Rocky Unscripted

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Take 5 minutes, find a quiet time, and listen to a helpful reflection on the hope that God wants to bring into our lives.

We begin a series of short episodes that explore a passage of scripture, how we can apply it, and a time of prayer.

We all struggle with seasons of worry and fear. These emotions can wreak havoc in our personal, work, and spiritual lives. But do we realize that we don't have to be slaves to these emotions? Jesus and his Gospel is here and available to help ease our worries and help give us comfort over fear. We can live confident and bold lives if we place our faith in Jesus. Today's episode offers shows us how.

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When we talk about values in an organization, it is common for people to lose interest. Do we really care what values Target, Apple, or other well-known businesses strive for? Possibly not. However, when you are considering whether or not you want to align your time, money and energy with an organization, it becomes more important to understand what they are driven by. Over the next 4 episodes, Unscripted will cover 4 values that Rocky embraces. It is our hope that you will be inspired and you will decide to partner with us in all 4 values.

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Part 9 of our 9 part series on Enneagram Subtypes. This week we talk to Matt and Nicole, enneagram type 9's, as we learn more about subtypes and what they can tell us. It is one thing to read a description of the various types on the enneagram, it is another thing entirely to hear the stories from real people. We hope you find the episode helpful and if you do...share it:). We would love to help as many as we can in their journey towards greater health.

Part 8 of our 9 part series on Enneagram Subtypes. This week we talk to Amanda and Matt, enneagram type 8's, as we learn more about subtypes and what they can tell us. It is one thing to read a description of the various types on the enneagram, it is another thing entirely to hear the stories from real people. We hope you find the episode helpful and if you do...share it:). We would love to help as many as we can in their journey towards greater health.

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Part 7 of our 9 part series on Enneagram Subtypes. This week we talk to Kelley and Dane, enneagram type 7's, as we learn more about subtypes and what they can tell us. It is one thing to read a description of the various types on the enneagram, it is another thing entirely to hear the stories from real people. We hope you find the episode helpful and if you do...share it:). We would love to help as many as we can in their journey towards greater health.

Part 6 of our 9 part series on Enneagram Subtypes. This week we talk to Kelly and Tonya, enneagram type 6's, as we learn more about subtypes and what they can tell us. It is one thing to read a description of the various types on the enneagram, it is another thing entirely to hear the stories from real people. We hope you find the episode helpful and if you do...share it:). We would love to help as many as we can in their journey towards greater health.

Part 5 of our 9 part series on Enneagram Subtypes. This week we talk to Jori and Becky, enneagram type 5’s, as we learn more about subtypes and what they can tell us. It is one thing to read a description of the various types on the enneagram, it is another thing entirely to hear the stories from real people. We hope you find the episode helpful and if you do...share it:). We would love to help as many as we can in their journey towards greater health.

Our first REPLAY episode! We wanted to take a quick break from our current Enneagram Subtype Series to replay our most listened to podcast on our show. Many of you are new to our podcast, and we wanted to make sure you had a chance to listen to the episode people have found to be very helpful.

In this episode, Nic talks with Shan and special guest Michael Behmer about the practical ways of forgiveness.  Michael is a Marriage and Family Counselor and founder of Aspen Mental Health Group in Colorado.  He specializes in working alongside those who have been hit relationally and professionally by trauma, grief and loss. Needless to say, he has seen many circumstances of intense hurting and pain, and helped many see a pathway towards healing.  

Forgiveness is a necessary and incredibly important practice that everyone benefits from, yet often struggles with.  We have distorted views on what it means to forgive and what is required to forgive that often leads us away from what God wants for us.  

Life is hard.  People will hurt us.  Forgiveness needs to be a central part in everyones life.  We hope that this conversation helps on that journey.  

email info@rocky.church for any questions/suggestions for the podcast

If you want to pursue additional information regarding counseling, you can Contact Michael ⁠here⁠.  

Part 2 of our 9 part series on Enneagram Subtypes. This week we talk to Makenzie and Denyse, enneagram type 2's, as we learn more about subtypes and what they can tell us. One thing that is clear early in the conversation is that belonging and the desire to help others is central to the type 2. It is one thing to read a description of the various types on the enneagram, it is another thing entirely to hear the stories from real people. We hope you find the episode helpful and if you do...share it:). We would love to help as many as we can in their journey towards greater health.

In Today's Episode, Mitch and Nic sit with Shelby and Joel to discuss enneagram type 1's. Specifically, they cover how the instincts of Self-Preservation, Social, and One to One affect the overall experience being and/or living with a Type 1. The conversation delves into the helpfulness and productivity that this personality style can bring as well as the shadow side of living under the tyranny of the "internal critic". Finally, Mitch offers practical advice for any type 1 to try out in order to take a step towards greater health.

