Brave Men Podcast Paul Louis Cole

True identity is not found on a resume or LinkedIn profile … it’s found in your story. But what has shaped your story? Join me for a fascinating exploration of identity as we celebrate the launch of my new book, "Identity: Finding the Real You and Why It Matters." This episode is a deep dive into how the narratives we believe about ourselves influence our decisions and behaviors.

I share actionable steps like reading the Bible and engaging with a supportive community to help you live boldly and courageously in Christ. We hit some of the unique 40 days of affirmations designed to boost faith and self-discipline that are in the book Identity.

We hit a crucial issue many men face: the link between identity and self-worth. Too often, our self-worth becomes entangled with our professions, leaving many feeling trapped in roles they never consciously chose. By examining biblical stories like that of Samuel and David, we illustrate the importance of rooting our identity in being followers of Jesus Christ rather than in mere professional achievements. This episode sheds light on the heart's role in shaping our actions and sense of self-worth, urging you to align more deeply with God's spirit.

Brave Men is a production of the Christian Men’s Network. A global producer of tools and resources for discipling men and families. The host is Paul Louis Cole who you can follow on socials at @paullouiscole. 

 

(00:14) Identity and Brave Men Podcast Launch(06:39) Identity and Self-Worth in Men(21:28) Favor Always Attracts a Fight(30:18) Identity and Spiritual Warfare

The Brave Men podcasts highlight men who are leaders because they’re honest, strong, vulnerable and filled with wisdom. But what can we learn from boxing? Here’s your answer. Fred Ichniowski is a leading business consultant and boxing commentator. And he’s also a dad … 

When Fred Ichniowski’s eight-year-old son asked him a profound question about life, it sparked a conversation that transcended simple fatherhood advice. In this enlightening episode, Fred, a seasoned business consultant and boxing commentator, joins us to share his unique insights on the powerful distinction between mentoring and coaching, and the impactful moments that have defined his career. 

Here’s wisdom and strength. Listen as we delve into Fred’s heartfelt stories, from his childhood connection with his father through boxing to his transformative journey in leadership and personal growth. Fred hits us with a memorable acronym about grace, influence, and leadership qualities that transcend titles—Humility, Vulnerability, Accountability, and Courage (HVAC). 

What’s the difference between coaching and mentoring? Fred has a great answer. Whether through mentoring, coaching, listening, or leading by example, this episode offers practical tools and inspirational stories to foster personal growth and effective leadership.

Brave Men is a production of the Christian Men’s Network and is hosted by the President of CMN, Paul Louis Cole. Follow the ministry of CMN around the world by following Paul on socials ( @paullouiscole ). For tools and resources for discipling men find what you need at CMN.men

(00:12) Boxing Commentary and Life Transformation(13:35) Life's Journey and Faith Transformation(28:37) Difference Between Coaching and Mentoring(38:56) Quick to Listen, Slow to Speak(47:19) Transformative Power of Grace and Influence(58:53) Leadership Through Humility and Courage(01:07:53) Global Men's Christian Network Movement

From our first day of ministry in the Middle East, we were struck by the vibrant faith of the underground church leaders, their stories a testament to the power of perseverance in the face of adversity. This episode pulls back the curtain on the remarkable expansion of Christianity in Iran, a land where faith comes at a high cost, following Jesus Christ a choice often made not just with your words, but possibly with your life.

Our special guest, David Yeghnazar from Elam Ministries, shares with us not just the history woven into his family's faith journey but also the broader narrative of Iran's church, rising like a phoenix from the ashes of the Islamic revolution. This will encourage you and also compel you to greater works - to get things done where we live, while our brothers in other nations stay the course for Christ. These stories of resilience and discipleship are fuel for our mission, reminding us that the true measure of a man's faith is not found in serenity, but in the crucible of trials.

David and Paul also talk about the new Christian Men’s Network thrust into Arabic nations. CMN is actively translating resources for discipling men into Farsi, Arabic, Russian, Ukrainian and other languages for the Middle East and Central Asian nations. 

Brave Men is a production of the Christian Men’s Network. A global resource center for tools to disciple men. Currently in 50 languages. You can find us at CMN.men  

https://www.elam.com/

@elamministries

@paullouiscole

(00:00) Suffering and Faith in Iran(04:09) Iranian Church's Growth Amid Persecution(16:57) Faithful Men Inspiring Global Impact(23:05) Expanding the Church in Iran(33:49) The Impact of the Gospel

Embarking on a spiritual quest often begins with a single step, a step that Steve Trevino (@pr.stevetrevino) has taken time and again, transforming not just his life but the lives of countless others through his dedication to discipleship. His journey from pastoring to uplifting pastors in the Middle East is a stirring testament to the profound impact one man can have. Our conversation with Steve unravels the tapestry of discipleship and mentorship, taking us beyond the pulpit and into the trenches where real growth and steadfast faith are nurtured through life's shared experiences. We're reminded that the path to spiritual maturity isn't just walked alone; it's a road built on the bonds of mentorship and community.

