SCBA Leadership Podcast

In this unique episode, Dr. Matthew Singleton (Director of Missions for the SCBA) interviews Pastor David Segura. David follows up on a previous episode where he told of life growing up, joining a gang, selling drugs on the street and ending up in prison. In this episode he shares what life was like in prison after he became a Christian and the challenges of life when he got out. We ran out of time again so we will have another episode on his calling to ministry and his work as pastor of FBC Ganado.

How has a lack of husbands/fathers in the home and the spread of alcoholism affected the people of Guatemala?   What are the greatest needs of those living in financial poverty in this Central American country?   In this episode, Dr. Matthew Singleton (Director of Missions for the SCBA) interviews Jimmy and Charlyn Speed about their efforts to aid the spread of the gospel in Guatemala. Through Unica Vision Ministries and their missionary on the ground, they are building beds, providing funds for schooling, offering limited health care as a way to meet needs and open hearts. Learn more about Unica Vision Ministries at the link below: https://www.unicavision.org/

How can churches lead first time guests to become mission-aligned members?   In this episode, Dr. Matthew Singleton (Director of Missions for the SCBA) interviews Dr. Anthony Svajda, the Pastoral Ministries Associate for the Southern Baptists of Texas Convention. Dr. Svajda heads up the Regenesis effort to revitalize plateaued and declining churches. You can access his article/worksheet on assimilation and learn more about Regenesis at the links below: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1UzeEVGJ4KWjYKQj4dRd2jBFhvcAalb7x/view?usp=sharing https://sbtexas.com/church-regenesis/

How can Paul’s letter to the Ephesians help Christians today get the church inside of them?   In this episode, Dr. Matthew Singleton (Director of Missions for the SCBA) interviews Dr. Steven K. Parker, Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church Weslaco in South Texas. Dr. Parker is the author of a new book, Getting the Church Inside You: Balancing Faith and Action. You can purchase the book and find more resources at the links below: https://a.co/d/06qQ74ir https://www.drstevenparker.com

In this unique episode, Dr. Matthew Singleton (Director of Missions for the SCBA) interviews Pastor David Segura. David tells his story, coming from a good family but ending up as a drug dealing gang member who was in and out of prison. While behind bars he read Romans 5:8, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Though his journey to God came with many twists and turns, David found himself crying out in response to God’s grace: “Do you love even me, Lord?!” The resounding answer began to strip him of all guilt and shame. “Yes, David, even you.” But how did David go from a prisoner of sin and the state to a pastor? His story will continue in Part 2!

What’s the difference between a church security team and a safety team?   What should safety teams prioritize?   What resources exist to help them be successful in their ministry to the church and community?   In this podcast our Director of Missions, Dr. Matt Singleton, interviews Alfred Tanagho of FBC Schulenburg. Alfred brings knowledge, training, and practical wisdom to the world of church safety teams. Alfred has a treasure trove of resources, which he generously shares below…   Join the Faith Based Security Network - it is a non-profit organization which is a Christ focused Safety Ministry with a repository of best practices and the most experienced and helpful group of like-minded brothers and sisters. In my opinion, this is not a recommendation, this is a necessity and first step. The FBSN will help you navigate the process and will be your foundation for safety even after you have decades of experience.  https://www.fbsnamerica.com   Some of the member benefits when you join: How to set up a team Lessons learned - Incident After Action Reviews Saturday Zoom session - Current issues and concerns, What worked What didn't, Fellowship, Guidance on how to handle situations: i.e. Disruptive persons, Protestors, etc. Video Training Policy Templates And much more.   SOS.26 If you can only attend one event / training this year - these are the top subject matter experts in the country. From the smallest to the largest church in the country will be at this summit, Make sure to attend the Pre-Event Training on Tuesday and Wednesday before the Summit. Sign up early!!! You will get into details of incidents that are not available to the general public, but are necessary to understand and learn how to mitigate similar situations. https://www.fbsnamerica.com/events/security-operations-summit-2026   Statistics to help you understand the threat profile and to aid in your discussion with leadership: https://www.fbsnamerica.com/deadly-force-study   Paul Lake who founded Sentry One Consulting Group, here is one company we just used for training as we realign and grow our team. Excellent reality based training. Excellent presentations and ministry focused: https://sentryoneconsulting.com/   Sheepdog Church Security - one of the only online training programs https://sheepdogchurchsecurity.net/#   Here is an excellent and comprehensive book to get you up and running. There is an invaluable amount of experience packed into this book. These are not armchair authors, these men have been their, done it, and still doing it - they are the top in the House of Worship safety space. https://www.amazon.com/Watchful-Shepherd-Churchs-Complete-Blueprint/dp/B0G49M1PM2/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0   North American Rescue https://www.narescue.com professional medical trauma kits.

