The Sowers.

In this episode, Isaiah Bennett and Liam Wilson join Matt to share the origin story of Pony Church and the 10:2 Network. From praying in a mini mart to launching a disciple-making movement, this episode is packed with practical wisdom for anyone passionate about gospel sharing and church planting. What you’ll learn: +How Pony Church started in a convenience store +Why weekly “in the harvest” evang...

As 2025 comes to a close, Matt reflects on key insights and themes from the conversations held during the fall season. Drawing from 12 conversations with leaders across Canada, this episode unpacks six key insights for following Jesus in a post-secular culture: +Unity and collaboration for kingdom impact +Deep formation as the engine of mission +Faithful presence and adaptive leadership +The power...

In this milestone episode, Jon Thompson—Senior Pastor of Sanctus Church, global speaker, and author of "Convergence," "Deliverance," and "Perseverance"—shares wisdom from nearly three decades in ministry. Jon explores the sobering reality that only 30% of biblical leaders finish well, explains four types of vocational calling, and reveals why clarity on calling and spiritual gifts is essential for...

In this episode of The Sowers Podcast, Matt talks with Dustin Boreland, who currently serves at Springvale Church in Stouffville, Ontario, and is pursuing a Doctorate in Practical Theology at McMaster Divinity College. Dustin shares insights from years of ministry—including church planting in Montreal and fostering 15 teenage boys—on how the church can navigate a rapidly changing cultural landscap...

In this episode, Matt sits down with Brooke Nicholls—worship leader, songwriter, and author—to explore her journey of faith, the story behind her newest single “Whatever You Say,” and the beauty of encountering Jesus in both extraordinary and everyday moments. Brooke Nicholls is a worship leader, songwriter, and author from Canada. She’s a two-time Juno Award nominee and ten-time Canadian Gospel M...

In this conversation, Mark Buchanan shares his transformative journey to faith, the significance of storytelling in communication, and the role of scripture in personal transformation. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity in sharing faith and engaging the next generation in meaningful ways. Mark also discusses the richness of diversity in church leadership and the potential for new voices...

In this episode of The Sowers Podcast, Matt Naismith sits down with Sid Koop, Executive Director of Youth Worker Community, to explore the heart and vision behind youth ministry in Canada. With over 25 years of experience—from camp speaker to youth pastor to professor—Sid shares how the gospel has shaped his journey and why equipping youth workers is more vital than ever. Discover how YWC is inspi...

In this episode of The Sowers Podcast, host Matt Naismith sits down with Bishop Jenny Anderson, Rector of St. Paul’s Bloor Street and St. George’s Grange Park in Toronto. Formerly an Area Bishop in the Diocese of Toronto, Bishop Jenny shares her remarkable journey—from growing up in a family of medical missionaries and living across Asia, to transitioning from journalism to ordained ministry in th...

In this episode of The Sowers Podcast, Dr. Keith Taylor shares lessons from more than 40 years of ministry leadership. From his early years in Vernon, BC, to 30 years at Beulah Alliance in Edmonton, Keith reflects on the importance of authentic faith, resilience through hardship, and the centrality of character in leadership. He also opens up about life beyond the pulpit—his journey as a caregiver...

In this deeply personal and inspiring episode of The Sowers Podcast, we sit down with Sunder Krishnan—a man whose journey from nuclear engineering to pastoral ministry is a testament to God’s calling and grace. Born and raised in New Delhi, India, Sunder completed high school in 1961 and graduated from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology in 1967. He went on to earn his Master’s Degree i...

In this conversation, Darrell Johnson—renowned preacher, teacher, and author—shares his journey of faith, the power of preaching, and the importance of listening to the Holy Spirit in everyday witnessing. He reflects on his early encounters with Jesus, his call to ministry influenced by Martin Luther King Jr., and the life-changing nature of the preached word. Darrell also discusses his upcoming b...

In this engaging conversation, Brian Carney, Founder and CEO of Blue Sea Foundation, shares his journey from stockbroker to philanthropy leader. He reflects on the transformative role of faith in his life, the birth of Blue Sea Philanthropy, and the power of peer-to-peer fundraising to help charities grow and thrive. Brian also explores the challenges charities face—like donor engagement and fundi...

