Explore every episode of the podcast The Seacoast Podcast: Things You Won't Hear On Sunday
Dive into the complete episode list for The Seacoast Podcast: Things You Won't Hear On Sunday . Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.
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Title
Pub. Date
Duration
118 - While She Was Sleeping (w/ Carolyn Haas)
01 Oct 2024
01:10:15
While in town to speak at the Chosen Women’s Conference, Pastor Carolyn Haas joined us in the studio to share about God's faithfulness throughout her life. Growing up in a family of faith, walking away from God, losing her father to suicide, and then returning to church after her boyfriend, Peter, had a life-changing encounter with God. Now her husband, Pastor Peter and Carolyn lead Substance Church in Minnesota, combining their strengths and weaknesses to complement a fruitful ministry.
We also talk to Carolyn about some common themes (and "debate-like" discussions) we've unpacked on the podcast including "The Billy Graham Rule," women in church leadership, and how much a Christian should be invested in spiritual warfare.
At the top of the episode, Roy Jacques, Tomelex Copeland, and Joey Svendsen talk to Lynne Stroy about her experiences at Chosen through the years and they assess the fine line between harmless joking and disrespectful ridicule when it comes to the things of the spiritual.
Atlanta-based hip-hop artist, 1K Phew joins us fresh off of his 30th birthday to share the meaning behind his “gospel rap.” A "self-proclaimed old soul,” wisdom included, 1K Phew grew up in church before chasing a different lifestyle and getting in trouble with the law. Through that experience, he had a spiritual rebirth and began a relationship with God. He has now taken the hip-hop scene by storm and in his own words, "gospel rap is back.”
In addition to his story, 1K Phew talks to Lynne Stroy and Joey Svendsen about the difference between being a "Christian artist" and "an artist who communicates Christian themes.” He also gives the rationale for why he collaborates with hip-hop artists who don't hold to Christian faith.
At the top of the episode, Lynne, Joey, and Luke Gaikwad discuss "the Cheers paradigm." The idea is that today when you look at pictures of TV stars who appeared in shows in the 1970s and 1980s, while in their 30s and 40s, look to us like they are in their 50s and 60s. It's a thing.
110 - Receiving God’s Love and Favor Through an Earthly Mother (w/ Pastor T)
06 Aug 2024
01:00:24
On this episode, Joey Svendsen and Lynne Stroy sit down for a conversation with their friend, Tomelex Copeland (Pastor T). Tomelex discusses his childhood, his journey to finding God, his involvement with Seacoast Church, and his realization of the depth of God’s grace through his mother's love despite his earthly father's absence.
Along the way, the three share laughs and tears as their conversation includes church metrics related to Seacoast campuses and race, whether this generation is “soft” when compared to Generation X,” and how Pastor T dislikes fake spiritual optimism. Joey wraps up the conversation with a new meaning of “stay in your lane” and Lynne sheds light on why she thinks some Christians, as a result of their political investment, lose sight of God’s Kingdom.
22 - No Country (w/ Propaganda and John Mark McMillan)
20 Jan 2023
00:58:53
Musician and song-writer, John Mark McMillanand Propaganda, (hip-hop/spoken word artist and author) join the show to talk about their upbringings, cultural makeups, different life experiences and their current world views, as a result. They both share some compelling thoughts on racism and inequality, through the lenses of Christian faith.
John Mark McMillan wrote a song "No Country," and Propaganda laid down some poetry on it. One close look at how Jesus interacted with people, it's clear how to let love lead the way. This is something our culture struggles greatly with and unfortunately, it's seeped into the church. The two, along with Joey, discuss this struggle in the context of faith and race, John Mark and Prop also share their heart in these issues that birthed the lyrics to this song collaboration.
Does everyone struggle with a level of racism? Are some races at an advantage over others, still in 2023? What does it mean to be an American when one is first and foremost a citizen in God's kingdom?
21 - What MLK Jr. Means to These Black Seacoast Folks and Why "Race Conversations" Are Still Hard
16 Jan 2023
00:51:39
Black pastors at Seacoast, Lynne Stroy and Joel Delph, join Lead Pastor Josh Surratt and host Joey Svendsen to discuss why publicly putting language to their lived experiences as black people is nerve-wracking; and given the limitations of words, very susceptible to being misconstrued.
The four discuss why conversations surrounding race is still difficult to this day, especially in the church. Could there be a spirit of division behind it all? Our lead pastor believes so. Why is the idea of systemic racism too offensive for some to even consider? What role do politics play in how people process all of this?
Joel and Lynne, alongside multiple African-Americans who are a part of the Seacoast family, also share what the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. means to them personally.
Seacoast Family, voices of black people (in order of appearance): Latoyya Jones / Facebook Josh Hall / Instagram Brenna Robinson / Instagram Tomelex Copeland / Facebook Amanda Snipe / Instagram Derrick Bellamy Deloris Sims Carol Etheridge / Facebook
Seacoast Family, voices of kids (not in order of appearance): Leia Benton, Eden Gaikwad, Roxie LaFalce, Rylan Jones, Jo Clement, Henley Rose Mabry
20 - Being a Pastor When You Love Everyone on Both Sides of Every Issue
05 Jan 2023
00:47:26
Naeem Fazel joins our lead pastor, Josh Surratt and Joey Svendsen to talk about being a Pastor when polarity seems to be at an all-time high in our country. Naeem, long-time pastor at Seacoast Church and former mentor to a "young Josh Surratt," moved to Charlotte in 2005 to plant Mosaic church and in 2014, wrote a book called, "Ex-Muslim."
