The Pulpit and Porch

Why would someone step into one of the most challenging and scrutinized arenas in our country?In this episode of The Pulpit & Porch, we sit down with speaker, storyteller, and U.S. Senate candidate Thomas Dismukes for a real, thoughtful conversation about leadership, calling, and what it means to step into something bigger than yourself.Thomas shares his journey, where he came from, the experiences that shaped him, and the moment he felt called to pursue something he never originally planned: running for U.S. Senate.This isn’t a political debate.It’s a conversation about:• Leadership and responsibility• Faith in the public square• The cost of stepping forward• Navigating pressure, criticism, and expectations• What drives someone to say “yes” to something this bigWhether you follow politics closely or not, this episode is about something deeper: what it looks like to respond when your calling stretches you beyond your comfort zone.The Pulpit & Porch — real conversations about life, faith, and purpose.

What does it cost to be honest?In this episode of The Pulpit & Porch, we sit down with artist and storyteller Trevor Wentt for one of our most powerful and personal conversations to date.Trevor opens up about his childhood growing up in Virginia Beach in a broken home, being raised by a hardworking single mom, and navigating the realities of poverty, all while holding onto a deep and genuine faith in Jesus.That journey eventually brought him to East Tennessee and North Carolina, where he pursued education and stepped into ministry. But what he encountered there challenged him in ways he didn’t expect.Trevor shares his experiences with racism, including within the church, and the growing realization that while he felt called to ministry, he didn’t feel the support or freedom to say what he believed needed to be said.At some point, he had to make a decision:Stay in a system where he felt limited…or step away and speak the truth freely. He chose truth.We talk about:• Growing up in poverty and how it shaped his faith• Racism and real-life experiences in the church• Feeling misunderstood in spaces you thought you belonged• Leaving ministry in the church to pursue another calling• Why honesty was non-negotiableThis isn’t just a conversation about ministry.It’s about identity.It’s about truth.And it’s about what it costs to live in both.If you’ve ever felt out of place… misunderstood… or torn between calling and environment, this episode will resonate.The Pulpit & Porch — real conversations about life, faith, and purpose.Connect with Trevor: @T_wentt on all social media channels

The world feels uncertain right now… so how are you supposed to respond?In Part 2 of this two-part conversation, we move from confusion to clarity.After breaking down what’s happening and why it feels so heavy in Part 1, this episode is all about what actually matters next. How you live, think, and respond in the middle of uncertainty.Because while you can’t control global events…you can control how you show up.In this episode, we talk about:What you should (and shouldn’t) do when things feel unstableHow to prepare without panickingWhy fear distorts your thinking, and how to push back against itPractical ways to stay grounded in your daily lifeHow faith shapes your response when you don’t have answersThis isn’t about ignoring reality.It’s about responding to it wisely.If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or unsure what to do next, this conversation will help you reset, refocus, and move forward with clarity.The Pulpit & Porch PodcastReal conversations. Front porch honesty. Faith, life, and purpose, without the noise.Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThePulpitandPorch

What’s actually happening in the world right now… and why does it feel so heavy?In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, we step into the tension so many people are feeling, but few know how to process.From rising oil prices and economic pressure to global conflict, uncertainty, and nonstop headlines, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, anxious, and unsure of what to believe.But instead of reacting… we slow down.In this episode, we talk about:What people are really afraid of right nowWhy global events feel more personal than everSimple explanations behind complex headlines (like oil supply and rising costs)And the honest truth about what we don’t actually knowThis isn’t a political breakdown.It’s a conversation about clarity, fear, and learning how to think wisely in a noisy world.Because you don’t need to know everything…to live wisely in something.The Pulpit & Porch PodcastReal conversations. Front porch honesty. Faith, life, and purpose, without the noise.Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThePulpitandPorch

If you haven’t listened to Part 1 yet… go back. Seriously.Because in this episode, we’re not easing in, we’re going straight to the heart of it.We all say we feel “stuck.” Stuck in life. Stuck in our calling. Stuck in our habits. But what if that’s not actually true?What if the thing we’ve been calling “stuck”… is actually avoidance?In Part 2 of this conversation, we go deeper. This is where it gets honest. This is where it gets uncomfortable. And this is where real change actually begins.We talk about:Why avoidance feels safer than actionThe subtle ways we lie to ourselvesHow fear disguises itself as confusionAnd what it actually looks like to take your next stepThis isn’t about shame. It’s about clarity. Because once you can name it… you can change it.You’re not stuck.You’re avoiding.And deep down, you already know it.🎙️ The Pulpit & Porch PodcastReal conversations. Front porch honesty. Faith, life, and purpose, without the fluff.📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThePulpitandPorch

Most people don’t have a clarity problem.They have a courage problem.In this episode of The Pulpit & Porch, we tackle a hard truth:You’re probably not stuck…you’re avoiding something.The conversation you don’t want to have.The decision you’ve been delaying.The step you know you need to take.Instead, we scroll.We overthink.We “prepare.”We stay busy just enough to feel productive… but never actually move.In this episode, we unpack:• Why we stay in jobs we’ve outgrown• Why hard conversations feel so intimidating• How distraction and entertainment quietly fuel avoidance• The connection between avoidance, anxiety, and confidence• The spiritual cost of delayed obedience• How to actually take your next step (even if you don’t feel ready)If you’ve ever felt stuck, this episode might challenge that idea… in the best way.Because the life you want might not be on the other side of more information, it might be on the other side of one hard decision.Listen now, and share this with someone who’s been saying “I’m stuck.”

