Competing for Christ Podcast

The End

Ken Burke — Tue, 13 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0400

To all the listeners, guests, supporters, and fans of the Competing for Christ Podcast, thank you.

Jesus loves you, and He will fight for you no matter what.

Lead with Faith with Seattle Seahawks In-Game Host, Author, Pastor, and Athlete Andy Dooley

Ken Burke — Mon, 29 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Today we are talking to Andy Dooley, former football player, pastor, fitness professional, and in-game host of the Seattle Seahawks. It was an honor getting to talk with Andy today as we get to discuss everything that he has learned as someone that has been around sports for so long. He is someone that has used his platform for good, and gets to connect with people every day.

Something else that we get to talk about today is a very special project that Andy has been working on: Andy’s new 100-Day Devotional Lead with Faith, Play with Purpose coming out on July 30th. We get to deep dive into some of the key topics that arise in the book, and things that athletes face every single day.

Throughout our discussion, we get to talk about:

How faith, family, and football changed Andy's life
Using an opportunity to grow his love for football and people
How he has dealt with failure in his life
Why he wrote Lead with Faith, Play with Purpose
Relying on Christ while going through really hard things
How to get Andy's new devotional

Get Lead with Faith, Play with Purpose coming out on July 30th!

Want some merch? Check out the official podcast store for Competing for Christ Podcast merch including hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!

From every sale, half of the proceeds will go to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!

Subscribe to the show and share this episode with an athlete!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Keep Going with Former Collegiate Baseball Player/Coach & Podcast Host Pat O'Malley

Ken Burke — Wed, 24 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0400

What does it mean to you to keep going? To some, it could mean keep grinding through on the field or court in order to achieve something. To others, it could mean that you need to keep pushing in life to get to where you want to be, both physically and mentally. For Pat O’Malley, this phrase “Keep Going”, means even more.

Pat is a former collegiate baseball player and coach, now works for NCSA, and is a host of the Keep Going Podcast, shining a light on mental health from an athletes point of view. Pat joins us today to share what he’s learned as someone who has been both a player and a coach, and both as a Christian and as someone that did not follow Christ while he was an athlete.

Today, we discuss:

Not letting sports define who you are
How Pat relates to athletes from lessons he learned in the past
Why outside factors play such a big role in athletes' mental health
How to balance physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health
Being a Christian in sports - advantage or disadvantage?

Listen to the Keep Going Podcast now!

Want some merch? Check out the official podcast store for Competing for Christ Podcast merch including hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!

Subscribe to the show and share this episode with an athlete!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Shepherding the Sidelines with GVSU Athletes in Action Campus Director Steve Anderson

Ken Burke — Wed, 10 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Steve Anderson is the Athletes in Action Campus Director for Grand Valley State University. As he has poured intro athletes for years now, he lives out what it truly means to disciple athletes through relationship building, community, and servant leadership. Throughout his life, he has endured a lot of hardship and struggles, but through it all has found how God has used those trying times for good.

Steve joins the show today to talk about his unique role at GVSU, his love for sports ministry, and how he has seen God move on GVSU's campus. During our discussion today, we talk about:

The best part of working with young people through sports
How athletes can know that God has a job for them for His kingdom, even outside of sports
Why he started the blog Shepherding the Sidelines
How he's seen God move through losses, on and off the field
What he's learned about longevity in his ministry efforts and life

Buy Stephanie Burdette's new devotional, Knowing God's Love; Given Not Earned.

Want some merch? Check out the official podcast store for Competing for Christ Podcast merch including hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!

Subscribe to the show and share this episode with an athlete!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Coaching with a Purpose with Coronado High School Football Coach and Influencer Kurt Hines

Ken Burke — Wed, 26 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Coach Kurt Hines is the Head Football Coach of Coronado High School (CA), a Motivational Speaker, and Influencer. As someone that has been coaching for decades now, he truly embodies what it means to live out your calling as a Christian in sports.

Coach Hines is extremely motivational, not just to his players but to everyone he comes in contact with. Throughout our conversation today, listen as we discuss:

How God has used football as a ministry in Coach Hines' life
The most difficult part in continuing to evolve as a coach
How he sees his players as children of God
What's harder: keeping the faith while losing, or humbling yourself when winning
A unique story of a player that impacted millions
Why he thinks God called him to be a coach

Want some merch? Check out the official podcast store for Competing for Christ Podcast merch including hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!

Subscribe to the show and share this episode with an athlete!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

When God Moves in Unexpected Ways with Former Division 1 Softball Player and Podcast Host Laurèn Schiek

Ken Burke — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0400

In sport and in life, there are things that you can’t control, but Christ calls you to look to him in those moments. James 4 says that “You do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.”

We have so much hope in Christ though. He’s our ONLY hope. And for Laurèn Schiek, she’s had to rely on his plan a lot recently. Lauren played softball at Santa Clara and Abilene Christian University, and although she had success, her time as a collegiate athlete came with many trials, one of which came her senior year.

Today's conversation includes:

How Laurèn has seen God move in her life
What a diagnosis meant for her softball career and future
Reminding herself that softball is secondary to Jesus
What college sports are truly like
How impactful the For His Glory Podcast has been on her life

Make sure to check out the For His Glory Podcast here!

Buy Stephanie Burdette's new devotional, Knowing God's Love; Given Not Earned.

Want some merch? Check out the official podcast store for Competing for Christ Podcast merch including hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!

Subscribe to the show and share this episode with an athlete!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Achievements Don’t Define You with Grand Canyon University Softball Player and WAC Player of the Year Ashley Trierweiler

Ken Burke — Wed, 29 May 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Today we are talking to Ashley Trierweiler, someone that has achieved a lot as a Division 1 softball player. At both schools she has went to, Santa Clara and Grand Canyon University, here are just a couple of her achievements:

WAC champion
WAC player of the year
All-American
All-Conference (multiple times)
Number 1 in hits in the nation this year (Number 2 last year)

Ashley has done a lot in her career, but something that we focus on today is how achievements, whether you win something amazing or if you don’t achieve anything at all, don’t define you as a Christian athlete.

On this episode, Ashley and Ken discuss:

What softball has meant to Ashley throughout her life
How she doesn't let the stats, records, and wins define who she is
Ways she's used her platform as a D1 athlete to show Christ to others
How Christ has used success in her life
What she hopes people remember about her softball career

Want some merch? Check out the official podcast store for Competing for Christ Podcast merch including hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!

Subscribe to the show and share this episode with an athlete!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

How God Truly Changes You with Verrado High School Basketball Coach and FCA Arizona Rep Dra Rogers

Ken Burke — Wed, 22 May 2024 00:00:00 -0400

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." - 2 Corinthians 5:17. When you invite God into your life, He will change how you speak, how you act, how you play sports, and how you live. How have you seen that happen in your life? Have you experienced that change?

For Dra Rogers, he can say that God has completely changed how he lives and how he coaches the game of basketball. Dra is the head basketball coach at Verrado High School in Arizona and also works with FCA Arizona West Valley. As someone that has coached both as a Christian and as someone who was not, he understands what it means to have Christ truly change the person that you are.

Today, we sit down with Dra to discuss:

How sports shaped Dra before coming to know Christ
The biggest difference in how he coaches now vs. when he wasn't a believer
A crazy story of him starting his work with FCA
How to connect with athletes today through Jesus
The balance of exercising free will vs. letting God be in control

NEW MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for brand new Competing for Christ Podcast merch including trucker hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Why God Opens Some Doors and Closes Others with Former University of Indianapolis Athlete Caleb Irving

Ken Burke — Wed, 15 May 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Whether we are aware of this or not, God has a purpose for every single door he opens and shuts. What he does may not make sense to us in the moment, but when you look back, you can see why God brought you through the things that He did.

The same thing can be said for Caleb Irving. Caleb is a former University of Indianapolis football player and diver, and I had the chance to be in small groups with him with Athletes in Action. Today he joins the show to discuss this topic of how God has used opened and closed doors in his life, thoughts on his time as an athlete in multiple sports, and if he regrets anything that he’s gone through.

Discussion points for our discussion:

The biggest lesson Caleb learned during his time as an athlete
What he's learned about God closing some doors to open others
The hardest part about letting God be in control
How to remember that Jesus is the only door that has an eternal impact
Being stewards of the Word that God has given us

NEW MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for brand new Competing for Christ Podcast merch including trucker hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Confidence Over Cockiness with Author, Founder of Renewed Mind Performance, & Sports Psychology Specialist Ray Santiago

Ken Burke — Wed, 08 May 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Everyone should be advocates for athletes taking care of their spiritual and mental health, maybe even more so than physical health. It's crucial to have belief in your abilities in practices, games, and life.

But what happens when that belief and confidence in yourself turns into something more than that? What if it turns into becoming cocky and leaning too much on your own talents rather than trusting in God’s power, strength, and timing?

Ray Santiago, author, founder of Renewed Mind Performance, Sports Psychology specialist, and former baseball player joins the show again today to talk about building confidence that leans on God’s abilities, not just yours. Along with discussing some principles in his new book, The Pillar B's, his conversation dives into:

A misconception that athletes have when it comes to believing in themselves
What/Who Ray would recommend athletes watch or study when trying to gain confidence
The biggest difference between someone that has confidence and someone that is cocky
Having confidence that doesn’t turn into cockiness
How we can have confidence in Jesus over ourselves

Order Ray's new book, The Pillar B's, NOW: https://www.amazon.com/Pillar-Bs-Transform-Biggest-Critic-ebook/dp/B0BPK6GXCR

NEW MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for brand new Competing for Christ Podcast merch including trucker hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Playing For Eternity with Founder and Director of Playing 4 Eternity Sports Ministry Don Weyrick

Ken Burke — Wed, 01 May 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Today we are talking to Founder and Director of Playing 4 Eternity (P4E) Sports Ministry Don Weyrick. Through this ministry, Don has reached hundreds, if not thousands, of people through the game of basketball. Don is someone that has let Jesus use him for the sake of the Gospel in sports by running games, tournaments, and leagues that include everyone, no matter who you are.

As you will soon find out, Don just started working with our friends over at CEDE Sports as well! But today, Don shows us all that no matter what you’ve done in your life, your past doesn’t define you. As a matter of fact, Christ may even use your past to help someone else’s present or future.

Listen as we discuss:

Don's testimony and love for basketball
Where the idea of P4E Sports Ministry came from
Using his past experiences to relate to athletes
Why God uses our past mistakes to help someone else's present/future
God growing the game of basketball to reach people around the world

NEW MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for brand new Competing for Christ Podcast merch including trucker hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Becoming a Rooted Competitor with Tennis Coach and Former University of Florida Tennis Player Jordan Belga

Ken Burke — Wed, 24 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Former University of Florida tennis player and current pro tennis coach Jordan Belga joins us today to talk about what he has learned with blending together his love for Jesus and his passion for sport. As someone that has a fascinating journey to get to where he is today, Jordan opens up about some very important topics like finding his worth in Jesus, what he went through as a youth and high school athlete, and more.

One thing that Jordan and Ken spend some time on today is his platform for athletes called Rooted Competitor. This Instagram page gives athletes and people that love sports an opportunity to open up and just share what they’ve gone through and how they’ve seen Christ move in their lives.

So many have been impacted by this page, and you should check it out: https://www.instagram.com/rootedcompetitor/

Listen today as we discuss:

The process of blending together a love for Jesus with a love for sports
Not putting your identity in the wins or the losses
What Jordan learned from a difficult experience through sport
Why he started Rooted Competitor
How his life experiences formed the idea of Rooted Competitor

NEW MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for brand new Competing for Christ Podcast merch including trucker hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Representing Christ as a New Head Coach with Oglethorpe University Volleyball Coach Liv Tidmore

Ken Burke — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Can you imagine graduating from college and essentially going right into a collegiate head coaching position? That is exactly what our guest today did!

Coach Liv Tidmore, Head Coach of the Oglethorpe University volleyball team and Covenant College alum joins the show today to talk about how she is showing Christ while being one of youngest head coaches in the country. Liv graduated with Ken from Covenant in 2022 and was hired as the Oglethorpe Head Coach in 2023, something that she will let she did not see coming.

As she has stepped into this role, she’s already learned so much about how to lead as a Christian in a secular setting, how to represent women in her coaching role, and especially what this opportunity means for her. Listen today as we discuss:

Her decision to attend Covenant College and why she stayed after a career-ending injury
How she became a collegiate head coach so quickly
Thoughts on being one of the youngest college head coaches in the nation
Bringing Christian values into a non-Christian setting
Why it's important for women to have leadership roles, especially in sports

NEW MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for brand new Competing for Christ Podcast merch including trucker hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Finding Balance with North Carolina WBB National Champion and Elon Head WBB Coach Charlotte Smith

Ken Burke — Wed, 10 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0400

The year was 1994 when Charlotte Smith stepped onto the court for the North Carolina Tar Heels in the Women’s Basketball National Championship game. With less than a second to go and down by two, Charlotte got the inbound pass, threw up a prayer, and sunk the shot to clinch the title. One of the greatest shots in the history of college basketball. But unlike any fairytale story that you may hear, this wasn’t the end of Charlotte’s story.