Mitch and Nic provide an introduction to our 9-Part Series on Enneagram Subtypes. It can be confusing to wrap our minds around some of the vocabulary and the dynamics between types, instincts and ultimately, subtypes. However, if you're willing to do the work, diving into Enneagram instincts can help you understand yourself and others on new levels. This could be the launching point for you to experience your greatest growth.

Today is part 2 of a 2 part series on staff values at Rocky.  Mitch and Amanda discuss how we developed our last 3 of 6 values that have helped shape our staff culture.  In addition, we discuss the difference between types of values.  Core, aspirational, permission to play, and even accidental.  You don’t really want to have accidental values hint hint.  Hope you enjoy the show and find it helpful!

We have often talked about the "why" of our church and staff values. However, we have never gone step by step through the practical "what" of each one. In this week's episode, Amanda, Shan and Nic discuss the reasons why we have the staff values we have. This is a 2 part series where we break down values 1,2, and 3. In next week's Episode, we will tackled 4, 5, and 6.

Whenever you hear about spiritual warfare, angels and demons; it can be easy to brush off the conversation as taboo or even just silly. However, Shan, Nic and Matt talk about the reality of spiritual warfare in everyday life and how we can recognize it. More importantly, when we partner with and trust in God for every need, we have nothing to be afraid of.

Today Shan and Nic sit down with Steve Cuss, the author of the amazing book, Managing Leadership Anxiety: Yours and Theirs.  Steve comes with an incredible amount of experience as a former Hospital chaplain where he saw first hand the affects of acute trauma and helped guide families through their darkest days.  As you could imagine, Steve witnessed first hand how life experiences create and spread anxiety from person to person.  However, he was surprised to become more aware of his own anxiety and stress that could affect the families he was caring for.  This was the beginning of his study of anxiety and how the Gospel of Jesus can bring healing and respite in the middle of it all.  

Shan shares of his family's battles with cancer and the reality of the unknown. How do you keep praying when prayer feels like a perpetual "groundhog day"; where each prayer reminds you of roads you've already travelled? How do you pray for and with your kids? How do you maintain faith while you face opposition? Amanda and Nic add insight from their own experiences as they discuss difficult topics.

Shan and Nic talk with Cindy Fiala about how values can change the culture of your work and home. They discuss practical things like the difference between missional statements and cultural values. Also, how can you tell if your organization has healthy or unhealthy conflict? The conversation moves beyond helping your organization thrive, it delves into how to bring health and peace to your families.

Cindy Fiala has worked in the church for over 30 years; as a volunteer, Children's Director, Family Pastor and most recently as an Executive Pastor of Ministries. She is the founder and owner of Collective Co., a coaching and consulting group that works with leaders to help their teams be more effective and productive through clarity and alignment. Her passion is to see people lead and live wholehearted lives at home and at work.  She and her husband John live in Colorado with their two dogs. They have three grown kids, two bonus kids (married into their family) and six grandkids.

Connect with Cindy here!

This episode is #4 of a 4 part series based on a 4-week sermon series at Rocky Mountain Christian Church.  In this episode, Mitch walks through the practice of S.O.A.R.  and how it can take your past and lead you to a more healthy future.  Enjoy this enlightening exploration into the enneagram and path toward self-awareness.

For More, Visit : Ennealeadershipcoaching.com

To purchase the book mentioned in this episode, visit : Ian Cron's Website

This episode is #3 of a 4 part series based on a 4-week sermon series at Rocky Mountain Christian Church.  Each episode, Nic and Mitch will look at 3 different Enneagram numbers and how our past shapes our present.  However, through self-discovery, prayer, and healing, our past does not have to affect our future in the same ways.  Enjoy this enlightening exploration into the enneagram and path toward self-awareness.

This episode is #2 of a 4 part series based on a 4-week sermon series at Rocky Mountain Christian Church.  Each episode, Nic and Mitch will look at 3 different Enneagram numbers and how our past shapes our present.  However, through self-discovery, prayer, and healing, our past does not have to affect our future in the same ways.  Enjoy this enlightening exploration into the enneagram and path toward self-awareness.

This episode is 1 of a 4 part series based on a 4-week sermon series at Rocky Mountain Christian Church.  Each episode, Nic and Mitch will look at 3 different Enneagram numbers and how our past shapes our present.  However, through self-discovery, prayer, and healing, our past does not have to affect our future in the same ways.  Enjoy this enlightening exploration into the enneagram and path toward self-awareness.  

Starting next week, we are taking a deeper dive into how our past affects our future!  Make you join us for all 4 episodes that cover each enneagram personality type as well as a practical final episode on what steps to take.  

In today’s story of Grit we sit down with Jana Matthews, who is a long-time partner at Rocky. Jana has been a friend of Amanda’s for years, and has recently dealt with a series of overwhelming diagnoses that would often be too much for many of us. Her unique experience with illness, hardship, depression and ultimately renewed faith in God is why we want you to hear her story today. 

