The Hacka Podcast

234. Vito Di Giovanni & Benjamin Cashen – The Missing Mindset in Church Production 02.10.2026 37min

What does excellence in church production actually look like? Is it about better sound, better cameras, better lighting and more expensive gear, or is there something deeper behind great church production?In this episode, I sit down with Vito Di Giovanni of DiGiovanni Technologies and Benjamin Cashen of Cashen Creative for a conversation about church production, worship ministry, leadership, sound, video, media teams, mentorship and pursuing excellence in ministry.Vito and Ben have worked in production environments ranging from local churches to major conferences and arenas. But when we start talking about excellence, the conversation quickly moves beyond equipment.We discuss the difference between excellence and perfectionism, why production leaders need to develop people instead of simply filling positions, and how creating a culture of mentorship can strengthen your team and prevent everything from depending on one person.Vito and Ben also explain why your sound engineers, camera operators, lighting teams, ProPresenter operators and media volunteers shouldn't think of themselves simply as technicians—they are part of the worship team.One of the biggest ideas from this conversation is simple: before production is about technology, it is about people, worship and ministry.Extended show notes - https://hacka.org/2026/10/05/234-vito-digiovanni-benjamin-cashen/

233. Kent Elliott - Why Some Churches Grow and Others Stay Stuck 23.09.2026 1h 1min

What does it take to stay faithful in ministry for decades, and continue reaching new people in a rapidly changing world?In this episode, we are joined by Kent Elliott, pastor of Faith Tabernacle in Manchester, Connecticut, and founder of FaithWorks. Kent has served at the same church for 34 years, including 26 years as senior pastor, and shares lessons from decades of Apostolic ministry, church growth, leadership, evangelism and perseverance.We talk about Kent’s calling to ministry at 16, the importance of staying when ministry gets difficult, the disciplines that have sustained him, and the remarkable growth Faith Tabernacle has experienced in recent years.Kent also shares practical advice for pastors leading churches that feel stuck or stagnant. We discuss creating a church culture that genuinely expects guests, preparing for growth before it happens, involving new believers and understanding the pastor’s role in shaping church culture.Finally, we dive into digital evangelism and the story behind FaithWorks and Faith Funnels. Kent explains how churches can use digital marketing, social media advertising and intentional follow-up to reach people they might never encounter through traditional outreach.Kent’s challenge is simple: the message never changes, but methods do.Extended show notes -

232. Dr. Talmadge French – From Trinitarian Preacher to Oneness Theologian 08.09.2026 59min

Dr. Talmadge French joins The Hacka Podcast for an in-depth conversation about Oneness Pentecostal theology, the identity of Jesus Christ, biblical Greek, church history, Jesus Name baptism, and the worldwide growth of the Apostolic movement.Dr. French is an Apostolic pastor, author, biblical languages scholar, and theologian who has spent decades studying Greek, Hebrew, New Testament theology, and the history of Oneness Pentecostalism. But his story began in Trinitarian Pentecostalism. In this episode, he shares the journey that eventually convinced him to be baptized in the name of Jesus—and why his years of academic study have only strengthened his Apostolic convictions.We discuss what Dr. French believes is the strongest biblical case for the Oneness of God, how he understands John 1:1, what Greek can reveal that English translations sometimes obscure, and his perspective on the historical development of Trinitarian theology.Dr. French also shares fascinating findings from decades of researching the global Oneness movement. His original research identified hundreds of Jesus Name organizations and an estimated 15–20 million believers. Today, his ongoing research estimates that number could be around 40 million worldwide.We also discuss the need for greater unity among Oneness Pentecostals and hear the remarkable story of a Tibetan monk who embraced Acts 2:38 and went on to baptize thousands.Whether you're an Apostolic Pentecostal, pastor, Bible student, ministry leader, or simply interested in the biblical and historical discussion surrounding the Oneness of God and the Trinity, this is a conversation worth hearing.Extended show notes - https://hacka.org/2026/09/10/232-dr-talmadge-french-from-trinitarian-preacher-to-oneness-scholar/------------Oneness Teaching Session: Oregon District - https://youtu.be/ghAhnJgpuXY?si=Ruq2pSA7yFAoLXFx-----------Books - https://www.abebooks.com/book-search/author/french-talmadge/

