Brave Men Podcast with Paul Louis Cole

Unlock the transformative power of neuroscience-informed Christian counseling with licensed professional counselor and certified sex therapist, Josh Spurlock. Immerse your heart into a terrific conversation with our good friend Josh as we peel back layers of emotional and relational inhibitors. Dive with us into a profound discussion on the long-term effects of father wounds, the significance of intentional vulnerability, and the potential that lies within our God-given mechanisms for personal growth and deeper discipleship. What’s the harmony between current scientific research and our faith in Jesus? How does the power of the Holy Spirit transform our thinking? We tackle the tough topics head-on, addressing the sensitive issue of pornography and its impact on relationships. With Josh's expertise, we examine the neurological dependencies it can create, comparative to substance abuse. We discuss strategies for confronting and healing from its effects by addressing underlying issues. The battle scars of life often linger beneath the surface, manifesting in ways that can challenge our relationships and personal well-being. As Josh and I candidly discuss the shadows cast by father wounds and the distortions created by pornography, we reveal a path forward—one punctuated by faith in Christ, vulnerability, intentional living, and the pursuit of deep, meaningful friendships. Together, we navigate the delicate pathways of neuroplasticity, uncovering how our past, our pain, and our potential for healing are influenced by both our neurological makeup and our faith. This is about navigating life with grace, power and compassion. We discover it’s not just about us, but how we help others in the journey of life. Brave Men podcast is a production of the Christian Men’s Network, a global men’s movement with coordinating offices in Peru, Indonesia, Uganda, Brazil, London and Texas. For resources to disciple your family or men in your church go to CMN.men (00:00) Neuroscience-Informed Christian Counseling and Healing(10:09) Neuroplasticity and Biblical Counseling(19:48) Addressing Pornography's Impact on Men's Relationships(36:09) Building Meaningful Male Friendships in Community(43:59) Navigating Dysfunction and Finding Faith(48:11) Navigating Father Wounds and Healing(53:34) Healing Through Mentors and Relationships(01:00:42) Understanding Anger and Emotional Connection(01:17:29) Seeking Wisdom and Mentorship for Men

Embarking on a spiritual odyssey often means confronting the comfort zones that dull our fervor. Stephen Prouse is a spiritual warrior - boldly confronting the comfort zones of a culture committed to self justification. A strong man with a strong voice Stephen is well known online as the Fifth Horseman and the Fourth Watch. But his personal story has been one of a series of obstacles resulting in a dynamic faith in Jesus that defines his heart and life.  Today on Brave Men a robust conversation that unveils the perils of spiritual complacency and the church's posture amidst societal turbulence. Together, we dissect the necessity for believers to put on the full armor of God, not for a parade but for the warfare of faith. We hit the power of prayer to reshape not just our circumstances but our own hearts. Why we must be clear on the fight that we face and the pivotal role of adversity in crafting a robust, Christ-centric life. Stephen opens up a personal narrative most have never heard … the gritty realities of navigating family dynamics and the shaping of our faith amidst a culture that denies Christ. Stephen is a leading voice in the Godly restoration of manhood and masculinity. There is a renewal taking place and it’s time for the men of God to stand for truth, love and righteousness. Today’s Brave Men calls upon men to anchor their identities in Christ, building a life lived with vigorous faith and divine purpose. Join us as we call men across the nations to the adventure of following Jesus Christ and his call to rise up as warriors of faith. Brave Men is a production of the Christian Men’s Network, a movement of Godly men in over 100 nations. Resources for men’s discipleship can be found at https://CMN.men. The host of Brave Men is Paul Louis Cole. Follow Paul on socials at @paullouiscole (00:00) Spiritual Warfare and Faith Refinement(08:35) Passion and Authenticity in Faith(17:39) Life, Music, Trauma, Spiritual Conflict(22:22) Family, Divorce, and Spiritual Warfare(30:42) Men, Faith, and Society Revisited(41:53) Journey of Faith and Spiritual Warfare(47:28) Churches, Ministries, and Cultural Influence(58:56) Father-Son Relationship and Faith Journey(01:03:08) Exploration of Faith and Family Loyalty(01:15:06) Navigating Life and Faith Journey(01:20:53) Fatherhood and Biblical Masculinity

