Heroes of Faith

Join Pete and Shad as they chat with Mike Baldwin about growing where you are planted. The opportunities God presents us with daily might not manifest in the way that we envision them, as Mike found out through his years of service. Detective Mike Baldwin was on a path that he thought was righteous. But when God called him to set aside his own ambition to work the streets of Phoenix, AZ as a Patrol Officer, Sergeant, SWAT Operator, DEA Task Force Officer, and Lead Detective, he responded in obedience and the impact was enormous. Mike currently manages operations at Grossman on Truth where he has put to use his MBA in Strategic Innovation and his experience as a Christ follower in service to the King. Mike strives to be a devoted husband, father, and Christian man who seeks to honor God in what he does. (Proverbs 22:1 “A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches”). He has been a featured guest on podcasts and has been asked to speak to groups about resiliency and scars sustained from a career in law enforcement. Regarding Mike’s value to the team, Lt. Col Dave Grossman stated, “Mike has demonstrated himself to be an ingenious, innovative, dynamic, virtuous, and highly effective asset to our business”.

Join Pete and Shad as they chat with Sam Guthrie about listening to God and responding in obedience when He calls...and in this case Sam literally got a call! Sam's faith journey has not always been easy and is likely familiar to many. Growing up a Christian, but still having to go through the process of discovering his identity in Christ was often a rocky road. Fortunately for those in his men’s ministry, he stayed the course. Sam currently leads a men’s ministry on his farm and through Word of Life Fellowship in the beautiful Sierra Nevada foothills. He is a hero of faith.

Join Pete and Shad as they talk with Gary Grace from Hope Center Ministries about his journey through hardship and addiction, to the discovery of his calling as a faith leader to those who seem hopeless. Gary’s path to Christ is truly miraculous, and the perfect example of how only God can take a broken life and bring positive change to numerous people through obedience to His call. Hope Center Ministries exists to lead addicts and their families to become fully devoted followers of Christ, who is truly the only hope that those in bondage have. More About Hope Center Ministries Volunteer at Hope Center Ministries

We are so grateful to you for your support in 2022. Without you we would not exist and the testimonies of these modern day heroes of faith would go untold. This year your support not only launched Iron Edge Ministries, but save thousands of lives during our mission in Ukraine. You did that! As we move forward into 2023, our goal is to reach more and more people with our vision of inspiring heroes of faith. We need you to share the testimonies of the heroes we highlight throughout the year. The more people we reach, the more will be inspired to carry out their own specific calling in Christ. God bless you all in 2023 Iron Edge Warriors. Pete and Shad

Join Pete and Shad as we discuss our role as men in our communities and local churches.  Chris Russo has been on staff at Seacoast for over 14 years. His greatest passion is motivating and encouraging people in their relationship with Christ. In his time at Seacoast he has served in college, young professional and marriage ministries. Chris also led Seacoast’s Columbia campus for four years and has been the West Ashley campus Pastor since July, 2017.   Chris has been married to his wife, Abbi for over 11 years and they have amazing sons named Isaac, Jonathan and Samuel. Chris also serves as an adjunct instructor for Southern Wesleyan University and South Eastern University. He loves coffee, Chick-Fil-A, playing golf and traveling as much as he can.

Join us on the Iron Edge Podcast for a great discussion with LTC Judd Douglas of the US Army. We break down some of the issues men face regarding leadership and service in the church as well as at home and in business. LTC Douglas enlisted in the U.S. Navy in July of 1996 as an Electronic Warfare Technician, later to become a U.S. Navy Diver with Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit Three out of Coronado California. His specific duties encompassed the Diving Supervisor and the primary Mammal Handler for “Ten”, an Atlantic bottlenose dolphin trained to locate underwater explosives. After his honorable discharge from the U.S. Navy, LTC Douglas pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from American Military University. In 2003 he attended Officer Candidate School where he was commissioned into the Arizona Army National Guard. In January of 2005 he became a distinguished honor graduate in his flight class and a rated Army Aviator; qualified in the AH-64D “Apache Longbow” and OH-58 A/C. Shortly thereafter he deployed as an Apache Pilot and Platoon Leader for D Company, 1-285th Attack Reconnaissance Battalion, to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. LTC Douglas transitioned to the UH-60 Blackhawk Maintenance Facility in 2009 where he became a Maintenance Test Pilot, an Instructor Pilot, and the Commander of Det 1, C Co., 5-159th Medical Evacuation Unit; eventually commanding the MEDEVAC on a combat deployment in the Helmand Province of Afghanistan. LTC Douglas is qualified in the AH-64D Apache, LUH-72A Lakota, OH-58A/C, and UH-60A/L Blackhawk; to include Maintenance Test Pilot and Instructor Pilot. Over the past 8 years LTC Douglas’ assignments have consisted of Brigade Operations Officer, Supervisor of Instructor Pilots, Army Aviation Support Facility Commander, Aide-de-Camp to the Deputy Commander of NORTHCOM, and Battalion Commander. During this time he completed a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Grand Canyon University, attended the Defense Support to Civil Authorities course at NORTHCOM/NORAD, finished his professional development studies at the Command and General Staff College, and is currently attending the Joint Combined Warfare School. LTC Douglas has lead at all levels from Platoon to Battalion; including multiple Company and Battalion Commands. His awards and badges include a Bronze Star, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Army Meritorious Service medal, Combat Action Badge, Senior Army Aviation Wings, and a U.S.Navy Second Class Dive Badge. LTC Douglas has been married to Tammie Douglas, his high-school sweetheart, for 22 years and has three children; Kaden (21), Payton (18) and Kole (14). Kaden Douglas is serving alongside his dad a Blackhawk Mechanic (15T) in the Arizona Army National Guard at the Western ARNG Aviation Training Site.

