The Sowers. features stories and best practices from Canadian church planters and leaders who are influencing kingdom movement and impacting their communities. With a whimsical thoughtful approach and format, episodes and conversations are easy to follow with tangible action steps at each episode’s conclusion. Insights gained can be used as teaching and inspiration for ministry whether personal or church specific.
Hosted by Matt Naismith, The Sowers. podcast desires to help and inspire every listener to become a sower in the places where they live, work, learn and play. Matt was a church planter and local pastor, before transitioning to a catalyst and strategist role for a church planting network.
The Sowers. features stories and best practices from Canadian church planters and leaders who are influencing kingdom movement and impacting their communities. With a whimsical thoughtful approach and format, episodes and conversations are easy to follow with tangible action steps at each episode’s conclusion. Insights gained can be used as teaching and inspiration for ministry whether personal or church specific.
Hosted by Matt Naismith, The Sowers. podcast desires to help and inspire every listener to become a sower in the places where they live, work, learn and play. Matt was a church planter and local pastor, before transitioning to a catalyst and strategist role for a church planting network.
In this episode of The Sowers Podcast, host Matt Naismith sits down with Bishop Jenny Anderson, Rector of St. Paul’s Bloor Street and St. George’s Grange Park in Toronto. Formerly an Area Bishop in the Diocese of Toronto, Bishop Jenny shares her remarkable journey—from growing up in a family of medical missionaries and living across Asia, to transitioning from journalism to ordained ministry in the Anglican Church in Canada.
She reflects on her formative experiences in India, Japan, and London, and how they shaped her gospel vision and missional leadership. The conversation explores the Anglican tradition’s church planting legacy, the spiritual hunger of Gen Z, and the urgent need for gospel-centered collaboration across denominations in Canada.
💡 Key Takeaways:
+Bishop Jenny had faith roots in a missionary family and cross-cultural upbringing
+Wrestling with truth while living in India
+A calling from journalism to ministry
+Global experiences shaping local mission
+Church planting within Anglican tradition
+Gen Z’s spiritual openness and longing for community
+The gospel’s enduring relevance
+The importance of unity and truth in the Canadian church
To learn more about Bishop Jenny Andison and St. Paul's Bloor Street, please visit https://www.stpaulsbloor.org/.
🔔 Subscribe for more conversations that inspire missional living and gospel-centered leadership.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Bishop Jenny Andison
03:05 Journey of Faith: Sowing the Gospel
06:01 From Journalism to Ministry: A Calling Emerges
09:04 The Anglican Tradition: A Family Legacy
11:54 Experiences in Japan and London: Shaping Ministry
14:39 Church Planting: A Movement in the Anglican Church
17:35 The Future of Anglicanism: Opportunities and Challenges
20:32 Engaging Gen Z: The Gospel's Relevance Today
23:24 Staying Rooted in a Busy City
25:54 The Power of the Gospel: Transforming Lives
28:56 Collaborative Efforts: Unity in the Church
31:49 Concerns for the Future: Managing Decline vs. Revival
40:29 NEWCHAPTER
In this episode of The Sowers Podcast, Dr. Keith Taylor shares lessons from more than 40 years of ministry leadership. From his early years in Vernon, BC, to 30 years at Beulah Alliance in Edmonton, Keith reflects on the importance of authentic faith, resilience through hardship, and the centrality of character in leadership.He also opens up about life beyond the pulpit—his journey as a caregiver, his passion for mentoring the next generation, and what it truly means to live missionally and finish well.Takeaways:🌿 Leadership is sustained by character, not just skill.💬 Resilience grows through community and self-awareness.🕊 The gospel continues to deepen as we follow Jesus.💛 Serving and caregiving can be sacred acts of love.Keith Taylor served with the Alliance Canada for more than 4 decades in two churches. For 11 year at the Alliance church in Vernon BC, and for 30 years at Beulah Alliance in Edmonton; a multi-congregational, multi-ethnic, multi-site and multi-generational church.As Beulah celebrated it’s 100th year in 2021, Keith passed the leadership baton of Beulah to a younger leader. Following leaving Beulah, Keith served an interim role as President of the Canadian Alliance Denomination. Keith continues to serve though leadership coaching, church consulting, and speaking. He is a caregiver for his wife Jacquie; they have 3 married adult children, and 7 wonderful grandchildren. Hosted by Matt Naismith, The Sowers Podcast helps you share and follow Jesus in the places you live, work, learn, and play—through stories from Canadian church planters and leaders who are sowing the gospel across the country.🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.Chapters00:00 Journey to Faith: A Personal Story03:29 The Call to Discipleship and Authenticity06:16 Navigating Ministry Challenges and Growth09:23 The Importance of Character in Leadership12:07 Longevity in Ministry: Keys to Endurance14:44 Maintaining Resilience in Leadership17:37 The Missional Church: A Legacy of Outreach20:38 Keeping the Evangelistic Fire Alive23:14 The Transformative Power of the Gospel25:57 Personal Trials and the Depth of God's Love28:47 Encouragement for the Next Generation of Leaders31:31 Final Thoughts: Living Out the Gospel Daily38:50 NEWCHAPTER
In this deeply personal and inspiring episode of The Sowers Podcast, we sit down with Sunder Krishnan—a man whose journey from nuclear engineering to pastoral ministry is a testament to God’s calling and grace.
Born and raised in New Delhi, India, Sunder completed high school in 1961 and graduated from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology in 1967. He went on to earn his Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from MIT in Boston in 1969. That same year, he joined Atomic Energy of Canada, where he spent over a decade working in safety analysis for nuclear generating stations.
