Brave Men Podcast

At age 14, Luke Richey wasn't your typical teenager; he was hacking into banks and postal services. But that was just the beginning of his wild journey from a life of chaos to a man of faith.  Today Luke is a world leader in Augmented Reality and the front edge of internet development. 

It is a compelling story of his early days as a messed up teen-age hacker to becoming a world-class software developer. His innovative work with his company Gravity Jack is making waves in the tech industry. His journey is a testament to the power of the Holy Spirit and the redemptive power of Jesus.

From battling substance abuse and suicidal impulses to experiencing a near-fatal overdose, his struggles brought him to the brink of despair. Yet, it was a divine encounter at church that led to his miraculous healing and spiritual awakening. Luke opens up about the emotional turmoil, the moment of God’s intervention, and the subsequent transformation that not only saved his life but also gave him a renewed sense of purpose. This episode offers a deeply moving narrative of redemption, resilience, and faith.

Here’s also a realistic explanation of how new AI and Augmented Reality can be used to bring the Gospel to men around the world - this is really fascinating. 

Brave Men is a production of the Christian Men’s Network. The host, Paul Cole, can be found on most social platforms at @paullouiscole . CMN has multiple outlets on YouTube and at CMN.men . You’ll find resources to build your life spiritually, disciple your family and tools to use for men’s groups and ministry to men. Tell someone, click subscribe and hang with us every week! 

(0:00:12) - Exploring Augmented Reality With Gravity Jack
(0:14:14) - Miraculous Healing and Transformation
(0:24:55) - Family Healing and New Beginnings
(0:29:30) - Expanding Possibilities Through Augmented Reality
(0:44:17) - Harnessing Technology for Global Impact
(0:50:43) - Strengthening Brotherhood Through Augmented Reality
(0:58:54) - Embracing Human Connection Without Limits

What happens when a distinguished leader decides to challenge deeply rooted religious attitudes and inspire a faith-filled journey across continents? Simon McIntyre, a pivotal figure in the C3 Church Movement, shares his transformative story from the early days of church planting in Australia to his influential roles in Europe and the Americas. Through his candid recounting of personal loss, remarriage, and heartfelt anecdotes, Simon provides profound insights that will resonate with anyone seeking a stronger passion for following Jesus Christ..

Simon’s journey is far from conventional. From a legendary plastic Jesus statue to the remarkable organic growth of C3 Church in Sydney to a global network of nearly 600 churches. Unplanned and divinely guided, C3's expansion showcases the power of genuine faith-led initiatives over human-centric planning. Simon’s reflections on the unpredictable path of church planting and navigating cultural divides offer a refreshing perspective on spiritual leadership and community building.

In this episode, we also tackle the complex themes of grief and hope, contrasting genuine assurance with wishful thinking. Simon’s heartfelt story of meeting Valerie and finding love again after the loss of his wife Helen highlights the importance of emotional readiness and divine timing. From the power of rest and historical Christianity to the balance between meaningful influence and the dangers of fame, Simon's journey offers invaluable lessons for those dedicated to a life of faith, leadership, and authentic spiritual growth. Join us for an episode filled with wisdom, reflection, and inspiration.

Brave Men is a production of the Christian Men’s Network. The host, Paul Louis Cole, is a licensed minister with C3 Church Global, a family of churches in over 60 nations. For resources to disciple the men in your world go to CMN.men

(00:12) Christian Church Movement With Simon McIntyre
(09:11) Journey to Church Planting in Australia
(18:20) Unplanned Growth of C3 Church
(31:56) Navigating Hope Versus Fantasy in Grief
(38:44) Meeting Valerie and Overseas Church Planting
(45:52) Unplugging in the Wilderness
(55:30) Navigating Fame and Influence in Ministry
(01:07:51) Rediscovering Historical Christianity and Orthodoxy

True identity is not found on a resume or LinkedIn profile … it’s found in your story. But what has shaped your story? Join me for a fascinating exploration of identity as we celebrate the launch of my new book, "Identity: Finding the Real You and Why It Matters." This episode is a deep dive into how the narratives we believe about ourselves influence our decisions and behaviors.

