Smells Like Smoke

In this episode of Smells Like Smoke, Trevor talks about staying rooted when faith feels quiet. While we want quick answers and visible growth, God often does His deepest work in the waiting. If you’ve been discouraged by silence, slow progress, or unanswered prayers, this episode is a reminder that faith grows deep before it grows wide.

Burnout isn’t a badge of honor and exhaustion isn’t faithfulness. In this episode, Trevor challenges the lie that constant grind equals devotion and unpacks why you can’t rescue others if your own soul is depleted. Jesus modeled a different rhythm by stepping away to be filled before pouring out. If you’ve been running on fumes, it’s time to rebuild what matters. Because soul work fuels rescue work and empty containers can’t pour.

What happens when clarity turns into cynicism? In this episode, Trevor DeVage unpacks the tension between discernment and pride, and how easily the desire to spot what’s wrong can harden the heart. Learn how to recognize “wolves” without becoming one yourself, and why true spiritual maturity requires both wisdom and humility. Stay sharp, stay humble, and lead in a way that protects without wounding.

Why do so many self-improvement efforts leave us feeling stuck? In this episode, Trevor DeVage unpacks the difference between surface-level improvement and deep, soul-level healing. Discover why habits, discipline, and mindset shifts can’t fix what’s broken inside and how true transformation begins with surrender, honesty, and healing.

In this episode of Smells Like Smoke, Trevor explores how politics can become a false source of identity, hope, and control. As tensions rise, many people feel exhausted and divided, looking to systems to fix what only Jesus can heal.This episode is not about sides. It is about staying grounded. Trevor shares how to keep your faith from being shaped by political noise, hold conviction with compassion, and stay rooted in what truly transforms.If you feel overwhelmed or disillusioned, this is a reminder not to place your trust in something that cannot save.

You got the job. Hit the goal. Made the money. So why does it still feel empty?In this episode of Smells Like Smoke, Trevor unpacks the lie at the center of hustle culture that success can satisfy your soul. He breaks down why achievement delivers a temporary high but never lasting peace and how many men unknowingly turn work into worship.If you’ve ever felt the pressure to keep chasing the next win, this conversation will challenge how you define success and call you back to what actually lasts.

In this episode of Smells Like Smoke, Trevor unpacks a powerful image from the book of Epistle of Jude, “clouds without rain.” It’s a warning about the things in life that look promising but ultimately leave you empty.Why do we keep chasing success, pleasure, power, or control, only to feel just as thirsty when we get there? This episode dives into the danger of counterfeit hope, things that promise fulfillment but never deliver. Trevor challenges men to stop chasing illusions and start testing what actually produces real life.

In this episode of Smells Like Smoke, Trevor tackles a hard truth: while the church isn’t perfect, it was never meant to be. It was meant to be a rescue station.If you’ve ever felt disillusioned, disconnected, or tempted to walk away, this conversation is for you. Trevor unpacks why leaving the church doesn’t stop the “fire,” why mission matters more than comfort, and why real life change happens when people choose to engage instead of criticize.With powerful stories from prison ministry to new campus launches, this episode challenges men especially to step back into the fight, not as spectators, but as participants. Because rescue is messy, but it’s worth it.This week’s challenge: don’t just comment, commit. Reengage. Show up. Be part of the mission.

In this episode of Smells Like Smoke, Trevor explores the tension between truth and grace and why both are essential if we want to truly help people instead of pushing them away.Too often we swing between two extremes. We either offer brutal honesty that wounds, or soft grace that never challenges anyone to change. But real rescue requires both.

In this episode of Smells Like Smoke, Trevor Devage challenges the idea that safety should be the goal of faith. In a culture obsessed with minimizing risk, emotionally, financially, and relationally, we have learned how to follow Jesus without ever needing courage. We attend when it is convenient. We speak when it costs nothing. We serve when it fits our schedule. And then we wonder why our faith feels small.This episode unpacks a hard truth: calling always requires courage; comfort never does.

