
Decisions: A Dunham+Company Podcast
Dunham+Company Podcast NetworkLeadership & Ministry · Every two weeksDecisions, a podcast brought to you by the Dunham Podcast Network and hosted by Trent Dunham, seeks to engage change agents around the world who are leading organizations through vital seasons or are facing inflection points where key decisions are likely to change the direction and future of their leadership and the organization. DECISIONS matter and we can learn a lot from how other leaders have leaned into decisive moments in their lives!
Episodes
126- · 31 minBuilding Bridges Through Apologetics
In this compelling episode of the Decisions podcast, we’re excited to connect with Lindsey Medenwaldt as she takes us through her personal journey into apologetics and the inspiration behind her new book, Bridge-Building Apologetics: How to Get Along Even When We Disagree. Her insights will empower you to engage in meaningful conversations about faith and belief, even when opinions clash. Lindsey emphasizes the importance of standing firm in your faith while fostering better relationships through civil discourse. Whether you’re familiar with apologetics or just curious about bridging divides, this episode is sure to inspire you. Listen now to discover how personal experiences can shape public discussions and strengthen your convictions.
- · 29 minWhat Does Freedom Really Mean? | Dan Chung
On this episode of the Decisions Podcast, Jonathan Pitts sits down with Dan Chung, co-founder and executive director of Crossing Borders, who has spent more than 20 years serving North Korean refugees. Dan shares the story that first opened his eyes to the human reality behind the headlines, the extraordinary risks refugees take to find freedom, and the trauma many carry even after reaching safety. Together, Jonathan and Dan explore what freedom really means, how suffering changes the way we see gratitude and dignity, and why Dan’s years of serving refugees have changed his own understanding of ambition, family, faith, and what it means to make a difference. If you’ve ever wondered how to keep moving forward when life feels uncertain, how to faithfully pursue the work God has placed on your heart, or how to balance waiting on God with taking practical steps toward your passions, this conversation is for you.
- · 31 minDiscovering Purpose in Seasons of Waiting
We’re joined by Rebecca George, a podcaster, speaker, and author of You're Not Too Late. Through her podcast Radical Radiance and her writing, Rebecca inspires others to pursue their passions with gospel-centered hope and purpose. Rebecca shares her deeply personal story of navigating life’s transitions, from moving to a new town to starting her podcast during a season of change. She discusses how God used challenging circumstances to open doors for creativity and growth, and how leaders can find purpose and joy in seasons of uncertainty. If you’ve ever wondered how to keep moving forward when life feels uncertain or how to balance waiting on God while taking practical steps toward your passions, this conversation is for you.
- · 25 minWhy Freedom Is Worth the Cost
In this episode of the Decisions Podcast, Jonathan Pitts sits down with economist, educator, and author Larry Reed to explore the convictions behind his lifelong commitment to liberty. From decades spent teaching and leading think tanks to defending free enterprise, Larry shares the experiences that shaped his worldview. Drawing from his new book, Born of Ideas: How Principles, Faith, and Courage Forged America, Larry explores the ideas and principles that shaped America, including the Mayflower Compact, the influence of faith and the Great Awakening, and the role of individual freedom in the American founding. Jonathan and Larry also wrestle with timely questions about privacy, technology, AI, community, and what it means to think freely in an increasingly complex world. Tune in for a conversation about history, faith, courage, freedom, and the responsibility we each have to think for ourselves and help build a society where others are free to do the same.
- · 27 minThe Power of Kingdom Connection
What if advancing the Kingdom starts with simply connecting the right people? In this episode of the Decisions Podcast, Jonathan Pitts sits down with Charlie Burke, a pastor, church planter, and global Kingdom connector, to talk about the power of relationships in leadership. They explore what it means to lead with integrity, kindness, trust, and a willingness to put others before yourself. Charlie shares why safe leaders matter, how to become a “hero maker” rather than the hero of your own story, and why making room for relationships that don’t immediately benefit you can have a lasting Kingdom impact. Whether you lead a nonprofit, church, or business, this conversation is for you.
- · 36 minStrengthening Your Core: Inside-Out Leadership | Matt Paden
What does it really take to become a leader who makes a lasting impact? In this episode of the Decisions Podcast, Jonathan sits down with Matt Paden, president and managing partner of Great Days Leadership and author of The Core: Eight Principles for Building Strong, Authentic Leadership, to explore why great leadership starts from the inside out. Matt shares how his grandfather’s powerful reminder—that there are “two great days” in life, the day you’re born and the day you realize why you were born—shaped his understanding of purpose and leadership. He also opens up about how difficult seasons can reveal our character and why leaders must continually strengthen their “core” before the next storm arrives. Whether you lead a nonprofit, church, business, team, or family, this conversation offers practical encouragement for becoming a more authentic and purpose-driven leader that makes a lasting impact.