Every time we set a goal, there is potential for success and failure.  For many of us that are participating in the 52 Grit Challenge, we've probably experienced a little of both.  In reality, we face much more life-changing decisions that are influenced by previous successes, failures and regrets.  Today, we discuss the best ways to fail FORWARD into better decisions in the future.  How do you pick yourself up?  How do you know when it's time to leave a job, relationship, or situation?  All these questions and more are discussed in this week's episode.  

Jack Nugent has had his ups and downs with owning and operating businesses.  Sometimes, he had to learn life's big lessons the hard way.  Jack tells stories of failing, of succeeding; of almost getting arrested for an illegal business he started in his teens, of avoiding fist fights in the pit when he raced Nascar, and of finding his soulmate, Karla.  There's almost no end to the stories Jack can tell, yet they all have 1 thing in common: Grit.  If you've met Jack, you've met someone who knows how to use "streetsmarts", reliance on God, and commitment to his family to exemplify grit.  Today's conversations is inspirational and we hope you enjoy!

The biggest threat to developing Grit is discouragement.  Discouragement can come in many forms, but is often picked up when we receive criticism.  Unfortunately, the old adage of "everyone's a critic" is often true.  Matt, Shan, and Nic discuss personal times they have experienced criticism and how that affected previous decisions.  It is important to learn how to positively handle criticism and perhaps more importantly, the best ways to offer criticism.  It IS possible to grow in both of these areas and today's episode shares some practical thoughts on how we can do that.  

Shan, Amanda and Nic discuss key principles from Rocky's current teaching series called Grit.  We believe we are capable of so much more than we realize because we haven't developed a greater sense of Grit in our lives.  That is the ability to choose hard things for a greater goal.  However, the fear churches often have is that we don't want to push ourselves into "self-help" strategies that move us further away from dependence on God.  What is the balance?  Where is the line?  

Let's begin Rocky Unscripted 2023 the right way!  Shan, Matt, Amanda and Nic take time took look back at several highlights of 2022.  However, it's not just about listing facts and numbers; all of these highlights are personal.  Additionally, Shan shares insight into finding balance between being content and yearning for more.  Thank you for being faithful listeners and subscribers, we can't wait to bring more incredible conversations throughout 2023.  

Today Matt Cote and Nic Carver talk with Mike Sanford, the recent Head Football Coach at the University of Colorado. Mike has 17 years of experience coaching football in top Schools across the country. His resume is incredible and his experience leads to some great conversation. One thing that everyone realizes when they meet Mike is that he’s an incredible guy with lots of energy and positivity. Mike faced a big challenge this year as he took over the head coaching position in the middle of an 0-5 season. He had to lead through personal disappointment, unanswered questions, and focus in on what is truly most important. You’ll hear it in this episode clearly, Mike LOVES the players he coaches and it’s clear that he has made a big impact in their lives. Today, you're going to hear about the role faith plays in Mike’s life, as well as strong leadership lessons that we can all learn from. Mike is a great guy to be around and that’ll be clear in this episode. 

Everyone has experienced the challenges of the holidays.  Unmet expectations, illnesses, and family feuds are all realities that we face year after year.  However, there are things that we can do to avoid some of these traps and have a much healthier and happier holiday.  Amanda and Nic Carver talk about some of their own challenges they've faced, and how they have learned a few ways to help.  Thank you for listening to Rocky Unscripted and we hope you have a wonderful and blessed Christmas season!

When you read the Bible, you see a tension between God's Grace, and our good deeds.  Which one is most important?  In the last several Sunday Messages at Rocky, we have learned that grace cannot be achieved; it can only be received.  It is unearned and unmerited.  However, we have also heard the Apostle James say that faith without works is dead.  Can faith alone save us?  Can faith be alive without works?  In this Episode; Matt, Mitch, and Nic discuss several points of this conversations including the tensions that it brings.  They also look at each Enneagram number and how we all struggle to accept grace in our own unique ways.  

If you'd like to hear Mitch and Nic discuss the Enneagram in greater detail, listen to Episode 225, or : Click Here

We love the holidays!  However,  Thanksgiving and Christmas can bring lots of challenges along with all of the great times.  In preparation for that, we want to help give you some practical steps that we can all put into practice to help us THRIVE during this season. Today, we bring back Michael Behmer, the founder of Aspen mental health services.  He provides incredible insight into what we experience during this time of year. Things like expectations, nostalgia, family dynamics, and poor life choices when it comes to food and drink.  Grab a pen to take notes because you will want to use the tips we talk about today!

If you are interested to learn more about professional therapy, we thoroughly recommend it!  For more information, contact Michael Behmer and his team here.  

