Stories of His Glory

In this episode of Stories of His Glory, Ryne sits down with Central Cass softball coach Scott Kost to talk about faith, leadership, and building something that lasts far beyond wins and losses.Scott shares his journey from growing up around church to truly following Jesus in his early 20s, and how that decision became the foundation for everything in his life, from his family to his coaching career.What started as a simple volunteer opportunity turned into a 26-year coaching journey marked by championship success, but more importantly, a commitment to developing people, not just players.In this conversation, you’ll hear:Why the most important decision Scott ever made wasn’t about career or coaching—but following JesusHow coaches can intentionally build culture and teach life lessons in practiceThe role relationships play in lasting impactWhy winning isn’t the ultimate goal—and what isHow living out your faith can influence others without saying a wordThis episode is a powerful reminder that the way you live your life may be the very thing that leads someone else to Christ.Verse of the Day:"Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” - Matthew 5:16_____Resources:💪 Learn more about FCA in North Dakota: https://www.fcand.org🙌 Support the mission: https://fcand.org/donateThanks to our sponsor: Copper Dog Waffles & Coffee – Mandan, NDCall to Action:If this story encouraged you, share it with a coach, athlete, or friend.🎧 Follow the show so you never miss more stories of how Jesus is transforming lives through the world of sports.🙏 Leave a review and help us declare the glory of Jesus Christ everywhere.

In this episode of Stories of His Glory, we sit down with Shiloh Christian head basketball coach, and FCA area representative, Jordan Williams to hear how God reshaped his understanding of identity, purpose, and what it truly means to live for something greater than the game.Jordan grew up with a deep love for sports and competition, chasing success and recognition like so many athletes do. But along the way, God began to reveal that performance, wins, and achievements could never fully satisfy.Through key relationships, moments of conviction, and a growing understanding of the gospel, Jordan began to shift from living for himself to living fully surrendered to Christ.Now, Jordan is passionate about using his platform to impact others by pointing athletes, friends, and those around him toward a deeper relationship with Jesus.His story is a powerful reminder that sports can be a platform, but they were never meant to be our identity.In this episode, Jordan and Ryne cover:Growing up with a competitive mindset and love for sportsChasing identity through performance and achievementThe people and moments God used to get Jordan’s attentionWhat it looks like to move from surface-level faith to real surrenderLearning that identity is found in Christ and not in wins or lossesUsing sports as a platform to impact others for the gospelThe importance of relationships and accountability in faithLiving with purpose beyond the gameVerse of the Day:"What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?" - Matthew 16:26_____Resources:💪 Learn more about FCA in North Dakota: https://www.fcand.org🙌 Support the mission: https://fcand.org/donate☕ Thanks to our sponsor: Copper Dog Waffles & Coffee – Mandan, NDCall to Action:If this story encouraged you, share it with a coach, athlete, or friend.🎧 Follow the show so you never miss more stories of how Jesus is transforming lives through the world of sports.🙏 Leave a review and help us declare the glory of Jesus Christ everywhere.

In this episode of Stories of His Glory, we sit down with FCA staff member and former collegiate runner Jackie Molden to hear how God transformed her life from striving and self-reliance to surrender and deep trust.Jackie grew up immersed in sports and faith environments, but beneath the surface she was living a double life. However, through the influence of godly roommates, intentional discipleship, and the conviction of the Holy Spirit, Jackie experienced true repentance and discovered the freedom that comes from fully surrendering to Christ.Jackie shares how God used difficult circumstances including multiple injuries, brain surgery, grief, and even walking through infertility to draw her closer to Himself and reshape her understanding of His goodness.Today, serving with FCA at NDSU, Jackie is passionate about discipling college women, living out the “ministry of presence,” and helping others move from cultural Christianity to authentic faith.Her story is a powerful reminder that God’s plan is not always what we expect, but it is always good.Topics covered in this episode include:Growing up around faith but not fully understanding the gospelLiving a double life as a college athlete and the weight of hidden sinHow godly roommates and a mentor helped lead Jackie to true repentanceFinding freedom in Christ after years of striving and performanceWalking through injuries, surgeries, and unmet athletic dreamsThe power of discipleship and why mentorship changed everythingLearning the “ministry of presence” and building relationships over timeWrestling with infertility and trusting God in deep griefThe moment God provided through adoption and becoming a momWhy the cross is the ultimate proof that God is good even in suffering Verse of the Day:“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” - Luke 9:23Resources:💪 Learn more about FCA in North Dakota: https://www.fcand.org🙌 Support the mission: https://fcand.org/donate☕ Thanks to our sponsor: Copper Dog Waffles & Coffee – Mandan, NDCall to Action:If this story encouraged you, share it with a coach, athlete, or friend.🎧 Follow the show so you never miss more stories of how Jesus is transforming lives through the world of sports.🙏 Leave a review and help us declare the glory of Jesus Christ everywhere.

