Best Athletic Discipleship Podcasts (2025)

1
Let Go & Let God: Football, Identity & Discipleship 34:53

Play Pause

22h ago34:53

34:53

Send us a text In this episode of The Locker Room, Justin sits down with Emi Pastorino, former football player turned FCA area rep, to unpack what happens when sports, success, and performance become your identity—and how Jesus reshapes it all. Emi shares how an FCA huddle in high school transformed his walk with God, the role discipleship played i…

1
Sports, Athletics & Faith (Part 3) w/ Fr. Burke Masters and Trevor Williams 1:08:06

7d ago1:08:06

1:08:06

This week, Jake and Bob conclude their series on athletics by welcoming Fr. Burke Masters, the baseball priest, and Trevor Williams, the Washington Nationals pitcher, to the show! Together they discuss finding your identity in Christ when your job is about performing well, evangelizing as a professional athlete, and how sports can aid you in becomi…

1
From Panic to Peace: College Soccer, Anxiety, and a 30-Second Encounter with God 38:23

8d ago38:23

38:23

Send us a text What happens when the dream you’ve poured your whole life into suddenly leaves you empty? What do you do when anxiety and panic attacks strip away your freedom, your friendships, and even your will to keep going? And how can one quiet moment—on a dark Fourth of July night—shift everything? In this episode, Justin sits down with Kyle …

1
Back to Our First Love: Revelation 2: 1–5 16:47

8d ago16:47

16:47

In Revelation 2:1–5, Jesus praises the church at Ephesus for their works and endurance — yet calls them out for leaving their first love. In this episode, we unpack His urgent message and explore three timeless truths: Repent! the time is now, Faith over works, and Reignite your first love. This isn’t a condemnation; it’s an invitation to return to…

1
He Cannot Deny Himself 12:17

10d ago12:17

12:17

By Kyle Hillman

1
Bonus Episode| It's Time to Wake Up...Spiritually | 10:15

13d ago10:15

10:15

In this episode, Chelsea Johnson Muir explores the Parable of the Ten Virgins from Matthew 25, emphasizing the importance of spiritual readiness and personal faith in preparation for Christ's return. She discusses the significance of having a personal relationship with God, staying spiritually awake, and not relying on borrowed faith. The conversat…

1
Excellence vs. Perfection: Why the Difference Matters 30:30

16d ago30:30

30:30

Send us a text In sports and in life, the pursuit of perfection can be a trap—but the pursuit of excellence can be transformational. In this episode, Vincenzo unpacks the crucial difference between striving for excellence and chasing perfection, and why one brings freedom while the other brings frustration. Drawing from faith, athletics, and person…

1
“Talitha Cumi” 4:25

19d ago4:25

4:25

Sometimes life will have you feeling like you’re down for the count. Feeling like hope is gone and strength is empty. But just like Jesus spoke to that little girl in Mark 5:41 and said, “Talitha cumi,” “Little girl, get up!” He’s still speaking that same word over us today. This episode is just a quick reminder that no matter how heavy the season …

1
Sports, Athletics & Faith (Part 2) w/ Bart Schuchts 1:08:14

21d ago1:08:14

1:08:14

This week, Jake and Bob continue their series on athletics, and welcome Bart Schuchts, a former D1 football player, to the podcast. Bart reflects on how athletics shaped his self-identity, beliefs, and relationships from childhood through his adult life. They also discuss sports culture, fear based coaching, and the fine line between healthy compet…

1
The Creator’s Game: Frank Kelly’s Journey of Faith and Sport 57:00

23d ago57:00

57:00

Send us a text In this episode of The FCA Locker Room, we sit down with Frank Kelly, CEO of Kelly & Associates Insurance Group, longtime FCA leader, and pioneer in FCA Lacrosse. Frank shares his powerful story of faith, family, and sport—from playing lacrosse at Cornell to helping launch and grow FCA Lacrosse into what it is today. We’ll dive into …