Where should the work of revitalization begin?   How and what should be celebrated when leading change?   What are some keys to making big shifts or starting major initiatives?   In this series we interview pastors who have been used of God to revitalize their church, bringing renewed health and vibrancy to a local congregation.   In this episode our Director of Missions, Matt Singleton, interviews Kevin Skinner, Lead Pastor of FBC Stockdale. Kevin shares the story of God’s work through prayer and an emphasis on children and student ministries as keys to a turn around.

What does an effective church planting process look like?   What are different models of church planting?   How can associations partner with state conventions and national entities to help with assessment and equipping of church planters?   In this episode our Director of Missions, Matt Singleton, interviews Morgan Malone, Executive Director of Denton Baptist Association. Morgan has worked with NAMB’s Send Network and is trained in equipping church planters.   See the process… Church Planting Process

What are 2 key questions you should ask someone before they volunteer?   What diagnostic question can you ask yourself to see how you are doing in raising up leaders?   What are red flags to pay attention to when evaluating potential leaders?   In this episode our Director of Missions, Matt Singleton, interviews Danny Rangel, BT-McAllen Campus Pastor. Danny has been in a variety of leadership roles at BT and was used of God to plant a church in New York City. He has recently transitioned from being the Young Adult Pastor to now overseeing BT’s McAllen campus. Danny has been instrumental in developing young leaders and has great insight on how it can be done in any context.

What are the root issues that are often under the problems many couples present?   How can the gospel help couples give grace to one another?   In this episode our Director of Missions, Matt Singleton, interviews Dr. Chad Schapiro and Dr. Erica Schapiro. The Schapiro's have served in the local church for many years and both earned advanced degrees focused on marriage and now they provide custom marriage conferences to churches. If you’re interested, you can contact them at the email below.    [email protected]

What are markers of true spiritual movements?   Why is it important for church leaders to discern these movements?   In this episode our Director of Missions, Matt Singleton, interviews Dr. Darrell Horn, Executive Director of the San Antonio Baptist Association. Dr. Horn spent 17 years writing “Discerning Spiritual Movements: Testing the Spirits.” You can get a copy on Amazon or by contacting the SABA office.   [email protected] https://a.co/d/0bAagS5Z

Why start a Christian school in a small town?   What are the benefits of a Christian education?   In this episode our Director of Missions, Matt Singleton, speaks with Corey Barnes, President of the School Board for Grace Community School in Runge, Texas and its School Director, Victoria Medina. GCS will begin their first semester in the fall of 2026! For more information, visit their website and FaceBook page…   https://www.gracecommunitytx.com/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581628146502# [email protected]

How can local churches, associations, state conventions and national entities work together to support the start of new churches? What are signs a person is ready to plant a church? In this particular episode Matt Singleton, Director of Missions for the SCBA, interviews Robby Partain, Executive Director for the Bluebonnet Association, and Dustin Wooten, the Church Planting Consultant for BBA and a church planter in the city of Schertz, Texas. BBA has a unique approach to church planting that has been honed in for over 25 years. They help partner church planters with local churches and state workers. A solid third of their active churches have been plants!

How can a seminary education be a benefit to ministers?   What are the obstacles to gaining an education and how can they be overcome?   On this episode of the SCBA Leadership Podcast, Matt Singleton (DOM for the SCBA) speaks with Dr. Joe Rangel, Director of Truett Seminary in San Antonio (house at Trinity Baptist Church’s campus). Dr. Joe Rangel previously served as interim dean of the School of Christian Studies and taught Christian Ministry at Wayland Baptist University. Prior to his time at Wayland, he served as executive pastor at First Baptist Church Weslaco. Dr. Rangel received a BA in political science from Southern Methodist University, an MDiv in mission/evangelism from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and a PhD from Biola University in intercultural education.   Truett San Antonio Preview Day -- Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 8:30-11:30 am Trinity Baptist Church 319 E Mulberry Ave San Antonio, TX 78212 United States https://grad.baylor.edu/register/sanantoniopreview