In this episode of Stories of His Glory, we sit down with longtime Fellowship of Christian Athletes leader Randy Jensen, a man who has spent more than four decades living out his calling as an “ambassador in sports.”Growing up in the sandlots and fields of the 1960s, Randy’s identity was built around competition. But everything changed during a high school Bible camp when he realized that faith in Jesus wasn’t about earning God’s approval, rather it was about receiving His grace.That moment reshaped the way Randy saw sports, leadership, and life.Mentored by faithful coaches and surrounded by a community of believers through FCA, Randy began learning how to compete for something bigger than trophies or recognition. Over time, that calling grew into a lifelong mission of helping coaches and athletes discover what it means to follow Jesus in the arena of sport.Now, after 46 years on FCA staff, Randy shares powerful stories of mentorship, discipleship, and the eternal impact of investing in people. From high school huddles in basements to decades of ministry across Minnesota and beyond, his life is a reminder that small acts of faithfulness can plant seeds that grow for generations.Whether he’s mentoring coaches, officiating basketball games, or simply building relationships, Randy continues to point people toward the ultimate victory found in Christ.In this Episode Ryne and Randy discuss:• Growing up in the sandlots of the 1960s and discovering a love for sport• The Bible camp moment that transformed Randy’s understanding of faith• How a high school coach saw leadership potential Randy didn’t see in himself• Starting an FCA huddle in his basement and creating community for young athletes• Learning that identity is found in Christ and not in performance or success• Sharing the gospel as a college athlete and discovering his calling as an ambassador in sport• A powerful story of a coach who came to faith decades after watching Randy live out his faith• Why relationships are the real engine of ministry, not programs• What 46 years with FCA has taught him about discipleship, perseverance, and God’s faithfulnessVerse of the Day:"God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God." -2 Corinthians 5:19-20_____Resources:💪 Learn more about FCA in North Dakota: https://www.fcand.org🙌 Support the mission: https://fcand.org/donate☕ Thanks to our sponsor: Copper Dog Waffles & Coffee – Mandan, NDCall to Action:If this story encouraged you, share it with a coach, athlete, or friend.🎧 Follow the show so you never miss more stories of how Jesus is transforming lives through the world of sports.🙏 Leave a review and help us declare the glory of Jesus Christ everywhere.

In this episode of we sit down with Bismarck State College basketball player, wife, and mom Kennedy Stormer to hear how meeting Jesus in 2022 turned everything around for a college athlete and grew her into a fearless competitor and joyful disciple.After a two-year hiatus, an extra year of eligibility brought Kennedy home to play for her dad—alongside two of her sisters—in BSC’s first NAIA season. On the stat sheet she’s lighting up the conference; off the court she’s leading Bible studies, pointing teammates to Christ, and balancing 6 a.m. practices with diapers and nap schedules.From a late-night Scripture encounter in a church parking lot to living counter-culturally, Kennedy’s story shows that true freedom comes when surrender replaces striving.In This Episode• Finding faith through an intramural volleyball teammate who asked, “Have you talked to God?”• A Bible, a parking-lot prayer, and the moment peace flooded her life• Leaving Division II ball, moving across the country, becoming a wife and mom—and then lacing up again• Playing fearless: “If I play my hardest, God will do the rest.”• Leading teammates into the Word and watching family members catch the fire• Dreams of coaching with her dad and discipling the next generation of women in sportVerse of the Day“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” — 2 Corinthians 5:17Resources💪 Learn more about FCA in North Dakota: https://www.fcand.org🏀 Follow Bismarck State Women’s Basketball: http://www.bscmystics.com🙌 Support the mission: https://fcand.org/donate☕ Thanks to our sponsor: Copper Dog Waffles & Coffee – Mandan, NDCall to Action• If Kennedy’s story encouraged you, share it with a coach, athlete, or friend.• 🎧 Follow the show so you never miss more stories of how Jesus is transforming lives through the world of sports.• 🙏 Leave a review and help us declare the glory of Jesus Christ everywhere.

