The Radical Middle

In this episode, Tommy and Lenmarie take a deep dive into the reasons why Christians, particularly those in leadership and institutional roles, often struggle with conflict. They explore how the reluctance to confront disagreements head-on has led to a widespread phenomenon known as "church hurt," where unresolved issues create rifts within congregations and communities. The hosts argue that this avoidance stems from a misconception that conflict is inherently negative or that peace is best maintained through silence and passivity. However, they counter this belief by highlighting how avoiding conflict can lead to festering wounds, hinder spiritual growth, and ultimately weaken the bonds within a faith community. Tommy and Lenmarie emphasize that engaging in healthy conflict is not just beneficial but essential for building trust, understanding, and deeper relationships within the church. They discuss how conflict, when approached with a spirit of humility and a desire for resolution, can lead to personal transformation and stronger communal ties. The conversation also touches on the cultural and biblical roots of conflict avoidance, exploring how certain traditions and interpretations have contributed to a reluctance to engage in difficult conversations. They challenge the notion that peace is the absence of conflict, instead presenting it as the result of courageous, honest, and loving dialogue. The hosts explore the impact of conflict avoidance on the broader mission of the church, arguing that when leaders shy away from addressing divisive issues, they miss opportunities for growth and change. They encourage church leaders to model a different approach, one that embraces conflict as a natural and necessary part of communal life. By fostering an environment where disagreements can be aired and resolved, they argue, the church can become a place of healing and unity, rather than division and hurt. This episode offers a compelling case for why healthy conflict should be embraced, not feared, in the pursuit of authentic Christian leadership. FREE Leadership Resources - https://library.uywi.org/ Support the show & Follow Us ✅ Instagram ✅ Twitter ✅ TikTok

In this episode of the Radical Middle Podcast, Tommy and Lenmarie dive deep into the complex and often contentious topic of masculinity, viewed through the lens of Christian faith. The discussion begins with a provocative question: If you were alone in a forest, would you feel safer with a man or a bear? Surprisingly, many choose the bear, a response that opens the door to a broader conversation about how masculinity is perceived today. This episode challenges listeners to confront the notion of toxic masculinity—how it has infiltrated both societal norms and church culture, distorting the true teachings of Christianity. Tommy and Lenmarie examine the unrealistic expectations placed on men within the church and how these pressures can lead to harmful behaviors and attitudes that are far from Christ-like. Rather than advocating for outdated or superficial ideas of strength, they emphasize that true masculinity should be rooted in humility, mutual respect, and leadership that reflects the character of Christ. The conversation addresses the critical need for men to embody these qualities, not just within the church walls, but in their daily lives, relationships, and communities. Through candid dialogue, shared perspectives, and thought-provoking insights, this episode invites all of us to rethink what it means to be a man in today’s world. It’s a call to reject toxic stereotypes and embrace a biblically grounded and socially responsible model of masculinity. Join us as we explore how to navigate the radical middle on this important issue, fostering a healthier, more balanced understanding of masculinity in the Christian faith. Support the show & Follow Us ✅ Instagram ✅ Twitter ✅ TikTok

In this compelling episode of the Radical Middle Podcast, hosts Tommy Nixon and Lenmarie Pascall engage in a thorough examination of a significant question facing the religious community today: Should megachurches continue in their current form? With a keen eye on the evolving landscape of modern faith, they highlight several critical issues that megachurches must address to remain relevant and effective. One of the primary concerns discussed is the overwhelming focus on numerical growth, which often leads to a dilution of faith and shallow spiritual experiences. Tommy and Lenmarie delve into how this emphasis on size can overshadow the true essence of faith, resulting in congregations that may be large in number but lacking in depth and connection. Another pressing issue is the pressure and burnout that pastors of megachurches frequently endure. The hosts explore how the demands of leading such large congregations can take a toll on spiritual leaders, affecting their well-being and effectiveness. They discuss potential solutions for mitigating these pressures, emphasizing the importance of sustainable leadership practices. Tommy and Lenmarie tackle the challenge of forming deep, meaningful relationships within the vast settings of megachurches. They explore how the sheer size of these congregations can hinder the development of genuine connections among members, which are essential for fostering a supportive and nurturing faith community. This episode is crucial for church leaders, members, and anyone interested in the future of faith communities. It provides valuable insights and practical advice for creating more authentic and impactful congregations. Tommy and Lenmarie’s thoughtful analysis encourages listeners to reflect on their own faith experiences and consider how they can contribute to positive change within their communities. We invite you to join us for this important discussion and encourage you to subscribe to our channel for more episodes that explore vital topics in modern faith and leadership. Your engagement and support help us continue to bring you content that matters. Support the show & Follow Us ✅ Instagram ✅ Twitter ✅ TikTok

