Gird Up! Podcast

Many Christians secretly struggle to reconcile the God of the Old Testament with the Jesus of the New Testament. We moralize the stories, skip the violent passages, and treat the text like a checklist of dos and don'ts rather than a testimony of our Savior. Today, Chad Bird (Scholar in Residence at 1517) joins host Charlie Ungemach to tear down the wall between the Testaments. We dig into the...

In a culture that demands fast, cheap, watered-down answers, our youth are facing an unprecedented identity crisis. Today, we sit down with CL Whiteside—Dean of Students at Wisconsin Lutheran High School and host of The Non-Microwaved Truth podcast. As a leading voice in urban ministry, CL specializes in delivering the raw, unfiltered Gospel to a generation tired of superficial cultural Christiani...

Host Charlie Ungemach is joined by Pastor Jeremiah Wallander and Vicar Cameron Schroeder to talk about what to do when you see your friends living a sinful lifestyle and feel like you’re missing out, how to admonish your friends out of godless living, and prayer as a useful weapon against the devil. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Anecdotes 04:08 Life at Michigan Lutheran Seminary 07:14 V...

On this episode Charlie is joined by Pastor David Kolander for a detailed discussion on the structure, purpose, and challenges of pastoral ministry within the Lutheran church, emphasizing the importance of love for God's word, humility, and community support for pastors. Chapters 00:00 The Call to Pastoral Leadership 18:51 Training and Preparation of Pastors 21:27 Maintaining High Standards in...

Host Charlie Ungemach is joined by Pastor Jeremiah Wallander of Michigan Lutheran Seminary and Vicar Cameron Schroeder of Faith Lutheran Church in Sharpsburg, GA for a conversation exploring the importance of faith, identity, and understanding parental intentions in faith-based upbringing. Jeremiah’s Links: Michigan Lutheran Seminary: http://www.mlsem.org Open Book Bible App: http://Openbook.today...

Matthew Bown of Camp Phillip joins the show for a conversation exploring the high standards set by faith and how cultural exceptions undermine spiritual growth. Charlie and Matthew then explore the role of honesty and integrity in adhering to divine standards. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Camp Philip and Its Mission 05:43 Exploring Camp Philip's Programs and Offerings 08:52 The Unique Cultur...

Charlie is joined by pastors Jacob Ungemach and Josh Schroeder for a conversation about what to do if you’re more comfortable online than at church, an Instagram video that gets us asking, “What’s the best way to address spiritual complacency in the people around us?”, and the intimate, but often misunderstood, relationship between repentance and baptism.  Jacob’s Church: bsavior.com Josh’s Church...

Charlie is joined by pastors Jacob Ungemach and Josh Schroeder to talk about dealing with deconstruction among your friends, a batman video that gets us debating the nuance between sanctification and justification, and Luther’s assertion that there’s a small group of “pure saints” on the earth.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Guests and Their Backgrounds 07:54 Navigating Deconstruction and Dou...

In this episode of the Gird Up Podcast, host Charlie Ungemach engages in a heartfelt conversation with Emily Krill, a student success specialist and founder of Messy Worship. Emily shares her journey of embracing life's chaos and finding God's grace in everyday experiences. The discussion delves into the role of life coaching, the importance of self-awareness, and the integration of faith...

Pastor Jeremiah Wallander of Michigan Lutheran Seminary joins the show to discuss the evolving fears of teenagers from boredom in the 2000s to anxiety about global issues today, highlighting the impact of increased access to information and media on their mental health. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jeremiah Wallander 16:42 Symptoms of Anxiety in Gen Z 21:47 The Impact of Social Media on Youth 32...

Join Charlie Ungemach, Pastor Jacob Klug, and Vicar Ryan Halter as they explore biblical perspectives on gender roles, Christian living, and how to navigate modern societal challenges with faith. This episode offers deep insights into submission, leadership, and trusting God's design for our lives. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Light Banter 03:40 Navigating Conscience and Work Ethics 08:36 P...

Join Charlie Ungemach in a compelling conversation with Pastor Adam Koontz as they explore the cultural shifts, generational changes, and the role of the church in today's complex world. Discover insights on faith, society, and how to navigate the challenges of modern life while staying rooted in Christ. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Conversation 03:42 Navigating Young Christians' Cha...