Today Nic and Mitch sit with Derek Voorhees to discuss reading the Bible.  Many people agree that we should read the Bible as part of our growth and understanding of God, however, it can be confusing to know where to begin, how to understand it, and how to stay engaged as we move forward in our faith.  Derek is the president of Boise Bible College and holds degrees from Ozark Christian College as well as a Doctorate from Dallas Theological Seminary and he humbly provides direction and how to overcome these challenges.  It is a great conversation that we have found helpful and we're excited to share with you.  

If you're listening near the time of this podcast's original air date (Oct. 31, 2022) register for the Seminar with Derek HERE: 

We are giving everyone a special sneak peek into Rocky Worship's third new single from their upcoming album "Where You Are."  The album won't be released until November 4th, so this first listen is a great way to get excited about what's ahead.  In addition, Nic invites Luke Hall and Dane Voorhees to discuss behind the scenes insight into the writing and producing of the songs.  We feel like these stories help make the music come alive even more.  Enjoy and share with your friends!

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We are giving everyone a special sneak peek into Rocky Worship's first new single from their upcoming album "Where You Are."  The album won't be released until November 4th, so this first listen is a great way to get excited about what's ahead.  In addition, Nic invites Luke Hall and Dane Voorhees to discuss behind the scenes insight into the writing and producing of the songs.  We feel like these stories help make the music come alive even more.  Enjoy and share with your friends!  

Brian Mavis has worked on staff at several churches, yet left Pastoral ministry in order to pursue his spiritual calling.  He began an inspiring personal journey with his wife and kids as they began fostering children through the local social services system.  Throughout the years, they have fostered 9 children and now have had 4 foster "grand-children" as his kids have followed in his footsteps.  However, Brian felt called to equip followers of Jesus to flood the foster care system in order to help eliminate the wait time for children to be placed in nurturing homes.  He is now the President of America's Kids Belong and they have expanded into 10 different states across the country.  Brian's story continues to be an inspiration of how God can use what we have to make a life-changing difference in our communities.  

Visit their website for more info!

America's Kids Belong

It's our worst fear to lose someone we love.  In todays episode, we share an interview with Erle and Helen as they discuss their experience with that very thing.   For many of us, we can only imagine how we will respond when something tragic happens, but today we are able to learn what healing can look like.  It rarely follows a similar path from one person to another, but one thing is clear.  Hope is possible. Not only that, but Joy and Grief are not mutually exclusive.  There can be moments of joy while we grieve the loss of those that we love.  Helen and Erle share about how their faith has been and continues to be vital in the journey of healing.  

Cal Jernigan is the lead Pastor of Central Christian Church in Arizona and has been on staff since 1987.  Shan, Nic, and Cal discuss the pros and cons of longevity in one location, how to push through difficult seasons, and how to balance work and home life.  Cal shares a wealth of wisdom that anyone can apply to their lives as well as practical questions that generate deeper thinking.  It is a great privilege to have him on the show  and we're excited to share it with you.  

Are you unhappy with the performance of your employees or coworkers?  Do you wish you could change the way your family interacts or behaves?  Chances are, you have some unspoken values that are undermining the peace and success of those spaces.  Creating values can help align people to common goals and behaviors that will flip the script.  In today's episode, Shan, Matt and Nic discuss Rocky's church values as well as a few staff values that have helped change the ministry over the past 11 years for the better.  Values determine behavior, and identifying what you want to change is the first step.   

Mitch Comstedt walks us through the 9 Enneagram Types and how each of us brings leadership gifts as well as pitfalls to the workplace.  The more we know about ourselves, we can maximize those gifts, and limit the setbacks we fall into.   Mitch is a certified Enneagram Coach and offers helpful insight into each Enneagram Types.  

Enneagram Resources:

ROAD BACK TO YOU

https://www.amazon.com/Road-Back-You-Enneagram-Self-Discovery/dp/0830846190/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=road+back+to+you+enneagram+book&qid=1651165990&sprefix=road+back+to+y%2Caps%2C127&sr=8-1

WHAT'S YOUR ENNEATYPE?

https://www.amazon.com/Whats-Enneatype-Essential-Guide-Enneagram/dp/1592339522/ref=sr_1_1?crid=281SQ7JPOQ5WV&keywords=enneatype&qid=1651166042&sprefix=enneaty%2Caps%2C102&sr=8-1

THE 9 TYPES OF LEADERSHIP

https://read.amazon.com/kp/embed?asin=B01N7KKJHC&preview=newtab&linkCode=kpe&ref_=cm_sw_r_kb_dp_78K2CZHPHBTFA4CEJGGN

ASSESSMENTS

Also, if you'd like to consult with Mitch Comstedt to coach your organization, check out www.ennealeadershipcoaching.com

Amanda shares her top 3 leadership lessons that she has learned and used over the past 6 months.  

1.  Be Curious

2. What would you do if I was dead?

3. Follow up and Follow Through.

This is a MUST LISTEN to find out the details of how this can shape your leadership for the better!  

