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Welcome to the Run Eat Drink Podcast! This is the podcast where we embark on exciting adventures, combining our love for running, delicious food, and tasty beverages. Whether you’re an elite runner aiming for victory or just starting your “Couch to 5K” journey, we’ve got something for you. Let’s dive into the three pillars of our show: Accomplish (Run): Accomplishment is deeply personal. Are you eyeing a race series win, planning your next “run-cation,” or hoping to set a personal record in ...
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The Last Service Podcast

The Last Service Podcast

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The Last Service Podcast explores the narratives of American churches that have closed, consolidated, or merged. But this isn’t a tale of despair; it’s a celebration of good endings, enduring legacies, and the courage to embrace new beginnings. American churches are closing at a pace faster than new ones are emerging, the need for thoughtful conversations around closures is more crucial than ever. By shedding light on the paths taken by these congregations, we aim to inspire and encourage ch ...
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Send us a text RED Episode 308 Ergotrail Founder Daisy Myburgh If you want a shout out for you or someone else you love on the show, email us at [email protected] or call us and leave a message at 941-677-2733 Ergotrail Founder Daisy Myburgh This week, we talk with Daisy Myburgh, founder and creator of Ergotrail Soft Flask. This product is great…
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Send us a text If you want a shout out for you or someone else you love on the show, email us at [email protected] or call us and leave a message at 941-677-2733 Happy birthday month, JoJo! Happy birthday, Susie! Happy birthday, Dawn! Join us as we honor Aimee’s dad at the 20th Anniversary Miles for Moffitt Race in November 2025! Join our team, …
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Send us a text RED Episode 306 Show Notes. Michael Leslie’s Chicago and NYC Marathon Double in 2024 If you want a shout out for you or someone else you love on the show, email us at [email protected] or call us and leave a message at 941-677-2733 Happy birthday month, JoJo! Happy birthday, Susie! Happy birthday, Dawn! Join us as we honor Aimee’s…
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Send us a text RED Episode 305 Siesta Key Daycation to Remember SHOUT-OUTS Congratulations to everyone who participated in the Springtime Surprise races! We saw the Will Run For Crew, Sherry aka @runsinaskirt, Kelli Bickering @wanderlustandpretzeldust, Jen Kim, and many other fantastic faces, including Jeff Galloway. We had major FOMO and hope to r…
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In this insightful and heartfelt episode, Matt welcomes campus minister and author Casey Coston to discuss the challenges and beauty of a life spent in ministry. With over two decades of experience—from Ole Miss to the University of Delaware—Casey shares the inspiration behind his book Made Competent, and opens up about the trials of leadership, ch…
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Send us a text SHOUTOUTS Congratulations to Jessica Lynn O’Keefe, Eric Million, and his daughter Brooklyn on completing the Donut Dash to benefit the Cape Coral Police Department’s Police Athletic League. If you want a shout-out for you or someone else you love on the show, email us at [email protected] or call us and leave a message at 941-677-…
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Send us a text We flash back to Episode 157 when the Will Run For Podcast Crew appeared on our show for the first time. We hope, in a small way, we honor the memory of our fellow podcaster, Erin, whom we lost all too soon. We will miss you, Erin. Please consider donating in her honor to these causes: Unite 4 Her https://uniteforher.org/ Animal Welf…
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Send us a text Jessie and Eric join the podcast to share part 2 of their experience at the Big Beach Marathon weekend in Gulf Shores, Alabama. They completed the challenge, one as a long-time runner and the other as a first-time half-marathoner. Big Beach Marathon Weekend Links Eric and Jessie referenced our pre-race weekend breakdown in RED Episod…
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Send us a text Jessie and Eric join the podcast to share their experience at the Big Beach Marathon weekend in Gulf Shores, Alabama. They completed the challenge, one as a long-time runner and the other as a first-time half-marathoner. Big Beach Marathon Weekend Links Eric and Jessie referenced our pre-race weekend breakdown in RED Episode 293 with…
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In this powerful episode of The Last Service Podcast, Matt sits down with Bruce Deel, CEO of City of Refuge, to explore an extraordinary story of transformation. Originally tasked with closing Mission Church at 14th Street, Bruce found himself in the midst of a divine calling to revitalize the church into a thriving ministry center. Discover how co…
