The Church Podcast

In this inspiring and wisdom-filled episode, Christopher Wesley sits down with Dr. Kara Powell, Chief of Leadership Formation and Executive Director of the Fuller Youth Institute at Fuller Theological Seminary. Kara is also one of the founders of the TENx10 Collaboration and co-author of Future Focused Church, Growing Young, and 3 Big Questions That Shape Your Future. Together, Christopher and Kara explore what it takes to form young people in an age of distrust, disconnection, and change. Kara shares her own story—from cleaning a youth room kitchen in high school to becoming one of the most respected voices in leadership and ministry formation today. They discuss why listening, mentorship, and trust are the essential building blocks for reaching Gen Z and Gen Alpha, how 10x10 is helping churches work together ecumenically, and why sustainable change in ministry is more like a crockpot than a microwave. Key Takeaways Trust Is Built Through Presence: In a culture of distrust, small consistent acts—like checking in, showing up, and listening—build credibility with young people. The Three Barriers to Mentorship: Adults often hesitate because they feel too busy, not spiritual enough, or not “cool” enough—but real ministry only requires warmth, not perfection. Mental Health and Hope: Gen Z faces unprecedented levels of anxiety, but they are also more open than ever to authentic, caring relationships with trusted adults. Church Change Takes Time: 70% of organizational change efforts fail. Kara shares the Here, There, Who, and How framework from Future Focused Church to help parishes move from vision to transformation. Collaboration Is Essential: TENx10 is uniting Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox leaders to make faith matter more for 10 million young people in the next 10 years. Slow Is Sustainable: Real change in ministry happens through listening, relationship, and patience—embracing the “crockpot” pace of the Holy Spirit. For more visit https://thechurchpodcast.org

In Episode 040 of The Church Podcast, I sit down with Brian Rhude, campus minister at Towson University’s Newman Center, to explore the evolving landscape of campus ministry. Brian shares his remarkable journey from culinary school to campus ministry, highlighting the vital role of mentorship and discipleship for today’s young adults. We discuss the challenges college students face in balancing their faith with academic and social pressures, and how ministries can better support them. Brian emphasizes the importance of placing Christ at the center of life and the need for intergenerational relationships in the Church. Join us as we delve into the unique dynamics of faith on campus and the call to accompany the next generation in their spiritual journeys.

In this insightful and practical episode, Christopher Wesley sits down with Katie Hinderer, founder and CEO of Rosebud Social, a digital marketing agency helping Catholic and mission-driven organizations tell their stories online with clarity and creativity. From journalism to social media strategy, Katie shares her journey of discovering how faith and innovation can meet in the digital space. Together, they explore the intersection of communication, culture, and mission—how parishes, schools, and ministries can move beyond event flyers and start sharing authentic stories that evoke belonging, inspire trust, and build real community. Katie also offers a behind-the-scenes look at how she leads a remote creative team, integrates AI tools ethically, and balances hustle with holiness. Key Takeaways The Power of Presence Online: The Church must reclaim its place as a leader in art, culture, and digital storytelling—not just participate. Authenticity Over Aesthetics: The most effective posts tell human stories, not just share information. People want to see faces, not flyers. Consistency Builds Trust: Posting regularly (at least three times a week) signals life and vibrancy within your parish or organization. Faith and AI Can Coexist: Tools like ChatGPT can enhance creativity, save time, and aid discernment—if used responsibly. Healthy Hustle: Rest, boundaries, and sabbath rhythms aren’t optional extras; they’re essential for sustainable leadership. Team Care: Leadership means modeling rest—Katie enforces tech breaks, creative Fridays, and digital sabbaths for her staff. For more on this episode visit https://thechurchpodcast.org

