Gird Up! Podcast

SummaryIn this episode of the Gird Up Podcast, host Charlie Ungemach speaks with Shawn Herkstroeter, who shares his journey from teaching to his current role at Grace in Action. They discuss the importance of teaching, coaching, and leadership in youth development, as well as the challenges of maintaining work-life balance in ministry. Shawn emphasizes the need for spiritual, emotional, and physical health, and the significance of having margin in life to prevent burnout. The conversation provides valuable insights into the roles of educators and leaders in shaping the lives of young people. In this conversation, Charlie Ungemach and Shawn Herkstroeter explore various aspects of spiritual, physical, and emotional health. They discuss the importance of intentional prayer, the dynamics of family devotions, and the significance of maintaining physical wellness through proper nutrition and exercise. The conversation also delves into emotional health, emphasizing the need for a growth mindset and the impact of relationships on overall well-being. Throughout, they share personal experiences and practical tips for integrating these practices into daily life. In this conversation, Charlie Ungemach and Shawn Herkstroeter explore the importance of understanding relationships, particularly through literature, and the challenges faced in the teaching profession. They discuss the impact of Christian education on shaping the next generation and the role of coaching in supporting teachers and staff. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of finding purpose in teaching and navigating the challenges of ministry, while also highlighting the need for emotional and spiritual health in educators.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Support for Girt Up Podcast01:02 Shawn Herkstroeter's Background and Transition to Grace in Action02:55 Teaching Experience and Philosophy05:47 The Role of Coaching in Youth Development08:46 Leadership and the Principalship11:57 Work-Life Balance in Ministry14:55 The Importance of Margin in Life17:58 Spiritual, Emotional, and Physical Health20:59 Practical Applications of Spiritual Health26:45 Navigating Spiritual Practices32:55 Intentional Prayer and Reflection39:04 Couples and Family Devotions41:44 Physical Health and Wellness49:15 Emotional Health and Growth Mindset52:27 Understanding Relationships Through Literature54:52 The Challenges of Teaching and Teacher Retention56:43 The Impact of Christian Education01:00:00 The Role of Coaching in Education01:07:10 Finding Purpose in Teaching and Coaching01:14:00 Navigating Challenges in Ministry and LifeGrace in Action Coaching Options: https://grace-in-action.com/building-healthy-individuals/Shawn's Favorite Links: https://www.girdupministries.com/herk-favoritesGird Up Links:https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=tbCa0SOiluVl8UFxhttps://www.instagram.com/girdup_be_a_man/https://www.girdupministries.com

SummaryIn this episode of the Gird Up Podcast, Charlie Ungemach and guest Zach Flunker tackle the importance of Christian sex education, both in parenting and marriage. They discuss the cultural taboos surrounding sex, the need for age-appropriate conversations with children, and the vital role parents play in teaching boundaries, preventing abuse, and modeling healthy relationships. The episode also explores marital intimacy, communication, and the call to glorify God in all aspects of sexuality and family life.Chapters00:00 – Intro & Podcast Purpose01:06 – Why Christian Sex Ed Matters02:54 – Challenges Parents Face05:55 – Cultural Shifts & Sex Taboos09:11 – Freedom vs. Silence on Sex11:55 – God’s Design for Sex15:14 – Risks of Avoiding the Topic17:54 – Marriage & Honest Dialogue25:53 – Knowing Each Other’s Needs28:29 – Glorifying God in Intimacy30:19 – Sex, Biology & Complexity36:07 – Facing Sexual Temptation39:19 – Talking to Kids About Sex41:52 – Safe, Age-Appropriate Talk51:29 – Abuse & Boundary Education56:39 – Spotting Wrong Behavior01:00:15 – Open, Ongoing Talks01:07:57 – Relationship Expectations01:12:56 – Modeling Healthy Love01:17:34 – Parenting in Big PictureZach's Links:Conquerers Through Christ: https://conquerorsthroughchrist.net/resources/Paper by Paul Krueger: http://essays.wls.edu:8080/handle/123456789/27Luke Gilkerson: https://www.intoxicatedonlife.com/store/product/the-sex-ed-series/Dr. Mona Amin: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1cl4u0jJNKWbD6n3gDPVMg?si=leIdawVRSAGIeopol-USiAGird Up Links:https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=tbCa0SOiluVl8UFxhttps://www.instagram.com/girdup_be_a_man/https://www.girdupministries.com