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Send us a text This episode reflects on personal loss and the power of community. As we reconnect with our listeners, we emphasize the important role of running in navigating grief and honoring loved ones. • Desire to return to the podcast after bereavement • Reflection on memories of loved ones and running friends • Importance of community support…
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In this episode of The Last Service Podcast, author and speaker Michelle Van Loon discusses the realities of church closures, the challenges of leadership, and how congregations can embrace endings with faith and wisdom. Michelle shares insights from her Plough article "A Good Death for Dying Churches" and her personal experiences with church trans…
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In this episode of the Last Service Podcast, Matt welcomes Sam Rainer, pastor, church consultant, and president of Church Answers, for a candid discussion about the state of the American church. Together, they explore the challenges facing congregations today, from declining membership to generational shifts in engagement. Sam shares actionable ins…
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Send us a text Due to a serious family medical emergency, we must postpone episodes, runcations, bonus content, and live chats indefinitely. We appreciate all your support in the past and will look ahead to brighter days and a time when we can all accomplish, explore, and indulge again together. Take care, Runcation Nation. We'll see you again. Sup…
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Send us a text RED Episode 300 SHOW NOTES SHOUT OUTS If you want a shoutout on the show for you or someone you love, email us at [email protected] or call us at 941-677-2733 and leave a message. Thank you to EVERYONE in the Runcation Nation. We could not have made it to 300 episodes without your support, encouragement, and listening to us banter…
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🎙️ Episode Highlights In this special recap episode, host [Matt] reflects on the journey through Season 1 of The Last Service Podcast. Joined by his wife, Maureen, they dive into the heart of the podcast’s mission—exploring church closures, transitions, and the faithful endings that can lead to new beginnings. ✨ Key Topics Covered: Season Favorites…
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Send us a text RED Episode 299 Run, Eat, and Drink for Moffitt Cancer Center at Miles for Moffitt SHOUT OUTS If you want a shoutout on the show for you or someone you love, email us at [email protected] or call us at 941-677-2733 and leave a message. Shout out to Janine, Big Ed, and Joe in New York, who gave us stellar recommendations for this e…
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In this powerful season finale, Matt sits down with the legendary religion news reporter and author Bob Smietana to explore the pressing realities facing churches today. From demographic shifts to the challenges of revitalization, Bob shares insights from his acclaimed book, Reorganized Religion, and personal experiences with church closures. This …
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Send us a text SHOUT OUTS Congratulations to Erin from the Pace Yourself… It’s Just Cancer and Will Run For Podcast on completing the New York City Marathon for Fred’s Team and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Shout out to Michael Leslie for getting the Chicago Marathon under his belt and completing the New York City Marathon. So he has seve…
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In this episode of The Last Service Podcast, Matt dives into a conversation with Reverend Dr. Katie Nix and Reverend Dr. Phil Blackwell, pastors who led two congregations through a unique journey of merger and renewal. They share the incredible challenges and blessings of bringing together two legacy churches into a unified, mission-focused communi…
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Send us a text RED Episode 297 Run, Eat, and Drink Like a “New Yawker” SHOUT OUTS If you want a shoutout on the show for you or someone you love, email us at [email protected] or call us at 941-677-2733 and leave a message. Shout out to Janine, Big Ed, and Joe in New York, who gave us stellar recommendations for this episode. Congratulations to …
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Send us a text RED Episode 296 Featuring the Hosts of Pace Yourself... It’s Just Cancer SHOUT OUTS If you want a shoutout on the show for you or someone you love, email us at [email protected] or call us at 941-677-2733 and leave a message. We have to mention it again because we are so grateful… Huge shout out to Greg and Jovanna, owners of Nice…
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In this episode of The Last Service Podcast, we dive into the profound journey of pastoral transitions with Matt Davis, host of the Life After Ministry Podcast. Matt shares his personal experiences of stepping away from ministry after a moral failure and navigating life outside the church. This episode explores the emotional and logistical challeng…
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Send us a text RUN It’s a rewind episode to International Podcast Day, or it was before all the hurricanes, so we have to play catch up with you! We discuss some favorites, including: The Fitzness Show https://www.fitzness.com/blog/the-fitzness-show-podcast/ Pace Yourself…It’s Just Cancer https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/paceyourselfitsjustc…
