Hospitality as Spiritual Practice and Everyday Witness

Continuing the conversation, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds talk with Laura Murray about the spiritual practices that shape a life of hospitality and welcome. Laura discusses practices such as listening, humility, generosity, discernment, and prayer, showing how these rhythms form people who genuinely care for others. The conversation also explores practical ways churches, ministry leaders, and small groups can create spaces of deeper connection and belonging. This episode offers both spiritual insight and practical encouragement for anyone wanting to embody God’s welcome more faithfully in everyday life.

https://laurabmurray.com/

Welcome, Presence, and the Formation of Hospitality

In this episode of Next Step Leadership Podcast, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds welcome Laura Murray for a thoughtful conversation about hospitality, belonging, and spiritual formation. Drawing from her book Becoming a Person of Welcome: The Spiritual Practice of Hospitality, Laura reflects on the experiences that shaped her understanding of welcome and why hospitality is about much more than opening a home or hosting an event. Together, they explore the longing people carry for connection and the invitation to become people whose lives reflect the welcoming presence of God. This episode offers encouragement for leaders, churches, and individuals seeking to cultivate authentic belonging in a disconnected world.

https://laurabmurray.com/

Vision, Leadership, and the Road Ahead

Continuing the conversation, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds talk with Aaron Johnson about leadership, vision, and the future. Aaron shares key suggestions for today’s leaders, the message he feels most compelled to communicate, and his hopes and prayers for what lies ahead. He also discusses how listeners can connect with him and continue engaging with his work. This episode offers forward-looking encouragement for leaders who desire to serve with clarity, faith, and purpose.

Books by Aaron - https://www.amazon.com/stores/Aaron-Johnson/author/B07XY9S6VJ?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=b0683eed-1697-48d5-ae0c-e9ba952e7894

Game Changers Lead Podcast - YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/@GameChangersLead

Story, Leadership, and Present Calling

In this episode, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds welcome Aaron Johnson for a conversation about his journey and current work in leadership. Aaron shares his story, the experiences that shaped his path, and what he is learning in this present season of life. He also offers practical insights and encouragement for listeners seeking to lead well and live with purpose. This episode highlights the importance of growth, perspective, and staying attentive to what God is doing right now.

Books by Aaron - https://www.amazon.com/stores/Aaron-Johnson/author/B07XY9S6VJ?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=b0683eed-1697-48d5-ae0c-e9ba952e7894

Game Changers Lead Podcast - YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/@GameChangersLead

Healing, Pressure, and Hope for Leaders

In this follow-up conversation, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds continue with Dr. Blake Rackley, focusing on emotional health, leadership pressure, and the realities many people face today. Dr. Rackley discusses the deep hurts present in individuals and communities, along with the unique challenges leaders carry as they care for others. He offers practical guidance for addressing pain in healthy ways and encourages leaders to care for their own souls as well. This episode provides thoughtful insight and hopeful direction for those seeking healing and resilience.

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/blake-rackley-0a412b57/

Facebooks - https://www.facebook.com/blake.rackley.2025

Story, Loss, and Lessons from Counseling

In this episode, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds welcome Blake Rackley for a deeply personal and meaningful conversation. Dr. Rackley shares his life story, including the profound impact of his son Jon Michael, and how those experiences have shaped his calling in counseling and ministry. Drawing from years of walking with others through pain and healing, he reflects on the life lessons he has learned along the way. This episode offers both honesty and hope for anyone navigating grief, loss, or the complexities of caring for others.

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/blake-rackley-0a412b57/

Facebooks - https://www.facebook.com/blake.rackley.2025

EPISODE 2 — Brianna Lambert

Message, Application, and Connection

Continuing the conversation, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds talk with Brianna Lambert about the deeper message of her book and how it applies to everyday life. Brianna shares practical ways readers can engage her work individually or in group settings, along with suggestions for living out its message. She also discusses how listeners can connect with her and continue learning from her journey. This episode offers clear takeaways and encouragement for those seeking to grow in faith, perspective, and purpose.

https://briannalambert.com/

Brianna's books -

https://www.amazon.com/stores/Brianna-Janelle-Lambert/author/B0FQ6TGG5W?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=c59036c6-c95c-455d-a595-f0019fec0e2e

EPISODE 1 — Brianna Lambert

Story, Formation, and Calling

In this episode of Next Step Leadership Podcast, Chris Maxwell and Tracy Reynolds welcome Brianna Lambert for a conversation about her personal journey of faith and leadership. Brianna shares the experiences that shaped her story, the lessons she has learned along the way, and how God has guided her into her current calling. She also introduces the heart behind her book, offering insight into the message she hopes will resonate with readers. This episode provides an honest and encouraging look at growth, purpose, and the ongoing process of becoming who God calls us to be.

https://briannalambert.com/

Brianna's books -

https://www.amazon.com/stores/Brianna-Janelle-Lambert/author/B0FQ6TGG5W?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=c59036c6-c95c-455d-a595-f0019fec0e2e