Ephesians 3. Together they unpack Paul's vision of God's boundless love, the mystery of the gospel, and what it means for the church today. It's honest, practical, and rooted in real-life discipleship.

This week on Pastors Unfiltered, Pastors Brandon Beals and Tony Matar are joined by David Diaz, Worship Pastor at Venture Church, for a packed and hilarious conversation. From PB’s upcoming trip to the Green Bay Packers game, to David’s stories about the first-ever Venture Live Recording Night, this episode blends laughter, behind-the-scenes insight, and encouragement about what God is doing at Venture. David shares the story behind Venture Music’s songwriting retreat, how over 25 original songs were written, and how the team is preparing to release their first live worship album. The pastors also talk ministry life, travel quirks, auto-tuning in worship, and what it’s really like leading a growing church in the middle of a massive building project. This one’s got heart, humor, and a ton of energy — don’t miss it! ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to Pastors Unfiltered 01:20 – Pastor Brandon’s trip to Nashville 03:00 – The Grand Ole Opry and country music 05:00 – Packers vs. Eagles and ministry travel stories 07:00 – Guest introduction: David Diaz is back! 08:30 – Taylor Swift, Turning Point, and random hot takes 10:00 – Venture turns 21 and the building expansion 12:00 – Behind-the-scenes of Venture’s renovation 13:00 – The story behind the Live Recording Night 15:00 – The call to write original worship music 16:00 – How Venture Music wrote 26 songs in one retreat 18:00 – Creating the first Venture Music album 19:00 – Building the songwriting team and hearing from God 21:00 – How each songwriter was chosen and called 22:30 – The future of Venture Music and upcoming releases 24:00 – Plans for the Venture United project 27:00 – Recording, mixing, and producing the first songs 28:00 – The debate over Auto-Tune in church worship 30:00 – Pastor Brandon’s “Lay down the guitar” story 32:00 – Saxophone stories and musical throwbacks 34:00 – Memories from 21 years of Venture Church 35:00 – Honoring past worship leaders and volunteers 37:00 – Wrapping up and what’s next for Venture Music 39:00 – Random closing chaos — AI videos, Sora, and Taylor Swift

Venture Church just turned 21!In this special anniversary episode of Pastors Unfiltered, Pastors Tony Mattar and Morgan Butcher sit down with guest host John Plotner to look back at 21 years of Venture Church — the stories, challenges, and hilarious moments that shaped it all. From football injuries and youth ministry fails to moments of life change and deep gratitude, this episode is a reminder that ministry is messy, meaningful, and full of God’s grace.

This week on Pastors Unfiltered, Pastors Brandon and Tony dive into Ephesians 2 and talk about one of the hardest—but most important—truths in Scripture: who we are without Christ and who we become in Christ. From discussing the reality of sin, culture, and spiritual warfare to the hope that comes through Jesus, this episode is a powerful reminder that even when we were dead in our sins — “But God” changes everything. They also talk Mariners baseball, puppets in kids ministry, AI, church culture, and why absolute truth still matters in today’s world. Watch or listen for laughter, honesty, and deep biblical truth as the pastors unpack Paul’s words and challenge us to live like we’ve truly been made alive in Christ. ⏱️ Timestamps 0:00 – Welcome to Pastors Unfiltered1:30 – Mariners heartbreak and Seahawks talk4:00 – Pastor Brandon’s “dog portrait” gift6:00 – Church chaos and puppet appearances10:15 – Kids ministry puppets and laughter13:00 – New AI app “Sora” and deepfake craziness16:20 – Diving into Ephesians 2: Made Alive in Christ18:00 – What it means to be “dead in sin”19:30 – Slaves to the world, the devil, and our flesh21:20 – The influence of culture and social media23:30 – Truth vs. relativism in today’s world26:00 – The struggle between grace and our flesh28:30 – Conviction, self-control, and spiritual maturity30:40 – Paul’s brutal honesty about sin and judgment33:00 – What “wrath” really means in Scripture35:00 – The responsibility of pastors to teach truth38:00 – Culture, compromise, and the Gospel40:00 – Why preaching absolute truth still matters44:00 – “But God” — the turning point of hope46:00 – What’s next on Pastors Unfiltered

This week on Pastors Unfiltered, Pastors Brandon and Tony are back with a fun and honest conversation that moves from Mariners baseball and Taylor Swift to unpacking the heart of the book of Ephesians. They share why this letter from Paul still matters today, what it teaches us about identity in Christ, and how the church can live with unity and strength in a divided world. It’s real talk about faith, culture, calling, and what it looks like to live it out every day.