Charlotte Smith joins the show today to talk about how Christ has affected her life as an athlete, coach, and human being. Throughout our discussion today, you will learn a lot about what she has gone through, and you will also learn of something special that I Am Second has done with her. Check out the new film "Finding Balance", an I Am Second original film of Charlotte’s life as an athlete and coach. You will also hear more about:

Chasing the immense high of winning a national championship
How playing overseas transformed Charlotte's spiritual life
The way she looks at winning/losing now as a coach
Letting God take control of her life through basketball and beyond
How she relies on Christ to keep her in the present

NEW MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for brand new Competing for Christ Podcast merch including trucker hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Basketball as a Mission Field with Former Professional and Collegiate Basketball Player Phil Morrison

Ken Burke — Wed, 03 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Do you look at your sport as a mission field? Through doing this podcast, I have learned that all sports can and should be used as a mission field for those that proclaim Jesus as their savior. We should be willing to show that Christ-likeness in how we perform, compete, train, and interact with everyone we come in contact with.

Phil Morrison, AKA the Basketball Missionary, joins the show today to talk about why God has called him to spread the Gospel while teaching basketball to thousands of people. As a former collegiate and professional basketball player, Phil uses his life experiences to show others what Jesus has done for him, and what he continues to do through him as he travels the world. With an incredible story, listen today as we get to discuss:

Phil's love for Jesus and basketball
The best part of playing collegiate and professional basketball
Using a platform to glorify God globally
Why he started Hoops for Christ
"God's sport": the story of James Naismith inventing basketball

NEW MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for brand new Competing for Christ Podcast merch including trucker hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Hip Replacement to Homecoming Queen with High School Athlete Kenzie Burke

Ken Burke — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0400

On this episode, we are talking to someone that has faced a lot in her life. Today I had the honor of talking with Clay High School volleyball/flag football player, homecoming queen, and one of my sisters, Kenzie Burke. Kenzie has lived a lot of life as an athlete and as a person even though she is just 18. In this conversation, we get to hear about how she has dealt with a massive obstacle in her life: having a hip replacement at 13 years old.

Throughout the injury process, understanding why God brought her through that, and learning how to play sports again after that, she continues to represent the mercy and grace Jesus provides. Listen as we discuss:

Her story from hip replacement to homecoming queen
Why she's been so determined to play the sports
Balancing of working hard with trusting that God has a plan
How she plans to stay connected with Christ in college
What she's going to miss most about being a high school student athlete

NEW MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for brand new Competing for Christ Podcast merch including trucker hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Being A Christian In The NFL with Detroit Lions Long Snapper Scott Daly

Ken Burke — Wed, 20 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Detroit Lions long snapper Scott Daly joins us to talk about how he lives his faith out in the National Football League (NFL) and his unique story from someone that was the #1 long snapper coming out of high school. While he attended Notre Dame in college to play football, he says that this is where his faith became a real relationship. He has played on a variety of teams in the NFL, AAF, and XFL until eventually securing his spot on the Lions.

As he has had to trust in God's timing through not playing, getting cut, and through an injury he suffered this past season, Scott gives advice for all athletes that proclaim Christ as their savior. Listen as we discuss:

How he came to know Jesus
Relying on God through uncertain and challenging circumstances
Why a support system can be so crucial for athletes
Taking a bullet for Dan Campbell
What God has shown him about trust and mercy
4th down chances and conversions

NEW MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for brand new Competing for Christ Podcast merch including trucker hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Understanding Christ’s Call with North Carolina FC Player Rafa Mentzingen

Ken Burke — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0400

How can we discern what God’s calling is for our lives? For all of us that are born again believers, we all have a call to proclaim the Gospel to the nations and show Christ’s love to everyone we come in contact with. But there’s also the other callings that we have in our lives, such as being an athlete, what job you’re going to do, who you’re going to marry, and so many other things that God calls us into. But that big call that we have as believers never changes.

For Rafa Mentzingen, he heard a call from God to come to the US from Brazil in order to chase his dream of being a professional soccer (or football) player. Now, as someone who is actually living out that dream with North Carolina FC of the USL League One, Rafa is showing Christ through how he plays on the soccer field.

Today we get to talk with Rafa about his story and how he understood God’s calling to come to the US to pursue this dream. Even through some really challenging times, he never questioned what God had in store for him. Listen as we discuss:

Feeling Christ’s presence while playing
The hardest part of coming to the US from Brazil
Winning the USL League One Final after years of determination
How athletes can understand what Christ is calling them to
Staying in the present and not worrying about tomorrow
Advice for young players that want to pursue their dreams of playing professionally

NEW MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for brand new Competing for Christ Podcast merch including trucker hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Handling The Spotlight with Wisconsin Football Player Darryl Peterson

Ken Burke — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Today we’re talking about how to handle the spotlight as a Christian in sports, because whether you realize it or not, being an athlete comes with some level of notoriety no matter what country or culture you may find yourself in. You can be a high school athlete or you could be suiting up to play in the NFL or the Premier League, but at some level you’re going to have to learn how to represent Christ while on the stage of your sport.

That is why today I invited on University of Wisconsin football player Darryl Peterson. Darryl plays in front of tens of thousands of people every single week in the fall, and it is clear to me and everyone who watches him that he is a force on that field. It is also clear who he is portraying in Christ. Throughout this interview you’ll learn:

What it's meant to him to play Division 1 football at Wisconsin
How his versatility has helped him as a football player and person
Managing the spotlight since he was in high school
Athletes being looked to as societal figures, role models, or even idols
What has helped his faith throughout his athletic career
What he hopes people remember him by

NEW MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for brand new Competing for Christ Podcast merch including trucker hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Battling Sin with Former Collegiate Baseball Player and Influencer Zach Dehn

Ken Burke — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -0400

How do you navigate sin? How does it affect you as an athlete? What does the Bible say about sin? Well today we are going to go in-depth on what it means to not only battle against sin, but also realizing that we are all broken, sinful people that need a savior in Jesus.

Today I invited on former collegiate baseball player, influencer, and podcaster Zach Dehn to talk about this topic and things that he has learned from sin that he has battled throughout his life as an athlete, specifically in college. Zach is fully transparent and I appreciate that because as he is sinful just like everyone in this world, he trusts in Christ now more than ever and gives his sin to Him.

Today we talk about:

What it means to him to have a relationship with Christ
How sin affected how he played and how he navigated being an athlete
How difficult it is to live out your faith while being around other athletes that aren't Christian
Blending his prayer life and social media
Why he started the Hey God Podcast

Check out the Hey God Podcast and Zach's inspirational videos on TikTok and Instagram!

NEW MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for brand new Competing for Christ Podcast merch including trucker hats, sweatshirts, and coffee mugs!

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

11 Lessons From 100 Episodes of the Competing for Christ Podcast

Ken Burke — Wed, 21 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -0400

When I set out to start the Competing for Christ Podcast, I had no idea that nearly 3 years later, I’d still be doing it. To be honest with you, I didn’t know what to think. I had maybe a handful of topics to discuss in mind and only 3 people that I wanted to interview. Never could I have imagined that I would get to 100. But over and over again I have seen God move in ways that are unexplainable.

I have seen Him reach people across the world with a simple, yet profound message: glorifying Christ through sports. I wanted to blend together my love for Christ and my love for sports because I felt like there wasn’t a resource out there where athletes could go to learn, discuss, and share about how to bring Christ into any sport that you play. Little did I know that it would make it this far.

With individuals from nearly 50 countries that have tuned in, thousands of downloads, and hundreds of people that I have gotten to meet through this podcast, God has taken it further than ever expected. Today we dive into 11 major lessons that I have learned from from 100 episodes, including:

Identity issues being the NUMBER ONE way Satan is attacking Christian athletes
You don’t need a degree or title or level of success to make an impact
Jesus doesn’t call you to be perfect, He calls you to trust in His perfection
Coaches should not be who you want to impress the most
Jesus is in everything, especially sports

NEW MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for brand new Competing for Christ Podcast merch, celebrating 100 episodes!

From every sale that we get, half of that money is going to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Experiencing Christ Through Challenges with Abilene Christian Football Player Anthony Egbo Jr.

Ken Burke — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -0400

When you’ve gone through a challenging time in your life, you may find it quite hard to experience Christ through that time. Or you could be on the other side of the spectrum where you feel God’s love so deeply during this challenging time. For myself and our guest today, we have both been on either side of that coin. But how do we navigate this topic when you are pursuing a relationship with Him, and want to feel Him in your life and while you pursue your dream as an athlete?

Today we get to talk to Abilene Christian University football player Anthony Egbo Jr., and throughout his life, he has faced numerous challenges that we will discuss today. But as someone that continuously pursues Christ, even outside of his sport, Anthony has not only become a better athlete, but has transformed his perception of Christ and what His plan is for Anthony’s life.

From being a walk-on to becoming a captain of the ACU football team, he replicates Christ and knows what it means to experience God through anything he goes through. Listen out for these topics:

Anthony's thoughts on continuously battling for a spot on the team
Why he thinks God called him to ACU
How he's been able to experience God’s love and His presence through challenges
What he has learned about patience
Getting involved outside of sports

PODCAST MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for Competing for Christ hats, shirts, hoodies and more. From every sale that we get, half of that money is going to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Lessons Learned as a D1 Christian Athlete with Lipscomb University Softball Player Joie Giarrizzo

Ken Burke — Wed, 07 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Today we are talking with Lipscomb University softball player Joie Giarrizzo about her softball career, her faith, and a what she has learned as a Division 1 Christian athlete. Joie is entering her 4th year of Division 1 collegiate softball and she has been living for Christ on and off the field during those years.

There are many things that you learn as a college athlete, but maybe even more so if you follow Christ throughout. Joie gives her thoughts and opinions on many different topics, including:

How Joie has managed to stay close with Jesus throughout college
An incredible mission trip that she recently went on
Who she relates to most with in the Bible
Why it's important to mentally and physically push yourself
Being able to show both servanthood and leadership

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Who Is Jesus? with Charleston Southern University Associate Athletic Director Mike Vigue

Ken Burke — Wed, 31 Jan 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Who is Jesus? The Bible says a lot about who He is, was, and will be. John says that He is the bread of life. Colossians says He is the firstborn of all creation. Luke says that He is the Son of Man. There are so many ways to describe who Jesus is and what He means to so many that put their faith in Him. What should that mean for athletes? It should mean EVERYTHING for athletes!

That’s why today we are talking to Charleston Southern University Associate Athletic Director Mike Vigue about who Jesus is to him and what Jesus can do for everyone that puts their faith in Him. This conversation was an intriguing one, and Mike brings many helpful insights that can help athletes that are wondering who Jesus really is.

Listen out for these topics today:

The biggest challenges Christian athletes face today
What Jesus has meant to Mike throughout his life
How to consistently remind yourself of who Christ is
Finding Jesus in sports
How God has guided Mike's steps to get to where he is today
What he has learned about representing Christ throughout his career in sports

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Life After Sports with Lulu & Ken Burke

Ken Burke — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Guess what? Your career as an athlete is going to come to an end. It may sound crazy, but your days as an athlete are numbered. But you have to ask yourself, what’s next? Who are you if you aren’t an athlete? Are you going to rely on Jesus for what's next?

Today we are talking about life after sports and what that looks like for Christian athletes. That is why today I invited on someone to discuss what that has looked like for her, what she’s learned since retiring from sports, and how she has been able to rely on Jesus to provide her sense of identity. We get to hear from a former Covenant College softball player and my wife, Lulu Burke.

Listen as we try to be serious and discuss:

The most difficult part of not being an athlete anymore
What we've carried on from sports into our post-athletic lives
Something that no one talks about when thinking of life after sports
Taking advantage of where God has placed you before it's too late
How to prepare for life after sports with Christ

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Mentorship That Shows Christ with The Apprentice School Head Basketball Coach Evan Kee

Ken Burke — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 00:00:00 -0400

When you think of certain mentors in your life, you probably don’t have to think too long before thinking of someone in your time as an athlete that helped mold and shape who you are as a person today.

For Coach Evan Kee, he continues to mentor and shape the minds of young men as the Head Men's Basketball Coach at The Apprentice School. The Apprentice School is a very unique Division 3 school, where athletes learn a trade, get paid for it while going to class, and get to play collegiate basketball. Coach Kee strives to be someone that these players can look up to, and someone that continuously points to Christ for his success.

Talking points for todays episode include:

What Coach Kee contributes his success to as a coach and mentor
Where he learned how to be a leader
Having a healthy mentorship aspect to a coaching philosophy
How he's looked to Christ for his identity, not sports
Why it's important for everyone to have mentors in their lives

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Growing Continuously with David Gibson, Founder of Elevation is a Must, Entrepreneur, Speaker, & Former Boxer

Ken Burke — Wed, 10 Jan 2024 00:00:00 -0400

As someone who wants to grow closer to Christ every single day, I often ask myself, “Can I grow closer to Christ while simultaneously growing as a person?” While this may be very challenging to find that balance, as people and as athletes, we always want to be the best version of ourselves while still shining the spotlight on what Jesus has done through us.

