UNSCRIPTED with Dino Rizzo

“If you approach church planting like an expert, you’ll eventually become a critic of other churches.” Pastor Jason Laird knows a thing or two about the journey of a church planter. Learning how to contextualize ministry in San Francisco, where he planted in 2017, to supporting church planters with ARC, and now as a church planter again in Tennessee, Jason is passionate about approaching the city where you’re called as a student, not an expert. ”We were forced to move the second Sunday after we launched and then held five services on a rooftop for eight Sundays.” Pastor Mayo Sowell shares how learning to adapt and be flexible is key in church planting. When he and his wife, Kai, felt called to move back to their hometown, Atlanta, he knew it was to bring life to a place where he had experienced death. He loves the pace of Atlanta, how industries are booming, and how so many people from all walks of life are curious about church. In this first episode of Unscripted Season 4, Dino interviews Mayo and Jason about the many aspects of a church planter’s wild experience following the call of God. Some of the topics they discuss include: Getting to know your community so that you can embrace it fully with the heart of God Honoring the spiritual mothers and fathers in your city How to give and receive relational support among peers Managing your expectations through transitions and building phases Relocating your family successfully They also share what they’re seeing for the future of the church, the hunger for God they’re witnessing among people, and how pastors are collaborating on new methodologies for the times. ____________  The Association of Related Churches (ARC) is a cooperative of independent churches from different denominations, networks, and backgrounds who strategically resource church planters and pastors to help them reach people with the message of Jesus. Since 2000, ARC has helped to plant more than 1,070 churches worldwide. If you have a dream in your heart to start a life-giving church and reach your city with the message of Jesus, ARC is here to come alongside you in the journey. Attending ARC Launch, a church planter training event, is the first step in planting a church with ARC. You will hear from ARC pastors, coaches, and staff as they share the nuts and bolts of church planting. Discover more and register for ARC Launch at ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.arcchurches.com/launch/⁠⁠⁠⁠.  Don’t Do Ministry Alone - We need relationships to thrive. You need other people in your corner, who have gone through similar things that you’ve gone through, and believe in your dream. ARC provides opportunities for you to build relationships with others in ministry that will support and strengthen you in what God has called you to do. Learn more at ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.arcchurches.com/connect/⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Unscripted Season 4 is here with fresh conversations full of raw authenticity and insightful leadership wisdom. Join Dino as he interviews eleven inspiring leaders, from seasoned pastors to CEO’s, each bringing a unique perspective and a rich depth of experience to the table.  “The comparison game gets me to look to the right or the left, but my race is not against you, it’s against my own potential.” Pastor Steve Robinson shares openly about the comparison trap so many pastors and leaders get entangled in and how to avoid it. Dino tours their new building under construction, and they discuss what expansion has meant to Church of the King, which has been gathering since 1999.  Freshly navigating the unknowns and curveballs of church planting, Pastors Mayo Sowell and Jason Laird sit down with Dino for an intriguing discussion. Their conversation spans several important topics like contextualizing ministry for your city, managing your expectations, and keeping your family healthy when you relocate.  “Servant leadership is the heart and soul of successful leadership.” Pastor Brett Jones shares many leadership lessons from his uncommon experience of co-pastoring with his brother. He unpacks the exemplary mentoring model of Elijah and Elisha and how  it demonstrates a successful transition from generation to generation, revealing what can get done when no one cares who gets the credit. “Every strong leader I’ve seen in my life is passionate. They always rise to a higher level.” Dwight Sandlin founded “Signature Homes”, one of the South’s leading residential developers. Dino asks him to unpack many angles of leadership including keys to building a healthy organization and how to stay in the game when you want to give up.  These guests along with Pastors Daniel and Tammy Floyd, Shaun and Diane Nepstad, Terry Crist, and Aaron Burke, freely offer their experiences, challenges, and hard-earned wisdom. We hope you are envisioned and encouraged through these interviews. Tune in to Season 4 of “Unscripted” and join the conversation on Youtube or any podcast platform. We’re so glad you’re here! 

