Gird Up! Podcast

SummaryIn this episode of the Gird Up podcast, host Charlie Ungemach interviews Jacob Kieselhorst, a recent seminary graduate and new pastor. They delve into the complex topic of toxic masculinity, exploring its definitions, societal implications, and the biblical perspective on masculinity. Jacob shares insights from his thesis on the subject, discussing the historical evolution of gender roles and the impact of modern society on men's behavior. The conversation emphasizes the importance of active fatherhood and the need for dialogue in addressing the challenges faced by men and women today. In this conversation, Jacob K and Charlie Ungemach explore the profound impact of fatherhood on identity, the importance of listening to understand others' experiences, and the role of scripture in defining masculinity. They emphasize the necessity of knowing Christ personally and presenting the unconditional love of God to those who have experienced negative father figures. The discussion also delves into various perspectives on masculinity found in literature, highlighting the need for a balanced understanding of manhood informed by Christian teachings.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Gird Up Podcast05:59 Exploring Toxic Masculinity: The Thesis Behind the Discussion12:09 Defining Toxic Masculinity: Perspectives and Challenges21:13 The Other Side: Embracing Traditional Masculinity30:43 Masculinity: The Struggle Between Hyper-Masculinity and Vulnerability37:06 Historical Context: The Evolution of Gender Roles42:48 The Role of Pornography in Modern Relationships47:59 The Importance of Fathers in the Home50:05 The Cycle of Emotional Wounds52:51 Understanding the Roots of Anger56:50 The Role of Scripture in Defining Masculinity01:01:33 The Difference Between Kindness and Niceness01:06:10 Knowing Christ: A Personal Relationship01:11:33 The Beauty of God's Love Amidst Pain01:12:16 The Prodigal Son: A Father's Love01:13:45 God the Father: A Different Kind of Love01:14:26 Forgiveness and Redemption for Fathers01:14:56 Living Out the Christian Example01:16:23 The Impact of Living Faithfully01:17:19 Listening and Engaging in Conversations01:17:57 Sharing Personal Testimonies01:18:41 Evaluating Christian Literature01:20:40 Understanding Negative Perceptions of Christianity01:22:22 The Importance of Positive Male Figures01:24:29 The Role of Mentorship in Healing01:25:43 The Power of Presence in Relationships01:27:39 Restoring Order Through Godly Leadership01:29:05 The Need for Proper Masculine Role Models01:30:33 Presenting Unconditional Love in Christ01:31:16 Navigating Masculinity in Christian Literature01:33:21 The Importance of Understanding Different PerspectivesJacob's Links:https://www.menshealth.com/trending-news/a60258262/crossroads-church-man-camp/https://pastor.trinity-pres.nethttp://essays.wls.edu:8080/handle/123456789/7676Gird 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 Ashley Fritz, a landscape architect and worship coordinator, about her journey of faith, experiences in a secular university, and the importance of community and genuine friendships. They discuss the challenges women face in the church, the significance of making faith personal, and the dynamics of dating in a Christian context. Ashley shares her insights on navigating peer pressure, building supportive relationships, and the evolving role of women in the church. In this conversation, Ashley Fritz and Charlie Ungemach explore the complexities of faith, relationships, and personal growth within the context of Christian values. They discuss the importance of being upfront about beliefs in dating, the value of being single, and the challenges young women face in the church. The conversation also touches on the state of young men in the church, the impact of societal norms on sexuality, and the significance of landscape architecture as a means to connect with God's creation. Throughout, they emphasize the importance of mentorship, community, and understanding one's purpose in life.