1
Building Faith Through 'We'll See' Moments: Chelsea Johnson Muir | The Servant Leader 45:46

23d ago45:46

45:46

In this inspiring talk, Chelsea Johnson Muir shares her reflections on motherhood, faith, and the wisdom passed down through generations. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's purpose and the profound impact of maternal guidance. Through biblical stories and personal anecdotes, she illustrates how 'we'll see' moments in life build a fo…

1
Faith and Sports: A Journey of Empowerment from Hall of Famer, Sheryl Swoopes 1:02:10

1M ago1:02:10

1:02:10

Pre-recorded episode where Coach Chelsea meets her idol! In this conversation, Chelsea Johnson Muir and Hall of Famer Sheryl Swoopes discuss the intersection of faith, sports, and leadership. Sheryl shares her journey as a basketball player and coach, emphasizing the importance of using sports as a platform for empowerment and community support. Th…

1
Christ's Resurrection and the Christian's Endurance 38:34

1M ago38:34

38:34

By Kyle Hillman

1
Sports, Athletics & Faith (Part 1) w/ Dr. Nicole Gabana Chiesa 1:13:28

1M ago1:13:28

1:13:28

This week, Jake and Bob begin a series on athletics, diving into the profound ways sports intersect with faith. Today, they are joined by Dr. Nicole Gabana Chiesa, a sports psychologist and former collegiate athlete. Together they explore the beauty of sports and how they can shape one’s identity, foster virtue, and offer opportunities for healing …

1
Soldier, Athlete, Farmer ... Christian 40:20

1M ago40:20

40:20

By David A. Brown

1
Bonus Episode- Finding Strength in Struggles: Lessons from Ruth 13:14

1M ago13:14

13:14

In this episode, Chelsea Johnson Muir reflects on the story of Ruth and Naomi, exploring themes of loyalty, identity, and God's purpose in our struggles. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing our worth and maintaining faith even in difficult times, encouraging listeners to focus on the positive aspects of their lives and to see their challen…

1
5th Anniversary Throwback Episode: Jarvis Mitchell| The Heart of Coaching: Love and Integrity 45:29

1M ago45:29

45:29

In this conversation, the speaker shares insights on the importance of love, integrity, and compassion in coaching, particularly in grassroots basketball. They discuss their journey, the challenges faced in the competitive landscape, and the need for transparency and honesty in coaching. The speaker emphasizes the balance between passion and obsess…

1
Unentangled Soldiers 39:23

2M ago39:23

39:23

By Kyle Hillman

1
Facing the Enemy: A Servant Leader's Guide To Continued Protection 12:44

2M ago12:44

12:44

In this bonus episode of The Servant Leader Coaches Bible Study, Chelsea Johnson Muir discusses the reality of the enemy's attacks in our lives and emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's divine protection. She shares personal anecdotes and biblical references to illustrate how we can remain steadfast in faith, stay close to God, and utilize…

1
Integrating Faith & Therapy (Part 3) w/ Beth Stoll 53:08

2M ago53:08

53:08

This week, Jake and Bob conclude their series on integrating faith with psychology. They welcome Beth Stoll, a therapist from St. Louis, to talk about how an encounter with God’s love at a Healing the Whole Person retreat transformed her practice. She not only shares how suffering creates a greater capacity for empathy but also why therapists who h…

1
The Healing Power of Storytelling| BJ Communicates| Author, Pastor, Speaker 1:00:50

2M ago1:00:50

1:00:50

In this episode, Coach Chelsea Johnson Muir engages in a profound conversation with Dr. Brad Johnson, also known as BJ Communicates, about the importance of storytelling, healing, and hard conversations in the context of servant leadership. They explore BJ's journey of faith, the challenges of urban ministry, and the significance of addressing trau…

1
Walking On, Holding On: Faith, Identity, and the Journey Beyond the Game 24:38

2M ago24:38

24:38

Send us a text In this episode of The Locker Room, Justin Hamm sits down with Jonathan Noel — a former Boston College basketball walk-on — to talk faith, perseverance, and finding identity beyond playing time. Jonathan shares how his parents' radical transformation introduced him to Jesus, how his faith kept him grounded through constant change, an…