Some people are impressive because of what they’ve done.Others are compelling because of who they are.Robert Jones is both.He’s a PhD archaeologist.A professor.A business owner who runs veterinary clinics.A black belt in Hapkido.An author.And now… a candidate for the United States Senate.But this episode isn’t about politics.It’s about something deeper.It’s about curiosity, and what happens when you refuse to live in just one lane.It’s about discipline, and the quiet systems that shape a meaningful life.It’s about leadership, and the weight of caring for people well.And most of all, it’s about character, the kind that doesn’t need a label to be real.This is a conversation about what it actually looks like to live a life of purpose, integrity, and impact, across seasons, careers, and callings.If you’ve ever felt stuck…If you’ve ever wondered what else you’re capable of…If you’ve ever asked what really makes a life meaningful…Pull up a chair.You’re going to enjoy this one.

Most people don’t build their lives.They drift into them.Career.Relationships.Money.Reputation.From the outside, it can all look solid.But what happens when pressure hits?In this episode, we break down the architecture of a meaningful life, not as separate pieces, but as connected, load-bearing walls:• Career — a tool, not an identity• Relationships — the support system that stabilizes everything• Faith & character — the hidden infrastructure• Health — the overlooked pillar that carries it allBecause if one collapses… the others feel it.We talk about:• Why most people build their lives in the wrong order• The difference between success and stability• How high-capacity people quietly drift into imbalance• The rhythms that actually sustain a life long-term• The hard question most people avoidThis isn’t about building something impressive.It’s about building something that lasts.

In Part Two of our conversation on phones and distraction, we move from awareness to action.If your phone is shaping you, how do you take your attention back?In this episode, we talk about:• Practical ways to reduce digital distraction• Why discipline beats motivation• How to rebuild depth in a distracted world• Creating rhythms that protect focus• The role of silence and boredom• How to live intentionally instead of reactivelyThis isn’t about deleting everything and moving off-grid.It’s about formation.Your attention is your life.And if you don’t decide where it goes, something else will.

Most of us don’t have a time problem.We have an attention problem.In Part One of this conversation, we begin unpacking the unseen formation happening every time we reach for our phones.We scroll when we’re bored.We scroll when we’re stressed.We scroll when we don’t want to think.But what is that doing to us?In this episode, we talk about:• Why attention is your most valuable resource• How algorithms quietly shape your worldview• The spiritual cost of constant distraction• Why comparison erodes confidence• What happens when we eliminate silenceYour phone isn’t evil.But it is powerful.And whether you realize it or not, it’s shaping you.Part Two drops next week.

If people depend on you… This episode is for you.In this conversation with Jamin Rathbun, we talk about the hidden weight carried by high-capacity people, leaders, parents, business owners, coaches, pastors, and the “steady ones” everyone else relies on.Why do the most responsible people often have no one responsible for them?We unpack:The pressure of being the reliable oneWhy strong people quietly burn outWhat pastoral care actually meansWhy busyness can be avoidanceThe difference between having friends and being truly knownHow to build a life that can hold the weight you’re carryingThis isn’t about weakness.It’s about wisdom.You can be competent and still need care.You can be strong and still need support.And if no one is checking on your soul… it might be time to ask why.

There are moments in life that change everything.In this episode of The Pulpit & Porch, we sit down with Jennifer Schoondyk from Karis Heart Foundation to talk about loss, faith, and what it looks like to move forward when your world has been shaken.Jennifer shares the story behind Karis Heart Foundation and how tragedy became a calling. This is not just a conversation about grief, it’s about purpose, community, and how God can redeem even the most painful chapters of our story.If you’ve ever wondered:How do you keep your faith when life doesn’t make sense?What does healing actually look like?Can something beautiful come from something devastating?Pull up a chair. Grab a glass of sweet tea. This is a front-porch conversation you won’t forget.About Karis Heart FoundationKaris Heart Foundation exists to honor Karis’ life by supporting families and spreading hope through tangible acts of love and service.Learn more or connect:https://[email protected] Pulpit & Porch PodcastHonest conversations about life, faith, leadership, and purpose — all from a Christian worldview.Subscribe & share with someone who needs this story.

This week, we’re back with our annual Super Bowl follow-up, the one episode everyone seems to want to talk about the next day, whether they watched the game or not.We’ll unpack:The game itself - not just the score, but what it reveals about how connected we get to sports and story.The commercials - the mini cultural sermons that tell us a lot about what brands think will move us, shape us, and define shared moments.  The halftime show - including the conversation around Bad Bunny’s performance that drew massive viewership and equally massive debate about culture, identity, and artistry.  A look at the alternative halftime event (Turning Point USA’s show) and what it says about cultural fragmentation and audiences self-sorting.  We’re not just reacting, we’re unpacking what these moments say about us, what we celebrate, what we defend, and what we consume. Whether you loved it, hated it, or couldn’t care less, there’s something here for you.Pull up a chair… this one’s fun, thoughtful, and maybe a little controversial.Subscribe, drop a review, and share it with someone who needs to have this conversation too.#SuperBowl #HalftimeShow #BadBunny #SuperBowlCommercials #CultureChat #Podcast

