Rusty George Podcast

Being a solo pastor is no walk in the park. Gary Mcintosh knows that firsthand and wants to help you manage the burdens of solo pastoring. That’s why he wrote, The Solo Pastor: Understanding and Overcoming the Challenges of Leading a Church Alone.It was great getting to trade stories with Gary about our time as solo pastors, but it was even better to hear his heart behind the book and how he’s working to help resource pastors. This episode is not just for the pastor or church leader but also the small business owner or anyone doing solo life.If you’re running solo and looking for an extra hand, check out BELAY Solutions.  BELAY is a great resource to consider if you're looking for virtual assistant services, bookkeeping, or social media management. Special thanks to BELAY for sponsoring this week’s episode! ResourcesConnect with Gary:@drgmcintosh on TwitterFacebookLinkedInChurchgrowthnetwork.comThe Solo Pastor: Understanding and Overcoming the Challenges of Leading a Church Alone by Gary L. McIntoshAmazonBake

“Should we keep asking for forgiveness? Rusty, what are you talking about? Isn’t that a commandment?”Well, to answer that question, I sat down with Ben Connelly and it was incredible getting his perspective on it. We talked about his new book Reading the Bible, Missing the Gospel and dug into some of the ways that we may make scripture a lot more about us than we do about the God we’re reading about. If you’ve ever wondered about this question, I definitely encourage you to listen to our conversation and share this episode with somebody else as well.Special thanks to BELAY Solutions for sponsoring this week!HighlightsAbout Ben Connelly - 3:03Early life in TexasHow going into ministry saved Ben.Reading the Bible, Missing the Gospel  - 6:31The process of writing this book and the inspiration behind itReading scripture for what we want rather than what God is saying through it.Viewing scripture through a different lens - 17:18Three lenses to view scripture through.What does Ben actually mean when he tell us to s

I got to have an honest conversation with Becket Cook. Becket is a speaker and author who travels around to share his story of redemption and tackle the topic of homosexuality. I’ve gotten to know Becket over the years. Recently, he came to Real Life Church to speak. I knew that I had to have him share his experience with you as well. Becket is open about his journey through being same-sex attracted and his encounter with God that set him on a new path. And I know there may be some of you who have family members and friends... maybe it's you who is trying to figure out what the truth is around identity and sexuality and where God stands on it. I think you're gonna be blessed by what Becket has to say, so listen to our conversation and feel free to share it with someone you know.Special thanks to BELAY Solutions for sponsoring this week’s episode! HighlightsBecket’s Beginnings - 3:44Growing up in TexasWrestling with his identity and sexual orientationBecket’s Encounter with Jesus - 14:58Wrestling with the mean

We've got something new! We are taking the best moments from our guests on the podcast and putting them together in case you missed them! This month we have some great tidbits from Brian Dodd, Kyle Costello, Sean McDowell and Justin Knowles. Enjoy the best of Leading Simple for January 2023. Special thanks to BELAY Solutions for sponsoring this week’s episode! Did you know that over 6 billion people around the world don't know Jesus? Even more staggering, 3 billion have never even heard His name. Good News Productions International (GNPI) is on a mission to change that by harnessing the power of media to help people discover, know, and follow Jesus.For decades, GNPI has been dedicated to spreading the Good News globally, and now they're launching an ambitious initiative: Mission15. The goal? To share the gospel over one billion times in the next few years. You can be a part of this bold mission by visiting mission15.global or gnpi.org.By pledging just $15 a month—less than the cost of a couple of lattes—you c

If you've ever wondered what the deal is with kids today, then you aren’t alone. I’ve had parents ask me questions like, "How come they are so sensitive? Why are they so lacking in motivation? Why do they struggle so much with relationships"? Well, it just so happens they are dealing with anxiety and mental illness that we have never experienced in our lifetime.I’m a dad, and I know that the teen years can be particularly rough on us as parents and on our kids. That’s why I’m glad Justin Knowles came on the podcast this week. Justin Knowles is a pastor who works in student ministry and elementary-age ministry at a very large church in Southern California. Whether you’re a parent, a youth pastor, or just someone who spends time around kids and youth, Justin’s insights will shed light on what’s happening, and how you can support the young people in your life. And I’d love to hear from you: What was the most helpful thing you learned after listening? Let me know in the comments below!Special thanks to BELAY Solu

