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Story, Leadership, and Present Calling In this episode, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds welcome Aaron Johnson for a conversation about his journey and current work in leadership. Aaron shares his story, the experiences that shaped his path, and what he is learning in this present season of life. He also offers practical insights and encouragement for listeners seeking to lead well and live with purpose. This episode highlights the importance of growth, perspective, and staying attentive to what God is doing right now. Books by Aaron - https://www.amazon.com/stores/Aaron-Johnson/author/B07XY9S6VJ?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=b0683eed-1697-48d5-ae0c-e9ba952e7894 Game Changers Lead Podcast - YouTube  https://www.youtube.com/@GameChangersLead

Healing, Pressure, and Hope for Leaders In this follow-up conversation, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds continue with Dr. Blake Rackley, focusing on emotional health, leadership pressure, and the realities many people face today. Dr. Rackley discusses the deep hurts present in individuals and communities, along with the unique challenges leaders carry as they care for others. He offers practical guidance for addressing pain in healthy ways and encourages leaders to care for their own souls as well. This episode provides thoughtful insight and hopeful direction for those seeking healing and resilience. LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/blake-rackley-0a412b57/ Facebooks - https://www.facebook.com/blake.rackley.2025

Story, Loss, and Lessons from Counseling In this episode, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds welcome Blake Rackley for a deeply personal and meaningful conversation. Dr. Rackley shares his life story, including the profound impact of his son Jon Michael, and how those experiences have shaped his calling in counseling and ministry. Drawing from years of walking with others through pain and healing, he reflects on the life lessons he has learned along the way. This episode offers both honesty and hope for anyone navigating grief, loss, or the complexities of caring for others. LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/blake-rackley-0a412b57/ Facebooks - https://www.facebook.com/blake.rackley.2025

EPISODE 2 — Brianna Lambert Message, Application, and Connection Continuing the conversation, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds talk with Brianna Lambert about the deeper message of her book and how it applies to everyday life. Brianna shares practical ways readers can engage her work individually or in group settings, along with suggestions for living out its message. She also discusses how listeners can connect with her and continue learning from her journey. This episode offers clear takeaways and encouragement for those seeking to grow in faith, perspective, and purpose. https://briannalambert.com/ Brianna's books -  https://www.amazon.com/stores/Brianna-Janelle-Lambert/author/B0FQ6TGG5W?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=c59036c6-c95c-455d-a595-f0019fec0e2e

EPISODE 1 — Brianna Lambert Story, Formation, and Calling In this episode of Next Step Leadership Podcast, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds welcome Brianna Lambert for a conversation about her personal journey of faith and leadership. Brianna shares the experiences that shaped her story, the lessons she has learned along the way, and how God has guided her into her current calling. She also introduces the heart behind her book, offering insight into the message she hopes will resonate with readers. This episode provides an honest and encouraging look at growth, purpose, and the ongoing process of becoming who God calls us to be. https://briannalambert.com/ Brianna's books -  https://www.amazon.com/stores/Brianna-Janelle-Lambert/author/B0FQ6TGG5W?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=c59036c6-c95c-455d-a595-f0019fec0e2e

EPISODE 2 — Chuck & Sherry Quinley ReJesus, Writing, and Encouragement for Others In this follow-up conversation, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds continue with Chuck and Sherry Quinley, focusing on their current work and the message they are sharing today. They talk about their podcast ReJesus, the heart behind their writing and teaching, and how their message connects with today’s culture and church. Chuck and Sherry also offer encouragement to leaders who may feel weary or uncertain, reminding listeners of the importance of returning to Jesus at the center of everything. This episode provides both inspiration and practical encouragement for those seeking to live and lead with renewed focus and faith. https://www.quinley.com/ ReJesus Everything book -  https://www.amazon.com/ReJesus-Everything-What-Christianity-Disappointed/dp/0980242983/ref=sr_1_1?crid=VFQZ5YT1CXT4&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.5jaFKO6vWJpCQjfoXOIquFa8hbhdWUgCuyJPuPU7qM4._vv3IVnwvh2myI-0cMKWgyWVcXSP_uiXpDGnUVznFe4&dib_tag=se&keywords=rejesus%2Beverything%2Bquinley&qid=1781669481&sprefix=reJesus%2Caps%2C227&sr=8-1

EPISODE 1 — Chuck & Sherry Quinley Their Story, Calling, and Ministry In this episode of Next Step Leadership Podcast, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds welcome Chuck Quinley and Sherry Quinley for a meaningful conversation about their journey of faith and ministry. Chuck and Sherry share how they each came to know and follow Jesus, and how God brought their lives together in a shared calling. Reflecting on years of ministry experience, they discuss the moments that shaped their purpose and the passion that continues to guide their work. This episode offers a glimpse into a life of faithful obedience, rooted in love for Christ and a desire to serve others. https://www.quinley.com/ ReJesus Everything book - https://www.amazon.com/ReJesus-Everything-What-Christianity-Disappointed/dp/0980242983/ref=sr_1_1?crid=VFQZ5YT1CXT4&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.5jaFKO6vWJpCQjfoXOIquFa8hbhdWUgCuyJPuPU7qM4._vv3IVnwvh2myI-0cMKWgyWVcXSP_uiXpDGnUVznFe4&dib_tag=se&keywords=rejesus%2Beverything%2Bquinley&qid=1781669481&sprefix=reJesus%2Caps%2C227&sr=8-1