“I thought freedom was I would never have a panic attack - I would never be anxious. But through a lot of study, prayer, and counseling, I discovered freedom wasn’t the absence of those things, it was connecting to a power greater than myself in the middle of those things.” Diagnosed with an anxiety panic disorder over 30 years ago (in a time when no one ever heard of it or spoke of it), Pastor Toby Slough recounts how he began a journey of discovering what true freedom is and how important it is for parents to find their freedom and disciple their kids. As he started the leadership transition of Cross Timbers Church, Toby felt called to step into a new season of ministering to families and raising awareness for mental health wellness. His dream is to change the conversation and help the Church step up to the plate with the answers.  “Jesus offers something better if we can learn how to stop being so prescriptive and start being more validating about these issues.”  Goby Ministries was launched to change the awareness, perception, and wellness for those dealing with mental health challenges by empowering a global audience through Jesus led mental health resources, coaching, and community. The ministry seeks to give people practical tools to help disciple their kids with the right language.  Dino and Toby unpack many angles about church leadership and mental health. Their conversation includes:  Planting a church in a place that doesn’t make sense, but you know God is in it Letting go and grieving during seasons of transition The importance of regular communication during leadership transitions Connecting families to God’s power so that parents can help their children through mental health struggles Fighting what you feel with what you know “We try to help families connect God’s power to the very real issues kids are dealing with. As parents, the best thing you can give your kids is a healthy you.” Toby is passionate about seeing families find freedom and children learning how to have confidence, courage, and compassion. You will be encouraged as a parent, pastor, and leader by joining this conversation. ____________  The Association of Related Churches (ARC) is a cooperative of independent churches from different denominations, networks, and backgrounds who strategically resource church planters and pastors to help them reach people with the message of Jesus. Since 2000, ARC has helped to plant more than 1,070 churches worldwide. If you have a dream in your heart to start a life-giving church and reach your city with the message of Jesus, ARC is here to come alongside you in the journey. Attending ARC Launch, a church planter training event, is the first step in planting a church with ARC. You will hear from ARC pastors, coaches, and staff as they share the nuts and bolts of church planting. Discover more and register for ARC Launch at ⁠⁠⁠https://www.arcchurches.com/launch/⁠⁠⁠.  Don’t Do Ministry Alone - We need relationships to thrive. You need other people in your corner, who have gone through similar things that you’ve gone through, and believe in your dream. ARC provides opportunities for you to build relationships with others in ministry that will support and strengthen you in what God has called you to do. Learn more at ⁠⁠⁠https://www.arcchurches.com/connect/⁠⁠⁠.

“I think the Lord has tremendous compassion for people struggling in marriage.” Pastor Jimmy Evans recounts his journey from being a “creep who cheated on his wife right before they got married” to pastoring a church for over 30 years, celebrating his 50th wedding anniversary, and seeing countless marriages rescued and restored.  He’s the Founder and President of XO Marriage, a ministry devoted to helping couples thrive in strong and fulfilling marriages and host of “the Tipping Point” show. During his service as Senior Pastor of Trinity Fellowship Church in Amarillo, Texas, where he now serves as Apostolic Elder, the church grew from 900 to over 10,000 members.  Dino and Jimmy dig into many different aspects of marriage, leadership, and the end times. Their discussion includes:  How to trust the Lord’s timing when you feel “passed by” and work through feelings of inferiority The importance of understanding the end times properly so you aren’t facing these times in fear Three important things pastors should be paying attention to in their local church The view that the church is the only institution on Earth that can teach people about marriage “I can change the world with Jesus and marriage.”  Jimmy believes that Jesus and marriage go hand in hand for people’s success, fulfillment, and health. He emphasizes the importance of pastors preaching about marriage because it is transformative and foundational - and a way to actually be relevant and not just “cool.” He also leads a ministry to educate people about the end times and contextualize what’s happening in the world. “30% of the Bible is prophetic and this is the most prophesied period of time in human history.”  He believes if you understand the end times properly, you get excited and comforted, not fearful. ____________  The Association of Related Churches (ARC) is a cooperative of independent churches from different denominations, networks, and backgrounds who strategically resource church planters and pastors to help them reach people with the message of Jesus. Since 2000, ARC has helped to plant more than 1,070 churches worldwide. If you have a dream in your heart to start a life-giving church and reach your city with the message of Jesus, ARC is here to come alongside you in the journey. Attending ARC Launch, a church planter training event, is the first step in planting a church with ARC. You will hear from ARC pastors, coaches, and staff as they share the nuts and bolts of church planting. Discover more and register for ARC Launch at ⁠⁠⁠https://www.arcchurches.com/launch/⁠⁠⁠.  Don’t Do Ministry Alone - We need relationships to thrive. You need other people in your corner, who have gone through similar things that you’ve gone through, and believe in your dream. ARC provides opportunities for you to build relationships with others in ministry that will support and strengthen you in what God has called you to do. Learn more at ⁠⁠⁠https://www.arcchurches.com/connect/⁠⁠⁠.