In this episode of the Radical Middle podcast, hosts Tommy Nixon and Lenmarie Pascall take a deep dive into the concept of "justice fatigue." They explore the multifaceted challenges of staying actively engaged in social justice amidst the backdrop of overwhelming global crises. The conversation touches on the intense pressures faced by public advocates and the very real risks of burnout when justice efforts start to overshadow one's spiritual grounding. Tommy and Lenmarie candidly discuss the personal toll that continuous activism can take and emphasize the crucial need to integrate faith with activism. They offer insightful critiques of performative activism and the pitfalls of prioritizing social media presence over genuine, meaningful engagement. Throughout the episode, they advocate for a more sustainable approach to advocacy—one that champions personal well-being and authentic involvement in social causes. Join us as we navigate the complexities of staying true to our values in the face of constant demands for justice and equity. Access our FREE Leadership Resources - https://library.uywi.org/ Support the show & Follow Us ✅ Instagram ✅ Twitter ✅ TikTok

In this episode of the Radical Middle podcast, hosts Tommy Nixon and Lenmarie delve into the profound challenges of properly addressing grief, particularly within the church. They are joined by guest Angel Maldonado, who shares his personal journey through grief, from the loss of his father to his move to California. Maldonado sheds light on the often inadequate responses he encountered, especially within religious communities, and offers insights from his experiences. The conversation emphasizes the need for genuine empathy and robust support systems for those grieving. Maldonado critiques quick-fix approaches and advocates for deeper, more compassionate engagement with those suffering. He discusses the tension between understanding our identity as more than conquerors and being honest about the harsh realities of our world, underscoring why grieving is an essential process. Tommy and Lenmarie explore how faith leaders can better support their communities through times of loss. They highlight the importance of moving beyond superficial responses and developing meaningful, empathetic connections with those who are mourning. The episode offers valuable insights and practical advice for young faith leaders seeking to navigate the complexities of grief within their communities. This conversation is a vital listen for anyone looking to enhance their understanding of grief and improve their ability to support others through it. By addressing the often overlooked aspects of grief, this episode provides a comprehensive and compassionate approach to helping those who are suffering. Elevate Your Leadership FREE - https://library.uywi.org/ Support the show & Follow Us ✅ Instagram ✅ Twitter ✅ TikTok

In the latest episode of the Radical Middle Podcast, hosts Tommy Nixon and Lenmarie Pascall, along with Esteban Shedd from Streetlights, explore the transformative power of the Bible when it is made accessible through modern methods like hip-hop beats. They discuss the troublingly low engagement levels among Christians, which they attribute to digital distractions and a lack of spiritual hunger. This episode highlights the profound impact of listening to the Bible and encourages deeper spiritual practices through tools such as the Streetlights app, showcasing the Bible's potential to change lives. The Streetlights team joins us to discuss the importance of Biblical knowledge and the tension between how scripture is sometimes misused and the alarming reality that many Christians are unfamiliar with God's word. According to a 2021 Barna Group survey, 34% of US adults read the Bible at least once a week, while 50% read it less than twice a year, up from 2020 when 169 million adults used the Bible occasionally. However, a 2021 Statista survey found that 29% of respondents never read the Bible, highlighting a trend over four years showing that most Americans do not engage with it. Currently, only 10 percent of Americans report daily Bible reading, down from about 14 percent before the pandemic. As leaders, it is crucial to bridge this gap by integrating the Bible into our daily lives and making it accessible to others through innovative methods. This episode offers valuable insights and practical tools to help you lead with a deeper understanding and a stronger spiritual foundation. FREE Leadership Resources - https://library.uywi.org/ Support the show & Follow Us ✅ Instagram ✅ Twitter ✅ TikTok