Josh Surratt and Naeem Fazel, both lead pastors of churches, love all people and yearn for hope to be found and received by all. Along with Joey, the three talk about "church hurt," whether they find it important to refrain from having public connections with perennially, harm-causing Pastors, and the deeper issues at the root of the rampant division in the "capital C" church.
Naeem also shares instances of racism he's endured as a Pakistani American Pastor, many of these times, connected to folks' uneasiness of his ethnic background in the wake of the 9/11/01 attacks on America.
19 - Five Therapists Give (3) Bits of Advice for The New Year
02 Jan 2023
01:07:27
The five therapists speaking on this episode are:
Jen Rodriguez, 6 yrs licensed experience, 20+ in mental health. Area of focus: all age groups and backgrounds with trauma 3 recommendations: (1) learn how to love yourself, (2) how to love others, (3) you’ll now have better context to receive the greatest love of all (God’s love). Outside of her profession, Jennifer’s heart is fully invested in her ever growing family that includes her 20 year-old son, 19 and 5 year-old daughters, her daughter's boyfriend and the love of her life plus his two teenage kids. They love to travel, play games, and simply journey through life together.
Chip Judd, over 40 yrs experience 3 recommendations: (1) Slow down (2) decide what you want, and (3) do less Chip’s passion is to see people live well and finish strong. He loves his wife, 3 married kids and their families. He enjoys reading, listening to music.
Lyn Harrison, over 30 yrs experience Area(s) of Focus: Anxiety, Depression, other mood disorders 3 recommendations: (1) Lean into regrets to learn from them, (2) Savor a daily moment, and (3) learn to love yourself Lynne loves her husband and amazing children . She likes to read, workout, savor wonderful moments.
Michael Morris, 3 yrs experience (40 years pastoral counseling) Area(s) of Focus: Seeking to encourage folks to be healed from their emotional, mental & spiritual pain, leading them to freedom in the Lord. 3 recommendations: (1) Prioritize physical health, (2) recognize & address anxiety triggers, (3) monitor your environment. Michael loves his wife, 6 children with 2 son-in-laws, 1 daughter-in-law, & 4 grandchildren. He enjoys reading and spending time with his wife & some of his brothers in Christ.
Elizabeth Gillespie, 11 yrs experience, Tedx Talks (2022) Area of Focus: Therapy for couples and individuals in the context of attachment disorders. 3 recommendations: (1) Take steps toward healthy community, (2) pursue vulnerability within community, and (3) practice healthy conflict within community. Elizabeth loves her husband, three crazy kids, and puppy who all live in a tiny Colorado town with lots of community. She loves hiking, trail running, reading.
Pastor Greg stops by to talk "all things Christmas," while Nick Johnston (Seacoast's Controller) shares some thoughts on spending during the holidays.
For the main discussion, Josh Walters, Lynne Stroy and Joey Svendsen discuss Santa Claus, giving their take on the lies we tell our kids about him. The discussion broadens to dishonesty in general. Are there any circumstances in which telling a lie is more loving than telling the truth? In other words, is there such thing as a good lie?
17 - This Holiday Season, Mourn With Those Who Mourn
12 Dec 2022
01:09:46
It's the "most wonderful time of the year" for many of us. For others, it's a brutal reminder of a loved one's absence in the "most difficult time of the year."
Today's guest, Kathy Yokeley, wrote Not My Plans: When God Allows a Parent’s Worst Fear to Come True. When she gave birth to her daughter Natalie, the perfect family she’d dreamed of was complete—a loving husband, beautiful little boy and girl, even the family dog. That future was bright.
At the age of 12 Natalie was diagnosed with inoperable spinal cord cancer and Kathy’s picture-perfect world came crashing down. Nine nightmare months later, her precious daughter was gone.
Christmas was Natalie's favorite time of year, and every time the Holidays come back around, Kathy is painfully reminded of Nov 24th. 2008, when her daughter passed away. On this episode, listeners will hear about this extraordinary little girl and learn about grief from a mom who has walked in the shoes of every parents' worst nightmare.
Kathy Yokeley gives some guidance for those with loved ones and/or friends who are suffering this year, sharing what people said and did during times of deep grief, that were (and are) helpful to her. She also reflects on God's goodness and faithfulness in the most painful of trials, giving practical and spiritual insight for those grieving.
As the impactful reality of what took place settled into their lives, the extensive recovery process for the Todd family started initially in the hospital and continues on to this day.
Just shy of 5 years since that dreadful night, Brittney catches us up to speed on her and the Todd family's current progress in adapting to the new life they never asked for. From her urgent facial reconstructive surgeries to ongoing mental health therapy for the whole family, she also reflects on her spiritual resolve during the toilsome aftermath and how God’s presence was experienced through the loving embrace of community, fashioned only in a way that God could orchestrate.
Brittney gives a “good report” on her mental health, she shares her current processing of the attacker, and explains why she sometimes minimizes the pain he caused her and how anger and bitterness hasn’t played a significant role in her journey.
15 - A Pastor's Confession: Having an Addiction to Food (w/ Pastor Roy Jacques)
28 Nov 2022
00:41:01
Seacoast Summerville Campus Pastor Roy Jacques opens up about personal struggles with his weight. In High School, he was a State Champion Baseball player for the James Island Trojans. As an adult, he has struggled with his physical health. His main foe? A food addiction.
