LEAD Pods are the official USMB podcast devoted to leadership development and spiritual growth for Mennonite Brethren churches. This is MBs sharing ideas with other MBs, and hopefully beyond. ‘It’s the best of us to the rest of us.’

Listen on Apple or Spotify or click the blue icon to the left of each episode.

Video versions of some podcasts are available on our YouTube channel.

EP. 116 – SOAR, Action, & Living on Mission (Multiply's Silvia Lopez & Heidi Quiring)

November 14, 2024

Supporting missionaries abroad has long been a valued part of our heritage, but how can we live ‘on mission’ right here at home? Today we’re joined by Heidi Queering and Silvia Lopez from Multiply to share the latest updates on mission programs like SOAR, Action, and Trek—each designed to help people of all ages make a difference locally and globally.

Multiply is reshaping their programs to show that missions can be an accessible, ongoing journey for everyone. In this episode, Heidi and Silvia offer practical tips to help us make mission part of everyday life. If you or someone in your church is ready to learn more, visit multiply.net to explore these opportunities!

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EP. 115 – Igniting Your Leadership Fuel (Jordan Ringhofer & Kyle Goings)

October 31, 2024

Leadership development is one of USMB's core commitments, and finding new ways to grow, stretch yourself, or gain new skills is a crucial part of leadership. In our busy world where we all feel short on time, how can we continue to grow, find new resources, and discover meaningful new ideas?

Last year USMB launched Leadership Fuel, a website devoted to sharing curated leadership resources for pastors and church leaders. On this episode, Jordan Ringhofer (Pacific District Conference district minister) and Kyle Goings (USMB Youth chair) explain how Leadership Fuel came to be and how you can contribute resources that have been helpful to you.

Beyond that, Kyle and Jordan also share how they intentionally continue their own leadership journeys, with practical ideas of how we can document and store new ideas and thoughts for future projects. This episode is SUPER practical, so if you're ready to grow in your leadership, start by listening to this episode, and then check out Leadership Fuel!

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EP. 114 – Discipleship Beyond The Checklist (Matt Thrift)

October 17, 2024

This week we chat with Pastor Matt Thrift about his new book, Follow, and the heart of discipleship. Matt shares his journey from Southern Baptist circles to finding a home in the Mennonite Brethren tradition, drawn by our mix of strong theology and practical love for others.

Matt explains that discipleship isn’t about checking boxes but developing a real, ongoing relationship with Jesus. We also discuss how churches can balance evangelism and discipleship without sacrificing one for the other. Matt reflects on personal challenges, like embracing rest and Sabbath, admitting how hard it can be to step away from busyness.

If you’ve ever struggled to keep spiritual practices like prayer and Bible reading from feeling routine, Matt offers some practical insights. He encourages us to see discipleship as a lifelong journey rather than something we can “finish.”

Learn more or buy Matt's book here. 

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EP. 113 – Breaking Barriers and Building Community in the Middle East (Janna & Cody)

October 4, 2024

Building bridges across cultural and religious divides can seem daunting, yet it's at the heart of authentic Christian ministry. In this episode, we meet Cody and Janna, two young workers preparing to serve in the Middle East through Multiply who show us how genuine relationships can transcend perceived barriers.

Through their ministry in this region so far, Janna and Cody have discovered a Middle Eastern life that differs significantly from how the Muslim world is typically portrayed in our media. Their stories reveal the incredible warmth and hospitality that is very common in this region, and a surprising openness to discuss religion and American culture.

Ministry and evangelism are difficult in these cultures, but slowly and patiently building sincere relationships is a crucial step to gain trust that leads to important conversations about faith. Learn more in this week's episode, and we invite you to consider partnering with Cody and Janna as they prepare for this exciting new ministry opportunity!

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EP. 112 – Building Relationships & Sharing Jesus with Muslims--And Everyone Else (Nasser al’Qahtani)

September 19, 2024

Many Christians in America today feel ill-equipped to share their faith with Muslims. Our media and our culture tend to paint Muslims in a certain way that often makes us feel intimidated and maybe even scared, but those biases are almost always unfounded and unfair. As we hear from today's guest, sharing about Jesus really comes down to humility, curiosity, and sincerity, regardless of our cultural backgrounds.

Today we speak with Nasser al’Qahtani, Multiply's Regional Team Leader for North Africa and the Middle East. Nasser is a former Muslim himself, and he has amazing stories of how God has done wonders in his life and opened incredible doors for him to teach around the world. Nasser is a gifted storyteller and an engaging biblical scholar, so enjoy this episode as we hear how God is at work in the Middle East and how we can appropriately share our faith with others.