This week on Pastors Unfiltered, Pastor Brandon sits down with Matt and Lynn Clayton, lead pastors of Real Life Church in California. Together, they share what it’s like to co-lead a church as a married couple, balancing calling, leadership, and family. Lynn opens up about her powerful testimony of salvation during the Heaven’s Gates, Hell’s Flames revival, and the couple talks candidly about women in ministry, church culture, and what it means to lead with unity and humility.

In this week’s episode of Pastors Unfiltered, Pastor Brandon sits down with Claire Rasor and Rachel Winfield for a candid conversation about what it’s really like being women in ministry. They talk openly about navigating expectations, balancing marriage and ministry life, and breaking through stereotypes in a historically male-dominated field.

This week on Pastors Unfiltered, Pastor Brandon and Pastor Tony are back together in the studio with a timely and raw conversation about faith, culture, and what it means to follow Jesus in a polarized world.

This week on Pastors Unfiltered, Pastor Tony is joined by Pastor Morgan and special guest Judah Beals the faithful producer who has been behind the board since the very beginning of the podcast. With Pastor Brandon away tending to his wife after an accident, the crew shares laughs, cultural commentary (including the infamous “Phillies Karen”), and some heartfelt moments as Judah reflects on his journey. From growing up as a pastor’s kid, to serving at Venture, to preparing for his next career step at Boeing, Judah talks about what he’s learned, his work ethic, his faith, and some of his favorite podcast memories.

In this solo episode of the Pastors Unfiltered podcast, Pastor Brandon shares about his wife Di’s recent hiking injury. While it was a tough experience, he reflects with honesty and humor on the resilience and faith that have carried them through. Without Pastor Tony in the chair this week, Pastor Brandon opens up in a more personal way, giving a glimpse into the real challenges of life and ministry—and the hope that keeps him moving forward.Watch this episode for an unfiltered look at faith, family, and everyday life behind the scenes.

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

In this candid and humorous episode, Pastors Brandon Beals (PB) and Tony Mattar share travel stories, personal updates, and dive into a hot-button issue in ministry: the use of AI in sermon writing. Along the way, they sprinkle in family anecdotes, church news, food debates, and behind-the-scenes stories from decades in ministry.00:00 – Intro & Springfield trip (Convoy of Hope, Hal Donaldson interview, AG headquarters)05:40 – Frozen custard discoveries & food humor10:20 – Shoulder replacement update & building campaign donation14:10 – Sponsor shoutout & Tony’s “DINK life” weekend story19:00 – Family updates, lawyer sister, doctor brother, Morgan’s bunion23:30 – Main discussion: AI in sermon writing (uses, limits, ethical concerns)30:50 – Live AI sermon test & debate on originality vs. commentary use36:40 – Sermon illustrations, story integrity, and past experiences with plagiarism42:00 – Social media food debates, Ezell’s vs. Roscoe’s, Waffle House jokes44:30 – Closing church updates (Seattle campus, Mill Creek remodel, shoulder surgery, football talk)45:20 – Outro

This episode of Pastors Unfiltered takes a lighthearted break from recent serious conversations, with Pastors Tony Mattar and Brandon Beals joking about life, quirky sponsorships, and the contents of a “Pastor Box” subscription before diving into a debate over the top 100 movies of the past 25 years. They share favorites like Moneyball, The Dark Knight, and The Social Network, spar over Brandon’s top pick (Once Upon a Time in Hollywood), and dismiss several obscure indie and international films with humor. The episode wraps with Venture Church updates, including Vision Sunday, building expansion tours, and serving “100 cakes,” while promising a more spiritual episode next week.00:00 – Intro, banter, and Brandon’s new professor title05:10 – Sponsor talk: dream sponsors, Athletic Greens, and tea shop nostalgia12:45 – Quirky water bottles, church swag, and the “Pastor Box” giveaway20:30 – Assigning books and gifts to staff with playful commentary27:15 – Introduction to the Top 100 Movies list33:00 – Pixar favorites, indie film complaints, and Brandon’s top pick44:20 – Debating *Moneyball*, *Once Upon a Time in Hollywood*, and other highlights53:10 – Top 10 rankings: *The Dark Knight*, *The Social Network*, *Get Out*, *Parasite*59:30 – Wrap-up: Vision Sunday, building tours, “100 cakes,” and final thoughts01:03:00 – Closing remarks, listener challenge, and Starbucks gift card offer