With two of his close friends, pastors Jeff Leinberger and Joey Svendsen, the three discuss whether Roy is "living in sin," given his lack of self-care. Roy lets us in on his up-and-down journey of finding healthier life habits and losing weight, then giving way to complacency. He talks about the impact his weight has on his confidence, his lack of success with accountability, and whether he considers this struggle "his Thorn" (2 Corinthians 12:17). In turn, Jeff shares his lifestyle of being physically in great shape, but for all the wrong reasons.
At the top of the episode, founding Pastor Greg Surratt shares his thoughts on various topics, including his wish for palmetto bugs and Carolinians to "live together peacefully." Lastly, Seacoast's HR Director Jenna Young stops by to discuss her delicate role of needing to know the good, bad, and ugly of the staff who are a part of the church she deeply loves.
14 - Can You Really Be Thankful in All Circumstances…even COVID?
21 Nov 2022
01:08:08
Is a heart posture of thanksgiving only possible when life is good? How is it that often in the toughest of circumstances, profound love and community rises to the surface, leaving one with deep gratefulness in the unlikeliest of circumstances.
In the context of three stories from the Seacoast family, we look at the gift of thanksgiving. Seacoast Ashville Campus Pastor Teddy Winter shares a story of high expectations squashed by unfortunate events that his family is still processing.
Lead Pastor Josh Surratt opens up about the gifts of thanksgiving he found during a low point when he literally fought for his life in a close call with COVID-19.
Lastly, Ragina Scott is the founder of the North Charleston non-profit Destiny Cafe, a pay what you can cafe that serves healthy and delicious meals. Ragina shares how the city came together to support the cafe and it's mission, when a major hurdle presented potentially stifling impact to operations.
13 - "The Devil Made Me Do It" (a frank discussion on spiritual warfare)
14 Nov 2022
00:46:36
The existence of spiritual warfare is an accepted reality for most Christians. "We battle not against flesh and blood," Paul says to the church in Ephesus. Is it safe to say that many Christians don't take this warfare serious enough? Equally, many Christians appear to be a bit too focussed on the "evil team," while not lending enough credence to other "foes" we have our hands full with (i.e. our personal health, our wrongdoings that harmfully affect us, and sins against us by others, just to name a few).
Julie Hiott, Jack Hoey III, Joey Svendsen and Chip Judd share candidly their thoughts on this matter, many of which is speculation because we simply can not know everything about this realm.
As a Christian, is it okay to “opt out” of the warfare and leave this fight to God and angels? Are certain people in the church called to be more cognizant of the spiritual realm while others are not? Are inanimate objects effective in battling evil spirits? Jude 1:6 seems to point to some demons being in prison. Why doesn’t God just lock them all up?
We ponder these and many more questions about these principalities, powers, rulers of the darkness of this world, and spiritual wickedness in high places.
109 - Watching the Mary Tyler Moore Show and Pondering How Far Society Has Come
30 Jul 2024
01:15:23
Lynne Stroy, Katie Walters, and Natasha Gray come straight to the podcast after watching an episode of The Mary Tyler Moore Show. Released in 1970, the show depicts Mary Richards, a single woman in her 30s, living in Minneapolis, trying to make a life for herself. The storyline seems archaic now, as society in 2024 is vastly more opportunistic for women. In today’s episode, we’ll ask, “How farhave we progressed from the country's dark history of racism and gender inequality?”
As these three ladies, alongside host Joey Svendsen, reflect on this question, they also discuss the role that ignorance plays in matters of inequality and what grace looks like when offered to those who have more learning to do. What sort of humility and understanding should one tap into when reflecting on past generations or societies in other parts of the world today that err on very important matters. The four also get into theology on women's leadership in the Church and wrap up the conversation talking about the The Chosen Women’s Conference, including a snippet of a woman's story whom, while attending, encountered freedom and forgiveness from a regretful decision she made a decade ago.
February 13th, 2018 started just like any other day for the Todd family who at the time were part of the Seacoast community in John's Island SC. Mother of 5, Brittany Todd, with her husband Kevin deployed out of state (U.S. Coast Guard), had just dropped her two oldest kids off at school, arriving home with plans of making breakfast for two of her younger kids while the baby was still comfortably nestled in her carseat from the ride home.
Seconds later, the Todd family would enter into a nightmare that would forever change the course of their lives when an intruder brutally attacked Brittany before fleeing to Alabama with one of Brittany's precious gifts: their 4-year old daughter, Heidi. The attack and kidnapping would sweep national news networks; and despite slim odds, this nightmare would have a happy ending.
Hear the grim details of this story and the seemingly miraculous events that led to Heidi's homecoming. Brittany shares her current processing of these traumatic events, where she's currently at in the recovery process, and how she feels about the perpetrator. This conversation will be continued in an upcoming episode as there is much more to tell in this story of perseverance that the Todd family continue demonstrating to this day.
Many Christians grew up going to "Hallelujah Nights" and "Harvest Fest" celebrations on October 31st; but dressing up, going "trick or treating" and celebrating Halloween? That's for #TeamSatan's biggest party of the year, where Christians have no business being.
But what about Christians who merely enjoy a night of dressing up, getting candy and having a little fun? Is Halloween's questionable roots significant enough to merit a Christian boycott? Jack Hoey rejects this notion and sees Halloween as an innocent night of fun for the kids.