But in 1980, Sunder made a life-altering decision: he left his engineering career to join the pastoral staff at Rexdale Alliance Church, where he served faithfully until his retirement in 2016. His passion for teaching the Scriptures and mentoring the next generation has continued ever since.
In this episode, Sundar shares:
+How Youth for Christ played a pivotal role in his journey to faith
+His search for logical answers to spiritual questions
+The transition from a technical career to full-time ministry
+Why prayer, scripture, and holiness are inseparable in the Christian life
+How mentoring requires sensitivity to individual backgrounds
+The challenges of sharing faith in today’s secular culture
+Practical ways everyday Christians can live missionally and authentically
+The power of hospitality, blessing, and presence in discipleship
+Encouragement for the younger generation rising up in faith
Sundar and his wife Shyamala were married in 1971 and have two married children, Vijay and Sheila, along with six grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Today, they worship at The Well, where Vijay his son serves as lead pastor.
This episode is a call to live intentionally, to sow seeds of hope, and to be the presence of Jesus in the lives of others.
🔗 Subscribe to The Sowers Podcast for more stories of everyday mission, discipleship, and kingdom impact.
📌 Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you listen.
#TheSowersPodcast #SundarKrishnan #FaithJourney #PrayerAndScripture #Discipleship #MentoringMatters #AuthenticFaith #KingdomLiving #YouthForChrist #EverydayMission #IIT #MIT #RexdaleAllianceChurch #thewellchurch
Chapters
00:00 Sunder's Journey to Faith
04:52 The Impact of Youth for Christ
08:31 Transitioning to Ministry Leadership
15:02 The Connection Between Prayer, Scripture, and Holiness
20:10 Understanding Holiness and Its Dimensions
26:03 Mentoring and Discipleship in Practice
31:50 Navigating Secular Culture and Its Challenges
38:51 Encouragement for Everyday Followers of Jesus
43:47 NEWCHAPTER
In this conversation, Darrell Johnson—renowned preacher, teacher, and author—shares his journey of faith, the power of preaching, and the importance of listening to the Holy Spirit in everyday witnessing. He reflects on his early encounters with Jesus, his call to ministry influenced by Martin Luther King Jr., and the life-changing nature of the preached word. Darrell also discusses his upcoming book, Awaken Wonder, which invites believers to rediscover the beauty of the Christmas story, and he offers hope for the church’s future in the midst of cultural shifts.
Darrell W. Johnson has been preaching Jesus Christ and His Gospel for over 50 years. He has pastored churches in California, the Philippines, and Canada, including Vancouver’s historic First Baptist Church. He has taught preaching at Fuller Theological Seminary, Carey Theological College, and Regent College, and is the author of multiple books including The Glory of Preaching and Discipleship on the Edge.
Currently serving as a Teaching Pastor at The Way Church and with The Pastorate to strengthen pastors across Canada, Darrell continues to encourage leaders and churches to faithfully preach Christ. He and his wife Sharon have been married for over 50 years, have four children adopted from four countries, and delight in their 11 grandchildren.
Key Takeaways
+Darrell has been aware of Jesus since childhood.
+His call to ministry was shaped by Martin Luther King Jr.’s preaching.
+Preaching transforms lives through the power of God’s word.
+The Holy Spirit is already at work before we share the gospel.
+Witnessing means paying attention to the Spirit’s invitations.
+Every believer has a unique wiring for sharing faith.
+The church must place confidence in the transforming power of Scripture.
+God’s love for the world compels us to approach others with love.
+Awaken Wonder deepens appreciation for the Christmas story.
+There is hope for the church as younger generations seek truth.
To learn more about Darrell, The Pastorate, or The Way Church, please visit:
https://www.darrelljohnson.ca/
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Darrell Johnson
02:39 Darrell's Early Faith Journey
06:20 The Call to Ministry
08:10 The Power of Preaching
12:22 The Role of Context in Preaching
19:35 Witnessing and Evangelism
27:02 Attentiveness to the Holy Spirit
34:25 Upcoming Book: Awaken Wonder
37:26 Hope and Concerns for the Church
44:12 NEWCHAPTER
In this engaging conversation, Brian Carney, Founder and CEO of Blue Sea Foundation, shares his journey from stockbroker to philanthropy leader. He reflects on the transformative role of faith in his life, the birth of Blue Sea Philanthropy, and the power of peer-to-peer fundraising to help charities grow and thrive. Brian also explores the challenges charities face—like donor engagement and funding sustainability—and highlights how churches can play a vital role in supporting local communities. Looking ahead, he offers hope for the future of philanthropy in Canada, shaped by collaboration, innovation, and faith-filled leadership.
Brian Carney is the Founder and CEO of Blue Sea Foundation, which helps charities across North America thrive through peer-to-peer fundraising. Since 2011, Blue Sea’s national events—Coldest Night of the Year, Ride for Refuge, and The Grand Parade—have equipped over 300 charity partners to raise more than $120 million for their local communities.
Brian is passionate about supporting charity leaders who boldly grow and sustain their organizations. Outside of work, he remains a loyal (and long-suffering) Toronto Maple Leafs fan. He and his wife Sylvia, his childhood sweetheart, are proud parents of three adult children and new grandparents to their first granddaughter.
🌱 Key Takeaways
+How peer-to-peer fundraising diversifies donors and strengthens engagement.
+The church’s vital role in supporting local charities.
+Key challenges charities face today, from funding to community impact.
+The power of collaboration among charities for greater reach.
+Why humility and learning from failure are crucial in leadership.
+Signs of hope for the future of Canadian philanthropy.
+How faith continues to shape Brian’s vision and leadership style.
