Up and to the Right

A dynamic podcast that tackles real and relevant topics within the church. No subject is off limits when it comes to discussing ways in which the Word of God can be made applicable in our lives.

Episode 162: Singleness

In this episode of Up and to the Right, Pastor Rodney engages in a heartfelt discussion about singleness with guests Jeff Cooper and Erica Ashby. They explore the definitions of singleness, personal experiences with relationships, and the importance of focusing on faith and self during this phase of life. The conversation highlights the challenges and growth that come with being single, as well as the significance of community and support in navigating this journey.

12-16
59:22

Episode 161: A Conversation with Josh Hannah

In today's conversation, Pastor Rodney and Josh Hannah discuss the transformative journey of faith, family, and ministry. Josh shares his personal testimony of overcoming a troubled past, finding salvation, and the importance of discipleship. They delve into the establishment of Hope Center Ministries, which provides support for individuals struggling with addiction, emphasizing the critical role of the local church in recovery and community. The discussion also offers practical advice for fa...

12-09
55:42

Episode 160: A Conversation with Tiana Monsi

In this episode, Pastor Rodney and Tiana Monsi discuss the importance of prayer, worship, and navigating grief. Tiana shares her personal experiences with loss, particularly the passing of her sister, and how it deepened her faith and prayer life. They explore the significance of worship as a lifestyle, the power of intercession, and the role of God's Word in healing and deliverance. Tiana emphasizes the importance of creating a safe space for others to share their struggles and the impact of...

12-03
45:47

Episode 159: A Conversation with Thomas and Stephanie Fiordelisi

Pastor Rodney sits down with Stephanie and Thomas Fiordelisi to share how God led them from finding a home at North Church to serving behind the walls of Lexington prison. They tell powerful stories of surrendered lives, pastors being raised up through OBU’s divinity program, miraculous baptisms, and radical generosity and compassion among the men inside. This episode will challenge your idea of prison as a place of darkness and invite you to see how God is bringing light, hope, and “heaven o...

11-26
39:10

Episode 158: A Conversation with Preston Williams

In this conversation, Preston Williams shares his journey from a troubled youth, grappling with sin and worldly temptations, to a transformative spiritual awakening. He reflects on the influence of both positive and negative role models and the profound impact of his faith in Jesus.

11-18
01:02:03

Episode 157: A Conversation with Jessica Gutierrez

In this podcast episode, Pastor Rodney and Jessica Gutierrez discuss her journey from a life of addiction and homosexuality to finding freedom and healing through faith in God. Jessica shares her personal experiences, including her upbringing, struggles with sexual immorality, and the transformative moment when she embraced the truth of God's word. The conversation emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries, understanding biblical truths, and the process of healing and deliverance.

11-11
41:49

Episode 156: A Conversation with K-Trina Meador Pickard

In this episode of Up and to the Right, Pastor Rodney interviews K-Trina Meador Pickard, author of "Breaking Chains". They discuss K-Trina's journey from a challenging upbringing, through trauma and abuse, to finding faith and purpose in her life. K-Trina shares her experiences with family dynamics, marriage, and the struggles of forgiveness. The conversation highlights the importance of community, love, and the power of faith in overcoming life's challenges. K-Trina's book serves as a guide ...

11-04
46:32

Episode 155: A Conversation with Jabin Chavez

In this episode of Up and to the Right, Pastor Rodney interviews Pastor Jabin Chavez, lead pastor of City Light Church in Las Vegas. Pastor Jabin unpacks sustainable leadership rhythms and shares what ministry looks like in Vegas—where salvations come quickly but discipleship requires patience. The conversation also explores discernment in seasons of transition (pray, repent, fast, and invite trusted leadership into the process) and the biblical call to endurance—inheriting promises through “...

10-21
59:56

Episode 154: A Conversation with Misael Lucano

In this episode of Up and to the Right, Pastor Rodney interviews Misael Lucano, Pastor of North Church Somos - Latin America. Misael shares his journey from Peru to the U.S., his connection with North Church, and the impact of North School of Ministry. The conversation highlights the church's vision for expanding into Spanish-speaking countries, community outreach efforts, and the importance of prayer and support for their mission. Pastor Misael also discusses leadership challenges, the trans...

10-14
44:49

Episode 153: A Conversation with Tracy Zserdin

In this conversation, Pastor Rodney and Tracy Zserdin discuss Tracy's journey as the Executive Director of Cultivate Oklahoma City and her experiences as a mother navigating the challenges of parenting a child with mental health issues. Tracy shares her story of faith, the struggles of adoption, and the importance of finding hope and joy amidst pain. The discussion emphasizes the significance of community support, understanding, and leaning into Jesus during difficult times.