Cheryl Brown, fellow "Seacoaster," has vastly differing convictions. Refraining from Halloween celebrations, according to her, falls in line with God's desire for Christians to be "set apart."
Jenny Mayer alongside her husband and mother (Ben Mayer and Debbie Surratt), sit down to talk about Jenny’s battle with breast cancer in 2019-20, a long season that turned their worlds upside down, including their children. Life simply does not play fair.
In this episode, listeners get a glimpse of the havoc a diagnosis like this can have on one's [family, marriage, finances, mental health] as well as the ups and downs of trying to keep the faith in the most challenging and painful of circumstances.
[This episode is dedicated to the strong overcomers who are breast cancer survivors, their loved ones who fought alongside them, and the loved ones of those who fought and lost their battle with breast cancer, on this side of heaven. ]
9 - Having it All and Still Wanting to Die (w/ Brian Welch of the band, Korn)
17 Oct 2022
00:46:24
On top of the world, Brian Welch was being listened to by millions of heavy music listeners which meant millions of dollars in the bank. Fast-pace living, always on tour, but always high on meth.
As a new dad, Brian wanted off his cycle and walked away from a $25 million record contract; but to get off the drugs, he would need a miracle.
Joey and Brian talk a lot about “the rock star life,” both of their struggles with mental illness, contentment, and some theology in light of miracles and prayer. Lastly, Brian’s cousin Scott Box wrote a book called “Heroic Disgrace,” a true story and reflections from a worship leader who struggles with bipolar disorder.
At top of episode, Josh and Jeanne Mitchum, from the Summerville Seacoast Campus, drop by to talk music, metal and the influence of Brian Welch’s band, Korn.
8 - After 25 Years of Marital Unfaithfulness, This Couple is Now Happily Married
10 Oct 2022
01:09:20
It's hardly ever simple. People who cheat on their spouses are usually good, decent and normal folks who have greatly lost their way.
Most people who have an extra-marital affair say later "I never thought this would happen to me." And hardly no one can anticipates the painful journey of working through this depth of betrayal. Fred and Terry Reed, both part of the Seacoast Family, walked this road after Fred was unfaithful for 25 years.
In the course of telling their story, Fred shares how he justified his multiple affairs for so long, he describes the relational power shift once he was caught and tells why complete devastation was the only path that could have led to his healing. He also marvels at the grace he received from God and Terry.
Terry explains how she coped with an unhappy marriage for so long and shares whether she accepts any blame in the affair. She describes how "trusting God" was the only way she could hang on long enough to see if "blue skies" with Fred was ever possible again.
They are now happily married and now use their experiences to help other struggling couples. Both found much of their healing through the love, support and guidance from their church family.
e-mail Jeremy Black for information on Re Engage (ministry for married couples discussed here)
7 - Love Your Enemy, Even If He Murders Your Wife to Start a Race War
03 Oct 2022
01:00:36
On June 17th, 2015, nine African Americans were gunned down during a bible study the shooter had been welcomed into with open arms. One of the victims, Myra Thompson, was the wife of today's guest, Reverend Anthony Thompson.
Through the telling of his story of those dreadful days, more clarity is given on how that tragedy unfolded behind closed doors and why. We also believe listeners will hear a story of miraculous forgiveness in a man’s heart. This miracle potentially was the catalyst of sparing Charleston SC from similar rioting that recently occurred in other parts of the country for other racially charged injustices.
We believe in this time of great polarization, the message of forgiveness is an important one. Along with his miraculous story of forgiving the man who murdered his wife, Rev Anthony is also helping to spearhead “events for unity” like "One New Humanity Charleston," on November 20.
Many pastors operate from a philosophy along these lines: "the people I lead cannot know of my mistakes. Because they are modeling after my example, they have to see me living right, so they will do the same." And the results? Time and time again, those people are shocked when it's discovered that their pastor, behind the scenes, has been on a path towards destruction.
On the other hand, many church folks still seem to enjoy having "their guy" they can look up to and be proud of, blissfully assuming their pastor to be walking the "straight and narrow." In turn, many pastors make the mistake of trying to live up to that assumption, and in order to do this long-term, it often requires secrets in the dark. Eventually that darkness is too much for any one to bear.
On this episode, Pastors Greg Surratt, Sharon Miller and Chip Judd discuss with Joey Svendsen, issues in the church that generally lead to these downfalls.
At the top of the episode, two pastors at Seacoast practice the transparency that is preached here, by sharing to the world personal short-comings, both of them still works of progress in their prospective challenges.
Grammy-Award winning hip-hop artist and New York Times best-selling author Lecrae talks about his book I Am Restored: How I Lost My Religion But Found My Faith. Lecrae’s life was headed towards disaster. More time on the road, less time with family, calendar loaded, substance abuse used as a remedy. In his gut-honest memoire, Lecrae shares the practices he uses in in his daily life for mental, emotional, and spiritual health. His is a story of restoration.
Many fans (as well as close personal friends of Lecrae's) made it clear that Lecrae should refrain from speaking his heart on racism after his 2014 record release, Anomaly, when he shares his views. Some of these friends have never spoken to him again.
Healing from the hurt, committing to extensive talks with a therapist, forming better life habits, and embracing a loving Savior in Jesus has landed Lecrae at a much better place. On top of sharing his story of restoration, Lecrae discusses with the host team, the beauty of the church, the ugly side as well; and how his mental health was restored.