Join Pete and Shad as they talk with Cornelius Myrick from GBU (Get Back Up) about listening to the voice of God and obeying the calling to serve those in need. Cornelius and his family have been serving the homeless in Oklahoma since 2019. He knew God had a calling on his life and decided, amidst an extreme crisis in his own life, to move forward in obedience. His ministry provides food, clothing, and a path to redemption through speaking life into those that seem hopeless. GBU not only provides for those in need, but also opportunities for anyone to serve, by loving God and loving people to Him. More about GBU Facebook Page

Join Pete and Shad as we talk with Jonathan Foley about his journey in Christ and the difficult decisions, he made in his young adulthood that ultimately led him to a place of humble service in the Church. Our path is not always clearly laid out, but as Jonathan can attest, God sees the whole picture. As long as we listen and are obedient, He is faithful.    Jonathan is the executive pastor at Word of Life Fellowship church in northern California, has a master’s degree in non-profit management, and is also a board member with our ministry, Iron Edge.    He is passionate about current events, our changing culture, and how he can bring people together to spread the word of God throughout his own community.   More about Word of Life Fellowship  Watch the Podcast Here

Listen: Spotify | Amazon | Apple | Google | Stitcher | RSS  Join Pete and Shad as they discuss one of the most controversial topics in the United States currently with Dr. Tony A. Foster. The right to choose life or death for the most vulnerable among us should be a simple conversation. Unfortunately, it's not being talked about as much as it should be by those that claim to be Christ followers and leaders. Dr. Foster is a champion for the right to life as well as a counselor for those that have had to make difficult and life altering decisions. He has been preaching and teaching the gospel for over 30 years, nationally and internationally, is one of the founding Seniors Pastors of Restoration Worship Center, in Greenwood, S.C., President of Restoration Bible College, and has also authored four books, Rediscovering Jesus, Created To Win, Bold as a Lion, and The New Civil Rights Movement. He was also recently appointed by Governor Henry McMaster to the South Carolina Juvenile Parole Board; Board Member of Charter Institute at Erskine, Palmetto Family Board, and Chairman of CrossRoads Women’s Center, in Greenwood, S.C. Watch this episode here.

Lt Col Dave Grossman the founder of Grossman On Truth, a former US Army Infantry Officer and Ranger, West Point Psychology Professor, and the founder of killology. Killology is a relatively new field of scientific study focused on the psychology of having to take a life on the battlefield, which not only includes war zones abroad, but the one many of our law enforcement brothers and sisters face every day. He has written numerous books and publications on the topic like his well known books On Combat, and On Killing and is globally known as the subject matter expert on dealing with violence in a violent world.  He has testified before congress, been an expert witness in high profile cases like the Timothy McVeigh trial and has trained countless mental health, law enforcement, and military professionals globally. He has advised presidents on topics revolving around violent video games and media and is also, and most importantly, a man of God. His book On Spiritual Combat provides insight into the spiritual war raging around us all the time, and how we can equip ourselves through the word to fight this battle as warriors in Christ.