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Gird Up Podcast and Support04:14 Staying Involved in Faith Post-College08:54 Navigating the Party Culture at University14:33 Building a Supportive Community in College17:19 Preparing for Temptations and Challenges20:07 Evangelism and Outreach in a Secular Environment23:07 The Importance of Approach in Conversations24:56 Reflections on Conversations with Different Beliefs25:58 The Importance of Speaking Truth27:45 Searching for Identity and Belonging28:10 The Depth of True Christian Friendships30:19 Navigating New Friendships in a New Place32:14 The Role of Faith in Friendships33:36 Choosing Friends Wisely36:51 Creating a Culture of Meaningful Conversations38:14 The Decline of Young Women in Church41:29 Understanding Gender Roles in the Church43:57 Ensuring Women Feel Valued in Church45:45 The Experience of Being Heard in Church47:31 Dating as a Single Woman in the Church52:59 Navigating Faith and Relationships56:18 The Freedom of Singleness vs. Desire for Family59:07 The Value of Being Single in God's Kingdom01:01:48 Cultural Influences on Women's Value01:05:23 The State of Young Men in the Church01:12:05 Challenges of Sexuality in Christian Dating01:17:02 The Importance of Respect and Understanding Past Mistakes01:20:17 Healing and Forgiveness in the Context of Sexuality01:24:42 The Journey into Landscape Architecture01:28:37 The Connection Between Nature and Human Well-being01:33:57 Designing with Purpose: Understanding Creation01:39:21 Natural Living and the Return to SimplicityAshley's Links:https://www.instagram.com/refugeraleigh?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.instagram.com/ash.monette/https://www.instagram.com/ash.monette/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 speaks with Jon, a missionary in Ecuador, about his journey from teaching in the Midwest to working in global missions. They discuss the challenges and rewards of living in a different culture, the importance of family and faith, and the role of technology in outreach efforts. Jon shares insights on raising a bilingual child, navigating fame, and the significance of intentional mission work. The conversation emphasizes the need for community support and the power of God's word in guiding their lives and work.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Girt Up Podcast01:48 Journey to Ecuador: A Missionary's Tale04:26 From Teaching to Mission Work: John's Transition09:45 Overcoming Language Barriers in a New Country11:28 The Gringo Show: A Unique Experience in Chile14:48 Finding Purpose in Academia Cristo17:12 Balancing Family Life and Mission Work19:44 Raising a Bilingual Child in a Foreign Land22:10 Cultural Differences in Worship24:20 Multilingual Productions: Expanding the Mission27:07 Intentional Outreach: Reaching Communities29:31 The Role of Internet in Modern Missions35:43 Faith in Adversity: Lessons Learned39:36 Transformation Through Experience40:29 Starting Anew: The Journey of Relocation44:08 Embracing Community: The Power of Support45:38 From Influencer to Celebrity: The Unexpected Journey51:22 The Evolution of Content Creation: From Phone to Professional58:38 Navigating Fame: The Balance of Influence and Humility01:03:03 The Algorithm Game: Pressure and Authenticity01:13:14 Finding Purpose: The Role of Faith in Life's JourneyJon's Links:http://academiacristo.com/https://wels.net/serving-others/missions/latin-america/https://www.youtube.com/@JonGrossGringoGird 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 Quinten Petersen, a dedicated music educator at Wisconsin Lutheran High School. They discuss the importance of early music education, the value of persistence in practice, and the joy that music can bring to students. Quinten shares insights about his innovative Viking Steel program, which has significantly increased student engagement in music. The conversation also touches on the balance between talent and hard work in music education, and how building a culture of music can positively impact students' lives. In this engaging conversation, Quinten and Charlie explore the themes of personal branding, authenticity, and the balance between professional and personal life. They discuss the importance of curating one's brand while staying true to oneself, the joy found in the process of work, and the challenges of balancing fatherhood with a demanding career. The conversation also touches on the value of old friendships and the art of sharing experiences over whiskey, emphasizing the beauty in well-crafted moments and connections.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Support for Girt Up Podcast07:55 The Importance of Music Education for Kids11:50 Active, Intelligent Young People and Music17:14 The Value of Hard Work in Music23:03 Finding Joy in Music Education25:57 The Birth of Viking Steel: A Unique Music Program28:39 Building a Music Community29:59 The Growth Mindset in Music Education31:16 The Longevity of Steel Pan in Students' Lives32:23 Music as a Community and Worship Tool33:46 The On-Ramp to Ensemble Music Making35:17 The Joy of Music Education36:25 Defining Success as a Music Educator38:30 The Role of Culture in Music Programs39:39 Consistency and Building Trust in Music Education42:34 Authenticity in Teaching and Personal Branding46:12 Finding Your Truth and Brand51:41 The Balance of Work and Family Life56:31 The Power of Confidence in Communication56:47 Lessons from