Join us for an inspiring episode of the Dallas Metro Podcast as we welcome special guest Shawn Sanseverino, the lead pastor at Grace Place in Dallas. Shawn shares his remarkable journey from his roots in San Jose, California, to his transformative years in Phoenix, and ultimately to his calling in Dallas.

Married for 24 years and father to a 13-year-old daughter, Shawn brings a wealth of personal and ministerial experience to the conversation. His early years were shaped by a move from California to Arizona, where he joined the Master’s Commission, a discipleship program that ignited his passion for ministry through scripture memorization, soul-winning, and hands-on training. Over 12 years, Shawn’s involvement in the program laid a foundation for his lifelong commitment to serving others, a commitment that continues to define his leadership today.

Shawn’s path led him to Grace Place, formerly known as Bethel, where he transitioned from a familiar face within the congregation to its lead pastor.

This episode delves into the complexities of pastoral succession, a topic Shawn navigates with wisdom drawn from the book Next. He recounts the smooth yet intentional transition with his outgoing pastor, emphasizing the importance of preparation, transparency, and board involvement. Shawn’s insights are invaluable for anyone in ministry, as he discusses the necessity of an exit strategy, emergency plans, and financial foresight to ensure a church’s longevity. His candid reflections on the challenges of identity in ministry and the need for new vision to reach future generations offer a fresh perspective on leadership that transcends the pulpit.

The conversation also highlights Dallas Metro’s mission to serve the community, particularly children and families facing trauma and dysfunction. Shawn passionately advocates for the ministry’s trench work, emphasizing the need for facilities to support this vital outreach. As Dallas Metro prepares to break ground on a debt-free facility, Shawn calls on listeners to partner in this vision, underscoring the transformative impact of a space where lives are changed.

Visit dallasmetro.org to learn more about the “All In” campaign and how you can support this mission. Tune in for a heartfelt discussion on faith, leadership, and the power of community, and don’t miss Shawn’s challenge to trust God’s plan for every season of ministry. Be sure to like and subscribe for more Dallas Metro podcasts.

You can reach Shawn via email @ ssanseverino@icloud.com

Join us for Episode #72 of the Dallas Metro Podcast, where we welcome back Steve Roemerman, a founding board member of Dallas Metro, for his second appearance on the show. In this conversation with Pastor Clay, Steve shares personal anecdotes about his family, including his two children and five grandchildren, and reflects on his enduring commitment to Dallas Metro’s mission. The episode dives into the organization’s early days, sparked by an unlikely partnership facilitated by mutual friend Lee Lebsack, which blossomed into a lifelong friendship and a shared dedication to bringing hope to Dallas’s inner-city communities.

Steve discusses the profound impact of Dallas Metro, emphasizing the analytics that reveal a remarkable return on investment: for as little as $165–$200, the organization can permanently change someone’s life trajectory. Unlike temporary aid, Dallas Metro focuses on long-term transformation, addressing the stark reality of Dallas’s child poverty rate, which is twice the national average. Through stories like a teenager seeking food for his family during Christmas, Steve highlights the urgent need for a new facility to expand their capacity to store food and serve more families, creating hope where it’s needed most.

The episode underscores the power of hope, rooted in the belief that change is possible and individual choices matter. Steve connects Dallas Metro’s work to biblical principles, citing Proverbs 13 and Colossians 1:6, and shares the vision for a debt-free new building to amplify their impact. Listeners are invited to partner with Dallas Metro by visiting metro.org and joining the “All In” campaign to support the $2 million first phase of construction. Tune in to hear Steve’s compelling call to action and learn how you can help bring hope to the next generation in Dallas’s inner city. Don’t miss this episode—subscribe, share, and be part of our mission to give hope to the hopeless.

Join us for Episode #71 of the Dallas Metro Podcast, featuring special guest Portia Allen. In this engaging conversation, Portia shares her journey as a faith-driven leader, wife, and mother, offering insights into her work with Imago Dei Consulting and her deep connection to the Dallas Metro community. Connect with Portia at porshaallen.com and support Dallas Metro’s mission at metro.org/allin.

Portia Allen, married to Clinton for nearly 16 years and mother to three boys, brings a wealth of experience from her lifelong ties to Dallas. Raised with a strong foundation in faith, influenced by her father and church community, she transitioned from her maiden name, Butler, to Allen, reflecting her personal growth. Through Imago Dei Consulting, a for-profit company rooted in the belief that all are image bearers of God, Portia helps churches and faith organizations foster diversity, belonging, and identity. Her work emphasizes invitation and influence, encouraging leaders to build inclusive communities grounded in faith.

Portia’s connection to Dallas Metro is rooted in shared values of transformation and outreach. She highlights the organization’s impact on families and communities, describing it as “good soil” for sowing hope and change. In this episode, she discusses the importance of intentional relationships, drawing from her experiences to inspire listeners to enlarge their circle of love. Portia also supports Dallas Metro’s ongoing efforts to build new facilities, urging viewers to contribute to a mission that empowers individuals to embrace their identity in Christ. Tune in for a conversation filled with wisdom and inspiration. Be sure to like and subscribe so you'll never miss another Dallas Metro Podcast.