When is it time to close the doors of a church?   What should come of the resources they have left?   Who can help with this process?   What might a pastor or church member experience in the process of closing a church?   This episode is part of a short series on churches at risk. People may be few, funds may be low, facilities may be in disrepair and big changes are likely needed, but there is help available. If your church needs assistance in revitalization, replanting, adoption, fostering, merging, or closing the doors, don’t hesitate to reach out at [email protected].   In this particular episode Matt Singleton, Director of Missions for the SCBA, is joined by David Smith (Executive Director for Austin Baptist Association), Jon Smith (Executive Director for San Felipe Baptist Association) and Ryan Jespersen (Executive Director of Dallas Baptist Association) who spearheaded the conversation on church closures.

How should Christians view the protest that recently took place inside a house of worship?    What should churches do (and not do) if protesters interrupt their worship services?   What does the Bible say about how immigrants ought to be treated?   Where might faithful Christians disagree on the issue of illegal immigration?   On this episode of the SCBA Leadership Podcast, Matt Singleton (DOM for the SCBA) speaks with Nino Gonzales, the Director of Church Engagement and Senior Director of South Texas for the Church Ambassador Network of Texas. They are joined by Joshua Fuentes, pastor of Crestview Baptist Church in San Antonio.   The Gospel Coalition article–The FAQs: What Should Churches Do When Protest Enters the Sanctuary? https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/faqs-churches-protest-sanctuary/#:~:text=Don't%20wait%20for%20a,when%20specific%20threats%20are%20identified.

What is the difference between a church marriage (merger) and a church adoption?   What circumstances make a merger or adoption possible? What are warning signs it won’t work?   This episode is part of a short series on churches at risk. People may be few, funds may be low, facilities may be in disrepair and big changes are likely needed, but there is help available. If your church needs assistance in revitalization, replanting, adoption, fostering, merging, or closing the doors, don’t hesitate to reach out at [email protected].   In this particular episode Matt Singleton, Director of Missions for the SCBA, interviews Dr. James Nugent, the Director of Church Strategies with the South Carolina Baptist Convention. Joining in on the conversation is Dr. Jonathan Smith, Associate Director of the Texas Baptists Center for Church Health.

What does it look like for a struggling church to seek the help from a nearby, healthy church for a season?   Why should a healthy church consider fostering an at risk church and why should an at risk church consider being fostered?   This episode is part of a short series on churches at risk. People may be few, funds may be low, facilities may be in disrepair and big changes are likely needed, but there is help available. If your church needs assistance in revitalization, replanting, adoption, fostering, merging, or closing the doors, don’t hesitate to reach out at [email protected].   In this particular episode Matt Singleton, Director of Missions for the SCBA, interviews Dr. Ronny Marriott, Lead Pastor of FBC Richardson. Joining in on the conversation is Dr. Jonathan Smith, Associate Director of the Texas Baptists Center for Church Health.

When replanting, must a church go through leadership change? Must they change their name (should they take out denominational descriptors)? Should they relocate? These questions and much more are tackled in this conversation.    This episode is part of a short series on churches at risk. People may be few, funds may be low, facilities may be in disrepair and big changes are likely needed, but there is help available. If your church needs assistance in revitalization, replanting, adoption, fostering, merging, or closing the doors, don’t hesitate to reach out at [email protected].   In this particular episode Matt Singleton, Director of Missions for the SCBA, interviews Dr. Tom Howe, the Director of the Church Health & Growth with Texas Baptists. 

How can change leaders practice tactical patience?   What changes should be considered first when revitalizing?   In this series we interview pastors who have been used of God to revitalize their church, bringing renewed health and vibrancy to a local congregation.   In this particular episode Matt Singleton, Director of Missions for the SCBA, interviews Josh McDonald, pastor of FBC Arcadia. Josh made use of Texas Baptist's Pave Pathways. You can learn more at https://www.texasbaptists.org/ministries/church-health-and-growth.