I got to have a fantastic conversation with Dr. Sean McDowell. Sean is an educator and speaker, the son of evangelist Josh McDowell, and he is passionate about helping people view all areas of life through a Biblical worldview. Sean shared so many great insights about some major questions the world is asking when it comes to why faith matters.If you've ever wondered how to articulate your faith or answer the questions your kids are asking about the beliefs you've always had but now they don't. Or, if you've ever wondered what Iron Man has to do with Jesus, then trust me. This episode is for you. I'd love to hear your thoughts on our conversation. You can join in and leave a comment here: https://pastorrustygeorge.com/kLBsySpecial thanks to BELAY Solutions for sponsoring this week's episode! Did you know that over 6 billion people around the world don't know Jesus? Even more staggering, 3 billion have never even heard His name. Good News Productions International (GNPI) is on a mission to change that by harnes

It’s good to have Kyle Costello on the podcast this week. He’s a pastor, speaker, and church planter. Kyle grew up in the Mormon church as a sixth-generation Mormon, so he’s well-equipped to answer these questions and more. Kyle and I sit down to talk about his journey to faith and the upcoming church plant Kyle is building. It’s an incredible conversation, and I think you’re gonna learn a lot from Kyle. I know I did.Special thanks to BELAY Solutions for sponsoring this week's episode!ResourcesKyle Costello's Instagram Did you know that over 6 billion people around the world don't know Jesus? Even more staggering, 3 billion have never even heard His name. Good News Productions International (GNPI) is on a mission to change that by harnessing the power of media to help people discover, know, and follow Jesus.For decades, GNPI has been dedicated to spreading the Good News globally, and now they're launching an ambitious initiative: Mission15. The goal? To share the gospel over one billion times in the next few

My next guest needs no introduction. It’s always a great time when Brian Dodd is on the podcast. Brian’s got a knack for pulling leadership lessons from sports, which is one of the reasons we get along so well. You can hear some of his past episodes here, and here. And this time around was no exception. It was incredible hearing his insights from the football playoffs, the incredible team coaches, and Dolly Parton?Well, you’ll just have to listen to the episode for that last one.Special thanks to BELAY Solutions for sponsoring this week’s episode!ResourcesEpisode TranscriptBrian Dodd’s WebsiteGridiron Genius by Michael LombardiThe Cubs Way by Tom VerducciThe Score Takes Care of Itself by Bill WalshLegacy by James KerrHow to Beat a Broken Game: The Rise of the Dodgers in a League on the Brink by Pedro MouraBrian Dodd’s Blog Post on Dolly Parton2021: The Year in Leadership by Brian Dodd Did you know that over 6 billion people around the world don't know Jesus? Even more staggering, 3 billion have never even hea

Christmas movies are great, and of course, I have my favorites. If you missed last week’s podcast episode with Dan Angel, we discussed what makes a Christmas movie legendary. But regardless of who you ask, there is one that seems to be on everyone’s top five list, and this Christmas at Real Life, we dove into the themes behind this movie and how they can change our outlook on life.If you’ve had a rough year or question your purpose, please take the time to listen to this message. God has so much more for your life than the lies you’ve told yourself, and with Him, you can live a truly wonderful life. Did you know that over 6 billion people around the world don't know Jesus? Even more staggering, 3 billion have never even heard His name. Good News Productions International (GNPI) is on a mission to change that by harnessing the power of media to help people discover, know, and follow Jesus.For decades, GNPI has been dedicated to spreading the Good News globally, and now they're launching an ambitious initiative

My friend Dan Angel is back on the podcast again, and it’s an honor to have him. It made sense to have such a great film producer and writer back on the podcast and this time, we’re talking about some of the greatest Christmas movies of all time. Take a listen as Dan and I go through our favorite Christmas movies and dissect what makes a truly wonderful film for the season. It was a great time recording this episode, so I hope you have just as much fun listening to it. And be sure to share your favorite Christmas movies with me in the comments below. Happy holidays from me and the Leading Simple team!HighlightsA little about Dan - 2:44His early life in Orange CountyHow he started making moviesWhat Dan and Daniel have in commonFezziwig Studios - 10:13Pitching Rescued by RubyBuilding Fezziwig StudiosThe best Christmas movies of all time - 17:42Dan’s take on It’s a Wonderful LifeDan and Rusty share their top picks for Christmas movies.ResourcesEpisode TranscriptFezziwig Studios website Did you know that over 6 b