Today, we talk about consistent growth with David Gibson, founder of Elevation is a Must, providing young professionals with the tools and strategies that help them build, grow, and live out their ideas and visions. He is an entrepreneur, speaker, and former boxer! As we discuss getting better every day while growing continuously with Christ, some topics that come up include:

What David learned from his boxing career
Why it's so important to grow every day
“Your mountains aren’t for you to carry, they’re for you to climb”
Allowing Christ to shape our future rather than push our own agenda
Finding the balance of wanting to succeed but not wanting to be self-indulgent

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Maintaining Positivity Through Tragedy with Motivational Speaker & Former Ole Miss Football Player KD Hill

Ken Burke — Wed, 20 Dec 2023 00:00:00 -0400

KD Hill was a football player at Ole Miss and getting ready for the NFL Draft, destined to play with a pro football team. But in an instant, this reality shifted dramatically. KD’s life changed when he got in a car accident that severely injured his leg, and eventually had to get the leg amputated. To most people, this would be seen as a curse and would be stuck asking God, “why me?” But not KD.

KD has the most optimistic attitude for someone that is in his position. In fact, he said he’s even thankful that it happened, because it showed him that God has other plans for him besides football. But today we get to talk about his life, his path to get to where he is, and what he plans to do now as a motivational figure and someone that portrays Christ in everything he does!

Listen as we discuss:

KD's testimony as an athlete and his mindset through tragedy
Trusting in God's plan over your plan
Advise on never quitting and maintaining courage
What he would tell his younger self to prepare for what was ahead
If his outlook on life has shifted at all

Follow KD on Instagram and TikTok!

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

A Friendship Formed Through Running with Ultra Runner Matt Burdette

Ken Burke — Wed, 13 Dec 2023 00:00:00 -0400

On this episode, we are talking with Ultra Runner Matt Burdette about a friendship that he has that is one of the coolest things you will ever see. You will hear the background of Matt’s athletic journey, more on him as a runner, but something that we focused on today was his relationship with Kevin DiLegge. Kevin has cerebral palsy, but this does not stop him from being inspirational and just an all around amazing human being.

Matt and Kevin actually do races together, like the Boston Marathon and Baltimore Marathon, with Matt pushing Kevin throughout the entire race and over the finish line (Matt will tell you that Kevin actually pushes him more). This friendship is inspiring, and getting to talk with Matt in depth on them racing as a pair is something you can not miss.

We touch on a lot today, but here are some key topics discussed:

Why God has called him to running
Participating in the 2013 Boston Marathon
How this friendship with Kevin began
Striving for inclusivity in all sports
Showing love to everyone the way Jesus did

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Being In A Hurry with University of Indianapolis Soccer Player Sam Hevesy

Ken Burke — Wed, 06 Dec 2023 00:00:00 -0400

It seems like everyone is in a hurry nowadays, especially athletes. You are constantly going and going, and a lot of times your faith is the first thing to go on the back-burner. But for athletes, what can we do to slow down while still competing at the highest level and getting everything you need done, all while growing closer to Christ?

For University of Indianapolis soccer player Sam Hevesy, this issue has been something that has been on his heart for a while now. Sam is early on in his college career, but the knowledge that he brings to our discussion makes it seem like he’s older than he is! Even through some difficult experiences as an athlete and Christian, you can tell that God is working in his life and brings excellent advice to this conversation about being in a hurry.

Listen as we talk about:

What Sam has learned as a Christian collegiate athlete
How he feels connected to God when he plays soccer
Why it's so difficult to not feel hurried in today’s society
Sports getting in the way of faith
“Our time is our life, and our attention is the doorway to our hearts.” ~ John Mark Comer
What he does to prioritize his relationship with Jesus

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Staying Ready for the Moment with Kansas State Football Player Seth Porter

Ken Burke — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Today, we’re talking about staying ready for the moment and being ready to not only perform on the field, but perform off the field when sharing the Gospel with someone. Just like when you’re on the bench or getting ready to go in a game, you have to be ready. Jesus even says that we will not know the day or time when He comes back, so we have to be ready at any point.

Seth Porter is a Kansas State football player that has so much experience in this area. He prioritizes being prepared to show and spread the Gospel through his words and actions. He’s also had to stay ready for the moment for his entire athletic career for a chance to show what he can do as a walk-on athlete. But when he’s gotten those opportunities, he capitalizes, like scoring his first career touchdown just a couple of weeks ago.

Listen to learn more about:

The most difficult part of his athletic career
What keeps pushing him to succeed after six years in college
Being ready for anything, on or off the football field
What the Bible says about staying prepared
A special moment following Seth's first touchdown
How he stays humble and satisfied with Jesus

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

What Athletes Can Learn From Colossians 3:23

Ken Burke — Wed, 22 Nov 2023 00:00:00 -0400

For athletes, working hard is a part of our DNA. It's an essential part if you want to succeed or play to the best of your ability. But what does the Bible say about working hard? How do you know if you're working TOO hard? Is there such thing as working hard for the wrong reasons?

Today, I'm going to be talking about what athletes can learn from studying Colossians 3:23, what hard work should mean to an athlete, and why we are called to not only work hard at everything we do, but dedicate that to the Lord. While we may want to impress coaches, teammates, parents, or scouts, we must remember why we love, why we play, and why we are called to the sports that we love.

Throughout this solo episode, I'll be touching on:

What Colossians 3:23 should mean to athletes
How and why we are called to work hard
Working hard for the wrong reasons
Playing or practicing for God
Three practical pieces of advice to rethink how you work

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Spreading the Word From the NFL to Golf with YouTuber and Former NFL & UCONN Football Player Geremy Davis

Ken Burke — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Geremy Davis has been sharing the Gospel through sports for years now. While it may be in a variety of different ways and capacities, he continues to put Jesus first in everything that he does.

Geremy played football at UCONN and went on to play in the NFL for three different teams. As someone who had one of the most prolific careers for a wide receiver at UCONN, he dedicates everything that he has to Christ and has done that since before playing in college. Through injuries, uncertainties, and hardship, there is so much to be said about what God has been able to do through him.

Now that he has concluded his playing career on the gridiron, Geremy has shifted his mindset to a set of irons! As he is the host of the YouTube channel Golf and Gospel, he interviews athletes and the like about their playing career, what they’ve faced as athletes, and how their faith shapes everything that they do. Geremy is not ashamed of the Gospel and you can sense the passion that he has for Jesus throughout our conversation today.

Listen today and learn more from Geremy about:

His successes and battles as a UCONN and NFL football star
The hardest part of living out his faith as a Division 1 athlete and in the NFL
Making the transition after his career concluded
The backstory of Golf and Gospel
Why he's obsessed with golf and sharing the Gospel with others
Expecting the unexpected when following Jesus

Check out Golf and Gospel here!

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Surrounding Yourself With the Right People with Former Notre Dame & NFL Football Player Braxston Cave

Ken Burke — Wed, 08 Nov 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Something that is so important for every person that follows Jesus is putting people around you that love you, want to see you succeed, and most importantly speak God’s truth into your life. As an athlete, the teammates and friends that are around you will most likely influence how you live and how you act.

On today's episode, Braxston Cave, former Notre Dame and NFL offensive lineman joins the show to discuss his incredible athletic journey, his experience with God surrounding him with the right people, and more. He had an outstanding career as a football player, was one of the highest ranked recruits coming out of high school, and most importantly has a passion for following Jesus. Listen for more, including:

His experience playing in the 2012 national championship game
Repping Christ on the Notre Dame campus and in an NFL locker room
What he's learned about surrounding himself with the right people vs. the wrong crowd
Showing Christ to those around you that don't know Christ
“As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.”

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Reaching Those in Need Through Sports in Kenya with Founder and Director of New Hope Sport Centre Joseph Mwaura

Ken Burke — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Joseph Mwaura is the Founder and Director of New Hope Sport Centre in Naivasha, Kenya. Not only does this organization give opportunities to children in Africa through sports, they also share the Gospel with athletes that otherwise may never hear about Jesus.

Today, I sit down with Joseph to discuss how New Hope Sport Centre gives opportunities through sports to children. Joseph gets to be a father figure to hundreds of children, some of whom do not have fathers or have been neglected in their lives.

Listen to hear more about:

Trials and battles that Joseph has faced in his life
How he used difficult situations to promote Jesus to hundreds
Why it's important to reach out to our special needs communities to make them feel included and loved
Why sports are a great way to spread the Gospel
The most impactful story of a child that he has helped through sports

Check out New Hope Sport Centre here!

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

What Success Should Mean to a Christian Athlete with Author, Podcaster, Speaker, and Former Football Player Chip Baker

Ken Burke — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Success for Christian athletes may look different than others. Although we may want to succeed by performing well, winning, or even earning a scholarship or going pro, success for someone that loves Jesus means trusting His plan, sharing His word, and showing Christ through our actions.

Author, podcast host of The Success Chronicles, motivational speaker, and former football player Chip Baker joins us today to talk about what success should mean, and what it should look like for a Christian athlete. Chip is surrounded with success and has literally written books, gave hundreds of talks, and has spent eight years podcasting about this topic.

Throughout the conversation, we talk about:

How failing can contribute to your success
What Jesus says about success
How to not make your achievements and victories an idol in your life.
Reminding yourself that success as a Christ follower is bigger than what this world has to offer
What to do if you're feeling discouraged from lack of success

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Performing Beyond the Game with Grand Canyon University Athletic Trainer and Former Collegiate Basketball Player Chris Elliott

Ken Burke — Wed, 18 Oct 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Chris Elliott, Athletic Trainer at Grand Canyon University and former collegiate basketball player, joins the show to discuss what it means to play "beyond the game". The thoughts and wisdom that he brings to this conversation really shows how you can make an impact on athletes in a variety of different ways.

Throughout this episode you will hear a lot about Chris’ background as an athlete and his battle through injuries in his career. You will also hear about a special project that he is working on with athletes ranging from the high school level up to professional athletes. This project, a daily devotional called “Beyond the Game”, has 365 entries from 365 different athletes.

Listen and learn about:

How an injury in his athletic career changed the trajectory of his life and career
What one athletic trainer meant to him as a player
Being a witness for Christ to athletes on a daily basis
How to perform "beyond the game"
Reminding ourselves that we perform, compete, and live for a higher purpose
Where/When/How everyone can get the devotional

Follow the Beyond the Game Instagram and X pages for updates on when this devotional will launch!

PODCAST MERCH IS NOW AVAILABLE!! Check out the official podcast store for Competing for Christ hats, shirts, hoodies and more. From every sale that we get, half of that money is going to Christian sports organizations that are making a difference for Christ in the world of sports. Use discount code CFC20 to get 20% off your order TODAY!

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Balance of Being Satisfied vs. Wanting More with Collegiate Football Player Keegan McCormack-Reamer

Ken Burke — Wed, 11 Oct 2023 00:00:00 -0400

For athletes, it’s so difficult to feel content when everyone and everything around you is striving to be better and wanting the next best thing. We have to ask ourselves where that line is, that fine balance between feeling like you have it all covered yet still push yourself to be the best person, the best Christ follower you can be.

Joining the show to talk about this important issue is collegiate football player Keegan McCormack-Reamer. Keegan brings a great perspective to this episode, as he struggles with finding that balance as well, yet relies on the Lord through this process in his football career. Through injuries, scholarship losses, and more trials, he hasn’t lost his faith and that is shown by his humility, determination, and grit.

Talking points for today:

Keegan's unique upbringing with 14 siblings
Chasing his dream of playing professional football
Difficulty finding the balance between being satisfied and wanting more
The unhealthy nature of athletes pushing their body too far
What God has taught him about trusting in His plan
The glorification of wanting more and more as an athlete

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Taking Advantage of an Opportunity with Crown College Head Baseball Coach Colt Sedbrook

Ken Burke — Wed, 04 Oct 2023 00:00:00 -0400

According to the Pew Research Center, about half of Americans believe that God determines what happens to them most or all of the time. Nearly eight-in-ten US adults think God or a higher power has protected them, and two-thirds of Americans say they have been rewarded by the Almighty.

For us as athletes, we have to ask ourselves if we believe that God has put us where we are right now for a particular purpose. God does give us opportunities as athletes to use our talents and abilities, and more importantly puts us into positions to share the Gospel by our words and actions.

Brand new head baseball coach at Crown College and former professional baseball player Colt Sedbrook joins us today to discuss his background as a coach, professional athlete, and collegiate athlete. We also go in depth on taking advantage of the opportunities that God puts in front of us and what it takes to use those chances to best serve those around us.

