Don't Let The Dream Die

Aaron Coe

Don’t Let The Dream Die is a podcast where guests bring their dream, name what’s threatening it, and we figure out how to keep going. Founders and teachers. Artists and pastors. Parents, operators, everyday builders. Real stories. Real pressure—fear, funding, fatigue, closed doors, distraction, doubt. Each episode, we work through three simple questions: What’s the dream? What’s in the way? What’s the next faithful step? If the dream is worth it, it’s worth the work. Stand up. Take the next step. Don’t let the dream die.

Episodes

  1. May 13

    LIVE Podcast! Courtney Pray Duke Shares How To Find Hope When Your Whole Life Gets Shattered

    Welcome to a special LIVE episode of the Don’t Let The Dream Die Podcast with Courtney Pray Duke! Recorded Live at the Scholar & Scribe bookstore in Trilith, GA.  When the unthinkable happens, can your dream survive? Discover how hope, raw faith, and gritty perseverance can carve a path forward—even when everything falls apart. After losing her husband in a sudden accident, Courtney Pray Duke found herself in a world where her dreams felt shattered. In this episode, she shares the honest realities of walking through loss, wrestling with faith, and rebuilding a life—one small, stubborn step at a time. Aaron Coe and Courtney Pray Duke unpack what it means to trust, dream again, and let God restore what felt lost forever. This is a story about grief, healing, and learning to get up—over and over—no matter your age or your circumstances. Key Takeaways Discover how “God, I trust you” can become a lifeline, not just a phraseLearn why surviving deep loss is less about quick fixes—and more about faithful steps that someday add up to a new storyHow to ask God for new dreams when the old ones have diedWhy the secret isn’t a different set of circumstances but cultivating “Christ in me”Tactics for facing mundane, invisible battles—and why simply getting up can be a radical act of hopeThe real process of moving from devastation to restoration, one honest prayer at a timeSubscribe for more real stories of perseverance.Like, comment, and share your own journey below! #DontLetTheDreamDie #Perseverance #Faith #HopeAfterLoss #Grief #DreamAgain #Restoration #Podcast Timestamps 00:00 First live podcast—introducing Courtney Pray Duke02:10 The great Santa Claus wrapping debate03:27 Life before loss—building a dream together05:18 Remembering Andrew—faith, family, and calling06:31 The accident: a day everything changed08:14 “The pen felt crushed”—grieving the end of a dream09:54 Wrestling with faith amid devastation12:25 Immeasurably more: holding onto hope in the dark13:53 The “machete” days—choosing to put one foot forward15:45 Fighting through with faith: the daily battle17:25 A catalyst for healing—God bringing dry bones to life20:04 What trusting God actually looks like in hard moments22:01 Lessons from suffering: forging new strength and dreams24:47 Relearning hope—navigating guilt and restoration27:14 The secret isn’t circumstances, it’s Christ in you30:34 Living with eternity in mind—why our one life matters32:03 Receiving a new dream: birthing the book34:49 The meaning behind “And She Got Up”37:42 For those who feel their dream is buried—where to begin39:38 Final encouragement—why the dream isn’t over