“Prayer became more than an activity, it became our culture.” Michael and Lorisa Miller started a prayer meeting in a small, upstairs office space overlooking downtown Dallas in April of 2010. From that “upper room” prayer meeting, God birthed a movement of prayer and worship in Dallas that continues to grow to this day, expanding into cities all over the world. Michael and Dino sit down to discuss their journey in what Michael affectionately calls “the most unconventional church plant we stumbled into.” Their discussion includes:  How defining “prayer” laid the foundation for relationship in their community Ministering to the Lord as their first love while letting prayer serve as their best evangelism tool  Miraculous salvation stories from people encountering the presence of God “Gen Z for Jesus” and how they’re reaching the next generation in a raw, gritty way Simplifying things as a leader and equipping people for the hour we’re living in Michael also shares about the hunger in their community to experience the presence of God in a real way. Even though he was most comfortable in the suburbs because he understood the problems in “the burbs” and how to reach that community, he saw that prayer was the only strategy working in the downtown demographic, and God had called them there for that reason. “They’re hungry. Cultural Christianity is not going to sustain us. Checking a box is not going to sustain us.” ____________  The Association of Related Churches (ARC) is a cooperative of independent churches from different denominations, networks, and backgrounds who strategically resource church planters and pastors to help them reach people with the message of Jesus. Since 2000, ARC has helped to plant more than 1,070 churches worldwide. If you have a dream in your heart to start a life-giving church and reach your city with the message of Jesus, ARC is here to come alongside you in the journey. Attending ARC Launch, a church planter training event, is the first step in planting a church with ARC. You will hear from ARC pastors, coaches, and staff as they share the nuts and bolts of church planting. Discover more and register for ARC Launch at ⁠⁠⁠https://www.arcchurches.com/launch/⁠⁠⁠.  Don’t Do Ministry Alone - We need relationships to thrive. You need other people in your corner, who have gone through similar things that you’ve gone through, and believe in your dream. ARC provides opportunities for you to build relationships with others in ministry that will support and strengthen you in what God has called you to do. Learn more at ⁠⁠⁠https://www.arcchurches.com/connect/⁠⁠⁠.

“Some of the greatest developing leaders in our church are still young.” Milestone Church celebrated 20 years last fall. Pastor Jeff Little and Dino Rizzo tour Milestone’s new facilities and discuss the journey of pastoring through so many seasons, the importance of relationships, and being authentic instead of polished.“ You can go to a small church that feels cold or a big church that feels cold, it’s really about culture.”  Jeff shares how Milestone is like a fusion restaurant, blending things together that are rarely together. He finds people appreciate the intentionality and excellence to serve them but they’re surprised by the authenticity and the family feel. And they’re even more surprised that as the church grows, Milestone still maintains the relational connections. Dino and Jeff dig into some of the biggest themes of his pastoring experience including:  How he’s instilled value in each member of Milestone since day one The miracle of the property they were able to acquire How not to be intimidated by the next generation and make space for their gifts and calling to grow The importance of understanding the meaning of the original text when preaching the Word  How to maintain the spirit and culture that brought you to new levels of growth Jeff explains how shepherding people is all about taking care of who you have through every season and how they’re working more intentional than ever to maintain the spirit and the culture that brought them to this point.They also discuss the importance of supporting and blessing church planters. When asked what encouragement he has for young pastors, Jeff advises, “don’t get so consumed with success that you miss the moment. Don’t be in such a hurry. Jesus builds His Church.”  ____________  The Association of Related Churches (ARC) is a cooperative of independent churches from different denominations, networks, and backgrounds who strategically resource church planters and pastors to help them reach people with the message of Jesus. Since 2000, ARC has helped to plant more than 1,070 churches worldwide. If you have a dream in your heart to start a life-giving church and reach your city with the message of Jesus, ARC is here to come alongside you in the journey. Attending ARC Launch, a church planter training event, is the first step in planting a church with ARC. You will hear from ARC pastors, coaches, and staff as they share the nuts and bolts of church planting. Discover more and register for ARC Launch at ⁠⁠⁠https://www.arcchurches.com/launch/⁠⁠⁠.  Don’t Do Ministry Alone - We need relationships to thrive. You need other people in your corner, who have gone through similar things that you’ve gone through, and believe in your dream. ARC provides opportunities for you to build relationships with others in ministry that will support and strengthen you in what God has called you to do. Learn more at ⁠⁠⁠https://www.arcchurches.com/connect/⁠⁠⁠.