In this episode of Stories of His Glory, we sit down with former professional basketball player and current pastor Isaac Sevlie to hear how God used the game of basketball as a platform to shape his faith, refine his character, and prepare him for ministry.From being unrecruited and overlooked to grinding through years on the bench, Isaac shares how God’s calling often unfolds through seasons of waiting, disappointment, and unseen growth. His story reminds us that God’s promises are real, but not always linear.Isaac reflects on the power of firsthand faith, the danger of playing for approval, and what happens when surrender replaces striving. Through college basketball, overseas competition, and now coaching and ministry, God has faithfully brought his story full circle.In This Episode:Growing up in a faith-filled home and making faith personalDiscovering basketball as a God-given platformPersevering through obscurity, setbacks, and discouragementLearning to stop playing for people and start playing for GodSeeing God’s purpose clearlyUsing sports today to point the next generation to ChristVerse of the Day:"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." -Galatians 6:9Resources:💪 Learn more about FCA in North Dakota: https://www.fcand.org🙌 Support the mission: https://fcand.org/donate☕ Thanks to our sponsor: Copper Dog Waffles & Coffee – Mandan, NDCall to Action:If this story encouraged you, share it with a coach, athlete, or friend.🎧 Follow the show so you never miss more stories of how Jesus is transforming lives through the world of sports.🙏 Leave a review and help us declare the glory of Jesus Christ everywhere.

In this episode of Stories of His Glory, we sit down with Jacob Holmen, head football coach, math teacher, and FCA huddle leader at Minot North High School.Jacob shares his journey of growing up as a coach’s kid, playing college football at the University of North Dakota, and eventually helping launch a brand-new high school football program from the ground up. Throughout the conversation, Jacob reflects on how his faith in Jesus Christ has shaped his identity, his leadership, and his purpose as a coach.From building relationships beyond the X’s and O’s to leading FCA huddles, Jacob explains why coaching is about far more than wins and losses and how God can use the game of football as a powerful platform to impact lives for eternity.Topics include:Growing up as a coach’s son and learning the impact of servant leadershipIdentity rooted in Christ, not wins, losses, or titlesPlaying college football at UND and finding community through FCALessons learned from a missions trip to GuatemalaLaunching a brand-new football program at Minot NorthBuilding culture, character, and faith in a public school settingWhy relationships matter more than championshipsEncouragement for coaches and athletes to live out their faith dailyVerse of the Day:Matthew 6:19-21“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."_____Resources:💪 Learn more about FCA in North Dakota: https://www.fcand.org🙌 Support the mission: https://fcand.org/donate☕ Thanks to our sponsor: Copper Dog Waffles & Coffee – Mandan, NDCall to Action:If this story encouraged you, share it with a coach, athlete, or friend.🎧 Follow the show so you never miss more stories of how Jesus is transforming lives through the world of sports.🙏 Leave a review and help us declare the glory of Jesus Christ everywhere.

