Leading Simple with Rusty George

Author, speaker, podcaster, and entrepreneurial coach Jo Saxton is on a mission to inspire leaders to own their voice, lead confidently, and to make a difference; and this unforgettable conversation is no exception. In this episode, Jo shares her personal journey of discovering her gifts, the process and vision that took place in writing her books, and even her love for Target. We discuss women empowerment in the church and workplace, a powerful and necessary topic. If you're looking for jolt of inspiration, a leader worth following, and even a good laugh, I know that you'll love this episode.

The Covid season has forced church leaders to make some of the most difficult and controversial decisions of their ministry career. But specifically, the question has been: "When do we move church back inside?" ... Do we wait until it's legal? Do we stay outside for the betterment of our community? Do we move indoors for the betterment of our community? What does the Bible say about this problem? My co-host Brad Williams and I have an honest discussion in this episode about how we ultimately decided to move Real Life Church and all of its campuses back indoors.

We all have questions about the afterlife... Will I be myself? Will I see friends and loved ones? What will Heaven look like? What is God like? What will we do forever? What about children and pets? John Burke is the New York Times best-selling author of "Imagine Heaven: Near-Death Experiences, God's Promises, and the Exhilarating Future that Awaits You". As the lead pastor of Gateway Church and the founder of Gateway Leadership Initiative, John is a powerful leader and minister of the gospel, who's insights into life after death will leave you with awe and excitement of the life to come. John answers the most pondered questions with confidence and grace, steering us to the Bible and sharing unforgettable near-death experiences where people have seen glimpses of heaven. I know this episode will leave you stronger in your faith, and more confident than ever in the eternity to come spent with our savior. Do you have questions about the afterlife that you would like John Burke to answer in Part Two of this episode? DM me your questions on my Instagram account (@rustylgeorge), and your question might just be featured!

We want to take some time this year to discuss an important topic: mental health. But, more specifically, practical and doable ways that we can all build better, stronger mental health in 2021. This last year took quite a toll on all of us... Statistics of depression, anxiety, and suicide are through the roof as the world attempts to recover from the stress and difficulty we all experienced. So how can we recover, heal, and reclaim our mental health? Jim Beebe, LMFT has been a practicing licensed counselor for 34 years. Jim is passionate about helping his clients seek wholeness spiritually, mentally, and emotionally. And in today's episode, he guides us through just that. I believe this episode will bring healing to you today, and I pray that our conversation on establishing better mental health will guide you towards healing and wholeness.

Did Jesus Christ really raise from the dead after three days? And if yes, how can we really know for sure? This Holy Week, I'm joined in this rerun episode by best-selling author and former investigative journalist, Lee Strobel. An atheist-turned-Christian, Lee has sought answers to all of the questions that come with the Christian faith. His best-selling novel "The Case for Christ" details his conversion to Christianity. For the last twenty-five years, his life’s work has been to share the evidence that supports the truth and claims of Christianity, and to equip believers to share their faith with the people they know and love. Lee and I honestly and openly discuss the facts and the evidence on Christ's resurrection, the entire crucifixion account, and much more. I believe our conversation will illuminate your path of faith, and will help you grow in both understanding and a deeper faith in God.

Tuvya Zaretsky, a leader at "Jews for Jesus", joins me to discusses the importance & significance of The Passover for Christians today. A rerun episode from last year, we discuss Tuvya's background in Judaism, his faith transformation to becoming a Christian, and what we can learn from Jesus' growing up as a Jew. I know that Tuvya's message will illuminate your path of faith this Holy Week.

Tim Celek from Stadia Church Planting Group joins me in this episode today to discuss everything that church planters need to know in 2021. Tim has pioneered and planted churches that have reached thousands for the gospel, with a keen understanding on how to make the modern church refreshing and new for young believers. Tim is a personal hero of mine, and I'm so glad that you're getting to meet and hear from him today. We discuss everything from a practical breakdown of a church plant timeline, to Tim's hardest and greatest moments in his church planting ministry. If you're at all interested in planting a church in California, please reach out to me and my team at [email protected]

Nona Jones is a global thought leader, author, executive, and pastor taking the social media world by storm. But what's her mission? To share the kingdom impact that social media can have... As well as to shed light on the darker side. Author of "From Social Media to Social Ministry: A Guide to Digital Discipleship", Nona quite literally wrote the book on digital ministry. Our conversation today is honest and deep, opening the door to the impact that social media is really having on you, your kids, and those around you. But it's not all bad news - Nona is quick to share the impact we can have as Christians in the social media world, and how we as believers can best use these platforms for Kingdom-minded impact.