CLIP: How to Raise Kids Who Actually Love God | Dr Tom Trimble 05.09.2026 8min

How do you raise kids who actually love God, love church, and develop a faith of their own?In this clip from The Hacka Podcast, Dr Tom Trimble shares practical Christian parenting advice from his experience raising three children while serving in ministry. We talk about raising Christian kids, balancing ministry and family, making church enjoyable, putting phones away, creating meaningful family memories, and teaching children how to hear the voice of God for themselves.Rather than simply creating rules for his children, Dr Trimble wanted to help them develop spiritual discernment and learn to listen to the Holy Ghost as they navigated life.📖 Dr Trimble is the pastor of Restoration Church in St. Charles, Missouri, and author of Digital Dominion.

CLIP: When God Says “No” to Your Prayer | Ryan Neer 24.08.2026 11min

What do you do when God says “no” to your prayer? In this clip from The Hacka Podcast, Ryan Neer shares powerful biblical wisdom about answered prayer, discerning the will of God, God’s timing, spiritual growth, ministry calling, and learning to trust God when the answer isn’t what you expected.Ryan explains that God answers prayer with yes, no, or not right now—and sometimes the “no” you receive today is simply an “underdeveloped now.” How we respond when God closes a door can determine whether we’re prepared when He eventually opens it.We also explore why Christians can remain stuck in seasons God has already ended, the difference between correction and rejection, and what Joseph’s story teaches us about spiritual gifts. Joseph had the gift early, but God had to mature how he used it. Our gifts aren't given for our own validation or elevation—they're given so we can serve and bless others.If you’re praying for direction, waiting on God, navigating a closed door, or trying to understand His will for your life, this conversation with Ryan Neer will encourage you to trust the process.

CLIP: Ric Gonzalez’s Powerful Testimony 17.08.2026 8min

In this powerful clip , Bishop Ric Gonzalez shares his remarkable testimony of growing up in gangs, dealing drugs, and having two contracts on his life before a single church service changed everything.Bro Gonzalez recounts the moment he walked into an Apostolic church, responded to God's presence, received the Holy Spirit, and discovered that Jesus had a completely different plan for his life. He also shares the unforgettable prayer that marked the beginning of his journey:"If You'll give me one shot, I'll serve You."This is a testimony of God's mercy, transforming power, and the life-changing reality of a genuine encounter with Jesus Christ.

CLIP: Why You Can't Stop Scrolling | Dr Tom Trimble 13.08.2026 4min

Why is it so hard to put your phone down?In this clip from The Hacka Podcast, Dr. Tom Trimble explains why endless scrolling isn't simply a lack of willpower. Social media platforms are designed to capture and keep your attention, making self-control one of the greatest spiritual challenges of our generation.Together, we discuss algorithms, dopamine loops, TikTok, the attention economy, and why Christians must intentionally take back control before technology begins shaping us more than Scripture.If you've ever caught yourself reaching for your phone without thinking, this conversation is for you.In this video:- Why social media is so addictive- The attention economy explained- How algorithms keep you scrolling- Why self-control is a spiritual discipline- Taking back control of your attention📖 Get Dr. Tom Trimble's book, Digital Dominion: https://a.co/d/081itC0w