To learn more about Brian and the work of Blue Sea Foundation, please visit https://bluesea.org/.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Brian Carney and His Journey
03:40 The Transformation of Faith and Family
06:17 From Business to Philanthropy: A Personal Journey
09:01 The Birth of Blue Sea Philanthropy
11:52 Challenges Faced by Charities
14:41 The Role of Peer-to-Peer Fundraising
17:34 Expanding Blue Sea's Impact
20:37 The Heart of Philanthropy: A Generous World
23:24 The Church's Role in Charity
In this conversation, Kaitlyn Cey shares her journey and the vision behind Inspire Our Nation, a ministry focused on empowering youth through community engagement and spiritual growth. She unpacks the challenges young people face today, from identity crises to mental health struggles, and emphasizes the church’s calling to walk alongside them with hope, reconciliation, and the transformative power of the gospel. Kaitlyn also reflects on her own story as a teacher, pastor, and coach, and offers practical wisdom on building genuine relationships, collaborating across ministries, and rooting ourselves in God to faithfully serve the next generation.
Kaitlyn Cey is an Author, Speaker, Certified Leadership Coach, and the Founding Executive Director of the youth ministry, Inspire Our Nation. Kaitlyn’s experience teaching, pastoring and coaching has grown her passion for empowering and inspiring leaders of all ages toward their full potential.
✨ Takeaways
+Community engagement is vital for empowering youth.
+Inspire Our Nation fosters reconciliation by connecting diverse groups, especially Indigenous youth.
+The church has a unique role in addressing questions of identity and purpose.
+Genuine relationships—not just programs—unlock meaningful ministry.
+Mental health struggles are often tied to identity and belonging.
+Collaboration between churches and para-church ministries multiplies impact.
+Today’s youth are spiritually curious and open to discovering their identity in Christ.
+Kaitlyn’s journey underscores the importance of rest and staying rooted in God.
+A new generation is rising with boldness to proclaim Jesus.
+Simple acts—like showing up in community spaces and making friends—can spark lasting change.
To learn more about Kaitlyn and Inspire Our Nation, please visit https://www.inspireournation.com/ or https://www.instagram.com/inspireournationofficial/.
Chapters
00:00 Welcome to the Sowers Podcast
02:14 Inspire Our Nation: A Vision for Youth
05:33 Challenges Facing Indigenous Youth
09:23 Expanding Inspire Our Nation
10:49 Building Partnerships with Local Churches
11:10 The Importance of Collaboration
14:21 Empowering the Next Generation
15:59 The Role of the Church in Youth Identity
18:29 Understanding Indigenous Youth Experiences
20:02 Effective Communication with Youth
22:19 Staying Rooted in Faith
24:27 Future Vision for Inspire Our Nation
25:33 Personal Journey of Faith
28:05 The Beauty of Jesus
29:32 Excitement for the Next Generation
31:10 First Steps for Engaging the Spiritually Curious
In this episode of The Sowers Podcast, Joel Auge and Matthew Grieve share the heart behind Royal Anthems, a national worship movement uniting Canadian songwriters to create fresh expressions of faith. Joel and Matthew open up about their personal journeys in music and ministry, the challenges faced by Canadian worship artists, and the power of collaborative songwriting to shape worship and strengthen church unity. This conversation explores how authentic art, rooted in community, can help elevate the voice of a generation across Canada.Joel Augé is a serial entrepreneur, artist, and songwriter who loves creating media that makes both social and spiritual impact. With years of experience founding and leading companies in the tech and creative industries, Joel also carries a deep passion for worship and innovation in the Canadian church.Matthew Grieve is a 5-time Canadian Gospel Male Vocalist of the Year who has sung in more than 1,500 churches across Canada. With over two decades of ministry and leadership experience, he has helped raise millions for charitable causes and now leads Royal Anthems, a movement uniting Canadian worship songwriters to strengthen the voice of the church.Takeaways+Joel and Matthew bring unique experiences from Christian music and ministry into the conversation.+Music has the power to transcend denominational lines and unify believers in worship.+Songs are more than melodies—they are declarations of faith that shape hearts and communities.+Worship is participatory, drawing congregations together in a shared experience.+Royal Anthems was formed to support and elevate Canadian worship artists.+Collaborative songwriting fosters connection, creativity, and community among worship leaders.+While Canada has a rich history of worship music, challenges remain in gaining global recognition.+Royal Anthems seeks to amplify Canadian voices and build a platform for their songs.+The future of worship in Canada is bright, rooted in collaboration and shared vision.To learn more about Royal Anthems, please visit https://www.royalanthems.com/ or https://www.instagram.com/royalanthems/.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Royal Anthems and Personal Backgrounds03:21 The Power of Music in Worship06:13 The Role of Lyrics and Songwriting08:52 The Importance of Community in Worship11:43 Challenges in Canadian Worship Music14:27 The Future of Worship Music in Canada20:13 The Shift in Worship Music Dynamics27:05 Royal Anthems: A Canadian Worship Movement34:20 Unity Through Songwriting Across Denominations39:35 Accessing Royal Anthems Music41:19 NEWCHAPTER
In this episode of The Sowers Podcast, Charles Karugu shares his journey of faith and the deep “holy discontent” that drew him from a business path into vocational ministry. From his early church involvement and life-changing junior high conference experience, to his leadership in youth ministry today, Charles reflects on the critical role of relational connections in reaching this generation. He discusses the updated Alpha Youth Film Series, the “Made For This” prayer initiative for local schools, and why youth are more spiritually open than we often think. Throughout the conversation, Charles highlights the need for prayer, community engagement, and eyes to see what God is already doing among the next generation.Charles Karugu serves as the Alpha Youth Associate at Alpha Canada, where he’s passionate about helping young people encounter the life-changing love of Jesus. Married to his better half, Ashley, and expecting their first child this December, Charles is more committed than ever to seeing a generation of youth lead with courage, compassion, and unshakable faith.Key Takeaways+Early church experiences and a pivotal junior high conference shaped Charles’s faith.