Advertise on podcast: The CGN Podcast

S6 | Mark Foreman — Friendship with God What does it truly mean to walk with God—and what if our greatest calling isn't simply to work for Jesus, but to live in friendship with Him? In the Season 6 finale of the CGN Podcast, Mark Foreman shares a message from the CGN International Leadership Conference, For Such a Time as This: The Church in the World. Through Scripture, personal stories, and reflections on the life of Jesus, Mark explores the beauty of friendship with God and how that relationship shapes our discipleship, relationships, and mission in the world. From Abraham's relationship with God to Jesus' restoration of Peter, Mark reminds us that following Christ is more than fulfilling a calling. It's an invitation to walk closely with Him, share in His purposes, and become more like Him. As we conclude this season, we're reminded that our mission flows out of our relationship with Jesus. To learn more about Calvary Global Network, upcoming leadership cohorts, conferences, and opportunities to connect with pastors and ministry leaders around the world, visit cgn.org.

Is the world becoming more interested in the Bible? In this episode of The CGN Podcast, host Daniel Williams introduces a powerful session from the 2026 CGN International Conference featuring Dr. Andrew Ollerton, author of God's Book. Drawing from Acts 8 and the story of Philip and the Ethiopian official, Andrew explores a growing spiritual curiosity, particularly among younger generations, and challenges the Church to recognize and respond to the opportunities God is opening. Andrew is also joined by his 16-year-old son, Joel, who shares an encouraging testimony of how God is moving among students in Wales through conversations about faith, Scripture, and the Gospel. Throughout this session, Andrew encourages believers to be open to the Holy Spirit, open to the Scriptures, and open to the stranger, reminding us that sharing the Gospel begins with a willingness to meet people where they are. As interest in the Bible grows, how can we be ready to engage a generation searching for truth? Learn more about Calvary Global Network, explore upcoming outreach opportunities, and register for the 2027 CGN Leadership Conference in San Diego at CGN.org. For His Mission. Together.

What does it mean to be authentic in a world searching for something real? In this episode of the CGN Podcast, Brad Hall shares a message from the CGN International Leadership Conference on the importance of authenticity in our lives, relationships, and ministries. Teaching from 3 John, Brad reflects on his own journey of faith and ministry and explores four areas of authenticity: the authentic person, authentic ministry, authentic fellowship, and authentic outreach. At the heart of it all is a call to genuinely love others, walk in truth, remain faithful, and allow our lives to reflect the reality of Jesus to a world searching for Him. Pasted markdown Brad also shares candidly about the cost ministry can have on our families when our priorities become misplaced, reminding leaders that authenticity must begin at home. Our public ministry should never come at the expense of the people God has entrusted to us personally. Pasted markdown Be authentic. Be who you are. And faithfully represent Jesus in the world around you.

In this episode of the CGN Podcast, Phil Metzger shares a message from the CGN International Leadership Conference on our mission, our methods, and our movement. Teaching from 2 Corinthians 5, Phil reminds us that the mission has never changed: we are ambassadors for Christ, entrusted with the gospel and called to make disciples. But while the message remains the same, our methods must be willing to adapt as we seek to reach different cultures, communities, and generations. Phil reflects on the history of Calvary Chapel, the importance of passing the baton forward to the next generation, and what it looks like to honor what God has done in the past while remaining attentive to what He wants to do today. How can we remain rooted in the truth of the gospel while faithfully engaging an ever-changing world? And what could God do through a movement committed to being the Church in the world for such a time as this?

In a world increasingly marked by fragmentation, distraction, and disconnection, what does it look like for the Church to live differently? In this session from the CGN International Leadership Conference, Pastor and author Heath Hardesty explores the idea that we are living in an “age of disintegration” and points to the hope found in Colossians 1: “In Him all things hold together.” Heath unpacks how apprenticeship to Jesus forms us into whole, integrated people through union with Christ, abiding in Him, obedience, and becoming more like our Master. He also challenges the Church to resist the fragmented patterns of our culture by becoming a people shaped by the coherent story of Scripture and a witness that holds together beauty, goodness, and truth. The session concludes with a conversation with Brian Brodersen about All Things Together, discipleship, spiritual formation, and practical rhythms for cultivating a life with Jesus. In a fragmented world, the Church has an opportunity to reflect a different way of living—not because we can hold everything together ourselves, but because we belong to the One in whom all things hold together.