ESPN College Basketball Analyst Jimmy Dykes joins podcast host Michael Hinton and myself to discuss filling out our NCAA March Madness brackets this season. Jimmy, former basketball player and coach, gives us the expert advice that we're all looking for. We're answering all of the questions you can think of during March Madness, and I can't wait for you to listen. Jimmy is a follower of Jesus and the author of the book "The Film Doesn't Lie: Evaluating Your Life One Play at a Time"

Hearing from God... Is it possible? Is it an audible voice? Writing on the wall? How do you really *know* when God has spoken to you? My friend and co-host Brad Williams joins me in this episode to discuss our personal experiences in hearing God and what we believe the Bible teaches us about listening to His voice. A special welcome to our friends at Charisma Podcast Network! I'm honored to have joined your platform and team.

How is your mental health really doing? Anxiety, stress, suicide, and prescription medication statistics are on the rise at an alarming rate. And since the beginning of Covid-19, things have only gotten much, much worse. So, how do we get our mental health back on track? Dan Broyles(LMFT, Social Worker, and Care Pastor)joins me today to share how we can all have strong mental health in ourselves and in our families in 2021. In this important conversation, we talk about comfort addiction, anxiety, avoiding conflict, understanding different conflict styles, acknowledging our new fears Covid-19 has brought on, and much more. We're in this together, friends. I believe that today's conversation will be a light in the darkness that many are experiencing in their mental health journey today.

Stress less. Accomplish more. Win the day. Who doesn't want more of all of that? Well-known author of "The Circle Maker" & lead pastor of National Community Church, Mark Batterson joins me in this episode to discuss the life-changing lessons and habits he's learned on winning the day in writing, fatherhood, leadership, and pastoral ministry. We discuss his best "Jedi mind tricks" for writing and publishing books, his secrets to hitting points home in sermons, his (very unexpected) favorite book, and the shelf he runs to when he first walks into Barnes & Noble. Mark is a wealth of knowledge for habits and structures you can implement into your life and leadership to "win the day" every day. This conversation was so unforgettable for me and has truly transformed my daily habits -- I know it will be just as life-changing for you too.

Sean Morgan, KC-10 Air Force pilot and Executive Pastor, joins me in this episode to discuss crisis leadership lessons he's learning in flight, as well as learning to embrace discomfort and unpredictability in life, work, and ministry. Sean has spent the last few years inspiring leaders and pastors as he merges his ministry background with his vocational leadership as the podcast host to "Leaders in Living Rooms", where he meets with top-notch leaders from all over the world. You don't want to miss hearing Sean's story and what he has to say about "decision fatigue" and constant stress in 2020/2021. I know this episode will be life-changing for anyone feeling burnt-out and looking for ways to lead with vision clarity.

Brad Williams and I tackle one of the most difficult questions in Spirit-led leadership: How do I discover God's timing for all of my leadership decisions? It's been a difficult year, and many of us are desperately seeking ways to make the best leadership decisions possible for better outcomes than 2020 brought us. We want a better year, and we want it now. But are we operating and making decisions out of our own timelines, or in God's timeline? Why is it so hard to trust God? Tune into this episode and join our honest conversation as we tackle these difficult questions.

Every leader knows that good leadership doesn’t come without experiencing pain… But are we equipped to handle that pain with the right kind of thinking? Dr. Sam Chand (a personal hero of mine and the President Emeritus at Beulah Heights University) knows the ins and outs of leadership success and struggles. His manyHis powerful life-journey and his many books and resources has helped leaders all over the world learn to release dreams, build a healthy team, and strong leadership development. He joins us in this episode to ask the real questions: “What does church growth have to do with leadership?” “How can I differentiate between good growth pains and my own stupidity causing pain?” “As a leader, what questions should I be asking my team in meetings?” “How can I handle change to the best of my ability?” Dr. Chand says it best: “There is no growth without change, no change without loss, and no loss without pain.” I can’t wait for you to listen.

Andy Stanley, founding pastor of North Point Community Church, joins the podcast to talk leadership and his new book Better Decisions Fewer Regrets

132: Praying in the New Year after a Year of God Seeming Silent by Rusty George

Bonus Episode: Dr. Alveda King, niece of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. talks family, faith, forgiveness by Rusty George

131: Jonathan Pokluda on Helping Teens Become Adults, Date, and Find a Church that they Connect with by Rusty George

What are those things you are praying for in 2021? Let me share a few things that I am praying for this year.