Nic talks with Matt Cote, our Frederick Campus Pastor to discuss 3 practical leadership lessons that he has depended on over the past few months.  This approach is intended to be practical over theoretical so that you can take the principles and apply them...NOW.  If you have any questions or suggestions for future episodes, email us at info@rocky.church or contact us through our website.

Nic talks with Shan and special guest Michael Behmer about the practical ways of forgiveness.  Michael is a Marriage and Family Counselor and founder of Aspen Mental Health Group in Colorado.  He specializes in working alongside those who have been hit relationally and professionally by trauma, grief and loss. Needless to say, he has seen many circumstances of intense hurting and pain, and helped many see a pathway towards healing.  

Forgiveness is a necessary and incredibly important practice that everyone benefits from, yet often struggles with.  We have distorted views on what it means to forgive and what is required to forgive that often leads us away from what God wants for us.  

Life is hard.  People will hurt us.  Forgiveness needs to be a central part in everyones life.  We hope that this conversation helps on that journey.  

email info@rocky.church for any questions/suggestions for the podcast

If you want to pursue additional information regarding counseling, you can Contact Michael here.  

Nic, Amanda, and Shan discuss the concept of purity in the Bible.  However, it is a complicated conversation.  You don't have to look far in the Bible to find stories of people struggling with trying to be morally and spiritually pure, only to fail time and time again.  Additionally, there are more stories of people holding their "purity" in high regard to the point of legalism and self-righteousness.  More recently, you see this struggle within the church.  They specifically discuss the "Purity Culture" movement in the 80's, 90's, and 00's.  We can learn from past mistakes and point one another to Jesus's hope that comes through his purity alone.    

Nic asked Lead Pastor Shan Moyers to give his 3 most helpful leadership Principles with one main stipulation: They have to be principles that have shaped him RECENTLY.  These can't be some dusty axioms that you find in a book somewhere and will never think of again.  No, these need to be white hot and worn down around the edges because he has depended on them so heavily.  As expected, Shan delivered. Take some notes and begin learning how to apply these principles to your family and your work to lead better right now.  

Nic sits down with special guests Mark Birmingham, Dee Rorhbaugh, and James Wittler to talk about their experiences being dad's.  They talk about the examples from their fathers, what they've learned through hardships and what they hope to do in the future.  They answer what it looks like to find friendships, grow spiritually, and how to redeem mistakes.  They talk divorce and raising kids with special needs.  There is so much to learn from in this episode, we're excited to share it with you!

Nic and Amanda share a brief and exciting update to Rocky Unscripted moving forward!  This podcast is 1 year old and we have SO MUCH more that we're looking forward to.  Plus...Amanda gives a sneak peek into a future leadership episode by sharing insight into one of the most practical leadership lessons she has learned this year.  

We need your help to influence what we talk about in the future!  To suggest future show topics, text "unscripted" to 97000 and let us know!  

How do you make your decisions?  Do you have a good track record or do you often end up regretting your choices?  Do you move too fast or too slow?  Do you have people that can help give you counsel that have access to the whole picture?  What does it look like to listen to the Holy Spirit?  These are all tough questions to answer yet that's exactly what Amanda, Shan and Nic discuss today.  While you're here, click on the button to follow the podcast so you can hear episodes right when they are released!  Also, share the podcast with others so more people can grow in their faith when Sunday is over.

For most of us, raising kids will be the most difficult thing we ever do.  It is more all-consuming, thankless, and disorienting than any other career we will hold in our lives.  Unsurprisingly, it is also the most rewarding role.  Jen Moyers, Amanda Carver, and Jori Smallman sit down with Nic and share highlights, low-lights, encouragement, and even a little commiseration.  Parenting is TOUGH.  But no matter the challenges you face being a parent; know that you are not alone.  There is hope when we turn to Jesus and His church.  

Links from this episode:

WHOA That's Good Podcast : 

Uninvited Book 

If you have young children, you've probably spent some time wondering what they will be like when they're older.  Today's episode offers a unique look into a great relationship between Amanda Rohrbaugh and 2 of her adult children.  They have a special bond that is formed only by shared experiences; both good and bad.  Amanda recounts making thousands of mistakes as a mom along the way, yet her girls offer a reflective look back at what was important about how they were raised.  This episode has SO MANY practical takeaways that we can learn from and apply to our own families.  As always, remember this: even when we make mistakes with the most important people in our lives, there is always hope and grace for a better future.  Lean closer to Jesus and He will offer redemption and direction.  Enjoy all the laughs and stories today and don't forget to call your mom!  Let's be grateful for what you've been blessed with.  

