The RISE Leadership Podcast

You're not trying to build a platform. You're trying to steward one. In this episode, Dr. Jeremy Dixon and Phil McMichael sit down with Hollywood producer and media consultant Phil Cooke and executive producer Dan Wathen — two men who've spent decades helping the world's largest churches and ministries communicate the gospel more effectively. In this conversation, they get honest about what a media-driven world actually demands from the church, why your story is your most powerful tool, where AI fits and where it doesn't, and why the goal was never performance — it was always stewardship. Whether you lead a media team, run your church's Instagram, or just have a phone with social media on it — this one's for you. Send us Fan Mail

The next generation doesn't need a better show, they need a real home. In this episode, Dr. Jeremy Dixon is joined by co-hosts Ben Stoken and Mark Hutchinson to sit down with Noah Herrin, lead pastor of Way Church in Nashville and author of “Holy Habits” and “Welcome to Manhood.” Noah planted Way Church in September 2023, and in under two years has seen over 1,500 people give their life to Jesus, including 53 salvations on launch day alone. In this conversation, Noah gets honest about what the local church is getting wrong with young adults, why community has to come before mission, what Gen Z actually wants from Scripture, and how older leaders can become the champions that young leaders desperately need. This one's practical, honest, and powerful.Send us Fan Mail

What does it actually cost to say yes to God's call? In this episode, Dr. Jeremy Dixon and Izzy Hoffarth sit down with Cross Church Missions Pastor Julio Arriola — a man whose story spans Mexico, Argentina, Nashville, Texas, and Northwest Arkansas. Julio planted a church in Guadalajara that grew to become the largest Baptist church in a city of 1.5 million people, and has since coached and deployed church planters across the country. In this conversation, Julio gets real about the hardest decision of his life, the moment his son's tears confirmed their calling, the biggest mistake church planters make, and why prayer and fasting changed everything. Whether you're called to plant or called to stay — this episode is for you.Send us Fan Mail

Shelley Simpson is the President & CEO of J.B. Hunt Transport Services — one of the largest logistics companies in North America, with over 33,000 employees. She started as an hourly customer service rep. She climbed every rung. And she did it without letting go of her faith, her family, or her character. In this conversation recorded at Cross Church’s Summit Business Luncheon, Senior Pastor Nick Floyd goes deep with Shelley on what it actually looks like to lead at the highest level — while navigating a freight recession, a personal health crisis, and the pressure of Wall Street all at the same time. This isn’t just a leadership conversation. It’s a witness. You’ll hear how Shelley keeps her non-negotiables locked in, why she wrote a personal mission statement the day her dad landed in the ICU, and what she means when she says: “Let’s go, God.” For every leader carrying more than they let on — this one’s for you. Send us Fan Mail

What does real leadership growth look like? In this episode of the Rise Leadership Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Dixon and Phil McMichael sit down with executive coach Ben Cashion to talk about the three critical jumps leaders must make as they grow: becoming a five-star contributor, learning to lead as a builder manager, and stepping into enterprise leadership. Ben shares practical insight from years of coaching CEOs and high-capacity leaders, including why promotions don’t always equal readiness, how leaders get stuck when they keep doing instead of leading, and what healthy career progression really looks like. He also brings the conversation into the church context, showing how these same principles apply to volunteers, team leaders, and coaches. This episode will help you recognize where you are, what skills you need next, and how to grow with humility, clarity, and purpose. Send us Fan Mail

