ExEm Podcast
Conversations around life, faith, and the journey of mental health.
The ExEm (Experience Emerge) Podcast, with musician-turned-mental health therapist, Matt Knabe, uncovers the various ways people find rest and live free amidst the crazy challenges life brings. With a zoned-in focus, Matt carefully probes into the broken places of people’s lives, bringing the listener into the experience, all the while adding life tools and insights.
SEASON 5 • EPISODE 15
100th Episode: Wisdom for Leaders, Pastors & Difference-Makers
- Pastor Dino Rizzo
- November 22, 2024
As we celebrate 100 episodes, we talk life and leadership with Pastor Dino Rizzo — the Director of ARC Churches, a passionate leader equipping churches worldwide, an author, a devoted husband and father, and a member of the senior pastor leadership team at Church of the Highlands in Birmingham, AL.
Pastor Dino shares his incredible faith, leadership, and service journey. From practical insights for church growth to inspiring stories of outreach and compassion, this conversation is packed with wisdom and encouragement for leaders, pastors, and anyone passionate about making a difference.
SEASON 5 • EPISODE 14
Navigating the Political Climate as Christians
- Pastor Rob Ketterling
- October 18, 2024
As our world grows increasingly divided, many believers grapple with how to engage with the political climate while staying true to their faith. Pastor Rob Ketterling brings his wisdom and experience to this timely conversation, offering biblical perspectives on how Christians can navigate political tension, remain grounded in their values, and be a light in these challenging times. Join the conversation as we discuss the balance between faith and politics, how to foster unity in a divided world, and the church’s role in today’s society.
SEASON 5 • EPISODE 13
The Leadership Squeeze: Navigating the Middle-Earth of Ministry
- Dr. Robert Crosby
- October 11, 2024
We dive deep into leadership challenges in the Christian community with Emerge’s President/CEO, Dr. Robert Crosby, a seasoned pastor, author, and leadership expert. Our conversation explores unique pressures faced by Christian leaders today—the “leadership squeeze”—from balancing personal faith with public responsibilities to managing expectations within their congregations and communities. Dr. Crosby shares his insights on how Christian leaders can navigate these challenges while staying true to their calling.
SEASON 5 • EPISODE 12
How To Have Care and Not Concern
- Kemp Boyd
- September 6, 2024
We sit down with Kemp Boyd, the dynamic Executive Director of Love Akron, a nonprofit organization with a mission to bring unity to the city of Akron, Ohio, and beyond. Kemp shares his passion for creating meaningful connections across diverse communities, breaking down barriers, and bringing people together through the Gospel’s transformative power. Discover the story behind Love Akron, its impact on the city, and Kemp’s vision for a unified community rooted in love, compassion, and faith. Join us for an inspiring conversation about the power of togetherness, service, and living out one’s faith in everyday life.
SEASON 5 • EPISODE 11
A Secret You Would Never Have Believed
- Vaughn Fink
- August 22, 2024
Our guest, Vaughn Fink, takes us deeper into his journey through trauma and adversity, revealing a family secret that you won’t believe. After years of enduring pain and hardship, Vaughn discovered a truth about his family that shook him to his core—something hidden away for decades, only coming to light after the passing of his father. Join Vaughn as he shares the shocking details of this revelation, the impact it had on his faith, and how he found the strength to move forward. This is a story of resilience, redemption, and the incredible ways faith can guide us through even the most unimaginable trials.
SEASON 5 • EPISODE 10
Paralyzed In Life, But Not In Faith
- Dr. Jason Kolb
- July 16, 2024
In this inspiring episode, we dive into the remarkable story of Dr. Jason Kolb, an avid skier whose life took an unexpected turn after a devastating skiing accident. Jason shares his emotional and physical journey, detailing the challenges he faced and how he navigated through the darkest times. Through candid conversation, we explore how Jason found solace and strength in his faith, which has not only helped him cope with his new reality but also fueled his determination to live life to the fullest.