Nic talks with Matt Cote, Rocky's Frederick Campus Pastor and Mitch Comstedt, Rocky's Pastor of Discipleship and Pathway.  Mitch is a certified Enneagram Coach and offers helpful insight into each of the nine Enneagram Types.  The conversation dives into the horror stories we would all naturally live out without the hope of Jesus and the help of self-discovery.  In the end, there is hope for all of us to respond to Jesus' call and live redeemed lives.  

Enneagram Resources:

ROAD BACK TO YOU

https://www.amazon.com/Road-Back-You-Enneagram-Self-Discovery/dp/0830846190/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=road+back+to+you+enneagram+book&qid=1651165990&sprefix=road+back+to+y%2Caps%2C127&sr=8-1

WHAT'S YOUR ENNEATYPE?

https://www.amazon.com/Whats-Enneatype-Essential-Guide-Enneagram/dp/1592339522/ref=sr_1_1?crid=281SQ7JPOQ5WV&keywords=enneatype&qid=1651166042&sprefix=enneaty%2Caps%2C102&sr=8-1

ASSESSMENTS

Also, if you'd like to consult with Mitch Comstedt to coach your organization, check out www.ennealeadershipcoaching.com

Shan, Amanda and Nic talk about the inconstancies of our faith and how that can affect our relevance to those around us.  They also discuss the difference between extroverts and introverts and how both can share their faith in meaningful ways.  Finally, they ask the important questions, "Are sheep all female?  Are male sheep still called sheep?"  These thoughtful questions and more fill this weeks latest episode.  Enjoy!

It may not be a surprise to most of us, but more often than not, Christians are known for what they are against, rather than what they are for.  It is too easy to raise the banner against sin, rather than a banner for freedom and hope.  Unintentionally, we have created a legacy of judgement that can be overturned with the grace of Jesus.  It is not too late to represent compassion, second chances, and grace.  We must start with ourselves and realize the immense love Jesus shows us each day.  Only then we can live out that love to those around us.  Nic shares an insightful conversation with Shan Moyers, the Lead Pastor of Rocky Mountain Christian church, and Trevor Devage, the Lead Pastor of Pantano Christian Church in Tucson, Az. 

Even with the best intentions, we often come across negatively when we share our faith.  We're too pushy, too judge-y, too elitist...just too much of the wrong thing.  Jesus shows us a better way; a way that actually draws people to himself because he offers hope and help.  Matt, Amanda and Nic talk about the ways they have struggled with this, and practical ways to be truly helpful to those we care about.  

Suffering is by nature uncomfortable, and talking about it is as well.  However, it is critical that we are willing to talk about suffering because Jesus talked about suffering.  Even though we want to avoid pain, we have a Savior that was willing to walk right into it and because of that, He understands EVERYTHING we could ever experience.  God is quick to listen to those that are suffering and He WILL bring justice.  However, His timing is not the same as ours and His plans are higher.  In the waiting, God can bring purpose to pain, He can bring meaning to misery, and he can walk with us every step of the way.  

We live in arguably the most fearful time in our lives.  It seems like everywhere we look, there are wars, illnesses, threats to our economy and way of life; not to mention all of the challenges that we face simply making a living.  What if we lose our jobs?  What if our kids get sick?  What if our marriage falls apart.  However, when we look at the New Testament, we see a world not entirely unlike our own.  The people in Jesus' day dealt with a similar set of unknowns.  Perhaps even more precarious than our own.  Jesus calls them to a new way of living.  One that is built upon trust, rather than fear.  Jesus says that we don't have to live in fear, even when we have every reason to be afraid.  

Our world landscape is always difficult to understand and process.  In today's episode, Amanda, Shan, and Nic discuss the concept of peace and ask some difficult questions.  Does God condone war?  Does Jesus only support pacifism?  Can you be following Jesus and still support war?  We don't claim to have all of the answers, but we do want to be honest and provide help during a confusing time.  Yet, even in the confusion and fear, we believe Jesus is still in the center of it all.  Please rate, review and share the podcast wherever you listen!  

The supply shortages we encounter everyday seem to have taken their toll on our hope as well. Whether we follow Jesus and call our selves Christians or not, we often miss out on the life of hope that Jesus intends. Why? We misplace our hope on things that can’t offer it in the first place. We focus on the pursuit of comfort and avoiding pain. But guess what? That’s not the real world. However, we can have an immense and unending supply of very real hope in a very difficult world.

Today we tackle the intro to our new series called, "Don't Freak Out!".  After two years of constant change and uncertainty, our minds are weary and in need of rest.  The problem?  That is easier said than done:). Amanda, Shan, and Nic share how they personally freak out at times and what often leads to it.  They also offer practical steps to deal with stress better and step into the "right now" kind of help God offers.  