Listen to learn more about:

The most difficult level of sport for him - playing collegiately, playing professionally, or coaching
How the transition to a head baseball coach has drawn him closer to God
Finding a balance of feeling content in Jesus, yet wanting to excel and increase in your career and abilities
How to take advantage of each situation God puts you in
Trusting in Jesus through discouraging times
Advice he got as a player on relying on his abilities and God's plan

Subscribe to the show and share this episode!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Changing Children's Lives Through Sports with Breakaway Outreach Founder Jimmy Larche

Ken Burke — Wed, 27 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0400

In Matthew 19, Jesus says, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” How can sports be a way of reaching children for the sake of the Gospel? How can you show Jesus to children that may have experienced trauma in their lives?

Joining us today is Jimmy Larche, founder of Breakaway Outreach, an organization founded to empower young people with Gospel transformation and make disciples of Jesus Christ through nurturing communities of faith, hope, and love. What is so unbelievable about Jimmy’s story is that at one point in his life, he found himself in a juvenile detention center and didn’t know what the future held. Flash forward years later, and he helps youth affected by trauma find themselves and find Jesus all over the world through sports.

There are so many discussion points in today's show, including:

How someone visiting him in juvie changed the trajectory of his life
Why he felt called by God to start Breakaway Outreach
How he has seen sports and other ministries reach youth around the world
What Jesus meant when He said to have faith like a child
Steps taken to ensure love and care for children affected by hardship
Lessons he's learned from working in this ministry for years

Read more about Breakaway Outreach here!

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

How God Guided Somi Azubike to Kentucky Christian University Football

Ken Burke — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Today, we get to hear about Somi Azubike’s testimony, his journey through football, and how he has grown his faith in Christ throughout recent years. Somi plays collegiate football at Kentucky Christian University and you will notice that his testimony is real, and you get a real sense of what it’s like to be a collegiate football player nowadays by his story.

During our discussion, Somi shares what he has gone through in his personal life and his career as an athlete, and what it means to him to fully rely on God even when the unknown looms ahead. Listen as we talk about some in-depth topics, including:

Somi's faith journey to get to where he is today
How Jesus has impacted how Somi plays sports and lives his life
An unbelievable story on finding Kentucky Christian
Finding a balance of the emotions that come with sport
How he would change his journey up until this point
Reminding yourself what your identity is in

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Faith, Leadership, and Humility with Liberty University Track Athlete Will Jefferson

Ken Burke — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Today we are talking with Liberty University Track Athlete and Captain Will Jefferson on his journey and how God has guided him to get to where he is today. We dissect how Will has allowed Christ to be at the center of his life, how He has played a huge role in his life, and more on the life of a college recruit/athlete.

No matter what stands in Will's way, there are three things that stuck out throughout our discussion: faith, leadership, and humility. Will possesses all three of these characteristics, which is truly necessary as Christians in sport today. Throughout this conversation, learn more about Will and his journey as we talk about:

Will's unique path through the recruiting process
Advice he would give for every athlete that wants to play in college
Handling the pressure and anxiety that comes with being a Division 1 college athlete
Managing success
Prioritizing humility in a sports world that is anything but humble

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Being Passionate for Jesus Over Sports with UNPACKIN’ it Sports Ministries Social Media Director & Co-Host of The UNPACKIN’ it Podcast Luke Heaton

Ken Burke — Wed, 06 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Luke Heaton, UNPACKIN’ it Sports Ministries Social Media Director and the Co-Host of The UNPACKIN’ it Podcast, joins the show today to talk about how to have passion for Jesus over the sports that we can be consumed by. UNPACKIN’ it is a sports fan ministry that is such a great resource for anyone and everyone that follows Jesus and loves sport. This organization is one of a kind and helps sports fans all over become passionate for Jesus.

Our conversation talks a lot about how we as Christians and athletes can keep our love for sports in check, as this is such a hard topic to conquer for us surrounded by athletics. Listen and learn more about:

The goal of Unpackin’ it
How Christians can stick out in their fan bases
Loving sports as fans (or as athletes) and not letting it get in the way of our love for Jesus
Holding athletes to a higher standard in a bad way
What athletes can learn about keeping composure when fans may not

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

In The World, But Not of The World with Butler University Assistant Women's Basketball Coach Kristin Wodrich

Ken Burke — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0400

In John 15, Jesus states that if we were of the world, the world would love you as its own. But since Jesus has chosen us to be out of the world, we should be prepared for the world to hate us. Are we ready for those kinds of trials as Christians in sports? Are we prepared to have boos pouring on us just because we wear a cross around our neck or put on eye black that says John 3:16?

Today, we get to talk with Butler University Assistant Women’s Basketball Coach Kristin Wodrich on being in the world, but not being of the world. As Kristin has played Division 1 basketball, coached at a plethora of Division 1 and 2 institutions, she has dedicated her career to helping the next generations of athletes through basketball. It’s apparent that even though she’s been at secular schools, she always portrays the love of Jesus to her players.

Many topics are discussed today, including:

College being a make or break time for a lot of people's faith
Sticking out for Christ even in a fallen world
Being a Christian at a secular school vs being a secular person at a Christian school
Setting the example as a coach for athletes
How Christians are "built different" as leaders

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Last Chance for Christ with East Los Angeles College Head Basketball Coach John Mosley

Ken Burke — Wed, 23 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0400

When Head Basketball Coach John Mosley of East Los Angeles College was invited on the hit Netflix show "Last Chance U", he was hesitant. Although it would be a cool opportunity, it would be an all-access docuseries, filming every move he and his players made. Although he didn't want to, he knew it would be a way of showing people Christ through his life and coaching.

This show is dramatic, it’s inspiring, and it reveals the grittiness that the JUCO basketball life is. It shows the good and difficult moments for a coach and his players that come from different upbringings, most of them living a very hard life or making mistakes before coming to East LA. But Coach Mosley uses this time with them to not only coach them in basketball, but pour into their lives.

In our conversation today, Coach Mosley gives us a behind the scenes look into his coaching career, his philosophies, more about Last Chance U, and most importantly, his faith in Jesus Christ. He attributes where he’s at and all the success he’s had to Christ, and that is apparent throughout our talk. Listen as we discuss:

How Coach Mosley has been able to reach athletes through basketball for the sake of Christ
A mission trip to Brazil that changed the trajectory of his life
His personal experience as a Netflix star
Showing emotions as a Christian in sport
How he hopes "Last Chance U" helps his players and more
Glorifying God even when the spotlight is on us

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Sport Talks with Ken and Fabish 1

Ken Burke — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0400

This new segment features Ken and Fabish Mark (guest from Episode 16 and friend of the show!) discussing current and general sports events, topics, and issues. As we come from different countries, backgrounds, and perspectives, our faith and love for sports brings us together to have this unscripted, fun, and hilarious conversation.

In this wild conversation, we discuss:

What is the hardest sport?
Why is Saudi Arabia trying to take all athletes?
Should professional teams scout in East Africa?
Why do old soccer (football) players come to the US?
Why did Ken wrestle as a 12 year old?
How big was the hand that slapped Fabish?

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

How Mark Otieno Odhiambo Shows Christ Through Professional Track

Ken Burke — Wed, 16 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Mark Otieno Odhiambo is a Kenyan world class track athlete. As a national champion and ranked as one of the fastest people not only in Kenya but in the world, he has a relationship with God that is inspiring and firm. Throughout our conversation today, we talk about a lot of things that will make you think about God’s love, His faith, and how he continues to be with Mark even through difficult circumstances.

As we discuss what it looks like to show Christ through his performance and how he carries himself, Mark stays humble and gives insight into picking up his cross daily to follow God. Listen and learn more about:

Keeping Christ at the center of your life and athletic career
How the sports culture in Kenya shaped the athlete that Mark is today
Why he chose to compete in track and field professionally
Making those around you better through your actions and words
Is it more difficult to spread the Gospel as a professional athlete?

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Finding Purpose in Sports with Hall of Fame Basketball Coach and Nations of Coaches Director Mike Lightfoot

Ken Burke — Wed, 09 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0400

On today’s episode, we are talking to Hall of Fame Basketball Coach and Nations of Coaches Director Mike Lightfoot about finding purpose in sports. From 1987 to 2017, he was the head basketball coach at Bethel University, leading the Pilots to 794 wins, 3x NAIA Division II National Championships, 4x NCCAA National Championships, 11x NCCAA Regional Championships, 18x Mid Central Conference/Crossroads League Championships. As a nine-time National Coach of the Year and being inducted into six different Hall of Fames, he is considered one of the greatest basketball coaches of all time.

Coach Lightfoot puts Christ above every single accomplishment that he received as a basketball coach. He is passionate about finding purpose through Christ, rather than in sports. Today, we sit down with him and talk about his journey, how he made his athletes better on and off the court, and much more.

Topics for today's episode:

How he managed to keep every accomplishment in perspective
Focusing on the present instead of the future or the past
How he conveyed to his players that their purpose should be more than basketball in life
Staying grounded through the highs and lows of life
How Nation of Coaches makes an impact on coaches throughout the country

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Giving God the Reins of Your Life with Former NFL and Collegiate Football Coach Mark Ridgley

Ken Burke — Wed, 02 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0400

If I asked you if you’ve given God full control over your life, would you be able to say yes?

On this episode of the Competing for Christ Podcast, we are talking with Mark Ridgley, former NFL and collegiate football coach. Mark has coached at a couple of different places, but most recently coached with the Los Angeles Chargers for a number of years. As we talk with Mark about his coaching career and his life as a Christian in sports, we focus today on giving God the reins of our lives. This is difficult for everyone in this world, as most of us like to keep control over what goes on in our world.

Jesus says in the book of John that he is the vine and we are the branches, meaning that we must give Him control so that we can have life and abide in Him. Here are some topics for our conversation today:

How Christ has affected Mark's life and his career in sports
His love for coaching football and what he experienced in the NFL
What he has learned about giving God the reins
The struggle between contentment and wanting more
Prioritizing Christ in a fast-paced world

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Need encouragement or want to come on the show?

Text me: (904) 463-5917

Email me: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Playing Beyond Your Comfort Zone with Olympic Field Hockey Athlete Keenan Horne

Ken Burke — Wed, 26 Jul 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Stepping out of our comfort zones is one of the most difficult things to do, not just in sports but in life. However, pushing ourselves to be uncomfortable and be in hard situations proves time and time again that something good usually comes out of them. This doesn’t mean you have to go halfway around the world to get uncomfortable, you can do this right now wherever you find yourself.

Keenan Horne is a South African field hockey player and an attorney. He has competed in the Olympics, numerous championships, and is currently playing professionally in France. Today we get to talk to him about what it means to step out of our comfort zones as Christians in sport, and he gives excellent input into how he has used this topic to get to where he is today as an athlete and in his life. Listen today as we discuss:

How he stays focused on Jesus while playing professional sports, practicing law, and recently getting engaged
Staying connected with Christ through busy times
Being able to take leaps of faith in order to help our walk with Christ and our careers
The most uncomfortable situation he has found himself in
His thoughts on if he stayed complacent throughout his life

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Make sure to subscribe and follow the show!

Conquering Mental Hurdles with Founder of Athletic Fortitude & Former Collegiate Football Player Colin Jonov

Ken Burke — Wed, 19 Jul 2023 00:00:00 -0400

If you are an athlete, more likely than not you will face mental barriers, mental hurdles, and mental warfare during your time in sports. As a Christian in the athletic world, how can we face these trials through Christ? What do we do to stop the stigma surrounding getting help for your mental health? How can we stop these things before they go too far?

Founder of Athletic Fortitude and former Division 1 football player Colin Jonov joins the podcast today to talk about conquering mental hurdles that we face as athletes. As someone who struggled with this during and following his playing days, Colin brings a wealth of knowledge into this conversation that you are not going to want to miss!

Topics for today's discussion:

Lessons he learned from his Division 1 and professional playing career
How to break the stigma surrounding mental health in athletics
What athletes can do in advance to not let mental hurdles get in the way
How people should view athletes
His vision for helping athletes through Athletic Fortitude

Check out Athletic Fortitude: https://www.athleticfortitude.com/

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Make sure to subscribe and follow the show!

God vs Satan: How Do They Use Sports?

Ken Burke — Wed, 12 Jul 2023 00:00:00 -0400

When the Fall occurred in this world, everything in the past, present, and future was affected by that first sin. In sports, we usually don't think about this fact, even though sin affects sports every day. Throughout the history of sports, we have seen ways that God uses them to spread His Gospel, while Satan has tried anything to create hate, destruction, and hardships in them.

On today's episode, we discuss how God and Satan use athletics and the people in them. This unique and difficult topic should teach listeners ways in which they can appreciate how Christ uses sports, while also being on guard against Satan as he tries to harm our experiences. No matter if you're playing, watching, cheering, or coaching, you can see them played out in some way.

Listen to this episode to find out three ways that God uses sports to show His glory, and three ways that Satan uses athletics to cause harm (and how to combat that harm). Each of these are crucial to know in our time as Christian athletes.

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Make sure to subscribe and follow the show!

Follow along on social media @ Competing for Christ Podcast!