So many of us are looking to 2021 through the shadow of 2020. In this episode, Mike Linch of "Linch with a Leader" joins me to discuss how we can define our spiritual leadership in 2021. And whether you're a leader of a church or a business or any sort of group, we believe that it's key that we leaders lean in this new year and define our spiritual leadership based on what God has to say. Mike is the pastor of NorthStar Church in Kennesaw, GA, is the kind of leader you want to stand behind, and I can't wait for you to hear what he has to say.

Best-selling author, renowned pastor of North Point Church, and one of my personal heroes: Andy Stanley joins me in this episode today to discuss his new book "Better Decisions, Fewer Regrets: 5 Steps to Help You Determine Your Next Move". Andy shares his journey of how he learned to make decisions as a leader, father, and pastor. He shares the five questions we all need to ask before making decisions, and they're life-changing.

I learn a lot from being a pastor. I also learn a lot from being a father. And, I learn a lot from being a follower of Jesus just trying to love God and love others and serve Him with my life. 2020 is wrapping up, and I've been thinking on all of the lessons I've learned from this unprecedented year. Take a listen, and share in the comments what lessons these last twelve months have taught you.

Film stars Ryan McPartlin (actor known for his role in Chuck) and Dan Angel (writer, producer, actor) join me in this episode to share what Hallmark movies have to teach us about Christmas. They're experience and expertise in these films gives us a fun and insightful inside look into the world of these films. They're more than just movies, and I can't wait for you to hear why.

It's no secret that 2020 has been draining in, well, every area... But the Bible urges us as believers to "fight the good fight, finish the race, and keep the faith." (2 Timothy 4:7) So, how can we find purpose and energy to finish the race of 2020 strong? Join my friend Brad Williams and myself in this episode to dive into Jesus' example of how we can accomplish just that.

Every leader has faced seasons of discouragement. And many of us have faced it more than ever in 2020. So how do we overcome this discouragement and move onward? How did Jesus overcome discouragement? Join Brad Williams and I in this episode as we tackle this timely and prevalent topic.

Former ESPN Producer and newly published author Jason Romano joins us in this episode to talk about living his faith while working in a high-pressure environment like ESPN. He shares his powerful testimony of forgiveness and redemption and how God has moved in unexpected, miraculous ways in both his career and life. His recently published book, "The Uniform of Leadership" is a must-read for anyone in leadership.

A year after the tragic shooting at Saugus Highschool that claimed the life of Gracie Muehlberger, her parents, Bryan and Cindy, talk faith, family and coping with the loss of a child.

How do you discover your leadership style? How does your upbringing, personality type, and background influence the kind of leader you will be? Brad Williams joins me in this episode where we discuss our own leadership styles and what helped us discover them.

How do you craft a message or speech that connects with every audience and listener? In this episode, I'm sharing my process and my best advice. I share Andy Stanley's game-changing speech writing questions, and you'll never write messages the same after you hear them.

120: Kristina Kuzmič on Parenting During COVID & Protecting Your Kids from Social Media Bullies by Rusty George

As leaders, we've all faced rejection (especially in 2020). In fact, it's safe to say that everyone has faced rejection at some point in their life! And Jesus faced more rejection than any of us. So, how do we handle moments of rejection with the same grace and love that our Savior does? As leaders, how can we respond to rejection like Jesus?

"After Amen: What to do When You're Waiting on God" is officially live an available for purchase on all major booksellers as paperback, Kindle, and Audible as of this week. But, in today's episode, we're doing something very special: I want to read to you the first chapter of my book with some never before heard updates and comments from what has changed in my life since initially writing this chapter. (Hint... We got a cat.) I cannot wait for you all to read it. Those of you who already have your copy, share in the comments below what your favorite section is so far. https://www.afteramenbook.com/

Pastor Dudley Rutherford, founding pastor of Real Life Church, joins me in this episode in honor of the 20 year RLC anniversary to discuss his history at RLC, growing up as a pastors kid, his ministries over the recent years, and his thoughts on the NBA finals.

Renowned generational expert, author, and consultant Haydn Shaw joins us in this episode to help us understanding generational differences during a time in the world where they are more apparent than ever.

Brad Williams and I share all about the must-read leadership book that changed our lives and organizations for the better: "The 4 Disciplines of Execution: Achieving Your Wildly Important Goals". We truly wish we had found this book years ago! Tune in to this episode to hear all about our main takeaways and how this book has changed us for the better.

Yes, I'm passionate about Jesus, churches, my family, sports teams... But, for those of you who know me well, you know that I'm very passionate about setting goals and making progress. This episode outlines the seven things that have helped me set goals and achieve them well in life, leadership, and ministry.