In this Pastors Unfiltered episode, Pastor Brandon Beals interviews Brett Allen, superintendent of the Northern California-Nevada Assemblies of God District. They discuss Brett’s journey from youth pastor to district leader, his personal hobbies like woodworking and beekeeping, and practical leadership advice for young pastors. Brett emphasizes staying grounded, honoring past leadership, following your leader well, and maintaining a strong private life with God. The conversation is filled with humor, wisdom, and insight into healthy ministry longevity.00:00 – Intro: Brandon’s famous shorts & Tony’s croc conversation02:15 – Cal Raleigh Home Run Derby recap05:20 – Coffee order anxiety & honesty at Starbucks08:30 – Amazon Returns vs. Target: where trust lives11:15 – Raising boys, winning & losing, and sportsmanship14:40 – Brandon’s son's first fight story18:10 – Exploring school safety & traumatic events21:25 – Pastors as spiritual first responders23:30 – Social media noise vs. listening to the Spirit26:40 – The danger of emotional momentum28:55 – Jesus' model: responding with clarity and timing31:40 – Why youth ministry is harder than ever34:10 – What's the future of student ministry?36:15 – Youth groups as incubators for faith38:30 – The difference between vulnerability & oversharing42:10 – Adult leaders who become spiritual family45:05 – Praying over students: permission vs. empowerment47:30 – Brandon gets prophetic about Gen Z’s purpose51:05 – Final thoughts: stop criticizing, start parenting54:30 – Outro

This Pastors Unfiltered episode features hosts Brandon Beals and Tony Mattar in their usual mix of humor, candid conversation, and ministry insights, with special guest Justin Farley, Campus Pastor for Venture Spokane. The discussion blends lighthearted banter about cologne, weddings, sports, and pop culture with a deeply personal segment about Justin’s ministry journey, personal trials, and redemption.00:00 – Intro03:10 – Brandon’s surprising celebrity encounter05:45 – Listener feedback & funny text threads09:15 – Tony’s deep dive into betrayal in ministry12:30 – When trust is broken: personal stories15:40 – How leaders process pain without isolating18:20 – The healing role of prayer & worship21:50 – PB’s recent prayer retreat experience25:10 – The importance of spiritual friendships28:45 – Encouraging people to open up in small groups31:30 – Balancing transparency and wisdom in leadership35:00 – Stories of unexpected encouragement from church family38:20 – Dealing with “ministry fatigue” and burnout42:15 – Practical rhythms for staying spiritually healthy45:40 – Tony’s top 3 ways to guard against bitterness49:00 – How to pray for your pastors and leaders52:20 – Listener Q&A: “What’s the hardest season you’ve been through?”56:00 – Encouragement for those feeling alone in faith59:15 – Wrap-up & what’s coming in the next episode