This week didn’t go according to plan.A foot of snow.Roads shut down.Driveway blocked.Guest canceled.Momentum paused.And it got us thinking…What happens when life slams on the brakes and you don’t get a vote?In this episode, we talk about forced pauses, the ones we didn’t schedule and wouldn’t have chosen. The moments when plans stall, control slips, and we’re left sitting still whether we like it or not.We unpack:Why we resist slowing downWhat stillness reveals that busyness hidesHow pauses can recalibrate what actually mattersAnd how to re-enter life differently when the road opens back upSometimes the delay isn’t a punishment.Sometimes it’s protection.Sometimes it’s preparation.If you’re feeling stuck, snowed in, delayed, or just tired of pushing, this conversation is for you.Pull up a chair.If this episode encouraged you:• Subscribe• Leave a review• Share it with someone who might need permission to slow downWe’ll see you next week, right here onThe Pulpit & Porch.#FaithInRealLife #Leadership #PersonalGrowth #ChristianPodcast #SlowingDown #PurposeInThePause

Most people don’t fail because they’re unqualified.They fail because they never start.In this episode of The Pulpit & Porch Podcast, we sit down with Dylan Shelton to talk about the courage it takes to take the first step, especially when you don’t feel ready, equipped, or certain about the outcome.We talk about:Why waiting for “perfect timing” is usually just fear in disguiseWhat actually happens when you take the first step before you feel readyThe quiet momentum that comes from obedience over confidenceWhy starting small can still change everythingThis is a front-porch conversation for anyone who’s been stuck in the almost, the someday, or the what-if. If you’ve been waiting for permission, clarity, or a sign, this might be it.So… why not start?Connect with Dylan Shelton & Mobile MinistriesInstagram: @Mobileministries1TikTok: @mobile.ministriesYouTube: @mobileministries1Connect with The Pulpit & Porch PodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/pulpitandporchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/pulpitandporch/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThePulpitandPorchIf this conversation encouraged you, challenged you, or gave you the nudge you needed, share it with a friend and join us back on the porch next week.

This week on The Pulpit & Porch, we sit down with Brett Catrett, a business owner, husband, and dad who lives his life on mission, even when the road takes unexpected turns.What started as an RV adventure and homeschooling journey turned into a surprising calling to East Tennessee. Then came business struggles, a difficult move back to Florida, and eventually… a return to the very place God first stirred their hearts.In this conversation, Brett shares what it looks like to walk in faith when obedience doesn’t lead to easy answers, how purpose is shaped through setbacks, and why God often uses detours to deepen our trust.If you’ve ever wondered:• Did I hear God right?• What if obedience costs more than I expected?• Can purpose survive disappointment?This episode is for you.Pull up a chair, grab some sweet tea, and join us for a real, honest conversation about faith, calling, and trusting God with every chapter of your story.#ThePulpitAndPorch#FaithJourney#CallingAndPurpose#ChristianPodcast#LivingOnMission#RealFaith#FrontPorchConversations

In Part 1, we talked about how not every moment becomes a story, but in Part 2, we go deeper.This episode is all about the truth beneath the event. The part we usually skip. The part that makes us uncomfortable. The part that actually changes us.Tony unpacks how real stories aren’t built on what happened, but on what was revealed about ourselves, our faith, and the way God shapes us through everyday moments. We talk about why some stories fall flat, how reflection gives our experiences meaning, and why Jesus taught with stories instead of explanations.If you’ve ever wondered whether your story matters…If you’ve ever rushed past the hard part to get to the lesson…If you’ve ever felt like your story wasn’t “big enough”…This conversation is for you.Pull up a chair, grab some sweet tea, and let’s talk about the story beneath the story.#ThePulpitAndPorch#FindingTheKernelOfTruth#FaithAndStories#ChristianPodcast#Storytelling#FrontPorchFaith#RealConversations#FaithInRealLife

Most of us think the story is the event.The trip. The moment. The experience.But what if the real story isn’t what happened…It’s what it revealed?In Part One of this conversation, Robert puts Tony in the hot seat to talk about why some stories stick with us, and others fade fast. They unpack the difference between an account and a story, explore what Tony calls the “colonel of truth,” and wrestle with why meaning isn’t found in the moment itself, but in what it changes inside us.Along the way, they hit on vulnerability, reflection, faith, and why the most powerful stories usually cost the teller something. Plus, they bring back the fan-favorite Porch Picks segment with a mix of laugh-out-loud takes and “wait… that actually hit” moments.Pull up a chair.The porch is open.#ThePulpitAndPorch #FrontPorchFaith #StorytellingMatters #FaithAndLife #ChristianPodcast #TruthOrTrash #RealTalk #FaithConversations #MeaningOverMoments #PorchTalk

As the new year begins and the noise quiets, we do something that feels both rare and necessary: we pause.In this episode of The Pulpit & Porch, we take a look back with gratitude. Not a highlight reel. Not a victory lap. Just an honest reflection on what this year gave us, what it took from us, and what it taught us along the way.We talk about the moments worth celebrating, the lessons we didn’t ask for, and why gratitude isn’t about pretending everything was good, but recognizing that God was present in all of it. We also share how this season of reflection is shaping the direction of the show, the conversations ahead, and why we believe these front-porch conversations matter now more than ever.Grab a cup of coffee.Take a seat on the porch. Let’s look back with gratitude, and forward with hope.#ThePulpitAndPorch,#LookingBackWithGratitude,#EndOfYearReflection,#FaithAndLife,#ChristianPodcast,#GratitudePractice,#ReflectAndReset,#FrontPorchConversations,#FaithInEverydayLife,#HopeForTheNewYear