+A sense of holy discontent led him to ministry instead of business.+Relational leadership is essential for effectively engaging youth.+Gen Z is spiritually curious and ready for meaningful conversations about faith.+The revamped Alpha Youth Film Series connects powerfully with today’s culture.+Youth are taking ownership of their faith and stepping into leadership.+Prayer is the foundation for youth ministry and school engagement.+The “Made For This” initiative mobilizes churches to pray for local schools.+God is at work in the next generation, and the church must pay attention.To learn more about Youth Alpha and the Youth Film Series, please visit https://alphacanada.org/youth/. To learn more about the 'Made For This' Initiative and sign-up, please visit https://wearemadeforthis.com/.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background03:26 Journey to Faith and Personal Transformation06:38 Navigating Post-High School Decisions09:37 Holy Discontent and Leadership Development12:26 Creating Relational Spaces for Youth15:26 Youth Culture and Spiritual Curiosity18:37 Empowering Youth as Change Agents22:59 Empowering Youth Ownership in Ministry25:30 The Alpha Youth Film Series: A New Approach31:29 Engaging the Next Generation with Alpha34:15 Made For This: A Call to Prayer and Action41:24 NEWCHAPTER
In this episode, the Kingdom Sexuality Ministry crew shares their journey of creating a ministry focused on healthy conversations about sexuality within a Christian context. They discuss their personal stories, the challenges they faced in finding resources, and the misconceptions surrounding sex. The conversation highlights the importance of open dialogue in marriages, the feedback they receive from their audience, and the impact their content has on both Christians and non-Christians. They express hope for future generations to engage with sexuality in a positive and informed manner, emphasizing the need for the church to support these discussions.
Kingdom Sexuality is led by Alana, Kyle, and Tiera—three friends with a shared passion for helping couples rediscover God’s design for intimacy within marriage.
What began as a podcast has grown into a growing community offering digital resources, honest conversations, and practical tools for couples to build thriving sex lives and marriages. From the Kingdom Sexuality Podcast to their Intimacy Club, their mission is simple: to help couples connect, communicate, and embrace sexual freedom the way God intended—with truth, grace, and biblical clarity.
Takeaways
+Finding wholesome Christian resources on sexuality can be challenging.
+Open conversations about sex can lead to healing and understanding in marriages.
+There is a significant gap in sexual education within the church.
+Common misconceptions about sex often stem from cultural narratives.
+Facilitating conversations about sex can help couples navigate their intimacy.
+Feedback from listeners often highlights the positive impact of their content.
+Criticism can arise from discussing sexuality openly, especially from those who misunderstand their intentions.
+Their podcast serves as an evangelistic tool, reaching both Christians and non-Christians.
+The hope is for future generations to engage with sexuality in a healthy and informed way.
To learn more about Kingdom Sexuality, please visit https://www.kingdomsexualityministry.com.
Chapters
00:00 Welcome to Kingdom Sexuality
00:47 The Origin Story of Kingdom Sexuality
03:57 Personal Journeys and Challenges
13:03 Identifying the Gap in Sexual Education
18:37 Common Misconceptions About Sex
20:55 Facilitating Conversations on Sexuality
24:54 Navigating Feedback: Surprises and Lessons
33:13 Impact Beyond Belief: Stories of Transformation
41:03 The Future of Conversations on Sexuality
43:41 Empowering the Next Generation: Church's Role in Sexuality Discussions
In this compelling conversation, Joshua Leventhal shares how his journey through faith and ministry has shaped his calling as a songwriter and artist. Raised between the prairies of Saskatchewan and Alberta, Joshua explores the impact of place, story, and scripture on his music. He discusses the role of lamentation in worship, the importance of authentic Christian art, and why songwriting should help us become more fully human without losing reverence. With a heart for mentoring artists and a vision to write songs that speak to believers and skeptics alike, Joshua invites listeners to rethink what it means to worship in truth and beauty.Joshua Leventhal is a Canadian worship artist and songwriter whose music lives at the intersection of reverence and raw honesty. With a decade in church ministry and eight of those years also as a professional artist, Joshua writes devotional music that engages deeply with scripture and human experience. He lives in Chilliwack, BC, with his wife, Kaitlyn, and their dog, Luna, and will be stepping into full-time music and songwriting mentorship in 2026.Takeaways:+Joshua's upbringing in a Christian home influenced his faith journey.+He discovered his passion for music during high school youth group.+His songwriting often reflects themes of lamentation and honesty.+Joshua aims to create music that resonates with the full spectrum of human experience.+He believes art should not compromise its integrity for utility.+Joshua's upcoming project focuses on engaging with biblical narratives.+He emphasizes the importance of authenticity in Christian art.+Joshua seeks to inspire others through his music and creativity.+He believes in the power of specificity in songwriting to create universal connections.+Joshua's vision includes collaborating with other artists to expand the reach of meaningful music.
To learn more about Joshua and his music, please visit https://www.joshualeventhal.com/.
🔥 Watch, share, and tag a fellow creative who needs to hear this!Chapters00:00 - Introduction to Joshua Leventhal02:15 - Early Life and Family Influences 05:30 - Unique Childhood Experiences 10:45 - Discovery of Music15:20 - Faith and Community 20:35 - Songwriting and Worship 27:50 - Current Projects and Future Vision 35:10 - Conclusion and Reflections
In this compelling conversation, Brent Ingersoll unpacks his personal journey of faith, from a childhood commitment to Christ to a life-changing injury that redirected him into ministry. He reflects on pivotal moments at Kingswood University and the crisis and renewal story of King's Church following a leadership failure. Brent shares powerful insights on leading a presence-driven church, the growing hunger for the gospel in Atlantic Canada, and the importance of unity and collaboration across denominations. He also explores leadership lessons from the One Conference and speaks with hope about a coming awakening in Canada. This is a story of pain, perseverance, and the Spirit’s power to rebuild and revive.