What does it mean to bear God’s name? Explore Exodus and discover how God’s people are called to reflect His character—especially through His fierce care for the orphan, widow, and immigrant. We’ll rethink Old Testament law, the true meaning of freedom, and the church’s mission in today’s world. And we’ll see the two paths to influence: worldly power or self-giving love. Jesus chose the way of love, sacrifice, and service. What might that look like for us today? ⁠CGN Network Meetings⁠ ⁠CGN Leadership Conference | June 27-30-2027 | San Diego, CA

In this episode of the CGN Podcast, Brian Brodersen opens Session 1 of the CGN International Conference by reminding us that the church was made for times like these. Drawing from Jesus’ words about being the salt and light of the world, Brian challenges church leaders to become more like Jesus and to live out the Kingdom of God through righteousness, peace, and joy. In a world filled with darkness and uncertainty, this is our moment to faithfully reflect Christ and proclaim the hope of the gospel. CGN Network Meetings CGN Leadership Conference | June 27-30-2027 | San Diego, CA

In this episode, Daniel Williams and Brian Brodersen sit down with Mark Foreman, Pastor Emeritus of North Coast Calvary Chapel, ahead of the CGN International Ministry Conference. Mark shares about his lifelong desire to reach people who may have said no to church but are still open to saying yes to Jesus. He reflects on his years of ministry, church planting, mentoring pastors, and building meaningful relationships across the wider body of Christ. Together, they discuss the importance of unity among pastors and churches, the fruit that comes from friendship and collaboration, and what the global church can teach us about moving forward together in mission. Mark also shares what has been on his heart as he prepares for the conference: the radical and deeply personal reality of friendship with God. This conversation is an encouragement to keep walking with Jesus, cultivate lasting friendships, and remain open to all God wants to do in and through our lives. Join us at the CGN International Ministry Conference, June 28–July 1 at Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa. Learn more and register at conference.calvarychapel.com.

What does it look like for the Church to faithfully live in the world without becoming shaped by it? In this episode, Daniel Williams sits down with Phil Metzger, Lead Pastor of Calvary San Diego and featured speaker at the CGN International Ministry Conference, to discuss mission, culture, church planting, and the role of the Church in today's world. Drawing from over twenty years of missionary service in Eastern Europe, Phil shares how God has shaped his understanding of ministry, the importance of listening across cultural differences, and why the Church must remain sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit in every generation. Phil also offers a preview of his upcoming conference message, exploring what it means for the Church to engage the world missionally, methodologically, and as a movement—while remaining distinct from the values of the world around us.

What does it look like to pursue unity in a divided world? In this episode of the CGN Podcast, Daniel Williams and Brian Brodersen sit down with Evan Wickham—pastor of Park Hill Church in San Diego and worship leader—to discuss the beauty and challenge of cultivating unity within the body of Christ. Evan shares stories from eight years of church planting, navigating seasons of leadership transition, and preparing to become a grandfather. Together, they explore why clarity and love must go hand in hand, how worship can bring believers together across denominational lines, and why rediscovering the richness of the historic church can strengthen our witness today. From citywide prayer gatherings and songwriting sessions with Christians from different traditions to practical encouragement for pastors seeking deeper relationships within the broader church, this conversation is a timely reminder that Jesus' prayer for unity still matters. As we prepare for the CGN International Ministry Conference 2026, this episode invites us to consider what it means to be the church in the world—for such a time as this. Join us for the CGN International Ministry Conference, June 28–July 1, 2026, at Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa. For registration and conference details, visit:CGN International Ministry Conference

What does it look like to be the Church in the world today? In this episode of the CGN Podcast, Daniel Williams sits down with Brad Hall, pastor of One Love Church in Sydney, Australia, and a main session speaker for the 2026 CGN International Ministry Conference. Brad shares his journey from planting churches in Hawaii and Australia to teaching Christian Studies in a local high school, where he engages daily with students wrestling with questions about faith, science, truth, and meaning. As Brad reflects on this year’s conference theme, For Such a Time as This: The Church in the World, he emphasizes the importance of authenticity. In a culture flooded with competing voices, misinformation, and skepticism, Brad believes the Church has an opportunity to stand out by simply being genuine in its faith, relationships, and witness. The conversation explores the unique spiritual landscape of Australia, the hunger young people have for answers, and how ordinary conversations can become powerful opportunities for ministry. Brad also offers encouragement for pastors and church leaders who may be feeling weary, reminding them that God remains faithful and that perseverance in ministry is never wasted. About Brad Hall Brad Hall began serving in pastoral ministry in 1995 and planted a church in Maui, Hawaii, in 1998, where he served for 12 years. In 2010, Brad and his wife, Christy, moved to Sydney, Australia. After several years serving in local churches, they planted One Love Church in 2017, where Brad continues to serve as lead pastor. Alongside pastoral ministry, he teaches Christian Studies at a local high school, helping students thoughtfully engage questions about faith and life. Resources & Links Register for the CGN International Ministry Conference:conference.calvarychapel.com

