In this episode, Peter talks about the importance of solitude in our life and shares a few simple, practical ways for us as men to quiet the noise. We also read Psalm 23 and Psalm 46 to help us usher in this necessary spiritual practice in our everyday lives.

What role do elders play in our lives, and why do we need them? In this episode, we explore the value of having older men who are full of wisdom and experience to guide us through life. While mentors are important, there’s something uniquely powerful about learning from elders—those who have walked many seasons and still live with faith, generosity, and passion. We dive into how their stories, presence, and perspectives can deeply shape us, helping us grow in our faith, family, and work. Join us as we reflect on the need for elders and the profound impact they have on our journey.

In this episode, we’ll hear from Peter as we close out the final essay in Vol I of Kinsmen Journal written by Morgan Snyder of Wild at Heart. Morgan invites us to ask the hard questions of ourselves. What will be remembered about us when we’re gone? What will our family and closest friends say?   Also, Peter shares about upcoming events for KINSMEN, including in SW Missouri, as well as elsewhere. Be sure to sign-up for the KINSMEN emails at kinsmen.org/subscribe to stay informed of events.   Links:   Becoming Good Soil

In this episode we hear from Peter on the subject of Courage, as well as an essay on Worship from Kinsmen Journal – Volume I. At a recent gathering, Peter spoke on the importance of pursuing what is hard and difficult, and that it often takes courage from each of us to do what’s necessary. He presents an alternative definition for the word, not one based on heroics, but one that’s a response from a life that’s consecrated to God. Also, his essay on worship could be an applicable reset on how our worship unto God is about him and it’s a privilege to rest and worship in his presence, particularly in our local church.

In this episode, Peter reads a timely letter written for the church about men. The letter is rooted in the Gospel and expounds on three observations regarding men, society, and the church. This is one of the most important episodes to date, so please share it and discuss with others.

In this episode, Peter gives some exciting updates on KINSMEN as we head into the new year. Also, we continue our plumblines series with two essays as we hear from Jon Carlos Velez through his words on the subject of expression as well as Lee Domingue as he writes and speaks on Legacy. Enjoy this rich episode as we near the end of reading through Kinsmen Journal Vol I.

Plumblines: An essay on Holy vs. Worldly Ambition   In this essay, we continue our plumbline series as we measure ourselves as men to what God’s word intends. Today’s episode centers on the subject of Ambition. What is it? How do we use it for good or for self? We hear from Brian Tome, pastor of Crossroads Church in Cincinnati, OH and founder of Man Camp. We also share the opening pages of the chapter titled The Shadow of Ambition in Jon Tyson’s most recent book, Fighting Shadows. Ambition is a gift, created by God and infused into the hearts of men. Listen in as we learn how it can be shaped for God’s glory.The Aggressive Life PodcastMan Camp

In this episode, we kickoff our Plumblines section of Kinsmen Journal with an original essay from author and psychotherapist Jay Stringer on the subject of desire. This topic is one that can quickly lead to discussions about shame and what men shouldn’t be doing. Instead though, Jay invites us to explore the subject further and consider desire through a different lens. Jay’s book, Unwanted: How Sexual Brokenness Reveals Our Way to Healing is regarded as one of the foremost resources on the subject. This is an episode not to be missed, though it may be sensitive for listeners under 13.

In this episode, Peter shares some timely thoughts and encouragement surrounding the political and divisive state where we find ourselves in America. First though, we look to scripture for wisdom and truth as we read Jesus’ words from The Sermon on the Mount.

In this two-essay episode, we wrap up the Work section of Kinsmen Journal, Vol I with two rich essays on revisiting what can be essential in carrying out the assignment and work before us. The topics: consistent friendship with others, and a strategy to balance the demands of work and everyday life. Hal Easley shares about the simple, yet profoundly impactful weekly breakfast he’s been attending for decades. The compounding effect of this commitment to showing up has influenced each area of his life, and he encourages us to do the same. And Kevin Harris reminds each of us to consider what matters most, and how we balance the pull of work and family.