231. Dan MacLeod – The Missing Ingredient for Revival 10.08.2026 52min

What if one of the greatest keys to revival isn’t another strategy, program, or method, but humility?Evangelist Dan MacLeod returns to The Hacka Podcast for a powerful and challenging conversation about the role humility plays in revival, ministry, leadership, and the life of every believer.Beginning with Jesus’ triumphal entry in Matthew 21, Dan traces a thread of humility through Scripture—from the borrowed donkey and garments laid before Jesus to the cleansing of the temple and the outpouring of the Holy Ghost at Pentecost. He challenges us to consider whether we can have the right actions while carrying the wrong attitude—and whether excellence without humility can become little more than human production.We also discuss pride in ministry, surrendering our reputation, social media and image culture, materialism within the Western church, selfish ambition, and why revival in the church must begin with revival in the individual.If we truly want God to move in our lives, families, churches, and cities, perhaps the question isn’t simply what more we need to do—but what we need to surrender.

CLIP: Is Baptism Really a Work? 03.08.2026 8min

Is baptism a work? It's one of the most common objections raised in conversations about salvation, but is it what the Bible actually teaches?In this clip, Simeon Costa explains why many Christians today view baptism differently than the early church, tracing the discussion back to the Reformation and unpacking what Paul and James actually meant when they spoke about "works."Together, we examine passages like Acts 2, Acts 10, Acts 22, and James 2 to answer an important question: Is baptism simply a symbolic act, or is it part of responding to God's grace through obedient faith?Whether you've wrestled with this topic before or are hearing these arguments for the first time, this conversation will challenge you to go back to Scripture and consider what the apostles actually taught.

CLIP: We Found Out We Were Having Triplets on the Mission Field | Aaron & Tiffany Anderson 31.07.2026 6min

What would you do if you found out you were having triplets while serving as missionaries on the other side of the world?In this clip from The Hacka Podcast, Aaron and Tiffany Anderson share the emotional moment they discovered they were expecting triplets while serving in São Paulo, Brazil. They talk honestly about fear, uncertainty, and the overwhelming responsibility they felt, while also sharing how God's grace carried them through one of the hardest seasons of their lives.If you're facing something that feels impossible, this conversation is a reminder that God's calling always comes with God's grace.

230. Raymond Woodward – His Greatest Leadership Lessons 28.07.2026 49min

What does it take to lead faithfully for a lifetime? In this special "Best Of" episode of The Hacka Podcast, I bring together some of the most impactful moments from my three conversations with Raymond Woodward, Bishop of CCC Fredericton, UPCI Superintendent of Canada, and one of the most respected Bible teachers in the Apostolic movement.Whether you're a pastor, preacher, Bible teacher, or simply passionate about God's Word, this episode is packed with practical wisdom that has been forged through decades of ministry. Bishop Woodward shares his advice for young leaders, his approach to sermon preparation, why the Old Testament is indispensable for New Testament believers, and how long-term leaders can guard their relationship with God, their family, and their own soul.If you're serious about growing as a leader and handling Scripture faithfully, this conversation will challenge, encourage, and equip you.In this episode you'll discover:- The biggest mistakes young ministers make- How to build a lifetime of spiritual disciplines- Raymond Woodward's complete sermon preparation process- Why every preacher should teach from the Old Testament- How to study Scripture more effectively- Protecting your family while leading others- The biblical importance of Sabbath and rest- Lessons every leader learns after decades in ministry- Why submission protects your future- The power of investing in the next generation

CLIP: Why Authentic Worship Changes Everything | David Jennings 25.07.2026 8min

What makes worship truly powerful?In this clip, David Jennings shares the deeply personal story of the first time he ever led worship—at his mother's funeral. What happened that day forever changed his understanding of worship, authenticity, and the power of lifting up Jesus.David explains why authentic worship is far more powerful than performance, why unity matters, and how God responds when His people genuinely exalt Him.💬 What does authentic worship mean to you? Share your thoughts in the comments!

