S5 | Ep 15 - A Very Momentum Christmas (Feat. Donny Varney)
Momentum Ministry Partners Podcast
Release Date: 12/26/2025
Momentum Ministry Partners Podcast
Ministry isn’t just hard—it can hit harder than you ever expected. In this episode, Eric sits down with Jeff Bogue to talk about something every pastor and ministry leader will face, but few are prepared for: how to take a hit… and keep going. From criticism and conflict to betrayal and burnout, Jeff shares real stories from over 30 years in ministry—and the hard-earned wisdom that’s helped him stay in the fight. If you’ve ever felt blindsided, discouraged, or ready to quit, this conversation will help you reset your expectations, refocus your calling, and find the resolve to keep...
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In this episode of the Momentum Podcast, Eric sits down with Keith Minier to talk about leadership, calling, and what it takes to build something that lasts. From starting as a student at Momentum to now leading a thriving multi-site church, Keith shares the behind-the-scenes of a 20+ year journey—how he discerned God’s direction, chose obedience over opportunity, and stayed committed to the same church through every season of growth. Check out www.buildmomentum.org to learn more about our organization and how we seek to partner with local churches in order to equip today's young Christian...
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Faith isn’t fading—but something is shifting. And a lot of leaders are asking: is this revival… or something else? In this episode, Eric sits down with Jeff to talk through what’s really happening across the country as more people—especially Gen Z—turn toward spirituality. From rising church attendance to increased Bible engagement, they unpack what may be a growing spiritual awakening and how it’s different from true revival. In this episode you’ll hear: What’s driving the current spiritual hunger in culture 🌎 The difference between revival and spiritual awakening 🔥...
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Faith isn’t falling apart—but a lot of students aren’t sure what to do with the questions they’re asking. In this episode, Eric Miller sits down with Alisa Childers—author, speaker, and former member of ZOEgirl—to talk through doubt, truth, and what’s really happening behind the rise of progressive Christianity. From her own faith crisis to what she’s seeing in students today, Alisa brings clarity to conversations many leaders feel unprepared for. In this episode you’ll hear: Why asking hard questions is actually essential to a strong faith 💭 The difference between honest...
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The role of the youth pastor has changed—and it’s happening faster than most realize. It’s no longer just pizza and games. Today’s youth leaders are navigating mental health, digital discipleship, identity, and culture-shaping conversations with students who are growing up faster than ever. In this episode, Josh Griffin shares what’s changed in youth ministry, what hasn’t, and how leaders can adapt without losing sight of what matters most. In this episode you’ll hear: Why middle school (and even younger) is now the front line of ministry 📚 How phones and digital culture are...
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In this episode of the Momentum Ministry Partners Podcast, Eric sits down with Corbin Hogue, pastor of One Community Church in Greenville, South Carolina, during a powerful week at Momentum Youth Conference. Together they talk about what it’s been like to witness a genuine move of God as hundreds of students respond to the Gospel, confess sin, and take steps of faith alongside their youth groups. Corbin also shares a preview of the message he’s bringing to close out the week, challenging students to live all out for Jesus when they return home. Corbin opens up about his own journey—from...
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In this episode of the Momentum Ministry Partners Podcast, Eric sits down with Kevin Butcher, longtime pastor, author of Free: Rescued from Shame-Based Religion, and founder of Rooted Pastors. Kevin shares his story of pastoring for more than three decades while quietly carrying the weight of shame, performance, and exhaustion—and the moment that forced him to confront the emptiness behind ministry success. From there, he walks through how God began reshaping his understanding of love, identity, and what it really means to live free in Christ. Along the way, Eric and Kevin talk about the...
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In this episode, Eric Miller sits down with Newt Larson—longtime pastor, former CE National director (now Momentum Ministry Partners), author, and trusted coach to pastors across the country. Knute reflects on a lifetime of pastoral leadership, including 26 years at The Chapel in Akron, Ohio, and years of ministry in Ashland. Together, they talk candidly about what leadership really feels like behind the scenes—making big decisions while still feeling “scared,” learning dependence on the Lord, and choosing what’s best for the church over what looks impressive. They also dig...
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Eric Miller sits down with Dr. Randy Smith, senior pastor of Neighborhood Church in Sebring, Florida, founder of Great Commission Bible Institute, and director of the Christian Travel Studies Program, for a candid conversation on the Middle East, the church, and how pastors can lead with clarity in a confusing cultural moment. Randy helps cut through oversimplified narratives and algorithm-driven opinions, offering a framework for understanding the layers behind modern conflicts while keeping the main thing the main thing: starting with God’s Word, not cable news. He challenges pastors to...
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In this episode of the Momentum Ministry Partners Podcast, Eric sits down with Clancy Cruise and Jeremey Bury, the pastors behind Marysville Grace, Momentum’s 2025 Church of the Year. Together, they share the story of Marysville Grace from its early days as a church plant to becoming a thriving, multiplying church rooted in trust, unity, and long-term faithfulness. Clancy reflects on what it looks like to plant a church, raise up leaders from within, and remain on staff with humility after handing off the lead pastor role. Jeremey walks through his unexpected journey from worship pastor to...
info_outlineIt’s the holiday season 🎄—and we’re doing things a little differently. Eric is joined by Donny Varney for a relaxed, joy-filled conversation. Together, they reflect on the past year, talk about what it’s been like stepping into new seasons of ministry, and share why this time of year invites both gratitude and hope. It’s honest, lighthearted, and deeply encouraging—without trying to rush past the pause that Christmas gives us.
Whether you’re listening between family gatherings, on a quiet post-Christmas walk, or while taking down decorations, this episode is meant to remind you that God is still at work—and there’s a lot to be thankful for. Press play, settle in, and enjoy a little extended Christmas cheer with Momentum this week. 🎁✨
Check out www.buildmomentum.org to learn more about our organization and how we seek to partner with local churches in order to equip today's young Christian leaders for tomorrow's opportunities.
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