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In this powerful episode of The Last Service Podcast, Matt continues his conversation with Reverend Lorrin Radzik as they explore the complexities of church closures. Lorrin shares her personal journey of closing multiple churches and the unique challenges faced when congregations are forced to confront their own mortality. Together, they dive into…
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In this raw and insightful episode, Matt sits down with Rev. Lorrin Radzik, a United Methodist pastor with a powerful story of navigating the complexities of ministry, church closure, and personal growth. Lorrin shares her experience leading a struggling congregation in Wisconsin, where she guided the church through the challenging decision to clos…
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Send us a text RED Episode 294 Disneyland Inaugural Half Marathon Weekend Races with Emily O’Keefe SHOUT OUTS If you want a shoutout on the show for you or someone you love, email us at [email protected] or call us at 941-677-2733 and leave a message. Thanks to all our patrons and everyone in the Runcation Nation for your support and encourageme…
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Send us a text RED Episode 293 Featuring A Runcation Destination The Big Beach Marathon in Gulf Shores, Alabama SHOUT OUTS If you want a shoutout on the show for you or someone you love, email us at [email protected] or call us at 941-677-2733 and leave a message. Thanks to all our patrons and everyone in the Runcation Nation for your support an…
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In this compelling episode of The Last Service Podcast, host Matt interviews Dave Meserve, an experienced transitional pastor who has guided multiple churches through the difficult process of closing. Dave shares powerful stories and invaluable insights on how to approach church closures with compassion, wisdom, and a focus on spiritual health. Key…
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Send us a text RED Episode 292 Ask Us Anything Part 2 and Bonus Boston Bites and Brews SHOUT OUTS If you want a shoutout on the show for you or someone you love, email us at [email protected] or call us at 941-677-2733 and leave a message. Thanks to all our patrons and everyone in the Runcation Nation for your support and encouragement. Because …
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In this episode, host Matt interviews Gail Cafferata, author of "The Last Pastor" and a retired Episcopal priest who closed a church. Gail shares her personal experience closing a congregation and insights from her research surveying over 100 pastors who have gone through church closures. Key topics discussed: - Gail's background as a medical socio…
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Send us a text RED Episode 291 Ask Us Anything: Running Edition SHOUT OUTS If you want a shoutout on the show for you or someone you love, email us at [email protected] or call us at 941-677-2733 and leave a message. Thanks to all our patrons and everyone in the Runcation Nation for your support and encouragement. Because of you, we have kept th…
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In this episode, we sit down with Mike Sares, director of Urban Skye, to discuss their unique approach to ministry outside traditional church structures. Mike shares insights from his extensive experience, including pastoring Scum of the Earth Church and working with various faith entrepreneurs. Key points covered: • Urban Skye acts as an umbrella …
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In this episode of The Last Service Podcast, host Matt interviews Bart McDonald from the Southern Baptist of Texas Foundation about their innovative Jubilee Program. This program helps struggling churches preserve their assets and legacy while transitioning to new ministries or congregations. Key Points: The Jubilee Program is based on biblical pri…
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In this episode of The Last Service Podcast, host Matt McGee interviews Dr. Myles Werntz, Associate Professor of Theology at Abilene Christian University. They discuss the concept of scarcity in churches and how it's affecting congregations across denominations. Dr. Werntz shares insights from his recent Christianity Today article "Scarcity's Stran…
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Send us a text SHOUT OUTS If you want a shoutout on the show for you or someone you love, email us at [email protected] or call us at 941-677-2733 and leave a message. Congratulations to Dawn, of @dawnbjoyful in on Instagram, and everyone else who finished the Sparkle Athletic #streakingwiththecoolkids challenge of a mile a day throughout the mo…
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In this episode of The Last Service Podcast, host Matt interviews Dr. Stanley Granberg, founder of Heritage 21, an organization dedicated to helping declining churches make critical decisions about their future. Dr. Granberg shares his extensive experience in church planting, missions, and organizational leadership, offering valuable insights into …