SummaryIn this episode of the Gird Up podcast, host Charlie Ungemach speaks with Professor E. Allen Sorum about his extensive experience in ministry, particularly focusing on outreach and the importance of male leadership in the church. Professor Sorum shares insights from his work in inner-city Milwaukee, emphasizing the need for developing male leaders to address social issues and foster community. The conversation explores the challenges facing men today, the significance of biblical masculinity, and the role of forgiveness and authenticity in leadership. Professor Sorum encourages men to embrace their identity in Christ and to be intentional in their spiritual leadership. In this conversation, Professor E. Allen Sorum and Charlie Ungemach explore the complexities of modern ideologies, particularly focusing on the impact of same-sex attraction discussions, the redefinition of feminism, and the influence of critical theory on society. They emphasize the importance of Christian witness, love, and understanding in navigating these challenging topics, encouraging listeners to engage in meaningful conversations and relationships with those who may feel marginalized or misunderstood.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Gird Up Podcast and Guest Introduction03:28 Professor E. Allen Sorum's Background and Ministry06:26 Experiences in Milwaukee and Focus on Male Leadership09:28 The Importance of Male Leadership in Ministry12:19 Cultural Challenges and the Role of Men15:30 Finding Purpose and Influence in Men's Lives18:30 Creating a Community of Purposeful Men21:23 Intentionalizing Spiritual Male Leadership24:30 The Foundation of Being a Biblically Informed Man25:29 The Essence of Boldness29:17 Understanding Individual Design and Purpose33:28 Navigating Modern Challenges in the Church39:55 Engaging with Same-Sex Attraction and Inclusivity43:40 Redefining Feminism and Its Impact47:19 The Influence of Critical Theory on Society49:45 Understanding Critical Race Theory51:58 Witnessing in Our Weakness53:18 The Christian Response to Injustice55:04 The Role of Healers in Society57:52 Imitating Christ in Conversations01:01:52 Equipping Christian Leaders01:08:51 The Heart of the MatterWLS Pastoral Studies Institute:https://www.wisluthsem.org/pastoral-studies-institute/Prof Sorum's Essay on Ministry in Cities:http://essays.wls.edu:8080/bitstream/handle/123456789/3803/SorumTheologyMissions.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=yGird Up Links:https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=tbCa0SOiluVl8UFxhttps://www.instagram.com/girdup_be_a_man/https://www.girdupministries.com

SummaryIn this episode of the Gird Up podcast, Charlie Ungemach and Cameron Schroeder discuss various themes surrounding personal growth, mental health, and the search for meaning in life. They share their experiences in seminary, the importance of community support, and the impact of literature on their journeys. The conversation delves into Viktor Frankl's 'Man's Search for Meaning,' exploring the significance of finding purpose even in the face of adversity. The hosts emphasize the power of choice and attitude in shaping one's life and the importance of living authentically and meaningfully. In this conversation, Cameron and Charlie explore the themes of personal ownership, the pursuit of meaning, and the importance of faith in shaping one's purpose. They discuss the significance of taking measured steps towards goals, the role of community in personal growth, and the dangers of seeking comfort over meaningful work. The dialogue emphasizes the necessity of recognizing one's agency in life and the transformative power of faith and relationships in finding fulfillment.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Gird Up Podcast01:08 Support and Community Engagement02:33 Life Updates and Vicar Call Excitement06:01 Mental Health Journey and Personal Growth09:37 Understanding Personal Struggles13:39 The Importance of Rest and Self-Awareness16:07 Creating Meaningful Connections17:46 Daily Practices for Personal Development20:31 Living the Dream and Finding Purpose23:13 Discussion on Viktor Frankl's Philosophy27:33 Finding Meaning in Suffering30:42 The Power of Choice and Attitude33:36 Logotherapy and Christian Worldview36:58 The Importance of Personal Responsibility41:32 Taking Ownership of Your Life47:28 Identifying Your Purpose50:09 Living for Christ and Making Him Known53:52 Living as an Ambassador for Christ55:38 Finding Meaning in Relationships59:14 The Importance of Daily Routines01:02:04 The Pursuit of Passion and Purpose01:04:43 Embracing Challenges and Growth01:08:31 The Role of Faith in Overcoming Adversity01:11:39 The Danger of Seeking Comfort01:14:35 Finding Meaning in Pain01:18:03 The Purpose of Work and Life01:20:50 The Value of Peripheral FriendshipsCameron's Links:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/camschro/Music - https://open.spotify.com/artist/0ysdrhAB9fuBxdlL1C6tYm?si=XpmgIat4SnmqunUNXeBtWAGird Up Links:https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=tbCa0SOiluVl8UFxhttps://www.instagram.com/girdup_be_a_man/https://www.girdupministries.com