4 - Seacoast Church's Political Statement (w/ Pastor Josh Surratt)
12 Sep 2022
00:36:06
Although political involvement has always been valued and many politicians from both "sides" of the aisle have found a church home at Seacoast, politics has never come close to being the basis for unity. Christ's love for the church and His desire to see love amongst us and for our neighbors, is what we set out to unite on. Not only will God's Kingdom be the last one standing, it's also the one our eyes get to be more focussed on and our hearts most invested in.
You'll hear the heart of Pastor Josh Surratt when it comes to political affiliation, the gospel, what he'd love for Seacoast to be known for, and who he thinks will run in 2024.
You'll also hear a collection of voices, as many folks from the Seacoast family share their personal approaches to politics in light of God's Kingdom. Included is a story about real hurt that can be caused in political discussions amongst church family and the reconciliation between these two "Seacoasters" who found a way of keeping first things first.
What would happen if as the church, we truly invested first and foremost, in unity of the Spirit?
Continuing where we left off in Part 1 of this conversation with Amie Patrick.
Amie Patrick is over two years into the tragedy of losing her husband, Darrin Patrick. His passing left all sorts of layers of questions. Could more have been done to prevent him from taking his life? What was going on that no one else knew about? Amie ponders a lot of questions with us and shares what she’s learned from walking through this nightmare.
At top of episode, Roy Jacques, Chip Judd and Joey Svendsen discuss a bit the affects Darrin’s passing had on Seacoast, as well as some mental health components focusing mostly on trauma.
Other topics covered on episode: Amie’s theology, Amie’s motherhood, Seeing people through eyes of love, mental health and the brain.
108 - Christian Movie Producer, His Thoughts and Practices on Ethics in the Film Industry
23 Jul 2024
01:06:24
Benjamin Ironside Koppin, a Christian, who recently produced the movie, “Pastor's Kid," joins its lead actress, Courtney Bandeko, and hosts Joey Svendsen and Lynne Stroy to discuss the movie and it’s R rating, despite its heavy Christian themes. The four discuss Christian ethics in the realm of entertainment, especially the types of roles and scenes that Christian actors should and shouldn't accept. Within all the "movie talk," Benjamin unpacks why he pushes the envelope in regards to offensive language and Courtney sheds light on the experiences of women in Hollywood, including her own.
At the top of the episode, Jeff Leinberger, Roy Jacques, Tomelex Copeland, and Joey Svendsen discuss rom-coms and whether they like them, name the funniest comedians in their generation, and share who their favorite actors and actresses are.
Amie Patrick is over two years into the tragedy of losing her husband, Darrin Patrick. His passing left all sorts of layers of questions. Could more have been done to prevent him from taking his life? What was going on that no one else knew about? Amie ponders a lot of questions with us and shares what she’s learned from walking through this nightmare.
At top of episode, Roy Jacques, Chip Judd and Joey Svendsen discuss a bit the affects Darrin’s passing had on Seacoast, as well as some mental health components focusing mostly on trauma.
Other topics discussed in this episode: Trauma, suicide, needed changes in the church surrounding mental health, and the lack of humanization so common in our society.
Part 2, to release Thursday 9/8: “Amie Patrick Part 2: The Present, The Future”
On this episode, we welcome former Seacoast Chief of Operations Jack Hoey Jr and author and activist Shane Claiborne as they discuss the morals surrounding wealth. While both men practice a life of generosity that would exceed most people, they read and process very differently the many passages in the bible pertaining to money.
At top of episode, co-hosts Jack Hoey III (son of Jack Hoey Jr) and Jacqui Dailey reflect on their upbringing surrounding money and Jack proposes that Americans, inside and outside of the church, are remarkably generous.
Shane Claiborne is a prominent speaker, activist, and best-selling author; worked with Mother Teresa in Calcutta, and founded The Simple Way in Philadelphia. He heads up Red Letter Christians, a movement of folks who are committed to living "as if Jesus meant the things he said." Shane is a champion for grace which has led him to jail advocating for the homeless, and to places like Iraq and Afghanistan to stand against war. Now grace fuels his passion to end the death penalty and help stop gun violence.
Grammy award-winning artist Brandon Lake used to run around Seacoast as a punk kid in youth group. In this episode, Brandon opens up about the importance of his hometown roots, how he handles the fame, his dreams for his career, and what frustrates him about the church. There's even an embarrassing story or two.
At the top of the episode, Pastor Josh and Lisa Surratt talk with host Joey Svendsen about why we started The Seacoast Podcast and how it can be an ingredient in depolarizing the church.
Full-Length Trailer: Things You Won't Hear On Sunday
21 Jul 2022
00:03:13
Seacoast Church was planted in 1988 when Mega Churches were just getting warmed up. Throughout this podcast, you'll hear the good, the bad, the redeemed, and the "still waiting for redemption" stories of Seacoast people, our friends and special guests.
Greetings to our Seacoast family and anyone just stopping by to take a look. Our hope is that you’ll join us on a journey to love our neighbors. What if the first step was listening?
Listen to the trailer and subscribe today. Episodes are released every Monday starting Aug 22nd, 2022.
107 - Ethical Considerations for a Future With A.I. (w/ Christian Futurist, Mal Fletcher)
16 Jul 2024
01:06:04
With the current explosion of artificial intelligence accessible to the common man, there are many questions yet to be answered. Excitement is in the air for some, but many find the possible implications for the future, unnerving.
