Pastor Ben Houston shares his raw, personal journey through the ministry burnout that led to a physical and mental crash. He details the radical step he took: running a 100-mile ultramarathon to raise $100K for charity, and how that challenge became the unlikely path to his holistic health and the creation of Project Analog.

This powerful conversation reveals the necessity of finding presence, purpose, and genuine rest in a digital world, covering:

• 0:01:52 The spiritual and physical toll of extreme burnout.
• 0:31:00 How mental stress physically manifested as a debilitating injury.
• 0:21:25 The purpose and mission behind the 100-mile run for addiction rehab.
• 0:48:10 Mobilizing a growing global movement to "Baptize the World."

Listen to the full story to understand why prioritizing analog over digital is the key to sustainable, lifelong health and mission.

I Built a Brewery and Felt More Miserable Than Ever | Ben Cook, Hangar 24 Founder

What happens when you achieve everything the world tells you to want—a successful, multi-million dollar business, an adventure lifestyle, and a great family—but you find yourself more miserable than ever before?

In this deep, raw conversation in the wild, Ben Cook, the founder of Hangar 24 Brewery, sits down to share his journey from chasing the "American Dream" to a total surrender of his life and business to Christ.

This is not a business interview; it’s a story about the ultimate adventure: discovering what true purpose and peace look like when you step off the path of worldly success and commit to radical, uncompromising faith.

Key Topics & Timestamps:

• 0:00 - The Pressure to Achieve and the Illusion of the American Dream
• 4:40 - The Moment of Crisis: Miserable with "Everything"
• 9:00 - The Call to Surrender and Radical Faith
• 15:30 - Balancing Entrepreneurship, Adventure, and Christian Commitment
• 22:15 - Hangar 24: How Faith Changed the Business
• 30:00 - Finding Peace and Clarity in the Wilderness
• 45:00 - Why the Church Matters for Creative Leaders
• 55:30 - Ben's Most Important Advice for Entrepreneurs and Parents

Subscribe to Maverick River Collective for more deep conversations on faith and life's wild journey.

#BenCook #Hangar24 #ChristianTestimony #FaithAndBusiness #Entrepreneurship #MaverickRiverCollective

Can a cold-case homicide detective approach the story of Jesus like an unsolved murder? J. Warner Wallace, an ex-atheist who used his forensic investigation skills to vet the Gospels, shares his compelling journey and evidence for the Christian faith.In this deep-dive episode of the Maverick River Podcast, J. Warner Wallace walks us through the shocking evidence he uncovered by applying his detective skillset to the New Testament. From the "mortis triad" to the logic of miracles, discover the cumulative circumstantial case that convinced him to become a follower of Christ. Learn why your identity matters more than your accomplishments, and how to surrender your life to the "Toolmaker."

https://maverickriver.com/

John Simons (PhD candidate in Ethics & Public Theology at Southern Seminary) is the Men's Pastor of Rolling Hills Community Church. He received his B.A. in Political Science from California Baptist University, as well as a M.A. in Philosophy, and a M.Div from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University. He also served as a Small Groups & Men’s Community Pastor in Southern California. John and his family live in Franklin, TN.

Check out John Simon's book: The Man you were meant to be.

https://www.bhpublishinggroup.com/product/the-man-you-re-meant-to-be-2/

In this episode of the Maverick River Podcast, Tim Lukei sits down with George and Tondra Gregory, authors of The Marriage Game Plan and passionate marriage coaches who have helped thousands of couples strengthen their relationships.

With over 25 years of experience, the Gregorys share powerful insights on what it takes to win in marriage. From everyday communication strategies to handling high-pressure seasons, this conversation is filled with practical wisdom, grace, and encouragement for every couple—whether you're newlyweds or decades in.

George and Tondra currently serve as the official chaplains of the Los Angeles Chargers and previously led the marriage ministry at Saddleback Church. Their heart for helping couples thrive is evident, and this episode is one you don’t want to miss.

Join us as Joel Klatt shares his powerful story—from college athlete to one of football’s most recognized voices. He opens up about battling alcoholism, rediscovering faith, and learning to lead with integrity in broadcasting, family life, and beyond.

You’ll hear about:

• Joel’s shift from real estate to sports broadcasting

• How sobriety and faith reshaped his identity

• Balancing career and fatherhood

• Why community and accountability matter

Plus: a few “Would You Rather” questions and Joel’s favorite family meal.

Don’t miss this one—honest, hopeful, and deeply real.

Listen now and experience real conversations in the wild:
Apple Podcasts | Spotify

Faith, Fitness & Surrender with Matt from ARK Fit | Maverick River Podcast

Join Tim on the Maverick River Podcast as he hosts Matt Huffman from ARK Fit, a gym uniquely driven by faith and community. Dive into Matt's powerful journey of faith, entrepreneurship, and the incredible story behind ARK Fit. Discover how Matt integrates spirituality into fitness, the challenges of expanding a business, and the relentless pursuit of God's will in every aspect of life. Whether you're looking for inspiration in your faith journey or practical tips for a healthier lifestyle, this episode is for you. Tune in and be inspired to surrender, grow, and succeed in all walks of life.

🎧 Listen now and experience real conversations in the wild:
Apple Podcasts | Spotify

• How ARK Fit began with a step of faith

• Surrendering idols and walking in obedience

• Physical health as a tool for spiritual impact

• Biblical principles behind fitness and discipline

• Pruning seasons that produce spiritual fruit

• Identity in Christ vs. identity in achievement

• Tips for men starting their fitness journey

• Creating a gym that reflects the heart of Jesus

🌐 ARK Fit Gym – Orange County (Update with correct URL if needed)
📍 Located in Orange County, CA
☕ Abide Coffee – Coming soon inside ARK Fit
📸 Follow ARK Fit on Instagram

Share this episode with a friend, your men’s group, or someone ready to align their body, mind, and soul with God’s purpose.
👍 Like, 💬 Comment, and 🔁 Repost to spread the mission.

#ARKFit #FaithAndFitness #ChristianMen #MensMinistry #FitnessTestimony #IdentityInChrist #SurrenderAndObedience #BiblicalFitness #MaverickRiverPodcast #BodyAsATemple #ChristianEntrepreneur #SpiritualDiscipline #KingdomFitness #ChristianPodcast