New Churches Podcast

In this episode of the New Churches Podcast, Tony Merida is joined by Patrick Schreiner, Jeff Medders, and Jon Kelly to talk about the power of the Holy Spirit in church planting. Beginning in Acts 2, they reflect on Pentecost and how the Spirit empowers ordinary believers to take the gospel to the nations. Together they highlight the Spirit’s role in both the extraordinary and the ordinary—uniting the church in prayer, guiding planters in weakness, fueling mission, and keeping the focus on God’s glory rather than human ambition.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the New Churches Podcast, host Jeff Medders is joined by Tony Merida, Vance Pitman, and J.D. Greear to kick off a new season exploring church planting through the book of Acts. Together, they discuss the biblical foundations for church planting, why multiplication is essential for God’s kingdom mission, and how both Scripture and practical realities compel churches to plant and send. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Host Jeff Medders is joined by Jeremy Pierre in this special episode of the New Churches podcast for a discussion on the vital role of pastoral care in church planting. Drawing from his experience as a seminary professor and local church pastor, Jeremy casts a compelling vision for personal, proactive, and gospel-shaped ministry to people. He shares insights on building relational trust, asking better questions, and embodying the heart of a shepherd—reminding church planters that pastoring is not just about launching services but faithfully caring for souls. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Host Jeff Medders is joined by Barnabas Piper in this special episode of the New Churches podcast for a discussion on what it means to build and sustain a gospel culture in your church. Drawing from his experience at Immanuel Nashville, Barnabas shares practical insights on fostering honesty, safety, and honor in church life—and how Christ-centeredness is the key to lasting unity and transformation. Whether you're planting a church or pastoring an established one, this conversation will help you consider how to lead with humility and create a community marked by the aroma of Christ. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Host Jeff Medders is joined by Matt Smethurst in this special episode of the New Churches podcast for a discussion on calling, culture, and convictions in church planting. Matt shares the story behind the launch of River City Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia, and the power of a sacrificial team. They explore how a robust membership process, a culture of evangelism, and insights from Tim Keller have shaped Matt’s pastoral approach. Whether you're just exploring a call to plant or deep into the journey, this episode offers gospel-rich wisdom and encouragement. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Host Jeff Medders is joined by Kyle Worley in this special episode of the New Churches podcast for a discussion on the surprising path that led Kyle to plant Mosaic Church in Richardson, Texas. Kyle shares how his pastoral heart for a specific people and place drew him into church planting, and how the doctrine of union with Christ has grounded and sustained him through the highs and lows of ministry. From stories of unexpected provision to powerful conversions, this conversation is a timely encouragement for church planters to root their identity not in results, but in their unshakable union with Jesus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Host Jeff Medders is joined by Ronnie Martin in this special episode of the New Churches podcast for a discussion on the importance of renewal in the life of a church planter. Drawing from his role in leader care at Harbor Network, Ronnie shares insights on avoiding burnout, cultivating spiritual health, and redefining productivity in ministry. Together, they unpack the heart-level habits that sustain long-term pastoral vitality and explore practical ways pastors can prepare for sabbaticals, establish healthy rhythms, and minister from a place of rest and joy. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Host Jeff Medders is joined by J.T. English in this special episode of the New Churches podcast for a discussion on the vital link between evangelism and discipleship in church planting. J.T. shares insights from his experience in post-Christian Denver, explains the importance of grounding new converts in sound doctrine, and introduces the Deep Discipleship curriculum as a practical tool for church planters looking to cultivate lasting spiritual growth in their congregations. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Host Jeff Medders is joined by Vance Pitman, Matt Carter, and Jen Oshman for a final discussion on applying key essentials to church planting teams. They explore how a love for the church and the nations can be recognized in prospective team members and the impact this has on the plant. The conversation also covers the importance of cultivating community, supporting the planting pastor, and the practical skills needed from team members. Finally, they offer encouragement to those considering joining a church planting team. Join us next season for more insights!Jeff Medders is the director of theology and content for Send Network and general editor for New Churches. He is also an author, a preacher, and a PhD student in biblical spirituality at Southern Seminary, studying Charles Spurgeon and the Song of Songs. Jeff is a native Houstonian, where he lives with his wife and two kids.Matt Carter is vice president of mobilization for Send Network, the largest church planting network in North America. He was also founding pastor of The Austin Stone Church. During his tenure at The Stone, the church sent over 300 full-time missionaries to unreached people groups around the world. Matt holds an MDiv from Southwestern Seminary and a Doctorate in Expositional Preaching from Southeastern Seminary. He and his wife, Jennifer, have three children.Vance Pitman is president of Send Network, founding pastor of Hope Church, and author ofUNBURDENED: Stop Living for Jesus So Jesus Can Live Through YouandThe Stressless Life: Experiencing the Unshakable Presence of God’s Indescribable Peace. As a seasoned church planter and now leader of the largest church planting organization in North America, Vance seeks to inspire people to join in God’s eternal, redemptive mission of making disciples by multiplying the Church all over North America so that the nations may come to know Him.  Vance and his wife Kristie have four children and four grandchildren and live in Georgia.Jen Oshman is an author (Enough about Me, Cultural Counterfeits, Welcome, and It’s Good to be a Girl), podcaster (All Things), church planter’s wife, and mom of four teen and young adult daughters. She has served as a missionary and church planter for over two decades on three continents. She currently resides in Colorado, where she is the Director of Women’s Ministry at Redemption Parker. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Host Noah Oldham is joined by Matt Carter, Vance Pitman, and Mark Lee to discuss practical leadership in church planting. They explore the difference between practical and pragmatic leadership, the importance of vision casting, and the role of cultural fit in planting. The conversation also covers key topics like fundraising for church plants and maintaining Christ-centered motives amid growth and excellence. Tune in for insights on leading faithfully and effectively.Noah Oldham is the executive director of Send Network. He served as the founding and lead pastor of August Gate Church for 15 years and the Send City Missionary to St. Louis for almost 10. In both these roles, he led his church and dozens of others to plant churches throughout the St. Louis region and beyond. He holds master’s degrees in Biblical Studies and Christian Leadership and is a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach. He writes, speaks, and trains in the areas of two of his greatest passions: the local church and physical fitness.Noahand Heather have been married since 2005 and have five children.Matt Carter is vice president of mobilization for Send Network, the largest church planting network in North America. He was also founding pastor of The Austin Stone Church. During his tenure at The Stone, the church sent over 300 full-time missionaries to unreached people groups around the world. Matt holds an MDiv from Southwestern Seminary and a Doctorate in Expositional Preaching from Southeastern Seminary. He and his wife, Jennifer, have three children.Vance Pitman is president of Send Network, founding pastor of Hope Church, and author ofUNBURDENED: Stop Living for Jesus So Jesus Can Live Through YouandThe Stressless Life: Experiencing the Unshakable Presence of God's Indescribable Peace. As a seasoned church planter and now leader of the largest church planting organization in North America, Vance seeks to inspire people to join in God’s eternal, redemptive mission of making disciples by multiplying the Church all over North America so that the nations may come to know Him.  Vance and his wife Kristie have four children and four grandchildren and live in Georgia.Mark Lee planted VantagePoint Church in Eastvale, California in 2008. Since then, the church has helped plant 10 other churches around the country. Mark also serves on the Lead Team of Church Planters for Send Network. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.