Christmas is technically over…but the feelings aren’t.The decorations are still up.The house is quieter.And we’re left in that strange space between what was and what’s next.In this porch conversation, we go back to the Christmas TV specials many of us grew up with, not for nostalgia, but for meaning.Charlie Brown.The Grinch.Rudolph.Why do these stories still resonate after the gifts are opened?Why does Linus drop the blanket at “Fear not”, and then use that same blanket to hold together a broken little tree?And what do these simple stories teach us about fear, fragility, and hope as we stand on the edge of a new year?This episode is for the quiet week after Christmas.For the tired ones.For the reflective ones.For anyone who knows the magic fades, but the meaning doesn’t.Pull up a chair.Let’s talk about the stories that still preach, especially when the season winds down.#ChristianPodcast #FaithInCulture #ChristmasStories #CharlieBrownChristmas #MeaningfulConversations

This week, it’s just Tony on the porch. No co-host, no script, just a heart-to-heart about the season we all feel differently each year. With Christmas just two days away, the pressure, the exhaustion, the “shoulds,” and even the grief can feel heavier than the holiday cards promise.In this solo episode, we pull back the curtain on the myth of the “perfect Christmas” and explore what the first Christmas really looked like: messy, inconvenient, ordinary… and yet, miraculous. Through personal stories, biblical reflection, and a gentle reminder to pause, breathe, and notice God’s presence, we’ll discover that Christmas isn’t about perfection; it’s about presence.If you’re tired, overwhelmed, grieving, or just feeling like Christmas isn’t “your Christmas” this year, this conversation is for you. Pull up a chair, pour a cup of cocoa, and let’s explore why the ordinary, messy, and unexpected moments might be exactly where God wants to meet you this season.#PulpitAndPorch #Christmas2025 #FaithfulChristmas #GodInTheMess #PresenceOverPerfection

This week on The Pulpit & Porch, Tony and Robert do something a little different… and a whole lot of fun. We’re talking Christmas movies, the ones we grew up on, the ones we quote all year long, and the ones that somehow manage to preach a better sermon than half the stuff we’ve heard on Sunday mornings.The guys reveal their official Top 10 Christmas Movies of All Time (and yes, we’re sure you’ll disagree with at least three of them), and then we take a deep dive into The Polar Express, a film that just might be one of the clearest Gospel stories Hollywood has ever produced. From the Boy Who Doubts, to the Conductor calling people onto the train, to Santa as a picture of the Father, and the Hobo as the Holy Spirit guiding, convicting, and nudging… there’s a lot more going on beneath those train tracks than meets the eye.We talk faith, imagination, wonder, belief, Christmas nostalgia, and what these stories can teach us about the season we’re actually celebrating.So grab a mug of cocoa, put on your comfiest Christmas socks, and come join us on the front porch.Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a friend, it really does help!#PulpitAndPorch #ChristmasMovies #PolarExpress #GospelInMovies #FaithAndFilm #Top10ChristmasMovies #ChristianPodcast #ChristmasPodcast #Believe #FrontPorchConversations #TonyAndRobert #SweetTeaAndStories

Christmas isn’t a mood.It’s not a memory.And it’s definitely not just a moment.It’s a miracle.In this final episode of our Advent mini-series, we light the Love candle and gather around the Christ candle, the center of the wreath and the center of our faith. We talk about what it really means to live a life shaped by God’s love, and why the birth of Jesus wasn’t sentimental… it was sacrificial.On today’s porch, we explore:What Advent Love actually looks like inside real familiesWhy Christmas isn’t just about gifts, but about God with usHow Jesus didn’t shout His love from heaven , He wrapped it in skin and moved into the neighborhoodWhat it means to slow down long enough to actually receive Christ, not just celebrate HimIf this season has felt rushed, noisy, or heavy, this episode is your invitation to breathe again.Pull up a chair.Light the candle.And make room for Jesus.Front Porch Challenge:This week, choose one intentional act of love as a family. It doesn’t have to be big, just honest. Then ask, “Where did we see God’s love today?”If this episode encouraged you, make sure to follow The Pulpit & Porch Podcast on Facebook and Instagram. Subscribe wherever you listen and share this episode with a friend who needs a reminder of what Christmas is really about. Let’s keep the conversation going, we’d love to hear how your family experienced Advent this year!#ThePulpitAndPorch #AdventSeries #ChristCandle #ChristmasHope #AdventLove #JesusIsTheCenter #FaithAndFamily #WaitingWell #ChristmasMessage #ChristianPodcast #GodWithUs #Incarnation #LoveCameDown #FrontPorchFaith