    40 min
  2. Apr 30

    Letting Go of the Wrong Dream To Find Your True Calling | Davis Powell

    What holds you back from exchanging a well-planned path for a calling that truly fits? Discover what it’s like to release old dreams—and find the faith (and courage) to embrace what’s next. When Davis Powell stepped off the path to becoming a doctor and into the unknown, he didn’t just change careers—he changed his life. In this episode, Davis Powell, President & CEO of Seed Company, opens up about leaving a carefully mapped plan to follow a deeper sense of purpose, wrestling with comfort, community, and the weight of expectation. He shares how embracing guidance, letting go of people-pleasing, and tuning in to God’s peace led him to lead one of the world’s most ambitious Bible translation movements. The conversation gets real about calling, taking faithful risks, and redefining what true success looks like—even when it means letting a lifelong dream die, so something new can grow Key Takeaways Why sometimes sticking to “the plan” is the comfort zone you need to escapeHow to discern if your dream is truly yours—or just old expectationsThe pivotal role of wise advisors who ask hard questions and speak truthWhat it means to pursue hard things with peace, not just gritThe keys to leading boldly through ambiguity, especially when the stakes are highLessons from translating the Bible into thousands of languages—and why collaboration beats competition —Subscribe for more inspiring episodes.Like what you hear? Give it a thumbs up.Comment and share your own journey of risk, faith, or chasing a new dream. #calling #leadership #dreamchasing #Bibletranslation #faith #purpose #nonprofit #perseverance Timestamps 00:00 — Are you following a plan or a calling?01:17 — Davis Powell’s background and unexpected journey02:17 — Early dreams, clarity through discomfort04:03 — The shift from medical school to ministry05:48 — Letting a dream die for something better07:33 — On comfort, people-pleasing, and tough choices09:24 — The power of wise voices and real mentorship10:58 — Opening up to true community12:16 — Is “hard” the only sign you’re on the right path?13:05 — Recognizing grace and peace in challenges14:26 — When “hard” things feel easy—finding your fit15:14 — Connecting personal calling with Seed Company’s mission17:03 — Why God’s Word for every language matters18:45 — Inside Seed Company’s ambitious vision (and the “ASAP” goal)19:24 — Milestones, challenges, and technology’s role21:17 — The promise and pitfalls of AI in Bible translation23:36 — Crucible questions: what keeps leaders up at night24:45 — Bridging local capacity and taking real risks26:41 — Translation vs. engagement—what success really means28:46 — The gift and challenge of collaboration with Illuminations31:18 — Why abundance beats scarcity—organizational (and spiritual) lessons34:23 — Rapid-fire: Clemson Tigers, abundance, and not letting the dream die35:25 — Final reflections and next steps for listeners

    36 min
  3. Apr 15

    How Leaders Overcome Doubt and Find Their True Calling | Kristin Shuler

    When your calling gets hard—or even questioned—do you keep going? Explore the high cost and deep purpose of leading with conviction when the dream gets tested. Stepping into global leadership, Kristin Shuler shares the unexpected challenges, moments of self-doubt, and the spiritual resilience needed to serve faithfully. From navigating culture shock and spiritual attacks to orchestrating generational leadership transitions, this conversation unpacks what it takes to stay devoted to a dream that’s bigger than yourself. You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at how massive visions come to life, why collaboration gets messy (and matters), and how to anchor yourself when obstacles threaten to derail you. Key Takeaways Discover how Kristin Shuler found her calling at 12—and what it feels like when your dream faces real-life confrontation and doubt.Concrete family strategies for balancing high-impact leadership, motherhood, and Great Commission priorities.How humble, intentional leadership transitions prevent vacuums and set organizations up for lasting impact.The nitty-gritty of collaborating and letting go of “our way” for a Kingdom vision—why it’s so hard but so necessary.Practical encouragement for any leader in a tough season: return to your why, clarify your priorities, and step out in obedience even when it’s costly.Subscribe for more honest stories from builders, leaders, and dreamers.Like this episode? Drop a comment below—what helps you keep going when your dream is tested?#Leadership #Dreams #Faith #Mission #WomenInLeadership #Unity #Podcast #DontLetTheDreamDie Timestamps 00:00 — Hearing God’s call and the cost of obedience00:50 — Welcome and intro to Kristin Shuler01:32 — The Santa gifts debate: wrapped or unwrapped?03:01 — [Speaker B] frames the scale of Kristin's leadership and vision04:06 — Early influences: childhood, church, and the spark of a missions call05:46 — Mission heroes and learning radical obedience07:41 — How Kristin found her place at East West09:37 — When the dream gets tested: doubt and cultural confrontation12:25 — Balancing executive leadership, motherhood, and priorities15:27 — The cost and challenge of stepping into President role17:23 — Navigating gender in international leadership19:16 — Generational leadership transitions: intentionality and humility24:11 — What problem is East West really tackling?26:06 — Equipping multipliers & the power of collaboration28:24 — Hard lessons in Kingdom-minded partnership31:08 — Methodology friction: why simple alignment isn’t so simple34:06 — The deeper value and cost of unity36:04 — Kristin’s advice for leaders about not letting the dream die37:11 — Wrap-up and closing thanks