Band Directing to Fatherhood57:35 Navigating Challenges as a Parent58:41 The Impact of Fatherhood on Teaching01:00:20 Work-Life Integration: Finding Balance01:04:13 The Importance of Self-Care for Educators01:06:10 Understanding Time Management as a Parent01:08:08 Efficiency and Adaptability in Parenting01:09:57 The Value of Enjoying Your Work01:12:27 Music Recommendations and Creative Passions01:16:53 Exploring the World of WhiskeyQuinten's Links:https://www.wlhs.org/https://www.wlhs.org/academics/fine-arts/viking-steel-community-bandGird 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 Chris Gorr, who discusses his thesis on moral injury, particularly in the context of law enforcement and military personnel. They explore the differences between moral injury and PTSD, the spiritual implications of these experiences, and how Christian communities can better support those affected. Chris shares his personal journey from law enforcement to ministry, emphasizing the importance of proactive spiritual care and the role of pastors in addressing moral injury. The conversation also touches on biblical examples of moral injury and the significance of the gospel in healing.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Gird Up Podcast01:13 Understanding Moral Injury04:55 Personal Experiences with Moral Injury07:49 Transitioning from Law Enforcement to Ministry17:22 The Role of Pastors in Addressing Moral Injury20:34 Distinguishing PTSD from Moral Injury24:20 The Nature of Moral Injury27:27 The Impact on First Responders31:23 Toxic Experiences in Law Enforcement35:23 The Role of Dispatchers in Public Safety36:16 Moral Injury and Spiritual Care41:20 Building Rapport with First Responders46:07 The Importance of Proactive Spiritual Care50:44 Recognizing Warning Signs of Distress52:48 Biblical Examples of Moral Injury55:34 The Combat Patch of the Cross58:49 Reflections on Law Enforcement and Community RespectChris's Paper: http://essays.wls.edu:8080/handle/123456789/7673WELS Military/Police Resources:https://lutheranmilitary.org/https://wels.net/serving-you/christian-life/special-ministries/ministry-to-the-military/military-resources/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, Charlie Ungemach and Jacob Klug explore themes of manhood through the lens of poetry, particularly focusing on Rudyard Kipling's poem 'If.' They discuss the challenges of criticism, the nature of risk and resilience, and the philosophical implications of triumph and disaster. The conversation emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, humility, and the understanding that both success and failure are temporary states. Ultimately, they highlight the need for a grounded perspective in life, rooted in faith and the recognition of one's limitations. In this conversation, Jacob and Charlie explore the themes of life's challenges, the importance of perspective, and the value of hard work. They discuss the balance between physical and mental challenges, the significance of purpose in actions, and the role of recreation and entertainment in life. The conversation also delves into the importance of physical labor, reflections on mortality, and the essence of true manhood, emphasizing love and vulnerability as central to human experience.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Support for Girt Up Podcast03:49 Exploring Manhood Through Poetry10:21 Kipling's 'If': A Deep Dive into Manhood20:01 The Challenges of Criticism and Self-Reflection29:45 Building Back After Loss: Resilience and Action30:42 Understanding Job's Trials and Divine Sovereignty33:50 The Nature of Risk and Stewardship37:40 Embracing Risk in Christian Life41:23 The Value of Hard Work and Mastery45:46 Perspective on Triumph and Disaster50:00 The Importance of Doing Hard Things54:06 Purpose Behind Hard Work and Discipline59:51 The Value of Love and Redemption01:00:32 Recreation and Entertainment: A Necessary Balance01:02:45 The Role of Physical Labor in Our Lives01:08:36 The Importance of Meaningful Rest01:11:07 Mortality and the Human Experience01:17:46 The Limitations of Stoicism01:22:32 The Centrality of Love in Virtue01:28:22 Faith and the Journey to WholenessJacob's Links:https://x.