How does Mission:Dignity help retired ministers, church workers and their widows who are struggling financially?   How much help is provided and who can qualify?   In this episode Matt Singleton (SCBA's DOM) interviews Denny Gorena, Director of Donor Relations for GuideStone's Mission:Dignity.    Learn more at: https://www.guidestone.org/Mission-Dignity

How can pastors prepare their congregations for the inevitability of conflict? What are the 5 principles of unity? In this short series we are taking a look at biblical, practical, and helpful ways of dealing with conflict in the church. In this particular episode, Matt Singleton (DOM for the SCBA) interviews Blake Coffee, Executive Director of the One Another Project and author of "Five Principles of Unity" and "Trusting God’s People…Again: A Pathway to Healing and Re-engaging in Ministry". https://www.oneanotherproject.com/five-principles-of-unity/  

Why do 97% of churches never replicate?   Why should churches start churches?   What is the five keys to having a healthy church DNA?   What are the 3 main reasons church plants fail?   In this episode Matt Singleton (SCBA's DOM) interviews Dr. Brian Harper, the Lead Church Planting Strategist at Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions. Brian has been a missionary and missions pastor for decades. To learn more from Brian and to find additional resources, you can visit https://plantalabama.org/. 

What does it look like when a church is in "maintenance mode" and what steps can be taken to get out of it?   What are some easy, low cost ways to engage the community?   What does change leadership cost a pastor and what fruit might they expect?   In this series we visit with pastors whom the Lord has used to help churches turn things around. We will discuss lessons learned, mistakes made, and hear stories of hope.   In this episode Matt Singleton (SCBA's DOM) interviews Dr. Shawn Brewer, pastor of FBC Paradise. After making good progress, Shawn partnered with the SBTC's Regenesis program which helps leaders revitalize their churches. You can learn more about Regenesis at https://sbtexas.com/church-regenesis/.

What are some clues that conflict is coming? How does a consumer mindset create conflict? How can leaders avoid escalation? In this short series we will take a look at biblical, practical, and helpful ways of dealing with conflict in the church. In this particular episode, Matt Singleton (DOM for the SCBA) interviews Jon Davis, the Executive Director for San Felipe Baptist Association (Rosenburg, Texas). Before entering vocational ministry Jon managed big box stores like Best Buy and Lowe's. He dealt with conflict every day and learned a lot that helped when pastoring and now as an associational leader.

Should all churches have a succession plan for their lead pastor? What does an effective plan look like?   What are the hidden dangers and significant upside to succession planning? In this episode Matt Singleton (DOM for the SCBA) interviews Dr. Josh Ellis (Executive Director for Union Baptist Association) and Dr. Ryan Jespersen (Executive Director for Dallas Baptist Association). With years of church and associational ministry experience, these leaders share their insights, which will help churches think about what a successful succession plan might look like in their context. Along the way they mentioned a few books to check out... Pastoral Transitions: A Seamless Hand Off of Leadership by Dr Gary Smith The Elephant in the Boardroom: How Leaders Use and Manage Conflict to Reach Greater Levels of Success by Edgar Papke

What are the frequent causes of church conflict? What are two keys for pastors when caught in church conflict? Is there any upside to conflict? In this short series we will take a look at biblical, practical, and helpful ways of dealing with conflict in the church. In this particular episode, Matt Singleton (DOM for the SCBA) interviews Dr. Aaron Summers, the Coordinator for Pastorless Churches for Texas Baptists. Dr. Summers has pastored for a number of years and is no stranger to church conflict. He has recently studied the issue deeply and is working on a writing project to help churches navigate conflict. Loads of practical and realistic advice for pastors and church members!

What key question should a pastoral candidate ask when being interviewed by a church in a revitalization situation?   What advantages does a bi-vocational pastor have in church revitalization?   In this episode Matt Singleton (SCBA DOM) interviews Felix Treviño, pastor of FBC Mathis. Felix is a bi-vocational pastor leading church revitalization in a small town, established church. Pastor Felix has made use of Texas Baptist's Pave Pathways. You can learn more at https://www.texasbaptists.org/ministries/church-health-and-growth.

What is a Christian response to the issue of abortion? What are the common reasons and rationale for abortion and how can they be overcome with Biblical truth and rational arguments? In this episode Matt Singleton (SCBA DOM) interviews Janice Weaver, Executive Director of the South Texas Pregnancy Care Center in Seguin, Texas, to discuss the Biblical, scientific, and rational reasons for the pro-life case.