- · 37 minHaving Hard Conversations [REBROADCAST]
Hot-button issues dominating our culture can make speaking out feel taboo. Hiding from hard conversations won’t work. On this episode of the Decisions Podcast, Mike Novotny discusses his newest book, Taboo: Topics Christians Should be Talking About but Don’t, and equips listeners to have hard conversations in a redemptive way. In Taboo, author Mike Novotny covers deeply personal, vulnerable, and emotional topics, handling them with grace and respect. It’s the ultimate resource for Christians looking to create change and deal with struggles in their own lives. God’s Word gives us clarity, healing, and hope. Taboo is a must-read for Christians looking for a biblically based resource to modern questions. Not talking is not helping! It’s time for believers to step gracefully into the taboo and share God’s truth with a world in need. Mike is the lead speaker for Time of Grace, a global media ministry that is committed to ensuring that God’s grace—His love, glory, and power—is accessible around the world
- · 16 minMoving Through Life’s Seasons [REBROADCAST]
On this episode of Decisions, Trent Dunham sits down with pastor and author Levi Lusko, who shares a deeply personal conversation about navigating life’s seasons. This includes the lessons he learned during a challenging midlife period and how he’s using those experiences now to inspire others. Together, Trent and Levi explore topics such as finding identity in God rather than worldly achievements, stewarding life’s scars for impact, and understanding the rhythms and seasons of our lives. Levi also offers a preview of his upcoming book, Blessed Are The Spiraling, packed with insights designed to help readers find clarity, purpose, and hope in seasons of uncertainty. Whether you're stepping into a new stage of life, wrestling with challenges, or looking to deepen your faith, this episode offers practical wisdom and encouragement.
- · 28 minHow to Achieve Personal and Professional Life Balance
In this enlightening episode, Jonathan Pitts welcomes esteemed guest, Debra Fileta – a licensed professional counselor, national speaker, and author of bestsellers like Are You Really Okay? Debra shares insights from her counseling practice, emphasizing the importance of maintaining balance in our personal and professional lives. Drawing from her own experiences, she discusses the power of boundaries, the significance of honoring one's humanity, and how to manage burnout effectively by using six rhythms. Whether you're a leader, a parent, or someone seeking a more fulfilled life, this episode offers valuable takeaways for anyone who wants to live with intention and joy. Don't miss this candid discussion about growth, healing, and how small steps can lead to profound transformations.
- · 29 minTrusting God and Leading Faithfully [REBROADCAST]
In this heartfelt episode of the Decisions Podcast, host Trent Dunham sits down with Pastor Ricky Jenkins of Southwest Church in Palm Springs, California, to explore his incredible journey of faith, leadership, and perseverance. From his roots in Mississippi as a fourth-generation pastor to leading a vibrant church in the Coachella Valley, Ricky shares how God has shaped his path through pivotal moments and challenges. Together, they discuss the importance of staying faithful to God’s calling, the power of community impact, and the lessons learned from seasons of growth and hardship. Whether you’re a leader, pastor, or someone seeking encouragement in your own journey, this episode will inspire you to trust God, embrace the process, and never quit. Tune in for a story of resilience, vision, and Kingdom impact!
- · 42 minTurning Adversity into Mission [REBROADCAST]
In this impactful episode of the Decisions podcast, we’re thrilled to sit down with Colton Kyle, son of the legendary American Sniper, Chris Kyle. Colton shares his journey growing up under his father's immense legacy and the unique challenges he faced along the way. He is committed to continuing his father's mission, extending beyond the book "American Sniper" to actively support veterans and first responders, ensuring their sacrifices are honored. Whether you know Chris Kyle's story or not, Colton's insights will inspire you and highlight the lasting impact of a legacy grounded in faith and service. Tune in to explore the vital connection between personal struggle, public duty, and unwavering belief
- · 36 minParenting in the Digital Age
In this eye-opening episode of the Decisions Podcast, host Jonathan Pitts dives into the challenges and opportunities of parenting in the digital age. As a father navigating two very different generations—Gen Z daughters and a Gen Alpha son—Jonathan reflects on the lessons learned and the new realities of raising kids in a world dominated by technology. Joining him is Chris McKenna, founder of Protect Young Eyes and a nationally recognized expert in digital safety. Chris shares his journey from corporate risk management to ministry and his mission to equip families with practical tools to navigate the digital minefield. Together, they discuss the dangers of the digital ecosystem, the rise of AI, and how parents and leaders can take actionable steps to protect and guide the next generation. Tune in for a conversation packed with wisdom, practical advice, and hope for thriving in a tech-driven world.
- · 34 minFinding Joy and Simplicity in Prayer
In this heartfelt episode of the Decisions Podcast, host Jonathan Pitts welcomes his longtime friend and colleague, Matt Smallbone. Matt is a pastor, author, and former touring musician who has spent decades leading and inspiring others. As the lead pastor of Church of the City in downtown Nashville, Matt brings warmth, joy, and authenticity to every room he enters. Together, they dive into Matt’s journey from touring the world as a bass player to pastoring a fast-growing congregation, and the pivotal moments that shaped his leadership. They also explore the inspiration behind Matt’s new book, The Prayer Experiment, which unpacks his personal struggle with prayer and how he found a simple, transformative way to connect with God. Tune in for an honest and encouraging conversation about leadership, prayer, and finding joy in the midst of life’s complexities.