SummaryIn this episode of the Gird Up podcast, host Charlie Ungemach speaks with Pastor Ed Frey, the director of ministry for Institutional Ministries. They discuss Ed's journey from being a pastor to working in institutional ministry, his family life, and the influences that shaped his career. Ed shares insights on navigating career decisions, the importance of serving marginalized communities, and the role of compassion in ministry. They also delve into the significance of mental health support, the need for qualified counselors, and the impact of community on healing. Throughout the conversation, Ed emphasizes the power of shared experiences and the healing nature of music.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Support for Gird Up Podcast05:47 Family Life and Personal Background12:32 Finding Purpose in Ministry17:51 The Dual Role of Ministry and Administration22:16 The Draw to Serve the Marginalized32:17 Addressing the Stigma of Offenders37:34 Finding Identity in Christ42:52 Guarding Against Temptation51:53 The Need for Qualified Counselors01:00:17 Do We All Need Therapy?01:05:40 The Role of Community in Healing01:10:20 Connecting Through Shared ExperiencesEd's LinksInstitutional Ministries: https://im.life/CFS:https://christianfamilysolutions.org/Gird Up Linkshttps://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=tbCa0SOiluVl8UFxhttps://www.instagram.com/girdup_be_a_man/https://www.girdupministries.com

SummaryIn this episode of the Gird Up podcast, host Charlie Ungemach engages in a deep conversation with Professor Harland Skip Goetzinger, exploring his unique journey from a quiet upbringing in Duluth, Minnesota, to his current role as a professor and pastor. The discussion delves into Skip's passion for woodworking, the challenges of pastoral ministry, and the importance of personal growth and community engagement. Skip shares insights on navigating stress, conflict resolution, and the joys and challenges of being a pastor, especially as a single man. The conversation highlights the significance of mentorship and the impact of teaching on both students and the community. In this conversation, Charlie Ungemach and Skip discuss the challenges and joys of ministry, particularly focusing on the loneliness that can accompany pastoral roles. They share personal stories about their journeys to becoming pastors, the importance of community support, and the ways in which God provides for those in ministry. The discussion also touches on the transition from secular careers to pastoral work, the significance of training and education in seminary, and the fulfillment that comes from serving in the church.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction05:12 Childhood and Family Background09:54 Passion for Woodworking14:45 Creative Projects and Inspirations19:04 The Life of a Pastor23:43 Navigating Challenges in Ministry28:23 Reflections on Future Ministry30:28 Building Character Through Adversity33:08 The Role of Supervising Pastors36:29 Growth Through Experience39:20 The Joys and Challenges of Ministry41:52 Confrontation and Communication in Ministry45:25 Navigating Loneliness as a Single Pastor51:56 Transitioning to Ministry: A Personal Journey01:04:41 Generosity in Times of Need01:06:27 Support and Community in Education01:07:30 Unexpected Opportunities and Faith01:09:35 God's Provision and Perspective01:10:37 Career Transitions and Life Choices01:18:30 The Call to Ministry01:20:52 Unexpected Paths and New Beginnings01:25:05 The Role of the Pastoral Studies Institute01:29:58 Global Impact and Future of MinistrySeminary PSI Link:https://www.wisluthsem.org/pastoral-studies-institute/Gird Up Links:https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=tbCa0SOiluVl8UFxhttps://www.instagram.com/girdup_be_a_man/https://www.girdupministries.com