In this episode, we hear from our friend Dave Hataj. Dave is a second-generation machinist and owner of Edgerton Gear in Edgerton, WI. Dave’s story is a common one, leaving town to pursue something bigger and better, only to end up back in his hometown, leading the family business. The journey has certainly had considerable heartache, but Dave’s faithfulness and grit has led to a life more fulfilling than he ever could have imagined, running a gear shop and serving his community. This episode will encourage and inspire each of us as we’re reminded that all work unto God is sacred work.   Good Work – Link to book Craftsman with Character

In this episode, we gain a better understanding of how God is using men who are led by His Spirit to accomplish His work. To quote the essay, “God does not anoint who you pretend to be or who people perceive you to be. God anoints who you were hand-crafted to be.” This is a glimpse into the richness of this essay that will quickly encourage you as you grow in your faith.  

In this episode we hear from Tom Nelson, pastor, and founder of Made to Flourish, an organization that empowers pastors and their churches to integrate faith, work, and economic wisdom for the flourishing of their communities. Tom eloquently shares why the work we do is both holy and an essential form of worship. This essay is a necessary reminder of what each of us carry as salt and light in the communities we serve, and in our workplaces.   Links to the following organizations:   Made To Flourish Faith Driven Entrepreneur C12 Convene

In this episode, Ashton Owens, tells some of his story through his essay. Ashton is a serial entrepreneur and marketing executive. His pursuits are extensive, but his leadership of Triple Threat Creative is his primary focus. From designing and launching brands, to developing the creative through videography, design and story-telling. Triple Threat is made up of designers, film makers, and marketers who are passionate, driven, and always pushing the envelope.   Ashton’s story is one of triumph, heartache, and family.   https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashtonowens/ https://www.triple-threat.co/

In this episode, we open the Work section of Kinsmen Journal Vol I with an essay on who we are, and in particular, who we are in our work. Jeremy Wells is a brand strategist on hotelier headquartered in the Midwest. His words are timely as we consider the brand we’re building in the marketplace, starting with the most frequent question we ask of others, “What do you do?”   Jeremy challenges us to consider the deeper questions related to our work and the brand we carry as believers. He leads with a series of questions we should be asking of ourselves:   Who am I? Why am I here? What then should I do?   Also, Peter gives an update on Season II of the podcast, as well as gatherings being hosted for me in and throughout the Midwest.   Links:   https://longitudedesign.com/ https://kinsmen.org/gatherings https://www.linkedin.com/in/wellsjeremy/

In this episode, we continue our discussion on the importance of words in our Words to Live By section of Kinsmen Journal. Likewise to last week, we ask the same four questions geared towards men. This week we have the five remaining words from Vol I: Grace, Heart, Meek, Steadfast and Sabbath. Scripture has much to say about the words we speak and the context for their importance. This episode is not to be missed and is a perfect companion to Volume I in print and for group discussion.

In this episode, we discuss the importance of words in our Words to Live By section of Kinsmen Journal. We ask the same four questions geared towards men for each of the following words: Abide, Consecrate, Covenant and Exalt. Scripture has much to say about the words we speak and the context for their importance. This episode is not to be missed and is a perfect companion to Volume I in print and for group discussion.

In this episode we briefly wrap up our commentary on the Fatherhood section of Volume I. In doing so, we provide some timely resources for you to explore in the new year. Also, we introduce an essay on desire by Jay Stringer. Jay is a psychotherapist and challenges each of us on the way in which we think about the subject of desire in our lives. This is a powerful essay and an episode that’s not to be missed as we start the new year.

In this episode, we hear a poignant essay by Dr. Jon Spence. Jon writes about the legacy of his late father, Dr. Robert Spence, who was an anchor in the Springfield, MO community for nearly five decades. Jon’s words are rich with wisdom as we learn about the importance of transitioning well, setting a proper goal, seeing people for their uniqueness and value, as well as why it’s essential we invite others in and ask for help.

In this episode, we combine two essays into one. Starting with a conversation on America’s pastime, and why fun and joy with our kids can be found in unexpected places. We close the episode with a timely essay by Dr. Tim Elmore, who’s known as one of the foremost leaders on the study generational differences and communication. Tim provides wisdom to us as parents, reminding us of some important tools to help shape the lives of our children.