Brave Men exists to inspire men to live a better life. Through conversations and
teachings meant to bring about wisdom and courage for the journey, Brave Men
hopes to help men build a life filled with purpose and destiny. Your host for the
podcast is Paul Louis Cole, President of Christian Men’s Network - with
representation in over 100 nations around the world - and the founder of the Global
Fatherhood Initiative. Paul Cole has a deep passion to defeat fatherlessness, end
child abuse, and raise up strong men who love God, love people, and make an
impact in their community. This is our mission. This... is Brave Men.
Visit https://cmn.men for more information.
Identity is under attack, and the stakes have never been higher. Ever felt like you weren’t enough or feared your past defines you? Here’s hope! Join me today on Brave Men as we confront the crucial themes shaping the lives of Christian men today. From the relentless attack on the family to the disruption of the family unit by fatherlessness to the devil's strategic distortion of our sense of self, we at war, and identity is one of our greatest weapons.
When a demon possessed man was healed by Jesus it reminds us that no one is too far gone for Jesus' love and redemption – that not one man is beyond the reach of grace. I encourage you to reflect on your own personal testimony as a powerful story for spreading hope and transformation, highlighting the transformative power of Jesus' grace for all, regardless of their past.
By understanding that we carry the same spirit that raised Jesus from the dead, we can find enduring hope and strength in our faith. Join us as we discuss practical insights to empower Christian men to stand firm in their purpose and lead their families and communities with unwavering faith and love.
Packed with strong, practical tools for daily living this episode will lift your spirit. Brave Men is a production of the Christian Men’s Network, a global movement of men following Jesus. Find tools for discipling men and sons at CMN.men
(00:12) Identity and Purpose for Christian Men
(07:58) The Power of Jesus' Grace
(22:41) The Power of Prayer and Authority
(34:59) The Transformative Power of Jesus
https://cmn.men
The Brave Men podcasts highlight men who are leaders because they’re honest, strong, vulnerable and filled with wisdom. But what can we learn from boxing? Here’s your answer. Fred Ichniowski is a leading business consultant and boxing commentator. And he’s also a dad …
When Fred Ichniowski’s eight-year-old son asked him a profound question about life, it sparked a conversation that transcended simple fatherhood advice. In this enlightening episode, Fred, a seasoned business consultant and boxing commentator, joins us to share his unique insights on the powerful distinction between mentoring and coaching, and the impactful moments that have defined his career.
Here’s wisdom and strength. Listen as we delve into Fred’s heartfelt stories, from his childhood connection with his father through boxing to his transformative journey in leadership and personal growth. Fred hits us with a memorable acronym about grace, influence, and leadership qualities that transcend titles—Humility, Vulnerability, Accountability, and Courage (HVAC).
What’s the difference between coaching and mentoring? Fred has a great answer. Whether through mentoring, coaching, listening, or leading by example, this episode offers practical tools and inspirational stories to foster personal growth and effective leadership.
Brave Men is a production of the Christian Men’s Network and is hosted by the President of CMN, Paul Louis Cole. Follow the ministry of CMN around the world by following Paul on socials ( @paullouiscole ). For tools and resources for discipling men find what you need at CMN.men
(00:12) Boxing Commentary and Life Transformation
(13:35) Life's Journey and Faith Transformation
(28:37) Difference Between Coaching and Mentoring
(38:56) Quick to Listen, Slow to Speak
(47:19) Transformative Power of Grace and Influence
(58:53) Leadership Through Humility and Courage
(01:07:53) Global Men's Christian Network Movement
From our first day of ministry in the Middle East, we were struck by the vibrant faith of the underground church leaders, their stories a testament to the power of perseverance in the face of adversity. This episode pulls back the curtain on the remarkable expansion of Christianity in Iran, a land where faith comes at a high cost, following Jesus Christ a choice often made not just with your words, but possibly with your life.
Our special guest, David Yeghnazar from Elam Ministries, shares with us not just the history woven into his family's faith journey but also the broader narrative of Iran's church, rising like a phoenix from the ashes of the Islamic revolution. This will encourage you and also compel you to greater works - to get things done where we live, while our brothers in other nations stay the course for Christ. These stories of resilience and discipleship are fuel for our mission, reminding us that the true measure of a man's faith is not found in serenity, but in the crucible of trials.
David and Paul also talk about the new Christian Men’s Network thrust into Arabic nations. CMN is actively translating resources for discipling men into Farsi, Arabic, Russian, Ukrainian and other languages for the Middle East and Central Asian nations.