When the weight of leadership presses upon your shoulders, where do you find your footing? Join me, Paul Louis Cole, alongside my good friend, communications specialist Larry Ross. He was the seasoned voice behind the legendary evangelist Billy Graham for over three decades and his expertise has helped amplify the message of thought leaders such as Rick Warren, Bishop Jakes, The Jesus Film, Tony Evans and many others. We tackle the challenges of being men of integrity in the public eye - from the strategic significance of public faith and leadership to the impact of personal relationships on our spiritual practices. Fatherhood and ministry often pull at the seams of a man's life, demanding a delicate balance that can feel impossible to achieve. We get into the grit of our own upbringing, recognizing the silent sacrifices made by our fathers and the influence it casts on the next generation. Our conversation weaves through the Christian Men's Network's mission to cultivate enduring discipleship in local churches, with the promise of seeing the power of God transform families and nations alike. We hit the issues of today’s pastoral life. From burnout to imposter syndrome, we discuss the necessity for a brotherhood of support, grounding our identities in Christ above all else. We consider the Modesto Manifesto's principles and how such commitments can fortify one's ministry against the storms of scandal and temptation. Join Larry and me in this candid discussion that promises a blueprint for integrity, purpose, and transformative leadership within men's ministry. Brave Men is a production of the Christian Men’s Network. A global movement that is helping pastors and leaders disciple men in over 100 nations. You can find the resources you need for discipling your family, the men in your church or your sphere of influence at https://CMN.men (00:00) The Future of Men's Ministry(14:04) Journey to Knowing Jesus(25:21) Prioritizing Family in Ministry(31:40) Stories of Humility and Inspiration(44:19) Legacy of Faith and Influence(52:55) Burnout, Imposter Syndrome, and Brotherhood(01:04:53) Legacy of Fatherhood and Faith

Phil Pringle is a world-renowned artist, author, speaker and pastor. Join me and Dr. Phil Pringle and my son Brandon Cole in a heartwarming and profound discussion about the intersection of fatherhood, leadership, and spirituality. This episode of Brave Men will help you uncover the power of emotional bonds, particularly between fathers and sons, and how these connections shape young men's lives both inside and outside the church. Phil is my pastor and close friend. Come inside the CMN office/studio as we have a craft coffee and share life together. Making it so much sweeter is my son Brandon engaging with us – and my son Bryce producing the episode.   Pastor Pringle shares his incredible journey from a small church start-up in a local Australia surf station to spearheading a global network of over 700 churches, illustrating the expansive reach of vision and faith. We laugh, reflect, and celebrate the significance of nurturing relationships, honoring the influential people in our lives, and the impact they have on our personal and spiritual development. Phil’s books such as You The Leader, Disciple, Faith and Hope are powerful resources for thousands of leaders and pastors around the world. His mentoring and discipleship has launched thousands of key men into ministry and their life mission. The essence of masculinity is often shrouded in misconceptions, but within this episode, we redefine its narrative by exploring the intersection of strength, creativity and spirituality. We honor historical figures who embodied both the warrior and the artist, proving that true masculinity mirrors the full image of God. Our discussion also embraces the delicate art of servant leadership within the family and the church, contrasting it with the pitfalls of control and the beauty of providing a secure and thriving environment. Join us for a dialogue that promises to ignite your faith, leadership, and personal development journey. Every great story is built on the foundation of relationships, and ours is no exception. We delve into the heart of marriage, the power of choosing love and forgiveness, and the strength that comes from unwavering friendships. Discover the art of leadership through the lens of servanthood and the rich tapestry of masculinity as it intertwines with creativity and faith. Phil, Brandon and Paul make this an instant favorite and one to share with others. Brave Men is a production of the Christian Men’s Network and hosted by the President of CMN, Paul Louis Cole. Follow Paul on social media at @paullouiscole and find tremendous resources for discipling men at CMN.men (00:00) Fatherhood and Leadership in C3 Movement(07:11) Fatherhood and Servant Leadership(18:53) Embracing Masculinity Through Artistry(23:49) Faith in Marriage and Church(30:16) Reclaiming Masculinity and Vision in Church(43:12) Building Healthy Relationships in Church(52:55) Staying Sharp With Strong Friendships(56:21) Building Male Friendships Through Action(01:03:31) The Power of Table Conversations

When the echoes of my son's laughter blended with the crackling of the campfire, a realization struck me: these are the moments that forge a legacy. That's the heart of our latest episode, where Brian Molitor and I explore the transformative role of fathers and mentors in shaping future generations. The conversation is charged with purpose as we discuss not just the duty but the art of raising boys to become men of integrity, conviction and character in Christ. The path from boyhood to manhood is strewn with obstacles, detours and competing voices. For most boys there is not an articulated rite of passage – for most men they can’t tell you when they became a man. Brian shares his own story that led to the writing of his signature book "Boy's Passage, Man's Journey." We dissect the integral part that family elders and grandparents play, painting a picture of the wisdom and guidance they can offer during these critical life shifts. It's a tribute to the time-honored practices that ensure the torch of maturity and responsibility is passed on with clarity and honor. In our CMN curriculum we predicate the transition into manhood with the phrase, “Maturity doesn’t come with age, but with the acceptance of responsibility”. This episode with Brian is an impassioned call for men to step into their purpose, heal from their past, and lead with a robust spirit of mentorship as we follow Jesus with all our hearts. (0:00:01) - Building Legacy and Raising Men (0:07:42) - Boys Passage Man's Journey and Maturity (0:13:42) - Life Transitions and Family Influence (0:19:04) - The Power of Mentoring and Blessing (0:32:52) - Navigating Men's Mentoring and Healing (0:48:17) - Men's Mentoring and Brotherhood Principles Brave Men is a production of the Christian Men’s Network,(CMN.men). CMN is one of the leading producers globally of resources for discipling men and the next generation of men. Paul Louis Cole is the President of CMN and the host of Brave Men.