Advent is more than a countdown to Christmas; it’s an invitation to slow down, look up, and lean into what really matters.In Part Two of our Advent mini-series, we’re talking about two words we all crave this time of year… peace and joy. But if we’re honest, December often delivers stress, exhaustion, and noise instead.So what does it look like to experience real peace in a chaotic season?And how do you hold onto joy when life (and your haircut) doesn’t turn out the way you planned?In this episode, we explore:What biblical peace actually is (and what it isn’t)Why joy and happiness are not the same thingHow Advent invites us to receive peace, not produce itWhy joy is deeper than mood, and stronger than disappointmentAnd yes… Tony shares a painfully funny story about the worst haircut of his lifeSo grab your coffee, settle in, and join us on the porch as we talk about peace that holds you together, and joy that refuses to leave.#ThePulpitAndPorchPodcast, #Advent, #WaitingWell, #PeaceAndJoy, #FaithInEverydayLife, #ChristianPodcast, #HolidayPeace

Christmas can feel chaotic, rushed, and full of pressure, but Advent offers a different way. In Part One of our Advent series on The Pulpit & Porch Podcast, Tony and Robert explore what Advent really is, why it matters, and how it can anchor your family in the middle of the holiday whirlwind.We talk about the history and theology of Advent, the two horizons of waiting for Christ, and how this season can slow us down, reconnect us with the story, and create meaningful rhythms that stick with our families long after the season ends.Pull up a chair, grab a cup of something warm, and join us as we rediscover the art of waiting well.#Advent #FamilyFaith #ChristianPodcast #WaitingWell #PulpitAndPorch #FaithAtHome #PorchConversations #AdventSeason #ChristmasPreparation #JesusIsComing #ChristianLiving

Grab a seat on the porch and pour a glass of sweet tea. In this episode, Tony and Robert sit down for a front-porch conversation about the things we wish we had learned earlier in life, leadership, faith, and family.From the lessons that came the hard way, to the truths that finally clicked years later, to the wisdom we’re still learning in real time, this is an open, reflective, and surprisingly funny look at the road behind us and the road still ahead.Whether you’re in your 20s or your 60s, this episode will challenge you, encourage you, and remind you that God wastes nothing, not even our slow learning curves.Pull up a chair and join the conversation.#ThePulpitAndPorch #Podcast #ChristianPodcast #FaithAndLife #ThingsWeWishWeKnewSooner #Leadership #PersonalGrowth #SpiritualGrowth #FrontPorchConversations #LifeLessons #Purpose #HopeAndHumor #Encouragement

Baseball isn’t just a game, it’s life in nine innings. In this episode, Tony (the proud Dodgers fanatic) and Robert (the loyal Braves man) step up to the mic to talk about the 2025 World Series, the greatest Game 7 in recent memory, and how baseball mirrors the beauty and struggle of life itself.From perseverance and momentum swings to heartbreak and jubilation, this conversation is about more than home runs; it’s about hope that never dies, the moments that change everything, and the grace to keep stepping up to the plate.Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just love a good story, this episode will make you laugh, reflect, and maybe believe that baseball, like faith, is poetry in motion.Because sometimes, the best sermons are preached from the dugout. Grab your sweet tea, pull up a chair on the porch, and join the conversation.#ThePulpitAndPorch #Dodgers #BaseballAndFaith #Game7 #LifeLessons #NeverQuit #HopeAndHeartbreak #PoetryInMotion #FaithAndFandom #DodgerBlue #BravesCountry #FromThePorch #BaseballIsLife

We’ve been called “grumpy old men”… and honestly, they’re not wrong. This week, Tony and Robert swap reading glasses for microphones and dive into the hilarious (and slightly painful) signs that we might be getting old, from groaning when we stand up to getting way too excited about new appliances.But it’s not all jokes, we also talk about what aging has taught us about purpose, peace, and learning to laugh at ourselves along the way.If you’ve ever said, “They don’t make music like they used to,” this one’s for you.Listen to The Pulpit & Porch now, and don’t forget to like us on Facebook and Instagram, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts, and share this episode with a friend who’s still pretending to be 29.#ThePulpitAndPorch #GettingOld #FunnyPodcast #AgingWithHumor #GrumpyOldMen #LifeLessons #FaithAndLife #PodcastLife #LaughOutLoud #Storytelling #HumorAndFaith #PodcastCommunity

We all carry stories inside our heads, beliefs about who we are, what we can do, and what God can do through us. Some of these stories empower us… others hold us back.In this episode, Tony and Robert explore the internal narratives that shape our lives, how to spot the ones that are holding us back, and practical ways to rewrite them in light of God’s truth.If you’ve ever thought, “I’m not enough” or “It’s too late for me,” this episode is for you. It’s about hope, perspective, and taking the next step toward living the story God wants for you.Listen to The Pulpit & Porch now, and don’t forget to like us on Facebook and Instagram, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts, and share this episode with someone who needs a reminder that their story isn’t over.#ThePulpitAndPorch #TheStoriesWeTellOurselves #FaithAndLife #PodcastLife #Storytelling #HopeAndFaith #MindsetMatters #LifeLessons #FaithJourney #PodcastCommunity #RewriteYourStory

They say, “It’s the hope that kills you.” But Ted Lasso, and maybe the Gospel, would disagree.This week on The Pulpit & Porch, Robert finally gets his wish: Tony watched Ted Lasso. And not only did he love it, he found a sermon hiding inside a soccer (or football) match. From the locker room to the living room, we’re unpacking what hope really means, why it’s so hard to hold onto, how it shapes our faith, and why sometimes it hurts before it heals.Along the way, we talk about the difference between fragile hope and grounded hope, what we’ve learned from past guests like Jodi Ramey and Andrew Carrier, and how to keep hoping when life doesn’t play by the rules.Whether you’re a Ted Lasso superfan or just someone who needs a reminder that hope still wins, pull up a chair, grab a biscuit, and join us on the porch.Follow @ThePulpitAndPorch on Facebook & Instagram for more honest, hope-filled conversations.#ThePulpitAndPorch #TedLasso #Hope #Faith #Podcast #Encouragement #ChristianPodcast #LifeLessons #Leadership #Perseverance #HopeWins