    38 min
  4. Apr 1

    The Real Reason Perseverance Wins in Seasons of Uncertainty

    What happens when your calling gets tested? Explore how faith, grit, and clarity can rebuild what feels lost. When NewSpring Church faced a turning point, Brad Cooper had a decision: stay and persevere, or walk away. In this honest conversation with Aaron Coe, Brad Cooper shares his journey through upheaval—the hard questions, the debt, and the daily choices not to give up. This episode isn’t just for pastors—it’s for anyone wondering whether to keep fighting for the dream that matters. Hear how conviction, unity, and practical faith can transform crisis into a foundation for fresh vision. Key Takeaways: Why staying when it’s hard can shape your soul and your impact—no matter how uncertain tomorrow feelsThe role of “just making the next right decision”—instead of dramatic overcorrection—during crisis and changeHow NewSpring tackled huge church debt by moving “at the speed of cash flow”What “always reforming” means for building something solid and future-proofThe power of unity: why influence without notoriety and locking arms beyond denominations unleashes real impactWhy seeing your dream to the finish line takes daily faithfulness, not just grand passion Subscribe for more honest conversations on grit, vision, and keeping your dream alive.Like this episode? Drop a comment with your biggest takeaway.Hit Like and join the conversation.#DontLetTheDreamDie #Leadership #Faith #Resilience #Teamwork #Perseverance #ChurchLeadership #Vision Timestamps 00:00 Super serious question: Are Santa’s gifts wrapped or unwrapped?01:16 Clemson connections and family traditions02:06 Brad Cooper’s childhood, faith, and family business roots04:51 How parental influence shaped Brad Cooper’s approach to calling06:12 From athlete to pastor: pivotal moments that led to ministry08:15 The leadership transition at NewSpring: shock, pain, and first decisions10:58 Why resolve to stay can change everything12:14 Making the decision to persevere when quitting seems easier13:14 Redefining passion as the pain you’ll endure to see it through15:21 “Just keep doing the next right thing”—navigating uncertainty together16:01 Learning to reform and anchor in Scripture, not just trends18:01 The church’s financial reckoning and moving at the speed of cash flow21:09 Stepping from survival to stability and dreaming again23:20 Imagining the church’s future: everyday relationships and missional living26:55 Impact outside Sunday: vision for the kingdom in every sector29:33 Navigating polarization, diversity, and unity in a megachurch context31:18 Influence without notoriety—the model of humble impact33:08 Why post-denominational collaboration is essential for real change35:10 Future orientation: picking a fixed point for purpose36:18 The new opportunities for churches outside denominational walls38:07 Walls, partnerships, and why the work is too big for narrow boundaries39:19 What if I hadn’t stayed? The cost of giving up, and honoring daily faithfulness41:48 Fourth-quarter finishers and what it means to end well42:35 Final encouragement: legacy, perseverance, and the fruit that comes from staying in the game43:28 How you don’t let the dream die: God gets the glory, you get the joy, the world gets the good43:41 Closing remarks and episode wrap