Nasser's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NasseralQahtani.
Nasser's Multiply profile: https://multiply.net/global-worker/nasser-alqahtani.

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EP. 111 – What Makes A "Mennonite," and Celebrating 500 Years of Anabaptism (César García & Dr. Tim Geddert)

September 5, 2024

Next year marks a significant anniversary for our MB history and heritage, so we're preparing for a big party! The roots of our MB tradition can be traced to 1525 and the birth of the anabaptist movement beginning in Zurich. For those of us involved with USMB, it's helpful for us to remember that our heritage and our roots go way beyond our U.S. history, and this event is a meaningful chance to learn, remember, and reconnect with our Mennonite and anabaptist brothers and sisters around the world.

This week our guests are César García, the general secretary of the Mennonite World Conference, and Dr. Tim Geddert, our USMB delegate to UWC. We hear some behind-the-scenes planning for the anniversary event coming up next year, but César and Tim also share important reminders of what it means to be Mennonite, why adult baptism is such a big deal, and what we can learn from our larger Mennonite family around the world.

To learn more about the anniversary events in Zurich, visit mwc-cmm.org or anabaptism500.ch.

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EP. 110 – New Eastern District Minister (James Moore)

AUGUST 22, 2024

This week we get to know James Moore, the recently appointed eastern district minister. In addition to this important role, James is also the lead pastor of West End MB Church in Lenoir, North Carolina. James discusses the joys and challenges of serving in both roles, including his role in helping immigrant Congolese churches become more self-sustaining.

Before James became a pastor, he served a full career as a police officer in Lenoir. He still occasionally helps out with special events around town in this capacity, and his unique role as both a pastor and police officer lead to a distinct perspective on bridging the gap between the church and the community. James emphasizes the importance of prayer and the benefit of working together as we all aim to more effectively reaching the younger generations.

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EP. 109 – Living the Mission (Fred & Esther Leonard)

AUGUST 8, 2024

This week, Fred and Esther Leonard from Mountain View Church in Fresno, California, share their passion for global missions and how they've integrated it into their church's DNA over the past 31 years. The Leonards discuss their upcoming "Live the Mission" conference and their extensive experience in missions work across 37 countries. They emphasize the importance of partnering with local leaders, empowering nationals, and creating sustainable mission strategies that don't rely solely on American funding or leadership.

Fred and Esther share practical advice for churches looking to engage in missions, including starting small by adopting a missionary, sending short-term teams, and balancing local and global outreach. They stress the importance of a "theology of presence" and the power of prayer in mission work. They also share inspiring stories of how their church's involvement has transformed lives and communities around the world, highlighting the need for a long-term commitment to see lasting change. This episode offers valuable insights for church leaders looking to cultivate a missions-minded congregation and make a global impact.

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EP. 108 – Decades of Dedication and Passing the Torch (Donna Sullivan & Lori Taylor)

JULY 25, 2024

This week we speak with Donna Sullivan and Lori Taylor, two long-serving USMB staff members who are retiring and concluding their careers. Listen in to hear from these behind-the-scenes heroes.

On this LEAD Pods episode, Donna Sullivan and Lori Taylor share:

  • Some of their favorite experiences in their roles
  • Reflections on their careers in church administration and ministry
  • Their anticipation as new leaders settle into roles with USMB

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EP. 107 – History and Formation for the First Latin MB Churches (Peggy Goertzen)

JULY 11, 2024

Our resident MB historian Peggy Goertzen is back for another episode of history and storytelling, this time recounting the early days and foundation of the Latin America Mennonite Brethren (LAMB) district. Back in the 1930s, MB pioneers Peter E. Penner, Harry Neufeld, and others were trailblazers in reaching Spanish-speaking people near the Rio Grande Valley. After years of hard work and multiple challenges, these leaders eventually established several Spanish-speaking MB churches, as well as El Faro (The Lighthouse), an important Christian school for children in the region.

In this era of our history, two MB trademark priorities were once again evident: In our mission work, we have a rich history of elevating both evangelism AND discipleship. This outreach to Spanish-speaking communities was one of the first times we openly welcomed a new ethnic group to our family of churches, and that spirit of inclusion continues today.

Peggy is a fascinating storyteller, so we hope these stories from our past leave you inspired and encouraged for your next season of ministry!

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EP. 106 – Rebuilding After Disasters (MDS's Kevin King)

JUNE 20, 2024

Here's an amazing stat you may not expect: A billion dollar disaster now occurs in the U.S. every 18 days. Between tornadoes, earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, and other natural disasters, thousands of people across the country are left with significant needs after unforeseen disasters, and many have to completely rebuild their homes and their lives.