In this episode of the "Radical Middle" podcast, hosts Tommy Nixon and Lenmarie Pascal delve into the evolving landscape of Church practices in the wake of the pandemic, focusing on innovative approaches tailored to young adult ministry. They advocate for transformative changes that prioritize authenticity, community engagement, and discipleship. The discussion highlights the urgency of shifting away from traditional institutional models towards dynamic, relationship-driven worship experiences that resonate with contemporary congregations. Tune in as they explore strategies to revitalize Church culture and better meet the needs of today's young adults. Watch Video Episode - https://youtu.be/8cFttzshOyw Access FREE Leadership Library - https://library.uywi.org/ Support the show & Follow Us ✅ Instagram ✅ Twitter ✅ TikTok

In this episode of the "Radical Middle" podcast, hosts Tommy Nixon and Lenmarie Pascal delve into critical questions facing young adult leaders in Christian ministry. They examine the nuanced differences in cultural, ethnic, and church contexts and how these factors influence authenticity in leadership. The discussion probes the challenge of discerning genuine authenticity amidst charismatic leadership, emphasizing the importance of character over mere charisma. Tommy and Lenmarie explore the culture of the church and the glorification of certain traits, urging listeners to reflect on what truly matters in ministry. They confront the reality of unrealistic expectations placed on churches and pastors, advocating for a shift towards genuine, transparent leadership. Central to the conversation is the theme of love and accountability. They question whether leaders can love others enough to speak honestly and whether communities can foster environments where truth and vulnerability are valued above all else. It’s for a paradigm shift within Christian leadership—one that prioritizes the development of character alongside charisma. They encourage young leaders to cultivate authenticity, accountability, and personal growth to navigate the complexities of ministry with integrity and sustainability. Support the show & Follow Us ✅ Instagram ✅ Twitter ✅ TikTok

In this episode of the "Radical Middle" podcast, hosts Tommy Nixon and Lenmarie Pascal welcome Alexander James, a poet, pastor, and author, to delve into his latest book, "Just Be Honest." Join the conversation as they explore the delicate balance between faith and conformity, particularly in urban settings. With a focus on integrating spirituality into everyday life, they encourage listeners to embrace authenticity and vulnerability. Prepare to challenge your perspective on living out faith genuinely and openly. Support the show & Follow Us ✅ Instagram ✅ Twitter ✅ TikTok

Join hosts Tommy Nixon, Vanessa, and Joseph Adam Cruz on The Radical Middle podcast as they delve into the complex interplay between faith and engagement with secular music and media. In this thought-provoking episode, they tackle the tension of maintaining one's beliefs and truths while navigating the landscape of inclusion and tolerance. Through candid conversation and insightful reflections, the hosts explore the nuances between acceptance and approval, urging listeners to discern wisely in their media choices. They delve into how these decisions not only impact individual spiritual and emotional well-being but also influence the broader community. Drawing from their expertise in youth and young adult ministry, the hosts emphasize the importance of fostering a mature, relational approach to faith. They advocate for mindfulness in media consumption, encouraging young Christians to navigate a balanced path that upholds their faith convictions while engaging thoughtfully with popular culture. Tune in to discover practical insights and empowering perspectives on maintaining faith integrity in a secular world, while prioritizing spiritual and emotional health. Support the show & Follow Us ✅ Instagram ✅ Twitter ✅ TikTok

In this episode of The Radical Middle podcast, hosts Tommy and Vanessa invite special guest Joseph Adam Cruz to explore the evolution of evangelism, discussing the changing tides of gospel outreach, acknowledging the fading effectiveness of traditional methods - championing a shift towards more personal, relational approaches that emphasize genuine connections over outdated tactics. Joseph Adam Cruz brings a unique perspective to the table, sharing how his passion for hip-hop has become an unexpected yet powerful tool for spreading the message of faith. Through his experiences, he highlights the importance of striking a balance between public expressions of belief and the deeper, more intimate connections we forge with others. This episode isn't just about identifying the challenges facing evangelism today; it's about embracing the opportunities for growth and innovation. By redefining what it means to evangelize in the modern world, we can create spaces where people encounter the transformative love of God in the midst of their everyday lives. Support the show & Follow Us ✅ Instagram ✅ Twitter ✅ TikTok