    44 min
  5. Mar 11

    From NFL Kicker to Uniting Bible Translators Worldwide

    When the dream is bigger than you, how do you keep going—especially when the cost gets personal? Journey through the story of Illuminations, where unity, sacrifice, and grace reshape a global mission. What does it take to unite dozens of organizations, overcome deep fragmentation, and shave a century off a world-changing timeline? In this episode, Aaron Coe sits down with former NFL kicker Todd Peterson, who helped lead a radical collaborative movement to translate the Bible into every language. They explore the hard-won battles behind partnership, the uncomfortable truth about finances in mission, and the real price paid—spiritually and relationally—by leaders who chose to work together. More than just a win for Bible translation, their conversation reveals how humility, generosity, and perseverance can spark acceleration where division once stalled progress. Key Takeaways:- How collaborative impact in Bible translation turned competing organizations into partners—and sped up global access by decades- Why tackling the financial side of mission work is essential for real progress—and how generosity multiplies results- The personal and spiritual costs paid by leaders who pursue unity, including the unseen battles and setbacks- Why robust cooperation isn’t just a logistical win, but a spiritual one: God commands blessing where there’s unity- Practical wisdom for anyone dreaming of collective efforts, from neighborhood projects to global movements Subscribe for more honest conversations and practical insights.Like if you found this helpful. Comment: What’s your biggest lesson about collaboration or generosity? #BibleTranslation #Leadership #Collaboration #Mission #Illuminations #Generosity #Faith #DontLetTheDreamDie Timestamps00:00 My story is a story of grace: Todd Peterson's pivotal college football moment00:17 “Not on our watch”—spiritual urgency and early resistance01:12 Introducing Todd Peterson: NFL years and mission-driven life01:59 Unmerited favor, stewardship, and entering Bible translation02:59 How passion for youth, sports, and leadership led to a focus on God’s word03:40 Bible translation’s timeline and the first collaboration spark04:33 Birth of Illuminations: solving fragmentation, embracing unity06:20 Painting the landscape: agencies, Bible societies, and the need for partnership07:33 Early choke points—data, copyright, and sausage making08:44 The AI challenge: agencies unite instead of competing09:56 Breaking down giver/receiver dynamics and spiritual arrogance11:14 Culture shift: unity, vision, and why “not on our watch” matters12:07 The YouVersion story—why digital distribution required unified effort12:54 Illuminations as precursor: unity catalyzes solutions13:38 Repository, access, and self-perpetuating good behavior15:12 Isaiah 60:3—the biblical heart behind Illuminations15:34 Solving the distribution issue and unlocking global reach16:26 Old habits, new tricks: value-driven change accelerates engagement18:19 What’s next: hurdles and opportunities for collaborative impact18:51 Collective impact essentials and fundraising breakthroughs20:21 Brave CEOs, shared donors, and “all boats rise”22:24 Empirical results: generosity transforms giving23:19 Why finances are the catalytic third leg of sustainable impact25:07 The gospel’s model for generosity—and breaking scarcity mindset27:40 Ministry leaders, business perspective, and trusting God for provision29:27 Positive reinforcement and winning behavior29:42 Honoring the personal cost of collaboration30:54 How far we’ve come: updated timeline and goal for 203332:16 What "eradicate Bible poverty" really means—impact metrics33:28 Aspirational targets, acceleration, and the AI advantage34:26 Quality, speed, and how Illuminations avoids “sloppy” translation35:01 Why this level of cooperation is unprecedented in missions history36:17 The real price: personal, spiritual, and emotional costs paid37:07 “Is it worth it?”—stories from CEOs and resource partners39:12 Stakes are high: spiritual warfare and obstacles39:54 Family adversity, enemy resistance, and staying the course41:40 Encouragement for those dreaming of working together42:22 Wisdom for aspiring collaborators: unity, humility, perseverance45:08 “Team together”—final reflections on why partnership wins45:23 Football predictions and the lighter side of perseverance47:02 Celebrating friendship, faithfulness, and the long journey