CLIP: My Experience with the Gift of Discerning of Spirits | Ric Gonzalez 17.07.2026 12min

How does the gift of discerning of spirits actually operate?In this clip from The Hacka Podcast, Bishop Ric Gonzalez shares how God first began using him in the gift of discerning of spirits after a powerful encounter early in his ministry. He explains the four dimensions of this spiritual gift, the responsibility that comes with it, and why biblical discernment is about far more than identifying demonic activity.Bro Gonzalez also discusses the importance of discerning what is truly from God, why miracles alone are not enough, and how every spiritual experience must be grounded in biblical truth.Whether you're curious about the gifts of the Spirit or want to grow in spiritual discernment, this conversation will challenge you to pursue both truth and relationship with God.If this video encouraged you, be sure to like, subscribe, and share it with someone who would benefit from this teaching.

229. Ryan Neer - The Ministry Mindset Every Leader Needs 14.07.2026 1h

What does it take to faithfully follow the call of God through every season of ministry?-----------For extended show notes - https://hacka.org/2026/07/16/229-ryan-neer-the-ministry-mindset-every-leader-needs/-----------In this episode, we are joined by Ryan Neer, Lead Pastor of Gateway Pentecostal Church in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Ryan shares his remarkable testimony—from addiction, brokenness and losing his father at a young age to becoming an evangelist and now pastor. But this conversation goes far beyond his story.We discuss why "mantles fall on moving targets," how to discern when God is saying "go" and when He's saying "stop," why a "no" from God may simply be an underdeveloped "now," and how God often develops His greatest leaders through seasons of weakness rather than strength.If you're pursuing God's calling, wrestling with unanswered prayers, or trying to understand the season you're in, this conversation will encourage, challenge and equip you to trust God's process.In this episode:- Ryan Neer's powerful testimony of salvation and transformation- Why mantles fall on moving targets- How to know when God is changing your season- Why God's "no" isn't always permanent- Receiving correction without becoming discouraged- Developing your gifting with humility- Understanding the fivefold ministry- Why God chooses weakness over self-confidence- Finding purpose in life's limitations- Letting patience prepare you for God's "suddenly"

CLIP: What to Do When You Don't Know What You're Doing | Dr Janice Sjostrand 08.07.2026 4min

Have you ever found yourself thinking:"I have no idea what I'm doing."Whether you're raising children, navigating marriage, building a career, leading a ministry, or simply trying to make it through another season of life, you're not alone.In this powerful clip from Episode 223 of The Hacka Podcast, Dr Janice Sjostrand shares biblical wisdom for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the responsibilities of adulthood. Drawing from Isaiah 41:10, she reminds us that God never intended for us to carry life's burdens by ourselves.In this conversation, you'll discover:- Why feeling inadequate is more common than you think- God's promise to strengthen and help you- How to find direction when you're unsure what to do- Why comparing yourself to others is a losing game- The importance of seeking God before seeking everyone else's opinionIf you're facing uncertainty, anxiety, or a season that feels bigger than you, this message is for you.God isn't asking you to figure everything out on your own. He's asking you to follow Him.

CLIP: The Son of God vs. God the Son | Steven Gill 03.07.2026 9min

Is there a difference between calling Jesus the Son of God and calling Him God the Son? In this thought-provoking conversation from Episode 206 of The Hacka Podcast, Steven Gill explains why the Bible consistently speaks of Jesus as the Son of God—and never once as God the Son.Drawing from Romans 8, Ephesians 4, and other key passages, Steven shows how the language of Sonship reveals Jesus as both perfect man and perfect God. He addresses why Jesus prayed to the Father, why submission proves His humanity, and how the doctrine of the Trinity struggles to reconcile these truths.If you’ve ever wrestled with questions about Sonship, the Trinity, or Oneness theology, this clip will give you clarity, scriptural insight, and a deeper understanding of who Jesus really is.