Most people picture ministry on a stage. But what if real ministry also looks like boardrooms, budgets, and carrying the weight of decisions that affect thousands of lives? In this episode of the RISE Leadership Podcast, Jeremy Dixon and Phil McMichael sit down with Jeff Pearson, Executive Director of Compassion 479 and Strategic Initiatives at Cross Church. Before joining church staff, Jeff spent nearly three decades at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, including 15 years as CFO of the organization responsible for raising the majority of its funding. He woke up every day knowing millions of dollars had to be raised — and that children’s lives depended on it. In this honest conversation, Jeff shares: What the “weight of leadership” really feels like How to view your workplace as ministry The difference between platform and stewardship How to discern when God is releasing you from a role Why obedience sometimes means walking away from something you love If you’re leading in business, healthcare, education, ministry, or anywhere in between, this episode will challenge how you think about calling. Ministry isn’t about visibility. It’s about faithfulness with what God has entrusted to you. Send us Fan Mail

What if the very thing you walked through is the very thing God wants to use? In this episode of The RISE Leadership Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Dixon and Phil McMichael sit down with Cross Church dream teamer Kelly Stamps to explore how God turns seasons of waiting, pain, and ordinary obedience into powerful ministry. Kelly never set out to build a platform but through simple faithfulness, God used her story to impact thousands and to connect couples around the world. This conversation will challenge you to see your life differently. Your leadership doesn’t start on a stage—it starts in your story. If you’ve ever wondered whether God could use your past, your pain, or your everyday faithfulness to make a difference, this episode will remind you: He already is. Send us Fan Mail

What really happens behind the scenes of worship ministry? In this episode, Dr. Jeremy Dixon and co-host Phil McMichael sit down with Nick Hardeman, Cross Church’s Associate Worship Pastor/ Springdale Campus Director, to give an inside look at worship ministry at Cross Church. From auditions and development to heart posture and biblical worship, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what it means to lead people into God’s presence. Whether you’re a talented musician, someone curious about getting involved, or a church member who simply wants to worship with greater intention, this episode will help you understand the why behind what we do—and how every person has a role to play. This is an encouraging, honest, and practical introduction to worship ministry for dream teamers, staff, seminary residents, and anyone who wants to raise their expectation in worship. Send us Fan Mail

In Part 2 of our Don’t Flinch conversation, Dr. Jeremy Dixon and co-host Phil McMichael sit down again with Cross Church Senior Pastor, Dr. Nick Floyd, for a candid and behind-the-scenes look at how Cross Church is navigating one of the most significant seasons of change in its 150+ year history.Dr. Floyd shares the story of Cross Church’s long legacy of faithful leadership, the evolution into a multi-campus church, and what’s driving the launch of new campuses across Northwest Arkansas. You’ll also hear practical insight into how Cross Church is adjusting its teaching model to scale for future growth, why unified vision matters more than ever, and how leadership development accelerates in seasons of expansion. Whether you’re leading in ministry, business, or any growing organization, this episode will challenge you to stay steady, courageous, and mission-focused when change comes.In this episode, you’ll learn:·      Why healthy organizations must embrace change instead of resisting it·      How Cross Church has navigated pastoral transitions and multi-campus growth·      The tension between personal preference and organizational mission·      Why leadership clarity and consistent vision are essential in seasons of expansion·      How change creates new opportunities for leadership development and ownership·      What it really means to “not flinch” when the pressure increasesIf you’re leading through change, growth, or uncertainty, this episode will equip and encourage you to lead with confidence, humility, and faith.Send us Fan Mail

As we kick off Season 2 and step into a new year filled with uncertainty, change, and transition, how do leaders stay steady instead of shaken? In this episode of the RISE Leadership Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Dixon and Phil McMichael sit down with Dr. Nick Floyd, Senior Pastor of Cross Church, to unpack what it really means to not flinch when leadership gets heavy. Rooted in 1 Corinthians 15:58, this conversation explores how the resurrection of Jesus empowers leaders to remain steadfast and immovable—no matter what’s happening around them. Pastor Nick shares personal stories, leadership principles, and practical wisdom for navigating seasons of change with faith, clarity, and courage.Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of The RISE Leadership Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Dixon and Phil McMichael wrap up 2025 with a discussion on the personal prayer life of the leader. As part of this episode they will dive deep into 3 specific prayers every leader should be praying persistently, and how taking those prayers to the Lord will impact their effectiveness as a leader in the new year. Send us Fan Mail