    48 min
  6. Feb 25

    How Big Dreams Survive When Politics Get In The Way

    What does it take to make a big dream a reality when compromise—and giving up—seems easier? Hear what really happens behind the scenes when passion, politics, and purpose collide. Former U.S. Senate Chief of Staff Todd Womack joins Aaron Coe for an honest conversation about driving major change from inside public service—and what he learned about seeing tough dreams through. From fighting modern slavery legislation to building coalitions against the odds, they unpack why “perfect” solutions rarely exist, where real progress is made, and how holding a big vision (without letting ego take over) can launch world-shifting change. If you’re wrestling to keep your own dream alive, this episode shows both the reality checks and the rewards along the way. Key Takeaways: Discover why the “perfect” dream is often impossible—but 80% can be better than none.See how deep conviction (and humble compromise) turn vision into progress, even through relentless setbacks.Learn why dreamers must balance core convictions with the willingness to adapt if they want to build coalitions.Find out how raising awareness, not just passing laws, can sometimes move the needle more than expected.Hear practical advice for anyone considering public service or advocacy—what it takes, where you can have impact, and why expertise matters.Get inspired to dream big, stand firm, and keep showing up—even when things get messy. ——— Follow for real stories, honest lessons, and field notes to keep your dream alive.Like and comment to share your story or questions—we want to hear what you’re building. #DreamBig #PublicService #Leadership #NeverGiveUp #ModernSlavery #PolicyChange #CoalitionBuilding #DontLetTheDreamDie Timestamps 00:00 — The tension of imperfect solutions and big dreams00:32 — Introducing Todd Womack & Aaron Coe’s long history01:15 — From childhood dreams to unexpected doors into public service03:30 — Saying yes to opportunity: The path from local to national politics04:52 — The real role of vision in transforming communities05:51 — How Passion City & IJM sparked a crusade against modern slavery07:11 — Moments of awakening: Realizing your own influence08:09 — Building unlikely alliances between faith, advocacy, and government09:09 — Unexpected obstacles: politics, abortion, and hard delays10:03 — Navigating social issues and pivoting for progress11:24 — Why widespread awareness can sometimes be the greatest win12:01 — Lessons from hard-fought legislation: what Todd Womack would do differently13:36 — The reality of compromise vs. perfection in public life14:53 — Crucible moments: when to let go of “pure” dreams to get results16:44 — Difference between the original dream and what actually gets done18:26 — How struggle and education built a movement, not just a law19:22 — Advice for holding tightly to conviction while staying flexible19:33 — Why dreaming BIG (and letting go of ego) attracts others20:51 — The powerful upside of compromise and coalition-building21:35 — Is true collaboration a thing of the past in politics?22:22 — How Congress has changed—and why relationships still matter23:23 — The lost arts of humility, humanity, and bipartisan negotiation24:50 — Life after DC: helping others’ dreams become reality26:44 — From multinationals to local projects: strategic advocacy in action28:14 — Todd Womack’s own dreams and what energizes him now29:51 — Finding purpose and impact at the edges of government30:14 — Should you go into public service? Honest encouragement31:53 — Becoming an expert, mastering your moment, making a difference32:21 — Closing encouragement: keep fighting for your dream