228. Ric Gonzalez - Walking in Spiritual Authority 30.06.2026 54min

What does it look like to live in the gifts of the Spirit every single day?In this episode, we are joined by Bishop Ric Gonzalez, founding pastor of ICF in Chicago, Illinois. He shares his dramatic testimony of salvation, how God called him out of gang life and into ministry, and the lessons that have shaped more than four decades of apostolic leadership.The conversation explores spiritual authority, accountability, discerning the voice of God, operating in the gifts of the Spirit, and why miracles should always point people to Jesus. Bro Gonzalez also explains how believers can minister to people outside the four walls of the church by loving others, discerning their needs, and faithfully sowing seeds wherever God leads them.Whether you're a pastor, ministry leader, or believer hungry for more of God, this episode will challenge you to pursue a deeper walk with Christ and refuse to settle for anything less than His best.In this episode you'll discover:- Ric Gonzalez's remarkable testimony of salvation- The importance of spiritual authority and accountability- How to steward the gifts of the Spirit- Discerning spirits and ministering with wisdom- The difference between spiritual authority and spiritual power- Why miracles must always point people to salvation- Ministering beyond the church walls- Encouragement for the next generation of apostolic leaders------------For extended show notes -

CLIP: The Biggest Mistake Worship Leaders Make | Brittani Scott 26.06.2026 2min

What if the biggest obstacle to powerful worship isn't your talent... but your prayer life?In this powerful clip from The Hacka Podcast, Brittani Scott challenges worship leaders, singers, musicians, media teams, and every ministry volunteer with a timely reminder: ministry without prayer becomes performance.Worship isn't just about music—it's spiritual warfare. If we want to see chains broken, lives changed, and genuine moves of God, it starts long before Sunday morning. It starts in the prayer room.Whether you lead worship every week or simply serve in your local church, this conversation will encourage you to deepen your walk with God and rediscover the spiritual responsibility that comes with serving His Kingdom.If this video encouraged you, make sure to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE it with someone serving in worship or ministry.

227. Dr Tom Trimble - What Is Your Smartphone Doing to Your Soul? 16.06.2026 1h 1min

Smartphones, social media, algorithms, AI, and endless scrolling have reshaped the way we live, think, communicate, and even worship. But what impact are these technologies having on our souls?In this episode of The Hacka Podcast, Greg Hackathorn sits down with Dr. Tom Trimble, pastor of Restoration Church in St. Charles, Missouri, and author of Digital Dominion.Drawing from more than a decade of research and his doctoral work, Dr. Trimble explores the intersection of technology, sociology, and theology. Together, they discuss smartphone addiction, social media's effect on identity and relationships, the rise of anxiety in younger generations, and why Christians must develop a biblical framework for navigating the digital age.Dr. Trimble also shares practical wisdom on parenting, ministry, creativity, and raising children who love God while engaging culture with discernment.If you've ever wondered whether your phone is shaping your spiritual life more than you realize, this conversation is for you.📖 Get the book on Amazon or if you are in the US order here - https://overflowcoffee.square.site/shop/dr-tom-trimble-book/2XSK3L2BSIGXVNCW4VB4QFWSFor extended show notes - https://hacka.org/2026/06/17/227-dr-tom-trimble-what-is-your-smartphone-doing-to-your-soul/

CLIP: I Thought I Knew Hunger for God... Then I Went to Papua New Guinea | Tevita Uate 09.06.2026 8min

What happens when your understanding of sacrifice, worship, and commitment to God is completely challenged?In this powerful clip from Episode 82 of The Hacka Podcast, Tevita Uate shares the life-changing experience that reshaped his perspective on ministry. During a trip to Papua New Guinea, he witnessed young people arriving hours before service, believers walking incredible distances to worship, and a level of hunger for God that left him deeply convicted.One story in particular changed him forever: a group of young people who walked eight days just to attend a youth conference.Their passion, sacrifice, and love for God challenged every excuse and every complaint Tevita had ever carried. This is a testimony that will inspire you to pursue God with greater passion and gratitude.Watch the full clip and ask yourself: How hungry am I for the things of God?

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