“We started with honor and believe we’ve seen so much favor because of that.” Earl and Oneka McClellan are the founders and lead pastors of Shoreline City Church based in Dallas, Texas. They started Shoreline with a Bible study in a nursing home in 2012 and have grown into multiple locations, services, and expanded internationally into Guatemala. They’ve been married for over 20 years with three children, and are both visionaries and dynamic communicators who are passionate about cultivating leaders. Dino visits them in Dallas, where they unpack many aspects of Shoreline’s start as well as their commitment to a healthy marriage and partnership throughout all stages. They talk about the beginning of their journey and how they planned to move to a highly unchurched area until they felt God’s call to Dallas. Through seeking counsel and honoring local pastors, they were able to find the right part of the city to plant Shoreline. Recognizing they are standing on the shoulders of so many pastors who plowed the ground before them, they committed to honoring local pastors in every step. They also celebrate finding the lost, doing life together, and not just finding people who are already in great communities. The conversation covers many topics including: How to honor and take your time to land in the right place Learning how to lead together as a team and overcome your individual insecurities Feeding confidence and security into your spouse/co-leader How the roles of ‘architect’ and ‘general contractor’ helped them define their own roles The one thing they didn’t do when launching that they wish they had  Dealing with criticism, skeptics, and the pain of relationships that shift  They also talk about one of the displayed messages throughout their building which shows the heartbeat of their church: You are loved. You are valued. You are believed in.  ____________  The Association of Related Churches (ARC) is a cooperative of independent churches from different denominations, networks, and backgrounds who strategically resource church planters and pastors to help them reach people with the message of Jesus. Since 2000, ARC has helped to plant more than 1,070 churches worldwide. If you have a dream in your heart to start a life-giving church and reach your city with the message of Jesus, ARC is here to come alongside you in the journey. Attending ARC Launch, a church planter training event, is the first step in planting a church with ARC. You will hear from ARC pastors, coaches, and staff as they share the nuts and bolts of church planting. Discover more and register for ARC Launch at ⁠⁠https://www.arcchurches.com/launch/⁠⁠.  Don’t Do Ministry Alone - We need relationships to thrive. You need other people in your corner, who have gone through similar things that you’ve gone through, and believe in your dream. ARC provides opportunities for you to build relationships with others in ministry that will support and strengthen you in what God has called you to do. Learn more at ⁠⁠https://www.arcchurches.com/connect/⁠⁠.

“I never played for the fame. Once I became a believer, I knew this was a platform God had given me and how I used it would be a reflection of my love for Him.” Kevin Mawae is a football coach and former professional player who played in the NFL for 16 seasons, most notably with the New York Jets. Mawae played college football at LSU, where he was a first-team All-SEC, and was selected by the Seattle Seahawks in the second round of the 1994 NFL Draft. After joining the Jets in 1998, he received six consecutive Pro Bowl selections and five-first All-Pro honors during his eight seasons with the team. Mawae spent his final four seasons as a member of the Tennessee Titans, extending his Pro Bowl selections to eight and his first-team All-Pro honors to seven. He was inducted to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2019 and is currently the head coach at Lipscomb Academy. Dino and Kevin’s friendship started when Kevin and his wife attended a service at Healing Place Church in search of answers. Their spiritual hunger and desire to understand the ways of God in a deeper, more personal way led them to commit their lives to Jesus and live passionately for Him. Dino and Kevin sit down at Lipscomb Academy and have a wide ranging conversation including: Facing doubt in the midst of personal tragedy The principle of tithing and how Kevin and his wife learned to give from a place of freedom and faith Letting the best version of you shine through and stop trying to be like other people Being excellent at what you're good at and not solely focusing on improving your weaknesses How to leave a legacy with the next generation by mentoring them instead of being threatened by them You’ll also witness a never-been-done-before moment on Unscripted when Dino takes a snap from a Hall of Famer. ____________ The Association of Related Churches (ARC) is a cooperative of independent churches from different denominations, networks, and backgrounds who strategically resource church planters and pastors to help them reach people with the message of Jesus. Since 2000, ARC has helped to plant more than 1,070 churches worldwide. If you have a dream in your heart to start a life-giving church and reach your city with the message of Jesus, ARC is here to come alongside you in the journey. Attending ARC Launch, a church planter training event, is the first step in planting a church with ARC. You will hear from ARC pastors, coaches, and staff as they share the nuts and bolts of church planting. Discover more and register for ARC Launch at ⁠https://www.arcchurches.com/launch/⁠. Don’t Do Ministry Alone - We need relationships to thrive. You need other people in your corner, who have gone through similar things that you’ve gone through, and believe in your dream. ARC provides opportunities for you to build relationships with others in ministry that will support and strengthen you in what God has called you to do. Learn more at ⁠https://www.arcchurches.com/connect/⁠.