Brent Ingersoll is the Senior Pastor at Kings Church, a church with congregations throughout Atlantic Canada. He and his wife, Melanie, live in the Saint John, New Brunswick, area along with their three kids. Serving in the Atlantic region since 2006, Brent has a deep passion for revival in Canada and is committed to seeing the local church bring a transforming, life-giving presence across the country.
TAKEAWAYS
+Brent's early commitment to Jesus at age six shaped his faith journey.
+A basketball injury led Brent to discover his passion for music and worship.
+Brent's ministry evolved through a series of small, faithful decisions rather than a singular calling.
+Kings Church has a rich history dating back to 1982.+The church faced significant challenges, including a moral failure of a senior pastor in 2012.
+Brent's leadership during the crisis led to a renewal and growth in the church community.
+The church's focus shifted to being presence-driven, prioritizing the Holy Spirit's role.
+King's Church has planted multiple locations to meet the growing spiritual needs in Atlantic Canada.
+Brent believes in a coming societal awakening in Canada, prompting the need for more churches. There's always like this ingrained healthy or unhealthy bit of skepticism.
+The Lord has been pruning that attitude of contempt and criticism within the church.
+The Lord God is a God of generations and loves unity in the body.
+The time is over for churches to survive alone.
+The greatest challenge of Brent's leadership is to love the Lord with all his heart.
+Open your eyes, the fields are ripe for harvest.
To learn more about Brent and Kings Church, please visit https://kingschurch.cc/.
To learn more about One Conference, please visit https://onecon.ca/.
To learn more and listen to the Back Corner Podcast, please visit https://www.backcornerpodcast.com/.
CHAPTERS
00:00 Brent Ingersoll's Journey to Faith
07:07 The Origins of King's Church
15:26 Navigating Challenges and Renewal
19:13 The Response of Atlantic Canada to Church Growth
20:01 Skepticism and Flourishing in Atlantic Canada
22:38 The Emergence of One Conference
27:15 Unity and Breaking Down Barriers
29:38 Leadership Lessons and the Great Commandment
34:53 A Season of Harvest and Expectation
42:20 New Chapter
#TheSowersPodcast #BrentIngersoll #CanadianChurch #RevivalInCanada #PresenceDriven #ChurchLeadership #GospelMovements
In this engaging conversation, Domenic Ruso shares his journey from a Catholic upbringing in Montreal to becoming a pastor and church planter. He discusses the challenges and joys of navigating faith in a secular culture, the importance of listening to people's questions, and the need for the church to adapt its message for a modern audience. Ruso also reflects on his upcoming book, which aims to bridge the gap between secular curiosity and biblical truth, emphasizing the complexities of spirituality today. In this conversation, Domenic Ruso shares insights on engaging with non-believers, the importance of sermon preparation with audience awareness, and the reliance on the Holy Spirit in church leadership. He discusses the challenges of parenting in a secular culture while pastoring and reflects on the sweetness of Jesus in his journey. Ruso expresses hope for the future of the church in Canada, emphasizing the need for unity and adaptation in evangelistic efforts.
Domenic Ruso, Ph.D., is a pastor, author, and leader who believes that this is the best time to learn and engage new questions emerging from a secular culture. His passion for the church led him to the plant (the180.ca) in the greater Montreal region. Dom is constantly thinking of new ways to reflect on complex questions about faith, spirituality, truth, and how those intersect with faith in Jesus and the Bible. His graduate work in patristics and PhD in Reformation studies fuel his teaching in a way that seeks to stretch people to reimagine new paradigms that involve ongoing biblical engagement and the serious challenges of an emerging post-Christian culture.
TAKEAWAYS
+Church Planting Reveals God's Love
Dominic realized that his calling wasn’t just about serving others—it was God’s way of showing him how deeply he’s loved.
+Preaching Must Reach Both Skeptics and Saints
Effective teaching speaks to both long-time believers and spiritually curious seekers. That tension is where Jesus often met people.
+We Need New Paradigms for a Secular World
Today’s culture demands that we engage with real questions and resist recycled answers. Discipleship must be relational, not just informational.
+Listening Is Foundational to Discipleship
We can't lead people without first hearing their questions, doubts, and stories. Listening is the starting point for spiritual transformation.
+The Holy Spirit Is Essential for Ministry
Leadership isn’t about charisma—it’s about dependence. Dominic highlights how the Spirit leads through preaching, parenting, and pain.
+Creating Safe Spaces for Doubt Grows Faith
Churches need to be places where people can wrestle with their beliefs and not feel shamed for questioning.
+Unity Across Denominations Fuels Renewal
The future of the Canadian Church will depend on laying down egos and linking arms across traditions for a shared gospel mission.
To learn more about Domenic Ruso and his upcoming book, please visit http://www.domruso.com/. His book is also available for preorder at The book is also available for preorder on Amazon and through his publisher, Wipf and Stock.