Connecting with Christ Through Sports with Robert Bass - Author, Pastor, Speaker, and Former Athlete

Ken Burke — Wed, 05 Jul 2023 00:00:00 -0400

One of the age old questions in Christianity is how do you connect with Christ and maintain that relationship. Today, we discuss how we can do this in sports and how we as athletes can learn to prioritize that connection over everything that comes with being an athlete.

Author, pastor, speaker, and former athlete Robert Bass joins the show today to talk about this interesting topic, and what he has learned from his time as an athlete. Robert has had a unique journey in becoming a pastor, and he explains his journey a little bit in our conversation today. We also get to talk about his new book, Hidden Fruit: Receive All That God Has For You. This book is not just for athletes, but is a great resource for everyone that wants to connect with Christ in this life.

Topics for this discussion:

How to handle frustration and failure in sports
What Robert would do differently as an athlete
Feeling God while watching, playing, and practicing sports
Are athletes made specifically to play sports
Prioritizing peace and rest in Jesus
“You don’t need to sacrifice when Jesus has already done that for you”

Link for Robert's new book: https://hiddenfruitbook.com/

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Make sure to subscribe and follow the show!

Winning Your Days with Former UNC Football Player, Founder of Win Your Days, and Certified High Performance Coach Jason Palmisano

Ken Burke — Wed, 28 Jun 2023 00:00:00 -0400

As athletes, we love to win. It’s in our blood. Whenever we step onto the court or on the field, we should expect to win because that’s why we play. But after we’re finished, what happens to that winning mindset? Should we just not expect to win anymore?

Today we get to talk with Jason Palmisano, founder of Win Your Days, Certified High Performance Coach, and former UNC Football Player. In short, Jason helps men specifically get out of bad situations and get control of their lives by using many different helpful ways, including relating our lives to sports! During our discussion today, you will see two things right off the bat: how motivating Jason is, and how passionate he is about winning in this life.

Topics for today's episode:

How Jason prioritized his faith as a Division 1 athlete
Why he started Win Your Days
Incorporating sports in becoming leaders in life
Getting out of hard circumstances in sports and in life
Relating spiritual health to physical and mental health

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Make sure to subscribe and follow the show!

From Playing College Football to Making Christian Films with Pastor and Filmmaker Tyler Sansom

Ken Burke — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 00:00:00 -0400

As an athlete growing up, he struggled with identity issues like so many of us do in sports. As a college football player, he suffered a serious injury that changed the course of his experience in college. Now as a pastor, he leads a congregation of believers close to Louisville, Kentucky, and has a passion for filmmaking. So much so that he directs Christian movies that thousands, if not millions of people have seen, as a way of sharing the Gospel as part of their church outreach.

Today we talk with Tyler Sansom, lead pastor for First Capital Christian Church/Church Anywhere and a filmmaker for First Capital Films. As a former collegiate football player, he brings a great perspective on showing Christ through athletics and not letting sports overtake your identity. Throughout the conversation we discuss a variety of topics, including:

His relationship with sports growing up
The importance of a good coach in athletes' lives
Why he started making Christian films
The true story behind his new Christian sports film "I Can"
How God has used sports to reach others around him

Go watch the "I Can" trailer: https://fb.watch/lfjmud53tm/

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Make sure to subscribe and follow the show!

Protecting Christ’s Brand with Houston Christian University Head Football Coach Braxton Harris

Ken Burke — Wed, 14 Jun 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Today we’re talking with Coach Braxton Harris, Head Football Coach at Houston Christian University. As the new head coach of the Huskies, Coach Harris brings a fresh perspective to this conversation and a new view of culture to the HCU program.

In this interview, we’re discussing what it means to protect Christ’s brand, even in a world full of individualism, NIL money, and getting to the top no matter what. How do we show Christ through our actions, through our words, and through our play? Can we turn away from things of this world for what Christ calls us to? We discuss these questions today, along with:

How Coach Harris is changing the culture of the HCU football program
What protecting the brand of Christ looks like
How to show the love of Christ through sports
Verses and mottos that Coach Harris lives by
Winning as a Christian in sports

New Segment:

How do you see God in sports today? Send us an email or DM on social media describing how you see Christ in the sports you watch and play for a shoutout in the next episode!

Email: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Instagram: @competingforchristpodcast

Facebook: @Competing for Christ Podcast

Twitter: @cfchristpod

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Make sure to subscribe and follow the show!

Using Sports for Outreach and Friendship with Sports Ministry Enthusiast and Professional Speaker Duane Eger

Ken Burke — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Sports has a special place in so many of our hearts. We love the competitiveness, adrenaline, and passion that comes out of sports, but something that is undermined is how sports can be used for outreach, for finding friends (even a family), and the good that comes from playing with people that you may never meet otherwise.

Today, we’re talking about how we as Christian athletes can use the sports that we play and watch as a way of reaching out to people and using sports to relate with people within your community. Sports Ministry Enthusiast and Professional Speaker Duane Eger joins the show to talk about this intriguing, yet important topic, what he’s learned about friendship through playing sports, and being inviting and inclusive with all who play sports.

Listen as we discuss:

Maintaining a Christian friendship mindset in the sports that we watch and play
An inspirational story of friendship found in sports from Jack Twyman and Maurice Stokes
Why he has a passion for sports ministry and outreach
Sports being a way of reaching others of different values or beliefs
How athletes can step out of their comfort zone to be inclusive to anyone that they meet in sports

New Segment:

How do you see God in sports today? Send us an email or DM on social media describing how you see Christ in the sports you watch and play for a shoutout in the next episode!

Email: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Instagram: @competingforchristpodcast

Facebook: @Competing for Christ Podcast

Twitter: @cfchristpod

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Make sure to subscribe and follow the show!

On a Mission with Entrepreneur, Professional Speaker, and Powerlifter Kelsey Lensman

Ken Burke — Wed, 31 May 2023 00:00:00 -0400

On this episode, Kelsey Lensman, entrepreneur, sports medicine specialist, sought-after speaker, and powerlifter joins the show to talk about empowering women and a special mission that she is about to embark on. She has a passion for physical fitness, highlighting what women can do, all while showing Christ through her actions.

This year, Kelsey is doing something called Mission48, in which she is completing 48 fitness competitions in 48 days in 48 states bringing awareness to Ruling Our Experiences (AKA ROX), a non-profit that develops confident girls who control their own relationships, experiences, decisions, and futures.

Today, we discuss:

Why Kelsey founded EmpowHER Fitness
Advice for women about staying true to who they are
Her calling to serve women on Mission48
Pushing through adversity when things look bleak
Her passion for helping women and girls across the nation
How she incorporates her mission as a Christian into her mission for women

Check out Ruling Our Experiences (ROX)!

Learn more about Kelsey and Mission48 here!

New Segment:

How do you see God in sports today? Send us an email or DM on social media describing how you see Christ in the sports you watch and play for a shoutout in the next episode!

Email: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Instagram: @competingforchristpodcast

Facebook: @Competing for Christ Podcast

Twitter: @cfchristpod

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Make sure to subscribe and follow the show!

Applying 1 Timothy 4:12 to Athletics with Vice President of Sports at Christian Sports International Matt Davis

Ken Burke — Wed, 24 May 2023 00:00:00 -0400

1 Timothy 4:12 says “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.” For Christian athletes and coaches, what can we learn from this verse? How can we apply this to everything that we do, no matter what age we are?

Matt Davis, Vice President of Sports at Christian Sports International, joins the show to talk about this verse and how we can apply this and related topics to the sports that we love. Matt has so much experience in sports outreach and reaching youth through sports, and it was apparent throughout our conversation how passionate he is about this topic and so much more.

Listen and learn as we discuss:

How 1 Timothy 4:12 is the cornerstone of the work that CSI does
Be a leader no matter your age, role, or status on a team
Trusting in others around you
How to not get discouraged in hard situations
“Just because we know Jesus doesn’t mean we’re fine with losing.”

New Segment:

How do you see God in sports today? Send us an email or DM on social media describing how you see Christ in the sports you watch and play for a shoutout in the next episode!

Email: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Instagram: @competingforchristpodcast

Facebook: @Competing for Christ Podcast

Twitter: @cfchristpod

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Make sure to subscribe and follow the show!

Turning Your Failures Into Lessons with Former USC and Professional Track Athlete Candice Davis Price

Ken Burke — Wed, 17 May 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Failure is something that no one is good at. You aren't supposed to like it, you actually hate it when it happens, but in actuality, it may help you in the long run. No matter what sport you play, you're going to fail. The only dependency is how you react to it.

Former USC and professional track athlete and World Championship medalist Candice Davis-Price comes on today to talk about turning our failures into lessons, what she’s learned about failure in her life, and what she recommends to all athletes when it comes to failure. It's so clear throughout the conversation how motivating and driven Candice is, and our conversation touches on:

How her biggest failure positively impacted her
Turning defeat into learning moments
Using failure to grow closer to God and those around you
Her continued love for coaching and running
Psalm 73: even though our flesh and hearts may fail, God always perseveres

New Segment:

How do you see God in sports today? Send us an email or DM on social media describing how you see Christ in the sports you watch and play for a shoutout in the next episode!

Email: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Instagram: @competingforchristpodcast

Facebook: @Competing for Christ Podcast

Twitter: @cfchristpod

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Make sure to subscribe/follow the show!

Looking at Trials with Joy with Youth Minister and Former Collegiate Baseball Player Bart Croasmun

Ken Burke — Wed, 10 May 2023 00:00:00 -0400

James 1: 2-4 states that when we face trials, we should look at them with joy because of the perseverance that they produce. In sports, we may face injuries, losses, not playing, and more. The Bible says that we must look at these things with joy, no matter how hard they may be, and use them to make you better as a person and as an athlete.

In this episode, Bart Croasmun, Youth Minister and Former Collegiate Baseball Player, comes on the show to talk about looking at trials with joy. Bart has faced significant trials and hardships in his life, and throughout the conversation it's apparent how faithful he has remained.

Some main topics that we discuss:

Trials during his collegiate baseball career and into his 20's
How athletes can find joy in the midst of hardships
Suggestions for those questioning God's plan for their lives
Relying on Jesus in athletics
How he encourages the next generation to remain steadfast

New Segment:

How do you see God in sports today? Send us an email or DM on social media describing how you see Christ in the sports you watch and play for a shoutout in the next episode!

Email: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Instagram: @competingforchristpodcast

Facebook: @Competing for Christ Podcast

Twitter: @cfchristpod

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Make sure to subscribe and follow the show!

Advice for High School Christian Athletes with Gatorade Ohio Boys’ Basketball Player of the Year George Washington III

Ken Burke — Wed, 03 May 2023 00:00:00 -0400

On this episode, George Washington III, University of Michigan basketball commit and 2023 Ohio Gatorade Boys' Basketball Player of the Year, comes on the show to talk about his high school experience and what it's like being a Christian as a top basketball athlete.

Throughout our conversation, George shows humility and the love that he has for Jesus on and off the court. Listen as we discuss:

Advice that he has for high schoolers across the nation
How he lives out his faith while playing
What fuels his love and passion for sports
How he plans to give back to others at Michigan
Why family is so important for him

New Segment:

How do you see God in sports today? Send us an email or DM on social media describing how you see Christ in the sports you watch and play for a shoutout in the next episode!

Email: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Instagram: @competingforchristpodcast

Facebook: @Competing for Christ Podcast

Twitter: @cfchristpod

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Make sure to subscribe and follow the show!

Trusting in God From the MLB to Prison with Former MLB Player, Author, and Coach Brandon Puffer

Ken Burke — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Author, coach, and former MLB player Brandon Puffer joins the show today to discuss what it means to him to fully trust in Jesus in this life. Brandon has a unique story, and within that story there are a lot of trials that he’s faced, and a lot of successes that he’s had. One of those trials came from making a mistake, getting arrested, and serving three and a half years in prison.

In his new book “From the Bullpen to the State Pen”, Brandon goes in depth on his life, his athletic career, and the lessons he learned in prison. Throughout our conversation, we discuss how he has maintained a trust in Jesus no matter what situation he was in and encourages others through his testimony.

Some main topics we touch on:

His experiences as a professional baseball player
How prison changed Brandon
The importance of putting our full trust in Christ
What Brandon has learned about grace in his journey
Maintaining a positive, humble mindset no matter what

New Segment:

How do you see God in sports today? Send us an email or DM on social media describing how you see Christ in the sports you watch and play for a shoutout in the next episode!

Email: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Instagram: @competingforchristpodcast

Facebook: @Competing for Christ Podcast

Twitter: @cfchristpod

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Go get From the Bullpen to the State Pen NOW!

Make sure to subscribe and follow the show!

Christianity in College Athletics with Athletes in Action Indianapolis Team Leader Matt Williams

Ken Burke — Wed, 19 Apr 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Being a Christian in this world is never an easy task. As a college athlete, living out your Christians beliefs on the field, classroom, and life can be even harder. With so many different things coming at college students nowadays, how does one rely on Jesus and fellow believers to go against the crowd?