10-06
46:50

Episode 152: Unity in the Church

In this episode, Pastor Rodney and guests, Shannon Fouts, Kayla Anderson, and Clint Smith discuss the importance of unity within the church and relationships. They explore the difference between unity and uniformity, emphasizing that diversity is essential for a healthy community. The conversation highlights the role of emotional health in maintaining unity, the significance of the Great Commission, and the need for healthy conversations when navigating disagreements. The speakers encourage l...

09-30
01:06:14

Episode 151: A Conversation with Rick Walther and Clint Smith

In this episode of Up and To the Right, Pastor Rodney discusses the Build His Church project with Rick Walther and Clint Smith. They share insights into their backgrounds, the history of their collaboration, and the vision for expanding North Church. The conversation covers the importance of community involvement, financial commitments, and the commitment to excellence and transparency throughout the construction process. They also discuss the current progress of the project, the challenges f...

09-23
57:13

Episode 150: A Conversation with Jeff and Lacey Echeverry (Special Re-Release)

In this special re-release, Pastor Rodney reflects on the recent passing of Lacey Echeverry and invites us to revisit her and Jeff’s powerful story. In this episode, Jeff and Lacey share their journey of faith and resilience as they walked through Lacey’s stage four cancer diagnosis, multiple treatments and surgeries, and even a life-altering car accident. Together, they emphasized the importance of relying on God, trusting His plan, and finding joy in the midst of unimaginable trials. Their ...

09-15
01:04:09

Episode 149: A Conversation with Lillian Wilson and Camden Vasquez

In this today's podcast episode, Pastor Rodney converses with young adults Lillian Wilson and Camden Vasquez about their spiritual journeys and the significance of engaging with God's Word. They explore themes such as the fear of the Lord, seeking wisdom, the role of community in spiritual growth, and the challenges of maintaining sexual purity.

09-09
01:03:37

Episode 148: A Conversation with Terry and Melissa Rhodes

In this episode, Pastor Rodney sits down with missionaries Terry and Melissa Rhodes to trace their journey from Arkansas to the Middle East, where they lead family-focused education centers, disciple refugees, and confront human trafficking through Set Captives Free. They discuss learning language and culture, sharing the gospel wisely in a 99% Muslim context, and the cost—and joy—of obedience. Throughout the conversation, Terry and Melissa share powerful stories of perseverance, answered pra...

09-03
01:06:55

Episode 147: A Conversation with Les Thomas

In today's conversation, Pastor Rodney and Les Thomas discuss the importance of family, mentorship, and overcoming adversity. Les shares his personal journey of growth, the challenges he faced in his marriage, and how he turned his life around through faith and hope. He emphasizes the significance of community engagement and the need to support youth programs, highlighting the impact of mentorship in shaping lives.

08-26
01:01:47

Episode 146: A Conversation with Rob & Brittany Clay

In this episode, Pastor Rodney engages in a heartfelt conversation with Rob and Brittany Clay as they discuss the importance of trust, faith, and prayer in relationships, the impact of family backgrounds on their journey, and the significance of finding one's identity in Christ. The Clays share their experiences of navigating challenges, the role of community in fostering healthy marriages, and offer valuable advice for singles preparing for future relationships. Their story emphasizes the tr...

08-18
01:03:54

Episode 145: A Conversation with Angela Grunewald

In this episode, Angela Grunewald shares her journey as an educator, her family life, and her experiences of loss and healing. She emphasizes the importance of being a Christian voice in public education, balancing work and family, and the role of the local church in her life. Angela reflects on her transition to North Church and her commitment to raising the next generation. Throughout the conversation, Angela highlights the significance of faith, community, and personal devotion in navigati...

08-11
01:11:44

Episode 144: A Conversation with Elyse Mahan and Eli Garcia

Recorded live at the Remain Student Conference, this episode of Up and to the Right features Pastor Rodney interviewing special guests Elyse Mahan and Eli Garcia in front of a room full of students and leaders hungry for God. Together, they answer real questions from students about ministry, faith, calling, and courage. Both guests share personal stories of overcoming insecurity, trusting God without full clarity, and finding peace in His presence. The conversation is full of practical wisdom...

08-05
40:47

Episode 143: A Conversation with Phillip Deas

In this conversation, Pastor Rodney and Phillip Deas explore the transformative power of faith, coaching, and personal development. They discuss the importance of responding to spiritual messages, the living nature of God's Word, and the impact of Evangel Christian Academy. Phillip shares his journey from a student to a coach and leader, emphasizing the significance of mindset, skillset, and toolset in achieving personal and professional growth.

07-29
57:18

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