Pastor Mal Fletcher, is referred to as a futurist. Through Christian lenses, he sheds light on what many fear, as a result of A.I.—to be an inevitable "job apocalypse." Is this a reasonable concern? Is it possible for A.I. robots to acquire consciousness? Will people be able to connect with entertainment and art manufactured by A.I.? As this new phenomenon becomes more and more advanced, is society headed toward utopia or dystopia? The questions are endless and although many are unanswerable, Mal has a depth of insight that sheds a lot of light on what is to come, for a future with A.I.
At the top of the episode, Jeff Leinberger, Tomelex Copeland, Roy Jacques, and Joey Svendsen reflect on A.I. in social media, the prospect of a woman president, and how Joey used A.I. to replicate real people's voices in order to fix glitched audio while producing a podcast.
106 - A Research on Mega Churches w/ a Glowing Report
09 Jul 2024
00:51:27
Jim Wellman started researching megachurches with a high level of skepticism, but after collecting the data, that all changed. In his book, High On God: How Megachurches Won the Heart of America, Jim shares the results of his investigation, and on today’s episode, he gives listeners a snapshot of the positive findings on megachurches. According to Jim, within the couple thousand megachurches in America, the number of scandals are minimal, the community one finds is incredibly beneficial to the human soul, and the good work these large churches do in society is staggering. With host Joey Svendsen, the two also speculate on the correlation between human emotion and "moves" of the Holy Spirit and how emotionally uplifting environments in themselves, are good for the soul.
Kicking off the episode, Jeff Leinberger, Roy Jacques, Tomelex Copeland, and Joey Svendsen discuss what it’s like behind the scenes at Seacoast Church, Pastor Tomelex’s experiences as an African American pastor in a predominantly white church, and some of their fears.
105 - The Southern Rock Seacoast Worship Leader (w/ Grayson Little)
02 Jul 2024
01:06:36
On today’s episode, Joey and Lynne talk with singer/songwriter, Grayson Little. Grayson grew up at Seacoast Church and has served at multiple Seacoast campuses as a worship leader, but has since pursued his music career full-time. During Joey and Lynne’s time with Grayson, they talk country and southern rock music genres, how the internet has affected the music industry, and the drastically different experience of Grayson’s Saturday night gigs at the bar and then leading worship the next morning. An American Idol contestant in 2019, Grayson shares his story of being on the show, including a significant memory of getting props from Lionel Richie. And, what would a Brandon Lake/Grayson Little tour look like? Grayson pitches the idea of touring with his long-time friend, and Joey, Lynne, and Grayson discuss the topic of compromising the artistry by “making it big.”
At the top of the episode, Joey, Lynne, and Amy talk about movies, but then go deep, all of them sharing what has sustained their faith and if any encounters with the Spirit of God helped them stand firm.
104 - Radical, Christian Love II (w/ John Mark McMillan)
25 Jun 2024
01:08:44
We continue our conversation on radical, Christian love by talking with musician and song-writer, John Mark McMillan. Known for songs like, “How He Loves,” John Mark McMillan shares his thoughts on the important topic of how Christians should represent Christ’s love in the Church. We’ll discuss the challenge of connecting deeply with others who see the world differently and ask tough questions like: Are Christians losing sight of the radical love Jesus calls us to? Does cancel-culture have a place within Jesus' church? Should a Christian strive to have a soft heart toward every single person? These questions and more with John Mark McMillan.
At top of the episode, three students from Seacoast’s Southeastern University—all Generation Z—discuss culture, technology, and the "love topic" at hand.
103 - Radical, Christian Love (w/ Pastor Kristin Mockler Young)
18 Jun 2024
01:03:21
Connecting deeply with others who see the world differently seems like a challenge these days. Even inside the Church, it can appear that Christians are losing sight of the radical love Jesus calls us to. Pastor Kristin Mockler Young from Mosaic Church (Charlotte, NC) shares her thoughts on this important topic. Does cancel culture have a place within Jesus' church? Should a Christian strive to have a soft heart toward every single person? These questions and more with Pastor Kristin.
At the top of the episode, three students from Seacoast’s Southeastern University Campus—all Generation Z—discuss culture, technology, and the "love topic" at hand.
102 - Mike Cosper (host/producer of Rise and Fall of Mars Hill Podcast, Christianity Today)
11 Jun 2024
00:57:31
Mike Cosper of Christianity Today has recently released a book, Land of My Sojourn: The Landscape of a Faith Lost and Found, which focuses on his painful experience of leaving local church ministry and the grace that restored his faith. The book stems from Mike’s experience with church hurt and his doubts about the goodness of the Church. Through it all, Mike has found a sense of peace and has learned a valuable life lesson–one he is still learning from.
Today, Mike talks about his book, reflects on scriptural testimonies, and answers questions about church culture. He also shares his thoughts on his podcast series that exposes the downfall of a church leader, and where he currently stands on matters of faith and life.
101 - 90s Technology, Virtual A.I. Girlfriends, Blockbuster Video and Guns
04 Jun 2024
01:00:52
From dial-up internet to the phrase, "Be Kind, Please Rewind," Josh Walters, Lynne Stroy, and Joey Svendsen explore the advancement in technology through the life experiences of their co-worker Ciarrah Lindsay, who is a good 20 years younger. Their conversation provides noteworthy insight on how far we've come. The four also dive into a variety of topics including cancel culture, the future of technology, guns, and movie subtitles. A little bit of everything and a lot of laughs on this one.
