Podcast of Trellis Usher, entrepreneur, coach and author of The Blueprint: How to Design A Life of Authenticity and Purpose. Trellis brings you coaching insights, her perspective on recent business and social conversations. For more in-depth podcasts, tune in to Conversations with Trellis on iTunes.
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Conversations With Trellis Podcasts
The purpose of this podcast is to move leaders in Ohio to be challenged through bite-size conversations about ministry, leadership, and growth. Take a listen. Step into your God-call. Be challenged. Move together.
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Weekly conversations around a different activity around our current issue of Trellis & the Zine. This zine is made up of articles and activities that support individual healing and growth to shift the collective conscious to a state of kindness, compassion and to an abundance mindset. These activities are made by healers of every kind to create a well rounded zine. Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/trellisandthezine/support
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The Starfish and the Church podcast is a mix of interviews and storytelling where hosts Rob Wegner and Lance Ford explore a paradigm shift away from modern, hierarchical structures of leadership to a radical Jesus-centered, starfish approach. Like the podcast, check out more at thestarfishandthespirit.com
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3:27 Why Every Leader Is Cross-Cultural with Andrew Gale
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28:18Missions isn’t just overseas—it’s everywhere you serve. On this episode, R.W. Moody sits down with Andrew Gale, Executive Director of Global Strategy for Church of God Ministries, to unpack why all ministry is cross-cultural. From life-shaping missions stories to empowering leaders around the world, Andrew challenges leaders to pray bigger, learn d…
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3:26 Meet the Family Behind Planting Together Ministries
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12:34In this episode, R.W. sits down with Patricia Gomez and her son, Daniel Gomez, as they share about their church planting efforts with Planting Together Ministries. Patricia and her husband, José, are leaders in the church planting network for Church of God's Spanish-speaking congregations. Currently, they are working to disciple leaders of church p…
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3:25 Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders with Trellis Churches
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25:19Trellis Churches is a ministry organization committed to educating, empowering, and equipping the next generation of church leaders. Their holistic training pathway includes a three-year internship and a two-year residency, combining hands-on church experience with accredited university education — all designed to prepare people for full-time minis…
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3:24 Bringing Hope to Kid's Around the World
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25:13In this episode, R.W. sits down with Chase Perkins, Director of Strategic Partnerships at Kids Around the World (KATW.org), to discuss the incredible global impact of this faith-driven organization. Chase shares inspiring stories about how KATW equips communities through meal packing, playground builds, and discipleship programs that bring hope to …
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3:23 Meet Daniel & Christy Kihm, Missionaries to Europe and the Middle East
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27:51In this episode, RW sits down with Daniel & Christy Kihm, (missionaries to Europe and the Middle East) who share how their team works to support and encourage pastors and national leaders around the world. From creating safety nets that prevent burnout to building synergy and global connection, they reveal how community and collaboration keep minis…
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3:22 Is it Possible That None of Us Will Fully Experience Wholeness Until All of Us Do?
