This is How We Thrive

This Is How We Thrive - The Emily Chapman Episode

In this episode, host Alisha Bynum sits down with Emily Chapman for a behind-the-scenes conversation about Annual Conference 2026 and the preparation that goes into bringing the event to life. Together they discuss the planning process, the importance of creating meaningful experiences for attendees, and the excitement surrounding this year’s gathering. Along the way, Emily shares insights from her own leadership journey, the value of teamwork and collaboration, and what she hopes people will experience when they gather together for Annual Conference this year. Those who would like to be considered as a future guest are invited to submit a Thrive Story at https://www.txcumc.org/share-a-thrive [https://www.txcumc.org/share-a-thrive]. Whether someone serves in a formal leadership role or lives out their faith in quiet and faithful ways, their story can encourage others and help strengthen connection across the conference.

This is How We Thrive - AC 2026 Worship Episode

In this episode, host Alisha Bynum sits down with Nikki Gray and Stephen Martin to talk all things worship for this year’s Texas Annual Conference. Together they share their vision for worship, what attendees can expect throughout the week, and how music, prayer, and sacred moments will help shape the conference experience. Along the way, Nikki and Stephen share personal stories, ministry insights, and what excites them most as they help lead worship for this year’s gathering. Those who would like to be considered as a future guest are invited to submit a Thrive Story at https://www.txcumc.org/share-a-thrive [https://www.txcumc.org/share-a-thrive]. Whether someone serves in a formal leadership role or lives out their faith in quiet and faithful ways, their story can encourage others and help strengthen connection across the conference.

This Is How We Thrive - The Steve Woody Episode

In this episode, host Alisha Bynum sits down with Steve Woody, District Superintendent of the Northeast District in the Texas Annual Conference. Together they explore Steve’s extraordinary journey of faith—from childhood heartbreak and seasons of deep loss to a life-changing encounter that forever shaped his call to ministry. Along the way, Steve shares powerful stories of family, struggle, grace, and the moments that reminded him God was never finished writing his story. He also reflects on how those experiences continue to shape the way he walks alongside clergy, supports local churches, and leads with compassion, courage, and hope across the Northeast District. Those who would like to be considered as a future guest are invited to submit a Thrive Story at https://www.txcumc.org/share-a-thrive [https://www.txcumc.org/share-a-thrive]. Whether someone serves in a formal leadership role or lives out their faith in quiet and faithful ways, their story can encourage others and help strengthen connection across the conference.

This Is How We Thrive - The Vincent Harris Episode

In this episode, host Alisha Bynum sits down with Rev. Dr. Vincent Harris, pastor and Director of the African American Church Initiative (AACI) and We Love All God’s Children for the Texas Annual Conference. Together they explore what it really looks like for the Church to move from an inward focus to becoming more deeply engaged in the communities it serves. Vincent shares why community engagement matters now more than ever and how churches can live out their faith in ways that make a lasting impact.Along the way, you’ll also hear about Vincent’s own journey in ministry, the experiences that shaped his leadership, and the heart and vision that continue to guide his work as he helps strengthen the future of the Church.Those who would like to be considered as a future guest are invited to submit a Thrive Story at https://www.txcumc.org/share-a-thrive. Whether someone serves in a formal leadership role or lives out their faith in quiet and faithful ways, their story can encourage others and help strengthen connection across the conference.

This Is How We Thrive - The Laura Althaus Episode

In this episode, host Alisha Bynum sits down with Laura Althaus, a delegate to the upcoming Vision Gathering in Calgary, Canada, hosted by the Council of Bishops this fall. Together they explore Laura’s call to ministry, what it means to be a young person navigating leadership in the Church, and the importance of showing up authentically in every context of ministry.