Coach Houston Nutt—one of the most beloved Razorback coaches of all time—joins Dr. Jeremy Dixon and Phil McMichael to talk about the power of positivity in leadership. From his days as a three-time SEC Coach of the Year to guiding players toward grit, mental toughness, and academic excellence, Coach Nutt shares the principles that fueled his career and still inspire leaders today. In this episode, you’ll hear about the impact of his parents on his leadership style, the art of motivating a team through highs and lows, and why belief in people can change everything. Whether you’re leading in sports, business, ministry, or any field, this conversation will help you lead with passion, positivity, and purpose.Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of The RISE Leadership Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Dixon and Phil McMichael our back in our Introduction to Ministry series with a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most influential—and often least understood—areas of church life: Media Ministry. They’re joined by Brian Dunaway and Justin Hume, two of the key leaders shaping the creative, technical, and storytelling engine of Cross Church. From weekend services to online engagement, from production to photography to livestream strategy, Brian and Justin unpack how media amplifies the gospel, serves our people, and strengthens every ministry across all campuses. Whether you’re a Dream Teamer, staff member, resident, or simply curious about how Cross Church brings ministry to life each week, this conversation will deepen your appreciation for the unseen ministry that moves the mission forward. Send us Fan Mail

What do you do when you inherit something broken? Most leaders will eventually step into a role they didn’t start—whether it’s a ministry, a team, or an organization—and face the challenge of rebuilding trust, culture, and vision. In this episode of The RISE Leadership Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Dixon and Dr. Nick Floyd sit down with Dr. Jon Chasteen, Lead Pastor of Victory Church in Dallas, former President of The King’s University, and author of ReLeader: How to Fix What You Didn’t Break. Jon shares powerful lessons from leading through crisis, stepping into broken systems, and rebuilding with humility, patience, and faith. He unpacks what it means to be a “ReLeader”—someone who runs toward broken places others might avoid—while offering practical wisdom on honoring what came before, discerning what to change and when, and celebrating small beginnings. This conversation is honest, faith-filled, and full of leadership gold for anyone leading in the real world, not just the ideal one.  Send us Fan Mail

What happens when life throws a curveball you never saw coming? Mike Matheny—known as one of the toughest men to ever wear the gear—played 13 seasons in Major League Baseball with the Brewers, Blue Jays, Cardinals, and Giants. After a fastball to the face in 2004, broadcasters began to refer to him as “the toughest player in baseball.” But beyond his reputation for grit, Mike’s story is one of faith, resilience, and learning to trust God when everything changes. In this episode of The RISE Leadership Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Dixon and Phil McMichael sit down with Mike to talk about walking through injury, forced retirement, job loss, and seasons of identity shift. Mike shares powerful stories from behind the plate and the dugout, along with how scripture shaped his faith through those defining moments. Whether you’re a leader facing transition, a pastor walking through uncertainty, or simply someone in a hard season, this conversation will pour hope into your soul and give you practical steps to keep your faith steady when life hits hard. Books by Mike Matheny:The Dad Coach: How to Lead Kids to Succeed On and Off the Baseball FieldThe Matheny Manifesto: A Young Manager's Old-School Views on Success in Sports and LifeSend us Fan Mail