In this energizing and deeply personal episode, Christopher Wesley sits down with Chase Crouse, founder of Hypurofit and author of The God of Endurance. As a Catholic athlete, husband, father, and coach, Chase has spent years integrating physical fitness and spiritual formation, helping others see how the discipline of the body can become a path to holiness. Chase shares how his own journey through endurance sports—marathons, triathlons, and CrossFit—led him to recognize that faith is not a sprint but a lifelong race. He unpacks how prayer, fasting, and training all reveal the same truth: transformation happens through consistent, sometimes painful perseverance. Together, he and Christopher explore how ministry leaders and everyday disciples can build endurance in both faith and life. Key Takeaways Faith and Fitness Intersect: The body is not an obstacle to holiness but an instrument for worship and witness. Endurance Over Achievement: Lasting change—in fitness, ministry, or faith—comes through daily consistency, not instant results. Spiritual Discipline as Training: Chase shares how the structure of physical training mirrors the spiritual life—routine, sacrifice, and rest. Overcoming Burnout: Endurance requires recovery; Chase explains how sabbath and silence are essential to sustainable ministry. Building a Rule of Life: Fitness, prayer, community, and purpose must be intentionally balanced for long-term growth. Integration, Not Segregation: God cares about every part of who we are—body, mind, and soul—and wants them aligned in love. For more on this episode visit us at https://thechurchpodcast.org

Episode 037 – The Freedom to Live Fully: Addiction, Healing, and Authentic Masculinity with Nick Redd In this raw and hope-filled conversation, Christopher Wesley sits down with Nick Redd, co-founder of The Freedom Group, a Catholic coaching community helping men break free from addiction and rediscover their God-given identity. After fifteen years in ministry with NET Ministries and St. Paul’s Outreach, Nick felt called to walk more intentionally with men battling pornography, alcohol, and the deeper wounds that fuel them. Nick shares his own story of transformation—from six days in religious life to years of struggle with addiction and finally into lasting freedom rooted in Christ. He unpacks the neuroscience behind craving, why comfort can be one of the Church’s greatest enemies, and how redemptive suffering leads to healing. Together, Christopher and Nick explore what true freedom means, why it’s not just about behavior change, and how men can reclaim their mission as husbands, fathers, and leaders. Key Takeaways Freedom Defined: True freedom isn’t doing what you want—it’s the capacity to choose the good, even amid suffering and temptation. Pain as a Path: Nick explains how discomfort can become a teacher, guiding men toward deeper healing and maturity. Craving vs. Temptation: The Freedom Group distinguishes between mental temptation and the full-body experience of craving, offering practical tools for each. Reframing Discomfort: Through neuroscience and prayer, men learn to “ride the wave” of discomfort instead of fighting or numbing it. Whole-Person Healing: Freedom involves body, mind, and spirit—breath work, fasting, exercise, and spiritual practices all play a role. Beyond Sobriety: The Freedom Group’s mission isn’t just to end addiction but to form men who live with purpose, responsibility, and joy. Partnering with the Church: Priests and spiritual directors are key collaborators, helping to accompany men in confession and healing rather than shame. For more on this episode visit thechurchpodcast.org

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Christopher Wesley sits down with Gabriella Escalante, Pastoral Juvenil Coordinator at the Southeast Pastoral Institute (SEPI). Originally from Venezuela, Gabi shares her journey from hesitant young adult newcomer in Miami to a leader serving across 30 dioceses in the southeastern United States. Gabi reflects on how her father’s search for community drew her into young adult ministry, how a child’s simple words about speaking Spanish in a “safe place” changed her vocational path, and how SEPI is forming leaders and building bridges for the next generation of Hispanic Catholics. Together, they explore what it means to accompany young people facing cultural tension, mental health struggles, and questions of belonging—while also celebrating the gifts and leadership they bring to the Church. For more visit https://thechurchpodcast.org