I share actionable steps like reading the Bible and engaging with a supportive community to help you live boldly and courageously in Christ. We hit some of the unique 40 days of affirmations designed to boost faith and self-discipline that are in the book Identity.

We hit a crucial issue many men face: the link between identity and self-worth. Too often, our self-worth becomes entangled with our professions, leaving many feeling trapped in roles they never consciously chose. By examining biblical stories like that of Samuel and David, we illustrate the importance of rooting our identity in being followers of Jesus Christ rather than in mere professional achievements. This episode sheds light on the heart's role in shaping our actions and sense of self-worth, urging you to align more deeply with God's spirit.

Brave Men is a production of the Christian Men’s Network. A global producer of tools and resources for discipling men and families. The host is Paul Louis Cole who you can follow on socials at @paullouiscole. 

 

(00:14) Identity and Brave Men Podcast Launch
(06:39) Identity and Self-Worth in Men
(21:28) Favor Always Attracts a Fight
(30:18) Identity and Spiritual Warfare

Here’s some hope in your leadership journey. This week, explore the intrinsic connection between joy and a deep-seated relationship with Jesus with my guest, great friend Michael Murphy and our guest host this episode, my son Brandon Cole. They discuss how joy can act as a spiritual barometer and the profound impact of authentic community within the church. 

With Mike's insights from his book "XLR8" and his extensive experience in coaching pastors, along with Brandon's fresh perspective from his years leading a local congregation, C3 Fort Worth, this conversation is a treasure trove of wisdom to deepen your faith and leadership skills.

Unpacking the complexities of ministry to men and the evolving narrative of masculinity in today's society they confront the barriers in our culture today. Obstacles that obscure our joy, like unresolved conflicts and internal insecurities. They hit the need for authenticity in cultivating true joy and the fruits of the spirit. 

In this fascinating convo, they tackle the pressing issues facing church leaders - from the challenges of pastoral mentorship to the pitfalls of focusing too heavily on church attendance and finances as a metric. They rebuild the metric of success shifting it towards intentional disciple-making and investing in people as the hallmark of a thriving ministry. This episode is an invitation to all who seek to balance leadership, personal growth, and community in their lives, reminding us of the constants amidst a world in flux: the Holy Spirit, the Word, the Church, and our shared mission.

Brave Men is a production of the Christian Men’s Network. A global men’s discipleship movement you can find the resources you need to disciple men at CMN.men

(0:00:00) - Finding Joy in Following Jesus

(0:05:30) - Men's Ministry and Legacy of Faithfulness

(0:15:29) - Evolving Masculinity and Joy in Christianity

(0:26:11) - Challenges and Revelations in Pastoral Work

(0:30:17) - Leadership, Disciple-Making, and Church Growth

(0:42:24) - Power of Positive Confession and Community

(0:52:23) - Navigating Church Leadership and Personal Growth

(0:59:05) - Generational Transition in Church Leadership

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

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

From the chaotic streets of a fatherless childhood to the hard knocks of an NFL training camp Otto Kelly made one major decision - he would be the dad that stays. A celebrated college football career put Otto in the middle of the spotlight … it could have gone either way. How does a man react when faced with heavy choices? Otto Kelly shares with us what character does in the midst of pressure and temptation. 

Otto Kelly is a significant voice of hope and reason in navigating today’s chaotic culture. He has won NAACP awards for his work with young men at risk, he was the Executive Director of the Crisis Pregnancy Center in Reno, Nevada for fifteen years, has an outreach called “Sons to Men” and is also Vice-President of the Global Fatherhood Initiative. Listen in as my good friend Otto Kelly, a dynamic minister, author, and influential speaker, joins me to uncover the life-altering power life in Christ. Our heartfelt discussion navigates the critical role of faith and fatherhood in fostering societal change. As we reflect on Otto's journey from athlete to the executive director of the Crisis Pregnancy Center in Reno, we shed light on the profound effects of mentorship, responsibility, and the Global Fatherhood Initiative's mission to combat the root causes of poverty.