1
Endure Hardness 34:12

2M ago34:12

34:12

By David A. Brown

1
Integrating Faith & Therapy (Part 2) w/ Christopher Lafitte 1:09:32

2M ago1:09:32

1:09:32

This week, Jake and Bob continue their series on integrating faith with psychology and welcome Christopher Lafitte, a Catholic counselor based in Texas. Christopher shares his story of formation, from aspiring engineer to therapist, and about the deep encounter with Christ that shaped his journey. They discuss Christopher’s unique approach to couns…

1
Lead Where You Are: The Impact of a Huddle 34:04

2M ago34:04

34:04

Send us a text What if the greatest ministry opportunity in your school or team wasn’t a platform—it was a circle? In this episode of The FCA Locker Room, we explore the power of FCA Huddles—what they are, how they work, and how anyone can start one. Whether you're a coach, athlete, or parent, you'll learn how to lead right where you are, with the …

1
Wise Voices, Wise Choices: Rehoboam's Leadership Journey 17:44

2M ago17:44

17:44

2 Chronicles Chapter 10 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Chronicles%2010&version=NIV Takeaways If God gave you the position, He can provide the provisions. The greatest leaders walk in purpose, not power. Not all advice is good advice; seek wise counsel. Pride often leads to downfall in leadership. True leadership is rooted in serva…

1
Multiplication, Discipleship, and Church 37:43

2M ago37:43

37:43

By Kyle Hillman

1
The Power of a Testimony 21:06

2M ago21:06

21:06

Send us a text In this episode, Justin sits down with ARTEM MAKARENKO to hear his powerful journey of perseverance, identity, and faith. As a top-level soccer player in Ukraine, Artem faced repeated rejection that left him questioning his purpose and future. But everything changed when Jesus stepped into his story—through both personal revelation a…

1
Servant Leader Time-Out: The Importance to Staying Connected to the Power Source 3:01

2M ago3:01

3:01

By Chelsea Johnson Muir

1
Strong in Grace 31:50

2M ago31:50

31:50

By David A. Brown

1
Integrating Faith & Therapy (Part 1) w/ Bernhard Streisselberger 1:05:51

3M ago1:05:51

1:05:51

This week, Jake and Bob begin a new series where they welcome therapists from around the world to discuss the integration of faith in psychology, real life lessons learned, and the various methodologies they practice. Today, they are joined by Bernhard Streiselberger, a Professional Counselor from Austria, who specializes in Gestalt therapy and EMD…

1
When God Says Go 30:42

3M ago30:42

30:42

Send us a text In this episode of The FCA Locker Room, we sit down with Michael Toro, FCA’s newest staff member serving in Westchester County. Mike shares his personal journey of discerning God’s calling—from working in the professional world to stepping into full-time ministry with FCA. We explore what it means to find purpose in your current seas…

1
Spiritual Leadership in Coaching| The 5th Anniversary Throwback Episode with Willie Simmons| Head Football Coach | FIU 30:29

3M ago30:29

30:29

THE FIRST EVER CONVERSATION, and Bible Study with Coach Willie Simmons. In this conversation, Coach Chelsea discusses the multifaceted roles that coaches play in the lives of their student-athletes, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, counseling, and spiritual guidance. She emphasizes the importance of coaches modeling the behaviors and value…

1
Are You Responding or Reacting? 29:12

3M ago29:12

29:12

Send us a text In this episode, Justin Hamm explores the power of choice in our everyday lives — from decisions about our faith to our struggles in life. He challenges listeners to reflect on whether they’re actively making intentional choices or simply letting life happen to them. Are you thoughtfully responding to life’s challenges, or are you ju…

1
Transforming Pain into Purpose| Valerie Walsh| Award-winning author of Shattered to the Core & COREAGEOUS 46:09

3M ago46:09

46:09

Connect with Valerie Walsh and purchase her two books here: https://valeriejwalsh.com/.By Valerie Walsh, Chelsea Johnson Muir

1
Healing, Discipleship and the Heart w/ John Eldredge 54:56

3M ago54:56

54:56

This week, Jake and Bob are joined by John Eldredge, president of Wild at Heart, to discuss what authentic discipleship looks like in a distracted digital age. They explore the subtle ways constant connectivity and information overload can erode our spiritual focus, hinder intimacy with God, and ultimately fragment our souls. John also shares stori…