Kicking off the much-anticipated Season 3 of "Unscripted," Dino sits down with Mark Pettus, Highlands College President, at Legacy Arena in Birmingham, AL. After 13,000 students gather at the Motion Conference, they discuss a wide range of topics about reaching the next generation. “If there’s anything that’s a long game, it’s building Student Ministries.” Dino asks Mark thought-provoking questions about student ministry. They unpack the challenges this generation faces, what needs to change in student ministry, and how authentic relationships mean more to students than the platform.  “Students are more connected, yet disconnected than ever before… I love LED’s and all the bells and whistles, but the greatest evangelistic tool you have right now is real relationships.” Mark expresses the importance of focusing on small groups and how that led to more growth than any service or event. He explains the framework of their ministry and how they follow it at large events by making sure there is connection in small groups.  They discuss more about:  The role of technology and how they emphasize real connection for students How to tailor your preaching and experiences to different age groups Why so many churches are missing the 19-26 age group  Developing leaders and helping students discover their calling  You’ll also see some behind-the-scenes footage at Motion Conference as Dylan Rizzo interviews different youth groups, leaders, students, and the pre-service rally.

Unscripted is back with a fresh season full of inspiring interviews you don’t want to miss. Join Dino as he sits down with some dynamic guests from church planters to seasoned pastors. Conversations span a broad range of topics between leaders of the next generation, an influential prayer and worship movement, and an NFL Hall of Famer turned coach. One thread between all these impressive guests - they are driven by a shared mission to create a meaningful and lasting impact.  “If you know who God created you to be, you can overcome anything.” Toby Slough, pastor and mental health expert, shares hard-earned wisdom about turning your own mental health struggles into a powerful tool in your life to help others.  On the heels of thousands of students attending the Motion Conference, Dino interviews Mark Pettus in the Legacy Arena to unpack ministering to the next generation, their mental health struggles, and building a leadership culture.  (*use pic) “If Jimmy Evans can succeed in marriage, any human being can succeed in marriage.” Pastor Jimmy Evans shares openly about his struggle as a selfish, dominant husband and how God transformed their marriage and ministry. Hearing his honest, raw perspective is a reminder no situation is without hope.  These guests along with Jeff Little, Earl and Oneka McClellan, Michael Miller, and Kevin Mawae, generously share their experiences, struggles, ideas, and wisdom. You will laugh, cry, and be inspired through all these interviews.

“We ‘beat the odds’ - our original launch team was on the team and staff for 7-8 years because we pastored them from day one. We do it for the one.” Kyle and Liz Turner are the Lead Pastors of Kingdom City Church in Kansas, City, MO. Building the local church together for over a decade, they, along with their three incredible kids, are passionate about pastoring people and seeing them come alive in Jesus. Dino sits down with Kyle for an in-depth conversation in Kansas City. They unpack multiple angles of leadership, family, launching, transitioning, and serving your city. They discuss: - What worked building a team to launch that still works now - how to transfer that heart of care so that you don’t lose that as you grow - how to stay Holy Spirit dependent and never take the pulpit for granted - making big changes out of pain and/or needing progress - how to honor through the transitions and not burn bridges - activating your church to serve the marginalized - being transparent with your peers and identifying your false narratives “We’re a hundred year old church in-the-making. We’re twelve years in...to one hundred years.” Kyle shares about how they’re preparing for the future through youth ministry, involving and hiring the next generation, and sustaining their passion to reach as many people as possible in their city. You’ll be so inspired by Kyle’s authenticity, transparency, and hard-earned leadership lessons. ____________ The Association of Related Churches (ARC) is a cooperative of independent churches from different denominations, networks, and backgrounds who strategically resource church planters and pastors to help them reach people with the message of Jesus. Since 2000, ARC has helped to plant more than 1,070 churches worldwide. If you have a dream in your heart to start a life-giving church and reach your city with the message of Jesus, ARC is here to come alongside you in the journey. Attending ARC Launch, a church planter training event, is the first step in planting a church with ARC. You will hear from ARC pastors, coaches, and staff as they share the nuts and bolts of church planting. Discover more and register for ARC Launch at https://www.arcchurches.com/launch/. Don’t Do Ministry Alone - We need relationships to thrive. You need other people in your corner, who have gone through similar things that you’ve gone through, and believe in your dream. ARC provides opportunities for you to build relationships with others in ministry that will support and strengthen you in what God has called you to do. Learn more at https://www.arcchurches.com/connect/.