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30:39When was the last time you had an injury that slowed you down? Perhaps your arm was in a sling, or you had your foot in a cast. It's frustrating when our bodies are limited or in pain, right? Painful limitations are the reality for the families that Children of Promise work with around the world. However, each person is made whole as they belong to…
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3:21 Empower Your Ministry With AI, Understanding Its Dangers and Challenges
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37:12In this episode, R.W. and guest, Joe Watkins, explore how pastors and churches can use AI to help navigate changing work and life, especially as it continues to be integrated more into all that we do. By grounding our identity in God’s calling and fostering strong, supportive relationships, we can prevent AI from replacing community. Joe has served…
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3:20 How Your Church Can Become an "Intentional Church"
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34:39On this episode of the COGO Podcast, R.W. Moody hosts Bart Rendel, co-founder of Intentional Churches, for a conversation rooted in the mission of helping churches become one-aware, activated, and radically aligned with the Great Commission. Drawing from the proven tools and vision of Intentional Churches—including ChurchOS / OneTeam—Bart shares ho…
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3:19 When the Great Commission and the Great Commandment Come Together
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30:28In this episode, RW interviews Gordon Garrett and Tom Moody who are on the Ohio Disaster Relief team as they share how God is using the generosity of Ohio churches to help people with the most need in Ohio and around our world. Learn more about the Disaster Relief Team. Thanks for listening!By COGO: Moving Together
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3:18 RW's Secret Sauce for IYC 2026 Planning
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17:22ATTENTION ALL YOUTH LEADERS! IYC 2026 is just around the corner! Registration opens up October 1 and it's going to be in our great state of OHIO! Cincinnati to be exact! Can we get a whoop whoop! In this episode, RW shares his experience with tips and tricks on how to register and plan for your group to attend IYC. Even if you have gone to IYC in t…
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3:17 How One Simple Model Shaped a Lifetime of Ministry
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26:34We are thrilled to have Rev. Jeannette Flynn join R.W. on the podcast! Living a life of influence starts with finding a ministry model that truly works. For Jeannette, that model is simple but powerful: see one, teach one, release one. This approach has deeply shaped her journey and continues to guide how she mentors and leads others in ministry to…
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On today’s episode, RW sits down with Rev. Steve Chiles as they discuss the theme of OSYC 2025, Imago Dei, and encouraging words for our youth and leaders. Thanks for listening! Rev. Steve Chiles serves as senior pastor at Shartel Church of God in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. For information about Steve and the church he pastors, visit: https://www.sha…
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3:15 Wholly His: God’s Call to Be Distinct from the World for the World
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26:35Would you rather watch this podcast? Check out our new YouTube Podcast Channel! Click here. In this episode, R.W. sits down with Dr. Rev. Jim Feirtag, lead pastor at NorthPark Church in Meridian, Mississippi. Jim authored the devotional, "Wholly His: God's Call to Be Distinct from the World for the World" a uniquely Church of God book for congregat…
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🎙️ Apostles: Generals, Gardeners…or Something Else?
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23:25🎙️ Apostles: Generals, Gardeners…or Something Else? In this Bonus Conversation, Rob Wegner, Alan Hirsch, and Brian Johnson gather over pizza to explore why apostolic leadership has become a crossroads moment for the Church. They unpack two radically different visions: apostles as empire-building generals vs. apostles as humble architects who cultiv…
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3:14 Meet Our Interim General Director, Monté Dillard!
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35:22The future is bright for our movement and we are thrilled to have our Interim General Director, Rev. Monté Dillard, join us on this episode as he shares his story and how God led him to serve at our national office. God is at work in some incredible ways in the Church of God and you will want to listen to this podcast in its entirety to hear a snea…
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3:13 Our New State Pastor Joins Us On Our 50th Episode!
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26:05We are excited to have Rev. Dr. Melissa Pratt, State Pastor Elect, as the guest for our 50th episode. To celebrate, we are offering this podcast as a video which you can watch by clicking this link. Thank you for listening! It is because of you, our listeners, we are able to continue with this podcast, sharing stories, equipping leaders, and encour…
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Bonus Conversation: Same Vocabulary, Different Spirit