This week on The Pulpit & Porch, we pick up right where we left off with Jodi Ramey, and this time, her sister Bethany Wilson pulls up a chair to join the conversation.If Part One was the story, Part Two is the soul. At the heart of their story is a simple family phrase,“Not quit.” More than a motto, “not quit” has become their family’s reminder that the story isn’t over yet. Whether you’re fighting through a setback, waiting on an answered prayer, or just trying to hang on, this episode will remind you that God isn’t finished with you either.This episode is for anyone who’s tired, waiting, or wondering if God’s still working. Because sometimes the greatest act of faith is just taking one more step forward.So grab your sweet tea, settle into the porch swing, and join us for an honest, hope-filled conversation about perseverance, perspective, and the power of “not quit.”Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen.#ThePulpitAndPorch #Faith #Hope #Perseverance #Family #ChristianPodcast #Storytelling #KeepGoing #NotQuite #FaithInAction #EncouragementMentioned in the Episode:Song - "The Mighty Name of Jesus" - The Belonging Co.Listen HereBook - The Path of Presence by Paul BergenFind Here

Some stories break your heart. Some inspire you. Some do both at the same time.In this first part of our conversation with Jodi Ramey, you’ll hear a story of faith that’s been tested in ways most of us can’t imagine. A mother, wife, daughter, and grandmother, Jodi has walked through more loss than most will face in a lifetime, yet her faith in Jesus hasn’t just survived…it’s deepened.From family struggles and addiction to unthinkable tragedy, Jodi’s story is raw, real, and full of grace. It’s not polished or pretty; it’s the kind of story that reminds us that faith isn’t about avoiding the storm, it’s about finding God in the middle of it.So grab your glass of sweet tea, settle in on the porch, and join us for a powerful conversation about heartbreak, hope, and the kind of faith that holds steady when everything else falls apart.#ThePulpitAndPorch #FaithThroughTheStorm #RealStoriesRealFaith #ChristianPodcast #HopeInHardTimes #FaithAndPerseverance #TestedFaith #JodiRamey #FrontPorchFaith #StoryOfHope #GriefAndGrace #FaithPodcast

This week on The Pulpit & Porch, we’re sitting down with Pastor Jeremy Burden from First Christian Church in Bristol, VA. Jeremy’s journey hasn’t been easy, he was kicked out of three churches as a young man, nearly lost his way in another ministry, and faced countless setbacks. Yet through it all, God and faithful mentors stayed with him, believing in a calling bigger than his mistakes.In this candid conversation, Jeremy shares what it means to keep showing up when the world says no, how resilience and hope grow in the midst of failure, and why your story, even the messy parts, matters. Whether you’re a pastor, a professional, or someone trying to live out faith in the real world, this episode is full of lessons on perseverance, grace, and God’s faithfulness.Tune in and hear how rejection became redemption, and how God’s story keeps writing when ours feels finished.#ThePulpitAndPorch #Podcast #FaithInRealLife #JeremyBurden #RedemptionStory #ResilientFaith #EverydayFaith #GodsFaithfulness

The past month has been full of stories. Some inspiring, some heartbreaking, and some that caught us completely off guard. From powerful conversations with Kyle Goff, Robert Bess, Hayley Wherry, and Kim Weitkamp… to headlines of tragedy and division… to even the shared hope of a no-hitter at a Dodgers game, every story points us somewhere.This week, Tony and Robert pull it all together. What do these stories reveal about our culture, our faith, and our need for hope? How do small things, like the right song, a good book, or a strong cup of coffee, actually help sustain us when the world feels heavy?Pull up a chair on the porch as we explore how the stories around us don’t just entertain us… they shape us, shake us, and sustain us.Don’t just listen, be part of the story.Listen now wherever you get your podcasts!#ThePulpitAndPorch #Podcast #StoriesMatter #FaithAndLife #ChristianPodcast #HopeInTheChaos #Storytelling #PorchConversations

Some people tell stories to pass the time… but Kim Weitkamp tells stories that stop time. She’s one of the most sought-after storytellers in the world, a keynote speaker and consultant for Fortune 500 companies, and a festival headliner who knows how to make audiences laugh, cry, and see their own story in a new light.In this episode, Kim joins us on the porch to talk about the power of story, not just on stage, but in everyday life, faith, and leadership. We talk about how vulnerability shapes connection, why our “ordinary” stories matter more than we think, and how laughter and tears together create something unforgettable.Kim also shares her own journey, her time in vocational ministry, and her insights on why story has the power to transform, not just entertain.Pull up a chair. This one will make you laugh, think, and maybe even see your own story differently.Find Kim here:kimisfunny.comprofitablestory.comKim’s RecommendationsMushroom Adaptogenic CoffeeBook: The Book Thief by Markus ZusakBook: Let Them by Mel RobbinsBand: Twenty One PilotsArtist/Song: “Raye, My 21st Century Symphony”Live Event: Keith Jarrett: The Koln Concert#ThePulpitAndPorch #Storytelling #KimWeitkamp #FaithAndLife #Purpose #FrontPorchConversations #PowerOfStory #ChristianPodcast