    33 min
  7. Feb 11

    The Real Reason Your Dream Isn’t Happening Yet

    What if you’re the biggest thing standing between you and your dream? This episode uncovers the tough truths—and surprising breakthroughs—of chasing your dream, even when no one gives you permission. Writer and storyteller Jason Dyba joins Aaron Coe to share his journey from self-doubt and “safe” choices to leaving security behind and making space for the creative work that matters most. Together, they dig into the unseen biases, invisible hurdles, and real-life sacrifices it takes to move from dreaming to doing—especially later in life. Discover why the easiest “yes” can steal the dream you actually want, and what it really looks like to show up when the stakes are high. If you’ve ever thought it’s too risky, too late, or too daunting, this conversation will help you clarify, name, and unblock your next step. Key Takeaways Why your biggest hurdle is often yourself—and what to do about itThe pain and payoff of saying “no” to good things for the sake of your real dreamHow self-limiting beliefs and cultural narratives quietly shape your expectationsThe power of “permission”—and why you must give it to yourselfPractical strategies for making consistent progress, not just waiting for inspirationWhy putting your “yes” on the calendar is the most honest commitment —Subscribe for more real, honest conversations that keep your dream alive.Like this episode if you need the reminder that it’s never too late.Drop a comment: What’s one “good lie” you’ve believed about your own dream? #Dreams #Creativity #ChasingYourDream #Inspiration #Storytelling #PersonalGrowth #OvercomingDoubt #DontLetTheDreamDie Timestamps 00:00 One of the biggest hurdles: Our own biases00:05 Waiting for permission to dream00:12 Yes vs. No: Pathways to possibilities00:19 The good lies we believe about our dreams00:56 Introducing Jason Dyba and shared projects02:34 Jason’s story: Family, work, and creative life03:21 Living what you once dreamed—and why it doesn’t always feel dreamy04:26 Why clarifying your dream is so challenging05:15 The self-limiting beliefs and hurdles in creative life06:26 Cultural influence: Not knowing any artists or dreamers growing up08:16 How influential mentors break your limits09:09 Waiting for someone else’s permission—and realizing you must give your own10:22 No epiphany, but small wins building confidence11:39 Naming the “meta-dream”—writing a lasting story12:00 Leaving safety behind: Navigating career shifts and dream pursuit14:27 The hardest decisions: Saying no to what’s good (and familiar)16:53 The practical transition: Freelancing, family, and risk18:58 Time as the currency of your dream20:18 The hardest trade-offs (family vs. focus)21:28 Seeing through the “good lies” we tell ourselves22:40 Choosing your best yes for a decade, not just a day23:12 Why saying “no” can unlock limitless potential24:00 The dangers of curiosity and impulsive yeses25:37 Progress: What showing up looks like, every day26:49 The real yes is on your calendar27:42 Encouragement for anyone with a “smaller” dream28:54 Don’t wait for permission or the “right” circumstances30:02 The value of accountability and tracking the journey31:00 Final thoughts: Show up, do the work, let the dream live

    32 min
  8. Jan 28

    How Radical Generosity Transformed This 200-Year-Old Organization

    How far would you go to give away your most valuable asset—just to fulfill your mission? This episode dives into the radical reshaping of a global organization, showing what it costs to chase a dream worth everything. When Geoff Morin stepped up as CEO of Biblica, the team faced declining revenue—and an even greater existential crisis: Were they truly reaching the people who most needed God’s Word? Instead of doubling down on business as usual, Geoff Morin, his board, and team took a leap—pivoting the whole ministry toward “radical generosity.” By opening licenses and giving away what had been their prime source of income, Biblica risked almost everything.  The result? Exponential impact, unmatched collaboration, and a personal journey of nighttime prayers and perseverance. If you’re leading or dreaming, this is the real-world story of pressing on when what’s at stake is bigger than any spreadsheet. Key Takeaways: Why “radical generosity” became the core strategy for Biblica—and what that changed across the organization.The deep link between open-handed mission and exponential reach, especially for first-time Bible engagement worldwide.What happens when you burn the ships: Relinquishing 85% of revenue to unlock mission acceleration.How open collaboration is reshaping the future of global ministry—and why going solo will soon look outdated.The personal cost of vision-driven change: late nights, faith-driven risks, and holding dreams loosely.Practical encouragement for leaders: Perseverance doesn’t mean having all the answers—it means refusing to let go of your calling. Subscribe for more conversations on perseverance, impact, and pushing dreams forward. Like if you appreciate honest stories of mission-driven leadership. Comment: Would you give away your organization’s main asset for the sake of your mission? #Leadership #Perseverance #BibleTranslation #RadicalGenerosity #Dreams #ChristianMinistry #Collaboration #Innovation Timestamps: 00:00 — The radical pivot: Biblica’s journey to generosity  01:06 — Meet Geoff Morin: From global marketing to Bible mission  03:03 — Biblica’s translation legacy, including the NIV  04:47 — Why Biblica changed everything for the sake of impact  06:26 — The 1809 vision: Radical beginnings, radical return  08:05 — Wrestling with mission in the 2020s  10:17 — Breaking the missional cul de sac: Letting go of IP revenue  13:21 — Open licensing and global reach: How it works  14:36 — The business risk and ‘giving it away for free’  15:17 — Mission growth: From 3x revenue to 10x engagement  18:23 — Experimentation and innovation in translation  19:12 — Measuring first-time engagement, not just numbers  21:13 — Exponential influence: Partner platforms and collective impact  22:02 — Illuminations, YouVersion, and sector-wide change  23:46 — Beyond translation: Mobilization and access for everyone  25:23 — The real cost: Perseverance, faith, and late-night prayer  28:05 — Dreaming forward: What’s next for Biblica and collective ministry  31:02 — Encouragement for leaders: Seek first the kingdom  32:05 — Closing remarks and future hopes