In this episode of Stories of His Glory, Ryne sits down with former NDSU Linebacker and current FCA College Rep. James Kaczor. James is a three-time FCS National Champion, a AFCA Second Team All-American, and a two-time First Team Missouri Valley Conference Linebacker, but those titles pale in comparison to the fact that James has been saved by faith in Jesus Christ and is a child of the one true God.Listen in as James shares the amazing story of how God used scripture and the faithfulness of key individuals in his life to transform James's heart in addition to:His upbringing and life before knowing ChristHow knowing God's truths made football a place for James to grow with other brothers in ChristJames's advice for new or young believers on where to start reading scriptureHis role and his why behind his ministry with FCAA few of his favorite books and podcasts that would help aid you in knowing God deeper and being like ChristThe Gospel's Power and Message by Paul WasherHoliness by J.C. RyleBible Talk PodcastHis simple system for scripture memorizationFor more on this visit use the links below to listen to the Heart of Flesh podcast episode titled Recovering an Often Neglected Spiritual Discipline.SpotifyApple PodcastVerse of the Day:Philippians 3:8-10Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith. _____Resources:💪 Learn more about FCA in North Dakota: https://www.fcand.org🙌 Support the mission: https://fcand.org/donate☕ Thanks to our sponsor: Copper Dog Waffles & Coffee – Mandan, NDCall to Action:If this story encouraged you, share it with a coach, athlete, or friend.🎧 Follow the show so you never miss more stories of how Jesus is transforming lives through the world of sports.🙏 Leave a review and help us declare the glory of Jesus Christ everywhere.

As the 2025 year comes to a close, this special episode of Stories of His Glory host Ryne Jungling is joined by FCA North Dakota staff members Nate Safe, Austin Bettenhausen, and Tate Tobiason as they reflect on some of the most powerful moments from the season.Drawing from Alys Seay’s story, the guys revisit key themes like:the pressure of performancethe importance of identity in Christthe power of community and discipleshiphow the truth of the gospel brings freedom.Reflecting on Jeff Martin’s story and the birth of Fields of Faith topics that are discussed are:highlighting how God uses ordinary, untrained students to boldly share their faithhow peer-to-peer testimony often reaches hearts in ways polished speakers cannot.Finally, the guys revisit Chad Hammontree’s concept of “logging miles”, were they are reminded that:consistent presence, time, and relationship-building can open doors for life-changing ministry.This episode is a reminder that discipleship doesn’t require perfection or a platform—it requires availability, faithfulness, and a willingness to let God work through everyday moments.Verse of the Day:2 Corinthians 5:17 - "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come:[a] The old has gone, the new is here!"_____Resources:💪 Learn more about FCA in North Dakota: https://www.fcand.org🙌 Support the mission: https://fcand.org/donate☕ Thanks to our sponsor: Copper Dog Waffles & Coffee – Mandan, NDCall to Action:If this story encouraged you, share it with a coach, athlete, or friend.🎧 Follow the show so you never miss more stories of how Jesus is transforming lives through the world of sports.🙏 Leave a review and help us declare the glory of Jesus Christ everywhere.

During his time at the University at North Dakota, Jeff Hoplin, a long time believer in Christ, decided to take a break from playing college football to pursue a semester of Bible School. Although this decision delayed his progress within the football program, Hoplin would not trade the impact that the semester at Bible School had on his life as a disciple of Jesus Christ.In This Episode Jeff Shares:The value of a testimony for individuals who are raised in Christian familiesThe importance of differentiating Bible accounts from the made up stories that children hear aboutWhy believing in Christ is more than just believing in the history of Jesus.A story on how God can use a Gospel share years later to impact the lives of othersThe incredible importance of discipling new believersHopefully Jeff's story challenges us all to not only be bold in sharing our faith with others, but also highlight the importance of walking along side new believers and help them grow in their faith in hopes of not just "leaving them sitting on the curb".Verse of the Day:"For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile" – Romans 1:16Resources:💪 Learn more about FCA in North Dakota: https://www.fcand.org🙌 Support the mission: https://fcand.org/donate☕ Thanks to our sponsor: Copper Dog Waffles & Coffee – Mandan, NDCall to Action:If this story encouraged you, share it with a coach, athlete, or friend.🎧 Follow the show so you never miss more stories of how Jesus is transforming lives through the world of sports.🙏 Leave a review and help us declare the glory of Jesus Christ everywhere.