Davey Blackburn is a church planter, coach, author, speaker, podcaster, and founder of Nothing is Wasted Ministry. In 2015, four years after they moved to Indianapolis to plant a church, his pregnant wife of 7 years was murdered in their home during a break-in.  “When you’re in ministry, you almost have this unwritten agreement with the Lord. If we’re gonna be in the center of your will, and we’re gonna sacrifice, we know we’re going to experience ‘hard’, but You’re going to protect my family. It shattered my world that something so horrific could happen to us.” Dino sits down with Davey for a raw and inspiring conversation. They explore Davey’s story, walking through deep pain and how God is using Nothing is Wasted Ministry. UNSCRIPTED follows ARC Executive Director, Dino Rizzo as he visits with incredible pastors and leaders around the world. These leaders are serving and giving their lives to the cause of Jesus Christ and making a huge difference in their communities. They get raw and real, discussing stories of church planting, leadership, struggles, relationships- all unscripted, of course. You’ll witness the incredible strength in diversity as he explores different regions and churches who each have their own cultures and experiences. ____________ The Association of Related Churches (ARC) is a cooperative of independent churches from different denominations, networks, and backgrounds who strategically resource church planters and pastors to help them reach people with the message of Jesus. Since 2000, ARC has helped to plant more than 1,070 churches worldwide. If you have a dream in your heart to start a life-giving church and reach your city with the message of Jesus, ARC is here to come alongside you in the journey. Attending ARC Launch, a church planter training event, is the first step in planting a church with ARC. You will hear from ARC pastors, coaches, and staff as they share the nuts and bolts of church planting. Discover more and register for ARC Launch at https://www.arcchurches.com/launch/.

“Our hope is that we can disciple and teach people how to leverage their influence to pull others up and push them forward. We want our city to experience the victory of Jesus Christ.” Mayo and Kai Sowell are the founders and senior pastors of LIIV Atlanta, launched in September 2022. Mayo, a former pro football player who met Jesus his fifth year in prison, and Kai knew they were called to go back to Atlanta, the city where Mayo sold drugs, so that they could share true life with as many people as possible. Dino sits down with Mayo for a candid interview in front of a live audience of pastors participating in an ARC Launch Training in Birmingham, AL. They unpack Mayo’s redemptive story, journey to launch, and firsthand experience of planting a church, including the highs and lows. UNSCRIPTED follows ARC Executive Director, Dino Rizzo as he visits with incredible pastors and leaders around the world. These leaders are serving and giving their lives to the cause of Jesus Christ and making a huge difference in their communities. They get raw and real, discussing stories of church planting, leadership, struggles, relationships- all unscripted, of course. You’ll witness the incredible strength in diversity as he explores different regions and churches who each have their own cultures and experiences. ____________ The Association of Related Churches (ARC) is a cooperative of independent churches from different denominations, networks, and backgrounds who strategically resource church planters and pastors to help them reach people with the message of Jesus. Since 2000, ARC has helped to plant more than 1,070 churches worldwide. If you have a dream in your heart to start a life-giving church and reach your city with the message of Jesus, ARC is here to come alongside you in the journey. Attending ARC Launch, a church planter training event, is the first step in planting a church with ARC. You will hear from ARC pastors, coaches, and staff as they share the nuts and bolts of church planting. Discover more and register for ARC Launch at https://www.arcchurches.com/launch/.

“If God pours out His Spirit and no-one ever does anything, then we just had a good church service. What we need is more workers.” Chris Hodges is the founder and senior pastor of Church of the Highlands in Birmingham, AL. Under his leadership, Church of the Highlands has launched campuses all over the state of Alabama. He also co-founded the Association of Related Churches, leads a coaching network called GrowLeader, and serves as chancellor of Highlands College, an accredited, hands-on ministry training college. Dino and Chris tour the newly renovated Grandview campus, which not only serves as Highlands’ second largest campus but also home to Highlands College and the central staff offices. UNSCRIPTED follows ARC Executive Director, Dino Rizzo as he visits with incredible pastors and leaders around the world. These leaders are serving and giving their lives to the cause of Jesus Christ and making a huge difference in their communities. They get raw and real, discussing stories of church planting, leadership, struggles, relationships- all unscripted, of course. You’ll witness the incredible strength in diversity as he explores different regions and churches who each have their own cultures and experiences. The Association of Related Churches (ARC) is a cooperative of independent churches from different denominations, networks, and backgrounds who strategically resource church planters and pastors to help them reach people with the message of Jesus. Since 2000, ARC has helped to plant more than 1,070 churches worldwide. If you have a dream in your heart to start a life-giving church and reach your city with the message of Jesus, ARC is here to come alongside you in the journey. Attending ARC Launch, a church planter training event, is the first step in planting a church with ARC. You will hear from ARC pastors, coaches, and staff as they share the nuts and bolts of church planting. Discover more and register for ARC Launch at https://www.arcchurches.com/launch/.