In today’s episode of The Pulpit & Porch, Tony and Robert pull up a couple of chairs to talk about a tension that’s all too real in our culture: Are we chasing our calling, or are we chasing clout?From social media platforms to the pulpit, the temptation to seek influence, recognition, and applause is everywhere. But what happens when clout overshadows calling? How do we discern the difference, and how can we stay rooted in what God has actually asked us to do?This is a conversation about ambition, authenticity, and aligning our lives with purpose rather than popularity. Grab a glass of sweet tea and join us on the porch. We think you’ll find yourself nodding along and maybe even rethinking what you’re chasing.#ThePulpitAndPorch #Podcast #FaithAndLife #CallingVsClout #ChristianLiving #FrontPorchConversations #PurposeOverPopularity #SweetTeaAndStories

In this episode of The Pulpit & Porch Podcast, Tony and Robert sit down with former Navy SEAL and pastor Robert Bess for a conversation that blends grit, faith, and leadership. From his years as a radioman on Navy ships to a covert mission during the Cold War, Robert shares powerful lessons learned from military service and BUD/S training that continue to shape his life today.But his story doesn’t stop with the SEAL Teams, Robert also opens up about his journey into pastoral ministry and how the longing for brotherhood and community led him to explore faith in Jesus. This front-porch conversation dives deep into leadership, resilience, community, and what it truly means to live a life of service. Whether you’re leading in the boardroom, on the battlefield, or in your everyday relationships, you’ll find wisdom and encouragement here.So, grab a glass of sweet tea, pull up a chair, and join us as we talk faith, leadership, and life with Robert Bess.#PulpitAndPorch #Leadership #Faith #NavySEAL #ChristianLeadership #Community #Resilience #Ministry #FrontPorchConversations #Podcast

This week on The Pulpit & Porch, Tony and Robert welcome Haley Wherry, Regional Director of First Priority, a ministry working inside Tri-Cities middle and high schools to connect students to Christ.From navigating the complexities of public school systems to equipping student leaders, Haley shares how God is opening doors in places many believe are closed to faith. We talk about building partnerships with local churches, empowering teenagers to live boldly for Jesus, and the challenges (and joys) of doing ministry in secular spaces.Pull up a chair on the porch, grab some sweet tea, and join us for this honest and inspiring conversation about faith, leadership, and living out the Gospel where it matters most.#FirstPriority #HaleyWherry #ThePulpitAndPorch #FaithInAction #ChristianLeadership #StudentMinistry #MinistryInSchools #LivingYourFaith #ChristianPodcast #LeadershipPodcast #FrontPorchConversationsFind out more about Haley Wherry and First Priority at:www.firstpriority.club/netnFollow them on social media: firstprioritynetn

We’re back on the porch with Kyle Goff, CEO of the YMCA in Sparta, TN and White County Commissioner, to wrap up our conversation on what it really means to lead with faith, serve with heart, and keep your head (and soul) above water in leadership.In this second half, we talk community leadership in real life, the wins and wounds that come with it, navigating criticism in a small town, and staying spiritually and emotionally healthy while leading. Plus, Porch Picks makes its debut and we put Kyle through the ringer with our most controversial segment yet, on Truth or Trash.It’s practical, it’s personal, and it’s porch talk you don’t want to miss.#FaithAndLeadership #SmallTownStrong #YMCA #LeadershipMatters #PorchTalk #ThePulpitAndPorchPodcast #CommunityOverCompetition #ServeLeadLove #TruthOrTrash #PorchPicks #FrontPorchWisdom #SpartaTN #WhiteCounty #FaithInAction

Grab a glass of sweet tea and pull up a rocking chair — because today we’re diving deep into what real leadership looks like when the spotlight’s off and the pressure’s on.In Part 1 of this powerful conversation, Kyle Goff, CEO of the YMCA of Sparta, TN, County Commissioner, and lifelong community leader, joins us to talk about how leadership is more than a title. We cover everything from leading with integrity, the importance of self-awareness, and how serving your community doesn’t have to come with applause. With stories that stretch from boardrooms to backroads, Kyle shares a refreshingly honest take on responsibility, resilience, and the sacred rhythm of showing up.This is front-porch wisdom at its finest.#ThePulpitAndPorch #LeadershipMatters #KyleGoff #YMCA #CommunityLeadership #FaithInAction #PorchTalk #PurposeDriven #SmallTownStrong #ChristianLeadership

Can you stream your favorite shows without letting them stream into your soul? This week on The Pulpit & Porch Podcast, Tony and Robert talk about the tension between faith and entertainment, and how to navigate Netflix, Hulu, TikTok, and all the rest without losing your spiritual footing.We’ll unpack:Why discernment beats legalism every time The difference between “harmless fun” and “heart-shaping” contentHow to set boundaries without becoming a hermit Practical ways to keep your heart holy in a Hulu worldSo grab your sweet tea, settle into the porch swing, and let’s talk about what’s holy, what’s harmless, and what’s just plain Hulu.#FaithAndCulture #HolyVsHulu #SweetTeaAndTruth #PorchConversations #ChristianLife #FaithInRealLife #StreamingAndSanctification #ThePulpitAndPorch #SweetTeaStrongOpinions #DiscernmentNotDrama