In this episode of Smells Like Smoke, Trevor Devage challenges men to ask if they are fighting the wrong fight. Many Christians are exhausted, not from rescuing people, but from battling everyone around them. We win arguments, yet the fire is still burning.Rooted in Jude 23, this episode is a call to remember that people are not the enemy. Strong men fight for others, not against them. When we stop dehumanizing and start listening, we regain credibility and create space for real rescue.Fight the right fight. Stay close to the fire.

In the gym, drifting gets you hit.In life, drifting costs you your edge.This week on Smells Like Smoke, Trevor Devage explores why faith requires fight and why men are built to contend, not coast. From the boxing ring to the Winter Olympics, the lesson is clear: nobody drifts into victory.This episode is a call to re-engage, reclaim discipline, and take one intentional step back toward the fire.Stay in the ring. Stay engaged. Stay close to the flame.

In this episode of Smells Like Smoke, we explore the balance between judgment and mercy, urgency and compassion. Jude 23 calls us to rescue with mercy, not manipulation.Hell is real. Truth matters. But hope is the point.This week’s challenge: Speak one hard truth with compassion to someone you love. Not to win but to rescue.

We all know good people. Hardworking. Responsible. Moral. But what if goodness is hiding brokenness? This episode explores why Jesus did not come to make bad people good. He came to rescue the lost. Trevor DeVage unpacks why morality cannot heal the soul and why honesty is the first step toward real rescue. Stop hiding behind “I’m fine” and start living healed.

In this episode of Smells Like Smoke, Pastor Trevor DeVage challenges the way we see people and how that perspective shapes the way we treat them. Drawing from experiences inside Wilmot Prison in Tucson, Pastor Trevor unpacks why judgment fails, why pain drives behavior, and why rescue begins with understanding.Most people already know their lives are not working. Addiction, anger, success, and isolation are not the root problem. They are symptoms of unaddressed pain, shame, and loneliness.This episode is a call to trade judgment for curiosity, correction for compassion, and distance for rescue.

Welcome to Smells Like Smoke, a bold podcast for those who are tired of safe, comfortable faith. Inspired by Jude 23, this show is about getting close enough to the fire to rescue people, not just talk about it.Each episode challenges you to trade comfort for courage and distance for action. This is not about winning arguments or playing church. It is about stepping into messy, real-world situations to pull people back from addiction, isolation, shame, and spiritual death.If your faith never costs you anything and never smells like smoke, you might be standing too far from the fire. Stay close. Rescue is worth the cost.

In the season finale of The Make, Pastor Trevor unpacks why tracking your spending isn’t just financial — it’s formational. Discover how clarity, accountability, and first-fruit generosity can shape spiritual habits, reduce anxiety, and bring lasting peace to your financial life.

Today on The Make, we unpack how to stop letting money own you and let Jesus lead, even when inflation rises and Amazon keeps calling your name. Pastor Trevor DeVage dives deep into practical rhythms of faith and finance: learning to “give first, save second, live on the rest,” creating kingdom margin, practicing contentment, and discovering how true freedom comes from trusting God, not your paycheck. This episode is all about trading consumption for contentment and investing in an eternal ROI that changes lives.

Today on The Make, we sit down with Mario and Sherry Henry, Pantano’s dynamic Next Steps duo. We talk about their journey from church wounds to healing, service, and purpose. Hear how their three-step framework—connect to Jesus, connect to community, and connect to purpose—equips people to move from Sunday taking to everyday making.

In this powerful solo episode, Pastor Trevor opens his heart about a divine stirring that’s been growing in his soul, a “holy discomfort” that’s shaking him (and perhaps all of us) out of spiritual autopilot. Drawing from Isaiah 41:4, Trevor explores what it means to be summoned by God in this generation, a generation marked by restlessness, distraction, and hunger for purpose.He unpacks how every great move of God begins with dissatisfaction, why God doesn’t need your resume but your yes, and how leaders, parents, students, and believers alike can respond to this sacred call.If you’ve been feeling unsettled, stirred, or unsure of what’s next, this episode is your wake-up call. When God summons, history shifts. Are you ready to say yes?