Today’s episode is a real treat. I had the chance to talk with Cheryl Ladd. You may recognize that name from several movies & TV shows, including the 1970s hit Charlie’s Angels. We sat down to talk about how she navigated through Hollywood as a young actress and how she landed her iconic role in the show.We also had the chance to dig a little deeper as Cheryl shared about her experience with a marriage ending, as well as how she found a better work-life balance and how she came full circle to faith. Cheryl’s story is incredible. Whether you’re a fan of Charlie’s Angels, an entertainer yourself, or someone who’s figuring out how to fight workaholism, I can say that there’s something for you in this episode. HighlightsHow Cheryl Ladd got her Start – 2:08Early beginnings in South DakotaHer faith backgroundFrom singing in a band to acting in HollywoodFinding Balance – 16:22Cheryl lands Charlie’s AngelsOn the hamster wheel of successFinding her purposeA New Direction – 31:50Defining herself post-Angels.Cheryl

It's the season for giving! The Christmas season has always been a time to reflect on our own sense of generosity. Generosity is something that my guest, John Rinehart, knows a little something about. John Rinehart is an author who found in his early working days that there was more to life than working to accumulate as much as possible. He had seen God’s faithfulness in his own life and took a leap of faith thanks to his wife that would change the trajectory of his entire life.John and I sit down to talk about the Gospel Patrons and what it looks like to develop the gift of giving in ourselves. John is a fantastic guy, and I think you'll enjoy our conversation. So listen in, and let me know what you think in the comments below.ResourcesEpisode TranscriptGospel Patrons (book) by John RinehartInstagram: @GospelPatronsFacebook: @GospelPatronsWebsite: www.gospelpatrons.org Did you know that over 6 billion people around the world don't know Jesus? Even more staggering, 3 billion have never even heard His name. Go

This week’s episode was a dream come true for me. I had the chance to talk with Crawford Loritts, a pastor and evangelist with an incredible legacy.  Crawford also happens to be the author of one of the best leadership books I’ve ever read (you can see some of my other leadership book recommendations here), and we get the chance to talk a bit about it as well. We talked through his experience leading Fellowship Bible Church for 15 years, processed the effects of deconstruction on the church, and how we can impact the culture around us as Christian leaders.  I know you're going to appreciate what he has to say, whether you're a church leader or a leader in a church.Special thanks to Serve.HQ for sponsoring this week’s episode!HighlightsSimplicity and Clarity - 1:34Crawford Lorrits’ backgroundBecoming a cheerleader for leaders.Why simplicity and clarity are the keys to great leadership.Church & Culture - 13:09Current trends in the churchCrawford shares points of pride and heartbreak in the churchGetting bac

I had heard incredible things about Tiana Spencer as a pastor, speaker, and teacher. And I’ve got to say, I learned so much from her in our conversation. We got to talk about her love of teaching scripture and the encouragement she found to pursue it. She shared how she developed a desire for a more holistic faith. And I was moved to hear her talk about her passion for creating an emotionally healthy church. Maybe you’re wrestling with your calling or your identity. Or you’ve experienced some traumas that you’re working through. No matter where you fall on that spectrum, I think you’ll love hearing my conversation with Tiana.Special thanks to Serve HQ for sponsoring this week’s episode!HighlightsAbout Tiana Spencer - 2:47Tiana’s start leading bible study at 14Finding a starting point if you’re new to scriptureWhat Tiana’s reading that’s impacting herHow Tiana and her husband navigate ministry together.Connecting with God - 12:59Tiana shares how her family connects with GodFinding anchors to stay connected wit

We’ve had some great guests come on the podcast to talk about their experiences with church planting, like Carl Kuhl, Tim Celek, and Joseph Barkley. You can listen to their episodes here, here, and here respectively. And we’re keeping that train going with our guest today.Clint Dupin co-leads Eastown Church with his wife in San Jose, California. He gets honest with me about his experience going from a mega church to planting a church, leading that church plant during the pandemic, and the wisdom he’s gained along the way. Special thanks to Serve HQ for sponsoring this week’s episode!About Clint Dupin - 01:44Clint’s ministry backgroundClint shares about “the broken road” that led him to ministry.Highlights and Lowlights  - 13:53Planting a church: How do you know whether it’s from God or you?The highlights and lowlights Clint’s experiencedClint keeps it real - 30:00 Clint shares his COVID experience as a church planter.What it’s like co-pastoring with your spouse.ResourcesEpisode TranscriptEastown ChurchThere a