In this episode, Ryne and Evan sit down with Luke Moormann, former North Dakota Mr. Basketball, NDSU standout, March Madness participant, longtime coach, teacher, and FCA huddle leader.Luke shares the behind-the-scenes stories from his high school and college basketball journey, including the growing pains of redshirting, beating nationally ranked teams, and what it was like to face Kansas in the NCAA Tournament. But most importantly, Luke opens up about how a simple dorm room Bible study changed the trajectory of his life and how his faith in Jesus has shaped his life.In This Episode:How work ethic and “the little things” create cultureWhy championship teams depend on role playersHow his faith came alive through Chi AlphaThe power of community and lifelong teammatesThe growth of the FCA huddle at Simle Middle SchoolEncouragement and practical advice for new FCA huddle leadersVerse of the Day:"Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much." – Luke 16:10Resources:💪 Learn more about FCA in North Dakota: https://www.fcand.org🙌 Support the mission: https://fcand.org/donate☕ Thanks to our sponsor: Copper Dog Waffles & Coffee – Mandan, NDCall to Action:If this story encouraged you, share it with a coach, athlete, or friend.🎧 Follow the show so you never miss more stories of how Jesus is transforming lives through the world of sports.🙏 Leave a review and help us declare the glory of Jesus Christ everywhere.

In this episode of Stories of His Glory, Ryne and Evan interview Scott Knowlen. Scott is a long time wrestling coach at Bismarck High School, a member of the National High School Athletic Coaches Association Hall of Fame, and an Area-Representative for Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) in Bismarck-Central North Dakota.In this episode, Scott shares the amazing story of how God used moments of pain and heartache to ultimately draw Scott closer to Him.Faced the choice of chasing after the comforts the world provides or leaning into a relationship with the loving God who is chasing after us, Scott lays out the decision he made that changed his life forever.Verse of the Day:"In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed." - 1 Peter 1:6-7Resources:💪 Learn more about FCA in North Dakota: https://www.fcand.org🙌 Support the mission: https://fcand.org/donate☕ Thanks to our sponsor: Copper Dog Waffles & Coffee – Mandan, NDCall to Action:If this story encouraged you, share it with a coach, athlete, or friend.🎧 Follow the show so you never miss more stories of how Jesus is transforming lives through the world of sports.🙏 Leave a review and help us declare the glory of Jesus Christ everywhere.

From the football field to the mission field, Moreno’s story is a powerful picture of what it means to follow Jesus. Once a professional football player in Madagascar, a sudden illness ended his athletic career. Through that loss, God called Moreno into a life of ministry and disciple-making.In this episode, Moreno shares how Jesus transformed his life and how God is using sports to reach the island of Madagascar. From launching football clubs, the disciple-making power of Multiply Schools, and the power that a single ball has to reach unreached people groups with the Gospel, Moreno’s story reminds us that faith grows strongest when we trust God in the unknown.Be encouraged by this powerful testimony of obedience, courage, and the unstoppable mission of God through the Fellowship of Christian Athletes around the world.In This Episode:Pray for Multiply School, as Moreno and his team train and disciple coaches across Madagascar.Pray for provision for a permanent ministry house and venue to host trainings and prayer gatherings.Pray for more workers to join the harvest as FCA continues to grow throughout the nation.Verse of the Day:"You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart." - Jeremiah 29:13Resources:💪 Learn more about FCA in North Dakota: https://www.fcand.org🙌 Support the mission: https://fcand.org/donate☕ Thanks to our sponsor: Copper Dog Waffles & Coffee – Mandan, NDCall to Action:If this story encouraged you, share it with a coach, athlete, or friend.🎧 Follow the show so you never miss more stories of how Jesus is transforming lives through the world of sports.🙏 Leave a review and help us declare the glory of Jesus Christ everywhere.

In this episode of Stories of His Glory, we sit down with Jeff Martin, Chief Strategy Officer for FCA and founder of Fields of Faith.Jeff shares the powerful story of how God used his concerns for the next generation, a passage from 2 Chronicles 34, and the boldness of students to spark a movement that now spans across the nation.From experiences in his own faith journey to lessons learned in ministry and leadership, Jeff explains how one moment of obedience can create not just a ripple effect, but a wave of transformation in the hearts of young people.Topics include:Jeff’s personal faith story and call to ministryThe early days of FCA and the heart behind Fields of FaithHow God used a student’s courage (and a samurai sword!) to inspire thousandsWhy uniting the local church matters more than everEncouragement for anyone called to step out in faithVerse of the Day:"Throughout his reign they did not turn aside from following the Lord, the God of their ancestors." - 2 Chronicles 34:33bResources:💪 Learn more about FCA in North Dakota: https://www.fcand.org🙌 Support the mission: https://fcand.org/donate☕ Thanks to our sponsor: Copper Dog Waffles & Coffee – Mandan, NDCall to Action:If this story encouraged you, share it with a coach, athlete, or friend.🎧 Follow the show so you never miss more stories of how Jesus is transforming lives through the world of sports.🙏 Leave a review and help us declare the glory of Jesus Christ everywhere.