Matt Williams, Clemson graduate and Athletes in Action Indianapolis Team Leader, joins the show today to talk about what it means to live out your faith as a college athlete. As Matt comes in with a great testimony and a love for Jesus, family, and sports, he works with college students every day and his knowledge on this subject is apparent in this conversation.

Throughout our chat, Matt gives great advice for all Christian college athletes out there, including:

How Jesus can use ANYONE to spread the Gospel
What college athletes can do to live out their faith on their teams
Shifting our gaze to Christ
Advice for freshman athletes
How athletes can maintain friendships, community, prayer life, and more in college

New Segment:

How do you see God in sports today? Send us an email or DM on social media describing how you see Christ in the sports you watch and play for a shoutout in the next episode!

Email: competingforchristpodcast@gmail.com

Instagram: @competingforchristpodcast

Facebook: @Competing for Christ Podcast

Twitter: @cfchristpod

https://www.competingforchristpodcast.com/

Make sure to subscribe and follow the show!

Healthy vs. Unhealthy Obsession in Sports with Podcast Host and Founder/CEO of The Unscripted Collective Aaron Conrad

Ken Burke — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 00:00:00 -0400

It's easy in a world full of idolatry, obsessiveness, and distractions to get caught up in wanting more and more, especially as an athlete or fan. While 1 Corinthians 10 states that we must flee from idolatry, we may not even realize that we idolize sports. What does it look like to have a "healthy obsession" in sports? How do we know when our relationship with sports is "unhealthy"?

On this episode, Aaron Conrad, podcast host and founder/CEO of The Unscripted Collective, joins the show to discuss this interesting topic, along with his work in sports, business, and podcasting. Throughout the conversation, Aaron shows the love of Christ through his words and actions, all while giving helpful advice for every fan and player on understanding passion in sports.

Some key discussion points on today's show:

Aaron's passion for sports
Applying sports ideas and practices into the world of business
Unique stories of how sports have created/broken down barriers
How athletes specifically can maintain a healthy obsession with sports
Why humans get so obsessed with sports
Keeping sports, like most other things in this world, in perspective

Go check out The Unscripted Collective and the Unscripted Podcast!

Check out our NEW website!

Make sure to subscribe and follow the show!

How God Called Ethan Hoeft From Running Track to Selling Pet Track

Ken Burke — Wed, 05 Apr 2023 00:00:00 -0400

You have never heard of what is about to be talked about on this podcast, but you will eventually, especially if you run track. Ethan Hoeft, former track athlete at Purdue University and Co-Founder of Pet Track, comes on the show to talk about how God called him away from running track competitively to selling track material as a toy.

This episode is one of a kind. I would have never thought that I would be doing a podcast about a small toy for athletes, but here we are! Obviously, though, the toy is not the only thing we talk about. Throughout our discussion, it was so obvious to me how faithful Ethan has been to Christ, even while battling injuries in his time at Purdue, traveling the world spreading the Gospel, and now running a business that sells track material as a toy called Tracky.

Ethan and I got to spend time together talking about:

Why he started Pet Track
His background in athletics and the trials he faced in them
How his passion for track and field fuels what he does
Using the platform and the gifts God has provided to glorify Him
Reaching people through sports and business for the Gospel

Go get a Pet Track NOW!

Check out our NEW website!

Make sure to subscribe and follow the show!

Following God's Plan for Our Lives with Centenary College Head Volleyball Coach and Writer Ashley McDonough-Turnipseed

Ken Burke — Wed, 29 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0400

On today's episode, Ashley McDonough-Turnipseed, Centenary College head volleyball coach, writer for coachedbychrist.com, and divemaster joins the show to discuss what it means to follow God's plan for our lives.

Whether we realize it or not, God has a plan for our lives. While it's imperative that we follow His word and try to replicate Christ as much as we can, how can we know if we're actually pursuing/going towards what God has planned for us? In today's episode, that's exactly what we try to discover while talking about a variety of topics, such as Ashley's conversion from agnosticism to Christianity, her battle with her mental and physical health, and why she continues to write articles on her website for athletes, coaches, and anyone that is a Christian in today’s sports culture.

Listen now as we discuss:

Why she started coachedbychrist.com
Going from nonprofit work to coaching collegiate volleyball
The importance of talking about mental health
Responsibility of seeking help for mental wellness
"Faith is the first step in success"

Check out the Ashley's website and helpful content for everyone involved in sports!

Check out our NEW website!

Make sure to subscribe and follow the show!

Be More Than An Athlete with Podcast Host and Former Collegiate Tennis Player Grace Ball

Ken Burke — Wed, 22 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0400

It’s 2018 and LeBron James is in the news for saying he is more than an athlete. We may not know if he had Christian implications when he said that, but what we do know is that one person saw that interview and was inspired to start her own podcast, based off of that statement!

Grace Ball, host of the More Than An Athlete Podcast, joins the show today to talk about what it means to be more than an athlete for Christ. Grace continuously gives resources and opportunities to athletes all over, and emphasizes the need to place our identity in Christ rather than in athletics.

Throughout our conversation, listen out for:

Why she started the podcast
Being more than an athlete in her life
Advice she gives for tennis players and athletes across the world
How to change our mindset from self-centered to Christ-centered
What she has learned about letting Jesus into every area of her life, including in sports

Check out the More Than an Athlete Podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts!

Check out our NEW website!

Make sure to subscribe and follow the show!

How a Traumatic Brain Injury Changed Max McCalley’s Life and Athletic Career

Ken Burke — Wed, 15 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Max McCalley was getting recruited out of high school to play quarterback at the Division 1 level. As a Christian athlete, he felt like this was what God was calling him to. He and a lot of his teammates were on fire for Jesus, something that is so rare in today's high school sports culture. But all that changed in one day when Max suffered a traumatic brain injury off of the football field, leaving him unable to play the game he loved. The following months and years to come would be a challenge for Max.

On today's episode, we sit down with Max to talk about his journey from high school football prospect to not being able to remember how to read or write. All throughout his remarkable comeback though, it was clear through our conversation that he never lost hope in Jesus.

Throughout the conversation, listen out for:

Max's story of trials, healing, and recovery
The role of sports in Max's life
His view of God and life after this journey
Having faith and trust in Christ even when all hope seems lost
How Max has battled back to become a high school football coach, in ministry, and training for an Ironman triathlon

Check out our NEW website!

Make sure to subscribe and follow the show!

Stay Motivated as a Christian Athlete with Former MLB Player and Current Analyst Michael "The Fort" McKenry

Ken Burke — Wed, 08 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Motivation can be easy for some and hard for others. No matter what kind of person you are, at some point you may want to give up or even feel emotions like depression or laziness. As Christian athletes, what does God call us to when it comes to motivation? How do professionals stay so motivated in their seasons? On this episode, that's exactly what we seek to find out.

Former MLB player and current MLB analyst Michael "The Fort" McKenry joins the podcast to discuss what he did to stay motivated throughout his career, and what advice he would give to current athletes that seek motivation. While playing for teams like the Pittsburgh Pirates and the Colorado Rockies, Michael gave it his all every time he stepped on the field. His grit, hard work, and determination made him into the player he was, and his love for Jesus has been evident in his life since high school. Throughout his career in the MLB and years leading up to it, Michael describes what it means to keep the drive for success, even through personal trials.

Listen today as discuss:

How Michael got "The Fort" nickname
What he contributes his success to
How athletes can stay motivated physically, mentally, and spiritually
Finding motivation in the darkest of times
Preparing ourselves for hardships and trials as Christians

Check out our NEW website!

Make sure to subscribe and follow the show!

Discipling the Next Generation of Athletes with Youth Sports Coach and Radio Show Host Jason Lupo

Ken Burke — Wed, 01 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0400

You don't have to be a coach, parent, or official to disciple and teach the generation coming after you through sports. Although adults have a responsibility in athletics for that, as athletes, we have a prime opportunity to show how to act as a Christian athlete to the next generation of players by what we do, how we do it, and how we carry ourselves as Christians in sport.

On this episode, Jason Lupo, founder of Full Armour Sports, youth sports coach, and radio show/podcast host for Faith Family Fitness in Colorado joins the show today to talk about how he has lead athletes in sport since he was in high school. As he strives to develop athletes in a loving environment, building and growing the next wave of sport lovers is always at the forefront of his mind.

Throughout the conversation, it's apparent that Jason was born to be involved in sports, as we discuss:

How his radio show/podcast Faith Family Fitness started and how it continues to provide guidance for athletes and others in our world
The hard topics that athletes must face in today's sports
How he has been able to develop, nurture, and help the next generation of athletes
Paul's friendships with Barnabas and Timothy
Ways in which sports break down walls that other things can't

Check out Full Armour Sports!

Listen to Faith Family Fitness now!

Check out our NEW website!

Make sure to subscribe and follow the show!

How to be a Christian Fan

Ken Burke — Wed, 22 Feb 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Fandom in sports can be one of the worst and best things about sports as a whole. As people come together to celebrate the success and wins of their favorite teams, we can also see (on the flip side of that) the negative and harmful things that come into play, like racism, death threats, and more.

On today's episode, we discuss what it means to be a Christian FAN, instead of what it means to be a Christian athlete. Even still, if you're an athlete, you're probably a fan of one athlete, team, or organization so this episode should hit home for everyone that listens.

As we discuss what it means to be a fan of sport as a Christian, we talk about topics like:

What being a fan truly means
Positive and negative examples of sports fandom
Taking a Romans 12 approach to watching sports
Tips for reshaping your view as a lover of sports
The one thing we need to emphasize as Christian fans

Check out our NEW website!

Make sure to subscribe and follow the show!

Equipping the Church, Chaplains, and Athletes with CEDE Sports Founder & CEO Bob Dyar

Ken Burke — Wed, 15 Feb 2023 00:00:00 -0400

What is the role of local believers of a church in the sports context, if any? Is that different than the role of a sports chaplain? Today, we dive into a topic that isn't touched on enough: appropriately equipping the local church and chaplains on sports teams, and what athletes can learn from each of these things.

CEDE Sports founder and CEO Bob Dyar joins the show to talk about this intriguing topic, and also discuss the vision/background of CEDE Sports as an international sports ministry organization that "seeks to impact people of sport through churches and chaplaincy". Throughout the conversation, listen out for these topics:

From earning a computer science degree to going around the world preaching the Gospel through sports
How/Why CEDE Sports was founded
Bob's work in NASCAR as a chaplain (and a pretty cool story about Dale Earnhardt)
Utilizing the local church and chaplains as an athlete
The role of local believers in serving athletes

Learn more about CEDE Sports!

Check out our NEW website!

Make sure to subscribe and follow the show!

Finding God in Sports with Author and Ultra Runner Stephanie Burdette

Ken Burke — Wed, 08 Feb 2023 00:00:00 -0400

On this episode, author, ultra runner, certified strength and conditioning specialist/massage therapist, and former coach Stephanie Burdette comes on to talk about her new book For All the Glory: Finding God in Sports and what she has learned in her experiences in sports. Throughout the book and conversation, Stephanie gives great insight into the mind of an athlete and the power of God in athletics.

Stephanie shares thoughts she had as a Christian athlete and also now as an ultramarathon runner and former coach. This episode brings up a lot of different topics that are highlighted in the book too, like:

What inspired Stephanie to write For All the Glory
What it's like running 100 mile races
Comparison is the thief of joy
Injuries that reshape your mindset
Finding God in sports through negativity
God winning against fear

Go get For All the Glory: Finding God in Sports on Amazon and learn more about her journey, her faith, and her passion for Christian athletics!

Check out our NEW website!

Make sure to subscribe and follow the show!

Sociology of Sport with Covenant College Sociology Professor Dr. Matthew Vos

Ken Burke — Wed, 01 Feb 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Have you ever thought about sports from a sociological perspective? Probably not, as I didn’t think about it until I took a course at Covenant College entitled Sociology of Sport! This class completely challenged me as an athlete, and at times, it made me resent the professor because of what he was saying about the sports I loved to watch and play!

But this course taught me how to look at sports from an entirely different lens, and shifted my gaze to see sports not as an idol in my life, but something that I love to do and glorify God through. The sociology of sport is something that we may never talk about as athletes, but it's worth having the conversation as it may help you as a Christian athlete.

Dr. Matthew Vos, Professor of Sociology and Department Chair at Covenant College, comes on the show today to discuss how we can take a sociological perspective into athletics. Listen out for these key topics:

The relationship between sociology and sport
Harms of the 2022 FIFA World Cup
"Sports build character"
Pitfalls of youth athletics
The good and bad sides of competition
Relating the sports that we love to our relationship with Christ

Check out our NEW website!

Make sure to subscribe and follow the show!

Sharing the Gospel in Sports with Former Indianapolis Colts Chaplain and Pastor Ken Johnson

Ken Burke — Wed, 25 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Our biggest job as Christians in sport is to share the good news of the Gospel. Everything else is secondary compared to that. 2 Corinthians 5: 20 says, "We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God." With this in mind, it's our duty to live out the Gospel, even (especially) as we participate in athletics.