Brave Men is a production of the Christian Men’s Network. A global resource center for tools to disciple men. Currently in 50 languages. You can find us at CMN.men
(00:00) Suffering and Faith in Iran
(04:09) Iranian Church's Growth Amid Persecution
(16:57) Faithful Men Inspiring Global Impact
(23:05) Expanding the Church in Iran
(33:49) The Impact of the Gospel
Embarking on a spiritual quest often begins with a single step, a step that Steve Trevino (@pr.stevetrevino) has taken time and again, transforming not just his life but the lives of countless others through his dedication to discipleship. His journey from pastoring to uplifting pastors in the Middle East is a stirring testament to the profound impact one man can have. Our conversation with Steve unravels the tapestry of discipleship and mentorship, taking us beyond the pulpit and into the trenches where real growth and steadfast faith are nurtured through life's shared experiences. We're reminded that the path to spiritual maturity isn't just walked alone; it's a road built on the bonds of mentorship and community.
The transformative effect of service ripples through society like a stone cast into still waters, and this episode captures the essence of that impact. We recount the narrative of a simple church volunteer program that evolved into a movement, ensnaring the heart and spirit of an entire city. From individual acts of kindness to a collective force of change, we witness how volunteerism not only shapes the physical environment but also carves out spaces for personal growth and civic leadership. It's a powerful reminder that our humble contributions can indeed fan the flames of growth and inspire a legacy of service within our communities.
Journeying with us to the heart of global spiritual leadership, we examine how the gospel's message forges connections across cultures and continents. From the boardrooms of high-stakes business to the covert congregations of Iran's underground churches, the influence of servant leadership is unmistakable. We share insights into the burgeoning Christian movement in the Middle East, particularly in Egypt, where the seeds of faith are sprouting in the unlikeliest of places. Through stories of courage and conviction, this episode celebrates the leaders who are reshaping worlds, one conversation, one disciple at a time.
For more on Brave Men and our host @paullouiscole, make sure to follow us on socials.
To donate to Christian Men’s Network, visit https://cmn.men/ - and make sure to follow all that God is doing through the ministry around the world @christianmensnetwork or on our youtube page https://www.youtube.com/@ChristianMensNetwork
(00:00) Training Leaders in Men's Discipleship
(16:57) City Volunteerism and Community Impact
(23:08) Empowering Men to Make a Difference
(34:30) Church Impact in the Middle East
(40:03) Finding the Man of Peace
(55:48) Building Discipleship Through Conversation
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
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
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
Discover the unexpected treasure trove of wisdom with Robbie Angle, president and CEO of True Face, as he shares his transformative journey from achievement-driven existence to a life steeped in the grace of Christ. Robbie's remarkable stories, including his charitable exploits in Pakistan and profound rooftop realizations, shed light on the true meaning of discipleship and the role of character and courage in exemplifying Jesus in today's world. Our candid conversation traverses the intricate dance between faith and the pressing demands of modern masculinity, offering listeners a glimpse into the life of a man fully committed to following Christ.
Allow me to take you on a heartfelt exploration of what it means to juggle the responsibilities of leading a ministry with the joys and challenges of fatherhood. Robbie's insights on intentional relationships and the example set by Jesus Himself emphasize the power of focused fellowship in our spiritual walk. Painstakingly we unpack the misconceived notions of grace as a passive attribute, revealing instead its dynamic force that incites love, cultivates the fruits of the Spirit, and reshapes our daily lives.
As we conclude this powerful episode, the conversation moves towards the attractive nature of living in true identity through Christ. The theology of grace comes alive as we examine the historical and moral complexities of our faith journey. Robbie and I also highlight the vital role of community in keeping us anchored to the grace that defines us. Join us as we encourage the brave men among us to embrace their spiritual journey with courage, guided by the resources and discipleship programs available to help them thrive in their faith and everyday lives.
Visit https://CMN.men for more information and resources.
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(0:00:00) - Men's Discipleship and True Grace
Robbie Angle shares his journey through faith and discipleship, exploring masculinity and the transformative power of living in grace.
(0:11:47) - The Convergence and Meaning of Discipleship
Father's influence, vocational calling, discipleship, mission work, personal transformation, and service in Christian ministry.
(0:16:05) - Understanding the Concept of Grace
Grace, identity, and discipleship are explored, challenging misconceptions and inspiring active love through a secure identity in Christ's love.
(0:22:59) - Navigating Tensions in Life and Fatherhood
Balancing ministry and fatherhood, navigating tensions, and finding wisdom in managing family and work life.
(0:38:47) - Intentional Relationships in Discipleship
Relationships in spiritual growth, intentional discipleship, Jesus's example, and the allure of social media popularity.
(0:50:06) - The Theology of Grace and Living
Transformative journey of discipleship, embracing new identity in Christ, tension between seeking answers and embracing mysteries of faith.
(0:54:29) - Exploring Grace in Faith
Grace transforms Christian life, redefining the relationship between being and doing. Faith in a works-focused world, community, and historical context are discussed.
(1:06:56) - Brave Men
Christian Men's Network supports men's spiritual journey with resources, discipleship programs, and Brave Men podcast.