In Episode 114 of Pastors Unfiltered, Tony Mattar and Brandon Beals host Ivars Uckun, a former Muslim from Turkey who shares his powerful testimony of encountering Jesus after a life marked by cultural alienation, drug use, and disillusionment with religion. İvars describes a supernatural moment of meeting Jesus (“Yeshua”) in a Messianic synagogue that changed his life. Now a leader with the Al-Ma'idah Initiative, he helps Christians build meaningful relationships with Muslims through conversation, education, and community events. The episode mixes humor, cultural commentary, and spiritual depth—covering prophetic misfires, movie debates, and the radical love of Jesus that relentlessly pursues people from all backgrounds.00:00 – Opening Banter & Staff Humor  05:00 – Movie Talk: Fantastic Four, Superman, Happy Gilmore 2  10:00 – Adam Sandler, Movie Contracts, and Holy Retribution Story  15:00 – Travel Chaos, "Prophetic Word," and the Black Crow Incident  20:00 – Debriefing the 'False Prophecy' and Funny Church Stories  25:00 – Intro to Guest Ivars Uckun + Background  30:00 – Growing Up Muslim in New Jersey  35:00 – Alienation, Rebellion, and Turning to Drugs  40:00 – Jail Cell Moment, Seeking God, Studying Religions  45:00 – Meeting a Christian Woman & First Church Visit  50:00 – Encountering Jesus in a Messianic Synagogue  55:00 – Starting Discipleship, Following Jesus for 15 Years  60:00 – Ivars' Ministry at Al-Ma'idah Initiative + Cultural Reflections  65:00 – Fun Wrap-Up: Music, Marvel Rankings, In-N-Out vs Dick’s DebateCheck out Al-Ma'idah Initiative:https://www.youtube.com/playlistlist=PL5QksT3IlLDrYUMJoQHR1z0akJvHZkPXR&si=bi2CG4fZ_RY5596G

In Episode 113 of Pastors Unfiltered, Pastors Tony, David, and John sit down to talk about the weight of leadership, family rhythms, and the beauty of staying grounded in your calling. From processing personal growth to handling criticism, this episode gets honest about what it looks like to lead well—without losing your soul in the process.00:00 – Opening Banter: Towels, Showers, and David's Clarifications  05:00 – Brandon’s Montana Trip + Horse Photos and Allergies  10:00 – Palouse Campus Trip Recap: Alaska Airlines Fails  15:00 – Getting Stranded in Pullman + College Cabs Chaos  20:00 – Hotel Room Drama, Travel Vouchers, and The Mysterious Bench  25:00 – Leadership & Hidden Sin: Coldplay Concert Affair Controversy  30:00 – Leadership Reflections: Accountability, Church Culture, and Wisdom  35:00 – Who Holds You Accountable? Personal Examples and Guardrails  40:00 – Humility, Wisdom, and Living Above Reproach  45:00 – Phones, Secrets, Vulnerability, and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Pastors Unfiltered, Pastors Brandon and Tony open up about the real stuff pastors face—messing up on stage, navigating pressure, and raising up the next generation. From funny stories about preaching gone sideways to deep thoughts on teen discipleship and staying grounded in your calling, this episode hits both real talk and relatable laughs.00:00 – Introduction: Pastor Tony & Dr. Brandon return00:22 – Superman movie review & animated film chat01:55 – Crypto the Superdog, Green Lantern, and casting nostalgia04:23 – Epstein files & JD Vance discussion06:00 – Cal Raleigh's Home Run Derby story07:00 – Brandon’s grandchild name ideas07:55 – Listener feedback and episode stats10:35 – Welcoming Johnathan & Kailani Aleman12:30 – The Alemans share their story, family & ministry journey20:55 – Interview mishap turns into divine appointment23:40 – Passion for junior high ministry & identity formation27:44 – Kids ministry calling through personal tragedy30:30 – New building announcement: kids & youth expansion34:20 – The Alemans’ goals & dreams for the ministry36:00 – What they’re reading, listening to & doing for fun38:20 – Survivor fan talk & favorite podcasts39:47 – Final encouragement & fundraising reflections40:35 – Outro & contact info