SEASON 5 • EPISODE 9
Path to a Life of Surrender & Reclaim Concert
- Anna Hurst
- July 2, 2024
Hear about Anna Hurst’s incredible journey of surrender and faith as she opens up about her adult baptism, the divine guidance that steers her family life, and the unshakable faith that has shaped her path. Discover the miracles and divine orchestration that led her to organize “Reclaim” — a transformative worship concert to unite churches under God’s banner.
The Reclaim Concert will be held on Thursday, July 18th at the Blossom Music Center at 7:00pm.
SEASON 5 • EPISODE 8
What Is Church Hurt & What Is Not
- Gary Underwood, MDiv, DMin
- June 21, 2024
Gary Underwood, Emerge’s Director of Development & Ministry Partnerships, shares a glimpse into his life and experiences as a pastor. He and Matt Knabe engage in a discussion about church hurt and wounds, exploring the nuances of the term and the distinction between church discipline and church hurt.
SEASON 5 • EPISODE 7
Journey From Musician to Psychotherapist & A Broken Heart
- Matthew Knabe, MA, LPC
- June 7, 2024
In an interview led by Gary Underwood (Director of Development & Ministry Partnerships at Emerge), we hear a deeply personal and touching story from the host of ExEm, Matt Knabe (Director of Operations at Emerge). From Matt’s experiences as a recording artist and touring musician to his current role as a psychotherapist, he will share how each season of his life has shaped his journey. Additionally, he will bravely open up about the health scare he has been battling over the past year.
SEASON 5 • EPISODE 6
Transformation Through Experiential Truth
- Dr. Dave Blankenship
- April 22, 2024
Dr. Dave Blankenship, Clinical Director at Emerge Counseling Ministries, discusses how experiential truth can help individuals achieve lasting change and growth. Dr. Blankenship has extensive experience working with individuals who have undergone significant transformation through this powerful approach to counseling, and shares specific techniques and strategies that it uses. Whether you are someone who is seeking personal transformation or simply interested in learning more about this innovative approach to counseling, you will not want to miss this conversation.
SEASON 5 • EPISODE 5
Adversities Become Victories
- Dae’vontay Latimer
- March 21, 2024
Get ready to be inspired by today’s episode, where you’ll hear the remarkable story of Dae’vontay Latimer. Despite facing numerous hardships and setbacks, he has overcome them with the help of God’s divine intervention. Through his experiences, he has learned to appreciate the value of faith and resilience, and we can all gain valuable insights from his journey.
SEASON 5 • EPISODE 4
Anxiety, Depression & Sabertooth Tigers
- Patrick Milloy, MS, LPCC-S
- March 8, 2024
We dive into a comprehensive analysis of anxiety and depression with Emerge therapist Patrick Milloy, MS, LPCC-S. With expert insights, our conversation provides a clear understanding of what these terms really mean and the intricate nuances that differentiate between the clinical implications of these conditions and their normal life experiences.
SEASON 5 • EPISODE 3
Mindfulness to Bring Balance
- Kate Dunn
- February 26, 2024
Kate Dunn, who has been an RN for over 40 years, shares her expertise in mindfulness with everyone who is ready. Kate guides us into a state of meditation and relaxation, and even provides us with an exercise near the end of our conversation.
SEASON 5 • EPISODE 2
Country Singer Turned Worship Leader
- Chris Hurt
- February 16, 2024
Our host invites a long-time friend to talk about his journey through the many difficult ups and downs of life. Chris describes his time touring in the country music industry and then the path that led him to find God. Chris now uses his gift of singing on his worship team at his home church and is experiencing a refreshed new perspective on life.
SEASON 5 • EPISODE 1
“Out of the Garden”
- Jen Hoffman, LPC
- January 19, 2024
We talk with therapist and author Jen Hoffman about her book, Out of the Garden: Breaking Free From Sin and Shame. Jen’s book explores finding rest and purpose in our journey inviting the reader to take a closer look at what shapes personal identity, values, and beliefs.