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25:10Bonus Conversation: Same Vocabulary, Different Spirit What happens when the same fivefold vocabulary is used—but fueled by a radically different spirit? In this episode, Rob Wegner, Brian Johnson, and Alan Hirsch dive into the fork in the road facing the Church today. On one side: the rise of the New Apostolic Reformation, steeped in hierarchy, dom…
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3:12 Exploring the Role of AI in the Modern Church
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22:07In today’s episode, we’re diving into how churches are beginning to harness the power of artificial intelligence. From streamlining administration to enhancing Bible study and outreach, AI is opening new doors for ministry. But with innovation comes important questions about ethics, discernment, and spiritual guidance. Join R.W. and Aaron Holman as…
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Bonus Conversation: The Rise of the Servant Equippers (ft. Lucas Pulley)
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29:13Bonus Conversation: The Rise of the Servant Equippers (ft. Lucas Pulley) Episode Description: What kind of leadership helps movements multiply without losing their soul? In this Bonus Conversation from the Hubology series, Rob, Brian, and Lucas Pulley (Tampa Underground) unpack the hidden role of servant equipers—those who quietly cultivate health,…
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Pastors, do you remember your call to ministry? Everyone’s call is unique, but it is fascinating to hear how God moves in another’s life journey. In this episode, our state pastor, Rev. Dr. Esther Cottrell shares her journey with Jesus and God’s call into ministry. You will be encouraged to hear the lessons Esther has learned over her (many) years …
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🎙️ When Is a Hub Team Needed? Timing, Tension, and Trusting the Spirit
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23:44In this bonus episode, Rob and Brian tackle one of the most pivotal questions in movement leadership: When is it time to form a hub team? Drawing from years of experience with the Kansas City Underground, they explore why starting with structure can sabotage multiplication—and how waiting on the Spirit’s timing creates space for healthy, decentrali…
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In this episode, Alex Svarda shares with RW his vision and passion for the youth of Ohio and his ministry at Camp Lebanon where he is the camp director. Alex is no stranger to COGO as he was a session speaker at the 2025 Start Fresh conference. For more information on Alex and his ministry at Camp Lebanon, visit: http://lebanoncamps.com/about-us/ou…
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3:9 Finding Your Neighbor In Uncommon Places
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34:02Do you really know who your neighbors are in your community? Have you found it difficult to fulfill the Great Commission with those who live near you? In this episode, you will hear an incredible story and strategy that Rev. Beth Wolff has implemented in the community where she lives. Beth is the lead pastor at Clarksburg Church in Clarksburg, MD a…
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🎙 Bonus Conversation: Zero Hour vs. Western Edge – A Contrast in Contextualization
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32:25In this Bonus Conversation, we explore the power of contextualization within decentralized movement leadership through a deep dive into two distinct hubs in the Kansas City Underground: Zero Hour, equipping high school students, and Western Edge, serving a broad suburban and rural network. Cory McElvain (Zero Hour) and Brian Johnson (Western Edge) …
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Bonus Conversation: Equipping Gatherings vs. Weekend Services - Bonus Conversation: Equipping Gatherings vs. Weekend Services — What's the Difference?
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21:58Bonus Conversation: Equipping Gatherings vs. Weekend Services - What's the Difference? In this bonus episode, we explore how equipping gatherings form a radically different culture than weekend services. It’s not about inspiration—it’s about incarnation. From stories of mission to discovery-based training, these gatherings function more like a gym …
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3:8 Mastering the Message with Bishop Timothy Clarke
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38:21Preaching is one the primary responsibilities of a pastor. It is an art that one must work on continuously through study, prayer, and practice. In this episode, Bishop Timothy Clarke shares how you can improve your preaching skills no matter what level you are. You will step away challenged and encouraged after listening! Bishop Clarke serves in ma…
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Bonus Conversation: Equipping at the Edge: Tools, Huddles, and Frameworks for the Wild
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26:05In this Bonus Conversation, we dive into the heart of equipping—the very lifeblood that powers decentralized disciple-making. As we explore hubs, tools, and training, we uncover the core of equipping at the edge. This isn't about more content; it’s about transforming lives and multiplying Kingdom work through intentional, practical support. Check o…
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Bonus Conversation: Why We Need Hubs - The Trellis Behind the Vine
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18:34In this Bonus Conversation, we launch our new series on Hubology—a made-up word for a very real need in decentralized movements. As disciple-making spreads and microchurches multiply, one essential structure keeps emerging again and again: the Hub Team. So what is a hub? Not a headquarters. Not a hierarchy. A hub is a catalytic team that equips, co…