116 - The Instagram Hip-Hop Free-styling Sensation, Ray Wimley
17 Sep 2024
01:22:06
Ray Wimley considers himself a family man. He's a proud father, happy husband, one after the deeper things of life, and he’s driven to spread love to his fellowman. In the last few years, Ray, a hip-hop artist, has taken to Instagram, posting videos of himself free-style rapping in public spheres. His rhymes incorporate people's actions, attire, and anything that comes to his brilliant mind, leaving hip-hop fans marveling and the masses smiling.
Ray and host Joey Svendsen talk about Ray's upbringing, laugh, and lament about the pleasures and heaviness of being a dad. Joey also probes for the framework and mechanics of Ray's gift of rapping and plays some highlights while Ray gives us the scoop on some of his tactics.
At the top of the episode, Pastors Josh Surratt and Josh Walters sit with Lynne to talk internal leadership and accountability structures at Seacoast, what's behind Lynne's intimidating “stone-cold face,” and they remember a trivial concern from back in the day when Joey pushed back hard against Josh Walters.
Pastor Geoff Surratt, Greg's younger brother, shouldered a great deal of responsibilities during his 20 years as a Seacoast pastor. During this time, he mentored Joey, a very young and inexperienced pastor, who now hosts and produces the podcast. Joey reflects on the lessons he's learned from Geoff and admits he’s still a bit intimidated by him. They share stories of overcoming challenges and Joey also talks to Geoff about working with his brother, his contributions on innovating the multisite approach to church-planting, and his transition to other ministry opportunities after leaving Seacoast.
At the top of the episode, Lynne, Amy, Jack and Joey reflect on the podcast, including some memorable moments, favorite episodes, and the dynamics of podcasting together.
Pastor Chip Judd is back on the podcast to expand on his April 2024 Seacoast Church message, Boundaries: A Proven Path to Better Relationships and Less Stress. You can watch it here. During that message, he implored people to not take responsibility in areas of life in which authority hasn't been given. He gave clear and emphatic instructions on boundaries for adult children with living parents. But, some of these words caught attention on social media and received many negative comments about his words. In this episode, Chip, alongside Joey, and Pastor Greg Surratt respond to the backlash and clarify the meaning behind his words.
98 - Gifted Pastor and Counselor Faces His Own Struggle w/ Anxiety and Panic Disorder
14 May 2024
00:47:58
[Here's a list of every past podcast episode, dealing with mental health]
Pastor and Counselor, Chip Judd has helped thousands of people work through life’s challenges, including many Seacoast staff members. With over 40 years of professional experience, he works to instill a new and healthy view of God, while teaching good mental health practices in the process.
But, over ten years ago, during a successful and busy season of life, Chip personally drifted from the healthy practices he taught others and paid a huge price, finding himself in a severe bout with anxiety and panic attacks. On this episode, Chip tells his story, shares what he learned during his struggles and recovery, and offers listeners free therapy and spiritual encouragement.
[discretion advised as this episode touches on the heavier topic of suicide]
Jack Hoey III, Lynne Stroy, Roy Jacques, and Joey Svendsen have a somber conversation about suicide, reflecting on personal losses at the hands of this tragedy, including the passing of Seacoast pastor, Darrin Patrick in May of 2020. The four also ponder theological implications of suicide and discuss the merits of the "selfish act label" that many people give to one who takes his or her life. Joey also fields questions from the other three about his experience with a mental health crisis in 2019, contemplating suicide some during that time. The four also have an imaginative discussion (thanks to Joey) on the suicide of the apostle, Judas Iscariot.
Here's a list of every past podcast episode, dealing with mental health.
Request an appointment at Seacoast Counseling Center by clicking HERE. National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: 988 Substance Abuse /Mental Health Services Admin Natl Helpline: (800) 622-4357
We have a YouTube Channel for videos of all episodes since Jan. 2024.
Also we have a Facebook Page for listeners to keep up with the latest news on "Things You Won't Hear on Sunday" Podcast.
[Here's a list of every past podcast episode, dealing with mental health]
From first grade through college, Seacoast family and staff member, Alexandra Hunt, battled eating disorders. She bravely recounts excessive exercising as a child, binge eating, and forcing herself to throw up in college. Well into adulthood, Alexandra realized that starving herself was not the answer. She is now focused on healing from a lifetime of low self-image and finding freedom in her nutrition and exercise routines.
Although it's not a struggle she considers to be completely in her past, Alexandra shares rich lessons she's acquired over the years including the importance of finding identity as a beloved child of the King and mindfully reshaping her relationship with health, food, and her body. She has learned that when one accepts God's love and takes captive dark thoughts (2 Corinthians 10:5), the lies will be exposed and rendered powerless. She teaches all of us to "boast all the more gladly in our weaknesses so that Christ's power may rest upon us” (2 Corinthians 12:9).
At the top of the episode, Joey, Lynne, Roy and Jack discuss "PC culture" and whether phrases like "you need a therapist" or "I'm so OCD" (said by a person without the disorder) are harmful or innocent.
After losing her husband in May 2020 to the ruthlessness of mental illness, Amie Patrick has journeyed through challenging circumstances and navigated through pain to arrive at growth and excitement for the future. On this episode, she shares personal areas in which she's stretched herself and how the struggle of "worry" looks different having gone through a tragedy. Amie also shares wisdom on the importance of "embodied faith," the unhealthy allure of social media, and some deeper spiritual insight that has given her peace and paved the way for future growth.