Real leadership isn’t tested in calm waters—it’s forged in the storms. In this episode, Dr. Jeremy Dixon and Phil McMichael talk with Dr. Keith McDaniel, Superintendent of Shiloh Christian School and seasoned military veteran, about what resilience really looks like, why it matters, and how to grow it—both in yourself and in teams. Keith shares stories from his 17 years in uniform, leading schools through change, and building strong environments where young leaders don’t just survive but thrive. If you’re a young leader feeling stretched, a volunteer trying to carry too much, or someone who wants to help your team grow grit in faith and function, this conversation is for you.Keith’s Favorite Books on Resilience: The Book On Leadership - John MacArthur12 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership - John C. MaxwellThe Advantage - Patrick LencioniWhy Do I Do What I Don't Want To Do - Jonathan PokludaThe Sweaty Startup - Nick HuberCourage Is Calling - Ryan HolidayExtreme Ownership - Jocko WillinkGrit - Angela DuckworthShackleton's Way - Margot Morrell and Stephanie CapparellOur Civilizational Moment - Os GuinnessSend us Fan Mail

Discover insights with Tim Stevens, Founder and CEO of Leading Smart, a leading consulting firm dedicated to empowering business and church leaders to achieve their full potential. In this episode, Tim shares proven strategies for developing your team from within, key indicators for when to seek external talent, and common pitfalls to avoid. Whether you're scaling your organization or nurturing your current staff, this conversation will equip you with the knowledge to lead more effectively and build a stronger, more resilient team.Send us Fan Mail

John Rausch, Chairman and CEO of Rausch Companies, joins the podcast to discuss expanding a business begun by his grandfather, leading toward and through a major transition, and maintaining team and organizational culture. Send us Fan Mail

How do you live out your faith when the cameras are always on? 5News anchor Tiffany Lee joins The RISE Leadership Podcast to share her journey of following Christ while working in the public eye. She opens up about the importance of Biblical community, the challenge of balancing faith with a demanding work schedule, and how she maintains and communicates hope in a profession that often highlights tragedy and darkness.Send us Fan Mail

Josh Carson is the Executive Vice President and General Counsel for Rausch Companies. Josh joins Jeremy & Phil to discuss how he has been able to create avenues for spiritual conversations and encouragement for his team, and how his own walk with the Lord continues to impact his life as a leader.Send us Fan Mail

Dave Kinney, our Cross Church Pastor of Operations, discusses layers of organizational, personal and regional crisis he has walked through, and leadership lessons that helped him to navigate those seasons. Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, Phil & Jeremy sit down with Eli Laughlin, College Pastor at Cross Church, to discuss the vision, mission & opportunities of C3. If you are a college student interested in finding community and even looking for your own personal mission, or if you are an adult looking for a way to leave a legacy in the lives of college students, this podcast will introduce you to those possibilities with this behind the scenes look at the college ministry at Cross Church. Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of The RISE Leadership Podcast, Jeremy and Phil sit down with Brennan Washington—former Cross Church staff member and now a church planter in Kentucky—for a powerful conversation on spiritual leadership that lasts. Brennan shares wisdom on consistency through seasons, the prayer life that anchors a leader, and what it means to honor a legacy while stepping into your own calling.Reflecting on the recent loss of an amazing father-in-law, Brennan opens up about the grief, gratitude, and growth that come with continuing a legacy. We also talk about the tension and humility required to lead people who are more gifted than you, and why spiritual leadership is less about charisma and more about character and commitment.Whether you’re leading in the church, the marketplace, or your home, this conversation will encourage you to stay rooted, stay faithful, and play the long game.Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of The RISE Leadership Podcast, Dr. Jeff Crawford—President of Cross Theological Seminary—joins Jeremy and Phil for a special behind-the-scenes look at how CTS came to life. From a simple dream to a thriving seminary, Dr. Crawford unpacks the origin story, the moments of divine confirmation, and the unexpected miracles that marked its inaugural year.More than just a seminary story, this episode is packed with leadership gold. You’ll hear lessons on leading with vision before there’s a blueprint, the power of innovation through organic growth, and what it looks like to step into uncharted territory, trusting that God will build as you move.Whether you’re building something new or stewarding something established, this episode will encourage and equip you to lead boldly and faithfully.Send us Fan Mail

IMB missionaries Seth & Amanda join our podcast to discuss lessons they have learned from serving and leading large numbers of team members who are stationed in remote locations. Send us Fan Mail

How do you influence the leaders above you without overstepping—and empower those below you to speak into your leadership? In this episode, Champion Forest Baptist Church Lead Pastor Jarrett Stephens joins us to unpack the art of “leading up.” With wisdom shaped by decades of ministry, Jarrett shares how humility, longevity, and faithfulness create lasting influence, why trusting your leader is a choice, and how honoring authority ultimately expands your own. If you're eager to grow your leadership while strengthening your team and culture, this conversation is for you.Send us Fan Mail

Host Jeremy Dixon is joined by leadership consultant, author, and former Catalyst leader Brad Lomenick. Together, they explore the weighty and essential leadership themes of identity, calling, and assignment—unpacking what it means to steward your influence well, whether you’re leading in the church or the marketplace.Brad shares insights from decades of experience leading thousands of young leaders and working alongside voices like John Maxwell. You’ll hear practical wisdom on discovering your calling, owning your current assignment, and showing up with an “owner” mentality—no matter your title. If you’re seeking to lead with greater intentionality, this episode will help you take your next step with confidence.Send us Fan Mail

En este episodio, Marco y Sonia Hernández, del equipo ministerial de Cross Church, comparten su trayectoria desde el inicio de su matrimonio, cuando ninguno de los dos era seguidor de Cristo, hasta su experiencia de salvación con Jesús, y cómo su relación con Él y su comunidad dentro de la Iglesia ha transformado sus vidas, matrimonio y familia.Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, Marco & Sonia Hernandez from our Cross Church ministry team share their journey as a married couple. From the beginning of their marriage when neither was a follower of Christ, to their saving encounter with Jesus, and how their relationship with Him and their community within the Church has transformed their lives, marriage and family. Send us Fan Mail

Former Tyson & Foster Farms CEO Donnie Smith discusses the pitfalls of holding onto past successes and disappointments, how to stay focused on what's ahead, and how to run after God's best plans for your future in life and leadership. Send us Fan Mail

Author, Pastor and Comedian Ted Cunningham joins Pastor Nick Floyd and Jeremy Dixon to discuss finding joy in the crazy seasons and rhythms of family life.Send us Fan Mail

In this episode Wichita State pitcher Caleb Anderson, former Razorback Brandon Moore and guest co-host Rick Schaeffer join Phil McMichael to discuss baseball, leadership, and how to maximize our position and passions for the advancement of God’s kingdom.Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, Jeremy and Phil will talk with Ryan Blackwell about navigating conflict as the leader. Join us as Dr. Blackwell discusses biblical and practical wisdom for handling conflict, and how to lead through conflict in a way that strengthens your team culture.Send us Fan Mail

Brandon Thomas, Keystone ChurchThe fight to finish well — while every believer is aware of the priority that it should hold in our lives, we can easily lose sight of this fight as a motivational focus. In a recent chapel service with our Cross Church staff and CTS residents, Pastor Brandon Thomas dives into the life of Caleb and the characteristics that enabled him to fight the fight to finish well. Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of The RISE Leadership Podcast, Jeremy Dixon and Phil McMichael sit down with our 2025 Freedom Weekend Speaker, Mark Hutchinson. Mark — the Young Adult Pastor from Family Life Church in Tampa, Florida —will take us through his years as a football player at Florida International University, talk about the steps of obedience God led him to take, and how that led to almost 500 student athletes engaging in Bible studies across FIU and the University of Miami. In this episode we’ll look at overcoming fear, walking in obedience, and God’s perfect timing.Send us Fan Mail