In this episode of the "Radical Middle" podcast, hosts Tommy Nixon and Vanessa Cruz dive into the fascinating realm of truth as perceived by today's young leaders. They highlight an intriguing shift that's been happening since around 2016—a move towards a more nuanced understanding of truth, one that's less black and white and more about shades of gray. This shift emphasizes flexibility and acknowledges the existence of partial truths. Tommy and Vaness stress the importance of real-life evidence and personal stories in uncovering truth, particularly within the context of Christian beliefs. They argue that it's not just about what you're told but also about what you've experienced and seen for yourself. The conversation delves into the struggles that many young leaders face when it comes to expressing their beliefs openly. There's this constant tug-of-war between staying true to oneself and conforming to societal norms. The fear of being ostracized or labeled as different often holds them back from speaking up. Amidst these challenges, there's also a call for authenticity and humility in leadership. Tommy and Vanessa advocate for leaders to be genuine and open-minded, willing to listen and learn from the perspectives of younger generations. They highlight the transformative power of personal experiences, arguing that they often have a more profound impact on shaping faith than simply memorizing facts or doctrines. Support the show & Follow Us ✅ Instagram ✅ Twitter ✅ TikTok

Welcome to The Radical Middle - In this episode, we tackle the crucial issue of toxicity within church organizations. Join us as Len, a seasoned leadership development expert, joins forces with Tommy - together sharing invaluable insights gleaned from their diverse experiences. We will be discussing the following: How do you discern the toxicity levels in your church environment? How do you identify red flags, such as unhealthy power dynamics and a lack of transparency? Moreover, what are the actionable steps for effecting positive change within your organization, equipping you to foster a healthier ministry culture. And what if the toxicity becomes too overwhelming? Len addresses the difficult decision of when it's appropriate to consider moving on, emphasizing the importance of maintaining integrity in ministry. Whether you're striving to navigate toxicity or cultivate a culture of authenticity and growth, The Radical Middle provides the guidance and encouragement you need in today's church landscape. Tune in to gain insights on fostering positive change and navigating the complexities of ministry with grace and wisdom. Support the show & Follow Us ✅ Instagram ✅ Twitter ✅ TikTok

In urban settings, we often find ourselves caught between two worlds: the raw authenticity of our surroundings and the call to live lives that reflect God's holiness. It's a tension we can't ignore. We're faced with the challenge of staying relevant to our community while also striving to live lives that honor God. How do we reconcile the ratchetness, that is often tied to certain elements of urban culture, with the righteousness we're called to embody? It's about confronting the hypocrisy head-on. We can't ignore the realities of urban life, but we also can't use them as excuses to stray from our commitment to holiness. How do we strike that balance between being authentic and being holy? It's a question we need to wrestle with as we navigate the beautiful complexities of urban culture and our faith. Support the show & Follow Us ✅ Instagram ✅ Twitter ✅ TikTok

Let's talk about something that can cause a lot of division in Christian circles – the whole idea of using violence to make things right. Take a look at what's happening in Israel and Palestine – it's a hot topic, right? One side fiercely believes Israel has the right to do whatever they need to to “handle” Palestine… Others vehemently defend the people of Palestine and their right to not only exist, but thrive! It is a wild scenario where two groups of people, both professing to love Jesus, do not agree - with one side embracing the “by any means necessary” mindset. But this scenario isn’t new… Take a look at the Bible: How do we make sense of all the violence written in its pages? You've got the Old Testament with all its battles and stuff, and then the New Testament comes along preaching love and peace. It's a bit of a head-scratcher, isn't it? What about violence in our own neighborhoods? Ever heard someone say, "Try Jesus, don't try me"? How do we handle conflicts and tough situations without resorting to fists or worse? Let's dive into this together and see if we can find some answers. In this episode, we unpack the myths and realities of violence in Christian spaces. Support the show & Follow Us ✅ Instagram ✅ Twitter ✅ TikTok