He almost lost it all … then, through remarkable tenacity and finding renewal in Christ, recaptured his masculine virtue. Now my friend Skylar Lewis is crushing it. Join me on a radical, sacred, transformative journey with Skylar, founder of Rise Up Kings, as we explore the reconstruction and revival of authentic masculinity. We shatter the myths surrounding toxic masculinity, embrace the rigors of a spiritually focused man, and learn how to balance the pressures of work, family, and friendships and how to live a truly fulfilling life. He candidly opens up about the journey that brought him to create the Rise Up Kings program, emphasizing the profound impact it's had on men globally. This episode is more than just a conversation; it's an invitation to witness how vulnerability and emotional intimacy can be the mortar in building stronger relationships and the fortitude that true discipline fosters within. From navigating triggers to embracing the disciplines of being a truly Christ-centered man we get real and light a path for all men to know who they are and why they are on the earth. Skylar's heartfelt narrative from a business-driven perspective to one centered on faith, family, fitness, and finance showcases the profound impact that balance can have on a man's life. Not only does this conversation spotlight the essential pillars of a fulfilling existence, but it also serves as a testament to the strength found in authentic role models and their ability to inspire change. There can be no discussion about personal growth without centering on the work of Jesus in our lives – the power of grace and forgiveness. We underscore the importance of resilience, repentance, and God's enduring mercy. Finally, the concept of true masculinity is reaffirmed, advocating for spaces where men can heal, grow, and deepen their faith, while positively impacting their families and communities. Skylar's dedication to fostering such communities and his belief in the inherent goodness of Christ-like masculinity serve as a beacon for those seeking to live out their divine calling. This is how we truly become the champions and leaders our families and our culture need us to be. Brave Men is a production of the Christian Men’s Network. A global movement of men committed to living out the teachings of Jesus Christ. For tools on discipling men and sons go to CMN.men. The President of Christian Men’s Network, Paul Louis Cole, is the host of Brave Men. (00:00) Rise Up Kings Movement(04:07) Men's Discipleship and Family Rescue(09:17) A Journey of Faith and Focus(20:41) Navigating Vulnerability and Emotional Intimacy(31:04) Understanding Triggers and Building Discipline(36:55) Men's Community and Spiritual Growth(47:52) Journey Through Grace and Forgiveness(57:29) Rise Up Kings

When Nancy Houston and I sat down to record this podcast, little did we know that our conversation would travel such depths of the human heart, exploring the rhythms of building healthy relationships. This is part two of a remarkable and healing conversation.   Enriched by personal stories and a shared history with our spouses, we discuss the vital shift from self-centered desires to a nurturing, selfless love. What it means to live a strong, honest, authentic life as a man following Jesus. This shift is not just a theological or philosophical idea; it's the bedrock of deep connection and an enduring marriage. As we peel back the layers, we uncover the importance of supportive communities within local churches, and the transformative role that personal and leadership health play in our lives and the lives of those we touch.   Our journey takes us through the often-treacherous terrain of vulnerability and intimacy and masculinity. With Nancy's insights as a licensed professional counselor guiding the way we confront the heavy issues of guilt and shame that can stifle relationships and stop our growth as a man.   We walk boldly down the path to forgiveness—a journey that can change family dynamics and lead to profound healing. It's a candid look at the challenges all men face in showing vulnerability, the pressures of societal masculinity, and how being real with our emotions and emotional health can lead to stronger, more intimate relationships. The conversation is as much about personal growth as it is about changing perceptions of what it means to be a Christian man in today's world.   We hit the power of fatherhood and masculinity, from roughhousing with our kids to setting the stage for their future security and self-worth. We wrap up with a spotlight on the Christian Men's Network's global initiative, inspiring men to live with passion and faith. Our dialogue is an invitation—join us in this profound discussion and be part of a movement towards God honoring relationships and becoming a better man.    Brave Men is a production of the Christian Men’s Network. The host is Paul Louis Cole. Resources for discipling men whether it’s your sons, or the men in your church at CMN.men (00:00) Healthy Relationships(13:46) Journey to Vulnerability and Intimacy(22:22) Marriage, Maturity, and Continuous Growth(35:28) The Importance of Fatherhood and Masculinity(42:46) Global Movement for Men