How do we pursue excellence without making an idol of success? Pastors Jacob Klug and Ryan Halter join the show to dismantle cultural myths about wealth and masculinity. By applying the Law/Gospel distinction to our careers and bank accounts, we move past the "prosperity" trap and toward a life of genuine vocation. Learn why your identity is found in Christ’s finished work, not your net...

In this episode, Joshua Pauling explores how technology subtly erodes our humanity and faith by promoting disembodiment and identity distortion. Discover strategies rooted in Scripture to live an intentional, embodied life that resists digital overload. Perfect for pastors, parents, and anyone overwhelmed by the digital age, this conversation offers hope and practical wisdom to reclaim your time,...

Naomi Schmidt shares insights on women's ministry, building relationships with pastors, and the importance of gendered ministry in the church. Discover practical ways to foster community, understand biblical perspectives, and support one another in faith. Naomi previously appeared on Gird Up to talk about Christian Womanhood on 11/5/2019 and Modern Feminism on 8/10/2021.  Chapters 00:00 Introd...

Caleb, Connor, Cameron, and Charlie talk about Vicar year, then unpack the real meaning behind Irish legends, the significance of the Trinity in Irish prayer, and the humorous yet meaningful stories that make St. Patrick’s Day more than just a party. You'll discover how the ancient prayer of the armor of God can equip us today to face spiritual battles with confidence, and why the Irish blessi...

Have you ever wondered what truly happens during Holy Communion and why it matters so deeply? In this episode, we are joined by John Bombaro to explore the profound theological significance of the Eucharist, its roots in the ancient Catholic tradition, and how a renewed understanding can transform our worship and faith life. 00:00 - Introduction to the significance of the Eucharist in Lutheran fai...

In this conversation, Victor Veith, a prominent figure in child advocacy, discusses the intersection of faith and child protection. He shares his journey into child advocacy, the impact of vicarious trauma on professionals in the field, and the church's historical indifference to child abuse. Victor emphasizes the importance of education, both for the church and for individuals, in addressing...

In this episode, we delve into Flame’s transformative journey from Christian hip hop to confessional Lutheranism, discussing how theology intersects with cultural expression and the importance of doctrinal testing and community. Flame shares insights on race, church history, apologetics, and cultivating unity across diverse communities. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introducing Flame: Faith, Hip Hop, and Th...

Summary In this episode of the Gird Up Podcast, host Charlie Ungemach welcomes George Hogan, a student at Martin Luther College and an accomplished organist, to discuss the significance of liturgy and music in the Lutheran tradition. The conversation begins with George's background in theater and music, highlighting his passion for the organ and its role in worship. They explore the value of y...

Summary In this episode of the GirdUp Podcast, host Charlie Ungemach engages in a deep conversation with Pastor Ben Sadler about his new book, The Meaningful Life. They explore the rise of pastors writing books, the importance of finding meaning in work, and how secular wisdom can complement Christian faith. The discussion delves into the crisis of meaning in modern society, the significance of vo...

Summary In this episode of the Gird Up Podcast, host Charlie Ungemach engages with Pastor Mark Parsons, the Executive Director of Truth and Love Ministry, to discuss the challenges faced by young Christians today, particularly in relation to Latter-day Saints (Mormons). They explore the nature of Mormonism, the importance of understanding Luther's Bondage of the Will, and the role of good works in...

Summary In this episode of the Gird Up podcast, host Charlie Ungemach and guests engage in a lighthearted discussion about Christmas traditions, reflections on the incarnation, and the significance of community. They share personal experiences, toast to the holiday season, and play a fun game of 'Naughty or Nice' regarding various Christmas customs. The conversation emphasizes the importance of li...

Summary In this episode of the Gird Up Podcast, host Charlie Ungemach speaks with Brian Stecker about his new project, Memento, which aims to recapture and revitalize Christian disciplines, particularly for men. They discuss the importance of accountability, the historical practices of the church, and the balance between justification and discipline in the Christian life. The conversation emphasiz...

Summary In this episode of the Gird Up podcast, host Charlie Ungemach and his guests, Pastors Isaiah Duff, Jacob Klug, and Chester Reinemann, discuss the challenges faced by Christians during the holiday season, particularly around Christmas. They explore the pressures of maintaining a joyful facade, the impact of mental health on holiday experiences, and the importance of intentionality in celebr...