In this timely and thought-provoking episode, Christopher Wesley sits down with sociologist and author Josh Packard, co-founder of Future Faith, and campus minister Cari Foster, Director of Mission and Formation at Lake Catholic High School. Together, they explore how sacred listening, accompaniment, and presence are transforming the way we engage with Gen Z and Gen Alpha in faith formation. Drawing from Josh’s upcoming book Faithful Futures and Cari’s on-the-ground ministry experience, the conversation unpacks why belonging comes before believing, how trust is shifting from institutions to individuals, and why listening is one of the most powerful tools ministry leaders can practice today. Whether you’re a parish leader, campus minister, or parent, this dialogue offers practical tools and fresh hope for walking with young people in an age of distrust, digital disruption, and deep longing for connection. For more visit https://thechurchpodcast.org

In this engaging episode, Christopher Wesley reconnects with longtime friend Greg Carpinello, Executive Director of Jesuit Volunteer Corps Northwest (JVC Northwest). From his roots in Cincinnati to years of campus ministry at Xavier and Boston College, Greg shares the journey that led him to guide nearly 100 young adults each year in faith-driven service across the Northwest. Greg unpacks the four core values of JVC Northwest—spirituality and reflection, simple living, intentional community, and social and ecological justice—and why they remain essential for a meaningful life of faith. Together, they explore how service deepens one’s relationship with Christ, the importance of discernment in choosing missionary work, and what it really means to accompany rather than “fix” marginalized communities. This conversation offers both inspiration and practical insight for anyone discerning a path of service, leadership, or authentic accompaniment in the Church today. For more visit thechurchpodcast.org

In this engaging and hope-filled episode, Christopher Wesley sits down with Evan Psencik, principal of St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School in Austin, Texas. With a background spanning parish ministry, diocesan leadership, classroom teaching, and now school administration, Evan shares his journey of discerning God’s call from engineering to theology, youth ministry, and ultimately Catholic education. Evan discusses what it means to bring relational ministry into the role of principal, the challenges and opportunities of Catholic schools today, and how his school emphasizes “forming servant leaders in the image of Christ.” He reflects on the hunger he sees in young people for authenticity, goodness, and witness, and how Catholic identity must remain at the forefront while pursuing academic excellence. Evan also opens up about the importance of walking with faculty and staff, building relationships before programs, and creating a culture where students see themselves as disciples and leaders both in the Church and in the world. For more go to thechurchpodcast.org

In this lively and wisdom-filled episode, Christopher Wesley sits down with Ela Milewska, Director of Franciscan Media. With more than 30 years of experience spanning parish, diocesan, national, and now digital ministry, Ela shares her journey from a small-town Catholic upbringing to shaping how the Church engages people online today. Ela opens up about her path into ministry, the mentors and experiences that formed her, and what she’s learning about digital accompaniment in reaching the “middle of the pew” Catholic—those who show up but often feel unseen. She unpacks how Franciscan spirituality, the theology of Duns Scotus, and her own hard-earned wisdom guide her work in helping people discover they are truly “enough” and deeply loved by God. This conversation is full of practical insights and hopeful vision: from embracing intentionality and professionalism in ministry, to avoiding burnout by remembering ministry is personal—but not to be taken personally. Key Takeaways A Reluctant but Faithful Call: Despite attempts to pursue other careers, Ela continually found herself drawn back to ministry, discovering God’s call woven into her life. Formation and Language Matter: Graduate and doctoral studies gave Ela not just knowledge but the language and confidence to engage ministry with depth. Intentional Accompaniment: What once came naturally in parish life must now be taught and modeled—welcoming, listening, and walking with others with purpose. Digital Accompaniment: Franciscan Media is creating journeys that meet people where they are and connect them to real-life communities. The “Middle of the Pew” Catholic: Many feel unseen, juggling family, work, and faith. They are often most ready for accompaniment if the Church listens with compassion. Professionalism as a Calling: Being prepared, accountable, and intentional honors God and those we serve. For more on Ela visit us at https://thechurchpodcast.org

In this solo mini-episode of The Church Podcast, Christopher Wesley reflects on three powerful questions that every ministry leader should wrestle with at some point in their journey. These aren't just practical or strategy-based—they’re personal, spiritual, and essential for long-term sustainability in ministry. Sharing from his own experience with burnout, transition, and rediscovering identity, Chris invites listeners to pause and consider what really drives their work—and their worth. If you’ve ever felt lost in your role, struggled to hand over leadership, or wondered how to keep growing in your own faith, this episode is for you.