In this conversation, Kaitlyn Cey shares her journey and the vision behind Inspire Our Nation, a ministry focused on empowering youth through community engagement and spiritual growth. She unpacks the challenges young people face today, from identity crises to mental health struggles, and emphasizes the church’s calling to walk alongside them with hope, reconciliation, and the transformative power...

In this episode of The Sowers Podcast, Joel Auge and Matthew Grieve share the heart behind Royal Anthems, a national worship movement uniting Canadian songwriters to create fresh expressions of faith. Joel and Matthew open up about their personal journeys in music and ministry, the challenges faced by Canadian worship artists, and the power of collaborative songwriting to shape worship and strengt...

In this episode of The Sowers Podcast, Charles Karugu shares his journey of faith and the deep “holy discontent” that drew him from a business path into vocational ministry. From his early church involvement and life-changing junior high conference experience, to his leadership in youth ministry today, Charles reflects on the critical role of relational connections in reaching this generation. He...

In this episode, the Kingdom Sexuality Ministry crew shares their journey of creating a ministry focused on healthy conversations about sexuality within a Christian context. They discuss their personal stories, the challenges they faced in finding resources, and the misconceptions surrounding sex. The conversation highlights the importance of open dialogue in marriages, the feedback they receive f...

In this compelling conversation, Joshua Leventhal shares how his journey through faith and ministry has shaped his calling as a songwriter and artist. Raised between the prairies of Saskatchewan and Alberta, Joshua explores the impact of place, story, and scripture on his music. He discusses the role of lamentation in worship, the importance of authentic Christian art, and why songwriting should h...

In this compelling conversation, Brent Ingersoll unpacks his personal journey of faith, from a childhood commitment to Christ to a life-changing injury that redirected him into ministry. He reflects on pivotal moments at Kingswood University and the crisis and renewal story of King's Church following a leadership failure. Brent shares powerful insights on leading a presence-driven church, the...

In this engaging conversation, Domenic Ruso shares his journey from a Catholic upbringing in Montreal to becoming a pastor and church planter. He discusses the challenges and joys of navigating faith in a secular culture, the importance of listening to people's questions, and the need for the church to adapt its message for a modern audience. Ruso also reflects on his upcoming book, which aims...

In this conversation, Pastor Mike Cheon shares his remarkable journey from South Korea to Afghanistan, tracing a path that led from the stage as a K-Pop artist to the front lines of mission work in a war-torn nation. He reflects on the challenges and victories of ministering in Afghanistan, his transition to life and ministry in Canada, and his ongoing work with Afghan refugees and immigrant commu...

In this episode, Daniel Im returns to discuss his new book, "The Discipleship Opportunity." He challenges outdated church growth models and explores how today’s church can cultivate disciple-makers rather than passive consumers. Through relatable metaphors and personal insight, Daniel highlights the importance of creating environments where people can truly grow in faith. He also unpacks...

In this recap episode of the Sowers Podcast, Matt reflects on key insights from recent conversations with various guests, including Ezra Okoti, Melinda Estabrooks, Matt Menzel, Jared Brock, and Chris Price. Each guest shared valuable perspectives on church leadership, community, vulnerability, intimacy with Jesus, and the importance of trusting the gospel. The episode emphasizes the need for inclu...

In this conversation, Chris Price shares his transformative journey into pastoral ministry, detailing his early life, the challenges of church planting, and the importance of community and teamwork in ministry. He reflects on the transitions he faced, the grief associated with leaving a familiar environment, and the power of the gospel in reaching people. Chris emphasizes the significance of trust...

In this conversation, Jared opens up about his journey of faith and calling as a writer and filmmaker. He shares how his high school struggles shaped his desire to lead people closer to Jesus through storytelling. Jared discusses the process of writing his latest book, "A Devil Named Lucifer," challenging misconceptions about the devil and calling Christians to ground their beliefs in Sc...

In this episode, Matt Menzel shares his journey of faith, emphasizing intimacy with Jesus, surrender, and the goodness of God. He unpacks the role of the Holy Spirit in preaching, the need for repentance in church life, and the call to create a culture of encounter. Matt also reflects on revival, abiding in Christ, and how deep surrender leads to lasting transformation. Matt is the lead pastor of...