Luckily, Mennonite Disaster Service has been around for decades, and their team is equipped to do amazing acts of service to get people back on their feet and restore hope to broken communities. Kevin King has been their national director for 20 years now, and today we get to hear amazing stories of how communities have been healed and the amazing power that can come from a team of volunteers willing to serve. MDS's goal is to "make the path as level as possible from the pew to the project," and you'll hear today how you and your church can "pray, pay, and go" to share the hope of Jesus to broken communities around the country.

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EP. 105 – A New Leader for a New Season (Aaron Box)

JUNE 06, 2024

In light of the upcoming retirement of Don Morris, Aaron Box was recently announced as the new USMB national director (effective July 1). Aaron has been an MB pastor for many years and was active on the USMB Leadership Board, but many of you likely don't know Aaron yet. As he prepares to transition into this new role, we wanted to take some time for you to get to know Aaron's history and hear his heart for ministry.

Aaron has more than 20 years of ministry experience, including the past 13 years as senior pastor of North Park Community Church in Eugene, Oregon. Throughout his experience, Aaron notes he is "MB by choice" and is energized by our history and distinctives. Looking ahead, Aaron says his experience and gifting are well-suited for ongoing growth and advancement in our areas of focus: church planting, intentional discipleship, and leadership development.

We're excited about this new season in the USMB story, and we hope this conversation helps you get to know our new leader!

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EP. 104 – Stronger Together: Insights from the New Southern District Minister (Brian Harris)

MAY 23, 2024

Brian Harris is back on LEAD Pods this week discussing his new role as the southern district minister. After previously serving as the church planting mobilizer, Brian now acts as a "pastor to the pastors" by providing support, coordination, and advocacy across the southern district of MB churches.

In this interview, Brian shares insights from his first few months of meeting with church leaders, unpacking themes like the desire for collaboration between churches on initiatives in missions, leadership development, and pastor encouragement. There are notable challenges for our pastors today, but there are also exciting opportunities to unite and take advantage of our diversity so we can learn and grow together.

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EP. 103 – Passing the Baton & Looking Ahead (Don Morris)

MAY 09, 2024

Don Morris has served in MB leadership for decades, most recently as USMB national director. As he prepares for retirement, this week we look back on Don's career as he reflects on the joys and challenges facing our denomination. Much has changed in church leadership and in American culture, but our MB family of churches has also grown and expanded so much with guidance from Don's leadership.

In this episode, Don shares some encouragement for those of us leading congregations today, thoughts on how to transition out of leadership well, and what excites him most as we look forward to the future of USMB.

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EP. 102 – Compiling, Writing, and Sharing Your Generational Story (Elaine McAllister)

APR 25, 2024

You likely know the names and some details about your grandparents, but can you list all eight of your great-grandparents? Most Americans can't, and although we may not have had very close relationships to them, there is a lot of value in "generational storytelling" where we can learn from our family history and be proud of where we came from.

On this episode, we talk with author Elaine McAllister. She is an accomplished author of seven published books, and she is passionate about helping others record their family histories through writing, photos, and preserving heirlooms and documents. Today Elaine shares how (and why) we can research our ancestors, what "sentimental trash" we should hang on to, and how to pass on meaningful stories to future generations.

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EP. 101 – Why YOU Should Attend Convention This Summer (Kelsey Ensz & Daniel Rodriguez)

APR 11, 2024

As we inch closer to summertime, we're also preparing for our biennial USMB pastors' conference and national convention coming to Omaha this July. On this episode we're joined by Kelsey Ensz and Daniel Rodriguez who both serve on the planning committee for the convention. They both share stories of how past conventions have been helpful to their ministries and provide some details of why YOU should consider joining us this year.

To learn more or sign up, visit usmb.org/usmb-gathering-2024.

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EP. 100 – Looking Back & Looking Ahead! (USMB Staff)

MAR 28, 2024

We made it to 100 episodes! Wahoo! Thank you for listening over the past four years.

Today Matt talks with the entire USMB staff as we look back and reflect on our favorite episodes, go through some fun trivia, and share details about a $100 prize giveaway for the listeners. The USMB staff also shares a bit about their hearts behind the ministry, and we look ahead to what the next 100 episodes may look like for the podcast.

Thanks for listening with us, and be sure to follow us on social media.