What is Christian nationalism? How is the role of the church and the state different? How should Christians understand their relationship to the state? In this episode Matt Singleton (SCBA DOM) interviews Dr. Nick Acker, Co-Lead Pastor at Grace Church in Ventura, California. Nick is a native Texan, a graduate and now adjunct faculty at Stark College and Seminary. He is also the author of "Exegeting Orality: Interpreting the Inspired Words of Scripture in Light of Their Oral Traditional Origins"

Why would a pastor start an orphanage? How has this ministry started by Dr. Buckner developed over the almost 150 year history of Buckner International? How can churches learn from and partner with this great ministry? In this episode Matt Singleton interviews Dr. Albert L. Reyes, the sixth president and CEO of Buckner International. Previously, Dr. Reyes served as president of Buckner Children and Family Services. Prior to joining Buckner, Reyes was president of Baptist University of the Américas in San Antonio. Reyes has also served as pastor of three churches and has been involved in numerous roles with the Baptist General Convention of Texas, serving as its president in 2005. He currently serves as vice president of the Baptist World Alliance, USA Region. Reyes received a bachelor of business administration degree in management from Angelo State University, a master of divinity degree in theology and a doctor of ministry degree in missiology from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He also earned a doctor of philosophy degree in global leadership from from Andrews University.    Dr. Reyes is the author of three books: "The Jesus Agenda: Becoming an Agent of Redemption" (Believers Press, 2015) "Hope Now: Peace, Healing, and Justice When the Kingdom Comes Near" (Iron Stream Books, 2019) "Never Alone: The Power of Family to Inspire Hope" (Iron Stream Books, 2024). Learn more about Buckner International at www.buckner.org.

What is spiritual formation and how is it different than spiritual disciplines? What resources are helpful for both ministers and church members? In this episode Matt Singleton (SCBA DOM) interviews Dr. Matt Richard, pastor of FBC Llano, on the topic of spiritual formation. Matt earned his Doctorate of Ministry from Truett Seminary and his project focused on helping his church engage with spiritually forming practices and information.

Why is taking a vacation often not enough for ministers? What does ministry burnout look like and how can it be avoided? What FREE retreat resources are there for those in ministry? In this episode of the SCBA Leadership podcast we speak with Cory Brand, the co-founder and co-Executive Director of The Hiding Place, a unique ministry on Lake Brownwood. Cory and his wife, Amy, have served in church ministry for many years and desire to give ministers a respite from the rewarding and often challenging work of serving in a local church. Learn more about what they do at www.myhidingplace.rest! You can also follow The Hiding Place on FaceBook:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086930696926

What is reformed theology and how does it differ from Calvinism? Does God want everyone to be saved? If God has already chosen, why evangelize? In this episode Matt Singleton interviews Dr. Blake White (Southside BC, Abilene) who gives a Biblical, theological, and philosophical defense of Calvinism. Joining the conversation is Corey Barnes, Youth Pastor at FBC Runge.

How can ministry leaders raise up more ministry leaders within the local church? What should leaders look for when discipling those who may be called to ministry? In this episode Matt Singleton (SCBA's DOM) speaks with Rob Millman and Tim LaFleur. Rob and Tim help run an organization, "Follow the Call." Rob is passionate about evangelism, discipleship and church leadership. Tim is world class at equipping pastors, personally investing in the lives of pastors like Robby Gallaty and David Platt. For more information, visit www.followthecall.org! Get their book, "Follow the Call: For Those Aspiring to Christian Ministry and Pastors Mentoring Emerging Leaders"! Get Tim's book, "The Heart of a Disciplemaker: Building a Lasting Legacy Through Authentic Relationships"!

What can parents do to help their children and teens navigate the dangers of technology?   How should churches think about practical issues when it comes to ministering to those struggling with gender identity?   In this episode Matt Singleton (SCBA's DOM), RoseMary Vickery (Children & Missions Minister at FBC Kenedy) and Molly Gordon (Kids Ministry Director at FBC La Vernia) visit with Andrew Dealy, a licensed counselor and the Executive Director of the Austin Stone Counseling Center. He has helped many parents and leaders in children and student ministries think through issues around sexual identity, anxiety, and the impact of technology in the lives of kids and teens. You can learn more about Andrew and the counseling center at www.austinstone.org/counseling-team/andrew-dealy.