In Part 2 of our conversation with Andrew Carrier, we shift from the story to the strength. We talk about what it means to grow through pain, lead with consistency, and live out your values — even on the hardest days.Andrew shares why a simple weed growing through a pole became a symbol of hope, how he kept showing up with joy (even on chemo days), and what it really means to lead well in ordinary places.This one is honest, inspiring, and full of truth, plus, we cap it off with a fun “Truth or Trash” segment that’ll have you thinking and laughing at the same time.#LikeThatWeed #ThePulpitAndPorch #FaithInHardTimes #EverydayLeadership #ChristianPodcast #ResilienceStory #CancerSurvivor #TrueOrTrash #PodcastsThatInspire

In Part 1 of our conversation with Andrew Carrier, we walk through the raw and powerful story of what it’s like to face a cancer diagnosis head-on and choose to fight. Andrew takes us back to the moment everything changed, the emotions that followed, and the decision to keep showing up every single day, for his family, his coworkers, and himself.It’s a conversation about grit, gratitude, and faith in the face of fear. You’ll hear what it looks like to keep moving forward, even when the road ahead is uncertain.Whether you’ve faced your own hard season or walked with someone who has, this story will leave you encouraged and challenged.#LikeThatWeed #ThePulpitAndPorch #FaithAndResilience #RealConversations #ChristianPodcast #Resilience #CancerJourney #LeadershipThroughAdversity #PodcastsThatMatter

In part two of our conversation on leadership and loneliness, we shift from weight to worth. What makes it all meaningful? How do you lead without losing your soul? And what fruit makes the sacrifice worth it? Tony and Robert share stories, mistakes, and some honest truths about calling, pressure, and the unexpected joy that comes from leading well, even when it’s hard.If you’ve ever questioned whether leadership is still worth it, this episode is for you.#LeadershipMatters #FaithAndCalling #MinistryLeadership #ChristianPodcast #ThePulpitAndPorch

Leadership sounds noble, but it can feel heavy, isolating, and unseen. In this episode, Tony and Robert dive into the often unspoken reality of loneliness in leadership. Why does it feel so isolating? Who carries the weight with us? And what do you do when you can’t share the full story with anyone?It’s an honest and heartfelt conversation about the cost of carrying the mantle, and how to keep going when it feels like you’re going alone.For anyone who’s ever led a team, a church, a family, or a project, and felt the quiet ache of loneliness, you’re not alone.#Leadership #ChristianLeadership #Loneliness #MinistryLife #ThePulpitAndPorch

What do ranch dressing, folding laundry, and theological debates all have in common? They’re all on the table in this laugh-out-loud episode of The Pulpit & Porch.This week, Robert and Tony are joined by their wives, Amanda and Melissa, for an epic round of hot takes, strong opinions, and the hilarious (and sometimes serious) hills we’re all willing to die on. From petty preferences to deep convictions, nothing is off limits.It’s real. It’s ridiculous. It’s ridiculously real.And yes, there are snacks. Listen now wherever you get your podcasts!#PulpitAndPorch #HotTakes #MarriageConvos #HillsWeDieOn #FaithAndFun #PodcastEpisode

Summer might be laid-back, but ministry never really stops. In Part 2, we dive into the hard stuff: burnout, identity, and how to stay grounded when attendance drops and motivation dips.What does summer reveal about our leadership? How do we lead well when the room is half full? And how do we balance rest without feeling like we’re slacking?It’s honest, practical, and just the conversation we all need right now.Tune in now wherever you listen to podcasts!#PulpitAndPorch #ChurchLeadership #SummerMinistry #Burnout #FaithAndLife

Summer doesn’t have to be a slump. In this episode, we kick off a two-part convo about how churches can actually win the summer, not just survive it. From finding unexpected opportunities to embracing flexibility, we unpack what makes summer ministry unique (and maybe even fun?).Why is summer a chance to cut the fluff and focus on what really matters? How can churches slow down and show up well? And what’s your go-to summer series or event that just works?Tune in and take a breath. Summer might be better than you think.#PulpitAndPorch #SummerMinistry #ChurchLeadership #SunscreenAndStrategy #MinistryLife

We sat down to talk about summer in the church… but ended up spending an hour reliving our favorite summer movies, TV shows, and guilty pleasure rewatches instead. From childhood classics to hot takes on overrated franchises, this episode is pure front porch nostalgia and laughs.Kick off your summer with a smile, and maybe a new movie for your watchlist.Listen now on your favorite podcast app!#PulpitAndPorch #SummerVibes #MovieNerdsUnite #PodcastLife

We’re back on the porch for Part Two of our conversation on what we’re learning in this season, and it gets even more personal.In this episode, Tony and Robert dive into what it means to lead from a place of weakness, why slowing down is harder (and more important) than it sounds, and how God often teaches us through tension, not clarity.If you’ve ever felt stuck, tired, or unsure , this one’s for you. Real talk, rooted in faith, with a few laughs along the way.Come sit with us.#PulpitPorchPodcast #WhatWereLearning #FaithAndLife #ChristianWorldview #SpiritualGrowth #Leadership #HonestConversations #FrontPorchFaith