What does it look like when a teacher/coach fully embraces God’s calling to invest in middle school students? In this powerful episode, Chad Even shares his journey from growing up as a sports-driven kid, to hearing God’s voice calling him to go to Trinity Bible College, to discovering his passion for teaching, coaching, and helping kids grow in their relationship with Jesus.Chad opens up about:The moment God told him where to go to college and how it changed the course of his life.Walking away from basketball when it was no longer his identity.Why middle schoolers matter and how he sees and connects with students during such a transformational time in their lives.The challenges of leading FCA through COVID and the incredible story of growth at Wachter Middle School.How students are boldly sharing their faith through sharing “The Four” bracelets and Bibles with their friends.This conversation is a testimony of God’s faithfulness and a reminder that students today are hungry for the gospel. Whether you’re a teacher, coach, parent, or mentor, Chad’s story will inspire you to see the impact of saying “yes” to God’s call.Verse of the Day:"Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is abundant, but the workers are few. Therefore, pray to the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into his harvest.” - Matthew 9:37-38Resources:💪 Learn more about FCA in North Dakota: https://www.fcand.org🙌 Support the mission: https://fcand.org/donate☕ Thanks to our sponsor: Copper Dog Waffles & Coffee – Mandan, NDCall to Action:If this story encouraged you, share it with a coach, athlete, or friend.🎧 Follow the show so you never miss more stories of how Jesus is transforming lives through the world of sports.🙏 Leave a review and help us declare the glory of Jesus Christ everywhere.

For much of her life, basketball was at the center of Alys Seay’s world. But after years of striving, pressure, and fear of failure, Alys discovered that God wasn’t calling her to perfection, He was calling her to surrender. In this conversation, Alys traces her journey through basketball, the challenges of being a collegiate athlete, a radical season of overseas missions, and her work today as both a medical professional and an FCA volunteer disciple-maker.Listen to Alys reflect on how God reshaped her story from striving for success to living surrendered for His glory.In this episode:The pressures of college athletics and performance anxietyDiscovering freedom through surrendering to God’s planHow God redirected her through the World Race missions tripThe power of community, discipleship, and speaking life into othersLiving out faith intentionally in medicine and mentoring college athletesVerse of the Day:"Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing." - 1 Thessalonians 5:11_____Resources:💪 Learn more about FCA in North Dakota: https://www.fcand.org🙌 Support the mission: https://fcand.org/donate☕ Thanks to our sponsor: Copper Dog Waffles & Coffee – Mandan, NDCall to Action:If this story encouraged you, share it with a coach, athlete, or friend.🎧 Follow the show so you never miss more stories of how Jesus is transforming lives through the world of sports.🙏 Leave a review and help us declare the glory of Jesus Christ everywhere.

