In this first conversation, Tracy Reynolds and Chris Maxwell welcome Dr. John Farquhar Plake, Chief Innovation Officer at the American Bible Society. John begins by sharing his personal journey—more than three decades of ministry as a pastor, missionary, professor, and researcher—and how those experiences shaped his calling to connect research with ministry. Listeners hear about his heart for innovation, discipleship, and equipping leaders to understand how people grow in Christ. The episode closes with a crucial turn: John unpacks current cultural realities and what people today actually believe about life, faith, and Scripture. His insights as editor-in-chief of the annual State of the Bible research offers a wake-up call for leaders seeking to shepherd well in a rapidly changing world.

https://www.americanbible.org/the-mission/leadership/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjohnplake/

https://x.com/johnfplake

https://www.amazon.com/Missionary-Expatriate-Effectiveness-Competencies-Missionaries/dp/9004313818/ref=sr_1_1?crid=20J9341IW9URP&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.f_KlDuBrPkFNli_9v3VeQg.Y9EkCgabou2X_lvJXm64CM1eljM3LExYbic6yOX-JgA&dib_tag=se&keywords=john+plake&qid=1759573391&s=books&sprefix=john+plake%2Cstripbooks%2C96&sr=1-1

In the second part of their conversation with Monte Drenner, Tracy and Chris continue exploring the practical ways faith brings strength and resilience. Monte offers wisdom for leaders, pastors, and anyone walking through hard times. His words are gentle but direct—acknowledging the struggles of life while pointing toward God’s peace. This episode is more than an interview; it’s an invitation to pause, to breathe, and to believe that healing is possible.

https://www.mtccounseling.com/about-us

Sacred Space book - https://www.mtccounseling.com/thescaredspace

Counselor, life coach, and author Monte Drenner joins Tracy and Chris for a meaningful discussion about hope and healing. In this first episode, Monte shares his story and his calling to walk alongside people in their struggles. He talks about the realities pastors and leaders face today—the long journeys, the deep pain, the hidden disappointments—and how faith offers peace in the midst of it all. Listening to Monte reminds us that even when the weight feels heavy, God’s hope and presence are greater.

https://www.mtccounseling.com/about-us

Sacred Space book - https://www.mtccounseling.com/thescaredspace