Exponential NEXT Podcast

Exponential NEXT Podcast Episode 125 Series: Church on the Frontier Description: Some of the Church’s most important innovation is happening in neighborhoods and congregations that rarely receive the spotlight. Dhati Lewis of MyBLVD and Doug Beutler of Seeds of Change Network discuss contextual discipleship, urban mission, and the untapped potential of smaller churches. Together, they challenge the assumption that multiplication requires a large platform or extensive resources. This conversation explores how churches can move from survival to mission, develop leaders from within their communities, and rediscover a disciple-making identity rooted in the places God has already called them to serve. Host: Tom Planck, Innovation NEXT, Director Guests: Dhati Lewis – MyBLVD, Founder and President Doug Beutler – Seeds of Change Network, Founder and CEO Category: Innovation NEXT Links shared in episode: MyBLVD Seeds of Change Network

Exponential NEXT Podcast Episode 124 Series: Urban Missions 101: Why America’s Cities Need Missionaries Too Description: In this closing episode, Dhati Lewis and Missie Branch reflect on the biggest themes from the series and explore why urban missionaries need intentional investment, coaching, community, and care to thrive for the long haul. This conversation is part of a collaboration between Exponential NEXT and MyBLVD, working together to equip and encourage leaders serving on mission in cities across the country. Host: Dhati Lewis – Urban Missions NEXT, Director Guest: Missie Branch – MyBLVD, CEO Category: Urban Missions NEXT  

Exponential NEXT Podcast Episode 123 Series: Urban Missions 101: Why America’s Cities Need Missionaries Too Description: What does contextualization actually mean, and why does it matter in urban missions? Daniel Yang brings theological and cultural insight to the conversation, helping listeners understand how cities shape Gospel ministry today. This conversation is part of a collaboration between Exponential NEXT and MyBLVD, working together to equip and encourage leaders serving on mission in cities across the country. Host: Dhati Lewis – Urban Missions NEXT, Director Guest: Daniel Yang – World Relief, National Director of Churches of Welcome Category: Urban Missions NEXT  

Exponential NEXT Podcast Episode 122 Series: Urban Missions 101: Why America’s Cities Need Missionaries Too Description: What does it take to sustain ministry in today’s cities? In this two-part conversation, Dhati Lewis is joined by James Hobson and Pete Contreras to explore the realities of urban mission beyond traditional ministry models. From entrepreneurship, nonprofits, and creative funding strategies to serving across multiple ministry contexts at once, they discuss why many urban leaders are embracing a both/and approach to ministry. These episodes offer a candid look at the challenges, opportunities, and mindset shifts required to build lasting Gospel impact in the city. This conversation is part of a collaboration between Exponential NEXT and MyBLVD, working together to equip and encourage leaders serving on mission in cities across the country. Host: Dhati Lewis – Urban Missions NEXT, Director Guests: James Hobson – Hill City Community Church (Lynchburg), Pastor Pete Contreras – New Vision Church (San Diego), Pastor Category: Urban Missions NEXT  

Exponential NEXT Podcast Episode 121 Series: Urban Missions 101: Why America’s Cities Need Missionaries Too Description: Dhati Lewis and Dale Huntington explore what it means to lead where you live, work, and worship. From neighborhood discipleship to navigating violence, addiction, and broken systems, this episode highlights the depth and complexity of hyperlocal ministry. This conversation is part of a collaboration between Exponential NEXT and MyBLVD, working together to equip and encourage leaders serving on mission in cities across the country. Host: Dhati Lewis – Urban Missions NEXT, Director Guest: Dale Huntington – City Life Church (San Diego), Pastor Category: Urban Missions NEXT