Continuing their conversation, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds talk with the General Superintendent of the Assemblies of God, Doug Clay, about the realities facing pastors and churches today. Doug discusses key concerns for ministry leaders, cultural shifts affecting the church, and the pressures many pastors experience in today’s environment. At the same time, he shares hopeful trends and signs of renewal that encourage him about the future of the church. Doug concludes with words of wisdom from his books and encourages ministers who are seeking to lead faithfully in a rapidly changing world. https://ag.org/About/Leadership-Team/General-Superintendent Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/DougClayAG/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dougclayag/ Linked In - https://www.linkedin.com/in/doug-clay-89aa3b58/ X (Twitter) - https://x.com/dougclay Amazon Author's page - https://www.amazon.com/stores/Doug-Clay/author/B0F3Z6Y66L?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=c4578a0e-38e4-4f81-9f22-3e0508757317

In this episode, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds welcome Doug Clay, General Superintendent of the Assemblies of God. Doug shares his personal story of faith and calling, reflecting on the experiences that shaped his journey in ministry and leadership. From early ministry opportunities to serving in one of the most influential leadership roles in the Assemblies of God, Doug discusses the lessons God has taught him along the way. His reflections offer encouragement and wisdom for leaders seeking to serve with humility, integrity, and faithfulness. https://ag.org/About/Leadership-Team/General-Superintendent Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/DougClayAG/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dougclayag/ Linked In - https://www.linkedin.com/in/doug-clay-89aa3b58/ X (Twitter) - https://x.com/dougclay Amazon Author's page - https://www.amazon.com/stores/Doug-Clay/author/B0F3Z6Y66L?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=c4578a0e-38e4-4f81-9f22-3e0508757317

Continuing the conversation, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds talk with Clay Dial about the realities of life in ministry today. Clay shares honestly about the joys that energize him as a pastor and the challenges that come with serving in the church. The discussion explores trends in the church that concern him, developments that give him hope, and the lessons he has learned early in his ministry journey. Clay concludes by offering encouragement and practical advice to young leaders who are stepping into ministry and seeking to serve faithfully. https://www.cstone.church/leadership/ The Saltbox podcast - https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/saltbox-a-cstone-church-podcast--5016338

In this episode of Next Step Leadership Podcast, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds welcome Pastor Clay Dial for a conversation about calling, faith, and the journey of a young minister. Clay shares his personal story of coming to love Jesus and sensing God’s call on his life. He reflects on the experiences that shaped his faith, including his time at Emmanuel University, and how those years helped prepare him for ministry. This conversation offers insight into the formation of a new generation of leaders and the passion that continues to guide Clay’s work today. https://www.cstone.church/leadership/ The Saltbox podcast - https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/saltbox-a-cstone-church-podcast--5016338

Continuing the conversation, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds talk with Peter Greer about long-term leadership health, accountability, and resilience. This episode focuses on his book How Leaders Lose Their Way: And How to Make Sure It Doesn’t Happen to You. Greer provides practical ways leaders can remain grounded amid pressure, success, and responsibility. Learn from conversations about pastoral and leadership pressure, and how no one expected to make the poor choices they made. Peter offers wisdom on shared leadership, spiritual and emotional safeguards, and the habits that help leaders stay faithful over the long haul. Listeners will be encouraged to lead with humility, integrity, and a renewed commitment to sustainable, Christ-centered leadership. https://www.peterkgreer.com/ https://www.peterkgreer.com/books/ https://www.hopeinternational.org/

In this episode, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds welcome global leader and author Peter Greer for an honest discussion about leadership calling, drift, and integrity. Drawing from How Leaders Lose Their Way: And How to Make Sure It Doesn’t Happen to You, Peter shares insights from his leadership journey and research into the subtle patterns that often lead leaders off course. Leadership can be a dangerous place to live. We can learn from the failures of others. The conversation explores warning signs of drift, the dangers of isolation, and the importance of accountability in sustaining faithful leadership over time. Peter encourages us to not just know what others have done wrong, but to humbly make sure it doesn't happen to us.  https://www.peterkgreer.com/ https://www.peterkgreer.com/books/ https://www.hopeinternational.org/

We often forget that questions can shape culture, faith, and community. In this follow-up conversation, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds continue their dialogue with J.R. Briggs, focusing on how better questions shape organizational culture, spiritual formation, and community life. J.R. reflects on how curiosity builds trust, prevents isolation, and creates environments where people feel heard and valued. The episode offers practical wisdom for leaders seeking to cultivate thoughtful teams, healthier conversations, and deeper faith through intentional questioning rather than quick conclusions. The Art of Asking Better Questions: Pursuing Stronger Relationships, Healthier Leadership, and Deeper Faith is a book needed in today's culture.  Kairos Partnerships - https://www.kairospartnerships.org/about Resilient Leaders Podcast - https://www.kairospartnerships.org/podcasts https://www.amazon.com/stores/J.-R.-Briggs/author/B001K8DD78?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=7dc495b0-1344-467d-aa98-1d5dc5aeae18

In this episode, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds welcome pastor and author J.R. Briggs for a rich conversation about curiosity, calling, and the transformative role of questions in leadership and faith. Drawing from The Art of Asking Better Questions: Pursuing Stronger Relationships, Healthier Leadership, and Deeper Faith, J.R. shares his personal journey and the experiences that shaped his pastoral heart and leadership philosophy. The discussion highlights why leaders often default to answers instead of questions and how curiosity can strengthen relationships, deepen faith, and foster healthier leadership cultures. Welcome curiosity. And be ready for interesting, inspiring, and challenging questions--too often forgotten in this world of brief, shallow chats.  Kairos Partnerships - https://www.kairospartnerships.org/about Resilient Leaders Podcast - https://www.kairospartnerships.org/podcasts https://www.amazon.com/stores/J.-R.-Briggs/author/B001K8DD78?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=7dc495b0-1344-467d-aa98-1d5dc5aeae18