Today on The Make we sit down with returning guest Rebecca Hamlin to talk about life updates, Soul Space’s expansion, and how to build rhythms of faith, prayer, and balance in a noisy world. From family and community growth to spiritual practices of slowing down and seeking God, we explore how intentional habits bring transformation and hope.

In this heartfelt episode of The Make, Trevor DeVage opens up about the loss of his family’s beloved rabbit, Max, and the grief that follows. Joined by Kids Director Stephanie Marsh, they dive into stories of faith, family, and the importance of creating intentional spaces for children and students in the church. From pet stories and snakes in the office to navigating ministry transitions and witnessing a surge of new families seeking God, this episode captures both the rawness of personal loss and the hope of a growing spiritual awakening.

On this episode of The Make, Trevor DeVage welcomes Pantano's own Brandon Osmer, a Caliber Collision GM, husband, and dad, to share how following Jesus shapes his workplace, his family, and his community. From leading a collision shop with compassion to walking through loss, IVF, and parenting three strong-willed kids, Brandon’s story shows how ordinary moments become opportunities for extraordinary faith and discipleship.

In this episode, we sit down with Sonia Zarate, Hospitality Director, to talk about the power of making people feel seen. Sonia shares how welcoming others and inviting them to serve can turn volunteers into family. We explore how living out our faith in everyday moments can help us reach just one more for the Kingdom.

On this episode of The Make, we welcome longtime friend and pastor Brad Prunty for a heartfelt conversation about life, ministry, and the rhythms that lead to lasting transformation. From college days in the late ‘90s to Brad’s journey planting and merging churches in Chicagoland, Trevor and Brad reflect on friendship, humility, and building a culture where everyone has a seat at the table. Brad also unpacks the creation of Trailhead, a system designed to help people pursue spiritual, physical, mental, and relational health while avoiding the “false summits” of life. Filled with laughter, memories, and wisdom, this episode is about surrender, consistency, and finding true rest in Jesus.

This week on The Make, Pastor Trevor DeVage takes us on a powerful and personal journey into the hidden places of our hearts. Inspired by a simple yet profound phrase from our amazing Benson worship leader, Deb Murphy, “May God minister to the parts of our hearts that have not yet been evangelized,” Trevor unpacks what it means to invite the gospel into our deepest wounds, secret struggles, empty spaces, and hardened places.From healing hidden hurts, surrendering secret sins, and filling empty wells, to softening calloused hearts, this episode is an honest call to transformation for leaders, difference makers, and anyone seeking hope in Jesus. Whether you are running, driving, or sitting quietly at home, lean in and let God’s good news meet you right where you are.

Today on The Make, we sit down with Pastor Chris Hamlin for a heartfelt reflection on the cost of true worship and how we worship in both the highs and the lows. God desires more than what is easy, and when we choose to worship through our struggles, offering Him the very last of what we have, He meets us with His presence and blessing, knowing exactly what we are facing.

After the tragic loss of her daughter, Debbie Carlson faced heartbreak no parent should endure. In this moving episode, she shares how her faith in God, the power of forgiveness, and the support of her community helped her walk through unimaginable grief. A powerful story of hope, healing, and trusting God in the darkest of times.

In this episode, we sit down with David Miller, who serves and leads as an Elder at Pantano. Together, we explore what it means to encounter God through leadership, ministry, and a life of serving others. We also dive into how AI and digital tools are transforming the way we reach people, helping us expand our impact and share the love of Jesus more effectively in today’s world. Whether you're leading a church, volunteering behind the scenes, or looking to use your gifts for God's Kingdom, this conversation will inspire and equip you.Show Notes & Resources:Feel the Love Initiative: https://ritewayac.com/feelthelove/Pantano God Behind Bars Interest Form: https://pantano.churchcenter.com/people/forms/528129The Global Leadership Summit: https://pantano.church/gls/

This week, Trevor DeVage gets real about trust—not as a sermon point, but as a personal battle. In one of the hardest weeks of his life, with his father critically ill, Trevor preached on trust while wrestling with it in real time. This episode is raw, unfiltered, and deeply encouraging.Through stories of hospital rooms, grief, and gut-level faith, Trevor invites us to take just one next faithful step, even when we can’t see the plan. Whether you’re in a season of uncertainty or trying to support someone who is, this message will meet you where you are and help you fall boldly into the hands of God.

This week on The Make, Trevor DeVage sits down with Pantano staff members Frank and Janell to talk about what it really means to be “plugged in” to God, especially in times of heartbreak and challenge. They reflect on the summer's powerful student camps, building life-giving culture, and navigating the tragic loss of a local teen. They also share how Pantano is addressing mental health in the next generation through a brand-new event: Stronger Together.💡 Learn more or register for Stronger Together: pantano.church/stronger-together🔗 Explore Pantano Church: pantano.church📱 Follow us on Instagram: @wearepantano

What if stepping away from your screen could help you reconnect with your soul?In this raw and powerful season premiere of The Make, Trevor sits down with Carlos Whittaker—best-selling author, speaker, and “hope dealer”—to talk about grief, therapy, midlife transformation, and the journey of truly seeing and being seen. Carlos opens up about losing his father, helping his mother find new purpose, and how seven weeks with monks and Amish farmers reshaped his entire life.🎧 Why you need to listen:Learn how silence helped Carlos hear what really mattersDiscover how grief can become a launching pad for purposeFind out why being present is the new superpower🔗 Explore more:📘 Carlos’ new book: Reconnected by Carlos Whittaker💬 Grief support: @ourhousegrief on InstagramThis episode is a wake-up call for anyone feeling burned out, lonely, or stuck in the scroll. Listen now and start reclaiming what it means to be fully human.

What does it mean when a Navy SEAL says the hardest—and most rewarding—thing he’s ever done is follow Jesus?In this raw and powerful episode, Trevor sits down with Chester Henderson, a former Navy SEAL with over two decades of elite service, now leading in risk management and learning to lead spiritually at home. Chester shares his journey through combat, leadership failures, family redemption, and ultimately surrendering—not to an enemy—but to Jesus.If you’ve ever questioned faith, leadership, or what real strength looks like, this episode will hit different. 🔥Subscribe & Share:🌐 pantano.church/themake📲 Follow @wearepantano on Instagram🔗 Join Rooted: pantano.church/rootedChapters include:SEAL Team Brotherhood & Hell WeekThe Cold Mist That Almost Broke HimGenerosity & Leadership LessonsHow His Daughter Led Him to JesusSuffering With Christ: The Path of Real Strength

What happens when faith gets uncomfortable, language feels like a barrier, and God calls you into the unknown? In this powerful episode of The Make, Pastor Trevor talks with Norma and Liz—two passionate leaders behind Pantano Español and Rooted.You’ll hear the raw, behind-the-scenes stories of resistance, risk, and radical trust in God's vision. From launching a fully Spanish service to the life-changing ripple effects of Rooted—including marriages saved, anxiety healed, and even cartel members coming to Christ—this is more than a podcast. It’s a revival story in real time.👉 If you're curious about faith, looking for purpose, or wondering if you're too far gone—this one’s for you.Learn more about This Is Joy - SHE EventLearn more about Rooted

Have you ever hit rock bottom? In this episode, Queens-born Navy veteran Joseph opens up about breaking free from family trauma, overwhelming shame, and suicidal thoughts—only to discover lasting hope through faith, community, and the Rooted experience. Host Trevor Devage digs into the power of surrender and accountability, and Joseph leaves you with one challenge that could change every choice you make. Listen now to find out what it is.Joseph Olazagasti's story video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-2pRXJvhWAQ

In this episode of The Make, Trevor DeVage welcomes back guest John Cassetto—former Saddleback pastor, worship leader, and Kingdom builder—to talk about what happens when Jesus ruins your ordinary and invites you into extraordinary purpose. From preaching four services to spontaneous moments of worship and real conversations about revival, church culture, and the freedom found in following Jesus, this episode captures the heartbeat of Pantano and the power of surrender. Whether you're a seasoned believer or new to faith, this conversation will challenge and encourage you to keep asking: “What’s my next step?”Instagram @johncassetto

In this episode of The Make, Trevor welcomes first-time guest Suzy, a former touring punk rock drummer whose life was radically transformed by an unexpected encounter with Jesus in Germany. From battling addiction and life on the road to leading worship and running her own cleaning business, she shares her deeply personal testimony of redemption, purpose, and the power of prayer. Tune in as she opens up about motherhood, miracles, music, and what it truly means to be ruined by purpose.Links:- https://www.riseazmusicfestival.com

High school students share how Jesus has “ruined” their lives—in the best way—through leading FCA, preaching on tough topics, and planning a powerful worship night.📅 May 9 | 🏟️ Mica Mountain Football Stadium | ⏰ 6:30–8:30 PMJoin this student-led event with live worship, testimonies, and a message of hope.

In this powerful episode of The Make Podcast, Trevor DeVage sits down with graphic designer and everyday faith-warrior Tyler Crawford (aka TC Graphics)—a man who never expected to lead, but stepped up anyway. What happened next? God turned one obedient moment into a ripple effect that changed lives, families, and faith journeys.🎧 Listen now. Be inspired. Say yes.🔗 Mentioned Links:Follow Tyler on Instagram: @tc_graphxJoin a Rooted group: pantano.church/rootedServe Tucson: pantano.church/serveEaster at Pantano: pantano.church/easterLeadership podcast: @leadership_bites

On this episode of The Make, we talk about a powerful story of transformation. Saul shares his journey from seeking acceptance in all the wrong places—almost joining a gang—to finding true belonging in Christ. We discuss the lies the world tells us about success, identity, and purpose, and how God's truth breaks through to bring real freedom. Don’t miss this raw, real, and inspiring conversation!#Faith #Transformation #Redemption #ChristianPodcast #TheMake

In this episode of The Make, Trevor unpacks the battle between the flesh and the Spirit, diving deeper into the latest message from Pantano’s Live No Lies series. He discusses how the enemy uses disordered desires to disorient us, but Jesus calls us back to His design.Don’t just sit and take—go and make! Tune in and be inspired to feed your soul with God’s truth this week.#TheMakePodcast, #LiveNoLies, #FeedYourSoul, #JesusTransforms, #PantanoChurch

In this episode of The Make Podcast, we talk in raw and unfiltered conversations filled with humor, honesty, and cultural insights. From playful banter to deep reflections, we explore what it means to communicate across different backgrounds and break through personal barriers. Join us as we embrace laughter, tackle tough topics, and celebrate the beauty of authentic connection.

The church often avoids it, culture distorts it—so let’s talk about it. In this raw and honest episode of The Make, Trevor and Roger Blumenthal break down what the Bible really says about sex, intimacy, and connection. Why does God care about sex? How can we move past guilt and shame? And what does it mean to pursue God’s best in relationships? Whether you're single, dating, or married, this episode will challenge what you’ve been told and help you see sex through a healthier, God-centered lens. Don't miss it!🔹 Looking for quick, powerful insights? Watch The Bite🔹 Want to grow in your faith and community? Join a Rooted Group: pantano.church/rooted🔹 Make a difference! Be part of Serve Our City: pantano.church/serve

In this episode ofThe Make Podcast, Trevor DeVage goes deep into what it truly means to be a biblical gentleman. He unpacks key traits of godly manhood—sacrificial love, integrity, respect, and character over charm. Hear powerful insights on leadership, relationships, and how men can lead like Jesus. Plus, discover why character outshines charm every time and get a sneak peek into next week’s topic:Designer Sex.💬Have questions? DM us on Instagram@themakecommunity.🎧Also, check out Trevor’s new leadership podcast,The Bite, for quick, impactful leadership lessons:YouTube - @TrevorDeVage#BiblicalManhood #TheMakePodcast #Leadership #Faith #Relationships

In this episode, host Trevor DeVage welcomes guest Frank Nichols to discuss their weekly journey of transitioning from ‘Sunday taking’ to ‘everyday making.’ They dive into the significance of student ministry and the power of camps in transforming young lives. Frank shares his passion for the One Day conference and the impact it had on students, as well as the importance of investing in adult leaders. They also explore the new summer camp initiatives for middle and high school students at Pantano Christian Church, the introduction of WindShape camp for younger kids, and the urgent need for scholarship support to help more students experience these life-changing opportunities. Donate to summer camps - https://pantano.churchcenter.com/giving/to/summer-camp-scholarships Welcome 00:00 Introduction and Guest 00:42 Background Noise and Weekend Recap01:17 One Day Conference Highlights02:55 Team Bragging and Leadership04:42 Community Engagement and School Involvement09:16 Investing in Leaders and Legacy Building12:06 New Series: Love, Sex, and Dating15:59 Personal Reflections on Relationships18:30 Challenges in Leading and Growing Together19:26 The Gentlemen’s Club: Redefining Biblical Manhood20:59 Daily Disciplines for Spiritual Focus24:02 The Resurgence of Men in Faith25:47 Summer Camp: A Life-Changing Experience32:02 WindShape: A Revolutionary Day Camp34:55 Call to Action: Supporting Camp Scholarships37:33 Closing Remarks and Encouragement

Join Trevor and Sean as they dive into a conversation about faith, community, and the exciting journey of bringing hope to Benson, Arizona. Discover the inspiring story of a 14-year prayer, God’s perfect timing, and the incredible vision for our new campus. If you’re ready to be inspired and see what relentless faith can achieve, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!

In this episode of The Make Podcast, Trevor sits down with Rebecca to discuss how comparison undermines confidence and calling. They explore the dangers of constantly measuring yourself against others and highlight the biblical perspective on embracing your unique purpose. Don't miss this inspiring conversation about living faithfully, loving others well, and turning ordinary moments into extraordinary opportunities through Christ. Night To Shine #TheMakePodcast #ComparisonKills #Calling #PantanoChurch #SheEvent #NightToShine #Gratitude #FaithfulLiving #StopComparing #BiblicalWisdom

In this episode of The Make Podcast, Trevor sits down with Amy and Jonathan, leaders of Pantano's student ministry. Discover how they’re shaping a culture where students aren’t just the future—they’re the present. From the growth of the student section on Sundays to game-of-the-week outreach in schools, and the life-changing impact of events like “One Day,” this conversation is packed with inspiration and practical insights.

Welcome to the 2025 season of The Make Podcast! 🎉 This episode explores imposter syndrome, leadership lessons, and the power of showing up. Pastor Trevor talks to John Hasbrouck about creating a lasting legacy, and fostering a mission-driven culture in the church and business world. Plus, updates on Pantano’s incredible 2024 highlights, baptisms, and exciting events like Night to Shine in 2025. Night to Shine: Join us for a special needs prom hosted by Pantano in partnership with the Tim Tebow Foundation. Sign up to serve or learn more at https://pantano.church/nts Book Recommendation: Leadership Not by the Book by David Greene – A must-read for faith-driven leadership insights. Follow The Make Podcast for weekly drops every Wednesday. Don’t forget to rate ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ and share! Let’s keep going and making, not sitting and taking. 🚀

Join Trevor and the team at Pantano Church as they talk about Night to Shine, a life-changing prom experience for individuals with special needs. In this special episode, discover the joy, transformation, and community impact of this event, hosted in partnership with the Tim Tebow Foundation. Get involved! Whether volunteering as a buddy, donating services, or supporting parents, there’s a way for everyone to make a difference. Hear heartwarming stories, laugh with us, and be inspired to help create a night full of love and celebration. Learn More & Get Involved: Volunteer: pantano.church/nts Donate to Night To Shine Website: pantano.church Together, let’s make Night to Shine an unforgettable celebration for every guest. Subscribe for updates and stories that inspire! 🌟