Join us for a compelling conversation with Annie Horner, a counseling associate who reveals how understanding our personal stories can transform leadership and relationships. Annie shares powerful insights on breaking free from isolation, bridging the gap between biblical wisdom and mental health, and finding authentic connection in a performance-driven world. Discover practical strategies for shrinking the "integrity gap" between what we preach and how we live, as Annie unpacks how our past experiences shape not only our leadership styles but even our view of God. Whether you're carrying leadership responsibilities or simply seeking deeper connections, this episode offers a refreshing path toward wholeness through story work.

In this vulnerable and heartfelt conversation, Peter Voorhees sits down with Father Rob Steinbach, who shares his journey from Acts 29 church planter to founding Shalom Anglican in Silverdale, WA. Father Rob opens up about his spiritual dissatisfaction that led to more contemplative practices, his disconnect with personality-driven ministry, and the challenging process of following God's call into Anglicanism - offering valuable insights for anyone navigating transitions in their faith journey.

In this episode, hosts Peter, Josh, and Malissa discuss their conversation with Dr. Chan Hellman about the science of hope. They explore how hope requires goals, agency, and willpower—elements that can be shared within community. The hosts emphasize that the church is uniquely positioned to foster hope, especially for those in survival mode. They highlight that true hope isn't just believing things will improve, but actively participating in that improvement while supporting others. The conversation illustrates how intergenerational relationships allow people to "borrow hope" from others when they have none of their own, reinforcing the podcast's theme that while our journeys are individual, we walk paths that others have traveled before gleaning knowledge and hope from their experiences.

In this powerful episode, host Peter Voorhees sits down with Dr. Chan Hellman, Director of The Hope Research Center at the University of Oklahoma, to explore the transformative science of hope. Dr. Hellman shares how hope functions not merely as a feeling but as a powerful framework that can be taught and cultivated, especially in the face of trauma and adversity. Discover the difference between wishful thinking and the active process of hope, learn how communities can become "hope-centered," and understand why hope might be one of the strongest predictors of well-being. Whether you're navigating personal challenges or working to build resilient communities, this conversation offers practical insights on how hope can light not just the end of the tunnel, but the journey itself.

In this episode of "Old Paths New Steps," hosts Peter Voorhees, Josh Lott, and Malissa Bertella explore the powerful concept of the wounded healer. The conversation examines how our personal wounds and struggles can become sources of ministry and healing for others when properly integrated into our stories. The hosts share personal experiences of using their own pain to connect with and help others, while discussing the delicate balance of vulnerability, boundaries, and wisdom in this process. Drawing from Henri Nouwen's influential work, they reflect on Jesus as the ultimate model of a wounded healer and how authentic vulnerability can transform both individuals and communities when approached with intention and care. This thought-provoking discussion invites listeners to see their scars not as something to hide, but as potential pathways to deeper healing and connection.

In this episode, hosts Peter, Josh, and Malissa discuss their conversation with theologian Dr. Jerry Sittser. They explore how monasteries historically served their communities rather than existing in isolation, examine the relationship between church and state, and discuss how the church's true power comes from the Holy Spirit rather than political influence. The hosts reflect on what renewal looks like today—emphasizing local community engagement over large-scale metrics—and highlight the importance of mentoring and empowering others. They conclude by connecting these themes to stewarding our experiences for others' benefit, much like the New Testament letters compiled wisdom to help believers flourish.

In this episode, hosts Peter and Malissa welcome distinguished theologian, scholar, and author Dr. Jerry Sittser to explore Christianity's resilience through history's darkest moments. Dr. Sittser shares how the Benedictine monastic movement emerged during societal collapse and natural disasters in the 6th century, quietly preserving knowledge and faith for future generations. Through historical examples and personal stories, he discusses how Christians can maintain faithful presence while stewarding power responsibly in today's divided world. Drawing from his books, including "Resilient Faith," Dr. Sittser offers hope and practical wisdom for navigating current cultural challenges by learning from the church's past.

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In this episode of Old Paths, New Steps, hosts Josh, Pete, and Melissa explore the concept of sacred spaces as safe places. They journey from the Garden of Eden through biblical history to modern churches, examining what makes a space truly sacred. The conversation delves into how vulnerability, accountability, and cherishing others are essential elements for creating healing environments where people can authentically encounter God. Through personal stories and theological insights, they discuss how the most beautiful aspect of any sacred space is the people within it. Discover how expanding our tables and creating genuine community reflects God's original design for Eden and points toward the ultimate feast in the new creation. Whether you've experienced church as a sanctuary or a source of pain, this episode offers hope for creating spaces where true healing can flourish.