Pastor Ken Johnson joins the show today to talk about ways we as Christians can practically share and spread the Gospel to teammates, opponents, and anyone that watches us play. Pastor Ken is a former Indianapolis Colts Chaplain, Police Officer, Reality TV Show Host, and Recording Artist. With so much life experience and trials throughout his life, he consistently shows the Gospel through his words and actions.

During the conversation, listen out for key topics, such as:

Pastor Ken's unique journey and life
His work with the Super Bowl winning Indianapolis Colts and his admiration for Tony Dungy
How he relates Christ to others and meets them where they are
The importance of athletes controlling their actions and words
Steps to take in order to spread the Gospel in sports

Check out our NEW website!

Make sure to follow the show!

Honor God with Your Body with Personal Trainer and Florida Coach of the Year Rodney Keller

Ken Burke — Wed, 18 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0400

The health and wellness profession can be scary, deceitful, and at times dishonest. God calls us to use the bodies He has given us for His glory, but where can we start? Why should we train, practice, exercise, and lift? What does it even mean to "steward" our bodies for the kingdom of God?

On this episode, we invite personal trainer and coach Rodney Keller BACK on (that's right, our FIRST repeat guest ever!) to have a conversation about using our bodies to bring God glory. Since the last time we talked with Coach Keller, God has been working in his life through helping people get healthier while ramping up his personal training profession and he was even voted the 2022 Florida Coach of the Year!

As Rodney and Ken talk about what it means to use our bodies for God, some topics that come up include:

The relationship of wanting to look/feel good vs. becoming obsessed with how you look
Seeing our bodies as temples
The importance of recovery
How mental health helps your physical health
Where beginners can start on their health and wellness journey

For health and wellness tips, check out Coach Rodney Keller on Instagram!

Check out our NEW website!

Make sure to follow the show!

When Injuries Plague Your Athletic Experience with Author, Sports Psychologist, and Speaker Ray Santiago

Ken Burke — Wed, 11 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0400

So many things can prevent athletes from playing the sports that they are passionate about, but there is one thing that most athletes have faced throughout their time on the field or court: injuries. No matter how long you're out of play, it can be an emotional and difficult process when you have to watch instead of participate.

The book Playing on High Ground by Ray Santiago highlights this theme and gives readers advice and Biblical intelligence that can aid in handling an ailment like an injury. That's why we invited on Ray, author, sports psychologist, and founder of Renewed Mind Performance for a conversation on how athletes can face injuries with God and use the Bible to find peace, comfort, and direction.

Throughout the conversation, listen out for topics such as:

“If God loves us so much, why does He allow bad things to happen like injuries?”
The need for psychologists within the sports world
The mental toughness of Jesus Christ
How athletes can remain patient when they do get injured

Go buy Playing on High Ground and other books by Ray!

Check out Renewed Mind Performance and learn more about Ray!

View our NEW website!

Make sure to follow the show!

Top 10 Mistakes I Made as an Athlete

Ken Burke — Wed, 04 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Every athlete struggles with certain things while playing sports. As Christian athletes, it's crucial to discuss these issues and learn from others on how to combat them. How can we use those things to spread the Gospel? Can we take what we learn and use it to glorify God?

Today we discuss the top 10 mistakes I made as an athlete throughout my career. While these are not the only things that I struggled with during my time playing sports, they are major things that came up frequently.

The list (listen to find out what order they're in):

Misinterpreting the meaning of injuries
Trying to prove others wrong
Not reaching out to younger/older players
Putting opponents and teammates down
Making sports who I am
Preparing physically and not mentally
Putting too much pressure on myself
Pushing my body too far
Not letting Jesus onto the field with me
Not enjoying the opportunities I was given throughout my career

Make sure to follow the show!

Check out our NEW website: https://www.podpage.com/competingforchristpodcast/

Be All In! with All In Sports Outreach Co-Founder and Podcast Host Stewart Hardy

Ken Burke — Wed, 21 Dec 2022 00:00:00 -0400

On today's episode, All In Sports Outreach co-founder and podcast host Stewart Hardy joins the show to discuss what it means to be "all in" for our teams, and more importantly for Christ.

All In Sports Outreach was founded to encourage coaches, athletes, and communities with the hope and power of Jesus Christ. Through athletics, Stewart and team have worked four 7+ years in creating spaces for athletes to hear the gospel while playing sports.

Listen as Stewart and Ken discuss many hard-hitting topics like:

The conversation between a couple of friends that started All In Sports Outreach
How the book of Proverbs can be used by athletes all over as a guidebook through life
Ways in which to relate the gospel to coaches, athletes, fans, and others who may not know Christ in a sports setting
The biggest issue in sports today

Make sure to follow the show!

Check out our NEW website: https://www.podpage.com/competingforchristpodcast/

Servant Leadership with Professional Soccer Player Jonathan Ricketts

Ken Burke — Wed, 14 Dec 2022 00:00:00 -0400

Servant leadership is defined as, "a leadership philosophy in which the goal of the leader is to serve. This is different from traditional leadership where the leader's main focus is the thriving of their company or organization."

As followers of Jesus that love to play sports, we are called to not only serve Christ, but serve our teammates, our coaches, our opponents, and pretty much anyone we come in contact with. We must be different kinds of leaders.

That is why TODAY, professional soccer player Jonathan Ricketts comes on the show to discuss what it means to be a servant leader! Jonathan has played with teams like Chattanooga FC, the Chattanooga Red Wolves, and is currently on Rio Grande Valley FC. As a Christian professional athlete, he has been able to use his platform to glorify God and has worked hard to get to where he is today. Throughout the conversation, listen as Jonathan and Ken discuss:

What it means to be a servant leader in sports
Practical examples of serving teammates, coaches, teammates, and more
How Jonathan has used this mindset to guide him in his pro career
How athletes can emphasize servant leadership EVEN when their team is losing or they aren't satisfied with their role on the team

Make sure to follow the show!

Check out our NEW website: https://www.podpage.com/competingforchristpodcast/

Breaking Down Barriers Through Sports with TCU Football Chaplain Chauncey Franks

Ken Burke — Wed, 07 Dec 2022 00:00:00 -0400

Sports are one of the only things in this world that can break down barriers that societies and cultures put up. Teammates become family, coaches become mentors, and fans become best friends simply because for the love of a team or game. As Christian athletes, we have the unique opportunity to not only break down barriers, but share the love of Christ while doing so.

On this episode, TCU football chaplain Chauncey Franks comes on to discuss this hard-hitting topic and share what he has learned from sharing the gospel to athletes through his work with FCA on TCU's campus. Listen as Chauncey and Ken talk about:

TCU football's success and Chauncey's role in that
How we can look to Jesus to break down any barrier that is put up
How athletes can share God's word in the midst of adversity
Why we can use this topic to glorify God

Overcoming Obstacles with Race Car Driver, Pastor, and Cancer Survivor Don Wickstrum

Ken Burke — Wed, 30 Nov 2022 05:30:00 -0400

Don "Fastest Pastor" Wickstrum joins the show today to talk about how he has overcame countless amounts of obstacles, including a battle with cancer, crashing cars on the side of a mountain, and wrestling with the existence of God.

Throughout Don's life, he has had a desire to conquer one of the most dangerous racing tracks in the world: Pikes Peak Hill Climb. Little did he know that his journey to get to that point was even more crazier than driving 140 mph on the side of dangerous mountain. Listen as Don and Ken discuss how he has been able to not only overcome adversity on the track, but in his life. While going from atheist to pastor and engineer to race car driver, Don has managed to find Christ's peace along the way and show thousands of people how to overcome obstacles that are put in your way.

Don's new documentary, "Chasing Hope" by I Am Second productions, is out NOW to view! Go check it out (and make sure to grab something to wipe your tears).

Hit that subscribe button, give us a rating, and go follow us on social media @competingforchristpodcast!

Say Thank You to Sports

Ken Burke — Wed, 23 Nov 2022 10:00:00 -0400

This time of the year reminds us all to be thankful for what we have around us and what God has provided us. Usually, sports and the chances God gives us in athletics aren't mentioned when going around the Thanksgiving dinner table. This episode invokes these thoughts as you listen and makes you realize some of the things in sports that you can thank God for.

Listen as we discuss what it means to be thankful for sports as a Christian, three main areas that you can thank God for, and what the Bible says about thankfulness, perspective, and love.

Hit that subscribe button, give us a rating, and go follow us on social media @competingforchristpodcast!

Don't Leave God on the Bench! with CEDE Sports COO and Author Bob Schindler

Ken Burke — Wed, 16 Nov 2022 10:59:00 -0400

Do you ever feel like you don't bring God onto the field with you? "Leaving God on the bench" is a concept that many in the Christian athlete setting have wrestled with, simply because it feels like they don't feel like they show God through their play.

Bob Schindler, CEDE Sports Ministries COO and author of Does God Care Who Wins, joins the podcast today to discuss this hard-hitting issue. As Bob played Division 1 and professional golf, Bob struggled with wondering if God cares who wins in the sports we play and the things we are passionate about. This question transpires into conversation between Bob and Ken on:

Leaving God on the bench versus "bringing" God on the field
Why Bob wrote this book
Having a Christian mindset in athletics
The harm of saying "God's on our side!"

Go get the Does God Care Who Wins book now!

Check out CEDE Sports Ministries!

Hit that subscribe button, give us a rating, and go follow us on social media @competingforchristpodcast!

Playing Where Your Feet Are with Former Miami Volleyball Player & Podcast Host Cameron Dobbs

Ken Burke — Wed, 09 Nov 2022 10:00:00 -0400

Athletes across the world struggle to remember how to 'play where their feet are'. It's difficult to constantly appreciate the chances you get and the sports we play, but it's important to never forget that God has put you in a position for a reason. Playing where God has placed you, which includes serving your teammates, showing the Gospel through your play, and getting better day by day, is a priority that all athletes must face when thinking of their sport opportunities.

The Play Where Your Feet Are movement and podcast founder and former Miami Hurricanes volleyball player Cameron Dobbs joins the show today to discuss how she has used this movement to aid athletes across the world. Listen as Cameron and Ken discuss:

What it means to play where your feet are
How she has used injuries and the opportunities that God has given her for His glory
What it was like being a Division 1 volleyball player and now working for her alma mater
The most important advice that she could give to athletes that listen

Go check out the Play Where Your Feet Are Podcast and Blog!

Hit that subscribe button, give us a rating, and go follow us on social media!

Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/competingforchristpodcast/

Twitter Page: https://twitter.com/CFC__podcast

Using a Platform to Glorify God with Sports Spectrum Podcast Host Jason Romano

Ken Burke — Wed, 26 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0400

Jason Romano, former ESPN producer, author, and host of the Sports Spectrum Podcast joins the podcast today to discuss his journey as a Christian working in sports and being a light for Christ. Through the Sports Spectrum Podcast, Jason has been able to reach millions of people and share the gospel to athletes, coaches, and fans across the world. As he has had the chance to speak with coaches, athletes, and sports icons like Tony Dungy, Carson Wentz, and so many more, the work that he does for Christ through podcasting brings sports lovers from all over closer to God.

Listen and learn as Jason and Ken discuss how he felt God calling him away from working at ESPN, encouragement for athletes in being witnesses for Christ on the field/court, and what major problems they see athletes face in sports today.

Make sure to like, subscribe, and leave a rating/review!

Go listen to the Sports Spectrum Podcast!

Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/competingforchristpodcast/

Twitter Page: https://twitter.com/CFC__podcast

Maximize Your Experience as an Athlete with Bruce Nadin - Chaplain of South African Soccer Club Stellenbosch FC

Ken Burke — Wed, 12 Oct 2022 08:30:00 -0400

Each athlete struggles at times with maximizing their time as an athlete. Maximizing the opportunities, lessons, and chances God gives you is a hard thing to do. Most athletes, no matter the age or level, often feel discouraged, troubled, or let down by something or someone in their sport at some point and this is why by age thirteen, seventy percent of athletes quit their sport altogether.

Bruce Nadin is an author, sports pastor, former chaplain of Leicester City Football Club in the UK, and presently the chaplain of South African top flight football club Stellenbosch FC. He has spent the majority of his adult years serving others through the church, and especially through sports.

Bruce joins the podcast today to talk about his life's work of combining his faith and sports. While discussing how God has used him through writing, mentoring, and running a sports chaplaincy, Bruce and Ken go in depth on how athletes can maximize their time in a Christ-centered way. Listen as they discuss three things that can hinder athletes' experiences: making mistakes, comparing yourself to others, and giving up.

Focus on the Next Play with Lubbock Christian University Asst. MBB Coach Landon Hughey

Ken Burke — Wed, 28 Sep 2022 10:00:00 -0400

Focusing on the next play, next pitch, next snap, or next shot is one of the most difficult things to do in all of sports, whether you're a Christian or not. Knowing this, athletes will do whatever it takes to stay locked in while playing, even if it means weird rituals, gimmicks, or lucky charms. Focusing on the next play and not dwelling in the past is never easy, and even the highest level of athletes still struggle with this. So how do we navigate that as athletes AND as Christians?