In the next episode of the Rise Leadership Podcast, Cross Theological Seminary President Dr. Jeff Crawford discusses the factors to evaluate when considering a career move, and how to search for God’s will in that decision making process.Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, Jeremy and Phil sit down with Mollie, one of our First Impressions Leaders, to talk about the ministry that makes every guest at Cross Church feel like they belong. From friendly greeters from the street to the seats, First Impressions Ministry is all about creating a welcoming environment where people can encounter Jesus. Tune in to learn how you can be part of this impactful team!Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, Jeremy and Phil sit down with Bryant, one of our Student Pastors, to explore world of Student Ministry. From navigating high school heartbreaks to tackling life’s toughest questions, Bryant shares how this ministry creates a space where teenagers can encounter Jesus and find authentic community. Whether you're considering joining the team or simply curious about investing in the next generation, this episode offers an inside look at the joys and challenges of shaping young lives for Christ.Send us Fan Mail

Jeremy and Phil are joined by Cam, one of our Kids Pastors, to talk all things Kids Ministry. From exciting events to the weekly hustle of teaching God’s Word in creative ways, this episode highlights the incredible impact of ministering to 1st through 6th grade kids. Tune in to hear how Kids Ministry equips the next generation for faith and how you can be a part of it!Send us Fan Mail

Jeremy and Phil welcome Jennifer, one of our Women’s Ministry Directors, for a conversation about Women’s Ministry at Cross Church. Discover how this ministry creates space for women to grow in their faith, form meaningful relationships, and navigate life’s seasons with grace and community. If you are curious about what happens in Women’s Ministry, this episode has something for you.Send us Fan Mail

Join Jeremy and Phil as they sit down with Whitney, one of our Preschool Directors, to explore the heart of Preschool Ministry at Cross Church. From goldfish crackers to sharing the love of Jesus with the tiniest members of our church, this episode dives into how this ministry sets the foundation for a lifetime of faith, birth though kindergarten. Whether you’re a parent, a dream teamer, or simply curious about this ministry, this conversation will leave you inspired to get involved!Send us Fan Mail

Join hosts Jeremy Dixon and Phil McMichael as they sit down with Dr. Ronnie Floyd, former Senior Pastor of Cross Church and a respected leader in ministry, to explore the supernatural power of prayer and fasting.   In this episode, Dr. Floyd shares profound insights on how prayer and fasting can deepen your relationship with God, align your heart with His will, and empower you to lead with greater spiritual clarity and strength. Discover practical ways to incorporate fasting into your life and learn why this spiritual discipline is vital for influencing the world around you.   Whether you’re a staff member, dreamteamer, resident, or simply seeking to grow in your faith, this episode will inspire you to pursue God’s presence with persistence, faith, and intimacy. Don’t miss this powerful conversation about a timeless practice that can transform your life and ministry.  Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of The RISE Leadership Podcast, Jeremy Dixon and Phil McMichael sit down with our senior pastor, Dr. Nick Floyd to explore what it means to lead in the local church. From personal leadership habits to influencing your family, workplace, and church, Pastor Nick shares wisdom gained from years of ministry experience. Together, they discuss lessons from his journey as a leader, navigating challenges, and the importance of integrity, vision, and servant-hearted leadership. Whether you’re a Dream Teamer, a seminary resident, or part of the Cross Church staff, this conversation is packed with practical advice and encouragement to help you grow as a leader in every area of your life.Send us Fan Mail

In this inaugural episode of "The RISE Leadership Podcast", we set the stage for what this resource is all about: equipping and inspiring leaders at Cross Church in Northwest Arkansas. Host Jeremy Dixon (Young Adults Pastor) is joined by Phil McMichael (Pastor of Ministries), Davin Benavides (Vice-President of Student Development and Mentoring), and Ryan Blackwell (Executive Pastor) to discuss the heart behind the podcast. Together, they explore the importance of developing volunteers, seminary residents, and staff, highlighting what Cross Church is already doing to invest in its leaders and how this podcast will take those efforts to the next level. With practical insights, vision casting, and a glimpse behind the curtain of Cross Church leadership development, this episode is both an introduction and a call to action for every listener to rise in their calling and impact their ministry, workplace, and community.Send us Fan Mail