In this episode of the CGN Podcast, hosts Daniel Williams and Brian Brodersen sit down with Old Testament scholar Dr. Carmen Joy Imes, who will be speaking at the upcoming CGN International Conference. Carmen shares her journey from aspiring missionary to professor at Biola University, her deep passion for the Old Testament, and why understanding Scripture in its cultural and historical context matters for today’s church. The conversation explores the relevance of Exodus, the mission of the church in today’s world, how leaders can respond to difficult Bible questions, and why the church’s calling is not to seize power but to faithfully embody the character of Jesus in a broken world.  Register today for the CGN International Ministry Conference at https://conference.calvarychapel.com.

In this episode of the CGN Podcast, hosts Daniel Williams and Brian Brodersen sit down with pastor, author, and conference speaker Heath Hardesty to discuss ministry, church leadership, discipleship, and what it means to faithfully follow Jesus in a fractured world. Heath shares the story of planting a next-generation ministry in the heart of Silicon Valley, navigating the challenges of merging church communities, and learning patience, humility, and trust through seasons of leadership. He reflects on how God has renewed his love for the ordinary work of pastoring and the joy of shepherding people faithfully. The conversation explores the growing fragmentation of modern culture and Heath’s vision for the Church to become a compelling witness of integration, beauty, truth, and goodness in a divided world. Drawing from themes in his book All Things Together, Heath encourages believers to embrace apprenticeship to Jesus—not as an optional spiritual extra, but as the very essence of Christian life. They also discuss the importance of ministry friendships, learning communities, and conferences as places of encouragement and growth, along with Heath’s unique outreach through Inkling’s Coffee & Tea, a church-founded coffee shop designed to cultivate beauty, meaningful conversations, and Gospel presence in the community. Whether you’re a pastor, ministry leader, or simply seeking encouragement in your walk with Jesus, this conversation offers practical wisdom for staying faithful, slowing down, cultivating wonder, and continuing to trust God in difficult seasons.

In this episode of the CGN Podcast, Daniel Williams and Brian Brodersen sit down with worship leaders Joel and Tiffany Hosler ahead of the 2026 CGN International Conference. Joel and Tiffany share their ministry journey—from music industry beginnings to leading worship together at Calvary Chapel St. Petersburg—and open up about walking through profound seasons of grief, loss, and hardship while holding tightly to Jesus. Together, they discuss the difference between performance and worship, how suffering deepened their faith, and the ways God uses everyday opportunities in business, ministry, and community to point people toward Him. Brian also shares honestly about navigating the recent loss of his son-in-law and the hope found in Christ amid grief. This conversation is a reminder that worship is more than music—it is learning to trust Jesus in every season and remembering His faithfulness, even in suffering. Resources & Links Register for the 2026 CGN International Conference: conference.calvarychapel.comLearn more about Calvary Chapel Global Network: cgn.org Connect With Us Subscribe to the CGN Podcast for conversations on discipleship, ministry, theology, evangelism, and the work God is doing through the global church.

In this episode of the CGN Podcast, host Daniel Williams sits down with Dr. Andrew Ollerton to explore what it means for the church to faithfully engage the world in this cultural moment. Andrew shares his heart for helping people understand the Bible and why clarity in Scripture leads to clarity in life. From his work with Bible Society to collaborating with Bear Grylls, Andrew brings a unique perspective as a “bridge” between academic theology and everyday discipleship. Together, they discuss the growing global interest in the Bible, the challenges people face when reading it, and why now is a critical moment for the church to step forward with truth, clarity, and confidence. In This Episode, You’ll Hear About: Why “when we make sense of the Bible, the Bible makes sense of us” The story of King Josiah and how rediscovering Scripture leads to real transformation The rise in Bible engagement and spiritual searching, especially among young peopleWhat a “digital revival” looks like and where people are actually seeking truth today Why the church must stop avoiding hard questions and start addressing them head-onThe inspiration behind Andrew’s new book tackling the Bible’s toughest topicsHow to engage conversations around science, suffering, miracles, and moralityWhy faith, not expertise, is the most important thing leaders bring to ministryResources & Links Learn more about the CGN International Ministry ConferenceRegister now: conference.calvarychapel.comExplore Andrew Ollerton’s latest book God’s Book Join Us Don’t miss the opportunity to hear Andrew Ollerton in person at the CGN International Ministry Conference, happening June 28–July 1 at Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa.