EQLife with Baron Sovory

Pastoring the Pastors | Will Penick

This week I got to sit down with Will Penick, Ministerial Director for the Southeastern California Conference (SECC) — one of the largest Adventist conferences in the country, serving close to 70,000 members across Southern California. Will stepped into the Ministerial Director role in November 2023, but his journey to get there? Far from traditional. Raised in a pastor's home, Will spent years trying to do anything but ministry. We talk about that tension, the wrestling match with calling, and what it finally took for him to say yes. We also get into The Journey — a retreat SECC runs specifically for pastors that's tackling burnout head-on and helping ministers actually get fed spiritually, not just keep pouring out. This conversation is needed. And we wrap up talking about the future of the Church — where it's headed, what's at stake, and what Will thinks will actually move the needle.

From Addiction to Anthem: Robert Hawkins on Recovery, Faith, and Finding Your Voice

In this deeply moving episode of EQ Life, Pastor Baron sits down with Robert L. Hawkins—NRT artist, songwriter, and founder of The Recovery Gathering—for an honest conversation about deliverance, emotional healing, and living one day at a time. Robert shares his powerful journey from drug addiction to lasting recovery, and how an unshakable hope in Jesus Christ reshaped his identity, purpose, and creativity. We explore how faith, self-awareness, and community play a critical role in recovery, and how music became both a lifeline and a ministry. The conversation also highlights Robert’s latest releases, “Serenity Prayer” and “Just for Today,” along with his upcoming EP, The Recovery Journey—projects rooted in healing, reflection, and restoration. As his nonprofit celebrates three years of impact, Robert offers wisdom for anyone navigating addiction, trauma, or major life transitions. This episode is a reminder that recovery is not just about breaking free from addiction—it’s about rediscovering hope, rebuilding the inner life, and learning how to live fully in the present moment. iamrhawkins.com [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=channel_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbXNfZklxTzh4WlpUSzUtY2x3bm5oUWQ5azA4QXxBQ3Jtc0ttWW1ReFFtbDNHR2FvUnhicWY2RkcyNjlzNmJtLXI2aUtfWVJxaFNtelhObUo1V0RXV0lyMmhQZEUycHp4MjVoXzhpY05QXzFtM1YtU2NmdDNpTGs5VTd6dm0xRDhHNUkwX0d3TkladHV2Tk1xWUgtUQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Fiamrhawkins.com%2F]

“Faith in Motion: Dr. Alphonso Greene on Leadership, Transition, and Trusting God’s Next Move”

In this engaging episode of EQLife, Dr. Baron Sovory talks with Dr. Alphonso Greene, Senior Pastor of the Mt. Rubidoux Seventh-day Adventist Church in Riverside, California, about what it means to lead with faith and courage in today’s changing culture. Dr. Greene shares his journey of transitioning his family across the country and stepping into a new ministry assignment—offering powerful lessons on discernment, adaptability, and trusting God through seasons of uncertainty. Together, they discuss the realities of modern church leadership, the importance of family in ministry, and how faith continues to be the compass for effective, compassionate leadership.

“Fathers Who Lead: Dr. Delroy Brooks on Integrity, Influence, and the Legacy of Leadership”

In this heartfelt and thought-provoking episode of EQLife, Dr. Baron Sovory sits down with Dr. Delroy Brooks, staff pastor at Kansas Avenue Seventh-day Adventist Church in Riverside, California, and a community and justice advocate whose work champions strong families and authentic leadership. Together, they explore the deep connection between fatherhood, integrity, and influence—and how these three pillars shape not only men, but entire communities. Dr. Brooks shares personal insights from ministry and mentoring, emphasizing that leadership rooted in character and compassion has the power to transform lives.

Leading with Grace and Grit: Patty Maruffo on Faith, Culture, and Calling

In this inspiring episode of EQLife, Dr. Baron Sovory sits down with Patty Maruffo, Executive Secretary of the Southeastern California Conference of Seventh-day Adventists—one of the largest and most diverse conferences in the North American Division. Patty opens up about her remarkable journey from local ministry to executive leadership, offering an honest and insightful look at what it means to lead with integrity, compassion, and cultural awareness in today’s church. As a Latina woman in ministry, she shares candid reflections on navigating representation, inclusion, and leadership in spaces where her voice—and presence—carry deep meaning for future generations. Together, Baron and Patty explore: * The evolving role of women in pastoral and executive leadership. * The challenges and blessings of serving a diverse, multicultural faith community. * How personal calling and organizational leadership intersect in modern ministry. * Practical wisdom on staying grounded while leading through complexity and change. Patty’s story is one of perseverance, purpose, and quiet strength—a timely reminder that effective leadership begins with courage, authenticity, and faith. Whether you’re in ministry, leadership, or simply seeking to live with deeper purpose, this episode will encourage you to lead from your whole self—and to do so with grace and grit.