What options are there for churches who have less than 25 in attendance?   How can senior adults be the conduit through which vibrant ministry can be done?   In this series we visit with pastors whom the Lord has used to help churches turn things around. We will discuss lessons learned, mistakes made, and hear stories of hope.   In this episode we visit with Phillip Cole, pastor of Calvary Baptist Church in Smithville, Texas. This story is somewhat unique in that Calvary is more of a church plant than it is a revitalization or replant. Coming out of Calvary Baptist in Bastrop, Phillip and other leaders began forming a relationship with Trinity Baptist Church. Trinity was down to 20-25 members when they reached out to Calvary for help. The outcome was incredible! But it wasn't easy.

80% of guests need 7 connections to people within a given church community to become fully engaged. How can churches make those connections? Glenn Lackey is the Co-Founder and Co-President of First Blessing, which aims to provide church partners across Texas with the opportunity to share the love of Christ by providing resources and facilitating shoe ministry events. These events present opportunities for members of the church to engage in meaningful conversations with families in their local communities they might not encounter otherwise. Learn more at www.firstblessing.org For info on how you can receive Texas Baptist (BGCT) funds for local mission/outreach projects, visit www.texasbaptists.org/ministries/community-missions  

What does a disciple-making culture look like in the local church? What are some practical tools we can use to help make disciples who can disciple others? How can ministry leaders make discipleship reproducible and scaleable?  Where can leaders weave the message of disciple-making into the church? In this episode Matt Singleton (DOM of the SCBA) is joined by Josh Fuentes (Pastor of Crestview Baptist Church in San Antonio) and Keith Durham (Director of Concho Valley Baptist Association) to interview author and Pastor Kirk Freeman (CrossBridge Community Church in San Antonio). The focus of their conversation was around discipleship.   Threads: Weaving Disciple Making Into the Fabric of Your Life UPDATED VERSION disciplemakingthreads.com

How can leaders earn the needed trust to lead change? In this series we visit with pastors whom the Lord has used to help their church turn things around. We will discuss lessons learned, mistakes made, and hear stories of hope. In this episode, DOM Matt Singleton talks with Brad Mills, Senior Pastor of Central Baptist Church in Luling, Texas. Brad has served in this capacity since June 1, 2019. Before he came to Central, he served at churches in Texas and Alabama. He is a graduate of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary (M.Div., 2015), the University of South Alabama (B.S., Management, 2011) and a student in the Doctor of Ministry program at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.

What is Calvinism and what are its alternatives? Why has Calvinism grown so much lately? What does Romans really teach? If faith a gift or do we have the freedom to choose? In this episode DOM Matt Singleton talks with Dr. David L. Allen, Mid-America’s Distinguished Professor of Practical Theology and Dean of the Adrian Rogers Center for Biblical Preaching. Dr. Allen earned his MDIV from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Fort Worth, Texas, where he became the founding Dean of the School of Preaching and served as the Distinguished Professor of Preaching and as Director of the Center for Expository Preaching. He also held the George W. Truett Chair of Pastoral Ministry and served from 2004–2016 as the Dean of the School of Theology Dr. Allen earned his PhD from the University of Texas at Arlington, where he majored in Linguistics, preparation for using the principles of linguistics in exegesis and expository preaching. Practicing what he teaches and preaches, Dr. Allen has also pastored churches in Texas for more than 20 years. He is founder and editor-in-chief of the new preaching ministry and website, preachingcoach.com, a one-stop shop for all things preaching. Dr. Allen also has a personal blog site at drdavidlallen.com. You can order his latest book on Amazon:  Liberating Romans from Reformed Captivity: A Critical Evaluation of Calvinism’s Interpretation of Paul’s Letter.

What is a theology of creativity and play and how does youth sports fit within them? What are the problems with youth sports today and how can parents and ministers respond to them?   In this episode Matt Singleton is joined by Pastors Corey Barnes (FBC Runge) and Ryan Kurtz (FBC Floresville) to interview Dr. Drew Dabbs, pastor of FBC Hamilton. They unpack the doctoral work Dr. Dabbs on a Biblical framework for youth sports. 

