The Pulpit and Porch

The Episode We Never Planned (And Maybe Needed)

Sometimes the best conversations are the ones you never planned. After both of our scheduled guests unexpectedly had to cancel, Robert and Tony decided to do something we’ve never done before: sit down without an outline, without a script, and simply have a conversation. From hilarious stories and unexpected questions to reflections on friendship, life, faith, and everything in between, this episode reminds us that some of the best moments happen when life doesn’t go according to plan. So pull up a chair and join us for one of the most authentic conversations we’ve had on The Pulpit & Porch. If you’ve been with us from the beginning or you’re just discovering the show, we think you’ll enjoy getting to know us a little better. #ThePulpitAndPorch #Podcast #Friendship #Faith #LifeConversations #ChristianPodcast #Storytelling #PersonalGrowth

Leadership Isn't Power - with Jake Holmes

What does real leadership look like? In a culture obsessed with influence, titles, and recognition, Jake Holmes offers a different perspective: leadership is less about power and more about responsibility. In this episode of The Pulpit & Porch, Tony Marr and Robert Kell sit down with Jake Holmes, Mayor of Bristol, Virginia and External Affairs Manager for Appalachian Power, to explore leadership, community, service, and the future of Appalachia. Together they discuss what people misunderstand about leadership, why strong communities matter, the unique strengths of Appalachia, and what it means to invest your life in a place and its people. Whether you’re leading a business, a church, a family, or simply trying to make a difference where you live, this conversation will challenge you to think differently about influence and purpose. Topics Include: • Leadership and responsibility • Building strong communities • The future of Appalachia • Public service and civic engagement • Faith, values, and character • Purpose-driven leadership Subscribe to The Pulpit & Porch for weekly conversations about faith, leadership, purpose, storytelling, and personal growth. #ThePulpitAndPorch #Leadership #ChristianPodcast #Appalachia #CommunityLeadership #Purpose #FaithAndCulture #PersonalGrowth #BristolVA #PublicService

The Conversations That Changed Us: 6 Lessons We Didn’t Expect

What happens when you sit down with six incredible people and realize the conversations are connected in ways you never expected? In this special episode of The Pulpit & Porch, Tony and Robert return to the porch together to reflect on their recent conversations with Jody Powell, Jason Castleberry, Luc Johnson, Amanda Marr, Thomas Dismukes, and Trevor Wentt. Instead of simply looking back, they explore the deeper themes that emerged: leadership, purpose, faith, resilience, creativity, service, and what it really means to live a meaningful life. Every conversation leaves something behind. A question. A challenge. A new perspective. In this episode, Tony and Robert unpack the lessons they are still carrying with them, and invite you to consider what conversations have shaped you. Grab a cup of sweet tea and join the conversation. #ThePulpitAndPorch #ChristianPodcast #FaithAndLife #LeadershipPodcast #PersonalGrowth #PurposeDrivenLife #ChristianLeadership #LifeConversations #Podcast

Why Are So Many Men Struggling Silently? w/ Jody Powell

In this episode of The Pulpit & Porch, Tony sits down with Jody Powell, host of Falls Count Anywhere and Men Like Us on Abundant TV Network, for an honest conversation about masculinity, mental health, ministry, authenticity, and the struggles many men quietly carry. Jody shares his unique journey through professional wrestling, why unconventional ministry often reaches people traditional church culture misses, and how storytelling, brotherhood, and honesty can become powerful tools for healing and connection. The conversation also dives deeply into: * men’s mental health * loneliness and isolation * emotional struggles men hide * faith and masculinity * why authenticity matters * ministry outside church walls * finding purpose through unexpected paths This episode is thoughtful, funny, vulnerable, and deeply relevant for anyone navigating faith, identity, leadership, or emotional struggle in today’s world. The Pulpit & Porch — real conversations about life, faith, purpose, culture, and the stories that shape us. Connect with Jody: https://www.facebook.com/jodypowell [https://www.facebook.com/jodypowell] Instagram @therealjodypowell Search for Men Like Us on Facebook www.abundant.com [http://www.abundant.com/] Falls Count Anywhere- Every Monday Night at 7:00 pm EST on Abundant TV Men Like Us- Third Wednesday of every month at 8:00 pm EST on Abundant TV

He Survived War… But Almost Lost Himself w/ Jason Castleberry

In this episode of The Pulpit & Porch, Tony sits down with pastor and military veteran Jason Castleberry for a powerful conversation about war, trauma, PTSD, identity, faith, and redemption. Jason shares his journey from growing up in Texas to serving in the airborne infantry, completing 25 operational jumps, surviving a parachute malfunction that changed the trajectory of his life, and later serving as a UAV drone operator during the Iraq War after 9/11. But this episode isn’t just about military service. It’s about what happens after survival. Jason opens up honestly about PTSD, smoking, drinking, emotional numbness, near-death experiences, and the difficult transition back into civilian life. He shares how his daughter eventually helped lead him toward faith in Christ, and how that journey ultimately led him into vocational ministry at a small rural church in Montana. This conversation explores: * PTSD and mental health * military trauma and identity * masculinity and emotional struggle * faith, healing, and redemption * purpose after pain * what real strength actually looks like This is one of the most honest and moving conversations we’ve had on The Pulpit & Porch. Real conversations about life, faith, leadership, purpose, and the stories that shape us. Connect with Jason: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567179489505 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567179489505] https://www.instagram.com/fbcplevna/ [https://www.instagram.com/fbcplevna/] https://www.tiktok.com/@fbc.plevna [https://www.tiktok.com/@fbc.plevna]