Join me, Christopher Wesley, on The Church Podcast for a profound conversation in Episode 030: Radical Solidarity: Listening, Healing, and Hope with Meghan Fiebelkorn. This episode dives into the crucial topic of supporting survivors of sexual abuse by Catholic leaders. Meghan, from Awake Community, shares her journey from parish ministry to advocating for survivors, emphasizing the importance of radical solidarity and preferential option for the vulnerable. We explore the ongoing issues within the Church, the need for credible witness, and how to be present for those who have been harmed. Listen as we discuss the power of empathy, listening, and standing with the marginalized, offering hope and healing through authentic Gospel living. This is a conversation that challenges us to confront difficult truths while remaining committed to transformation and love.

Episode 029 – Reboot: Combating The Issue Of Staff Turnover In this special Reboot edition, we revisit one of the most relevant and enduring challenges in ministry: staff turnover. Originally recorded as part of The Church Podcast with co-host John Rinaldo, this episode (#115)—first aired at the start of 2020—dives into the systemic and personal reasons why turnover remains one of the most pressing issues in the Church today. Chris and John explore the deeper implications of high turnover rates, especially among younger ministry leaders, and ask tough questions about how parishes and dioceses can better support, invest in, and retain good people. Drawing from years of ministry experience, they break down the key causes of turnover—low pay, burnout, lack of clarity or purpose, toxic team culture, and inadequate leadership support. They also offer tangible, pastoral strategies to combat the cycle of constant transition, such as: Clarifying expectations and vision Promoting a team-based (not siloed) staff culture Prioritizing professional development Modeling sustainable work habits Encouraging ownership of the issue across the entire parish community Whether you're a pastor, diocesan leader, or lay minister, this rebooted episode is a timely and challenging reminder: solving the turnover crisis requires all of us. For more show notes visit us at thechurchpodcast.org

In this engaging and heartfelt episode, Christopher Wesley sits down with longtime Catholic speaker and ministry leader Mike Patin for a conversation that blends wisdom, humor, and real talk about what it means to endure in ministry. From crawfish boils in Louisiana to car rides that double as prayer time, Mike shares how decades in the Church have shaped his approach to leadership, storytelling, and spiritual health. The two explore how to stay grounded in the long haul of ministry, what authentic accountability looks like, and how the shift from "being engaging" to "engaging others" has transformed Mike’s work. Whether you're a new youth minister or a seasoned pastoral leader, this conversation offers a roadmap for spiritual sustainability and community-rooted leadership. For more visit our show notes at thechurchpodcast.org

In this episode, Christopher Wesley sits down with Jason Kidd and Rick Grinstead from Alpha USA for an honest and energizing conversation about what real evangelization looks like today. Drawing on their decades of experience in parish and diocesan ministry, Jason and Rick share how Alpha has transformed their understanding of outreach—not as a program to push, but a culture to cultivate. Together, they unpack how radical (and even “unreasonable”) hospitality can lower barriers to faith, why evangelization starts with listening without judgment, and how creating space for real questions leads to real transformation. They share practical steps parishes can take to begin building a culture that welcomes the unchurched and equips leaders to accompany others. Plus, hear how a tattooed party host became the perfect Alpha emcee—and why you should probably leave the theologians off the mic. If you're a ministry leader wondering how to shift your culture from programmatic to personal, or you’ve ever asked “What’s next after Alpha?”—this conversation is for you.

Join me, Christopher Wesley, on The Church Podcast for Episode 026, where I sit down with Chris Bartlett, president of Ablaze Ministries. In this engaging conversation, we explore the concepts of radical hospitality and shadow optimism within the church. Chris shares his insights on why apathy poses a greater threat to the church than heresy and emphasizes the importance of active evangelization. We discuss how radical hospitality involves creating welcoming spaces, even if it means being uncomfortable, to foster deeper connections and engagement in the liturgy. Whether you're a ministry leader or a faithful listener, this episode offers valuable perspectives on how we can all contribute to a more vibrant church community. Tune in to learn how we can do church better together.

In this episode of The Church Podcast, titled "Your Podcast Episode Title Here," I sit down with my friend Nick Stein, the international director for Bon Secours Young Adults. We dive into his journey with the Sisters of Bon Secours and explore the global impact of Pope Francis's papacy. Nick shares insights from his international experiences, highlighting the diverse ways the church operates around the world. We also reflect on Pope Francis's legacy, particularly the significance of the document Christus Vivit, which emphasizes the importance of young people's voices in the church. Join us as we discuss the challenges and opportunities in youth ministry and how we can continue to build bridges between generations. Don't forget to visit thechurchpodcast.org to catch up on past episodes and share your thoughts.

SUMMARY In this engaging episode, Christopher Wesley sits down with Ray Chang, Executive Director of the TENx10 Initiative, to talk about the future of the Church and the bold goal of reaching 10 million young people over the next 10 years. Ray shares how his global upbringing, ministry background, and work in higher education led him to champion a collaborative movement for youth discipleship. Together, they explore the urgent challenges churches face—burnout, programming fatigue, lack of diversity—and how embracing contextual, relational, and collaborative ministry can reinvigorate the Church. Ray emphasizes that sustainable change requires discernment, shared leadership, and a willingness to reimagine our models without discarding what’s sacred. Listeners will hear reflections on the Future Focus Church framework, ministry “machines,” church hierarchy, spiritual nourishment for Gen Z, and why real transformation happens not through content alone, but through authentic community. Takeaways TENx10 is a collaborative effort to help 10 million young people make faith matter in the next decade. Ray's passion for youth ministry grew out of seeing faith drift in college students and the need to go younger. The Future Focus Church framework focuses on young people, kingdom diversity, and loving our neighbors. Churches often operate like machines, leading to unnecessary burnout and unsustainable programming. Ministry leaders need time and space to reflect and reassess what’s truly essential. Change must be approached slowly, thoughtfully, and in community—especially for new leaders. Hierarchy isn’t inherently bad—it can provide safety, accountability, and theological grounding when done well. Collaboration across differences invites deeper discernment and innovation in ministry. Trends fade. Transformation is relational, contextual, and Spirit-led. Young people long for a Church that is a reliable source of spiritual nourishment in both dry and abundant seasons.

In Episode 023 of The Church Podcast, I sit down with my friend Noah Gilchrist from Damascus Ministries to explore the transformative power of evangelization through personal encounters. Noah shares his compelling journey from a cradle Catholic upbringing to a life-changing retreat experience that ignited his passion for ministry. We dive into the challenges he faced, including the loss of his father, and how these experiences fueled his mission to bring hope and faith to others. Join us as we discuss the culture of bold evangelization at Damascus, where daily encounters with Christ inspire a new generation of missionaries. Don't miss this inspiring conversation that highlights the power of faith in overcoming life's trials.

In Episode 022 of The Church Podcast, I sit down with Laura Roland, a certified Catholic motivation coach, to explore the roots of burnout in ministry and how to reframe our motivations. Laura shares her journey from Catholic educator to motivation strategist, emphasizing the importance of understanding our unique design and calling. We discuss the Motivation Code Assessment, a tool that helps individuals and teams discover what truly drives them, fostering a more fulfilling and peaceful life. Laura explains how living by design means embracing how God has uniquely wired us, leading to greater joy and less burnout. Tune in to learn how to align your work with your personal vocation and live more authentically in your ministry. Don't forget to visit thechurchpodcast.org for more insights and subscribe for future episodes.