“It’s not just a way for your eternity, it’s a way for your life.”  Noah and Maddy Herrin, one of ARC’s first Gen Z church planting couples, are preparing to launch Way Church in Nashville, TN in August 2023. Dino and son, Dylan, interview them in Nashville to hear about their launch process and the season of preparation that got them to where they are.   They share about the privilege of serving under Noah’s parents, who they describe as the best “shepherds” they’ve ever witnessed. This up-close-and-personal pastoral mentorship helped them see the type of pastors they want to be.  UNSCRIPTED follows ARC Executive Director, Dino Rizzo as he visits with incredible pastors and leaders around the world. These leaders are serving and giving their lives to the cause of Jesus Christ and making a huge difference in their communities. They get raw and real, discussing stories of church planting, leadership, struggles, relationships- all unscripted, of course. You’ll witness the incredible strength in diversity as he explores different regions and churches who each have their own cultures and experiences.    The Association of Related Churches (ARC) is a cooperative of independent churches from different denominations, networks, and backgrounds who strategically resource church planters and pastors to help them reach people with the message of Jesus.  Since 2000, ARC has helped to plant more than 1,050 churches worldwide. If you have a dream in your heart to start a life-giving church and reach your city with the message of Jesus, ARC is here to come alongside you in the journey. Attending ARC Launch, a church planter training event, is the first step in planting a church with ARC. You will hear from ARC pastors, coaches, and staff as they share the nuts and bolts of church planting. Discover more and register for ARC Launch at https://www.arcchurches.com/launch/.

Vance Roush serves as the executive pastor at Vive Church in the Bay area with lead pastors Adam & Keira Smallcombe. His background is in technology, having launched his career at Google and named “one of 2022’s rising innovators to watch” by The Silicon Valley Business Journal. He’s also the founder and CEO of Overflow, a technology company that empowers nonprofits, churches, and corporations to accept non-cash donations, like stocks and crypto, in a streamlined way.  Dino and Vance sit down in a laid-back interview at the ARC studio in Birmingham, AL, which serves as a visual for how generosity and technology can be used to advance the Kingdom. They unpack Vance’s unique story, from being recruited into church planting in the Bay area to his career at Google, and how he was able to see a problem in the church and innovate a solution. UNSCRIPTED follows ARC Executive Director, Dino Rizzo as he visits with incredible pastors and leaders around the world. These leaders are serving and giving their lives to the cause of Jesus Christ and making a huge difference in their communities. They get raw and real, discussing stories of church planting, leadership, struggles, relationships- all unscripted, of course. You’ll witness the incredible strength in diversity as he explores different regions and churches who each have their own cultures and experiences. The Association of Related Churches (ARC) is a cooperative of independent churches from different denominations, networks, and backgrounds who strategically resource church planters and pastors to help them reach people with the message of Jesus.  Since 2000, ARC has helped to plant more than 1,050 churches worldwide. If you have a dream in your heart to start a life-giving church and reach your city with the message of Jesus, ARC is here to come alongside you in the journey. Attending ARC Launch, a church planter training event, is the first step in planting a church with ARC. You will hear from ARC pastors, coaches, and staff as they share the nuts and bolts of church planting. Discover more and register for ARC Launch at https://www.arcchurches.com/launch/.