Our heartfelt discussion doesn't shy away from the tough topics—confronting the "father wound" many face and exploring the healing that faith can bring. By sharing personal stories and insights, Otto and I expose how the absence or presence of a father figure can shape lives. We also celebrate the way sports and family values intertwine to sculpt our sense of self. The episode is a testament to the idea that every individual has the potential to rise above adversity, guided by the steadfast hand of God, faith in Christ and a sense of identity - fueling their inherent worth and purpose.

Brave Men is hosted by Paul Louis Cole, President of the Christian Men’s Network. https://CMN.men

(00:00) Power of Spoken Words
(09:17) Identity Formation and Fatherhood in Conversation
(15:52) Father Wound and Healing Through Faith
(28:15) Speaking Truth Over Self
(38:56) Crisis Pregnancy Center and Pro-Love
(50:34) Conversations on Compassion and Love
(58:01) Power of Identity and Love
(01:07:23) Discovering Purpose Through God's Love

Girls, cars, fame and money. It sounded like the best life. Then it wasn’t. Enter a powerful and deeply moving conversation with our guest Joshua Broome, a former adult film star who has emerged a warrior from the shadows of a life once defined by exploitation and emptiness.

Joshua courageously takes us through his struggle with fatherlessness, the allure of the adult film industry and the eventual realization of his true worth. It's an intimate exploration of identity, the impact of absent fathers on life choices, and the remarkable power of mentorship and spiritual guidance that led to his monumental shift from despair to triumph.

Joshua's raw account of being called by name at his lowest point is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the redemptive power of faith and community.

This episode isn't just a tale of darkness; it's also a beacon of hope for those seeking redemption. Joshua's heartfelt account of his personal awakening to the love and grace of Jesus Christ opens a new horizon for listeners grappling with their own battles. Joshua also introduces his new book, "Seven Lies That Will Ruin Your Life," promising to lead readers away from the empty promises of the world and toward the fulfilling embrace of faith.

To build a stronger walk with God, to live in hope, redemption and faith – subscribe to the Brave Men podcast - this is how to build a positive mindset.

Brave Men is a production of the Christian Men’s Network. Hosted by Paul Louis Cole, author, speaker and the host of Monday Night Men. You can find resources for mentorship and Christian discipleship for men at, https://CMN.men. You’ll find Paul at PaulLouisCole on social media.

(00:00) Fatherlessness and the Adult Film Industry Journey
(12:38) Recruitment Into the Adult Film Industry
(26:15) The Impact of the Pornography Industry
(39:34) Pornography's Impact on Lives and Recovery
(46:42) Encountering Jesus

How does a small Hawaiian fish and a depressive episode lead to healing? When the weight of anxiety began to press heavily on Toby’s shoulders he discovered that healing could start right in the family's heart. That journey led him to create a workshop to strengthen those pivotal connections, laying the foundation for this deeply personal episode. 

The small story of “Be a Goby” brings us into a larger story of vulnerability, resilience, and hope, reflecting on Pastor Toby Slough's journey through his own mental health struggles. His candid message that it's "okay to not be okay" resonates throughout our conversation, weaving together the theme of parental well-being and the emotional health of our children. This is a ‘must-share’ episode of Brave Men.

The narrative takes a tender turn as we unpack "Be a Goby," Pastor Toby's children's book written as a lighthouse for young minds battling loneliness and anxiety. The pages of this story extend beyond the book, offering a haven of confidence, courage, and compassion through its accompanying website.

Our producer Bryce joins me in this show for a look into the healing presence of God and how the love of others is a part of the process. I’ve been reflecting on the remarkable stories that fill this Brave Men podcast season. Stories that echo across generations, for our sons and daughters, grandchildren, spouses and loved ones. It really is about the journey of faith and courage and wisdom and finding Jesus in the midst of our worst moments. Hope!

In our final moments, Pastor Toby joins us to call upon bravery and courage in the face of life's challenges. We explore the transformative role of faith and mindset in shaping our futures, touching on how the teachings of Jesus and Paul can renew one's sense of self. The chapter closes with a prayer for bravery, an invitation to listeners to step into their destinies with boldness, breaking free from the cycles that have long held sway over their families. This episode isn't just a conversation; it's a passage to God given empowerment for anyone ready to make those pivotal, life-altering decisions.