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Send us a text SHOUT OUTS If you want a shoutout on the show for you or someone you love, email us at [email protected] or call us at 941-677-2733 and leave a message. Thanks to all our patrons and everyone in the Runcation Nation for your support and encouragement. Because of you, we have kept the show going over the last two years, so thank yo…
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In this special "Potluck" episode of The Last Service Podcast, host Matt McGee catches up with his old friend, Dr. Jim Trammell, Associate Professor of Communication at High Point University, a frequent contributor to Baptist News Global, and deacon at Emerywood Baptist Church, to discuss the evolving role of media in modern church worship. They ex…
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Send us a text RED Episode 288 Runcation Recap with Michael: The London Marathon Part 2, Race Day! SHOUT OUTS If you want a shoutout on the show for you or someone you love, email us at [email protected] or call us at 941-677-2733 and leave a message. Thanks to all our patrons and everyone in the Runcation Nation for your support and encourageme…
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Send us a text SHOUT OUTS If you want a shoutout on the show for you or someone you love, email us at [email protected] or call us at 941-677-2733 and leave a message. Thanks to all our patrons and everyone in the Runcation Nation for your support and encouragement. Because of you, we have kept the show going over the last two years, so thank yo…
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Discover how the Dinner Church Collective is revitalizing the way we experience church and reach the unchurched. In this thought-provoking episode, Verlon Fosner shares his journey of transforming a dying church into a vibrant community centered around the simple act of gathering for a meal and engaging with the stories of Jesus. Learn about the so…
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Send us a text SHOUT OUTS If you want a shoutout on the show for you or someone you love, email us at [email protected] or call us and leave a message at 941-677-2733. Thanks to all our patrons and everyone in the Runcation Nation for your support and encouragement. Because of you, we have kept the show going over the last two years, so thank yo…
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Karl Vaters joins The Last Service Podcast to discuss the unique challenges and opportunities facing small churches. With over 40 years of pastoral experience and as the author of several books on small church ministry, Karl provides valuable insights to help small congregations thrive. Key Topics: - Defining what constitutes a "small church" - The…
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Send us a text Tania (@this_phoenix_runs on Instagram). gave us a fantastic episode about the MCM weekend. She’s back for a bonus discussion that we wanted to share this week from the time when we stopped recording, but there was so much more to share! The Penguin Award at Marine Corps Marathon It’s in honor of Maj. Megan McClung (KIA 2006)— it sym…
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Send us a text SHOUT OUTS If you want a shoutout for you or someone you love on the show, email us at [email protected] or give us a call and leave a message at 941-677-2733. Thanks to all our patrons and everyone in the Runcation Nation for your support and encouragement. Because of you, we have kept the show going over the last two years, so t…
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In this insightful episode, Matt talks with Erika Cole, known as the Church Attorney, about navigating the legal process of church closures and mergers. Erika provides a wealth of knowledge on checklist items, vital documents, legal steps, and wisdom for churches going through this transition. As churches across America continue to close at an alar…
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Send us a text SHOUT OUTS If you want a shoutout for you or someone you love on the show, email us at [email protected] or give us a call and leave a message at 941-677-2733. Thanks to all our patrons and everyone in the Runcation Nation for your support and encouragement. Because of you, we have kept the show going over the last two years, so t…
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Send us a text Patrons, we will have a bonus episode on Patreon and Buy Me a Coffee, as Cheryl spent an extra hour with us! She shared her expertise on trail races and more! Thanks for your support, patrons! Find bonus content here: https://www.patreon.com/Runeatdrinkpodcast https://buymeacoffee.com/runeatdrinkpod This episode is dedicated to Chery…
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In this episode, Matt is joined by Rev. Diane Kenaston, co-founder of The Good Friday Collaborative. They discuss how churches can approach the difficult process of closing, merging, or consolidating ministries faithfully and pastorally. Diane shares her own experience leading a church through a merger and the valuable lessons learned. She also unp…
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