Landon Hughey, Assistant Men's Basketball Coach at Lubbock Christian University, joins the podcast to discuss this intriguing topic of focusing on the next play. With experiences as a player and now as a coach, his wisdom throughout the episode is made known through his answers to specific questions on this issue. As someone who has coached at every level including the University of Oklahoma, Arizona State University, and more, Coach Hughey offers guidance on how this topic can apply to Christian athletes, how letting go of the past can push an athlete from good to great, and specific examples and quotes from people that used this to help them succeed. Coach Hughey and Ken talk about topics related to this subject, such as WHY athletes continuously focus on the wrong things, how social media has now brought a new problem to this, and how this issue shows Christian athletes where their priorities lie.

Make sure to like, subscribe, and leave a rating/review!

Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/competingforchristpodcast/

Twitter Page: https://twitter.com/CFC__podcast

Check Your Passion and Emotion with Former Georgia Southern Football Player Rashad Byrd

Ken Burke — Wed, 14 Sep 2022 09:30:00 -0400

Have you ever screamed after an error on the field? Slammed your helmet after missing a tackle? Said something to a teammate that you immediately regret? Sports can bring out emotions in all of us that we must be able to keep in check. Passion and emotions are a part of every sport, but it's crucial to not let them harm your teammates, coaches, fans, and especially yourself.

Rashad Byrd, former Georgia Southern football player, guest stars on the podcast today to discuss this hard-hitting topic and explain how he managed his feelings throughout his career. Growing up, Rashad said he was always a competitor, but it wasn't until college that he realized he needed to play for a bigger purpose than himself. Listen as he talks about his experiences as a highly sought after football athlete, how Christian athletes should act while participating in sports, and ways in which we can keep ourselves and others in check while playing the sports we are so deeply passionate about.

Make sure to like, subscribe, and leave a rating/review!

Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/competingforchristpodcast/

Twitter Page: https://twitter.com/CFC__podcast

Women in Christian Athletics Pt. 2 with Ohio State Volleyball Player Chelsea Thorpe

Ken Burke — Wed, 31 Aug 2022 10:30:00 -0400

This episode is the second of a two-part series about how God uses women through athletics. Women play a vital role in glorifying God through participating in athletics. This year in particular, the 50th anniversary of Title IX has made everyone in the United States realize just how far females have come, especially in the sports world. Women sports icons such as Serena Williams, Hope Solo, and Allyson Felix have paved the way for female athletes all across the world to be able to play any sport they'd like.

Ohio State Volleyball player Chelsea Thorpe joins the show for this important topic in the world of Christian athletics. As a freshman at THE Ohio State University, Chelsea speaks on a number of different things, like how she chose to play volleyball at Ohio State, who she plays for on the court, and why she continues to push herself even through failure. While discussing the topic of women in Christian athletics, Chelsea dives deep into what it means to identify with Christ as a woman athlete and why athletes all across the world should play for Him. She also talks about mental health issues that arise in female athletics, the sisterhood of female teams, along with encouragement for younger female athletes that identify with Christ.

Chelsea and Ken discuss how women and men can handle the emotional, physical, and even spiritual struggles that sports can bring up. Throughout the conversation, it is clear that even as a freshman she is already making an impact on the OSU community through her stellar performances on the court and the love of God she shows everyone she comes in contact with.

Make sure to like, subscribe, and leave a rating/review!

Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/competingforchristpodcast/

Twitter Page: https://twitter.com/CFC__podcast

Women in Christian Athletics Pt. 1 with Colorado Christian University Head WBB Coach Diane Thompson

Ken Burke — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 12:00:00 -0400

Women play a vital role in glorifying God through participating in athletics. This year in particular, the 50th anniversary of Title IX has made everyone in the United States realize just how far females have come, especially in the sports world. Women sports icons such as Serena Williams, Hope Solo, and Allyson Felix have paved the way for female athletes all across the world to be able to play any sport they'd like.

Colorado Christian University Head Women's Basketball Coach Diane Thompson comes on the podcast to discuss the importance of women in the Christian athletics context. As she has played basketball at some of the highest levels and coached some of the best young women, her experience and knowledge guide the topic at hand. Throughout the discussion, it is apparent that Coach Thompson not only has a passion for coaching basketball, but so much more! She explains her coaching philosophies, why she calls on her players to serve each other, and why she loves giving back to the community around her.

Listen as Coach Thompson and Ken go in depth on the topic of women in the Christian sport context as they discuss topics like comparing women's sport to men's sport, growing mental health concerns, and even practical advice to Christian women listening that love to play sports! Listen now and share with everyone you know!

Make sure to like, subscribe, and leave a rating/review!

Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/competingforchristpodcast/

Twitter Page: https://twitter.com/CFC__podcast

"Who Am I Without Sports?" with The Christian Coach Podcast Co-Host Chad Simpson

Ken Burke — Wed, 03 Aug 2022 12:00:00 -0400

While playing sports, it can be quite easy to get so wrapped up in them that it becomes your identity. When athletes eat, sleep, even breathe sports, they often forget that eventually, sports are going to end. This can be a difficult pill to swallow.

On this episode, Chad Simpson, Co-Host of The Christian Coach Podcast and Director of Tennis at Athletes in Action, comes on to discuss his experiences in this subject and gives advice on how every athlete can be better prepared for the conclusion of sport participation. Unfortunately, whether it be through injuries, retirement, or even rejection, athletes should be prepared through Christ to get through this.

Chad and Ken also get the chance to talk about The Christian Coach Podcast and how it has affected Chad's walk with Christ. The podcast is a great resource for coaches and serves coaches through conversations so they can lead like Jesus. Go check it out now at: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-christian-coach-podcast/id1536134061

Make sure to like, subscribe, and leave a rating/review!

Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/competingforchristpodcast/

Twitter Page: https://twitter.com/CFC__podcast

Salt and Light In Sports with Former Harlem Globetrotter Melvin Adams

Ken Burke — Wed, 20 Jul 2022 12:00:00 -0400

Matthew 5 discusses how we as Christians must be salt and light in a world full of brokenness and darkness. How do we do that in sports, though? As an athlete, it can be difficult to want to stand out when the entire world is going with the current. But God tells us to go against the current and take the road less travelled.

Melvin Adams, former Harlem Globetrotter now motivational speaker, comes on to discuss this important topic when it comes to sports. His inspiring, motivating, and caring words have touched millions of people throughout the world and his use of comedy and honesty make him so much more personal.

Throughout his basketball career, he consistently lived out what Christ called us to do in this world. While talking with Melvin, it was clear that he replicates Christ in everything that he does, no matter if he's playing pickup basketball, telling jokes with friends, or speaking to thousands of children. Melvin and Ken discuss important questions and issues that arose for Melvin throughout his life/career, and how he has relied on God through it all to guide him. Through personal stories, jokes, and life lessons, this episode is one that will make you laugh while still learning more about how to be a better Christian athlete.

Make sure to like, subscribe, and leave a rating/review!

Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/competingforchristpodcast/

Twitter Page: https://twitter.com/CFC__podcast

Faith First, Academics Second, Athletics Third? with DBU Athletic Director Connor Smith

Ken Burke — Fri, 08 Jul 2022 15:22:00 -0400

Athletes all around the world struggle with managing their time. While competing for Christ, excelling academically, and maintaining a life, athletes must be able to let Christ be in everything they do. But is there a specific order for these things?

Dallas Baptist University Athletic Director Connor Smith comes on the podcast to discuss this balance and what the proper “order” looks like for Christian athletes. His experience as an athlete and as an administrator at DBU offers key insight into how Christian athletes can balance everything that they have going on in their world. He also breaks down DBU's philosophy of athletics and how they practice what they preach to their athletes, recruits, and students.

With athletic experience and leadership skills, Connor Smith brings wisdom to a conversation that so many athletes have thought about: what comes first in my life? God, sports, or grades? We should continuously pursue Christ in everything we do, but how can athletes practically do this? Listen to find out Connor and Ken's conversation on this hard-hitting topic.

Make sure to like, subscribe, and leave a rating/review!

Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/competingforchristpodcast/

Twitter Page: https://twitter.com/CFC__podcast

Recruiting: How Should Christian Athletes Navigate It? with Liberty University Head Women's Soccer Coach Lang Wedemeyer

Ken Burke — Fri, 24 Jun 2022 21:17:00 -0400

Recruiting is not talked about nearly enough as it should in the Christian athlete context. With so many schools to choose from, so many coaches to talk to, and way too many camps to attend, Christian athletes should know how to navigate their way through this process.

Lang Wedemeyer, Head Women's Soccer Coach at Liberty University, has experience at every level with this process. As a strong man of faith and a passion for leading/coaching college women, his words of encouragement and guidance in this episode is something you have to listen to! Coach Wedemeyer and Ken tackle difficult topics that come up in recruiting.

Whether you're getting attention from major Division 1 institutions or trying to find somewhere to continue your athletic and academic career, this episode gives you practical ways to go through the recruiting process as a follower of Christ with confidence. Where you end up attending college matters not just for your playing career, but for your spiritual walk, as well.

Make sure to like, subscribe, and leave a rating/review!

Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/competingforchristpodcast/

Twitter Page: https://twitter.com/CFC__podcast

Competition: Honoring The Lord While Pursuing Success with University of Florida Track Star Nick Deal

Ken Burke — Sat, 21 May 2022 13:45:00 -0400

Competition can show a person's true character. Whether on the field, track, or court, competition can be what drives an athlete to success and can push everyone to do things they never imagined would be possible. In this episode, University of Florida track and cross country runner Nick Deal joins the podcast to discuss this concept of competition and how his experiences as a Gator have helped his faith. While working with Athletes in Action, Nick has been able to grow in his faith at Florida each year, and has become a better athlete because of that.

Nick and Ken dive into what it means to practically 'compete for Christ' and how as Christian athletes, we should always give the glory to God and not ourselves. Competition can be used as a way to do this, but we must have the right mindset and drive. This episode goes into deep conversation about how to do this and how to become freer as we participate in the sports we love.

Make sure to like, subscribe, and leave a rating/review!

Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/competingforchristpodcast/

Twitter Page: https://twitter.com/CFC__podcast

Train Your Mental Game with Psychotherapist Joni Neidigh

Ken Burke — Sat, 23 Apr 2022 22:49:00 -0400

Everyone who plays sports is constantly improving their form, mechanics, strength, agility, speed, but pushing yourself mentally can help you perform better on the field and as a teammate. In this episode, Psychotherapist and certified Clinical Hypnotherapist and Trainer Joni Neidigh comes on to discuss why Christian Athletes should be motivated to train their mental game just as much as their physical game. Throughout her time working with athletes, she has let God guide her and speak through her in order to help everyone she comes in contact with. Joni and Ken discuss how she started on this journey, tips for athletes that need mental skills training, and how athletes can better their game simply by shifting their perspectives.

Make sure to like, subscribe, and leave a rating/review!

Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/competingforchristpodcast/

Twitter Page: https://twitter.com/CFC__podcast

Does God Really Care About Sports? with Former NFL Running Back Josh Vaughan

Ken Burke — Fri, 01 Apr 2022 13:07:00 -0400

Does God really care about sports? This question has been debated for generations now, and even though we will never know God's "thoughts", we do know what His Word tells us. In this episode, Josh Vaughan, former NFL running back for a number of teams including the Carolina Panthers, San Fransisco 49ers, and Atlanta Falcons, comes on to discuss this question. Josh experienced many challenges and trials throughout his career as an athlete, and as he explains in the episode, he owes it all to God for giving him each opportunity. As he is now the team chaplain for the Atlanta Falcons, he gives great insight into what it means to identify with Christ not only in sports, but in the professional setting. Josh and Ken also discuss how we as Christians can view sports, if God even cares who wins and who loses, and what his time in the NFL and in college taught him about being a Christian athlete.

Make sure to like, subscribe, and leave a rating/review!

Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/competingforchristpodcast/

Twitter Page: https://twitter.com/CFC__podcast

Global Sports Ministry with FCA Indonesia 330 Sports Community

Ken Burke — Fri, 18 Mar 2022 18:47:00 -0400

Throughout the world, people are using sports in order to spread the Gospel. Every athlete may not want to talk about the Gospel or be interested in learning about Jesus, but every athlete does want to talk about sports. Bringing athletes in, showing them that sports and a relationship with Christ can coincide, and building that trust in order to spread the Gospel is crucial in the world of Christian athletics. In Manado City, North Sulawesi, Indonesia, Tias Korah and Andre Mandey have heard this call and are serving their local community by giving athletes a space to safely participate in sports while learning about Christ. Throughout the conversation, Ken, Ties, and Andre discuss their ministry work that they call 330 Sports Community (John 3:30), their experiences in athletics, and how God is using them while living in Indonesia.

330 Sports Community Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/330sportscommunity/

Make sure to like, subscribe, and leave a rating/review!

Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/competingforchristpodcast/

Twitter Page: https://twitter.com/CFC__podcast