Steve Cuss (lead pastor of Discovery Christian Church in Broomfield, CO) joins me in this episode to discuss managing anxiety in leadership and in life. His book, "Managing Leadership Anxiety: Yours and Theirs" has been integral in my own leadership studies and personal growth. Read it today, I know it will bring so much fruit to your leadership.

Local police officer, London McBride, joins Pastor Cole Parrish and I in this episode to discuss his poignant and timely insight as an African American police officer against racism. His perspective into the law enforcement world is so eye-opening, encouraging listeners that "good cops really do hate bad cops". He shares powerful advice on how to fight racism in America, starting at home with how we teach our kids.

Pastor Randy Frazee joins me in this episode to discuss building community in his church during these difficult times, making room for life amidst ministry and leadership, and shares his wisdom and insight into the afterlife.

Hurry now, there's only a limited number of spots! I would be honored to have you be a part of the group that is helping promote my new and upcoming book "After Amen" (publishing October 13th). As a part of the After Amen launch team, you will receive the following: • One free copy of After Amen upon release • Access to first chapter before release (immediately when you join) • Access to a private After Amen Facebook group where Rusty will do personal, live check ins In return, we ask that you would promote "After Amen" on your prospective channels and leave a review on major book websites. We'll even provide the social media content for you! Join today at the following link: http://eepurl.com/hbhBcz

Pastor of Embrace Church and author, Adam Weber, joins us in this episode to discuss the heart behind his new book, "Love Has a Name: Learning to Love the Different, the Difficult, & Everyone Else". We talk about the struggles of an extrovert during COVID-19 quarantine, as well his testimony of God calling him home, not away, to pursue a life of ministry.

The events of 2020 have lead to a year of full unusual amounts of negativity, negative feedback, and honest opinions for both leaders in ministry and leaders in the world. So, how do we stay optimistic amidst all of the criticism? Brad Williams joins me today to discuss how to combat negativity and stay optimistic in ministry and leadership roles. We pray that this episode encourages you to push onward in the good work you are doing in this important and unprecedented year.

Pastor Brian Jones joins us in this episode to have an honest conversation on losing his faith and finding it again. He shares his powerful testimony that touches on overcoming difficult seasons of life, mental health, and doubt and confusion in faith. He also discusses the power of time management, and how we can all utilize time management in our own lives. You can connect with Brian Jones at brianjones.com or on social media at www.instagram.com/pastorbrianjones/

Jason Rogers, an LAPD police officer, joins us in this episode to share his experience at the recent protests and riots, his thoughts on the conflict of "black vs. blue", and his advice on how he believes we can successfully bridge the gap moving forward. Thank you, Jason, for both your service in the Los Angeles police department as well as the US military.

How can we plan our lives while still remaining sensitive to the Holy Spirit? Is it important that we stay flexible to God, even if we love to feel glued to our calendar? Whether you're the 'planner' type, or you're someone who is more likely to 'follow the Spirit', you don't want to miss the work of the Holy Spirit in your life and the opportunities He has for you. Let's learn together as we dig in to what the Bible has to say about this topic in this episode.

Have you ever felt like your anxiety is fueled by your prayers? What should we do when our prayers make our anxiety worse instead of better? Philippians 4:6-7 teaches us, "to not be anxious about anything". Join me in this episode as I share my personal journey on how to tackle anxiety within your prayer life.

As an American Homicide Detective and Christian apologist, J Warner Wallace joins us in this episode to share his 'Cold Case' research and uncover the resurrection of Jesus Christ: Did it really happen? And if so, how do we know? If you have a friend or loved one who has struggled with doubting the resurrection of Jesus, this would be a great episode to share with them.

When we're going through difficult times, the Bible says that "the Holy Spirit will give us the words to speak". It is no secret that God speaks to his people, but it's not always the booming, audible voice from above you see in movies ... No, the Holy Spirit often tends to speak in gentle nudges, often with words we have heard or read before, calling them to our mind at the time of need. Memorizing the verses in this episode, or any verse in the Bible, will better equip your mind to hear what God has to say to you today. What verses have you memorized that have helped you in your time of need?

After three weeks of protests, so many of us are striving to learn, educate, and find answers to move forward in the continued fight against racism. Brad Williams joins me in this episode to share his powerful perspective on what he has learned from these protests as a person of color. In this episode, Brad shares how he's talking to his kids about these difficult topics and how we can open up those conversations in our own homes. He also shares his solution that he believes will result in an anti-racist world (one that may sound familiar to you, from Jesus himself). We are so grateful for these powerful and difficult conversations that we're able to have here on The Rusty George Podcast. If you have any questions or thoughts regarding this episode, reach out to us on social media at @rustylgeorge or at www.pastorrustygeorge.com