The Christian Leader Podcast

Spiritual formation is more than a buzzword—it’s the slow, intentional process of becoming more like Jesus. But for many pastors and church leaders, formation often gets pushed aside in the rush of ministry demands. In this episode, we explore what spiritual formation really looks like, and why it’s essential—not optional—for those in leadership. Galen Wiest joins us to talk about cultivating rhyt...

This year marks two significant milestones worth our attention and our celebration. While we've already spent time reflecting on the 500th anniversary of the Anabaptist movement, 2025 also marks the 100th anniversary of the Mennonite World Conference (MWC). Recently, leaders from around the globe gathered in Germany and Switzerland to commemorate both anniversaries, and this week, we get the...

What does entrepreneurship have to do with the Church? In this episode, we’re joined by President David Janzen of Tabor College to talk about the unique intersection of business, creativity, and calling. President Janzen shares why Christian entrepreneurs are uniquely positioned to shape culture, solve real-world problems, and live out their faith in bold, innovative ways. We also explore the hear...

How do you train church leaders across dozens of countries and cultures without losing sight of Scripture and mission? In this episode, we talk with Doug Heidebrecht about his work with Missional Leadership Training (MLT), a global program that equips church leaders to disciple others using a biblically grounded, culturally adaptable model. Doug shares how MLT got started, what makes it unique, an...

What does it look like when one church intentionally makes space for multiple languages, cultures, and styles of worship? In this episode, we’re joined by Scott Holman, lead pastor of Butler Church in Fresno, California—a truly multi-congregational church made up of four distinct communities under one roof. Scott shares the beauty and complexity of leading a church that includes services in Englis...

How do you go beyond just “having interns” to actually developing future leaders for the Church? In this episode, we’re joined by Kyle Goings and Andy Owen, who share the story behind Ridgepoint’s Leadership Academy—a structured, intentional program designed to raise up leaders through hands-on ministry experience, mentorship, and spiritual formation. Kyle and Andy explain the difference between i...

Church planting isn’t one-size-fits-all—especially when it happens in the same streets where you once lived a very different life. That’s the story of City Church in Pueblo, Colorado, where Pastor Mario Trujillo leads a ministry shaped by personal transformation, community brokenness, and deep gospel hope. In this episode, Mario shares how his past prepared him to reach his city in powerful ways,...

When disasters strike, how can churches respond in ways that tangibly share Christ’s love? This week, we talk with Jim Holm, co-chair of the California unit of Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS), an organization dedicated to rebuilding homes after natural disasters. Jim shares behind-the-scenes details about how MDS operates, including their “four pillars” that guide decisions on when and how to get...

In a world driven by consumerism, how can we help our kids develop healthy, God-honoring financial habits? On this episode, we talk with author Matt Bell, who shares insights from his book, Trusted , about teaching kids the biblical perspective of money and stewardship. Matt explains practical ways to start early and engage our children on three levels—heart, head, and hands—to create lasting habi...

No two church plants look the same, but every successful one shares a common thread—God’s faithfulness. In this special narrative episode, we explore the journeys of three thriving MB church plants: SouthLife Church in Wichita, Lighthouse Church in Oaklawn, and Lakeview Church in Tooele County, Utah. Each church faced unique challenges, from failed launches and financial struggles to reaching comm...

Preaching is more than just delivering a message—it’s a sacred responsibility. This week, we sit down with Brent Warkentin, lead pastor at Ridgepoint Church, to discuss what goes into preparing and delivering impactful sermons. Brent shares his personal approach to sermon prep, why he practices each message out loud multiple times, and how he stays fresh after decades in ministry. We also explore...

How do we develop strong leaders for the future of the church? At Mountain View Church, leadership development isn’t just a program—it’s part of the culture. This week, we’re joined by Dave Thiessen, executive pastor at Mountain View, to talk about their approach to mentoring, training, and sending out the next generation of church leaders. From summer apprenticeships to international internships...