We're back with a brand-new episode of Pastors Unfiltered, and this week, Pastor Tony and Pastor Brandon are catching up, cracking jokes, and diving into everything from international travel and lawn care... to apologetics, calling, and identity in ministry. Pastor Brandon shares stories from his recent Convoy of Hope trip, the struggles of house hunting in Seattle, and the heart behind Venture’s new sermon series: “God Problems.”00:00 – Intro, Norway trip & gardening love02:58 – PB’s yard obsession and seasonal planting06:05 – Convoy of Hope trip stories & poker night09:40 – The infamous Norway troll gift for Tony12:00 – Tony's Seattle house-hunting woes16:00 – Housing market frustrations & political commentary20:10 – Affordability, condos, and Tony’s life plans23:00 – Reflecting on old housing prices26:00 – Why Tony might just live in a van28:00 – Recap: From Ephesus series + naming changes30:55 – New series: “God Problems” intro & format35:15 – Series questions: purpose, evil, forgiveness, religions38:30 – Topical vs. expository preaching styles43:15 – Upcoming Ephesians & possible marriage series46:20 – Sermon planning insights & topical concerns48:50 – Pastoral identity and long-term calling52:05 – Dealing with pastoral comparison & pride57:10 – Reflections on young church planters & comparison culture59:50 – Fillmore’s rising influence and pastor humility01:03:00 – Best recent movie: *F1* (and sobbing during it)01:06:00 – Brad Pitt at 61, Vin Diesel’s Fast & Furious hype01:08:45 – Marty Solomon responds to criticism01:12:30 – More troll jokes from Norway01:13:45 – Final notes on Diddy & Epstein conspiracy theories01:17:30 – Church scandals: Jimmy Swaggart legacy reflections01:21:45 – Redemption vs. judgment in ministry failings01:25:00 – Wrapping up: pastoral grace and pod outro01:27:15 – PB’s intense facial expressions & listener feedback01:29:00 – Tony confirms Judah is still single01:30:00 – Final humor segment: Glenn Berteau impression & shoutouts01:32:00 – Closing encouragements & subscribe reminder

In this episode of Pastors Unfiltered, Pastor Tony Mattar sits down with pastor, podcaster, and theology nerd Austin Molt—host of Sexy Theology—for a wide-ranging, deep, and fun conversation about all things theology, church culture, and faith. From why theology matters to the truth about saints, eschatology, and church tradition, this episode is both thought-provoking and hilarious. You’ll hear about:00:00 – Intro: Tony solos this week + shoutout to Austin Molt01:40 – Meet Austin Molt: Pastor, podcaster, dad of “non-Christian” toddlers04:30 – Austin’s ministry journey: From youth to associate pastor06:40 – 13 years in youth ministry: The power of staying rooted09:25 – Austin’s unexpected start in theology via Watchman Nee13:00 – What is theology? A simple and deep explanation15:15 – Why average Christians feel hesitant about theology18:40 – Critical minds, not critical hearts – avoiding “heresy hunters”21:50 – The value of learning in community and asking better questions24:35 – Theology vs. preaching – why pastoring is harder26:20 – When pastors teach questionable theology – how to respond with humility30:00 – “Permission-based pastoring” and healthy correction in church33:20 – Rapid Fire Q1: “If God has an elect, why try?”36:50 – Rapid Fire Q2: Has Revelation already happened?41:15 – Revelation’s triple genre: Epistle, apocalyptic, prophetic44:25 – Austin’s criteria for second coming references47:10 – Why we obsess over the end times & blood moons49:00 – Dispensationalism explained in plain language51:50 – How to know when theology has “strayed”55:00 – Is scripture infallible? And how is it different from creeds?57:00 – Why Gen Z is drawn to Eastern Orthodoxy01:01:45 – Romanticism vs. theology: Don’t just fall for narratives01:04:50 – Liturgical reverence meets Spirit empowerment – both can coexist01:07:15 – Why Protestants don’t venerate saints01:10:00 – Final Q: Why do most Protestant churches not display crosses?01:13:30 – Austin critiques “hyper-spiritualism” – the importance of physical symbols01:15:20 – Final segment: Sexy Theology podcast intro + origin story01:17:45 – Wrap-up: Austin’s church building, podcast studio, and what’s next01:19:20 – Tony’s outro + birthday roast for MorganWhy average Christians can and should explore theologyHow ADHD actually helped Austin love theological studyA fresh breakdown of dispensationalism, Revelation, and Catholic/Orthodox traditionsWhat it means to hold truth and tension in spiritual maturityWhy Protestant churches don’t use crosses like they used toAnd yes... the theology of Sasquatch makes an appearance 👀Whether you’re a theology buff or just curious what it all means—this episode is for you. 🎧 Listen now and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share! 📍 Guest: @AustinMolt🎙️ Podcast: Sexy Theology – Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube

In this special episode of Pastors Unfiltered, Dr. Joseph Castleberry—author, theologian, and former president of Northwest University—joins Pastors Brandon Beals and Tony Mattar for a wide-ranging and powerful conversation about revival, awakening, and the future of the Church. Dr. Castleberry shares key insights from his book The Sixth Great Awakening, unpacking the difference between revival and awakening, and why the next 20 years could be the most spiritually significant in history.00:00 – Intro and Seattle Weather Banter02:00 – Weekend Recap with Brett Allen05:15 – Summer Plans: Boats, Pickleball, and Vacations08:00 – Disneyland and Club 33 Anniversary10:20 – Introduction of Dr. Joseph Castleberry12:15 – Seinfeld References and Light Banter13:30 – Can Pastor Brandon Get an Honorary Doctorate?16:10 – What Honorary Doctorates Really Mean18:00 – Dr. Castleberry's Reflections on Coaching Doctoral Students20:00 – Introducing “The Sixth Great Awakening” Book22:30 – Revival vs Awakening: What’s the Difference?27:45 – Current Spiritual State of America30:40 – Revival Trends on the West Coast and Spirit-Filled Churches33:00 – Signs of Revival and Sociological Trends35:15 – European Revival and Gen Z Church Growth38:10 – Rise of Men in Church Attendance40:45 – Catholic and Orthodox Growth Among Gen Z45:20 – Transubstantiation and Catholic Renewal48:30 – Book Insights: The Next 20 Years of Church and Culture53:40 – AI, Economic Disruption, and Opportunity57:15 – The Importance of Praying for Revival01:00:10 – Jesus Movement Memories and Hopes for the Future01:03:45 – Why the Next Awakening Isn't Guaranteed for the Church01:07:10 – Why Christian Higher Education Still Matters01:12:20 – Northwest University’s Legacy and Impact01:17:15 – Dr. Castleberry’s Next Chapter: Washington D.C. and Ministry to Leaders01:22:40 – Georgetown Research, New Book Plans, and Latin American Influence01:27:30 – Final Reflections and Farewell to Seattle01:29:00 – Rapid Fire: What Are You Listening to, Reading, and Watching?01:32:00 – Closing Thoughts and GratitudeHere is a link to Dr. Castleberry's bookhttps://www.amazon.com/Sixth-Great-Awakening-Renewal-American/dp/B0DB2RXPRX/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3JDNVI4PW5E9R&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.We-uUEpKfVFekIKuyKT0t0XszZSEPwD8UUa75rWCghOCfBLR3Sccxod5n_oVJ91h5pezM8EbPFglL0Pf4FdxORZrVa6e-TlFZo9zNy-5gjSDQCzadWLtLHW_vGGmo1AxqVouzksGuqQbz-05GBRzqXIM3BJ_UiopU2lrt3dhVJA-UHpI3DksdJQ_n9ya6eveuicFsdG8dHD3DzmCNOahtbNxguhebU4CajkX8mBrtzY.miY4CmHHe3n_bFObg9CNB6YCeq5ZZmV0Id4d_0mMc6s&dib_tag=se&keywords=6th+great+awakening&qid=1750991180&sprefix=6th+great+%2Caps%2C165&sr=8-1

In this deeply honest episode of Pastors Unfiltered, Pastors Brandon Beals and Tony Mattar sit down with Sean King and Connor Takata to talk about the realities of bi-vocational ministry—the highs, the heartbreaks, and the holy tension between calling and career. Together, they explore: Why many pastors step away from full-time ministry, the emotional weight of transitioning to the secular workforce, what it means to be called—and how that calling evolves. How to balance work, family, finances, and faith why the church needs to rethink how we define ministry success from funny stories to raw reflection, this episode is for anyone in ministry, anyone called, and anyone wondering if they’re “doing enough” for God.00:00 – Intro banter: episode number confusion & salty podcast hosts02:40 – Meet Tim Cruickshank: former Navy SEAL and founder of Bonefrog Coffee05:30 – Tim’s military journey: SEAL teams, injuries, and retirement09:15 – Launching Bonefrog Coffee as a mission and business12:00 – Why entrepreneurship is spiritual warfare14:40 – The tension between faith and failure in business17:30 – Purpose-driven businesses and the story behind the Bonefrog name21:10 – Training in combat vs. life after the military25:15 – Leading with conviction: “We will not compromise”28:30 – The role of prayer and obedience in daily leadership31:00 – God’s guidance in business and what success really looks like34:00 – Raising kids to carry faith with integrity36:45 – Learning to listen to God’s voice as a man39:30 – Marriage, mission, and navigating hard seasons43:00 – Spiritual battles in entrepreneurial and political spheres46:00 – Tim’s view on America’s current spiritual condition48:20 – Tim’s hope for revival among men and fathers51:00 – What legacy looks like in war, family, and faith54:10 – Rapid fire: coffee origin, favorite SEAL memory, best advice57:00 – Final words from Tim & encouragement to listeners59:30 – Outro: how to support Bonefrog Coffee and closing remarks🔔 Subscribe and don’t miss a single unfiltered moment. 📲 Full episode available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube

This episode of Pastors Unfiltered features returning guest Marty Solomon, author, theologian, and host of the BEMA Podcast, and covers theology, cultural commentary, and some Vegas vacation advice — all in classic PU style.00:00 – Intro & Co-host Banter03:30 – Listener Feedback & Lecrae Episode Stats06:15 – Rant on Christian Music & Conversion Charts11:20 – Movie Review: "If" with John Krasinski & Natalie Portman15:50 – Guest Intro: Marty Solomon is back17:45 – Reflections on Marty's Sermon & Popularity of His Last Episode20:00 – Podcast Growth, Influence, and Being a Scholar23:00 – Lecrae Podcast vs. Pastors Unfiltered (fun comparisons)26:00 – Vegas Recommendations (Restaurants, Shows, Stadiums)31:20 – Theology Chat: Torah, Compassion, & Biblical Worldview35:00 – Genesis 1, Chiasm, and Creation Misconceptions38:15 – Immigration, Refugees, and the Christian Response42:40 – Navigating Cultural Melting Pots & Church Diversity45:15 – Samaritan Reversal: When the Outsider Saves You48:00 – Wokeness, Labels & Being Misunderstood in Ministry51:10 – Rebooting the BEMA Podcast: Why & What’s New56:00 – Marty’s Thoughts on the American Church59:30 – Pastoral Advice: How to Handle Political Pressure in Church1:03:00 – Christlike Character vs. Gifts of the Spirit1:05:30 – Fruit as the Result of Abiding in Jesus1:08:00 – Gen Z, Authenticity, and Church Leadership1:11:15 – Pastoring in Tension: Palestinian Friends & Bridge-Building1:13:00 – What’s Next for BEMA Podcast & Team Culture1:16:00 – Marty’s Reading, Watching, and Listening (Hint: Nickelback)1:19:30 – Farewell, Thank You & How to Support the PodcastFor more on BEMA podcast:https://www.bemadiscipleship.com/

On this week’s episode of Pastors Unfiltered, Pastor Tony and Pastor Brandon welcome longtime friends Pastors Troy and Jana Jones from New Life Church in Renton, WA. Together, they dive into everything from viral moments in the Seattle church scene, to the incredible unity and growth happening across the region, to what it really looks like to build a strong, lasting marriage in ministry. Troy and Jana unpack the heart behind their new book, The Mosaic Marriage: How Two Imperfect People Become One Masterpiece, sharing stories from their 36 years of marriage—including hard conversations, personality differences, raising kids, and leading side-by-side in church.00:00 – Intro: PB’s fresh Lecrae obsession02:30 – Lecrae’s backstory & recent influence05:15 – Why Lecrae’s words hit different now07:40 – The spiritual deconstruction conversation10:10 – Lecrae’s evolution: from rapper to prophet13:00 – When churches become culture clubs15:30 – Lecrae’s journey through criticism & canceling18:15 – How to tell when you're idolizing a system, not Jesus21:00 – Cultural Christianity vs. gospel-centered faith23:30 – PB shares the “nothing changes if nothing changes” sermon moment26:20 – The risk of making church comfortable instead of compelling29:00 – Jesus didn’t come to entertain – He came to transform31:15 – Tensions: love for the Church vs. critique of its culture33:30 – Tony’s thoughts on Lecrae as a theologian36:10 – Why Gen Z and Millennials are walking away38:40 – Christian celebrity vs. authentic witness42:00 – Discipleship: shaping hearts, not managing behavior44:30 – The Lecrae interview that sparked this episode47:00 – Tony’s closing: When the gospel feels more like a mirror than a badge49:00 – Outro: shoutout to Lecrae & future guestsThe Mosaic Marriage Book Here:https://www.amazon.com/Mosaic-Marriage-Imperfect-People-Masterpiece/dp/1964508320/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2KVS5ON3K1VI9&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.5r1GcUem-obV-MvHOjpjYmZCymC7BVYVt4_LhmrC8QTGjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.HnL7Cjs69dcij22wOdPV5A5SqlvKcfDkk-Gf3-91hSM&dib_tag=se&keywords=mosaic+marriage+troy+jones&qid=1749165534&sprefix=Mosaic+mar%2Caps%2C238&sr=8-1