When the call came for these former Army Apache Helicopter pilots to serve in a greater capacity, in a foreign African nation, there was no hesitation. Of course, there was plenty of opposition but that did not stop these two warriors from moving forward, families in tow. Join Pete and Shad as they discuss the journey from calling through training to action with Aaron Oakes and Mark Spangler of JAARS.  To give to the organization: https://www.jaars.org/give/ To donate to Aaron or Mark directly: https://www.wycliffe.org/partner/Oakes https://www.wycliffe.org/partner/spangler Join the Iron Edge community: https://www.ironedgesharp.com Nominate a Hero of Faith: https://www.ironedgesharp.com/nominate-a-hero Support the movement: https://www.ironedgesharp.com/contribute Show your support: https://www.ironedgesharp.com/shop

We are moving forward with a clear vision of the calling God has for the Iron Edge community. After a few months of intensive prayer, vision casting, and counsel, our resolve to inspire men to serve is stronger than ever. Join Pete and Shad as they discuss the mission of Iron Edge.    Join the Iron Edge community: https://www.ironedgesharp.com/   Nominate a Hero of Faith: https://www.ironedgesharp.com/nominate-a-hero   Support the movement: https://www.ironedgesharp.com/contribute   Show your support: https://www.ironedgesharp.com/shop

When the call goes out, you have two choices...ignore or respond. For Bogdan in Ukraine the choice was easy. God first, family second, ministry third. Join Pete and Shad as they discuss what it takes to overcome all fear and go headlong into the battle. The fight continues and Iron Edge is in it. To join us in our efforts to train and equip those providing life saving support in Ukraine, go to ironedgesharp.com/donations. https://youtu.be/0QkvgQl5_2A\

John Finch is an author and filmmaker who sole focus is on healing wounds specifically inflicted by fathers. Most people have what is called a father wound that needs healing through forgiveness, prayer, and wise council.    Join Pete and Shad as they discuss with John Finch the long lasting effects of anger and bitterness caused by the father wounds many of us receive in our lifetime, and the freedom that can be found in forgiveness.    ► Subscribe to The Father Effect with John Finch! http://ow.ly/1Pk330r68pY  ► John shares the key to finding forgiveness for his father https://youtu.be/u6V33REaldg     ► John shares about his struggle with anger and alcohol https://youtu.be/YUbY00xLolk     ► Check out the latest video → http://ow.ly/pVPj30r68ss  ► The Father Effect Show Interviews  → http://ow.ly/koun30r68wr  ► The Father Effect Movie: http://ow.ly/gQmC30qpaSa    ► Website & Speaking Inquiries→ https://www.thefathereffect.com/

Tim Morton is a successful local businessman, minister, and father in California who saw an opportunity to serve and ran for office as a school board member in his hometown. Being a cancer survivor and no stranger to conflict, Tim talks about the challenges he has faced as a public servant and Christian man, especially during this time of crisis. Get ready for a no boundaries discussion that we hope encourages others to serve where they are and listen to Gods call. You are needed. Become an iron edge warrior at ironedgesharp.com

Join us as we discuss Aaron's journey to faith and how he is working to direct those hurting toward fulfilling their new mission in Christ.    In 2015 God had been calling Sgt Q to share the healing he had found on the mission field with his fellow warriors. He had ignored this calling until he had a close friend and fellow Marine go off the grid and feared that he would become part of the 22 veterans that commit suicide every day in America.    Sgt Q prayed that his Marine would not become a statistic and that Sgt Royers death need not need to be the catalyst for his ministry. 6 months later Sgt Q led his first team of veterans on Operation Restore Hope.    Sgt Royer is still with us and Sgt Q has made it his life’s mission to bring veterans to the mission field to promote healing thru a comprehensive spirit filled process. He partners with Homes of Hope a ywam ministry and Semper Fi Fund to accomplish this mission.    ” Being a Marine and being a missionary are very similar. 1. You are still working long hours for little pay. 2. You are going to dangerous places most people would never consider going. 3. Everywhere you go there is a certain part of the population that wants to cut your head off. The needed skillset is the same but the mission has changed. We are not going to kill people and destroy buildings, we are going to save souls and build infrastructure.” -Sgt Q   https://www.qmissions.org/