To learn more about the church Domenic planted and now pastors, please visit https://theoneeighty.ca/.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Personal Journey
03:41 The Call to Pastoral Ministry
06:00 Transition to Church Planting
08:57 The Impact of Secular Culture
11:42 Writing the Book: Bridging the Gap
14:26 Surprises in Secular Engagement
17:25 Discipleship in a Secular Context
20:04 Teaching and Communication Strategies
22:40 Engaging with Non-Believers
24:29 Sermon Preparation and Audience Awareness
27:55 Reliance on the Holy Spirit in Leadership
30:48 Parenting and Pastoring in a Secular Culture
34:26 Experiencing the Sweetness of Jesus
36:49 Hope for the Church in Canada
41:16 New Chapter
In this conversation, Pastor Mike Cheon shares his remarkable journey from South Korea to Afghanistan, tracing a path that led from the stage as a K-Pop artist to the front lines of mission work in a war-torn nation. He reflects on the challenges and victories of ministering in Afghanistan, his transition to life and ministry in Canada, and his ongoing work with Afghan refugees and immigrant communities. Pastor Mike offers a compelling invitation to the Canadian church—urging believers to see immigration not as a barrier, but as a gospel opportunity to build bridges and embody the love of Christ. His story is a powerful reminder of God’s global mission and our call to serve with courage and compassion.Pastor Mike Cheon serves as the project manager for AFG Worship with Operation Mobilization and sits on the Advisory Council for the Global Ethnodoxology Network. A passionate church planter with Send Network, Mike holds a Master of Divinity from McMaster Divinity College.Before entering full-time ministry, Mike experienced early success in the music industry as a K-pop artist in 1999. Since then, he and his wife, Sunny, have been deeply engaged in ministry to Afghanistan, serving faithfully since 2003. Mike is passionate about cross-cultural worship, global missions, and equipping the Church to reflect the heart of God for the nations.TAKEAWAYS:+Pastor Mike's journey began in South Korea, where he experienced a revival movement.+He transitioned from a successful music career to missionary work in Afghanistan.+In Afghanistan, he faced significant challenges but found opportunities to share the gospel.+His time in Afghanistan was marked by deep faith and commitment to serving others.+After leaving Afghanistan, he continued his mission work in Canada, focusing on Afghan refugees.+He emphasizes the importance of community and support for immigrants in Canada.+Sharing the gospel can transform lives and communities.+Pastor Mike calls for the Canadian church to actively engage with and support immigrant communities. To learn more about Pastor Mike and his ministry, please visit https://afgworship.org/.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Pastor Mike's Journey01:56 From South Korea to Afghanistan: A Musical Calling08:22 Experiences in Afghanistan: Faith and Challenges20:13 Transitioning to Canada: New Beginnings and Missions28:00 Encouragement for the Canadian Church: Embracing Immigrants36:15 New Chapter#TheSowersPodcast #GlobalMission #ChurchInCanada #KPopToKingdom #AfghanMinistry #ImmigrantChurch
In this episode, Daniel Im returns to discuss his new book, "The Discipleship Opportunity." He challenges outdated church growth models and explores how today’s church can cultivate disciple-makers rather than passive consumers. Through relatable metaphors and personal insight, Daniel highlights the importance of creating environments where people can truly grow in faith. He also unpacks how the Holy Spirit shapes community, why grace and action must go hand-in-hand, and how even pain can deepen our discipleship journey.
Daniel Im is a pastor, Bible teacher, writer, and podcast host with a passion for the local church. He is the lead pastor of Beulah Alliance Church and the author of several books. His latest book is The Discipleship Opportunity: Leading a Great-Commission Church in a Post-Everything World. He lives in Edmonton, Alberta, with his wife, Christina, and their three children.
TAKEAWAYS
+We often teach the way we've been taught.
+There are more interested individuals than we realize.
+Churches should focus on teaching people to feed themselves.
+Discipleship should not just produce followers but disciple-makers.
+We need to challenge the assumption that growth equals faithfulness.
+Creating environments for learning can transform church dynamics. The church should focus on creating environments for the interested.
+Balancing action and grace is crucial in discipleship.
+The love of God is central to spiritual transformation.
+Discipleship involves inviting people into experiences with God.
For more information, visit danielim.com and connect with him on social media @danielsangi.
#TheSowersPodcast #DiscipleMaking #DanielIm #ChurchLeadership #SpiritualGrowth #christianpodcasts
Chapters
00:00 Welcome Back and Introduction to Discipleship
02:05 The Heart Behind 'The Discipleship Opportunity'
05:08 Challenging Old Assumptions in Discipleship
08:32 Identifying the Discipleship Opportunity
12:28 Practical Examples of Discipleship Approaches
17:35 Teaching Others to 'Cook' in Discipleship
22:06 Reactions to New Discipleship Methods
23:45 The Power of Organic Search and Community Engagement
25:28 The Role of the Holy Spirit in Transformation
27:05 Creating Environments for Spiritual Growth
29:55 Balancing Action and Grace in Faith
35:50 The Importance of Personal Encounter with God
38:49 Embracing Pain for Spiritual Growth
45:01 New Chapter
In this recap episode of the Sowers Podcast, Matt reflects on key insights from recent conversations with various guests, including Ezra Okoti, Melinda Estabrooks, Matt Menzel, Jared Brock, and Chris Price. Each guest shared valuable perspectives on church leadership, community, vulnerability, intimacy with Jesus, and the importance of trusting the gospel. The episode emphasizes the need for inclusion, the power of storytelling, and the significance of young people in the church's future.
TAKEAWAYS
+Ezra Okoti emphasizes the need for the Western church to learn from the African church.
+Repetition in ministry is crucial for lasting impact.
+Melinda Estabrooks highlights the importance of mental health and inclusion in the church.
+Intimacy with Jesus is foundational for effective ministry.
+Jared Brock calls for clarity in spiritual warfare and resisting cultural relativism.
+Chris Price stresses the importance of trusting the gospel seed over changing the message.
+Grief can accompany transitions, even when moving to good things.
+Young people are showing authentic faith and community engagement.