94 - New Marriage, Same Couple (Josh and Katie Walters)
16 Apr 2024
00:59:02
Over 15 years ago, Josh and Katie Walters arrived to Seacoast Church desperate for healing in their marriage after an extramarital affair pushed them to a breaking point. Navigating the pain together, they began experiencing the redemptive story that the Great Shepherd was already writing. Now, leaders at Seacoast Church, they have established a healthy marriage, and recently released their memoir, New Marriage, Same Couple: Don't Let Your Worst Days Be Your Last Days. In the book, Josh and Katie lay out the principles they learned in that difficult season, and in this episode, they share a snapshot of their story.
Seacoast staff member, Ann Meyer, never knew her biological parents. However, after submitting her DNA to trace her ancestry, she discovered family members in an unexpected way. Ann shares about her life growing up in a loving home with her adoptive parents, and the moment she realized that her lifelong questions about her family of origin would be answered. You will be moved and encouraged by this adoption reunion story of love, gratitude, and sacrifice.
At the top of the episode, Amy Worley, Lynne Stroy and Joey Svendsen talk about the evolution of pants, radical forgiveness, and people who take delight in the thought of hell for others to pay for their misdeeds.
92 - Three Christians, Three Divorces, the Church, God's Grace and Restoration
02 Apr 2024
01:08:09
Statistics show that half of all marriages end in divorce, including couples inside and outside the church. God hates divorce, but loves mankind; and makes us new creations. The Bible also says where sin abounds, grace abounds even more. Although theological implications of divorce are touched on a bit, the episode as a whole shares the heart of three people. All are a part of Seacoast Church who love the Lord, want to please their maker, have walked through the pain of divorces, have been restored by God, and have some important insight for the Church.
91 - The 100 Most Asked Questions about God and the Bible
26 Mar 2024
01:07:45
Shea Michael Houdmann is the founder and CEO of Got Questions Ministries. For more than two decades he and his team have been reading, reviewing, and/or answering hundreds of thousands of questions about God, the Bible, and Christianity. He has several degrees in the areas of biblical studies and theology and is currently pursuing a doctorate of ministry at Dallas Theological Seminary.
Gotquestions.org, where most of their work is carried out, is visited by 18 million visitors per month, meaning: a lot of people have questions. After 22 years of fielding questions about topics ranging from salvation, heaven, hell, Jesus and scripture, to suffering, sexuality, and race, Shea decided to compile these questions into a book, The 100 Most Asked Questions about God and the Bible (releasing in April).
Joey Svendsen and Jack Hoey Jr. find out a bit more about the organization, it's beginnings and how the team at "Got Questions" approach this serious undertaking of answering questions, many in which finite man simply cannot know for sure. The three talk belief, doubt, and discuss a few of these top 100 questions.
At the top of the episode, the host team continues some reflection on The Billy Graham Rule and talk the complexities of Jesus.
115 - After an Abortion: Finding Grace, Restoration and Community
10 Sep 2024
01:08:12
As Peyton Pickens was preparing for the Chosen Women’s Conference in 2023, she did not expect the freedom she would encounter or the rescue and redemption she was about to experience. Ten years prior, Peyton had an abortion and had struggled with that decision ever since. But, during the conference, The Holy Spirit convinced her to be prayed over by another woman, who then confessed to Peyton her own abortion earlier in life.
With host, Joey Svendsen, Peyton walks us through how her life unfolded, leading to an abortion, her life-changing transformation, and what she’s learned in the one year since Chosen.
At the top of the episode, Tomelex Copeland, Jack Hoey III, Abbie Love, and Joey Svendsen talk about Kareem Abdul Jabaar's work-life balance and whether the sacrifices to pursue greatness are worth making. They wrap things up by analyzing who's more likable—Lebron James or Michael Jordan.
In many evangelical circles, the practice of avoiding "alone time" with a member of the opposite sex can be common. The idea is to avoid the temptation to connect emotionally, or physically with another person outside of one’s own marriage. Evangelist, Billy Graham and his team lived by a set of rules to uphold integrity, and this one, nicknamed, “The Billy Graham Rule” is the topic of our discussion.
One of our guests, Pastor Chip Judd, has counseled countless married couples through affairs and divorces. He believes that the intimacy (not necessarily physical) found in one-on-one encounters opens the door to trouble and is not worth the risk.
But, Bea Wray and Charlotte Cox, both part of the Seacoast family, claim to be negatively impacted by this “rule." They argue that it puts males and females on unequal professional ground, with a disparity in males having more opportunities, especially in church ministry, where most pastors are men. They also believe that this rule doesn't get to the root of the issue and could even exasperate the problem it's setting out to solve.
89 - Comedy and Christian Culture (w/ Shama4realz)
12 Mar 2024
00:58:59
Comedian, Shama Mrema ("shama4realz") loves the church and enjoys making "church folks" laugh. His Instagram features comedy sketches about evangelical culture, and the comments show that many Christians share the same humor. But, is there a line one can cross, when making light of Christian culture? Can one take it too far? In this week’s episode, you’ll get to know a little about Shama's background, including his origins in Tanzania East Africa, his current dwelling in Greenville, South Carolina, and how he stumbled upon comedy. Joey and Shama discuss the Christian faith, comedy in general, and the various facets of how Shama brings the two together.
At the top of the episode, Roy, Lynne, and Tomelex have a conversation on the same topic of comedy, and also reflect on Roy and Lynne's trips to Africa, including Lynne's awareness of being perceived not by her common color with many Africans, but rather her status as an American.