How far should one go when it comes to showing honor to leaders? When does it cross the line into cringe-worthy territory, or worse, into a sinful or outright wrong practice? And who bears responsibility in this dynamic—the leaders who manipulate and demand honor, or the individuals who freely offer it, sometimes at their own expense? In this discussion, we confront the tension that arises in this complex issue. It's evident that leaders are often surrounded by YES people who believe the leader can do no wrong, a phenomenon the world observes. We delve into the underlying reasons behind this leader worship, exploring why people sometimes fall victim to it. Additionally, we provide insights into how individuals can avoid becoming leaders who demand unwarranted worship from their followers. Furthermore, we explore the concept of the Radical Middle in this context, emphasizing the importance of striking a balance between being a leader and maintaining humility, without seeking excessive attention. Join us as we navigate the intricate dynamics of honoring leaders, seeking a path that promotes genuine respect while avoiding the pitfalls of undue adulation. Support the show & Follow Us ✅ Instagram ✅ Twitter ✅ TikTok

Unless you've experienced working or volunteering in an understaffed, under-resourced, or poorly-led organization, you may not fully grasp the challenges it entails. It can be a daunting prospect, and sometimes, downright frustrating! In this episode, we step back to examine the competitive landscape of Christmas productions across various ministries and organizations. These entities often impose higher demands for bigger, better, and more extravagant productions on their already tired volunteers. It begs the question: Why do we consistently push the envelope in this manner? Is it so challenging to find contentment in simplicity? Can we, for the sake of our people, consider reevaluating the traditional Christmas production? These are some of the questions we aim to address. Furthermore, we explore the concept of the Radical Middle as a potential solution to this issue—a middle ground that allows us to honor the essence of Christmas while prioritizing the well-being of those involved. Join us as we delve into these important questions and more in this episode of The Radical Middle Podcast. Support the show & Follow Us ✅ Instagram ✅ Twitter ✅ TikTok

The concepts of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) can elicit various reactions, from enthusiasm to resistance, based on individual ideologies. In this episode, we explore a nuanced perspective on DEI, emphasizing that it is not the ultimate goal but rather the vehicle that can lead us to fulfill the will of God. We delve into the tensions that exist within both sides of the DEI debate and introduce the concept of the Radical Middle, offering a holistic approach to this important topic. Join us as we navigate the complexities of DEI, seeking a path that aligns with our shared values and purpose. Support the show & Follow Us ✅ Instagram ✅ Twitter ✅ TikTok

Have you ever pondered why organizations with questionable leadership or unethical practices manage to maintain their grip on power? It can be baffling to witness influential organizations thrive while others struggle to access even basic resources. In this discussion, we delve into the critical role of power dynamics in various aspects of our lives. We examine the tactics employed by organizations to preserve themselves and their influence, shedding light on how they prioritize maintaining existing power structures and cultures. The consequences of these actions have resulted in the emergence of monolithic organizations that often lack diversity, perpetuating the status quo. Join us as we explore the intricacies of organizational power dynamics, their self-preservation strategies, and their impact on the broader landscape. Support the show & Follow Us ✅ Instagram ✅ Twitter ✅ TikTok

The question of how to cast our votes is increasingly on the minds of young leaders today. Voting is often portrayed as our civic duty, a way to have our voices heard by those in power. However, in a world where politics has become intertwined with individual identity, it's challenging to strike a balance between participating in the electoral process and remaining true to our values. We find ourselves grappling with the fact that many candidates available to us may not align with the virtues of our faith. This raises questions about our role in a political system that sometimes seems flawed, and how we can avoid becoming mere pawns in the political game. In this complex landscape, we explore how Christians can engage in politics with integrity. We delve into the meaning of justice, our approach to laws and justice, the pursuit of truth, and the importance of maintaining a moral foundation. Ultimately, the question of whether to vote or not becomes a central theme in our discussion. Join us as we navigate these critical issues and seek to understand how to participate in the political process while upholding our Christian values. Support the show & Follow Us ✅ Instagram ✅ Twitter ✅ TikTok