+Hospitality is central to gospel witness and community building.
+The kingdom of God is actively moving through faithful individuals in Canada.
Chapters
00:00 Welcome and Introduction to the Podcast Recap
02:17 Insights from Ezra Okoti: Learning from the African Church
06:08 Melinda Estabrooks: Adoption, Redemption, and Community
09:50 Matt Menzel: Intimacy with Jesus and Revival
13:38 Jared Brock: Writing Warfare and Cultural Discernment
17:15 Chris Price: Planting the Way Church and Trusting the Gospel
23:05 New Chapter
In this conversation, Chris Price shares his transformative journey into pastoral ministry, detailing his early life, the challenges of church planting, and the importance of community and teamwork in ministry. He reflects on the transitions he faced, the grief associated with leaving a familiar environment, and the power of the gospel in reaching people. Chris emphasizes the significance of trusting in God's plan and the importance of sowing the seed of faith widely, encouraging listeners to embrace their own journeys in faith and leadership.
TAKEAWAYS
+Chris's journey into pastoral ministry began at age 20.
+Transitioning to church planting involved significant discernment.
+Grief can accompany transitions, even positive ones.
+Leading as a team requires humility and a willingness to learn from others.
+The power of the gospel is essential in church planting.
+Trusting in God's plan is crucial for ministry success.
+Sowing the seed of faith widely is important for growth.
+The church's mission is to reach wanderers and those far from God.
Chris is one of the lead pastors at The Way Church Vancouver—a church he planted with two close friends in 2020. He is also the head of theology at The Way College. He holds an MA in Christian studies, and he has been in pastoral ministry for close to twenty years. Married to Diandra for 16 years with two children, Kaeden (13) and Mila (10), they live together in East Vancouver.
To learn more about Chris and The Way Church and The Way College, please visit https://www.thewaychurch.ca/ and https://www.thewaychurch.ca/college.
To explore some of Chris' books, please visit https://www.amazon.ca/Books-Chris-Price/s?rh=n%3A916520%2Cp_27%3AChris%2BPrice.
#pastoralministry #pastors #churchplanting #leadership #transitions #faith #journey #community #gospel #team #teamleadership #leadership #personalgrowth #churchdevelopment
Chapters
00:00 Chris Price's Journey to Pastoral Ministry
03:33 Growth and Development in Ministry
09:08 Navigating Transitions in Ministry
15:01 The Challenges of Church Planting
19:31 Leading as a Team in Ministry
26:11 Reflections on Leadership and Growth
34:17 The Power of the Gospel and Church Planting
In this conversation, Jared opens up about his journey of faith and calling as a writer and filmmaker. He shares how his high school struggles shaped his desire to lead people closer to Jesus through storytelling. Jared discusses the process of writing his latest book, "A Devil Named Lucifer," challenging misconceptions about the devil and calling Christians to ground their beliefs in Scripture. He critiques moral relativism, reflects on his personal growth in grace and humility, and emphasizes the need for hospitality and engagement with younger generations as practical ways to sow the gospel.
TAKEAWAYS
+Christian writing has historically influenced the church and society in profound ways.
+There is importance in planting seeds through writing that can impact future generations.
+If you feel called by God to do something, you should pursue it relentlessly.
+Understanding the devil's role is crucial in a materialist society.
+Moral relativism poses a significant danger to society.
+The character of Christ should guide our actions and decisions.
+ Engaging with young people can be vital for spiritual growth and understanding.
Jared Brock is an author, filmmaker, and storyteller with a unique gift for remembering remarkably specific details—thanks to his DNA-confirmed elevated episodic memory. He kissed his future wife in the summer before seventh grade, and today, they live in the UK with their two young sons. Jared, who is Canadian, and his wife—who is of Ethiopian and Finnish descent—are passionate about living simply. They don’t own cell phones, preferring an analog lifestyle marked by generous time margins and meaningful relationships. Through his books and films, Jared invites audiences to think deeply, live intentionally, and draw closer to Jesus.
Jared is the award-winning author of "A Year of Living Prayerfully" and "A God Named Josh" and the director of several films, including PBS's acclaimed Redeeming Uncle Tom with Danny Glover. His writing has appeared in Christianity Today, The Guardian, Smithsonian, USA Today, Huffington Post, Relevant, and TIME.
To learn more about Jared and explore his books and films, please visit https://jaredabrock.com/
#faith #writing #Christian #author #journey #influence #ministry #storytelling #literature, #filmmaking #spirituality #thedevil #moralrelativism #character #sowing #struggles #faith #youthministry
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:15 Journey to Faith and Early Experiences
04:11 High School Challenges and Growth
06:08 Finding a Calling in Writing and Filmmaking
09:04 The Writing Process and Challenges
13:44 Influence of Christian Writing on the Church
17:01 Literary Journey and Recent Works
21:27 The Journey of Writing and Personal Struggles
23:06 Exploring the Devil: Myths and Realities
27:08 The Importance of Understanding the Devil Today
30:00 Moral Relativism and the Materialist Worldview
32:03 Personal Reflections on Accusation and Adversity
36:47 Living Out the Character of Christ
40:16 Sowing the Gospel in Everyday Life
In this episode, Matt Menzel shares his journey of faith, emphasizing intimacy with Jesus, surrender, and the goodness of God. He unpacks the role of the Holy Spirit in preaching, the need for repentance in church life, and the call to create a culture of encounter. Matt also reflects on revival, abiding in Christ, and how deep surrender leads to lasting transformation.
Matt is the lead pastor of Centre Church in downtown Vancouver. He and his wife, Melissa, are completely caught up in a vision for the renewal of Jesus' church in their city. Matt's greatest joy is to experience the manifest presence of Jesus in daily life and to see Jesus do the things that only He can do!