This link is for the Information Nic shares about anxiety and the brain.  

https://pronghornpsych.com/how-does-anxiety-affect-the-brain/

Today's episode features a lengthy conversation about what the book of Proverbs has to say about Sex.  We ask questions like, "Why should we listen to Solomon when he had hundreds of sexual partners?"  "What do you do if you carry a lot of shame regarding your sexual history?"  Matt, Shan, Nic and Amanda answer these questions as well as provide practical steps towards freedom from Pornography addiction and sexual secrets.  God wants us to have sex.  God wants us to have good sex.  And God provides clear instruction for sex that is for our own benefit and for the benefit of others.  

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The power of our words have the ability to bring life and death. Shan and Nic talk about practical ways we can grow healthier in the way we use our words; not only with those around us but with ourselves. I think most of us would be embarrassed if we were honest about our own self-talk. Additionally, once we factor in non-verbal communication and tone, we’re really in trouble unless we consistently give ourselves over to God’s control.

Amanda, Matt, and Nic discuss the difficulty but necessity of quality friendships in our lives.  We all face the reality that making quality friends is HARD.  The temptation is to keep people at a distance, or keep the relationships at a surface level.  However, that is not the best way to live our lives.  We have plenty of moments that we ask ourselves, "What was I thinking?".  However, what if we had had friends in our lives that could have called us out on our decision before we made it?  How would that have changed the course our lives?  Our team discuss personal stories of why it can be so hard to build friendships, but also how it has shaped them personally.  

Last year was the first year we began our podcast and there is so much to look forward to in 2022. We begin this year with a study on the book of Proverbs and discuss the idea of Wisdom. We all make mistake but hopefully we learn from those mistakes. And not only that, hopefully we are learning to apply wisdom in our lives to live the best life we can. Nic sits down with Shan and Amanda and  talk about the basic principles of wisdom.  Shan shares even more from his study this past week, and Amanda walks us through how she is currently growing in her own self-awareness and wisdom. It is basically a mini counseling session within the Podcast :). 

The Holidays are wonderful, and yet they can often make us a little crazy.  Difficult families, crazy traditions, a pace that is unsustainable, and the pressures of having a perfect Christmas can be overwhelming.  Shan, Matt, and Amanda sit down with Nic to discuss what they have learned from personal experience.  They offer advice on how to not only survive the month of December, but actually thrive.  

Today we hear from Matt Cote as he answers big questions about life and faith.  The questions include;  how do you overcome failure in life?  How do you process the early death of a parent?  What would you ask God if you had the chance?  Not only does Matt answer these big questions, but he also addresses some more practical, everyday issues we all face.  Matt and Nic have worked together over the past 13 years, and that relationship adds a layer of depth to the conversation we think you'll enjoy.  

This week is a special episode on Rocky Unscripted and it’s a great example of our desire to talk about faith when Sunday is over. Amanda and Nic sit down with Karla Nugent, an incredibly successful business leader and co-owner of the Weifield Group. The Weifield Group is a Denver-based contracting company that she co-founded over 20 years ago. They have grown to over 700 employees and branched into 4 different states. Under Karla’s leadership, Weifield has won Denver Post’s top Workplaces Award every year for 10 years.  Additionally, Karla has won many personal awards including the Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce “Top 25 Most Powerful Women” award, Denver Business Journal’s “outstanding Women in Business” award, and has served on multiple leadership boards including several major hospitals. Needless to Say, her leadership and expertise is highly sought after, and as you’ll hear in the show, Karla was recently travelled to Saudi Arabia to serve on a delegation promoting women in the workforce. Today we discuss leadership principles in the workplace, at home, and how faith can interact with our normal lives in every moment. Karla is very inspiring, and we're excited to share the conversation with you.

In this episode, Nic sits down with one of our campus pastors, Amanda Rohrbaugh, and asks her big questions about life, spiritual growth, and leadership. Amanda has been in the game for a long time and has developed a wealth of knowledge that we can all learn from.  

Last week we had a team of 21 people return from a trip to Kenya where they served alongside one of our favorite ministries… you’ll hear more specifics about that in this episode. Our pastors Shan and Matt helped lead the trip and they brought back some strong lessons that can be applied whether you went on the trip or not. For most of us, we didn't go; and yet there are several things that can challenge us in this conversation. 

Another round of big questions with our special guest, Shane Wood.  Shane offers insight into personal growth, spiritual development, and professional leadership.  

We welcome special guest Shane Wood to the podcast this week!  Shane is from Joplin, MO where he is Professor of New Testament Studies and the Associate Dean at Ozark Christian College.  He's kind of a big deal.  Shane gave a message this past week from his book Between Two Trees and gave powerful insight into the journey of healing and forgiveness.  In this episode, Nic and Shan have a conversation with Shane about his story of abuse, healing, and how to find freedom and forgiveness.  Whether you have experienced abuse or know someone who has, this conversation can offer life-changing hope.  Even if you haven't suffered abuse, we've all experienced trauma on some level; and that trauma leaves wounds.  If we don't allow God to help us heal those wounds, we will never experience the life we were created for.  Let us remember, no matter how dark life feels, there is always hope.  