At just 13 years old, Brian Conklin’s dream of pitching in the Major Leagues ended in an instant with a devastating shoulder injury. The game he loved was gone. But in that moment, God was building something greater.Today, Brian is a former Nebraska Cornhusker basketball player and serves as FCA’s Northland Regional Vice President. His pitching injury shifted his focus to a lifelong mission to reach others in sports with the Gospel. Brian learned that sports can never be God, but they can be an incredible tool to glorify Him.In this episode, Brian unpacks:Why brokenness can be the birthplace of faith.The danger of making sports an idol and how Christ offers true hope.How discipleship shaped his life more than stats or trophies ever could.The incredible story of his parents’ salvation in Luxembourg and its ripple effect.What 21 years of FCA ministry has taught him about humility, leadership, and daily dependence on Christ.Brian’s story will encourage athletes, coaches, and anyone navigating disappointment to see how God’s sovereignty works for His glory and our good.Verse of the Day:"Formerly, when you did not know God, you were enslaved to those that by nature are not gods. But now that you have come to know God, or rather to be known by God, how can you turn back again to the weak and worthless elementary principles of the world, whose slaves you want to be once more?" - Galatians 4:8-9_____Resources:💪 Learn more about FCA in North Dakota: https://www.fcand.org🙌 Support the mission: https://fcand.org/donate☕ Thanks to our sponsor: Copper Dog Waffles & Coffee – Mandan, NDCall to Action:If this story encouraged you, share it with a coach, athlete, or friend.🎧 Follow the show so you never miss more stories of how Jesus is transforming lives through the world of sports.🙏 Leave a review and help us declare the glory of Jesus Christ everywhere.

No matter what arena of life he's in, pastor and coach Chad Hammontree desires to give all his breath in worship to Jesus. From growing up as a pastor's kid in Florida to playing college football in North Dakota, Chad shares how God shaped his identity from being wrapped up in sports to being firmly rooted in Christ.Chad's story takes us from the Florida Gators to long snapping trick shots, from bounty hunting to a radical encounter with the Holy Spirit that redirected his life into full-time ministry. Today, Chad pours his energy into pastoring, coaching, and discipling the next generation - logging miles with young athletes both on and off the field.In This Episode:Chad's journey of identity from football player to Child of GodThe night at Trinity Bible College that changed everythingHow God has used Chad's coaching as a powerful discipleship toolThe balance between being competitive on the field and compassionate off itUnderstanding how God wired him and how to use that passion as a coachStories of lasting impact from former athletesThe role of worship in our daily livesVerse of the Day:" Whatever you do, do it from the heart, as something done for the Lord and not for people," – Colossians 3:23Resources:💪 Learn more about FCA in North Dakota: https://www.fcand.org🙌 Support the mission: https://fcand.org/donate☕ Thanks to our sponsor: Copper Dog Waffles & Coffee – Mandan, NDCall to Action:If this story encouraged you, share it with a coach, athlete, or friend.🎧 Follow the show so you never miss more stories of how Jesus is transforming lives through the world of sports.🙏 Leave a review and help us declare the glory of Jesus Christ everywhere.

Coach Tommy Butler brings passion, honesty, and heart. From a middle school kid who shut down in school and cheated to survive, to now being a husband, father, and coach who leads with conviction and compassion, this is the story of a life turned upside down by Jesus.In this episode, Tommy opens up about his life as an athlete, his early coaching career, and how God met him in a moment of total surrender. Now, whether he’s on the sideline, in the classroom, or at home with his daughter, everything he does is driven by the love of Jesus.In This Episode:Finding success as an athlete when growing up in OregonHow the seeds of faith were planted by coaches and teammatesThe moment he surrendered his life to ChristThe growth of his faith even through difficult times in his lifeUnderstanding how God wired him and how to use that passion as a coachHow being a father taught him more about the Father’s love than he ever expectedWhy he doesn't have a single, blue item in his entire closet.Verse of the Day:" But God proves his own love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." – Romans 5:8Resources:💪 Learn more about FCA in North Dakota: https://www.fcand.org🙌 Support the mission: https://fcand.org/donate☕ Thanks to our sponsor: Copper Dog Waffles & Coffee – Mandan, NDCall to Action:If this story encouraged you, share it with a coach, athlete, or friend.🎧 Follow the show so you never miss more stories of how Jesus is transforming lives through the world of sports.🙏 Leave a review and help us declare the glory of Jesus Christ everywhere.