    32 min
  9. Jan 21

    How Faith Survives When Your Dream Feels Impossible w/ Jennie Allen

    Ever stared down an impossible dream—and wondered if faith or grit would be enough to make it real? See what it truly takes when the calling is bigger than you. Jennie Allen joins Aaron Coe to share the behind-the-scenes story of Gather25, a global movement that brought millions of believers together—across continents and languages—with technology that didn’t exist when the dream began. From sleepless nights and an $18M fundraising cliffhanger to miraculous provision and honest questions about wisdom versus risk, this episode shines a light on both the pain and the beauty of building something unprecedented for a higher purpose. If you’ve ever had a vision that pushed the limits of reason, you’ll find hope, practical lessons, and unfiltered honesty in Jennie’s journey. Key TakeawaysWhy pioneering a “global gathering” demanded faith, grit, and new techThe real tension between faith and wisdom when money and risks pile upHow to navigate crucible moments—when your chips are on the tableFundraising miracles (including a last-minute $2.5M lifeline) Why gospel movements can drive cultural innovation ahead of everyone elseHow ordinary yeses (not just one giant leap) shape extraordinary impactGet involved Visit gather27.com to sign up for updates on the next global gathering Subscribe for more real stories of vision and perseverance Like and comment—what’s your biggest dream and what’s threatening it?  #DontLetTheDreamDie #JennieAllen #AaronCoe #Gather25 #FaithAndRisk #DreamBig #GlobalChurch #revival  Timestamps00:00 Convicting moment: “I will do anything You call me to” 00:05 Dreaming of a global gathering for 25 hours 00:11 Facing tech limits and spiritual fatigue 00:43 Starting the conversation: Jennie introduces her calling and background 01:37 Early surrender, blog inspiration, and faith journey begins 02:14 Ministry impact, harvest moments, and the “yes to Jesus” theme 02:57 Consequences of obedience: spiritual warfare and sleepless nights 04:24 The founding and growth of If Gathering (since 2014) 05:14 Breaking the internet with grassroots events and livestreams 06:30 Urgent dream: Gathering the global church in 25 hours 07:02 Pitching the vision before the tech existed 07:39 Live translation miracles—80+ languages via AI 08:18 Pioneering technology beyond the Olympics 09:48 Why gospel movements are often culture’s innovators 10:53 Mobilizing 2.5B Christians to reach 8B people 11:08 How Gather25 unfolded: continents, languages, and scale 12:54 Gathering stats, favorite moments, and international stories 13:25 7 million gathered—why it started as a “pilot” 15:03 Reflecting on cost, pain, and the decision to keep going 16:07 How fundraising stretched faith ($18M challenge) 17:06 The conviction to keep it “pure and simple,” no sponsors first year 18:11 Red Sea moments: trusting provision when hope ran thin 19:00 The $2.5M miracle, felt at the edge of exhaustion 20:00 Why pushing through is “scary as crap”—the honest story 20:28 When to pivot: tension between faith and wisdom 23:26 Difference between pioneering and sustaining ministry 24:55 Building wise, not naive: Board, partners, and contingency plans 26:16 Rallying volunteers and team: not holding dreams alone 26:26 Living with urgency—what’s driving Jennie now 29:54 Signs of awakening: campus revivals, global sending, digital connection 31:10 Why hope and optimism matter more than ever 32:24 How listeners can join Gather27 and shape the next chapter 33:40 The power of “group projects”—when everyone plays a part 34:08 Sent to reconcile: more than just a gathering 34:17 Wrapping up—the stories behind the numbers 35:13 Gratitude and inspiration—for anyone dreaming boldly