- · 35 minNavigating Leadership, Calling, and Transitions
In this episode of the Decisions Podcast, host Jonathan Pitts sits down with Brad Lomenick, leadership consultant, author, and former president of Catalyst, to explore the pivotal decisions that have shaped his life and leadership journey. From his early days as a wrangler at Lost Valley Ranch to leading one of the most influential leadership movements in the church world. Brad shares the lessons he’s learned about calling, identity, and navigating seasons of transition. Together, they discuss the importance of stewarding influence, building meaningful connections, and embracing the assignments that lead to clarity and purpose. Whether you’re a young leader seeking direction or a seasoned one navigating change, this episode is packed with wisdom and encouragement to help you lead with clarity, character, and conviction. Tune in for a conversation that will challenge and inspire you to embrace your calling and steward your influence well!
- · 41 minRedefining Money: Purpose, Faith, and Flourishing
In this insightful episode of the Decisions podcast, Jonathan Pitts sits down with John Coleman, Managing Partner of Sovereign’s Capital, to explore the intersection of faith, purpose, and finance. John shares his journey from corporate success to aligning his professional and personal life with his values, and how that led to his latest book, Good Money. Together, they discuss redefining our relationship with money, the importance of purpose-driven investing, and how to shift from chasing wealth to pursuing human flourishing. John also unpacks practical insights on saving for freedom, defining “enough,” and teaching the next generation about generosity and stewardship. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that will challenge you to rethink how money shapes your life and purpose!
- · 36 minNavigating Change with Faith and Purpose
In this episode of the Decisions Podcast, host Jonathan Pitts sits down with Matt Davis, President of Ministry Transitions, to explore the pivotal moments that shape leaders and organizations. With over 25 years of faith-based executive leadership, Matt shares his personal journey through ministry, moral failure, and redemption, offering wisdom on navigating transitions with grace and purpose. Together, they discuss how leaders can prepare for seasons of change, the importance of honoring people during transitions, and how God’s faithfulness is evident even in the wilderness. Whether you’re facing a transition or supporting someone who is, this episode is packed with hope, practical insights, and encouragement. Tune in for an honest and inspiring conversation about leadership, humility, and the God who works in every season!
- · 39 minRediscovering Faith Through Beauty
In this thought-provoking episode of the Decisions Podcast, host Jonathan Pitts welcomes Josh Nadeau, philosopher, artist, and founder of Sword and Pencil. Together, they explore the intersection of theology, art, and culture, diving into how beauty, truth, and virtue shape our faith and daily lives. Josh shares his personal journey from spiritual exhaustion to rediscovering the richness of the Nicene Creed and the transformative power of beauty as an apologetic in a chaotic, disembodied world. They discuss his new book, Heaven Meets Earth: A 40-Day Devotional Journey Through the Nicene Creed, and how it offers a stabilizing rhythm for believers seeking spiritual grounding and renewal. Tune in for a conversation that will inspire you to reimagine your faith through the lens of beauty, wonder, and ancient truths!
- · 25 minSin, Culture, and the Church Today
In this episode of the Decisions Podcast, host Trent Dunham welcomes Adam Rasmussen from the Cultural Research Center at Arizona Christian University to discuss the shifting perceptions of sin in America. Building on a previous conversation from 2023, Adam shares new research that explores how Americans define sin, the cultural and generational factors influencing these views, and the implications for the church and society. Together, they dive into the challenges of biblical illiteracy, the rise of syncretism, and the critical need for discipleship within the church. Adam also highlights encouraging trends, including how intentional teaching environments can foster a stronger biblical worldview. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on faith, culture, and the role of the church in shaping a biblical understanding of sin and morality.
- · 39 minLiving Boldly: Identity in Christ
In this powerful episode of the Decisions Podcast, host Jonathan Pitts sits down with Carl Joseph, pastor, teacher, and author of Lionheart: Unleash the Warrior Within. Together, they explore the transformative power of knowing your identity in Christ and how a lack of identity leads to a lack of spiritual authority. Carl shares his journey from a successful career in petroleum engineering to full-time ministry, offering insights on how pivotal decisions shaped his faith and calling. Discover how understanding your identity as forgiven, justified, and empowered in Christ can unlock courage and clarity in a complicated world. This episode is packed with practical wisdom for leaders, believers, and anyone seeking to live boldly for God. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about faith, identity, and living with conviction!
- · 27 minInsights to Meaningful Worship Experiences
In this episode of the Decisions Podcast, host Jonathan Pitts sits down with Toby Walters, founder and CEO of ChurchGear, to explore how God uses unexpected paths to fulfill His purpose in our lives. Toby shares his journey from growing up in the church to becoming a key figure in helping churches steward their production gear, ensuring resources are used to create meaningful worship experiences. Together, they discuss the importance of stewardship, the evolving role of production in worship, and the power of authentic community in the church. Whether you’re a pastor, worship leader, or simply passionate about the local church, this conversation will inspire you to see how God can use every decision and detour for His glory.