In this unforgettable episode, we hear the story of Ev and Teri Nelson, a couple whose lives were radically changed by the grace of Jesus, decades into their marriage and careers. From small-town North Dakota beginnings to decades of coaching and mentoring, the Nelsons share how God patiently pursued them through the ordinary and tough times in their lives.His encounter with Christ transformed how Ev viewed his purpose as a coach and Teri shares about discovering true faith after years of striving and how God invited her into deeper purpose she never imagined, working with college athletes through FCA.This episode is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late for God to write a new chapter in your story and that He often uses ordinary people to make an extraordinary difference.Resources:💪 Learn more about FCA in North Dakota: https://www.fcand.org🙌 Support the mission: https://fcand.org/donate☕ Thanks to our sponsor: Copper Dog Waffles & Coffee – Mandan, NDCall to Action: If this story encouraged you, share it with a coach, athlete, or friend.🎧 Follow the show so you never miss more stories of how Jesus is transforming lives through the world of sports.🙏 Leave a review and help us declare the glory of Jesus Christ everywhere.

In this episode, we sit down with retired educator and coach Rudy Steidl, a deeply respected leader in the Bismarck school system. Rudy shares his journey from Valley City to Bismarck High School and how a faithful coach and a powerful encounter at an FCA camp shaped his life forever.In This Episode:The coach who inspired Rudy to pursue teaching and coachingHis first trip to FCA Camp in 1970—and how it changed everythingThe quiet yet powerful faith modeled by his parentsHow carrying his Bible became part of who he isThe ripple effect of his legacy through decades of serviceVerse of the Day:"4Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. 5Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; 6do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.8Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things." - Philippians 4:4-8Resources:💪 Learn more about FCA in North Dakota: https://www.fcand.org🙌 Support the mission: https://fcand.org/donate☕ Thanks to our sponsor: Copper Dog Waffles & Coffee – Mandan, NDCall to Action:If this story encouraged you, share it with a coach, athlete, or friend.🎧 Follow the show so you never miss more stories of how Jesus is transforming lives through the world of sports.🙏 Leave a review and help us declare the glory of Jesus Christ everywhere.

Coach Ted Schultz couldn’t get high schooler Nate Safe to show up to a single FCA meeting. But he never gave up on Nate, because he saw something deeper. A decade after Coach Schultz shed a tear after his final game, that same Nate Safe surrendered his life to Christ, left the corporate world, and came on staff with FCA.In this powerful and heartfelt conversation, Coach Schultz shares what it means to live on mission through coaching, how he came to faith, and how Jesus transformed both his and Nate’s lives through one seed, one player, one story at a time.In This Episode:The relentless faith of a coach who refused to give up on his athletesWhy Christ-centered coaching leaves a legacy beyond the scoreboardThe urgency for coaches to stand firm in a broken worldHow God turned quiet seeds into loud stories of gloryVerse of the Day:"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly." – John 10:10Resources:💪 Learn more about FCA in North Dakota: https://www.fcand.org🙌 Support the mission: https://fcand.org/donate☕ Thanks to our sponsor: Copper Dog Waffles & Coffee – Mandan, NDCall to Action:If this story encouraged you, share it with a coach, athlete, or friend.🎧 Follow the show so you never miss more stories of how Jesus is transforming lives through the world of sports.🙏 Leave a review and help us declare the glory of Jesus Christ everywhere.

Nate Safe was wrapped up in football. He was an offensive lineman at NDSU, team captain, and everything about his life was tied to football. When his playing career was over, he felt like he might have wasted his life. But then, Jesus got a hold of his heart — and it all started a decade before through the faithful influence of a coach.In this powerful first episode, Nate shares the story of how God used a high school coach, a season of searching, and a men’s Bible study to lead him into a personal relationship with Christ. From former athlete to FCA State Director, Nate's story is a testimony to the grace of God and the ripple effect of gospel-centered leadership.In This Episode:The identity crisis after sports — and the search for purposeThe coach who planted a seed of faith in Nate’s lifeHow a men’s Bible study changed everythingThe mission and future vision of FCA in North DakotaVerse of the Day:"Declare his glory among the nations, his wondrous works among all peoples." – Psalm 96:3Resources:💪 Learn more about FCA in North Dakota: https://www.fcand.org🙌 Support the mission: https://fcand.org/donate☕ Thanks to our sponsor: Copper Dog Waffles & Coffee – Mandan, NDCall to Action:If this story encouraged you, share it with a coach, athlete, or friend.🎧 Follow the show so you never miss more stories of how Jesus is transforming lives through the world of sports.🙏 Leave a review and help us declare the glory of Jesus Christ everywhere.