In this packed (and hilarious) episode of Pastors Unfiltered, Pastors Brandon and Tony sit down with Christina Gilbreath—worship leader, teacher, and passionate voice in the prophetic. What starts with jokes about plaid shirts, bad camp showers, and TurboKick classes quickly turns into a powerful conversation on the prophetic, obedience to the Holy Spirit, and what revival really looks like in the local church today. Christina shares candid stories about stepping out in faith, getting it wrong (hello, “Tabitha”), and watching God move anyway. We talk about how to discern God’s voice, operate in spiritual gifts without weirdness, and why the fruit of the Spirit matters more than hype. Whether you're new to the prophetic or curious about how the Holy Spirit is working in churches today, this episode will both challenge and encourage you. Oh—and yes, Brandon and Tony do bring up that awkward marriage retreat moment. You’ll laugh, you’ll learn, and you might just want to start keeping bees.00:00 – Opening: “The Presence of God is Here”01:20 – God’s hand is moving — be aware and ready03:00 – Encouragement to receive fresh revelation05:15 – Don’t miss the window of divine opportunity07:40 – Prophetic insight: God is stirring your calling10:10 – A season of faith over fear is coming12:00 – You’re not being overlooked — He sees you13:45 – The voice of the Lord is getting louder15:30 – Your assignment is shifting — embrace it17:10 – Speak truth even when it costs you19:00 – A call to boldness in leadership21:00 – Let go of comfort — step into the new23:30 – God is breaking cycles of limitation25:50 – Freedom is on the other side of obedience28:00 – A new fire for the Word is being released30:10 – Closing declaration: “He is with you, go forward”

Welcome to another episode of Pastors Unfiltered!In this episode, Pastor Brandon shares his recent experiences visiting churches in Las Vegas—what inspired him, what surprised him, and what he took away from the trip. Meanwhile, Tony and Brandon dive into a hilarious and unexpected story involving… a mysterious metal cow that showed up on Brandon’s lawn. Yep, you read that right. Join us for real conversations, unfiltered moments, and a few laughs along the way.00:00 – Cold open: Raiders hat, interns, and fashion crimes03:15 – Gen Z vs Millennials: trends, vibes, and white church walls06:20 – Millennial pastors and the podcast Tony hated09:00 – Lecrae recap + Celebrate Recovery connections12:10 – Food talk: Korean chicken, Ezell’s, and Raising Cane’s15:00 – Dallas joins the pod team + Audrey gossip18:20 – Googling ourselves: the “other” Brandon Beals & Tony Matars21:15 – Vegas trip debrief: pastors, churches, and culture shock26:40 – Why Las Vegas? Lessons from visiting three churches30:00 – Tony’s takeaway: “I love Venture”32:30 – Brandon’s takeaway: We are blessed with our team35:10 – New kids pastor mindset & Sunday service as worship39:45 – Feedback from other churches: sound levels, lighting, culture43:30 – Reflections on church aesthetics and the “white walls” trend47:00 – Central’s baptism model & Venture’s vision for August51:00 – Celebrating together: All campuses, one mission54:40 – Beth’s plane evangelism stories (x2!)59:00 – Executive health check recap: PB’s Mayo Clinic results01:01:45 – The cow caper: Brandon’s yard surprise and community panic01:06:30 – Phone call: Confronting the cow thieves live on the pod01:13:10 – Shoutouts and summer podcast previews: guests, plans, ideas01:16:45 – Final thoughts: PB’s leadership, upcoming worship night