We've talked about doing an episode like this for months, and today we release one!  We developed some tough, thought provoking questions that we know you'd want our leaders to answer.  These questions are designed for a thoughtful, yet gut reaction to help you learn from what they have learned.  How do you handle stress?  What lessons have you learned about marriage?  What would you say to your 20 year-old self if you had the chance?  These questions lead us to conversations about vulnerability, leadership, politics and hope.  I was super encouraged after our conversation and I believe you will be too.  

Today we’re talking about Humility and serving within the church. Some of us have previous experiences serving in the church; both good and bad.  In today’s conversation, Nic asks our campus pastors some direct questions about serving, and why people should take the time to do it. . Sometimes it can feel like churches are always asking for money and for people to volunteer; maybe this is why you’ve had a negative experience in the past…however, when we humble ourselves and focus on contributing rather than consuming, something changes in us.

Matt and Amanda talk about practical ways we can share our faith without making people feel like projects.  We don't have to know everything about the Bible in order to share "something" about our faith.  We often feel pressured to evangelize our beliefs; and if we don't, we carry shame.  But if we are motivated by a genuine love and care for other people, Jesus will be the one responsible to bring about life change.  The pressure is off and we can live with purpose and peace.  Also, Matt sings a Tina Turner cover.  

We welcome two new guests to the show: Mitch Comstedt and Susan Broerman.  Both Mitch and Susan have been in small groups for decades and have a wealth of experience.  They bring that to their professional lives and help connect people into meaningful small groups.  Small groups are risky, they are difficult, AND they are also opportunities for incredible breakthrough.  In this episode, we discuss very real concerns as we step in community.  However, we also share practical ways in which we can find the kind of relationships we truly need to live like Jesus.  

Link for connecting in groups at Rocky:  https://rocky.church/groups/

Matt Cote, Nic Carver, and Luke Hall sit down to discuss the value of pursuing God.  The question is raised, "Do we need to pursue God when God is pursuing us?"  Additionally, they talk about how we can seek God when we are struggling with mental illness.   There are many moments that we struggle with our self worth and our identity because as we all know, life is incredibly challenging.  However, there are practical things that we can employ to help us in the darkest moments of life.  They discuss how it is possible to develop a relationship with God that is fulfilling and life-giving; but it takes the kind of work that all relationships require.  Are we willing to do the work?  

When you watch how Jesus lived, he broke lots of rules; mostly around the issues of societal norms and what categories people fit into.  He broke them by spending time with people he wasn't "supposed" to be spending time with.  In essence, he was declaring that social outcasts were his equals and that there was a new category of love that transformed outsiders into insiders. Today, we take an in depth look at our own behaviors through the example of Jesus meeting with a man named Zacchaeus.  We need to ask ourselves, "Who do we welcome to our tables, and how did they get there?"  It is possible we need to rethink our decisions and add some chairs.  

Rocky Unscripted welcomes Alan Ahlgrim to the podcast and they discuss practical concepts from his upcoming book.  Alan has 50+ years of experience in ministry and in counseling relationships.  He shares incredibly practical tips that can help you get "unstuck" in your personal growth through vulnerability and community.  Matt Cote joins Alan and Nic Carver as they discuss how to avoid (or climb out of) the many pitfalls that come with friendships.  

Today we meet Shelby Voorhees, Rocky's Impact Director, and talk about our projects around the world; especially in Kenya.  She brings clarity to difficult questions regarding serving in seemingly impossible circumstances. What difference can we truly make?  We also hear stories of miracles, life change, and creating a future of possibilities for children in a desperate situation.  

Dane Voorhees and Luke Hall are Worship Pastor's at Rocky.  Even though they are on staff at a church, they can  identify with seasons in life when worshiping God is the last thing they want to do.  There are many reasons we feel this way from time to time.  Anger and disappointment can make it hard to offer gratitude to God, and sometimes it can lead to a long season of apathy.  Dane and Luke offer encouragement to make it through these times.  

We are often motivated by the need for other people's approval.  It's where we get our sense of success, the belief that we "have what it takes" and that we can finally find fulfillment.  However, we all know that this is a never-ending cycle that leaves us wanting more.  We can never achieve enough.  We can never be liked enough.  We can never find what we're looking for.  

But Jesus offers another way.  We take a look at a message Jesus gave thousands of years ago that still rings true today.  In fact, it may be more helpful now than ever.  

Matt and Shan talk about their own experiences with friendship, isolation, and the need for meaningful encounters with God when life gets difficult.  This episode is based on our new series called "Summer Mixtape".  Each week, we will take a look at a song we all know and how it relates to our spiritual lives.  This week, the band performed "Brother" by Need to Breath.  You can listen to the original here.  And If you weren't able to catch  the service, you can find it here!