As we gather our thoughts to write this message, it's with a mixture of gratitude, hope, and a hint of sadness that we begin to move into another chapter of our ministry, in obedience to God's calling. Today, we come to the moment of declaring victory in this particular battle, and we want to take a moment to express our deepest appreciation for all the support you've shown us along the way. When we embarked on this mission, we never could have imagined the extraordinary community that would grow around it. Your unwavering enthusiasm, encouragement, and dedication have been the fuel that kept our mission alive. You became more than listeners; you became our friends, our brothers in arms, and our source of inspiration. Over the past few years, we've explored difficult topics, engaged in thought-provoking conversations, and shared stories that have changed our hearts. Your feedback, comments, and messages have been a constant reminder of why we started this movement in the first place: to inspire heroes of faith. Although this may be the end of our current battle, it's by no means the end of the fight. We hope you'll carry with you the valuable lessons, tactics, and inspiring stories of modern-day heroes of faith. Our journey may be taking a new direction, but the bonds we've forged are timeless. So, as we bid farewell to this chapter, we want to say a heartfelt thank you. Thank you for your unwavering support, your kindness, and your passion for the great commission. Thank you for being a vital part of our brotherhood and for making this experience one we'll forever honor. While this may be goodbye for now, it's not farewell forever. We may cross paths again in new and exciting ways. Until then, may your lives be filled with countless adventures, risky endeavors, and victory in Christ our Lord. With all our gratitude, Pete and Shad - Iron Edge Ministries Support Shad as he goes to the field!

Join Pete and Shad as they chat with Matt Poulin about the challenges of identifying and grabbing hold of the path God has laid out for you. Matt is a professional athlete who has embraced the difficult challenged God has placed in his path, choosing to be flexible and share Gods love wherever he is. According to Matt, “The most important thing to me is my faith. Through that I make it a priority to make all people I come in contact with feel valued and seen. I am a very genuine person; my heart is to serve others and to help people anyway I can. I believe reputations are very fragile and thus I only promote things that I believe bring value to others lives. Loyalty is another trait I value deeply. I always strive to give more back to the ones who invest in me rather than take. I put 100% effort into the things I commit too. I have done that throughout my life, whether that was Baseball in the PAC-12 or CrossFit Career.”

The Courage of the Jesus Did you know that Jesus exemplified courage? He not only possessed courage within himself but also instilled it in others. His actions and words inspire us to find courage in our own lives.  Jesus displayed courage in various instances. For instance, when He walked on water and healed the woman who touched His robe, He spoke words of encouragement and commanded courage. He said, "Courage! It's me" (Mark 6:50-52; Matt. 9:20-22), urging others to be brave and trust in His presence. What is even more remarkable is that Jesus gathered up His own courage, fully aware of the immense challenge He would face—death on the cross. His obedience to the cross was for our salvation. He took the first step, resolute in His decision to journey to Jerusalem (Luke 9:51). In the garden of Gethsemane, the weight of what lay ahead was so overwhelming that Jesus sweat blood in agony (Matthew 26, Mark 14, Luke 22). When those who sought to arrest Him arrived, Jesus, fully aware of the events that would unfold, fearlessly stepped forward and asked, "Who do you seek?" (John 18:4). Even after His resurrection, when Jesus found His disciples hiding in fear, He breathed courage into them, through the Holy Spirit, restoring their strength and resolve (John 20:22). The significance of courage cannot be underestimated. In Hebrews 10:35, it is emphasized that courage carries with it a great reward... “Therefore, let us not lose heart or falter in our courage, for it brings blessings and triumph in our journey of faith!” This entire study of courage culminates in Jesus, the one true example for us all. By drawing upon His strength and relying on His guidance, we can find the courage to face the unknown, overcome our fears, and fulfill our purpose. Let us look to Jesus, the ultimate embodiment of courage, and seek His presence in our lives. Why does the courage Jesus displayed inspire you? How can you respond to Jesus when he says, Courage, it is me? What will you do with the life that Jesus’ courage afforded for you?

Courage is essential for completing the race we're in. It is a recurring theme in the concept of courage that it empowers us to finish what God initiated. Once we are saved, it becomes our responsibility to share the good news with others, which displeases the enemy. The enemy will throw everything at us to make us quit. If we lack courage when facing critical decisions, we might fail to fulfill our mission. In James 1:12, it is stated that those who remain steadfast under trial are blessed. They will receive the crown of life that God promised to those who love Him. Romans 8 assures us that we are more than conquerors through God, and nothing can separate us from His love. Therefore, we have no reason to fear anything. However, it is natural to have fears. That's why we need God's Word to guide and rejuvenate our spirit. We must persevere like endurance runners, encountering fearful situations daily. The key to courage is to keep pushing forward, no matter what happens. If we stumble, we get back up. If we lose focus, we pause, regain our bearings, and continue moving forward. We don't get to rest until we reach the finish line. It may sound challenging, and it often is, but we can accomplish all things through Christ, who strengthens us. Take a moment to reflect on areas of your life where you may have given up and neglected to address fear while progressing. Identify those areas and ask God to assist you in overcoming them today.