Kicking off Season 2 of UNSCRIPTED, Dino Rizzo and son, Dylan, sit down with Rich Wilkerson Jr., pastor of VOUS Church in Miami, FL. In a wide-ranging discussion, they cover Rich’s approach to preaching, what he learned from having a show on the Oxygen Network, and, ultimately, Rich’s passion for lasting in the ministry.   Rich and his wife, DawnChere, founded VOUS Church with the mission to create a church in Downtown Miami that would be a home to all ages and represent the diversity of their beautiful city. They believe in the next generation and value the wisdom and guidance of those that have gone before us.   UNSCRIPTED follows ARC Executive Director, Dino Rizzo as he visits with incredible pastors and leaders around the world. These leaders are serving and giving their lives to the cause of Jesus Christ and making a huge difference in their communities. They get raw and real, discussing stories of church planting, leadership, struggles, relationships- all unscripted, of course. You’ll witness the incredible strength in diversity as he explores different regions and churches who each have their own cultures and experiences.    The Association of Related Churches (ARC) is a cooperative of independent churches from different denominations, networks, and backgrounds who strategically resource church planters and pastors to help them reach people with the message of Jesus.  Since 2000, ARC has helped to plant more than 1,050 churches worldwide. If you have a dream in your heart to start a life-giving church and reach your city with the message of Jesus, ARC is here to come alongside you in the journey. Attending ARC Launch, a church planter training event, is the first step in planting a church with ARC. You will hear from ARC pastors, coaches, and staff as they share the nuts and bolts of church planting. Discover more and register for ARC Launch at https://www.arcchurches.com/launch/. Don’t Do Ministry Alone - We need relationships to thrive. You need other people in your corner, who have gone through similar things that you’ve gone through, and believe in your dream. ARC provides opportunities for you to build relationships with others in ministry that will support and strengthen you in what God has called you to do. Learn more at https://www.arcchurches.com/connect/.

We are excited to announce UNSCRIPTED with Dino Rizzo SEASON 2. UNSCRIPTED follows ARC Executive Director Dino Rizzo as he travels and visits with pastors, church planters, and leaders worldwide. No topic is off limits as they discuss the highs and lows of church planting and pastoring, the leadership lessons they are learning, and ways we can help the local church thrive—all unscripted. Season 2 kicks off Feb. 13 with Dino Rizzo and his son Dylan sitting down with Rich Wilkerson, pastor of VOUS Church in Miami, FL. They talk about everything from church planting in a diverse city to social media and the impact of " influencer culture " on mental health for both pastors and churchgoers alike. The Association of Related Churches (ARC) is a cooperative of independent churches from different denominations, networks, and backgrounds who strategically resource church planters and pastors to help them reach people with the message of Jesus.  Since 2000, ARC has helped to plant more than 1,000 churches worldwide. If you have a dream in your heart to start a life-giving church and reach your city with the message of Jesus, ARC is here to come alongside you in the journey. Attending ARC Launch, a church planter training event, is the first step in planting a church with ARC. You will hear from ARC pastors, coaches, and staff as they share the nuts and bolts of church planting. Discover more and register for ARC Launch at https://www.arcchurches.com/launch/.

Dino sits down with his son, Dylan, in the ARC studio to reflect on some highlights of the debut season of UNSCRIPTED and the 22 years ARC has been planting churches. The secret sauce of these conversations is they truly are unscripted, without any interview questions sent pre-interview. Dino wants to hear straight from the heart, and as Dylan and Dino talk about some of the meaningful moments, it’s obvious the guests shared with raw honesty and humility. The Association of Related Churches (ARC) is a cooperative of independent churches from different denominations, networks, and backgrounds who strategically resource church planters and pastors to help them reach people with the message of Jesus.  Since 2000, ARC has helped to plant 1,057 churches worldwide. If you have a dream in your heart to start a life-giving church and reach your city with the message of Jesus, ARC is here to come alongside you in the journey. Attending ARC Launch, a church planter training event, is the first step in planting a church with ARC. You will hear from ARC pastors, coaches, and staff as they share the nuts and bolts of church planting. Discover more and register for ARC Launch at https://www.arcchurches.com/launch/.

In this episode of UNSCRIPTED Conversations with Dino, John Siebeling, pastor of The Life Church in Memphis, TN says, "Prayer, helping people, leadership, culture, missions, and outreach are all principles that remain the same over the course of a church. We may repackage ideas, but these principles are timeless.”   UNSCRIPTED follows ARC Executive Director, Dino Rizzo as he visits with incredible pastors and leaders around the world. These leaders are serving and giving their lives to the cause of Jesus Christ and making a huge difference in their communities. They get raw and real, discussing stories of church planting, leadership, struggles, relationships- all unscripted, of course. You’ll witness the incredible strength in diversity as he explores different regions and churches who each have their own cultures and experiences. The Association of Related Churches (ARC) is a cooperative of independent churches from different denominations, networks, and backgrounds who strategically resource church planters and pastors to help them reach people with the message of Jesus.