What makes Anabaptist history radical, and how does it shape who we are today? In this episode, we’re joined by Valerie Rempel, former dean of Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary and a trusted historian in MB circles, to explore the significance of Anabaptism’s 500th anniversary. Valerie walks us through the bold decisions of early Anabaptists, the importance of believer’s baptism, and the challenges...

This week, we sit down with Connie Faber and Janae Shafer, the dynamic duo behind the Christian Leader magazine. They share how each issue comes together, from planning themes to collaborating with writers across the USMB family. With a mission to connect churches, celebrate stories, and inspire action, the magazine plays a vital role in reflecting the heart of the Mennonite Brethren community. Co...

This week, we’re joined by USMB National Director Aaron Box to explore the role of generosity in leadership. As we dive into the history of Giving Tuesday and its impact, Aaron shares practical ways we can live out generosity—not just in giving, but in how we lead others. From creating a culture of service in our churches to fostering servant leadership in every sphere, Aaron highlights the import...

Supporting missionaries abroad has long been a valued part of our heritage, but how can we live ‘on mission’ right here at home? Today we’re joined by Heidi Quiring and Silvia Lopez from Multiply to share the latest updates on mission programs like SOAR, Action, and Trek—each designed to help people of all ages make a difference locally and globally.  Multiply is reshaping their programs to show t...

Leadership development is one of USMB's core commitments, and finding new ways to grow, stretch yourself, or gain new skills is a crucial part of leadership. In our busy world where we all feel short on time, how can we continue to grow, find new resources, and discover meaningful new ideas? Earlier this year USMB launched Leadership Fuel, a website devoted to sharing curated leadership resou...

This week we chat with Pastor Matt Thrift about his new book, Follow , and the heart of discipleship. Matt shares his journey from Southern Baptist circles to finding a home in the Mennonite Brethren tradition, drawn by our mix of strong theology and practical love for others. Matt explains that discipleship isn’t about checking boxes but developing a real, ongoing relationship with Jesus. We also...

Building bridges across cultural and religious divides can seem daunting, yet it's at the heart of authentic Christian ministry. In this episode, we meet Cody and Janna, two young workers preparing to serve in the Middle East through Multiply who show us how genuine relationships can transcend perceived barriers.  Through their ministry in this region so far, Janna and Cody have discovered a...

Many Christians in America today feel ill-equipped to share their faith with Muslims. Our media and our culture tend to paint Muslims in a certain way that often makes us feel intimidated and maybe even scared, but those biases are almost always unfounded and unfair. As we hear from today's guest, sharing about Jesus really comes down to humility, curiosity, and sincerity, regardless of our c...

Next year marks a significant anniversary for our MB history and heritage, so we're preparing for a big party! The roots of our MB tradition can be traced to 1525 and the birth of the Anabaptist movement beginning in Zurich. For those of us involved with USMB, it's helpful for us to remember that our heritage and our roots go way beyond our U.S. history, and this event is a meaningful ch...

This week we get to know James Moore, the recently appointed eastern district minister. In addition to this important role, James is also the lead pastor of West End MB Church in Lenoir, North Carolina. James discusses the joys and challenges of serving in both roles, including his role in helping immigrant Congolese churches become more self-sustaining.  Before James became a pastor, he served a...

This week, Fred and Esther Leonard from Mountain View Church in Fresno, California, share their passion for global missions and how they've integrated it into their church's DNA over the past 31 years. The Leonards discuss their upcoming "Live the Mission" conference and their extensive experience in missions work across 37 countries. They emphasize the importance of partnering...

This week we speak with Donna Sullivan and Lori Taylor, two long-serving staff members of USMB who are retiring and concluding their careers this week. Over their decades of experience, their roles have changed significantly over time, and today they discuss some of their favorite experiences and reflections on their careers in church administration and ministry.  Behind-the-scenes heroes like Lor...

Our resident MB historian Peggy Goertzen is back for another episode of history and storytelling, this time recounting the early days and foundation of the Latin America Mennonite Brethren (LAMB) district. Back in the 1930s, MB pioneers Peter E. Penner, Harry Neufeld, and others were trailblazers in reaching Spanish-speaking people near the Rio Grande Valley. After years of hard work and multiple...