    36 min
  10. Jan 14

    How 3.7 Million Churches Could Finally Get a Trained Pastor

    Hard truths, bigger dreams: 3.7 million churches worldwide lack a trained pastor—can a new global alliance change the future? How do you solve one of Christianity’s biggest crises? Aaron Coe sits down with Mark Yarborough, President of Dallas Theological Seminary, to unpack the urgent need for accessible pastoral training across the planet. It’s a candid conversation about holy discontent, getting out of your comfort zone, and what’s at stake if we don’t reimagine theological education for everyone. Discover the story behind the Global Pastor Training Alliance and why collaboration—not competition—could be the key to helping millions. From Miami’s “one trained pastor” analogy to the radical idea of “give it away,” this episode is about the tension between simplicity and sophistication, and finding purpose in the crisis. Key Takeaways The global church faces a staggering crisis: millions of congregations lack trained leaders.Western churches are often unaware of the vast pastoral training gap—vision casting is essential.The Global Pastor Training Alliance unites nine ministries and business leaders to tackle this impossible problem together.Formal theological education remains vital but must be paired with accessible, non-formal training for real impact.Simple models for training don't mean lower standards; working “where people are” unlocks scale and effectiveness.Embracing collaboration and generosity transforms not only institutions but personal purpose Subscribe for more honest conversations. Like if you believe the global church deserves equipped leaders. Comment with: What’s one risk or “holy discontent” you’re wrestling with in your life or work? #pastortraining #globalchurch #theologicaleducation #dontletthedreamdie #leadership #mission #churchgrowth #futurecitynow Timestamps 00:00 — The global crisis: 3.7 million churches without trained pastors00:06 — How long would it take to reach every unreached place?00:17 — The Miami analogy: picturing the challenge00:23 — Personal wake-up call: 25 Bibles, global scarcity00:52 — Welcome + introducing Mark Yarborough01:34 — What drives Mark Yarborough? “The grace of God.”02:40 — Roots of calling: family, faith, scholarship04:29 — Holy discontent: when the reality hits05:25 — The “Perspectives” moment, global missions class06:37 — Weeping over the stats: 150 years to reach the world07:35 — Practical steps: from college to calling08:19 — Key influencer: Ramesh Richard and global connections10:17 — Dallas Seminary’s alignment, starting Global Ministries11:43 — What is the Global Pastor Training Alliance (GPTA)?13:55 — Why collaboration across ministries matters14:49 — The tension for traditional seminaries16:09 — Obstacles and vision casting: crisis awareness17:39 — The real numbers: West vs. Majority World pastors18:58 — Miami’s single-trained pastor—putting it in context19:52 — Anecdotal snapshot: the average global pastor20:16 — Training dilemmas: formal versus accessible education21:26 — Dallas Sem’s unique role and limitations23:52 — Why “give it away”? Making training free24:28 — Simpler models: not lower standards25:57 — “Work with people where they are”26:39 — The simplicity and depth of the gospel28:55 — Message to other formal institutions29:56 — What western seminaries must consider31:45 — Personal transformation through global engagement34:50 — Impact on Dallas Seminary & students35:21 — Changing the culture of ministry collaboration35:34 — What the future could look like if GPTA succeeds36:48 — 10-year vision for the church38:20 — What if simplicity trumps sophistication?40:45 — Keeping the focus on Christ41:10 — Encouragement for when your dream is dying43:31 — Wrapping up: the hope for a global shift

    45 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Don’t Let The Dream Die is a podcast where guests bring their dream, name what’s threatening it, and we figure out how to keep going. Founders and teachers. Artists and pastors. Parents, operators, everyday builders. Real stories. Real pressure—fear, funding, fatigue, closed doors, distraction, doubt. Each episode, we work through three simple questions: What’s the dream? What’s in the way? What’s the next faithful step? If the dream is worth it, it’s worth the work. Stand up. Take the next step. Don’t let the dream die.

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