I had the chance to sit down with Shawn Lovejoy, an incredible leader and former pastor who shifted his focus from vocational ministry to developing a coaching program sure to change the lives of so many leaders. Shawn was coached by Dan Reiland, a guest on the podcast (you can listen to his episode here), and is now coaching pastors and business leaders on how they can make the days between their Sundays even better.Shawn and I chat about how to have hard conversations with staff and what the best coaching clients he's taken on all have in common. Shawn also digs into his books Be Mean About The Vision and Building A Killer Team Without Killing Yourself or Your Team. You won’t want to miss this episode full of incredible insights.Special thanks to Serve.HQ for sponsoring this week’s episode! Did you know that over 6 billion people around the world don't know Jesus? Even more staggering, 3 billion have never even heard His name. Good News Productions International (GNPI) is on a mission to change that by harn

It’s not often that we talk politics on this podcast, so I know this will be controversial. I wanted to sit down with Theresa Brennan to help make sense of the overturning of Roe v. Wade, what it means for us, and how to better understand the variety of perspectives on this issue. I’m grateful that she took the time to sit down with me and process not just what happened, but what our responsibility is now as Christians. Take a listen to our conversation with an open heart and an open mind.Special thanks to Serve.HQ for sponsoring this episode!Highlights About Theresa and the Right to Life League - 2:21Theresa shares about how she got started.The beginnings of the Right to Life League.Making Sense of Current Events - 5:16Understanding the overturning of Roe v Wade.Answering some of the biggest questions surrounding abortion.The spiritual implications around abortion.Practical Steps - 19:41The best way churches can support pro-life initiatives.Creating a healthy community for post-abortive women.What are the be

How can you prepare for sabotage?What does it look like to build resilience as a leader in a time of conflict and controversy? Tod Bolsinger explores these questions and more in his book Tempered Resilience, which I loved. Now, I hadn’t had the chance to meet Tod before we recorded this episode, but I learned so much from his input into how people can lead through uncertainty. Tod is a seminary professor, author, and leads a leadership coaching and consulting firm dedicated to helping faith leaders thrive as change leaders. That passion is evident in our conversation, and I’m so glad we had a chance to sit down together.Let me know in the comments how you’ve been leading your church or your family through the unfamiliar. I’d love to hear some of your stories.Special thanks to Serve HQ for sponsoring this week’s episode!HighlightsAbout Tod Bolsinger - 1:26How Tod started in ministryThe differences in ministry when Tod started versus now.Digging into Tod’s books - 15:45Tod asks the question: how do you lead whe

Drew Moore is my guest this week, and I’m so glad to have him on the podcast. Drew is the lead pastor of Canyon Ridge Church, a church in Las Vegas that has an incredible legacy. The founding pastor is my friend and friend of RLC, Mike Breaux (you can hear Mike on the podcast here). Watching Drew's journey, I can say that I've learned so much from him about what it means to make disciples and I hope you'll appreciate his insights too.Drew and I talk about his journey becoming lead pastor, leading a church through a transition to a new direction, and practical ways to make discipleship simple for your church.HighlightsAbout Drew Moore - 1:55Drew’s backgroundWhat it’s like leading a church in Las Vegas, NevadaForging a new path - 10:39Following Mike Breaux and leading Canyon Ridge in a fresh direction.Drew’s goal and how his church got there.How to make disciples in this day and age - 21:48How to approach discipleship with your average, first time attender.Assumptions we make about the impact of a weekend servi

If you've been listening to the podcast for a while, then you've heard me speak to some incredible pastors who have led their churches through different tragedies and transitions. Navigating through a crisis is no easy feat. I know on our end, we've done some things right and we've done some things wrong. But through it all, we've had these experiences that we don't feel like we should keep to ourselves. That's why I’m grateful to Fred Gray, the executive pastor at Real Life Church. Fred and I designed a course called Leading Through Crisis. Our hope is to equip you with ways to lead through a crisis as healthily as possible, so you don’t have to become one.Now, I’d love for you to check out the course. There are so many great resources available including how to address a national loss, how to work with the press, and the preventative measures you should take before a crisis ever happens. If you’re curious and want a deeper dive into why we created this course, join my conversation with Fred Gray as we talk