1
Step Into The Huddle: Join The Mission 33:44

3M ago33:44

33:44

Send us a text The need is urgent, and the mission is clear. In this episode, we explore why now is the time to step into ministry with FCA. You'll hear my personal story of being called to this work, what it’s been like on staff, and why we so urgently need more people to join the mission. Whether you feel called to full-time ministry or want to s…

1
Common Questions While Witnessing 2 39:09

3M ago39:09

39:09

By Kyle Hillman

1
Child Evangelism 34:56

3M ago34:56

34:56

By David A. Brown

1
Forgiveness and Spiritual Renewal w/ Fr. John Horn 1:16:46

4M ago1:16:46

1:16:46

This week, Jake and Bob are joined by Fr. John Horn, co-founder of the Institute for Priestly Formation (IPF). Fr. Horn shares details behind how IPF was founded, the significance of St. Ignatius' spiritual exercises in priestly formation, and the beauty of how formation has evolved within the Church. They also discuss the Sacrament of Reconciliati…

1
The Harvest Is Plentiful 41:20

4M ago41:20

41:20

Send us a text What does it look like to be called into ministry—and how do you know if it’s for you? In this episode, we’re joined by Steve Heintz, FCA’s Northeast Regional Director of Talent Advancement, for an inside look at how FCA is building a team to reach every coach and athlete with the Gospel. We dive into what makes someone a great fit f…

1
Common Questions While Witnessing 1 39:19

4M ago39:19

39:19

By Kyle Hillman

1
The Coaching Compass 35:59

4M ago35:59

35:59

Send us a text What happens when a coach becomes more than just a coach? After growing up without a father, Justin reflects on the powerful impact his coaches had on shaping his identity—not just as an athlete, but as a person. Now a coach himself, he explores what it means to guide others beyond the scoreboard, focusing on the whole person: body, …

1
Krystle Evans| Recruiting Coordinator & Assistant Women's Basketball Coach | University of West Georgia 59:40

4M ago59:40

59:40

In this episode of the Servant Leader Coaches Bible Study, host Coach Chelsea reflects on five years of the podcast, celebrating the servant leadership journey. Joined by Crystal Evans, they discuss their journeys to faith, the impact of injuries on their growth, and the essence of servant leadership. They explore the importance of sisterhood, repr…

1
Healing from Abuse within the Church w/ Teresa Pitt Green 57:31

4M ago57:31

57:31

This week, Jake and Bob are joined by Teresa Pitt Green, co-founder of Spirit Fire, a ministry dedicated to “facilitating healing dialogue among those wounded by abuse in the Roman Catholic Church.” Teresa shares her own story of healing from abuse, the challenges she experienced, and what she learned along the way. She also shares practical advice…

1
From the Locker Room to the Community: The Mission in Motion 38:56

4M ago38:56

38:56

Send us a text In this episode, host Vincenzo Pepe shares the heart and vision behind FCA. From personal stories to powerful ministry moments, this episode paints a picture of what God is doing through FCA—and how you can be a part of it. Whether you’re new to the ministry or already involved, this is a fresh reminder of why FCA exists and where it…

1
Practical Considerations in Witnessing 38:01

4M ago38:01

38:01

By Kyle Hillman

1
Spiritual Leadership in Sports: Coaching Through Faith 33:14

4M ago33:14

33:14

Send us a text Have you ever found yourself as a coach wondering, “Is there more to this than just wins and losses? “If you’re a coach with a strong faith but aren’t sure how to let it guide you in your role, this episode of The Locker Room with Gregg Johns is for you.We’ll explore what it means to coach with genuine authenticity — where your faith…

1
Servant Leader One-On-One: Proverbs 17:17 12:15

4M ago12:15

12:15

In this conversation, Chelsea Johnson explores the dynamics of friendships, particularly in the context of adversity and personal growth. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the different roles friends play in our lives, the significance of Jesus as a steadfast friend, and the necessity of relying on God during challenging times. Through…

1
Witnessing Basics 36:30

4M ago36:30

36:30

By David A. Brown