Subscribe to Brave Men — share it. Take a step with us into a future where every challenge is an opportunity for growth and every narrative is a testament to grace of God and the power of the Holy Spirit to impute resilience into our hearts. Brave Men is a production of the Christian Men’s Network. Paul is the President of this global movement which can be found at CMN.men.

(00:00) Parents' Mental Health and Healing
(03:43) Be a Gobi
(08:28) Overcoming Fear and Anxiety
(20:41) Healing With Truth and Faith
(31:15) Family Identity and Mental Wellness Building
(44:46) Coaching, Shame, Help in the Church
(55:40) Embracing Bravery and Courage in Life

When the hum of an engine syncs with the whispers of faith, life takes a turn toward the extraordinary—this is the story Barry Meguiar and I share in our latest conversation. As I sit with Barry, a car enthusiast with a heart ignited for Jesus, we journey through the lanes of his family's historic car care legacy and how it parallels the spiritual wisdom gained from a life attuned to God's guidance. Personal tales of perseverance and answered prayers serve as signposts, reminding us that unwavering faith can steer us through life's sharp turns and into paths lit with divine purpose.

Barry is the President of Meguiar’s, a 100-year-old family business that manufactures the leading Meguiar's brand of car care products for cleaning and protecting automotive surfaces. He has been one of the most visible “car guys” in the world as the two-decade host of the award-winning TV show “Car Crazy”.

The episode takes a reflective turn as I share about my wife and me and our own moments of rediscovering joy within our walk of faith. A profound shift in perspective transformed our sense of duty into a powerful life of passion. This enriched our marriage and deepened our understanding of true ministry. It is a strong reminder that sharing our faith shines a beacon of hope in even the darkest corridors, lighting up our walk with Jesus. 

Our high-octane discussion culminates with an invitation to embrace the nudges of the Holy Spirit, to defeat fear with faith, and to discover the unshakeable joy that comes from living freely in God's favor. With passionate stories we explore how our smallest gestures can have the largest impact, shaping lives and legacies. Whether you're a gearhead, a seeker, or just someone curious about the intersection of passion and faith, this episode offers a roadmap to igniting a life of purpose, fulfillment, and joy.

Brave Men is a production of the Christian Men’s Network. The host, Paul Louis Cole, is president of this diverse multi-national movement, which may be found at https://CMN.men 

(0:00:00) - The Power of Following the Nudge

(0:05:06) - Barry Meguiar 

(0:17:15) - Finding Joy in Full-Time Ministry

(0:30:51) - Ignite Your Life

(0:44:55) - Follow the Nudge, Live Freely

(0:51:19) - Defeating Fear and Finding Joy

Mike was 21 and suddenly the single dad of Courtney, his 2 year old little girl. Now what do you do? And what will the future hold? The journey from that painful and difficult time to pastoring one of the most vibrant churches in America is a powerful, uplifting and dynamic story. From meeting Jesus to meeting his wife Lisa it is a compelling testimony of the beauty of God’s grace. Join Paul Louis Cole and Mike Kai for a captivating Bravemen Podcast.

Originally from Honoka'a on the Big Island of Hawai'i, Mike’s personal testimony of finding Jesus during a crucial stage of his life sparked his calling to serve God, the people of Hawai'i and the world. Today with his wife Lisa they pastor Inspire Church, a multi-campus community of faith in Hawaii. Mike leads the annual Kingdom Man Conference, and the Equip and Inspire Conference, which has attendees from across the Hawaiian Islands, US Mainland, and Internationally.

Mike and Lisa reside on Oahu and are the proud parents of three daughters and two grandchildren. Mike is the author of The Pound for Pound Principle, That Doesn’t Just Happen and other great titles. Lisa is the author of Perfectly You.

BraveMen is a production of the Christian Men’s Network. You can find Paul Cole’s bio on that site and resources for discipling men at CMN.men