The Second Career Pastor

Scott Bach-Hansen
  • 5.0 (2)
  • RELIGION & SPIRITUALITY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to The Second Career Pastor—a podcast where we explore the stories of those who have answered God’s call to ministry after a first career. Each week, we dive into the experiences, wisdom, and faith that shaped their journey from the workplace to their ministry setting.

  1. 3D AGO

    Rev. Julie Nitzsche

    From the fast-paced world of being a Nurse in the Cardiology unit at UVA Hospital to answering a call to ministry, my friend Rev. Julie Nitzsche has quite a story to tell. In this interview, Julie shares her background as a nurse, her call to ministry, and how her previous career allowed her to lean on those experiences in her role as a Pastor today. Currently serving as one of the Pastors at Aldersgate UMC in Charlottesville, Julie shares her career change, the importance of mentors, and connectional relationships in her role today.

    47 min

  2. FEB 10

    Rev. Brian Johnson

    In this interview, I have a chance to talk with my good friend and mentor, Rev. Brian Johnson. Brian is currently serving as the Senior Pastor at Williamsburg UMC. Brian also serves as the Dean of Licensing School for the VAUMC (a title he says is over-inflated), and is a great leader for those entering ministry.

    45 min

  3. FEB 3

    Rev. Cathy Abbott (Ret.)

    In this interview with Cathy Abbott, she shares her background working for Enron and all the things that came with it for her, both positive and negative. We also learn about her path to ministry and her unlikely choice as a District Superintendent at the time.

    1h 1m

  4. JAN 27

    Dean, Carla Works

    I had the pleasure of interviewing my former seminary Professor and Dean, Dr. Carla Works. In this time together, we learn about Dean Works’ path to where she is today and how some of those transitions were for her. We also talk about the landscape of Seminary Education and how Second Career Pastors can journey through various paths into ministry.

    49 min

  5. JAN 20

    Rev. Bert Cloud

    This interview is with my friend, Rev. Bert Cloud, who is serving as the Pastor at Sterling UMC in Sterling, VA. Before entering ministry, Bert worked as a School Psychologist for a number of years. He and his wife, Rev. Gina Anderson-Cloud entered Candler School of Theology together and started their journeys, and have served together and apart. We talk about his background, journey, and a behind-the-scenes look at the appointment process as a clergy couple.

    1h 4m

  6. JAN 13

    Dr. Phil Wingeier-Rayo

    I got the chance to interview one of my Seminary Professors, Dr. Phil Wingeier-Rayo who is now the Executive Director, Education at the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry. In this interview we explore his new book, John Wesley and the Origins of Methodist Missions. We discuss a connection for Second Career Pastors and much more!

    51 min

  7. JAN 6

    Rev. Dr. Jonathan Page

    In this special episode, I have the opportunity to connect with my good friend and mentor, Jonathan Page, who is the new Director of the Lewis Center for Church Leadership. Jonathan shares some of his background, transitioning from a position within the Virginia Annual Conference as the Director of Connectional Ministries of Connection and Innovation. We also talk about the importance of leading from the second chair for Associate Pastors, and the changing landscape of ministry, which includes Cooperative Ministry, Bi-Vocational Ministry, and how it will change over the next 5-10 years.

    57 min

  8. 12/30/2025

    Rev. Jessie Colwell

    Rev. Jessie Colwell has been in ministry for 15 years. She has served at small, mid-sized, and large churches. She is currently in her fifth year as the Director of Clergy Excellence for the Virginia Conference of the UMC. Jessie has authored one book, “Blessed Wrestling,” and co-authored another with Rev. Dr. Teresa Angle-Young, “Creation’s Call,” which came out this year. She is passionate about walking alongside clergy and supporting them on their journey in ministry.

    55 min
See All (27)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
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About

Welcome to The Second Career Pastor—a podcast where we explore the stories of those who have answered God’s call to ministry after a first career. Each week, we dive into the experiences, wisdom, and faith that shaped their journey from the workplace to their ministry setting.

Information

  • Creator
    Scott Bach-Hansen
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    27
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Scott Bach-Hansen
  • Show Website
    The Second Career Pastor