How useful is personal testimonies in sharing our faith?   How can Christians use questions to help in evangelism?   In this episode Matt Singleton, Director of Missions for the South Central Baptist Area, visits with Eric Hernandez, Evangelism & Apologetics Lead with the Texas Baptists. Eric is an author and conference speaker on apologetics.   Check out the resources we mention in the podcast at the links below: The Lazy Approach to Evangelism: A Simple Guide for Conversing with Nonbelievers by Eric Hernandez Unapologetic Evangelism Conference www.erichernandezministries.com

What is discipleship? How can churches strategize for discipleship, from the parking lot to the area of service in the church? In this episode DOM Matt Singleton talks with Dr. David Hardage, the Director of Church Engagement for Texans On Missions. David has also served many years in the pastorate and as the Executive Director for Texas Baptists (BGCT). In this conversation we talk about the ins and outs of discipleship in the local church.

What are the different kinds of teams in ministry and how are they unique? What is "psychological safety" and why is it important on a team? How can teams improve their communication and why is it important? In this episode Matt Singleton, Director of Missions for the South Central Baptist Area, is joined by Dr. Michael Godfrey, founder & president of TRUE COURSE. He is also the author of Without Regret: Be More, See More, and Achieve More that Really Matters and Put Stress to Work: Turning Headaches into Advantages. Michael holds a Doctorate of Philosophy from the Baylor University and a Doctor of Ministry degree in church and education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.   https://discoveryourtruecourse.com/about-us/

How can pastor respond faithfully in the face of a crisis?   What should church leaders expect in the aftermath of tragedy?   What can pastors do now to prepare for a day they hope will never come?     In this episode Matt Singleton, Director of Missions for the South Central Baptist Area, interviews Dr. John Crowder who has served as the pastor of FBC West for over three decades. During his tenure, a crisis struck his town. A building caught fire at the West Fertilizer Company storage and distribution facility in West. It led to an ammonium nitrate explosion occurred that leveled about half the town. In his new book, Anchor Point: How To Lead with Faith, Find Strength, and Rebuild with Hope After Crisis, he explains what he learned as he reflects on the challenges of navigating the immediate response and subsequent recovery and rebuilding efforts.    

Why did Matt start a podcast?   What surprised Matt about being a DOM?   What does Matt miss about pastoring?   What words of encouragement (and challenge!) might Matt give to pastors? What about to church members?   In this episode Dr. Walter Jackson turns the tables on podcast host Matt Singleton. Walter, a fellow DOM for the Guadalupe Baptist Association (Victoria, Texas), interviews Matt and, perhaps, gets more than he bargained for!   By the way, go check out the Annual Meeting + Church Conference page on the SCBA website to learn more about this exciting event coming up on October 11th at FBC Gonzales.    www.southcentralarea.net/annual  

How can ministry leaders prepare their members to understand and interact with AI? How can a Biblical understanding of the imago dei aid Christians in their view of AI? What is the upside and what are the downsides to AI?   In this episode Matt Singleton, Director of Missions for the South Central Baptist Area, visits with Dr. Katie Frugé. Joining in on the conversation is Pastor Jeremy Pritchett (FBC Kenedy) and Pastors Roland Contreras and Eric Rachui from The Grove Baptist Church in Orange Grove, Texas. Dr. Frugé serves as the Director of the Center for Cultural Engagement and the Director of the Christian Life Commission. She holds both an M-Div. and Ph.D. Her doctorate focused on the image of God, which she believes is foundational for a holistic understanding of advocacy and human dignity and worth. Since joining the CLC, she has worked to help highlight various issues surrounding cyclical poverty including food insecurity, education disparities, racial reconciliation, and access to healthcare. She is also a stomach cancer survivor, special needs parent, broadway enthusiast, coffee drinker, and busy mom to three young daughters. Article on AI Blackmail

What are a few keys to giving input on selection of ministerial staff? How can you work well with existing staff? How can the lead pastor dismantle silos and help everyone stay on the same page? In this episode Matt Singleton, Director of Missions for the South Central Baptist Area, is joied by Pastor Dr. Josh Breslaw and Pastor Justin Lopez (FBC La Grange) as they interview Dr. Dennis Wiles, Senior Pastor of FBC Arlington.

How does the South Texas Children's Home Ministries help single moms and children in need of a home?   What opportunities are there for children who age out of STCHM after high school graduation?   What's it like to be a primary or relief house parent at STCHM?   In this episode Matt Singleton, Director of Missions for the South Central Baptist Area, visits with Joel Bowden, Boothe Campus Director at STCHM.    Check out the resources we mention in the podcast at the links below: Campus Ministries at STCHM Apply to be a House Parent