Nancy’s life was like a movie. A bad one. One traumatic moment after another followed by repeated intense drama. Her life looked like it was headed to an apocalyptic crushing conclusion … then an unexpected turnaround when she met Jesus and Ron. What Nancy went through is the foundation of one of our most open, uninhibited conversations about emotional abuse, sexual trauma, healing and freedom.   In this Brave Men episode Paul talks in depth with noted therapist Nancy Houston about her life, her observations on trauma and how we can find healing. Nancy is an author, speaker, Executive Leadership Coach, Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Sex Therapist.    In the first of an in-depth two-part series we walk into the depths of despair that so many of us have experienced. We talk openly about the most difficult issues that are usually hidden in the desire to look ‘normal.’ What’s hidden stays hurting. Repeated trauma can be healed. Here’s how.   Most recently Nancy has developed and leads Next Level Leadership Groups which is a relational approach to leadership. Nancy is a former adjunct at DBU and Concordia University and a fellow at the Townsend Institute at Concordia University.   (00:00) Empowering Conversations With Nancy Houston(08:37) Uncovering Childhood Trauma(21:12) Journey of Healing and Redemption(32:40) Life, Love, and Finding Faith(47:45) Navigating Trauma and Intimacy in Relationships(58:49) Overcoming Shame and Self-Talk Brave Men is a production of the Christian Men’s Network. Paul Louis Cole is the host. CMN produces resources to disciple men in over 40 languages. You can find these tools and information on how to disciple men at CMN.men

We often push “Father wounds” to the rear of the trauma list … but often they are the underlying causation to most of them. In this candid and vulnerable conversation Dave Novak leads us into the depths of despair and pain from father wounds as recounted in his remarkable book “No More Dad Issues”. Dave deals with the burdens, wounds, and frustrations so many men have with their fathers … a trauma that has led many into the depths of depression, suicide and dysfunction. Are you prepared to break free from the difficulties impacting your emotions, decisions, and relationships due to tension stemming from your dad? Listen and engage with Paul Cole and Dave Novak as we take a heartfelt journey through the dark tunnels of trauma to the sunlight of healing. Today on Brave Men we not only identify the problem, we boldly declare the solution in Jesus. Here are answers you perhaps thought you’d never find. Answers that will begin to heal the heart of every man brave enough to take a step toward healing. Dave is a well-known minister who courageously shares his hurts and difficult relationship with his father who was also a minister. He’s boldly honest, uncommonly vulnerable, and vividly transparent with his issues. On this Brave Men episode you’ll discover how to move forward beyond the exhaustive wounds weighing you down. By the end you’ll find yourself liberated with hope for a refreshing new life. On his deathbed … on his final night alive, Dave’s father finally, tenderly, uttered the words his son had craved for 45 years: I love you. Brave Men is a production of the Christian Men’s Network. The host is the President of CMN, Paul Louis Cole. CMN is a global movement committed to raising up healthy fathers, defeating the scourge of fatherlessness and declaring the name of Jesus to a culture that needs salvation and healing. You can find out more at CMN.men (00:00) No More Dad Issues(09:04) Father-Son Healing Journey(20:21) Father's Transformation and Impact on Family(27:42) Dad Issues for Healthy Future(36:26) The Importance of Family Connection(44:34) Fatherhood, Regrets, and Redemption

Vice President Mike Pence reveals a battle every dad faces and how a simple choice can transform your legacy. Every evening's journey back home is a choice—a quiet rebellion against the demands of an unyielding schedule. That's the ethos former Vice President Mike Pence and his daughter Charlotte discuss in their book "Go Home for Dinner," and it's the centerpiece of our heartfelt conversation in this powerful episode of Brave Men.   A candid conversation with a man who stood in the middle of shaping world history and fought for his faith … and his family. We navigate the crossroads where professional drive and family commitment intersect, sharing personal stories that reveal the surprising benefits of prioritizing those we love.   What does it truly mean to prioritize your loved ones in today's fast-paced world? Mike Pence gets personal with candid reflections on fatherhood, ambition, politics, the pressures of public service and the balance of faith in it all. This episode isn't just about the high-stakes world of politics; it's a candid exploration of personal ambition, biblical wisdom, and the transformative power of aligning your life with God's Word for the ultimate fulfillment of your purpose. Join us as we explore the struggles and triumphs of living a life where family and faith take center stage. Brave Men is a production of the Christian Men’s Network, a global movement of men committed to ending fatherlessness. Your host is the President of CMN, Paul Louis Cole. You can find out more about this global men’s discipleship movement at CMN.men (00:00) Family Time Over Work(09:21) Making Faith and Family a Priority(20:22) Balancing Work and Family Life(30:25) The Power of Family Traditions