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2Fklugsayshttps://www.youtube.com/ @RevKlug 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 JonAlden Pedersen about the implications of artificial intelligence (AI) in ministry and society. They discuss the definition of AI, its principles of use, and how it can serve as a tool for enhancing church work. The conversation also addresses concerns about AI replacing jobs, the fears surrounding its impact, and the importance of using AI responsibly within a Christian context. Ultimately, they emphasize that while AI can be a powerful tool, it should not overshadow the human element in ministry and community building. In this conversation, Jon Alden Peterson and Charlie Ungemach explore the multifaceted applications of AI in everyday life, particularly in research, learning, and church ministry. They discuss the importance of effective prompting, transparency in AI usage, and the potential for AI to enhance community engagement within the church. The dialogue emphasizes the need for ethical considerations and the integration of technology with traditional values, ultimately aiming to leverage AI for positive outcomes in personal and communal contexts.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Gird Up Podcast01:10 Exploring Artificial Intelligence03:34 Defining Artificial Intelligence09:14 Principles of AI Usage12:03 AI as a Tool for Ministry14:14 AI's Impact on Employment18:31 Addressing Fears of AI21:23 The Role of AI in the Church25:16 Practical Applications of AI32:26 Harnessing AI for Everyday Tasks35:54 AI as a Research Assistant36:51 Learning New Skills with AI37:18 Transparency and Ethical Use of AI38:15 Effective Prompting Techniques43:34 Building a Conversational Relationship with AI47:34 The Future of AI in Ministry50:52 Creating a Positive Online Community56:49 Leveraging AI for Church Engagement01:00:07 Integrating Tradition with TechnologyJon's Links:https://www.facebook.com/jonny.pedersen.524https://www.instagram.com/jonaldendelmer/Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary Essay File: https://www.wisluthsem.org/resources/essay-files/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 welcomes Professor Joel Russow, a systematic theology and pastoral theology professor at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary. They discuss the importance of pastoral and mental health counseling, the journey of lifelong learning in theology, and the unique challenges faced by seminarians. Professor Russow shares insights on building trust with pastors, the intersection of counseling and theology, and the need for support in ministry. The conversation emphasizes the significance of understanding mental health within the context of faith and the role of education in preparing future pastors. In this conversation, Professor Joel Russow and Charlie Ungemach delve into the complexities of infidelity, mental health, and the alarming rise of male suicide. They explore how understanding the psychological impact of infidelity can aid pastors in counseling, the intersection of secular research and biblical teachings, and the importance of community support in addressing mental health issues. The discussion emphasizes the need for open conversations about suicide, particularly among men, and highlights the role of faith and community in providing hope and healing. In this conversation, Charlie Ungemach and Professor Joel Russow explore the complexities of prayer, the implications of suicide, and the comforting aspects of Lutheran theology. They discuss personal prayer practices, the nature of prayer as a conversation with God, and the challenges surrounding the topic of suicide, including questions of salvation and forgiveness. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of mourning and hope in the face of grief, the longing for eternal life, and the purpose of life on earth as a calling to serve others. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the unwavering love of God and the assurance of His presence in our lives.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview01:18 Meet Professor Joel Russow02:44 The Journey of Lifelong Learning05:23 The Intersection of Pastoral and Mental Health Counseling09:24 Navigating the Need for Counseling11:50 Expectations from Pastoral Counseling14:05 Building Trust with Your Pastor16:05 The Role of a Counseling Professor18:14 The Importance of Counseling in Seminary Training23:00 Common Struggles of Seminarians27:11 Specialization in Mental Health Counseling29:19 Understanding Infidelity and Its Impact34:15 The Intersection of Research and Biblical Perspectives34:44 Addressing Male Suicide: A Growing Concern42:05 The Complexity of Mental Health Issues48:28 Finding Hope in Community and Faith01:01:47 Creating Personal Prayer Spaces01:02:47 The Nature of Prayer as Conversation01:05:08 Understanding Suicide and Its Implications01:07:30 Lutheran Perspectives on Sin and Salvation01:11:32 Responding to Grief and Loss01:15:29 Navigating Conversations Around Suicide01:18:10 Longing for Home: A Christian Perspective01:22:32 Finding Purpose in Our Time on EarthGird 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 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