The transformative effect of service ripples through society like a stone cast into still waters, and this episode captures the essence of that impact. We recount the narrative of a simple church volunteer program that evolved into a movement, ensnaring the heart and spirit of an entire city. From individual acts of kindness to a collective force of change, we witness how volunteerism not only shapes the physical environment but also carves out spaces for personal growth and civic leadership. It's a powerful reminder that our humble contributions can indeed fan the flames of growth and inspire a legacy of service within our communities.

Journeying with us to the heart of global spiritual leadership, we examine how the gospel's message forges connections across cultures and continents. From the boardrooms of high-stakes business to the covert congregations of Iran's underground churches, the influence of servant leadership is unmistakable. We share insights into the burgeoning Christian movement in the Middle East, particularly in Egypt, where the seeds of faith are sprouting in the unlikeliest of places. Through stories of courage and conviction, this episode celebrates the leaders who are reshaping worlds, one conversation, one disciple at a time.

For more on Brave Men and our host @paullouiscole, make sure to follow us on socials. 

To donate to Christian Men’s Network, visit https://cmn.men/ - and make sure to follow all that God is doing through the ministry around the world @christianmensnetwork or on our youtube page https://www.youtube.com/@ChristianMensNetwork 

(00:00) Training Leaders in Men's Discipleship(16:57) City Volunteerism and Community Impact(23:08) Empowering Men to Make a Difference(34:30) Church Impact in the Middle East(40:03) Finding the Man of Peace(55:48) Building Discipleship Through Conversation

Here’s some hope in your leadership journey. This week, explore the intrinsic connection between joy and a deep-seated relationship with Jesus with my guest, great friend Michael Murphy and our guest host this episode, my son Brandon Cole. They discuss how joy can act as a spiritual barometer and the profound impact of authentic community within the church. 

With Mike's insights from his book "XLR8" and his extensive experience in coaching pastors, along with Brandon's fresh perspective from his years leading a local congregation, C3 Fort Worth, this conversation is a treasure trove of wisdom to deepen your faith and leadership skills.

Unpacking the complexities of ministry to men and the evolving narrative of masculinity in today's society they confront the barriers in our culture today. Obstacles that obscure our joy, like unresolved conflicts and internal insecurities. They hit the need for authenticity in cultivating true joy and the fruits of the spirit. 

In this fascinating convo, they tackle the pressing issues facing church leaders - from the challenges of pastoral mentorship to the pitfalls of focusing too heavily on church attendance and finances as a metric. They rebuild the metric of success shifting it towards intentional disciple-making and investing in people as the hallmark of a thriving ministry. This episode is an invitation to all who seek to balance leadership, personal growth, and community in their lives, reminding us of the constants amidst a world in flux: the Holy Spirit, the Word, the Church, and our shared mission.

Brave Men is a production of the Christian Men’s Network. A global men’s discipleship movement you can find the resources you need to disciple men at CMN.men

(0:00:00) - Finding Joy in Following Jesus

(0:05:30) - Men's Ministry and Legacy of Faithfulness

(0:15:29) - Evolving Masculinity and Joy in Christianity

(0:26:11) - Challenges and Revelations in Pastoral Work

(0:30:17) - Leadership, Disciple-Making, and Church Growth

(0:42:24) - Power of Positive Confession and Community

(0:52:23) - Navigating Church Leadership and Personal Growth

(0:59:05) - Generational Transition in Church Leadership

 

Unlock the transformative power of neuroscience-informed Christian counseling with licensed professional counselor and certified sex therapist, Josh Spurlock. Immerse your heart into a terrific conversation with our good friend Josh as we peel back layers of emotional and relational inhibitors. Dive with us into a profound discussion on the long-term effects of father wounds, the significance of intentional vulnerability, and the potential that lies within our God-given mechanisms for personal growth and deeper discipleship. What’s the harmony between current scientific research and our faith in Jesus? How does the power of the Holy Spirit transform our thinking?

We tackle the tough topics head-on, addressing the sensitive issue of pornography and its impact on relationships. With Josh's expertise, we examine the neurological dependencies it can create, comparative to substance abuse. We discuss strategies for confronting and healing from its effects by addressing underlying issues. The battle scars of life often linger beneath the surface, manifesting in ways that can challenge our relationships and personal well-being. As Josh and I candidly discuss the shadows cast by father wounds and the distortions created by pornography, we reveal a path forward—one punctuated by faith in Christ, vulnerability, intentional living, and the pursuit of deep, meaningful friendships.

Together, we navigate the delicate pathways of neuroplasticity, uncovering how our past, our pain, and our potential for healing are influenced by both our neurological makeup and our faith. This is about navigating life with grace, power and compassion. We discover it’s not just about us, but how we help others in the journey of life.

Brave Men podcast is a production of the Christian Men’s Network, a global men’s movement with coordinating offices in Peru, Indonesia, Uganda, Brazil, London and Texas. For resources to disciple your family or men in your church go to CMN.men

(00:00) Neuroscience-Informed Christian Counseling and Healing(10:09) Neuroplasticity and Biblical Counseling(19:48) Addressing Pornography's Impact on Men's Relationships(36:09) Building Meaningful Male Friendships in Community(43:59) Navigating Dysfunction and Finding Faith(48:11) Navigating Father Wounds and Healing(53:34) Healing Through Mentors and Relationships(01:00:42) Understanding Anger and Emotional Connection(01:17:29) Seeking Wisdom and Mentorship for Men