TAKEAWAYS
+Intimacy with Jesus is rooted in deep surrender, and the fear of the Lord is essential for true intimacy.
+ Intimacy impacts all aspects of life and ministry.
+ We want to be the church pursuing revival and intimacy with God.
+Creating a culture of encounter is essential for church growth.
+Repentance is a key aspect of spiritual renewal.
+Jesus invites us to experience His presence daily.
+ It's important to ask Jesus what He loves about us.
+ Ministry can be challenging, but Jesus is always accessible.
To learn more about Matt and Centre Church, please visit https://centrechurch.ca/.
#intimacy #spiritualjourney #surrender #goodness #church #leadership #faith #friendship #spiritualawakening #transformation #eldership #revival #HolySpirit #preaching #culture #encounter #change #abiding #repentance #jesus
Chapters
00:00 Journey of Transformation
09:36 The Path to Surrender
15:41 Revelation of God's Goodness
20:41 Pursuing Revival and Intimacy with God
28:18 Creating a Culture of Encounter
37:51 The Importance of Abiding and Repentance
In this conversation, Melinda Estabrooks shares her profound journey of faith, adoption, and the development of her voice in Christian broadcasting. She reflects on her upbringing in a missionary family, the challenges of identity as an adoptee, and the importance of community and prayer in her life. Melinda discusses her work in amplifying diverse voices and addressing mental health issues within the church, emphasizing the need for authentic conversations and belonging.
TAKEAWAYS
+Melinda was adopted into a missionary family, shaping her faith from a young age.
+She experienced a period of distancing from Jesus during her teenage years, but the prayers of her parents played a crucial role in her return to faith.
+Melinda's journey of finding her birth mother was a significant moment of redemption.
+There is power in storytelling to connect and heal.
+Belonging is a universal need transcending cultural boundaries.
+Loneliness is a common experience among many individuals.
+Creating belonging is essential for those who don't attend church.
+Understanding diverse needs can strengthen community ties.
Melinda is the creator, host, and executive producer of the Canadian women’s talk show, See Hear Love. Launched in 2016, See Hear Love is a welcoming community and multimedia platform that offers a faith-based TV show, podcast, interactive Instagram presence, and dynamic speaking events and conferences across Canada. See Hear Love values belonging, storytelling, courage, authenticity, inclusion, and faith in Jesus.
Melinda is also the author and curator of the book "Always Know," a collection of short stories from See Hear Love guests who share their personal experiences of faith, perseverance, and hope.
For the past 25 years, Melinda has worked in broadcasting, journalism, PR and marketing, leadership facilitation, advocacy, fundraising, and motivational speaking around the world.
Melinda speaks across Canada, sharing her story of adoption, belonging, redemption, and reunion, reminding women and men that they are SEEN, HEARD, and deeply LOVED by God!
She loves being a wife to Chris and a ‘bonus mom’ to Nathan and Sophie, traveling across Canada and the world, connecting amazing women together, and laughing!
Her favourite encouragement to women is, ‘Today is not your forever!’
Instagram @melinda_estabrooks @seehearlove
Facebook: Melinda Estabrooks
To learn more about Melinda and See Hear Love, please visit https://seehearlove.com/.
CHAPTERS
00:00 Melinda's Journey of Faith and Adoption
18:38 The Impact of Adoption on Identity
33:24 Developing a Voice in Christian Broadcasting
#faith #adoption #identity #Christian #broadcasting #mentalhealth #empowerment #diversity #community #prayer #storytelling
In this conversation, Ezra Okoti shares his journey from Kenya to Canada, reflecting on his transformative encounter with the gospel, his call to ministry, and the cultural insights he has gained along the way. He explores the importance of community, the differences between Western and African church fellowship, and the role of the Holy Spirit in church growth. Ezra also unpacks the power of repetition in ministry, the challenges of leadership, and the rise of young adult worship movements, emphasizing the need for simplicity, authenticity, and deep connection in worship.
Ezra is the Executive Pastor of Multiplication at Northview Community Church in Abbotsford, BC, where he oversees church planting partnerships across Canada and global missions. Originally from Kenya, Ezra brings years of experience in church planter assessment, preaching coaching, and leadership development. He lives in Abbotsford with his wife and four children and is passionate about seeing the gospel preached across Canada. He also serves as an advisor to City to City Canada and leads church revitalization efforts nationally.
TAKEAWAYS
+The Western Church deeply needs authentic community—and it has much to learn from the African Church’s example.
+The secret sauce in ministry is patience and repetition.
+The Spirit of God is the one who transforms the heart and builds the Church.
+The pastor's role is to care for people and proclaim the gospel.
+Young adults are gathering to worship without the need for elaborate productions, as simplicity and authenticity in worship resonate with them.
+Generational differences in worship can create challenges but also an opportunity to learn and grow together.
Available wherever you get your podcasts.
To learn more about Ezra and Northview Community Church, please visit https://northview.org/.
To learn more about City to City Canada, please visit https://citytocity.ca/.
#faith #journey #gospel #ministry #Africa #Canada #community #church #fellowship #culturalinsights #Christianlife #ministry #repetition #churchleadership #youngadults #worship #community #hope #joy #culturalchallenges #faith
Chapters
00:00 Ezra's Journey to Faith
08:09 From Kenya to Canada: A Missionary's Path
15:44 The Call to Serve: Embracing Ministry in the West
19:56 Cultural Reflections: Lessons from the African Church
24:44 The Power of Repetition in Ministry
29:07 Maintaining Hope and Joy in Leadership
36:12 The Rise of Young Adult Worship
41:07 Challenges of Worship Across Generations
