The RISE Leadership Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

In this inaugural episode of "The RISE Leadership Podcast", we set the stage for what this resource is all about: equipping and inspiring leaders at Cross Church in Northwest Arkansas. Host Jeremy Dixon (Young Adults Pastor) is joined by Phil McMichael (Pastor of Ministries), Davin Benavides (Vice-President of Student Development and Mentoring), and Ryan Blackwell (Executive Pastor) to discuss the heart behind the podcast. Together, they explore the importance of developing volunteers, seminary residents, and staff, highlighting what Cross Church is already doing to invest in its leaders and how this podcast will take those efforts to the next level. With practical insights, vision casting, and a glimpse behind the curtain of Cross Church leadership development, this episode is both an introduction and a call to action for every listener to rise in their calling and impact their ministry, workplace, and community.

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In this episode of The RISE Leadership Podcast, Jeremy Dixon and Phil McMichael sit down with our senior pastor, Dr. Nick Floyd to explore what it means to lead in the local church. From personal leadership habits to influencing your family, workplace, and church, Pastor Nick shares wisdom gained from years of ministry experience. Together, they discuss lessons from his journey as a leader, navigating challenges, and the importance of integrity, vision, and servant-hearted leadership. Whether you’re a Dream Teamer, a seminary resident, or part of the Cross Church staff, this conversation is packed with practical advice and encouragement to help you grow as a leader in every area of your life.

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Join hosts Jeremy Dixon and Phil McMichael as they sit down with Dr. Ronnie Floyd, former Senior Pastor of Cross Church and a respected leader in ministry, to explore the supernatural power of prayer and fasting.  

In this episode, Dr. Floyd shares profound insights on how prayer and fasting can deepen your relationship with God, align your heart with His will, and empower you to lead with greater spiritual clarity and strength. Discover practical ways to incorporate fasting into your life and learn why this spiritual discipline is vital for influencing the world around you.  

Whether you’re a staff member, dreamteamer, resident, or simply seeking to grow in your faith, this episode will inspire you to pursue God’s presence with persistence, faith, and intimacy. Don’t miss this powerful conversation about a timeless practice that can transform your life and ministry.  

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Jeremy and Phil welcome Jennifer, one of our Women’s Ministry Directors, for a conversation about Women’s Ministry at Cross Church. Discover how this ministry creates space for women to grow in their faith, form meaningful relationships, and navigate life’s seasons with grace and community. If you are curious about what happens in Women’s Ministry, this episode has something for you.

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Join Jeremy and Phil as they sit down with Whitney, one of our Preschool Directors, to explore the heart of Preschool Ministry at Cross Church. From goldfish crackers to sharing the love of Jesus with the tiniest members of our church, this episode dives into how this ministry sets the foundation for a lifetime of faith, birth though kindergarten. Whether you’re a parent, a dream teamer, or simply curious about this ministry, this conversation will leave you inspired to get involved!

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In this episode, Jeremy and Phil sit down with Bryant, one of our Student Pastors, to explore world of Student Ministry. From navigating high school heartbreaks to tackling life’s toughest questions, Bryant shares how this ministry creates a space where teenagers can encounter Jesus and find authentic community. Whether you're considering joining the team or simply curious about investing in the next generation, this episode offers an inside look at the joys and challenges of shaping young lives for Christ.

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Jeremy and Phil are joined by Cam, one of our Kids Pastors, to talk all things Kids Ministry. From exciting events to the weekly hustle of teaching God’s Word in creative ways, this episode highlights the incredible impact of ministering to 1st through 6th grade kids. Tune in to hear how Kids Ministry equips the next generation for faith and how you can be a part of it!

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In this episode, Jeremy and Phil sit down with Mollie, one of our First Impressions Leaders, to talk about the ministry that makes every guest at Cross Church feel like they belong. From friendly greeters from the street to the seats, First Impressions Ministry is all about creating a welcoming environment where people can encounter Jesus. Tune in to learn how you can be part of this impactful team!

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In the next episode of the Rise Leadership Podcast, Cross Theological Seminary President Dr. Jeff Crawford discusses the factors to evaluate when considering a career move, and how to search for God’s will in that decision making process.

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In this episode of The RISE Leadership Podcast, Jeremy Dixon and Phil McMichael sit down with our 2025 Freedom Weekend Speaker, Mark Hutchinson. Mark — the Young Adult Pastor from Family Life Church in Tampa, Florida —will take us through his years as a football player at Florida International University, talk about the steps of obedience God led him to take, and how that led to almost 500 student athletes engaging in Bible studies across FIU and the University of Miami. In this episode we’ll look at overcoming fear, walking in obedience, and God’s perfect timing.

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