SummaryIn this episode of the Gird Up Podcast, host Charlie Ungemach interviews his grandfather, Bob Schmidt, discussing family dynamics in business, the importance of honesty in sales, and the value of personal relationships. Bob shares insights on hiring practices, retaining good employees, and the generational differences in work ethic. The conversation also touches on the impact of technology on relationships and the importance of valuing the elderly in society. In this conversation, Bob and Charlie explore the complexities of relationships, particularly in family and business settings. They discuss the importance of understanding differences, the role of family in personal and professional life, and the significance of faith and consistency. Bob shares personal anecdotes that highlight life lessons learned through experiences, emphasizing the value of communication, quality time, and effective time management. The discussion also touches on health choices and the influence of Dale Carnegie's teachings on personal development. In this conversation, Bob shares his experiences with public speaking, his time spent in Australia, and the adventures he had while traveling around the world. He reflects on the importance of understanding different cultures and the lessons learned through his travels. The discussion highlights the value of personal growth, storytelling, and the joy of exploring new places.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background01:05 Family Business Dynamics04:30 Building Customer Relationships05:50 Honesty in Sales09:00 Hiring for Ethics and Honesty11:45 Retaining Good Employees12:55 Generational Differences in Work Ethic15:00 The Impact of Technology on Relationships19:54 The Importance of Personal Connections26:07 Valuing the Elderly30:02 The Influence of Environment on Aging33:00 Navigating Relationships and Differences35:10 The Role of Family in Life and Business36:36 Faith and Consistency in Life38:25 Life Lessons from Personal Experiences42:51 Working Together: Marriage and Business46:04 Balancing Family and Business Responsibilities48:18 Communication and Clear Roles in Family Business52:54 Quality Time: Togetherness in Family Activities54:41 Health and Lifestyle Choices56:56 Transitioning Between Work and Home Life59:28 Time Management and Productivity Insights01:01:26 Influence of Dale Carnegie on Personal Development01:01:40 The Power of Public Speaking01:04:03 Experiences in Australia01:10:03 Kangaroo Hunting Adventures01:15:56 Traveling the World: A Young Explorer's Journey01:28:57 Reflections on Travel and Cultural UnderstandingGird Up Links:https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=tbCa0SOiluVl8UFxhttps://www.instagram.com/girdup_be_a_man/https://www.girdupministries.com

SummaryIn this engaging conversation, hosts Charlie Ungemach, Nick Kressin, and Josh Rathje explore various aspects of ministry, teaching, and family life. They discuss the transition from different states and congregations, the challenges and joys of being a young pastor, and the importance of maintaining respect and grace in their vocations. The conversation also delves into the significance of routine, prayer, and scripture in their personal and professional lives, as well as the joys and challenges of raising children in the faith. Throughout the discussion, the hosts share personal anecdotes and insights, creating a relatable and inspiring dialogue for listeners.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Welcome03:23 Life Updates and Transitions06:31 Ministry Differences: New Mexico to Florida09:14 Evangelism in Different Contexts12:21 Young Pastors: Challenges and Opportunities15:12 Earning and Maintaining Respect18:19 Teaching Dynamics and School Environment21:13 Grace in Ministry24:24 Resilience in Modern Times29:52 Finding Momentum in Difficult Times32:25 Generational Perspectives on Responsibility35:12 Non-Negotiables in Times of Struggle39:36 The Power of Scripture in Daily Life47:45 Establishing Routines for Spiritual Growth54:23 The Power of Scripture and Spiritual Nourishment55:46 Nurturing Faith in Children57:21 Modeling Faith Through Family Practices01:00:47 The Role of Hymns in Family Worship01:03:02 Creating a Family Culture of Worship01:07:37 Reflections on Relationships and Future Spouses01:21:30 Closing Thoughts and GratitudeGird Up Links:https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=tbCa0SOiluVl8UFxhttps://www.instagram.com/girdup_be_a_man/https://www.girdupministries.com