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When Good Intentions Hurt: Why Cultural Humility and Intelligence Is Essential for the Disciple-Making with Dr. Longa & Matt Millar
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50:55Millar How do we know if we’re contextualizing the Gospel—or just colonizing with it? What if our good intentions are still laced with cultural superiority? Could cultural humility be the next great frontier for disciple-making movements in the West? In this episode of The Starfish and the Church, I sat down with Dr. Longa and Matt Millar, co-autho…
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Has God called you into ministry and are you wondering what the next step you can take? In this episode, you’ll learn about the nuts and bolts of Leadership Focus, our credentialing tool we use in the Church of God. R.W. interviews Rev. Kimberly Leach, the credentialing administrator for COGO. Kimberly shares information on how you can join Leaders…
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Bonus Conversation: Telling a Better Story - Reimagining Leadership Through the System Story of the Kingdom
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22:13In this episode, you get to eavesdrop on a Starfish Accelerator, and hear from Lance Ford, as wee unpack the idea of a system story—the invisible narrative that shapes how we lead and live. Drawing from scripture and missional thought, we explore why real change in the church won’t happen until we rewrite the system story around the Lordship of Jes…
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3:6 Recorded Live from 3SLi 2025! A Discussion On Youth Leadership With Sarah Wedel
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24:56Listen as RW interviews guest speaker, Pastor Sarah Wedel, in between sessions at the 3SLi conference in Cincinnati, OH earlier this month. Sarah serves at McDowell Church in Scottsdale, AZ as the student life pastor. In this episode, she shares a few of her experiences and passion for raising up the next generation of leaders including encourageme…
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We’ve all been there, having that feeling of isolation in ministry. You are not alone! R.W. sits down with Rev. Angie Swonger who is a licensed professional counselor and they discuss the need and opportunities for Church of God pastors to get counseling. For more information about Angie, visit:https://movingforwardcounselingservices.com/angie-swon…
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Bonus Conversation: Alan Hirsch: The Six P's of Incarnational Mission - Walking the Way of Jesus
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16:48Alan brought the heat and light in the Starfish Accelerator , pouring out his heart on Incarnational Mission. Now, it's here for you—to challenge, inspire, and equip both you and those you disciple and serve. What does it mean to truly live the mission of Jesus? In this episode, we unpack the Six P’s of Incarnational Mission—Presence, Proximity, Pr…
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3:4 Sacred & Digital: Embracing Technology in Ministry
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23:29RW Moody talks with David Bullock, COGO Technology Consultant, on how to use tech in the church to the glory of God. Not all congregations need to be wired to worship, but everything can be done with excellence. David is the Executive Pastor at Awake Church in Shelby, OH and was ordained with the Church of God in 2006. He and his wife, Rita, have b…
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How We Train Matters as Much As What We Train
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28:00Join the Starfish Substack for free. If our training methods don’t look like Jesus’ way of making disciples, why do we expect Jesus-like results? In this Bonus Conversation, we dive into a topic that is easy to overlook but is critical for the multiplication of disciples and leaders—pedagogy. That’s right. We’re talking about how we train people, n…
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Bonus Episode: Five Coals That Cultivate a Culture of Extraordinary Prayer
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21:24Is a prayer movement something we’re waiting for—or something Jesus is already leading? In this episode, we unpack the five coals that ignite and sustain a culture of extraordinary prayer. We start with the story of Esther, an elderly woman whose hidden life of intercession shaped generations. From there, we explore what it takes to cultivate a mov…
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3:3 Tim & Becky Heller Open Up About Their Parenting Journey
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32:57
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32:57In this podcast, you’ll get to know an Ohio power couple, Tim and Becky Heller, both ordained in the Church of God. Tim serves as the youth pastor at Meadow Park Church in Columbus and Becky is the new admin for COGO Ministries. R.W. interviews the two as they share their parenting journey from infertility to foster parents. Those you know who are …
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Bonus: Starfish Tools - Relational Spheres of Jesus with Rich Robinson
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19:13One of the powerful disciple-making tools we’ve been exploring this month in the Starfish Accelerator is the Relational Spheres of Jesus—a framework that helps us map out our relational world based on Jesus’ own pattern of ministry. Recently, Rich Robinson walked us through this tool with remarkable clarity, helping us see how Jesus intentionally s…