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EP. 099 – The How, Why, and "What's Next" of USMB Church Planting (Scott Thomas)

MAR 14, 2024

This week Matt talks with Scott Thomas, the new interim USMB Church Planting Mobilizer. Scott shares his extensive experience in church planting, having been involved with literally hundreds of church plants across the U.S. during his time with Acts 29 and serving as a lead pastor for 17 years. Scott passionately discusses the importance of continually planting new churches and why it's a crucial strategy for both spreading the gospel AND revitalizing existing churches.

Scott emphasizes that every USMB church, no matter its size or resources, can get involved in church planting efforts through prayer, finances, sending out members to plant, and more. With his decades of experience and wisdom, Scott casts a vision for the USMB conference to multiply disciple-making churches.

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EP. 098 – God Is Your Provider (Brian Kluth)

FEB 29, 2024

We all work hard for our paychecks, and sometimes it can feel like our income falls short of our financial needs--maybe especially for those of us employed by a local church. That may be true, but today our guest Brian Kluth has an important reminder to share.

God, not our day job, is our primary provider. Our salary is one way God provides, but it's not the only one. There are many ways God chooses to bless those who say yes to His calling on their lives, and it's up to us to trust Him to ultimately bring provisions.

Brian is far from a prosperity gospel teacher. Instead, his years of experience as a pastor, financial expert, and missionary provide story after story of how God has surpassed each of his needs. His teaching has helpful reminders for all of us, both for practical financial day-to-day decisions, as well as a God-centered mindset that reminds us where to place our trust.

Brian will be one of the featured speakers at our convention this summer, so get to know Brian now, and sign up to join us this July in Omaha!

MB Foundation is pleased to bring Brian to USMB Gathering 2024. Brian and MB Foundation will also provide an optional lunch event for pastors and spouses July 25.

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EP. 097 – Building Generosity Through Accountability (Gary Hoag)

FEB 15, 2024

Like it or not, most ministries require a budget. And even if they don't, Jesus was clear that His followers needed to have an appropriate and God-honoring view of money. As church leaders, how can we realistically encourage and grow our generosity? What steps can we take to earn our congregation's (and our community's) trust so they can be confident their offerings are used appropriately? How can we model generosity to our churches, and just how transparent do we need to be?

This week we're joined by the self-proclaimed "Generosity Monk," Dr. Gary Hoag. Gary is one of our featured speakers at our upcoming convention in July, and he has devoted his career to increasing generosity and teaching healthy giving practices to church leaders around the world. Today he shares practical advice and insightful wisdom that we would be wise to consider in our local churches.

MB Foundation has had a long relationship with Gary and is pleased to bring him to the USMB Pastors’ Gathering!

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EP. 096 – Faithfully Different (Natasha Crain)

FEB 1, 2024

According to recent research, the number of Americans with a biblical worldview continues to decline. In our world where secular culture boosts the ideas of self-authority and subjective truth, how can believers stay anchored to Jesus and the Bible? How can we help our kids navigate this new world, and how can we guard ourselves against competing worldviews?

Natasha Crain is this week's guest, and her popular books, blogs, and podcasts are all about this topic. How can we wrestle with truth without losing our faith, and does Christianity really stand up to academic scrutiny? Natasha shares the latest stats and trends, and also encourages us to hold on to prayer and trust in God's supernatural work to lead and guide us in today's culture.

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EP. 095 – Marriage Matters (Nathan Ensz)

JAN 18, 2024

Many people would agree that our relationship with our spouse is among the most important things in life, likely second only to our relationship with Jesus. If the Church believes that, why aren't there more resources for marriage ministry in our local churches? What are some of the biggest issues facing couples today, and how can church leaders help build strong marriages that last?

Nathan Ensz is the lead pastor of Kingwood Bible Church in Salem, Oregon, and he has created a marriage retreat with sessions designed to strengthen and encourage the modern marriage relationship. In this episode, Nathan shares details about his teaching, but also has insight on how we as church leaders can talk about relationships in a way that doesn't exclude the singles in our churches.

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EP. 094 – FPU's Bridge to Ministry & Equipping Young Leaders (Quentin Kinnison & Darren Duerksen)

JAN 04, 2024

As we launch into a new year, we're continuing our theme from December of what our denomination can do to better prepare a new generation of leaders in our MB churches. This week, Dr. Quentin Kinnison and Dr. Darren Duerksen from Fresno Pacific University share details about their Bridge to Ministry Pathway that makes it easier for students to earn a master's degree in ministry.

Plus, Quentin and Darren share their desire to equip Gen Z and Millennials to lead and use their talents to serve the local church. Since they work with college students every day, they also share insight into Gen Z's motivations and goals and how church leaders may be able to utilize young leaders for a new season of ministry.

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