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3:2 Meet the Ohio Student Leadership Team for OSYC 2025
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13:02R.W. sits down with the OSYC Student Leadership Team as they discuss the process for planning the annual Ohio State Youth Convention. Listen and be encouraged by the fact we have incredible youth in our state who are stepping into their God-call. Watch for your save-the-date card and fresh theme for OSYC 2025!…
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Hot Takes: The New Apostolic Reformation, The White House, and The Atlantic
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26:22Join the the Starfish Substack for free. You'll gain access to you’ll gain access to practical wisdom, articles, tools, assessments and insights that foster your growth as a Starfish Leader In this Hot Takes episode, Rob Wegner, Alan Hirsch, Lance Ford, and Chris Caputo explore the rise of the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) and its implica…
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3:1 A Conversation on Transition with Our State Associate Pastor, Rev. Demetrius Booker
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32:14If you have been in the Church of God in Ohio very long, you likely have had contact with our State Associate Pastor, Rev. Demetrius Booker. Demetrius has made a lasting impact on our state and in this episode, he discusses his call to ministry, lessons he has learned in following Jesus, and next steps for his future. Demetrius has served the Lord …
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Liminality, Liberation, and Leadership: Lessons on Movement from the Black and Brown Church in the West
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35:56Join the the Starfish Substack for free. You'll gain access to you’ll gain access to practical wisdom, articles, tools, assessments and insights that foster your growth as a Starfish Leader In the latest episode of The Starfish and the Church Podcast, Rob Wegner sits down with Dele Okuwobi, founder of the Wonder Association, to explore the …
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Bonus Conversation: Transition Small Groups to Microchurches...Sort Of. Maybe.
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18:58In this bonus conversation, Rob Wegner and Brian Johnson tackle a pressing question heard from many church leaders in recent years: Is it possible to transition small groups to microchurches? Drawing from years of experience and coaching, they share candid insights and hard-earned wisdom (also called mistakes and failure) about the challenges and o…
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COGO Ministries wants to wish you a Merry Christmas and thank you for subscribing and listening to our podcast. We are excited for what’s in store in 2025!By COGO: Moving Together
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The Story the Rise and Fall of Mars Hill Podcast DIDN'T Tell You (Jeff Vanderstelt)
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42:59In this episode of The Starfish and the Church, we had a powerful conversation with my friend Jeff Vanderstelt, who stepped into the chaos after Mark Driscoll’s departure from Mars Hill. This is the story the Rise and Fall of Mars Hill Podcast chose not to tell you. We covered: What really happened after the rise and fall The painful realities of s…
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2:23 The Nuts and Bolts of Internships with Bob Hawker
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27:40How important is on the job training in your field? Do you remember learning from your Pastor or other leader how to do ministry? Most careers have a type of apprenticeship program to train individuals and set them up for success. Intern Academy is THIS program for our movement. Intern Academy is a program that coaches, provides training and curric…
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How Leaders Heal - Addressing Trauma in Us and Our Communities (Chuck DeGroat and Michelle Wegner)
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40:51Join the Starfish Substack. Healing what's within. How do we heal? Where do we begin? What questions do we need to ask? In this thought-provoking conversation, Rob Wegner, Lance Ford, and Michelle and Chuck DeGroat delve into the profound themes of healing, trauma, and connection within the church. Drawing from their personal experiences and theolo…
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Bonus Conversation: Four Mistakes Early Microchurch Practitioners Make
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25:25In this bonus conversation, Rob Wegner and Brian Johnson dive into the heart of what it means to navigate the challenges of cultivating networks of microchurches. Drawing on years of experience and plenty of missteps, they reflect on the key lessons captured in the *Four Mistakes Early Microchurch Practitioners Make* article. The discussion offers …
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2:22 Learn to Adapt to Change During Transitions and Embrace the Season You're In.
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1:29:23Let's face it, change is HARD. No matter how much you prepare for the inevitable seasons of change you are in, it's tough. Pastor Jake Zaske shares in this episode at COGO's General Assembly which took place on October 19, 2024 at Meadow Park Church on the subject of transitions. If you were in attendance, you are encouraged to listen again to word…
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